My Turquoise Project

So, here is what I am doing with my hand dyed yarn. I tried out a few patterns, but since I don't usually knit with tonal/variegated yarns, it took a while to find something I was happy with. And, I think this really looks great, as the colors are interesting, plus the pattern really brings out the softness and squishiness of a DK weight merino.
This shawl might remind you of the Icelandic Sunrise Shawl, and at first, that was what I tried to knit. But, the purling part was not coming smooth to me and it was a bit of a struggle. I admit, I did not try the Norwegian Purl method, I went for a more easy option. So, my version doesn't have a single purl stitch in it, and each cluster has 5 stitches instead of 4. The effect though is very similar, shawl will be very very warm, it looks interesting and has a great texture. One minor problem - I ran out of yarn. Yes, I used both skeins and I still have a couple rows I'd like to do for finishing and a FRINGE. I think this one really needs a fringe for a nice, finished look. So, I am up to a challenge to repeat my dyeing adventure... we'll see how that goes...

Crochet Earrings with Silk

While working on big projects, sometimes taking a break is a really good thing. I needed a diversion, so yesterday, while looking at my yarn stash, I came up with this brilliant idea to use up some of that beautiful, multicolored silk I have..... after a few tries I ended up with these:
Granny Square Earrings:

 

The good old granny square looks really nice in shiny silk. Add some sterling silver ear wires, and - voila!

Japanese Star Earrings:

This is a really good way to try nice, small patterns!

Leaf or teardrop style earrings:

Use the "crab" stitch for a neat finish!

And simple round lacy earrings:

They are all available at my etsy shop: http://www.silverliningknits.etsy.comThe biggest challenge today was taking the photos, since we have not seen sun for a while here and light is very tricky.....
Cheers,
Inese, SLK