Three down, 12 to go!

 Last week I was commenting about the 15 projects screaming for my attention.  And then I started something new. 

This week i will claim three finished projects — the new cowl which is downstairs soaking in water and vinegar.  Every time I touched that project, my hands turned green.  My stitch markers all have a green tinge to them now.  Only a slight tinge, which will wesr off over time.  But the cowl itself?  Into the water it went, got swished, soaked, got swished.  And the water is still clear without any green.  How does that happen, I ask you.  Pictures next time, I promise. 

I also finished these little guys: 

These are a pattern called Gramps from Tin Can Knits.  This has become one of my favourite patterns, for a lot of reasons.  The sizes available range from newborn to adult 4X; the pockets add a nice touch; and finally who could possibly resist the elbow patches? These were created for the impending arrival of a set of twins, due in early April.  The shower was Sunday, so the need for secrecy is no longer present.

I knit the 6-12 month size, using Estelle Worsted.  I needed two skeins of the main colour and one for the contrast.  There was plenty of yarn left that I could have made hats as well, had time permitted.  In fact, I only needed the second skein to finish the last inch of the second sleeve on each sweater.

 Let me tell you about those buttons.  They are the world’s most expensive buttons.  I needed 10, so off to Fabricland I go.  Three packages of buttons in hand, and I recall I need some interfacing for the book I intend to make for my grand-daughter.  I have the panel already … so I find interfacing.  But wait!  Christmas fabric is on sale at 60% off.  Since I made stockings for my family, it has expanded seven times.  So I pick out seven different fabrics for new stockings.  Sadly, I did not find fabric for the top part of the stockings, but that doesn't NEED to specifically be Christmas fabric.  The young lady started measuring and cutting. I looked at the amounts adding up … bought a membership and saved over $100.  Now I can’t wait to get to my sewing machine.

In other news, the packages mailed to my sons have both arrived at their respective destinations.  They have been opened, to much joy and delight.  And the socks all fit the recipients,  Yay!  Christmas 2023 is mow officially put to bed.