The Musk Ox - Qiviut blog

Oddments of yarn giveaway - February 2012

2012-02-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

Qiviut colors.....well here they are for a total of 654 grams. Yardage not known as they are a mix of 2 ply lace, 3 and 4 ply. Colors: natural qiviut, natural buffalo, lime, navy blue, red's, raspberry, mahogany, qiviut McKinley, bijoux blue, Bordeaux, all leftovers and in need of a home...
The yarns are 100% qiviut, 100% Buffalo, 50% qiviut/merino, 50% angora/qiviut, Angora 80% and a bit of a UFO there too knit from 4ply Tundra pearl.

What would you knit/crochet with this lot ?
1 winner picked at random - from 2012-02-02 TO 2012-02-29

competition winner

2012-02-01T17:29:00.000-05:00

And the winner drawn at random is Martine......please email us so we can mail your yarns !
cottagecraftangora@hotmail.com

February giveaway is for more oddments......check back to see what i have cleaned out of my baskets this time !

Oddments of yarn.......January 2012 yarn giveaway

2012-01-13T15:21:00.001-05:00

Once again i cleaned out another basket....its a shame to have all that lovely yarn just sitting there doing nothing ! Someone is going to be sent this lot pictured above !
This is 330 grams (11.7 oz) mostly 4 ply, a blend of 70% qiviut-30%merino and some yarns are 35% qiviut with bamboo and merino in all natural colors.

To win this little lot simply tell us what you would make using this yarn......winner will be drawn at random, winner will announced february 1st 2012.
Happy knitting !

Competition winners- qiviut-queen-superwash merino

2012-01-04T08:59:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year and the winners are :
Jennifer,
Dinah and Tom,
Tundra Gypsy,
Janice M. Biscoe,
Ginger

Please contact me via email with your shipping address. cottagecraftangora@hotmail.com
Your yarn will mail out on the 20th january !

Thank you to all who took part and check the next competition/giveaway to be announced in a few days !

qiviut-queen-superwash yarn December Yarn/competition Giveaway

2011-11-30T04:02:00.065-05:00

Qiviut-queen-superwash yarn above shown in natural.

And grape juice above here.
Love how this yarn feels, its soft and very spongy and has lots of memory. The yarn hugs the bamboo needles. So far i have knit socks, a hat and i'm working on a garter slip stitch scarf and have plans for a knitted throw made up of different pattern blocs cables and Texture sts etc. This yarn will be available in 20 ish Lush colors.

This is the little pair of sockettes knit from the yarn in rain forest colorway. Took only 45 grams.

.........And a hat in the same colorway........ i ♥ this color !

Garter Slip st scarf in Natural, Raspberry and Mahogany......scroll down page for pattern !

The Competition: 5 winners will be drawn at Random and each will win 1 - 100 gram skein of qiviut-queen-superwash yarn. (sorry no color choice) but we have these in handpainted and solid Jewel colors.

Tell us: what you love most about Qiviut Fibers and Yarns.
Open to all, end date 31-12-2011. Winners will be Drawn January 1st 2012

Textured scarf is knit widthways requires a 100 gram skein. Finished scarf measures 6'' X 72''

Really easy Garter slip stitch that makes for a lovely sturdy stich design that is very comfortable to wear.

The 1st and last 6 sts are always knit on every row to form the edges of the scarf

You will need: 100 grams of yarn either solid or differnt colors,

US4 - 3.5mm straights or circular needle,

2 stitch markers,

wool needle.

The pattern:

Please note: scarf above is worked in 1 row in each color A,B and C throughout.

A=Natural, B= Mahogany, C= Raspberry

With 3.5mm - US4, cast on 401 sts and begin with 6 Foundation rows in Natural, then change to contrast color and begin pattern below.

Row 1: knit ( k6 place marker, knit across and place marker for last 6 sts to form the edge)

Row 2: knit

Row 3: k6-sm= slip marker, k1, * sl1 purlwise, k1; rep from * to marker, k last 6 sts.

Row 4: k6-sm, k1, *yf sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1; rep from * to marker, k last 6 sts.

Rows 5 and 6: knit.

Row 7: k6-sm, :k2, *sl 1 purlwise, k1; rep from * to marker, k last 6 sts.

Row 8: k6-sm, k2, *yf, sl 1purlwise, yb, k1; rep from * to marker, k last 6 sts.

Repeat these 8 rows for 5 full pattern repeats then knit all sts for 6 rows to form outer edge.

Tassels`:

make 4: I used the same 3 colors as in the scarf by wrapping the yarn around palm of hand or closed fingers 20 turns, slipped it off my hand and put a length of yarn through the center and tied a secure knot in the top with enough length to sew the tassel to scarf, cut through bottom loops to open the tassel fringe, cut another length of yarn and secure around the middle of the tassel, trim with scissors then stitch to scarf.

To see more colors of this yarn here's the Link:

www.cottagecraftangora.com/#/superwash-qiviut/4557554607

November competition winners

2011-11-30T03:45:00.002-05:00

The two winners drawn at random are:
Karen......you win the qiviut scarf and
Brendaknits.......you win the qiviut yarns.
Please contact us so we can ship you your goodies ! cottagecraftangora@hotmail.com

Chek out the next competition....... for our new qiviut-queen superwash yarns

100% Qiviut scarf competition/giveaway.

2011-10-31T08:56:00.011-04:00

Finished all my custom knit orders and even my Christmas knitting is done ! Finally got to cast on for this months competition. This time its a 100% qiviut scarf, easy lace stitch but the special bit is the WHITE Qiviut, yes white ! I have been lucky enough to get a small quantity of white qiviut and thought it would be nice to add some to this scarf . The picture above makes the qiviut look really white but its not that white, more creamish. we had to add 15% merino to the white qiviut as it was a bit short, we closed the twist but it should still have a lovely soft Halo after washing.

Below is a picture of the Stroller outfit and baby Blanket i knit using white and natural qiviut.

The white and natural color look good together.

About the scarf: White qiviut scalloped edge changes to Natural colored qiviut, Knit width ways, you cast on 412 sts on 3.5mm-US4. Has an easy lace st design, should measure about 72'' long and 7'' wide after blocking......i hope !
The competition...... 31-10-2011 TO 28-11-2011.
This month we are giving 2 prizes: 1st the yarn in natural qiviut and some white qiviut to knit this scarf, (your saying, 'what scarf ', well i have to knit it but will add pics as i go along ) 2nd the actual scarf so you can gift it (it's nearly christmas) or keep it for yourself !

To enter: Tell us what knitted item you Gift the most for others !
example, Mine happens to be Scarves !

yarn requirements: 50 grams of lace weight yarn and 15 grams of contrast lace yarn. Total yards about 480.
The pattern:
With contrast yarn and US4 - 3.5mm straights Cast on 433 sts.
Rows 1-4: Knit.

Row 5: (rs) 1st and last 6 sts form the edges of scarf and should be knit on every row seperate with a st marker. k1, * (k2tog) twice, (yf,k1) 3 times, yf, (sl1, psso) twice, k1,(place stitch marker here to seperate the pat rep's )

Row 6: purl.

Rep rows 5 and 6 - three more times, then rep all 12 rows to form the pattern as set.

Continue to work another 4 pattern repeats and the knit a further 4 rows in white qiviut or contrast yarn.

To bind/cast off knit with 2 strands of white/contrast yarn held together to give a nice sturdy secure edge to the scarf.

Got 2''inches done so far......only another 4'' inches to go......its quite slow, takes about 20 minutes for 1 row!

Well its getting there. Today is the 27th of November and the deadline is the 28th so i only have a couple of hours to finish and get it mailed off to the Lucky winner. It now measures 5'' inches, only 2'' to go, i will work on it this evening while watching 'House of eliott' and will post the final picture after blocking !
After blocking the scarf measures 7'' X 76'' and i'm really happy with the look of the scarf ! Its very soft, has a wonderful Halo.

2011-11-30:
The 2 winners drawn at random are:
Karen our scarf winner and Brendaknits our yarn winner.....Thanks to all who took part !

Competition winner

2011-10-04T08:07:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the delay i have been unwell.........
The winner drawn at random is : arctiknits !

Congrats, contact us for your prize.

Stay tuned for next competition 100% qiviut scarf kit !

Artist's Hand Mock Cabled socks

2011-09-02T10:30:00.003-04:00

These little Beauties are so soft and warm. Not sure if they will be Durable inside a shoe or boot but i dont plan on wearing them outside. I love Qiviut socks in fall and Winter for simply relaxing on the sofa while knitting to keep my feet Toasty warm or as bed socks...... when the storm is rageing outside qiviut socks give you the best nights sleep.

Qiviut truely is 'the wonder wool of the North'. It's softer than Cashmere, warmer than anyother yarn, durable if you take care, has a beautiful halo.....is an investment in your wellbeing, looks good and looks even better with age, and is a God send for anyone who suffers from poor circulation.
Qiviut promotes Blood Flow due to the heating factor, warms joints and muscles so they relax. Anyone with poor circulation is in need of these socks, yes they are expensive but worth every dime as long as you take care of them !
They must be hand washed, cold water, lay flat to dry. In summer store the socks in a plastic tote to protect from moths (yes, like Humans Moth's ADORE Qiviut) ......do these things and your socks will last for years !

The Yarn details :

Artists Hand is 90% Qiviut - 10% Silk. Qiviut is a very soft Silky fiber that takes dye very well....colors are vibrant and alive ! This yarn is now available in 50 gram skeins for smaller projects.....check it out here :www.cottagecraftangora.com/hand-painted-qiviut/4546963932

The Competition details :

Tell us: Where is the place/country that has the most number of wild Muskoxen.

Competition is open to knitters world wide, runs from 2011-09-02 TO 2011-09-30

***Correct answers will enter and 1 name drawn at random***

Well i can say for a fact that these socks will NOT be durable but will be fine for bed/house socks when its really cold out.They have a wonderful halo and softness with a massive amount of warmth.

You will need:

1 set of 3.25mm and 2.75mm D.P.N's

60 grams of 2 ply lace weight yarn such as Artists hand,

stitch marker,

wool needle.

Tension: 6sts=1'' inch. 8 rows = 1''inch long on 3.25mm

With 3.25mm and 2 strands of yarn held together cast on 50sts, join to work in the rnd.

Work rib top , *k1, p1, k2, p1 rep from * back to start of rnd.

Rep this rnd for 8rnds.

Next: move sts so you have on N1: 17sts, N2: 15sts, N3: 18sts

mock cable work:

1: *k1tbl, p1, k2, p1. rep from * back to beg.

2: *k1,p1,k1,yo,k1,p1.

3: *k1, p1, k3, p1.

4: *k1, p1, k3, with tip of left needle, lift 3rd st on right needle over 1st two sts and drop off, p1, rep from * to beg.

Work 12 pattern repeats

Change to 2.75mm D.P.N's and simply knit all sts for 12 rnds.

Heel Flap:

On N1 knit 13sts and slip the last 4 sts onto the beg of N2.

On N2, k1, sl1 across the 19sts and k1, sl1 for 4 sts from end of N3.

Turn work and p across row.

rep k1,sl1 and purl rows a total of 17 times.

More coming soon.....only 50% done!

competition winner - qiviut lace gloves kit

2011-09-01T09:29:00.001-04:00

And the winner is Lisa W, congrats.....please contact us so we can ship you your yarn & pattern !

Check out the September competition 'artists hand' yarn to knit a pair of
House/bed socks in Mock rib stitch !

Qiviut lace gloves August competition

2011-08-18T13:44:00.004-04:00

Luxurious 100% Qiviut fingerless gloves. These are my fav type of glove to knit, i love how easy this pattern is. The long cuff section is knit on 3.5mm straight needles and then the sts are transferd to 3.5mm D'P'N's to knit the thumb gusset, palm and fingers.......like putting your hand into a cloud. Shown in Natural qiviut color.

This months Giveaway.......Tell us what is your favorite type of knitting . Your answers should read as follows:
Example (this is what i like) 1: cables - (being most Loved)
                                             2: Lace
                                              3: fairisle
                                             4: Knit and purl patterns
                                              5: Rib stitch patterns - (Least Loved).....but i still like !
Winner will be chosen at Random and sent the pattern and 100% Qiviut yarn to knit these fingerless gloves.....Good luck !

Runs from 11-08-18 TO 11-08-31

competition winner- qiviut floral hat kit

2011-08-15T19:46:00.001-04:00

The winner drawn at random is RiaM......congrats, please contact us so we can send out your yarns.

Our next competition is for 100% Qiviut lace fingerless gloves......check it out within 24hrs.

2011-08-23:(still no response from winner) RiaM......please contact me.....you won the hat kit !

Felted Qiviut Hat - Kit Competition giveaway

2011-07-23T12:37:00.014-04:00

Arctic Muskox Floral Hat

The hat and Blog Entry is still undercostruction and when complete will have more flowers, I-cord top with Pandora style Silver beads ! Will post more pic's as i go along.

WE were supposed to have this months competition as part of a promotion for our, 'Arctic Muskox Blend vest' but sadly its not working out. I can't find the pattern but plan to rework it so we will offer it at a later date in late August.....check back for that !

This is the hat complete !
COMPETITION: Tell us What TWO Colors you would like to knit this hat from the selection below. One winner will be drawn at Random. Starts today 2011-07-23 will be drawn the 15th August 2011.
Choose 1 color for the hat and 1 color for the Flowers. You win the pandora style beads, enough yarn to complete an Adult size hat and enough yarn to make the flowers.
(Felting equipment and embellish knit are not include)
If you dont want to buy the embellish knit and felting items you can always knit the I-cords on D.P.N's and simply sew the flowers inplace as i have done in the past.

Colors: Hunter, slate Blue, Turky red, purple, raven black, mahogany, raspberry, egyptian red, bordeaux, navy blue and wild rose. (wild rose replaces the yarn on the end)

Onto the Felted hat Kit....... And Oh do i love it ! This ones knit with 2 strands held together of our 3 ply Arctic muskox blend in Raven Black and Wild Rose. The flowers are needle felted to the hat and this makes the hat so much sturdier and thicker and will be really Warm when Winter is Blasting !

I first knit this hat a few years ago from 100% Angora yarn and my daughter and her friends at school wore it out! Even the boys were having a turn of it ! Kyanna, my daughter said, ''its just too soft and warm everyone wants to wear it''.
The Hat is knit first, in the rnd on 4.5mm- 7US circular needle, has a lovely rolled edge. Most of it is knitted in Easy stocking stitch with only a few rows knitted in purl st to make two ridge sections that the flowers are added between. The flowers are I-Cords and the main flower on the top of hat is knit in a really easy petal form then attached or felted to hat. The hat has Easy top shaping so it fits snugly on the head. Fits the average person, has strectch upto 24'' inches. If you want to make this hat for a child simply use a 3.5 to 3.75mm needle size following the instructions as set.
***Pattern Instructions below***

Felting and the Embellish knit. I just adore the Embellish knit......OMG its so fast to make I-Cords......yards and yards in minutes ! Will be using this little treasure a lot more ! Bought this on http://www.ebay.com/ think it cost about $25.00 with shipping. In the picture above you can also see the felting mat and felting needle tool both by http://www.clover.com/. Cant remember where i bought those as i have had them 3 years and this is the 1st time i'm using them......should be able to get these on ebay too !
Heres the Link to bond america:
www.bond-america.com/products/embellish-knit.html

This is how the inside looks when properly felted......all the fibers are mangled together nicely!

The Pattern instructions:
Tension: 5sts= 1'' inch 7 rows = 1''inch square on 4.5mm- 7us.
The Hat:
Requires about 100 grams total.
With 4.5mm Cast on 88sts, holding 2 strands of yarn together. Join to work in rnd, place marker and knit until work measures 2.5'' inches long.
Next: purl all sts for 4 rnds. Then, knit all sts until work measures 4.5'' inches deep from beg edge.
Next: purl all sts for 4 rnds.
Next: knit 2 rnds and then begin top shaping.
Top Shaping:
1: *k2tog, k6, rep from* to end.
2: and all alternate rnds, k without shaping.
3: *k2tog, k5, rep from *as before
5: *k2tog, k4, rep from* to end.
7: *k2tog, k3, rep from * to end.
9: *k2tog, k2, rep from * to end.
11: *k2tog, k1, rep from * to end.
Next rnd, k2tog all round, break yarn leaving a 10cm tail and draw through rem sts. sew top closed.

Flowers:
Daisy cords : make 4. With 2 strands of yarn together and 4.5mm D.P.N's cast on 4 sts,
K the 4 sts, then slide the work back to beg of needle pulling the yarn from behind and knit. Continue until the cord measures 11'' inches long. Break yarn leaving a tail and draw through live sts to secure. Bend 1'' inch of the end of cord like so to form a petal. Each daisy has 5 petals.

SEW through the centre of cord (place only 1 stitch so you can pull out if your not happy with the look of the flower) secure and then make another loop next to this one sewing the loops inplace as you go until you have 5 loops per flower......it takes a few attempts to get the feel for it and have all your petals quite equal in size.

Sew through the centre of flower and sew inplace on the hat. If not felting then you will put a couple of sts through each petal so the flower lays flat.

Flower for top of hat:With 3.5mm needles and a single strand of yarn, cast on 2 sts.
Inc 1 sts at the beg of each row until you have 11 sts.
Break yarn leaving stiches inplace on the needle, simply slide the work to end of needle. On the empty needle cast on again as before rep the procedure until you have all 5 points on the same needle.
Next: knit across all 5 points, knit 2 rows.
next: k2tog across, k1.
next: k2tog across row.
next: k2tog across - 7sts rem, pass 6sts (1 at a time over 1st stitch), fasten off.
Needle Felt or sew the flower inplace as shown below.

I-Cord Top:
As before for daisy, cast on 4 sts and make an I-Cord 18'' inches long. Attach to top and center of flower,add beads on ends and tie a knot in end of cord to prevent bead from falling off.

ABBREVIATIONS:
K=Knit, rnd(s)= round, sts= stitches, beg= begining, D.P.N.= double pointed needles, K2tog= knit next 2 sts together to make 1 stitch=a decrease, rem=remain,

Winter Cherry and Raven Black

This is a hat that i managed to knit and finish in one day......Thanks to the embelish knit gadget and clover felting pad and needles. These hats are really easy to knit and the felting and I-Cords add Fun

And another....just can't stop knitting these hats......i love the natural gray soft-spun Angora with navy blue

Hand painted Arctic muskox blend in Violet & Raven Black

2011-07-02T15:17:00.006-04:00

The cross over cardi is well underway.

Knitting this one on 3.5mm straights but now i wished i was on the Addi circs, too late now i dont want to start over. I think this ones going to be without sleeves so i can wear it over a T.

The pattern is 'Old shale stitch' or 'Victorian lace stitch'.....real easy and the results are instant !

The color is Handpainted Violet and Raven Black, knit with a 3 ply so its nice and fast, has little shaping to it and will have the Right front crossing over the left , will fasten with a hand knit rose pin applied to broach hardware. I'm knitting this in XL so its nice and roomy. To knit this in any other size simply use a larger or smaller needle. Not sure how much yarn it will take but i have 800 grams left in this same color lot.....could possibly be our next giveaway !

Used a total of 280 grams. You will find this yarn at the following link. www.cottagecraftangora.com/qiviut-blends/4535407224 This is size XL measures: Back- 20'' wide and 24'' inches long from back neck to bottom hem. Right front 14.5'' inches wide. Left front 11'' wide including front bands.
tension 7sts= 1'' inch. 8 rows=1'' inch on 3.5mm.
The neck, arm and front bands are knit on 3.00mm's

The flower broach is knit with 100% Qiviut in raven black.
Will add the pattern and competition details soon !

18-07-2011: I have searched every place i can think of for the pattern draft and can't find it anywhere so i will have to think of another vest for the giveaway......please check back here in a few days as i have an idea for a vest knit from this same yarn & possibly the same colorway !

competition winners- socks and oddments

2011-06-25T07:28:00.002-04:00

Two winners drawn at ramdon are: 'Nancy G' and 'Jazz N Java'.......congrats you ladies please contact us with your details so we can mail your oddments package onto you !

Canada post is out on strike. Your yarns will ship the moment they are back at work. The Canada Gouvernment is working hard at trying to get them back working but who knows when that will be.

Thank you to all who took part......look for the next chance to win coming soon !

competition winner

2011-06-18T08:54:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Arctic waves shawl kit is Suzie, with her entry 'Arctic Indigo'.
Thanks to all who took part.....check back for the next competiton coming soon !

Arctic Waves shawlette kit

2011-06-02T11:07:00.012-04:00

'Arctic Waves Shawl'

''Arctic waves'' first started out as a scarf, but i found i couldnt stop knitting. The pattern is so Easy and relaxing, even if you think you cant do lace....if you can do a YO, you can do this !

The kit will contain the instructions pattern and 50 Grams of ''shade's of The Tundra'' yarn. The yarn is 60% Qiviut - 20% Milk - 20% Bamboo.

So far the shawl above has 20 repeats X 3'' inches each rep so measures 60'' inches across and 17'' inches deep.Knitted on 4.00mm circular needle. I will continue building/knitting until all the yarn is used up.

will take the final picture of the completed shawl for the next giveaway/competiton around the 15th June.

To win the Kit you will be asked to submit a color name for the hand painted yarn above: the yarn consists of Berry blue, navy Blue and raven black......all very subtle when blended together..... totally luscious and soft.

Please note the fibre content change: We decided to make a test batch of this yarn and we replaced the silk with Milk fibre and we like the results !

The shawlette is long enough infront that you can tie it leaving the ends to drape. It's so light and airy you forget you have it on.....would be easy to loose. A broach would be perfect !

And the winner is 'Suzie'. Suzie please contact us with your details so we can ship you your Arctic waves Kit.....congrats !

Socks and oddments of yarn

2011-05-18T08:10:00.073-04:00

Small projects are a wonderful way to finish using all your ends of yarns hanging around the knitting basket or basket'ssss in my case. Hats, booties, mitts etc, using oddments can give a stripe effect due to the shade of each yarn. You can also hand dye the finished knitwear solid Black and you will never know that the yarns were from different batches. Use a good quality dye such as http://www.wcushing.com/index.html I have ooodles of oddments and im sure i will never get through using them all up. (OOO' sounds like a giveaway) So far i have counted 5 baskets with ends, some weigh upto 400 grams each. They are way too special to put in the garbage after all they are 'Qiviut' and we put in a lot of hours and effort into making these wonderful yarns, i'm sure some savy knitter would get hours of pleasure out of these yarns !
The socks above are knit with 50% qiviut/merino and the contrast is 100% buffalo/bison from oddments. Our 2 ply knit double makes for a heavier knitwear and the yardage is Excellent.

This is the contents from just one basket. A mix of 100% qiviut, 50% qiviut-merino, 50% angora-qiviut, 100% Buffalo, natural and dyed yarns. Weighs about 400 grams, mostly 2 ply's. The yarns are all from different batches as you can see there is quite a difference in the shades between batches and blends.

What would you knit with these oddments ?

'' For followers of this blog only''

Followers of our blog, tell us what you would knit and we will randomly pick 2 winners .

You will receive 1 pack of oddments upto 400 grams.

look out for our next competition/giveaway.......a qiviut scarf kit !

Knitting Yarns

2011-04-26T07:14:00.006-04:00

Has been brought to our attention that not everyone can see and load our site due to the high graphics..... you need highspeed ! We will list our yarns here for all to see. To purchase any yarns just send us an email at: cottagecraftangora@hotmail.com We will contact you via email and bill you with paypal.

I will number the yarns so its easier for knitters to order !

***The average shipping cost per package is $9.00 to $12.00.

*** please note, yarns are in either skeins or balls....depends what we have in stock at the time of ordering

Yarn number 1 :

Yarn number 1:

100% qiviut, available in a 2 ply lace, 22 gram skein - 160 yards or 3 ply as shown, 22 gram skein 100 yards. Color shown Navy, is also available in : Natural, cranberry red, strawberry red, Hunter green, Bright Bordeaux, Purple, Raven Black. $39.50 each.

Yarn Number 2:

100% Buffalo/Bison yarn. 2 or 3 ply, in natural chocolate brown as shown or raven black, navy blue.

2 ply: 22 grams - 155 yards. $22.00 each

3 ply: 22 grams - 90 to100 yrds. $22.00 each

We also have this same yarn in a big 100 gram skein $90.00 each.

Yarn Number 3:

50% qiviut-50% merino. colors left to right: Hunter, blue slate, turkey red, purple, raven black, magogany, raspberry sorbet, egyptian red, bordeaux, navy blue, (the color on the end is no longer available)

22 gram skein - 160 yards, 2 ply lace, $15.00 each.

The same yarn above is also available in 50% Angora- 50% qiviut, $17.50 each.*** Please note colors are not exactly as shown as the different blends produce slightly different colors***

Soft Spun Angora is Back !
We first made this yarn in 2004. Due to our work load with the pure qiviut we had to give it a miss for a few years. Its back for good and will replace our 100% Angora until fall 2011. This easy knit yarn contains 80% Angora - 20% merino. 3 ply, like a sport weight, 50 gram skeins, 232 yards. 3.75 - 4.5mm needles ( for lacey projects use a 6 or 7.00 mm) Colors: (left to right) Raven Black, Turkey red, Bijoux Blue, Raspberry, Lavender, Wild rose. $15.00 each. More colours coming soon ! To see a Gorgeous sweater knit in this yarn check out this link:
www.canaryknits.blogspot.com/2008/03/le-lapin-noir.html

We will upload more yarns soon !

Competition: win this smokering

2011-04-21T08:24:00.007-04:00

Whatever you call it.....smokering, hood, snood.....its a very versatile garment that not only keeps you warm but adds a bit of glam ! You can wear it up over the head or pulled down around the neck like a scarf. Has an allover delicate lace design

We need a colour name for this yarn. The yarn is a new blend of 60% Qiviut-20% silk- 20% Bamboo. Lace weight 2 ply.
Hand-painted in Egyptian red and Bright Bordeaux. The Silk and bamboo really make the colors Flash .....the qiviut adds wonderful softness and warmth.

The competition is open to everyone world wide.
To enter leave your color name suggestions in the comment section and we will choose our favorite name.
Name can be relevant to the actual colors you see in the yarn, flowers from Nature, names related to musk ox, qiviut, the Tundra etc !
Competition runs until 20 Th May 2011.
Best of Luck !

Win this smoke ring
Date:21-05-2011
The winner of the smokering is 'Tamara'.....we thought the name ''Tundra Bearberry'' very fitting for this colorway. Congrats Tamara, please contact us by email with your mailing address !

April competition winner..........

2011-04-16T07:06:00.002-04:00

Winner drawn at random was '' Jennifer''...........please contact us at
cottagecraftangora@hotmail.com so we can ship you your yarns !

Thanks to all who took part !

Our next competition is a ''Name it'' competition. We have a new hand knit smokering design we are working on and need help with the name....be sure to enter ! Details wil be posted soon.

qiviut sweaters

2011-04-06T19:04:00.017-04:00

Just finished yet another 100% qiviut sweater....this one is sold and now on its way to its new home in Vancouver. I decided to knit this one with rolled edges to get that beautiful qiviut drape going. All edges are double cast off so there's no chance of stitches unraveling. Knit in fine 2 ply its just so yummy and soft as a cloud with that distinctive qiviut halo ! Qiviut is 8 times warmer than sheep wool and is so light and airy the knitwear is very comfortable to wear next to the skin. Available in Adult Sizes: small- $600.00, M-$640.00, L- $680.00, XL-$700.00, XXL-$740.00, XXXL- $770.00+ xpress shipping. Unisex design.

The ladies sweater (not shown) comes with ( at no extra charge) a lace neck scarf attached to the sweater by way of knitted belt loops. I will post a picture of this when i get around to knitting it in a few days or so. The scarf drapes beautifully and there's no chance of loosing the scarf as it fits snugly through the belt loops. To order a sweater or a custom knit design please contact me at http://www.cottagecraftangora.com/ for more information.

The 2nd sweater I'm working on above is knit with 80% Qiviut-20% super white merino. Knit with 3 strands together = 6 ply on 5.00mm circular needle. I knit the bottom 3'' inches on a 4mm to make the edge stitches firm. Its very Thick and I'm sure it will be very warm. This design is an irregular rib and i think its just what this heavy sweater needs......the rib construction and the merino content will help it keep its shape and drape !
Not sure how much yarn this sucker will take....i dare not count. I have balled 352 grams, the back and front so far measures 8'' and i need to go to at least 15'' inches up to the armholes. This baby is already sold and when finished will be on its way to Idaho. The customer bought this to keep him warm while riding his horse.

Will post more as the sweater progresses so check back Jim to see your sweater come to life !

So far so good......divided St's for back and front and I'm very happy with the yardage its better than i thought ! The sleeves are set in style and I'm DEC the St's at both ends for the arm hole shaping. The rose wood needles are very smooth (though not as smooth as the Addi turbos http://www.espacetricot.com/

i knit English style so the knitting is Flying now.....cant wait for it to be done so i can stand back and look at my work, this sweater is gorgeous and I'm sure i will be making many more of this design !

Voila.....complete except for i want to add a hood. I think the hood should be knit in regular plain stitch as this will highlight the overall design of this sweater. One of the great things about an overall rib design is that it really holds its shape well, has gorgeous drape and elasticity to every inch. The sweater looks small but it magically grows on you the moment you get it on ! The rib design feels so comfortable to wear and makes a person look taller and slimmer. Will post the final picture after i add the hood later today.....wish this was mine, Winter is back. Were having Snow and wind again today 'soooo lucky i don't have to travel to work'

So we can say .......its complete. This sweater is sold and now on its way to Jim. To buy this sweater design contact me at the email address above with your size and color choice. Price $1,800.00

HOOD FAIL.........well i tried 3 different hood styles and didn't like any of them on this sweater and i suddenly realised why ? The hood should be all one with the sweater......a continuation of the neck line. For sure next time i knit this i will suggest to the customer that we add a hood.

The Hat That was A Hood.......all is not lost. I had this rectangle left over.
10'' X 20'' so i turned it into a thick warm hat for hubby.
I stitched closed the seam along the short edge and turned up the brim section sewing it closed and along the length ways edge i gathered the top section on 4 strands of yarn so it would be strong enough to hold up to whatever he puts it through !

The stitch pattern is: 5mm needles cast on 66 sts * k3, p3, k1, p2, k2, p3, k4, p4, rep from * to end. Row 2: k the k sts and p the p sts.

30 minutes after this picture was taken he calls me from his Pied (foot) Dr's office and says ''er can i sell this hat''......the Doc wants it.......lets just say I'm not making another hat for him....the butcher might ask for the next one !

Qiviut/Merino Cabled Socks...in Bordeaux : March Competition

2011-03-13T12:50:00.027-04:00

The Clear winner of last months competition is the Egyptian red and why not ? Whats not to like about beautiful warm red with orangy undertones ! However, my fav is the bordeaux and much more suitable for me.
       Whats even better is knitting these socks with 50% Qiviut/50% merino yarn. The qiviut adds warmth, a luxurious feel...... sensuality to the yarn.....a feeling of gorgeousness and softness. The Merino adds strength, durability and some elasticity along with supleness and adds balance to the yarn. Qiviut/merino wool blend makes the perfect socks.....that are soft and warm.
Overall Design: cabled sock top, smooth leg and foot section and toes.....for the longest time i have wanted hand knit socks with toes so every toe is snuggly wrapped in comfort ! (if you are not comfortable knitting toes.....thats ok, just knit a plain toe section)

The Competition: Win the yarn to make these socks.

*****By entering this competition you agree to use this yarn (if you are the winner) to knit the sock pattern below (socks with or without toes) and by entering you agree to send us by email a picture of the actual socks for us to post on this blog !*****
The winner will be drawn at random. Open to knitters world wide.
Tell us in the comment section what your color preference would be, either Bordeaux or Egyptian Red !
Competition is open until 15Th April 2011.
                                 Best of Luck knitting buds !

To knit these socks You will need :
1 pair of 3.5mm straight needles.
1 set of 3.00mm D.P.N
1 set of 2.75mm D.P.N
1 st marker.
1 cable needle.
Wool needle
4 skeins of qiviut/merino yarn.

TENSION: over cabled section: 16 rows= 2.5'' X 30 sts= 4.5'' inches
Tension over plain/knit st 8sts= 1'' inch X 10 rows = 1'' inch

The cabled leg section of sock is knit on straight needles. Begin by casting on 30 sts with 2 strands of yarn together. Knit across 30 sts, then begin cable work below.
1: p5, c4B, (p4, c4B) twice, p5.
2:  k5, p4, (k4,p4) twice, k5.
3: p4, T3B, (T4F, T4B) Twice, T3F, p4.
4: k4, p2, k3, p4, k4, p4, k3, p2, k4.
5: p3, T3B, p3, C4F, p4, C4F, p3, T3F, p3.
6: k3, p2, k4, (p4, k4) twice, p2, k3.
7: p3, k2, p3, T3B, T4F, T4B, T3F, p3, k2, p3.
8: k3, (p2,k3) twice, p4, (k3,p2) twice, k3.
9: p3, (k2,p3) twice, C4B, (p3,k2) twice, p3.
10: k3, (p2,k3) twice, p4, (k3, p2) twice, k3.
11: p3, k2, p3, T3F, T4B, T4F, T3B, p3, k2, p3.
12: As 6Th row.
13: p3, T3F, p3, C4F, p4, C4F, p3, T3B, p3.
14: As 4th row.
15: p4, T3F, (T4B, T4F) twice, T3B, p4.
15: As 2nd row.
Rep above pattern 3 more times. Next bind/cast off all 30 sts.

                                                    Make sock:
With wrong side of work facing you, pick up and knit 54sts along the Longest edge onto a 3.00mm D.P.N. Next, with right side of work facing you, knit across the 54sts and put 18 sts each onto 3 dpn's.
                                                                 OR:
For a seam at the back of socks : Stitch the cast on, cast off edges together to form a rnd, with the seam facing to the center back, pick up and knit 18 sts for 1 st needle and then rep all around for needles 2 and 3.
Join to work in the rnd, k1, place marker and continue to knit around ( putting extra tension on the 1st stitch of each needle to prevent a ladder forming ).
continue knitting in the rnd until work measures 8.5'' inches long from beg edge of cable design.

                                                     Heel Flap:
Knit across 14sts of 1 st needle. Slip the last 4 sts onto needle 2. On needle 2 we knit the heel flap.
K1, slip 1 all across needle and add 4 sts from needle 3 to needle 2 so you now have 26 sts on needle 2 for heel flap. Next row: Turn work and purl all sts. Continue to k1, slip 1 and purl rows until flap measures 3'' inches long.

                                              This picture taken outside shows the true color of Bordeaux and its not at all Dark as the picture at the top of page suggests !

                                               Turn Heel:
1: (WS) p14, p2tog, p1, turn work.
2: sl 1, k7, k2tog, k1, turn.
3: sl 1, p8, p2tog, p1, turn.
4: sl 1, k9, k2tog, k1, turn.
5: sl 1, p10, p2tog, p1, turn.
6: sl1, k11, k2tog, k1, turn.
7: sl1, p12, p2tog, p1,turn.
8: sl1, k11, k2tog, k to end.

                                              Make sock Gusset:
With (RS) work facing you and on needle 3, pick up 14 sts evenly along the heel edge. Continue knitting across needle 3. You now have 29 sts on needle 3. Rep for other side of gusset adding the sts to needle 1. Slip marker and knit 1 rnd.
dec shaping rnds; needles 1: k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1.
                                           2: k without shaping.
                                           3: k1, k2tog, k to end.
Every 2nd rnd k without shaping. continue until you have 17 sts rem on needles 1 and 3. Next rnd: continue shaping as above for another 6 rnds and at the same time dec on needle 2 as thus: k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1.
When finished you should have: 14 sts on needles 1 and 3 = (28), needle 2 has 12 sts.
K for a further 6 rnds.

Foot shaping increases: on needle 1, k to last 2 sts, inc 1 st. needle 2- no increase. Needle 3, k1 inc 1 sts, k to end. Next rnd: knit without inc. rep these 2 rnds another 3 times until you have 18 sts on needles 1 and 3 and 12 sts on needle 2.

Continue knitting without shaping until sock reaches to beg of toes......try it on for correct fit !
Knit the Toes:
''Right Foot''

With 2.75mm d. p needles knit 2 rnds.( With 2.75mm the large toe sts will be smaller and firmer so they will be more durable) ! If your socks are anything like mine ' its always the large toe area thats goes first' !

After knitting the 2 rnds, slide 6 sts from needle 1 onto needle 2 and 6 sts from needle 3 onto needle 2. knit sts from needle 1 onto needle 3 removing stitch marker as you go. You now have 48sts divided onto 2 needles that are facing eachother. Next we divide for toes (DO NOT BREAK YARN)

It is very important to try on the sock as you knit so each toes is perfect !

I found that the toes were a little on the small side and would have been better if knitted on a 3.00mm needle !

With contrast thicker yarn and wool needle remove 16 sts to waste yarn. Rep for other needle. Divide the 16 sts remaining onto 3 needles and begin to knit around to make large toe. Knit with extra tension to keep sts firm and small = durable !
When knitting reaches just past the end of large toe, break yarn leaving a 10cm tail and close top of toe, secure sts and sew loose end inside if sock.

Next: the following toes are knit on 3.00mm D.P.N
Slip 4 sts from each side onto 2 d.p.n's, at same time pickup 1 extra st from both sides of the gap between toes so you now have 10 sts to knit 2nd toe. Leaving a 10cm tail to close gap between toes, join to work in the rnd and knit as before trying on the sock for fit.
Rep as above for the next 3 toes and then your done. Sew in any loose ends and begin other sock reversing the shapings for toes of other foot.......Knit 2nd sock as 1st until you reach the toe section, then follow the pattern below for Left foot.

Left Foot: you should have all your sts on 2.75mm d.p.n'S and are ready to divide for toes.
Needles 1 and 3. slip 6 sts each from the ends of these needles onto needle 2. This needle now contains 24 sts. knit the sts from needle 2 directly onto needle 1. You now have all sts on 2 parallel needles. to knit the large toe of left foot you must knit to the opposite end of needle 2. You are now ready to remove the extra sts to waste yarn as before and knit the large toe on the 2.75mm needles as before and remaining toes on 3.00mm needes.

ABBREVIATIONS:
T3F= put next 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work, purl the next st from left hand needle, then knit the 2 sts from cable needle.
T3B= put next st onto cable needle and hold at back, knit next 2 sts from left hand needle, purl the st from the cable needle.
C4F= put next 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work, knit next 2 sts from left hand needle, then knit 2 sts from cable needle.
C4B= put next 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at back, knit next 2 sts from left hand needle, knit the 2 sts from cable needle.
T4F= put next 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at front, purl next 2 sts on left hand needle, then knit the 2 sts from cable needle.
T4B= put next 2 purl sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 2 sts from left hand needle, then purl 2 sts from cable needle.

Competition winner: Photo by Jennifer Crandall.
'' The Worlds Softest Socks ''

competition winner

2011-02-21T06:52:00.002-05:00

And the winner is: Darcys Knotty Knitter.
Darcy wins 3 skeins of Arctic musk ox blend in her color choice raspberry ripple. Congrats ! And thanks to all who took part.....the clear winner is the Egyptian red.
We would like everyone to know how we choose at random: as the comments come in we write the name down on a little post it note paper and slip it in a bag that we have hanging on the office notice board. The day after the competiton i get someone passing through ( business partner, kids, customer)to pick 1 out......so its fair for all who enter.
The next competiton is planned and will be posted soon.........Egytian Red SOCKS !

Buffalo/Bison Blanket

2011-02-18T12:16:00.001-05:00

Another little treasure complete ! All knitters love that feeling you get when you have completed another project and you just know EVERY ST is PERFECT.....I know this blog is supposed to be about 'Qiviut' but Buffalo
is another little Luxury i allow myself to indulge in.
100% Pure buffalo, Fully dehaired so the blanket is very soft and oh so cuddly ! Designed this one with natural buffalo and navy blue, has raised stitch design on some blocs and plain knit sts on others and at this moment its on its way to its new owner in Arlington VA. ''I'm sure your gonna love it Liz''. Blanket measures 54'' X 75'' but has a 2'' inch border all around. The buffalo has a wonderful soft spongy feel to it. I tested it by wrapping it around my shoulders and you could feel the heat starting to generate within 60 seconds.
This blanket is $ 950.00 usd and includes xpress shipping.

Easy Knit Gloves

2011-01-21T18:01:00.012-05:00

These are real easy to knit ! I used the 3 ply Arctic musk ox blend in Navy, Raspberry, hand painted teal and navy and a new hand painted color consisting of all the above colours, 4 colours in total and i may have enough yarn for 2 pairs !
Knit on 2.75mm D.P.N so the construction is firm and close fitting.
The only patterns i could find were calling for a total of 7 needles.....way to complex and annoying so i thought i would design an easy pattern using only 4 needles and holding sts not in use with waste lengths of yarn. Much simpler, easy to work and No Tangled needles to make you scream ! Follow the tension suggestion below and if you feel that you need them larger or smaller simply go up or down a needle size:

Tension on 2.75mm = 7 sts=1'' inch X 9 rows = 1'' inch
The picture above shows the thumb sts on waste yarn just before i close the gap.
***Remember when knitting in the RND (round)...Always put extra tension on your 1 st of every needle to prevent an ugly ladder/gap forming***.

I will add the pattern and more pictures as i go along, i hope to be able to show different segments in detail so you can easily knit these for yourself !

I would say the only sticky bit of this pattern is separating the sts and holding the sts not in use and writing the text in a clear easy to understand manner !

If this is your 1 st pair of gloves its probably better to knit them using a single colored yarn and trying the gloves for fit as you go along.

The Pattern:

You will need 75 grams -3 skeins of Arctic musk ox 3 ply yarn.

1 set of 2.75mm D.P.Needles.

3 lengths of waste yarn-worsted weight or small stich holders.

3 st markers.

ABBREVIATIONS- rnd=round. sts= stitches, sm=stitch marker,dpn=double pointed needles, sm=slip marker. Beg= beginning.

Make Cuff:

With 2.75mm dpn and your main colour cast on 44 sts, join to work in the rnd, pm knit 1 row.

Next rnd: k2, p2 for 6 rnds, then k 1 rnd.

change to raspberry: k2, p2, 6 rnds Raspberry, k1 rnd.

Change to main colour, k2,p2 for 7 rnds, k1 rnd. Rib is complete.

With Navy k 5 rnds.

With main colour knit 6 rnds.

THUMB GUSSET:

Join on Raspberry and at the same time make thumb.

RND 1: k 18 sts, PM, m1, k1, m1,k1,PM, continue knitting rnd.

RND 2: and all Alternate rnds- knit without shaping.

RND 3: k 18, sm, m1, k3, m1, sm, k rem sts.

RND 5: k18, sm, m1, k5, m1, sm, k to beg.

Change to main colour: RND7:k18, sm, m1, k7, m1, sm, k to beg.

RND 9: k18,sm, m1, k9, m1, sm, k to beg.

RND 11: k18, sm, m1, k11, m1, sm, k to beg.

Change to navy and turquoise.

RND 13: k18, sm, m1, k13, m1, sm, k to beg.

Next Rnd: knit all sts to 1st marker, remove marker and put the next 13 sts for thumb onto waste yarn.

Next close the gap, knit putting EXTRA tension on the sts to close the gap. Palm Section:

Continue knitting around for another 5 rnds with navy and turquoise yarn.

As you can see from the picture above there is ample room to try the gloves on so you can get the best possible fit (try doing that with 7 needles flopping about !)

Change to hand painted yarn and knit another 6 rnds, again try the glove on for fit. After completing the next 6 rnds the work should reach the base of the beginning of your fingers.

Change to navy and knit 2 rnds.

, at same time inc 1 st each end of all 3 needles

Next make fingers:

With navy yarn, k across needle 1 and knit 8 sts onto needle 1 from needle 2. The rem 8 sts on needle 2, slip them onto needle 3 so you now have 48 sts on 2 needles that are parallel to each other.

DO NOT BREAK YARN !

See below

Take 2 lengths of waste yarn and remove 18 sts from the end of 1 needle so you have 6 sts remaining, repeat for other needle. At this point i like to change to bamboo needles for the fingers, the bamboo is non-slippy so there is no chance of dropping sts when working in the rnd on a few sts!

With Thumb gusset facing to the right side begin to knit the index finger. k 4sts onto needle 1, 4sts each onto needles 2 and 3, put extra tension on the 1st of each needle so its nicely closed. Knit about 15 rnds and try on the glove, the knitting should come just over the tip of index finger.

Next: Break yarn leaving a 10cm tail, load wool needle and run through the 12 sts, close tightly and sew in loose end to inside of glove.

Change color for middle finger or not !

begin cast on by leaving a 10cm tail (this is used to sew gap between fingers when glove is complete). Rep as for index finger, picking up a total of 12 sts and knitting this finger to same length as index finger. Rep for the ring finger too.

Pinkie-small finger: You should have 11 or 12 sts remaining (me, sometimes i have 12 and sometimes i have 11) ! You should have 12, if not, inc 1 st by picking up a loop between finger gap. Knit as for other fingers trying the glove as you go along and knitting till it reaches the top of your wee finger and close in the same way as other fingers.

Next: turn glove inside out and sew in all the loose ends by weaving them into same coloured rows.(i prefer a really sharp darning needle for this as it slips into the pearl sts neatly.

Thumb:

divide the 13 sts onto 3 needles and inc 1 st on needle 1. Knit as for fingers trying on as you go and finish in the same way sewing in the loose end.

Go make another glove !

January Competition: vote for your favourite colour

2011-01-19T09:54:00.005-05:00

We LOVE Colour and want to know what is the most popular....Vote for your fav Arctic musk ox blend colour from the options above, left to right: hunter, slate blue, turkey red, purple, raven black, mahogany, raspberry ripple, Egytian red, Bordeaux, navy blue and Azalea.... Winner will be chosen at random and will receive enough yarn in your colour choice to make these EASY TO KNIT gloves.
This competeition runs to the 20th febuary 2011, open to knitters and Non-knitters world wide.

Competition winner

2011-01-01T09:55:00.004-05:00

And the winner is : Alison H.
With her entry ......Aulavik, Arctic Lichen, Sitka, McKinley, Taiga. Alison please contact us so we can ship you your prize......
Alison wins the skein of 'Artists Hand yarn' and the gorgeous soft lace scarf......congratulations petal !

Thanks to all who took part.

We have more Monthly competitions planned so Become a follower of our blog to see at a glance what were up to !
this months competition is already planned and will be published within a day or two.....so check back.....
'Happy Knitting New Year'

Artists Hand scarf...the giveaway

2010-11-19T15:38:00.002-05:00

This is the lace scarf knit from 'artists hand yarn' as part of our competition . Is knit from yarn number 1, measures 10'' X 52'' and is just so lightweight and soft, complete with a beaded slide that you can remove. Enter the competiton below for your chance to win this scarf and a 100 gram skein of this Gorgeous yarn !

yarn giveaway-win a skein of 'artists Hand' yarn

2010-11-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

Here at cottage we are asking for yarn color name suggestions for our new 'artists hand' yarns 90% Qiviut- 10% Merino. To enter choose a name for each of the 5 yarns above, leave your suggestions in comments section and the person with the 5 best names wins ! To make it fair for everyone it will be my business partner who decides which entry wins
As this type of yarn is sooo special we would like the colour names to reflect the yarn content....think Qiviut - Musk Oxen - Tundra -Arctic Circle....flowers of the Tundra....check out Google and see what you can come up with !
Competition is open to everyone....world wide, closing date: December 31st 2010.What you win: 1 -100 gram skein of artists hand And a lace scarf 52'' X 10'' knit from 'artists hand yarn' the winner will be announced on this blog new years day( if i havent got a massive hangover...lol)...get your thinking cap on !

Shrug knit from musk ox yarn

2010-10-27T12:19:00.002-04:00

A very simple way to construct a shrug is to knit the basic rectangle shape. this very versatile garment when knit from 100% qiviut or qiviut blends makes a wonderful back and shoulder warmer that's whisper light. You can easily knit your own shrug in any type of stitch design simply by knitting a rectangle shape.Measurements: S: 38'' X 20'' inches deep. M: 42'' X 22'' L: 46'' X 22'' XL: 50'' X 24'' The garment is knit length ways, casting on the sts for the left arm and knitting until you reach the right arm. To find your size, measure how long you want the sleeve to be X by 2 (for both sleeves) and then measure across the width of your shoulders/back or measure the width of your fav sweater. Once complete stitch the arm seams closed 2.5'' inches short of arm pit.......Voila

musk ox -fingerless gloves

2010-10-20T15:39:00.003-04:00

''Going mad for teal''.....Knit from 100% musk ox yarn. I knit these with 2 strands of our lace weight yarn together on 3.75mm straights for the long cuff section & then changed to 3.75mm D.P.N for hand & finger section.....small project can be knit over the weekend. Added a sprinkling of beads as i'm a big bead fan !

I found this colour quite by accident. The gloves were supposed to be 'slate blue' but i added too much dye so i ended up with Teal.....loved the colour so much i had to get some teal nail polish & a gorgeous teal eyeliner. As i'm a big fan of Betsey Johnson i found a pair of froggy earrings in teal too. Teal is the colour this year.....even hollywood stars are mad about teal.....love it !

Arctic musk ox Blend cardigan Pattern.

2010-05-31T09:19:00.002-04:00

Knit from our new Arctic Qiviut blend of 30% Qiviut- 20% Merino- 20% Silk- 30% Baby Alpaca- at $7.95 per 25 gram skein its a Luxurious little bargain. I knit this on a 3.5mm and used our 3 ply. I am pleasantly surprised with the results, the sweater is so soft warm and the fit is wonderful- close fitting and not too bulky in size XL.Perfect to wear with a thin t-shirt or a cute Cami-top. The colour is a natural sort of oatmeal. I don't usually go for this type of colour but this has a special sheen to it and the baby alpaca adds halo. I didn't want buttons for this so i opted for a single sterling silver clasp i bought from a silver dealer in Israel ....still hasn't arrived as yet ( i buy from Israel as much as possible to score Heaven points from God) - though at the moment I'm not too happy with the situation concerning the block aid of goods destined for Palestine

i feel its an unfair situation that is making many people suffer unfairly !

Old Shale Stitch or feather and fan pattern has been around since Victorian times.... makes for an easy knit stitch on the run. This pattern is so easy. Even if you have never knit a cardi before you can do this. The is similar to a short sleeved cardi from http://www.flossyanddossy.blogspot.com/. Wendy, is a designer of everything Vintage and has Oh so cute wiggle

dresses at a very reasonable price for her quality workmanship.Check her out and grab yourself a little something special.

Tension: Over stocking st on 3.5mm needles -24sts X 27 Rows = 4'' inch square.

The overall measurements are: Length-back-24''. Width - 21''

Sleeves: length - 19'' - Width at top of sleeve -17''

Width at Front: 22'' includes the front bands/ribs. These measurements are approx; and are based on my knitting tension and the garment after blocking.

You will need :

1 pair of 3.00mm needles , 1 pair of 3.5mm needles, stitch markers, wool needle,

20 - 25 gram balls of Arctic blend 3 ply by http://www.cottagecraftangora.com/

Clasp or buttons to close at collar.

The pattern:

With 3.5mm cast on 130 sts then follow this pattern throughout for the back.

1: (RS) Knit.

2: Purl side.

3: K2, * (PM)-place a marker, K2 tog ( 3 times), YO, K1 ( 6 times), K2tog (3 times).Rep from * to last 2 sts, k2.

4: Knit.

Repeat the above rows until work measures 15'' inches long ( no stretching). Next, change to regular stocking st on the next knit row, work until back measures 17'' inches long.

Under arm shaping: Cast of 5 sts at the beg of next 2 rows. then DEC 1 st each end of the next 4 rows. Work straight until armhole measures 9.5'' inches deep. Shape shoulders: cast off 6 sts at the beg of next 4 rows. then cast off all rem sts purl side.

Right Front:

Cast on 76 sts. Work as for back keeping pattern correct, shape armhole, cast of 5 sts on the beg of next knit row, then 1 st at the beg of next 4 rows. work until armhole measures 6'' inches then shape neck front by casting/binding off 15 sts.Next DEC 1 st at neck edge every other row until armhole measures 9.5'' inches. Next cast off 6 sts at shoulders edge every other row 2 times. cast/bind off remaining sts.

Left front:

Same as right, reverse shaping.

Sleeves:

With 3.5mm cast on 58 sts. Follow pattern as set and place markers between so you always know where your at. Work on the 58 sts for 6 pattern repeats, then inc 1 st each end, work another 2 full pattern rep then inc 1 st each end again. Continue to inc 1 sts each end every 2 full pattern repeats.(that's 4 rows = 1 pattern repeat). Continue as set until work measures 10' long(without stretching).

Next change to stocking st. continue to inc 1 st each end every 4 rows.When work measures 17'' long inc 1 st each end every 2 rows until 100 sts, cast/bind off purl wise.make another sleeve.

Next :lightly press and steam all edges using silk or wool setting on iron. Sew up all seams.

Front bands: With (RS) facing you, 3.00mm needles pick up & knit 136 sts from right front and K 2, P2 for 6 rows, cast off in k and p sts. Repeat for other side. You may find that you want a wider band, simply knit more rows till you happy with the width of the band/rib !

Neck: with 3.00mm needles pick up and knit 130 sts, k2,p2 for 6 rows, then cast/bind off knit and purl wise.

Please let me know if there are any errors......have fun !

100% Qiviut cabled cardi- part 2:

2010-03-15T16:40:00.001-04:00

Ok so i have started the Left Front and boy is it going fast working on 4.00mm's & only 73sts & 2 cables. I love doing cables so much that i can't put it down. The back of the sweater weighed a total of 95 grams so the fronts should take at least 10% more.....this means with all my odd ends of batches i should have enough to finish the cardigan. The left sleeve is now finished & i have started the right. I can't wait for it to be done so i can weigh the whole thing to know exactly how much yarn our new pattern will require ! At this stage i'm enjoying every st.........but what color should i dye this ? At the moment i'm into Black, Purple & Raspberry !

Coloring a Qiviut sweater is quite nerve wracking......i just know i'm going to be stressed all the time its in the pot even though i kind of know what i'm doing. The pieces of knitwear have to be dyed before stitching them together this allows the dye to get even coverage, the bands have to be knit after dyeing so we need to add enough yarn to the dye pot too, but what color ?

Qiviut cabled hat & mitts

2010-02-11T07:28:00.001-05:00

Hand Knit from 100% Qiviut, i knit theses with 3 strands of 2 ply together.....they are so soft, thick & warm. This set is sold but i can make more. The set above sells for $260.00usd Or knit them yourself....patterns on our site at www.http://www.cottagecraftangora.com/

Qiviut-Merino sweater-construction

2009-09-06T06:15:00.002-04:00

I couldnt resist.....i just had to get into the new bags of coloured qiviut.I sneaked out of the mill(i was supposed to be carding angora rabbit fibre) with an armful of yarn and just had to find a quiet place so i could decide what to make with this yarn.I have always wanted a qiviut sweater......but the natural brown-ish grey would never do.I love color.........armed with my copy of Sheila Mcgreggors ''Traditional Fair isle knitting'' i sifted through pages and pages of what appeared to be very complex fair isle designs......i don't have time for complex.......my knitting time for design is composed of a few minutes here and there! I settled on this boxy design and thought i would incorporate about 6 different colours into the sweater and this sweater will be affordable and easy to knit while using max amount of colour.
I will post pics of the sweater construction at each stage........the actual end design is not yet determined......i will get the feel as the knitting moves along. The yarns used so far are: Natural qiviut brown for the (MC) with hunter green, purple, raspberry and slate blue.
Finished the sweater and was sold before i got a chance to take a picture. At a Trunk show a customer Purchased it 'right off my back'.......I was thankfull i had showerd that morning OMG !

Qiviut-silk hand warmers

2009-08-18T09:52:00.001-04:00

I wanted to remake these for the longest time. Several years ago i made a pair of long hand warmers from 100% Angora and they were really well received so i thought i would re-write a pattern for them made from qivisilk.It's very nice to work with.....soft and slippy.Again,i am knitting them with 2 strands of qivisilk together......makes for quicker knitting. I started them on 4 D.P.N but changed to 3 needles to make the pattern go easier.I am still knitting the wrist section and i want to make them quite long.....maybe almost elbow length and i still haven't decided if i should make them all over lace right down to the fingers....you know....across the palms too! Or should i stop the lace at the section just before the thumb insert?

100% Qiviut cabled sweater- sweater construction-part 1:

2009-08-18T09:50:00.000-04:00

Today i just had to start a new Cardi,this one will be a roomy XL size. Knit from 100% Natural qiviut. I'm writing the pattern as i go along for 6 sizes. The yarns are from 3 different batches of Qiviut-there's only a slight variation from batch to batch but never the less...the variation is there so i'm trying to work out what will go where.....its an awful lot of work to rip out if i get it wrong !The rib is a 2x2 & is knit on 3.00mm's for 2.5'' inches, changed to 4.00mm for the body. All the back section is knit in plain stocking stitch....all the business will be in the front with cables and lacey bits & 3 buttons to close. I'm having musk ox horns deliverd soon so they can be sent off to an artist who can make buttons (i want to keep the qiviut theme True so the buttons should be made from real Musk ox horn)....your probably thinking how the heck can she get musk ox horns ? Well i buy them from the Inuit. Musk oxen are food for them people(there's no Walmart where they live ! I really wanted to knit this cardi in Raven Black but because i have to work in the mill or studio during the day i can only hand knit in the evening......knitting black in the evening is not good for my eyes so i settled on making the sweater in natural qiviut & then i will dye the completed sweater....if i have the nerve...... after all that work ! Can't wait to start the fronts.....stocking st is soooooo Boring.

And the back is finished....... I like this pic better as it shows the true color of qiviut

cabled Qiviut socks-take 2

2009-08-18T09:28:00.002-04:00

So,i have the 1st sock complete and have started the second sock on the straight needles.Still haven't got the pattern into the computer but i will get to that later today.The yarn is soft soft.These will be perfect house socks and i'm not giving them away or selling them.......it's time i kept something for me!

The cable design is knit on 4.5mm straights and then all the sts are transfer to 3.75mm D.P.N

The seam is on the inside leg so no ugly uneven sts are ever seen.The toe is finished in kitchener stitch and again it's perfect.When i come to write and sell the pattern for these....i'm guessing it will be 10 pages long......oooee that will be quite costly to mail or i may just make it an email pattern. So far it looks like it will take 3-4, 22 gram skeins to complete because i'm using lace weight qiviut and knitting with 2 strands together.I will get my daughter to model the socks when they are finished and try to get a better shot of the actual cabled sts.

I think the 1st picture taken outside shows up the cabled sts better!

cabled qiviut socks-50% Qiviut-50% Angora

2009-08-12T06:57:00.002-04:00

Sorry about the image quality..........the sun is flooding in my studio

100% Qiviut House socks

2009-08-10T06:57:00.005-04:00

And they are finished,i even finished the toe in kitchener stitch (for the 1st time ever)..........i was a right pussy when it came to knitting socks.......absolutely terrified at the thought of sock knitting.The toe is just so tidy and smooth.......i think i'm in love with sock knitting all over again.My next project will be a 50% qiviut with 50%angora.This time i will do a fancy cabled border for the rib of the socks and make it longer and more luxurious............where's my needles.

100% Qiviut socks-ribbed top

2009-07-31T06:48:00.001-04:00

These socks are just as soft as a cloud......pity they are not for me! I'm making them with a 4ply 100% qiviut and knitting on a 3.5mm D.P.N.I'm sure they will be super warm and comfortable to wear as ''house socks''.The rib is a nice k2,p2,and measures 7''inches long. By the time i'm done they will have used approx; 55 grams of qiviut........not bad yardage!

100% Qiviut king size bed cover

2009-07-12T08:02:00.002-04:00

I really enjoyed making this Blanket and would love to do it again.This was a custom made order going to a couple in Texas.......they will be warm! I machine knit the whole blanket in 3 sections and used my new linker machine to put it all together and added a sturdy rib around the whole perimeter and again used the linker......i love that machine.......it makes finishing so much easier and neater.Made from 100% pure qiviut the blanket measures 90''X 90'' and took 960 grams to complete.This was the largest project i have made todate from pure qiviut and it put a big dent in my yarn stash!

Adult male Musk ox

2009-07-10T12:32:00.001-04:00

Lace qiviut cap.......very cute and very easy!

2009-07-10T12:31:00.005-04:00

The Whispering Tundra Lace cap To knit......so easy and takes only 22 grams of either 100% qiviut or any of our 50% qiviut blends of 2 ply lace weight.

Close fitting and fits the average person.

TENSION:over rib section-8 sts=1''inch on 3.00mm circular needle

You will need:
160 yards of pure qiviut 2 ply lace yarn.

1 - 3.00 mm circular needle -max 40cm long

1 - set of 3.5mm D.P.N

10 stitch markers.

Point protectors.

Knit Rib Band/cuff:

Cast on 122 sts, join to work in the rnd, k1, (pm)= place marker st, p1, continue in k1, p1 until work measures 1.5',inches long.

Next: beg lace pattern, change to 3.5mm

RNDS 1-4: knit 4 rnds, on last rnd, k2tog-twice-(120 sts)

RND 5: sm, k1, *(k2tog)twice, (yf,k1) 3 times, yf, (sl1,k1,psso) twice, k1, pm(place a stitch marker), rep from* (adding st markers as you go) back to the beg.

RND 6: knit

***rep the last 2 rnds 3 times more, then rep all 12 rnds until work measures 6.5''inches long from beg or until 3 full pattern repeats are made.

Begin Top Shaping:

Next: knit 8 rnds in knit stitch and remove markers as you go (leave the beg st marker inplace)

Dec for top shaping:

1: *k8, k2tog ,rep from* to end.

2: And all alternate rows-knit.

3: *k7, k2tog, rep from * to end.

5: *k6, k2tog, rep from * to end.

7: *k5, k2tog, rep from*to end

9: *K4, k2tog, rep from * to end.(here you may want to change to D.P.N)

11: *K3, k2tog, rep from * to end.

13: *k2, k2tog, rep from * to end.

Break yarn leaving a 10''inch tail, double up yarn and draw through remaining sts,close and sew in any loose ends, hand wash and lay flat to dry or set Iron to silk setting and lightly steam !

The cap,s i knit always have an i-cord top sewn inplace and i love to add seed beads for a finishing touch.

Qiviut yarns.....wonderful colours to colour your life!

2009-07-10T12:29:00.000-04:00

Our new bright qiviut:Hunter green,Blue slate,Egytian Red(gorgeous),Purple,Raven Black,Bronze,Raspberry,Turkey Red,Bordeaux,Navy blue and Azalea.
All colours are GORGEOUS and BRIGHT.........with all the softness remaining!

step 2:processing qiviut fibers and yarns

2009-07-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

This photo shows how the raw fibre looks after picking.The fibre is put through the picker machine and shoots into the picker room through a hole in the wall.This is the stage we add our Anti-static blend......when the combination is just right all the black guard hairs fall effortlessly with little to no damage of the delicate musk ox down.

Step 1: Raw Qiviut(Musk ox)

2009-07-10T08:38:00.000-04:00

This is a tray of unwashed raw Qiviut fibre.The 1 step in the processing is to wash,condition and dry the fibres.At this stage the qiviut is full of thick black guard hairs.The next step is to pick the fibers with a picker machine......this opens the fibers so we can add our own special blend of Anti-static products.The anti-static solutions allow the safe removal of the guard hairs without damaging the precious fibers while they are being worked on the machines.

Cabled Qiviut mitts

2009-07-10T08:34:00.001-04:00

These mitts are just so soft and warm..........it's like putting your hand into a cloud..............the cabled band is knit first then the sts along the edge are picked up to knit the main part of the mitt............pattern requires 66 grams of 100% qiviut 2 ply lace weight or our 2ply lace weight qiviut blend..............to knit with two yarns together!

The Whispering Tundra Scarf

2009-07-10T08:00:00.001-04:00

''The Whispering Tundra Scarf''
Knit from 100% pure qiviut 2 ply lace weight yarn.This is one of the 1 st scarves i made and fell in love with the soft qiviut yarn.The simple design makes for knitting on the go!Made from a repeat lace stitch that you can easily memorise.
Supplies: 66 grams of lace weight qiviut-you can use our 'magical qiviut'' yarn or another brand!
1 pair of 3.75mm straight needles.
To begin: cast on 49 sts.
Rows 1-4 Knit.
5Th Row: (rs):k1,*(k2tog)twice,(yf,k1) 3 times,yf,(sl1,k1,psso)twice,k1;rep from * to end.
6th Row:purl.
Repeat rows 5 and 6 a total of 3 times more.Then rep all 12 rows until all your yarn is used up.Leave a small amount for the Bind/cast off.Sew in any loose ends.Apply beads as you like for your own personal touch!
ABBREVIATIONS: yf=yarn forward at front of needle.
(k2tog)Twice=knit the next 2 sts together twice.
(yf,k1)3 times=yarn forward at the front of needle(lay yarn over top of needle),then knit the next stitch.
(sl1,k1,psso)twice=slip the next st to opposite needle without knitting it,then knit the next st,then pass the lipped st over the stitch just worked,do this twice.
Look for more patterns and yarns at:www.cottagecraftangora.com