SistahCraft

Knits And News

And The Knits Just Keep On Coming

(The Purple Haze Tweed; All pics enlarge)

Occasionally, I like to make my own tweed combinations. For me it's like painting, combining different yarns in order to achieve an amalgam of luminosity, texture, and color. It also uses up some of my machine knitting yarn stash––that I have pounds of.

The sweater Lola's wearing, is made up of one end of 2/32 Linea PIU mohair (the haze) and the remainder: 2 ends of 2/18  wool/silk, 1 end of 2/24 wool/alpaca and 1 end of 2/18 merino, from my all time favorite supplier,   JaggerSpun! Here's a huge shout out to Chuck! The tweed effect, was made using the amazing accessory shown.

The Daruma Yarn Twister, has been around since the eighties (in my memory). I don't t know when the company ceased to make this gadget, but it was a damn shame, that they did. The twister allows for the the threads or yarns to wrap around each other evenly; you don't get "runs" of one color or another, as when you either knit or crochet, slipping the strands through your fingers. And the twist doesn't bias when worked. Valerie, I'll have the full instructions for assembly and use under the Project Working Notes in the sidebar tomorrow.

I've put up the first part of the blocking tutorial in the sidebar  for Twist, speaking on the why and what of blocking; The how is next. Stay tuned.

Big Up Time

My sistahfriend Trina Michelle Robinson, knits together phenomenal occurrences throughout the African Diaspora and presents them on her blog The Passage Project. It's my go to for an aggregation of awareness and consciousness lifting news and events; check it out. It'll become yours.

It Hasn't Unraveled Me

Yes, I'm finally on Ravelry! Now I can see what all the fun is about. I very excited to be a part of this sub-universe, and maybe that's what's motivating me towards completion. I can't wait until I'm finished with the spring publishing cycle at work, and I get some time off; then I'll time to revel!

Growing Pains––The Autumn of The Matriarch

"Growth Is The Only Evidence Of Life" –– Apologia pro Rita Sua (1864); John Henry, Cardinal Newman

(Leaf photo taken in Rhinebeck, NY; all pics enlarge)

Hey there,

I'm returning after taking some time off. Many thanks my sistahfriends up at the Festival on Saturday, for letting me know they cared, and for shaming me into coming back.

But honestly? Between the mental input required at work, to assist in putting out an entire magazine every two weeks or so, and the input needed to live a full and balanced life––blogging became a highway pile-up of events, projects, and life that I could no longer sort out fast enough to post in real time; hence, all lanes were closed, until the traffic could be cleared.

Besides––the thought of staring at another computer screen for 2 hours or more to blog and read blogs (especially coming home late), wasn't a pleasant one, considering the other people, places, and projects competing for my attention. And I've never been good at keeping a journal––essentially what a blog is. Two-and-half years was enough. I have given up on the diary format, making some adjustments to the portal, this blog was originally designed to be.

I'm adding pages to filter all of the happenings coming in. Categories like announcements, book reviews, and people, will have their own page for you to check at your leisure. My main posts will consist of issues that are compelling, tutorial, or covering a major event (such as the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, this past weekend). Now, I can exhale. When our fall cycle at work finishes up in about 2 weeks or so, I will devote a good chunk of my time to the portal––gosh, there's so much good news to share, like an interview with a copiously creative artist, in a new mag hitting the shops this December!

As for Rhinebeck, I'm sorting out the photos and compiling my notes; folks, this year was a doozy! Revelers are probably still traveling back as we speak; I'll get to you post haste!

We Are Fam-i-ly…The Second Annual Sistahfriends Harlem Knitta'-Que

…I Got All My Sistahs With Me!

(And these were just the folks in the frame; all pics enlarge).

WHOOOWEE! The Second Annual Sistahfriends Harlem Knitta'-Que was a resounding success! Given by myself (which is part of why I haven't posted), and my girl Chante´of Harlem Purls, we turned a small patch of St. Nicholas Park into the place to be, for a coupla' hours of folks, food, fun and fiber.

The Family

I'm delighted to say––all of our sistahfriends turned it out! Everyone who RSVP'd came and then some, bringing their wonderful spirit, guests, and some fabulous food. Necia, we missed you (but I hope you had an equally fabulous time). Veronica, you were asked for; Saun, we were there till dark––next year, we're gonna have torch-lights, so you can join us after work!

My New Peeps

 I was particularly excited to finally meet Iris ("Who you takin' a picture of?") of Unfurnished Brooklyn fame (yes Iris, you're famous); blessings to you for making the hike and bringing the corn.

Visiting from Toronto, Canada, was Sharon, whose blog is Scheherazaade. In addition to possessing a copious sense of humor and a sharp wit, she brought marinated veggies that we didn't need to be reminded to eat.

From left; my acquaintance Trina, Vivian, Sharon's friend in NY, and Sharon.

The Food

It was a soulful feast that we chowed down on, between stitches, rows, and treadling. Ready? In addition to what I already mentioned, there was: curried salmon, Jamaican mini-chicken and mini-beef patties, peas and rice Trinidadian style, a macaroni and cheese dish that woulda' made my mom return from the grave to eat, pasta salad, shrimp salad, tomato and cucumber salad, fruit salad, corn, and the prerequisite burgers, veggie burgers, ribs and chicken (I'm glad I made enough). For the vegetarians, we kept it respectful, using a separate grill. Dessert was cheesecake, carrot cake and fruit. There was plenty to eat and plenty to take home––one of the things, a  good BBQ is about.

Reader Appreciation Post

For You, From Me

(Floribunda "Sexy Rexy"; The Regents Park, London. All pics enlarge)

I gotta take a minute to say a few things, for there are things that one should never be too busy to say.  First, I want to thank all of you for the compliments on my new About photo. I've changed since starting this blog in '05' and I wanted to reflect that. I have taken extensive working notes on the jacket and will soon put them up in the sidebar, if you would like to knit one.

It's Not Personal

I'm sorry if anyone misunderstood what I said about putting down your needles and hooks, and the perception of knitters in my last post. It was meant for NY'ers who, when hearing the words independent film, show the kind of attitude that they would not tolerate for the word craft, and hence, do not support it. While needlework has come a long way in heightening its regard among the populace, there are other stereotypes that remain intractable, perpetuating an emotionally negative impact upon its victims. Entertainment media is fine, but it is important to support films which provide the awareness to raise one's consciousness and compassion. If you do not live in New York, Joy's film will be shown on public television, and I will let y'all know the date.

A Few Shout Outs

I have some new subscribers I want to holla' at. Those of you who aren't public, I'm waving at ya.' Of those who are––hey Nikki of GorgeousKnits, I hope business is good, and let's get together when I hop back over the pond. To Olgajazzy of Knit Creations of A Curious Mind––your blog is phat, and your Habu lanterns even phatter! Hello to Sherri of Adventures of A Stashaholic, how's your top coming along? If you have any balls left you can break your 'holism, by sending them to me, hee, hee! For the rest of my subscribers I say ha-a-a-y, and I'ma check you out, a couple a day. And lurkers, love to you all too!

Down, But Not Out

(Rosa "Atlantic Star")

If some of y'all don't see your names under Much Respect––I'm not dissing you. You haven't posted in a long time, and it's okay; you're saved in my bookmark file. There's many cool folks out there, and I want to keep up with their doings, but I'm still checking you––so come back sometime, as I do get concerned, or email me and let me know you're okay, or what's up. Your blog may be virtual, but you're not––to me.

I.O.U's

Before I jet off to knit––I know I owe patterns, and other stuff. I'm finishing a boutique commitment and I've set aside a week, now that Mr. K won't be putting the snatch on me again, for a while. I don' t have test knitters, so I have to extremely careful to be accurate, especially with sizing, and that takes non-distracted time. So don't worry, I haven't forgot!

The next post will start my London adventure, featuring a sista' who came on through, then a yarn report on the little big shop in Vauxhall––I Knit, London. Kisses to you Gerard, Craig, Sue and Anna. I was too sick with a cold for a bath in Bath last Saturday, and stayed in bed. Feh. Next time.

When Dates Collide––More Announcements!

Take Time…

(This smelled so good, it was worth the work! It may be "Veterans Honor." I'm new at this, so please correct me, if I'm wrong. All pics enlarge).

It's a shame when it takes a darn chest cold to sideline me, from attending all of the goings on of my creative friends. On the upside, it should keep me still enough to get some knitting, er, completion in, but my brain's too fuzzy, and my legs too itchy for that right now––the result of cold medicine and bug bites from working on the roses I saved from neglect, at the building next door.

But even though I'm flat on my booty, I hope the upcoming announcements will have y'all who are either in, or traveling to NYC––to get yours to them. Enjoy, (and if you touch your screen, wash your hands––my cold is that bad).

Find Your Way

The Harlem Girl's Quilting Circle presents––Stitching Our Stories: Quilt Art by Our Community’s Children. It's taking place at the Countee Cullen Branch Library, 104 West 136th Street, New York City. The Artists Reception is now, from 4:00PM to 7:00PM (darn, cough); the exhibition will run until August 27. For info and group visits, contact the library; 212 - 491 - 2070. Curated by my sistahs-in-quilt, Michelle Bishop and Laura R. Gadson, this wonderful project is led by Laura R. Gadson, Robyn Mahone-Lonesome, and Valerie Deas. The works are by the fabulous students from:  The Mahalia Jackson School, PS 123, The Adam Clayton Powell School, IS 172, and The Richard Rodgers School, PS 96. The former schools in Manhattan and the latter, in my borough, the Bronx. Represent!     

Run Away To This!

Knitters, please don't work late, 'cause tomorrow, June 21st, from 6-8p.m. at Knitty City, 208 West 79th St. near Amsterdam Ave. in Manhattan, my acquaintance and inspiration, Berta Karapetyan, the author of Runway Knits: 30 Fashion-Forward Designs and her top-flight sales rep, Diana, will be in the house to answer any questions about her new book, the techniques she used in creating her designs (which I'll be really sorry to miss, cough), fashion styling and, of course, her yarns. If you haven't read my review on her book, just scroll down.

Karabella yarns are well-known for their quality. In addition, if you wish to special order the yarns for some of the styles in the show, provisions will be made just for you! Now, if you are still not quite convinced, some of her creations are on display in the window.

Rambo Trots Down The Road!

My final news, before I go lie down, is for all you sheep lovers world-wide. It was heard before, to the response of "yeah, right." Back in January, when I visited the Big Merino, in Goulburn, Australia, I was told it was going to be moved down the road (to catch up, you can read my post about this eighth wonder of the world). Well doggonit, it happened! This just in from my friend, artist Joan Ross. Check these links out, for a real eyebrow raiser!!!

The Story, and The Pictures.

Ailing In The Apple––I've Returned, And There's News!

There's No Place Like Their Home

(Check Della, enjoying the AC. As I have a bad cold, ya' think she'd be nice enough to post for me. Felix (the cat), was chagrined, so he hid––feh. All pics enlarge)

Hey there! (cough, sniff)

I've returned from London, with two souvenirs: an ashtray for my close friend and star mixologist, the über-cool Sharon "Boi" Jackson, and a nasty cold from the menopausal weather they call summer. And yes, I did buy some yarn––many thanks to all you enablers that  commented, particularly Chris, who got there first; thank the ancestors, a weak dollar, gave me the strength to say no (after the first purchase). I also took in a good part of the city, while Mr. K––who humorously now refers to himself as the low-rent mogul––was back to back in business meetings.

Back in the city that never slept, the announcements kept coming in, so my adventures will have to wait. Folks, here's the latest and the greatest…

Bringing Joy To The Big Screen

(Not yellow, but golden––like the color of honey; a photo of Joy D.––you GO, sistah).

After a coupla years of hard work, and a lot of support, my co-worker Joy Dietrich finally released her film––and it won a Jury Award for Best Director at  CineVegas! Tie A Yellow Ribbon parts the blinds for a glimpse into the world of young Asian-American women, in particular, a troubled Korean adoptee. 

Her movie, which she co-produced with Jed Films, will have its New York premier at the 10th annual Urbanworld/Vibe Film Festival, this Saturday June 23, and at the 30th annual Asian American International Film Festival, on Friday, July 27th. Do go to the Jed Film's site for a look at the slammin' trailer, and information about the production.

Now, I'm not gonna rant, but hey––put down your needles and hooks, and get out to either––or both––of these venues, so that your brain can get some real refreshment. You know why? Because there are stereotypes more important to counteract, than merely the perception of knitters––trust me.

Finish Up, The Distraction, Is Starting!

I Love New York In Spring! How 'Bout You?

(the window of the Sanrio store, in Times Square; for my girl, Jen, Da Purse Ho. All pics enlarge).

New York is in bloom, and it ain't just flowers! So, if you are between projects, or bored with your current one, put it down––and move your feet instead! The first annual New York Dance Parade, will take place on Saturday, May 19th! Join over six thousand other dancers, floats and Dj's representing every step from Ballet to Zydeco. This parade is a true celebration of my city's diversity, and a response to the ever-more stringent cabaret laws. Given the obscene number of bars here, maybe if people danced more, they would drink less; alcohol interferes with your rythmn. The event is for all ages, groups, gender preferences, races––everybody, dammit, who likes to dance, or go to dance performances, or just move. So register, grab your stilts, tap shoes, flats or sneakers, and join me, Mr. K, and the rest of us (we'll be part of the House Collective).

My knitting brothers––are you in a stitch, too? Well…

Billie's Black, a sexy little restaurant, is presenting Black Friday: The Adonis Party, a sexy little cocktail party on Friday, May 18th, at 9pm. I'll probably pop my head in with Paul Eaddy for a minute, to catch up with some friends––the copiously creative painter Gregory Grey, Tom Martin (who was excellent, in the TWAS production of Hamlet), Tony D. (please, put that mohair sweater down. You can finish it in September, honey; come out and have a glass), Murphy Heyliger (co-owner of Harlemade. I'll make sure you get your sweater), the gifted Kenneth Lee Roberson, and many more…last night was the men's night at Pier 2110. I heard that three weeks ago, it was packed. Now, there's about 30 or so fellas. Hmmph. Come on now, support!

You Won't Get These From NetFlix

This Saturday, May 12th, The National Museum of African-American Cinema, is having a rare video and DVD fair, taking place at the museum gift shop. There will be over 5,000 different titles for sale, including some rare all-Black cast movies from 1928 -1950, documentaries and recent releases. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building, 163 West 125th Street @ 7th Avenue; museum gift shop - 9th floor; from 10am to 7pm (but you better get there early, as it's gonna be crowded). Proceeds will go to the museum's building fund. For more info, contact Gregory Javan Mills, 212-749-5298.

It's Tea Time!

(This wonderful image, is by Florence Ward, ca. 1950-1970; children's catalog, Library of Congress;      LC-USZ62-122105 (45)).

The Harlem Knitting Circle is having it's 2nd annual afternoon tea party to celebrate Mother's Day, on Saturday, May 12th, from 11am to 3pm. Come out to knit and crochet, while enjoying some delightful food and music (and trust me, these sisters can turn out some fabu fare). Admission is a dish to share (purchased food is welcome, so don't be intimidated). Dress up please, no slacks allowed. The George Bruce Branch Library, 518 West 125th St.(btw Amsterdam Ave & Broadway);  (212) 662-9727 or e-mail, at george_bruce@nypl.org. I'll be checking in.

One Last Thing

That's it for now folks, I'm beat––but I'll leave y'all with a lil' sumptin' sumptin,' just to show that I haven't spent all my time, running the streets.
My Conflicting Cables cardigan looks better on me, than Lola here, but my hair isn't done; tomorrow is another day. Made from Berella "Whistler," a too soft merino wool, (thank the ancestors for pumice stones), it took me only two months––seriously––to knit. I needed a replacement for my leather jacket. The yarn came from Smiley's, purchased at the store. The cost, including buttons––$36.00USD. See, knitting does save you money; that's the frugal fabulousness of it.

A Minute To Shoot The Breeze

Forget That Tome…

(This, is couture crochet. It is not only the technique, but how well its adaptation was thought out, that makes this shoe arresting. In the end (and it is all about the end result, isn't it), it is more important to understand the power of the medium, than just how to make the stitches. Yes, there have been crocheted shoes out there, but not like this. John Galliano for Christian Dior, spring '07. Runway photo, Marcio Madeira. And a big shout out to the artisan who crocheted the shoe fabric).

And Speaking of little Knots

My catch up designing and knitting has had me tied down to the fast track of life. Which was okay, but now the end of my two week vacation is speeding toward me, express-train style. But with a bit of this news in, I'll be able to––rest my fingers and move my feet instead!

New York's premier jungle and drum n' bass party has returned! Thursday night, a legendary triumvirate will spin at The Sullivan Room, NYC. DJ SS is one of the three, and the man of the hour for me. Go to Direct Drive for details, and wear something crocheted–-it's an appreciative crowd!

 

 

Mama Gets A New Pair Of Shoes!

WHO-O-O-WEE!    HAHA!

I ordered these feel-good clogs from the Tracey Ross shop in West Hollywood. I was at work, researching info as usual, when I discovered the store's site. While perusing their über-expensive merchandise, I saw these clogs for the AMAZING sale price of $17.99USD! I can't even remember what they originally cost. Anyway, they had my size––10––and to be totally honest, this is the first pair of shoes I have ever purchased on-line. There was one, and only one reason why I took a chance and bought them. Can you guess?

They arrived last Thursday, and the fit is perfecto. The knit, gives me a cotton/ramie kind of feel. I've been wearing them non-stop, in the house. Now, I can't wait for spring to really arrive, so I can wear them outside. Here's a big shout out to the designer!

So Much For Cuteness

What Babies Think About Knitting

While searching for an outfit to knit for Mr. K's fairly new (he'll be 1 year old this September) nephew Loughlin, I came upon this pattern book from my collection. The baby pictures, are the courtesy of Miss Kim Kelly. She certainly had a wicked sense of humor.

Indeed, I found it quite refreshing; the constant parade of cuteness we are bombarded with today in countless baby books, often makes me wonder how hard professional baby handlers have to work to get the desired level of happiness from their models. On the other hand, judging from these photos, it seemed the opposite effect, was much easier to attain. The infants simply had to be taught how to knit.

This pattern might be easy enough for a beginnner, but the baby thought…