sarahdawnsdesigns

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

When knitting socks cuff down, a using stretchy cast-on is very important. Not only do you want the sock to make it past your heel, you also don’t want the cuff to be strangling your calves or ankles when you wear them.

Read more on the blog (and find links to tutorials for each type).

(Text for infographic below the cut)

Three stretchy cast-ons for sock knitting

01 German Twisted: A variation on the long tail cast-on, the German twisted cast-on is also known as the Old Norwegian cast-on, and is the gold standard for stretchy sock cast-ons. While it is a little fiddly, it’s well worth it and creates a nice edge for the cuff.

02 Long Tail: Another well-known option, the long tail cast-on is less stretchy than the German twisted cast-on, but is still a solid option for sock cuffs. This is my preferred method, but some people find they struggle not to cast on too tightly.

03 Knitted: Like the long tail cast-on, the stretchiness of this method is determined by how tightly you work the stitches as you cast them on. To ensure this cast-on is appropriately stretchy, make sure you work it with a needle that’s one size up from the size you plan to knit the rest of the sock with.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

So, I'm still looking for testers for the Buttoned Wrap Skirt; but, in a change of plans, the magazine I was publishing with isn't going forward with this issue (unfortunately, they've made the challenging decision to cancel the entire issue - it wasn't easy and I wish them well!)

However, I have confirmed that I'm still able to self-publish this pattern instead! All the (updated!) testing info is over on my blog, or at the testing call on Yarnpond!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

My cats have this meow that means "please come with me to fix this" after which they'll lead me to the problem in question, usually a empty (or 'empty') food bowl or a closed door they want open. They look at the 'problem', they look back at me, clear message.

What fascinates me is how this illustrates what they percieve as being in the realm of my 'power.' I control the food, I control the door, sure, but my cats love to sit on the balcony in the sun, and it has happened plenty of times that on a rainy day they come get me, go to the balcony and show me... the rain. "Please fix this" they say. "Please get rid of the wet"

"Silly kitty," I say, "I can't control the rain." I then walk into the shower and turn on the rain.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Welcome back to another test-knitting call; right now, I'm looking for testers for a Buttoned Wrap Skirt pattern.

This wrap skirt is designed to be the balance between the beautiful lines of lightweight summer skirts; and the warmer knitwear that’s required during a cold winter. It also adds buttons in addition to a tie – so, if you’re ever caught out on a windy day, there’s much less risk of a ‘wardrobe malfunction!’

The skirt has a sloping front edge, to add a distinct design element to an otherwise simple pattern. Contrast buttons along that edge are both functional and an aesthetic focal point.

This skirt is being tested on behalf of a magazine; so things are a touch different then my usual tests - check the post on Yarnpond, and, if you're still curious or have questions, don't hesitate to drop me a message!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

As a Knitter:

(A lot of this overlaps with Crochet, too)

Look for impossibly smooth stitches, or stitches that don't seem to have any definition to the yarn. Also, if you can 'read' knitting, apply that skill to the pattern pictures. Do you know (or can guess, or look up) what stitch that is? Also, since AI was trained on media, and a lot of mainstream media doesn't know the difference between knitting and crochet, look for crochet stitches in a knitting pattern (and vice versa, too!)

Do the yarn characteristics line up? What I mean by that is: does the pattern call for rustic wool but the images have the sheen of something like silk or rayon? This takes a bit of yarn knowledge, true, but it's worth it if you can spot it.

Look for various pattern images, - front, back, sides, etc. The more photos, the better (bonus if there's video!) And go into the reviews of wherever you're buying, as well, as you can often get clues from there.

Also, look at the actual pattern listing text. What are they telling you? Bare minimum, they should be telling you:

recommended yarn (with all colours used)

yardage/meterage (for all colours used)

yarn weight

sizing, (and not just a vague 'woman's small')

recommended needle sizes

a difficulty indication, and/or a list of techniques

If this isn't listed, that's a huge red flag for a bad-quality pattern - this is all stuff you should know before you hit 'buy'.

Also, as much as this advice hurts newcomers and smaller designers, I'd second the advice from elsewhere in the reblogs: to search the shop name/artist's name. Most fibre people I know have at least something else going on - a website, an IG account, a Youtube channel, something. You can get a pretty good idea if they're human by looking at other content they produce and where else they are on the web.

Finally: while yes, Digital Downloads are non-refundable on Etsy and many other marketplaces (which is part of how these shops are getting away with it), if you do accidentally buy an AI pattern and it doesn't make what is is supposed to make, you may be eligible to file a chargeback if you paid via your credit card. Because those 'products' (I feel bad calling them that, ugh) are, in fact, not as advertised, as they do not do what they are supposed to do.

Hey, if you do crafts (especially things like crochet, knitting, embroidery, etc), make sure to look up how to identify when a listing is AI generated. You do NOT want to waste money on an incredible looking kit or pattern that is physically impossible to make, especially if you're on sites like etsy hoping to support an actual artist.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Welcome to January (and it's 2025 - it feels like only yesterday it was 2019!).  This month, since it's already been so grey and dull here, I really felt the need for something cozy and comforting, so, the knit-along and sale pattern for the month of January is the MacAskill Scarf!

Don't worry, if you don't have the pattern, it's 50% off through the month of January during the Knit-Along!

Plus, if you finish a cowl by the end of January, (don't worry, WIP's accepted!) you have the chance to win a Gift Card from KnitPicks (US/Canada only at the moment, sorry!) or 4 patterns of your choice from my web shop!

Other cool stuff to know:

The stitch pattern is both charted and written.

The pattern has a large-print version for folks who need it (this version also works with screen-reading tech)

It comes in one size, but you can easily make it longer or shorter if you want (the fringe is also optional, if fringe isn't your thing!)

Exact sizing: 3.5 inches (34.5 cm) by 55 inches (139.5 cm), not counting the fringe. It can easily be made longer or shorter as desired.

It uses 548 yards (501 metres) of heavy worsted or aran-weight yarn.

The pattern description is non-gendered, because scarves don't have a gender, and it doesn't matter what gender you are, too - anyone can knit (and wear!) a scarf if they want one!

Sample was knit in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Superwash Bulky in "Fjord Heather" (link above is an affiliate link, I get a commission if you make a purchase, don't worry, there's no additional cost to you!)

If you're a Patron, you can download the pattern here

Anyway, you can find all the details about how to enter the Knit Along on the Pattern Page, and if you've got any questions, please, drop them on this post or in the Ask Box!

Good Luck, and Happy Knitting!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Need any notions or small tools? WeCrochet's Tool Sale runs until January 10th - get 25% off selected tools!

(Link is an affiliate link, meaning I get a commission if you make a purchase, don't worry, there's no additional cost to you!)

I'm seriously eyeing the little tapestry needle case, as I lost the top to my last case and now my tapestry needles are loose in my notions pouch, which is rather annoying!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Here’s a couple of tips for sewing buttons in knitwear:

The button should not be too close to the fabric to allow for the extra layer when buttoned.

You can place a toothpick between the button and the fabric, when sewing the button, to keep a distance of a couple of mm.

Wind the yarn a couple of times around the “stalk” of the button, before securing the thread.

You can sew a smaller button on the wrong side to avoid pulling and tearing the knitted fabric.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Quick reminder from the blog - the Falling Leaves Beach Bag Pattern is now available!

And yes, I am that weirdo who apparently published a summer pattern in winter. 🤷‍♀️

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

This week from the TechKnitting Blog: Needle Felting Tricks for Knitters!

I confess, I hadn't thought of any of these, but, the idea of needle felting to deal with long floats in colourwork is absolutely genius (and may be an alternative to the nearly-impossible 'intarsia in the round.') I've got an upcoming project I may have to try this out on!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Throwback to one of my early patterns that is already 11 years old - Zimtstern Mitts, fingerless gloves started from the thumb with surface crochet added as you go. The free knitting pattern is available from my blog:

https://knitting-and-so-on.blogspot.com/2013/11/zimtstern-mitts.html

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Alright, so it's announcement time - the Falling Leaves Beach Bag is available in my Web Shop, Etsy, Patreon and Ravelry, and . . . wait, why am I announcing a Beach Bag pattern in the middle of winter?

No, I haven't lost my mind (any more then I already have!), but I knew that with the pattern testing and editing done, if I didn't launch it now, my ADHD brain would absolutely forget about it, And it's not just a 'summer' pattern, I promise!

This crochet beach or market bag is designed to carry whatever you need in the summer months. Worked in Leaf Stitch with a base of double crochet, it is dense enough to keep things inside the bag, while still being airy and light enough to tuck in a purse!

Perfect for carrying an extra sun hat, water bottle, or even a shawl for cooler desert nights or, as a grocery bag you can keep tucked away for when you need it.

With a relatively simple pattern repeat that uses only double crochet, this project is a great step up project for a beginner who wants to make something other than scarves and dishcloths plus, the simple pattern repeat means it’s a great portable project, too!

This pattern has written instructions, and the stitch pattern is both written and charted. This pattern also has a large print/screen reader accessible version that only has the written instructions. It is written in US crochet terminology.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

This week's Patreon Behind-The-Scenes: Christmas Updates and Canada Post Strike Thoughts.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

The Cosmic Crochet Cowl pattern is still on sale for the Crochet-Along - it's pretty much what it says on the tin!

Please note that for the time being, sadly, you can't enter the CAL on the blog (I had issues with replies not going through and people not being notified), but you can still enter on Facebook, IG, or Discord!

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

Supported Spindles: A Beginner's Jumping Off Point

I'm trying to put together an easy mostly-video post of how to learn supported spinning for my partner, but of course am publishing it for everyone. It's starting from the context of having some drop spindle experience, so that's what I'm assuming for the purpose of this short guide. I'm including some text information for easier referencing as well.

First--you might ask "Why spin supported at all?" That's a fair question. It's not the tool for everybody, but it fills some niches that drop spindles (and any other tool) don't, so it may be what you're looking for without you even knowing it. If you're not familiar with the wide variety of spinning tools and methods that exist, you probably don't know a ton about supported spindles. They can have many shapes and sizes, but the one thing they all have in common is that they must be in a bowl (or a spinning spoon, or some other similar curved, smooth item) to spin.

Each method and tool of spinning is suited to one thing or another, and supported spinning is suited to the following:

1) thinner yarns. While it's entirely possible to spin fine yarns on drop spindles, wheels, or what have you, supported spindles are MADE for fine spinning, and largely cannot deal with spinning thicker yarns. This makes supported spinning great for people who want to spin for 3 or 4 ply sock yarns, lace (normal lace but also the truly fine lace like wedding ring shawls), etc. However, even if you don't tend to use thin yarns, there are larger supported spindles that can handle a thicker single, so the boundaries can vary a lot.

2) sitting down and/or being stationary. drop spindles are notable for being able to be used while walking or otherwise on the go, but supported spindles, since they must be in a bowl, are best used sitting, laying, or standing at a counter. I have read about them used walking via a spinning spoon tucked into the belt, but cannot attest to how practical that is myself. This makes supported spinning great for car/train/bus rides, waiting in line, watching tv, laying in bed, or anything like that.

3) small spaces. The most ergonomic way to spin supported is sitting comfortably cross legged or in a chair, with your elbows tucked in and your hands up. Your spinning is contained entirely to your lap, and (depending on your spinning style) you don't need to extend your arms out or do anything fancy. I've spun supported on a very cramped train without bothering the stranger sitting next to me all that much, which I've never been able to do with a drop spindle. For me this makes it much more suitable for public transit than drop spindles, but I think that comes down to how you use each tool rather than the tool itself.

4) low energy. Supported spinning doesn't take much energy, because you are doing very little moving (mostly your hands and forearms). It can be a great activity for when you're sick, or before bed when winding down. It's also worth trying if chronic illness or disability is stopping you from spinning on your other tools--I had to give up the drop spindle as my primary spinning tool because my shoulders are wrecked, and I can only treadle a spinning wheel on good days, but I can usually spin supported no matter what. (If supported isn't accessible for you, an espinner is your next best bet).

5) cool sound. Can't overstate this one. A wooden spindle in a wooden bowl sounds so good. Skip the metal or ball bearing tip if you want to hear it.

Without further ado, here's some videos I've compiled that covered things I thought were helpful. As a disclaimer, I seem to learn exclusively by doing things myself, so if these videos don't work for you, try looking up "supported spinning for beginner" or something similar. There are a lot of videos, and almost every single one has a different technique. Anyway, best first:

Video: Supported Spinning Tutorial by Lori Rhone (link)

Key things from this video:

get used to flicking the spindle without any fiber (just as you should with any spinning tool). try forming an O with your fingers to trap the spindle tip so it has something to fall against, flick as close to the tip as you can manage, etc.

they show a good variety of spinning bowls, especially objects that aren't intended to be spinning bowls (salt cellars, egg bowls, etc). if your spindle spins well in it, it's a spinning bowl. try out lots of stuff if you're having trouble finding a good one.

good posture and positioning--stay comfortable and keep your arms close to you, try to stop yourself from doing weird contortions, etc.

they discuss the importance of building a balanced cop, and show on another spindle how the cop they built maintains the general shape of the empty spindle. this isn't necessary, but it's good practice and certainly good to keep in mind. with drop spindles the added weight of the yarn is usually what determines a full spindle first, but with supported spindles the shape and size of the cop (or your own patience for spinning endless fine yarn) can be what does it instead.

+++

Video: The Basics of Supported Spindle by Amy King (link)

Key things from this video:

the variety of different shapes of supported spindles (there are even more shapes than what they've shown as well)

that you need to pair spindles and bowls--they don't all work with each other equally well or at all (purple--don't worry, I tested the spindle with the bowl I sent you, they like each other)

another method to park and draft on supported spindles, which is essentially the same as on drop spindles

their sweater is fantastic

+++

Video: Supported Spindles--a few tips for beginners by Nikolai Meriadoc (link)

Key things from this video:

if you have a good bowl to spin in but it's unstable, try putting it in another bowl or nestled in a blanket or something else. this can stabilize it a lot.

pre-drafting very finely can help. i forgot to go into it in the video but multiple passes where you go finer each time is usually the way to go if starting from roving or another commercial prep, in my opinion. you could also diz your fiber if you're going for a more worsted prep.

picking a fine fiber like merino, bfl, rambouillet, etc. can help you draft finer as well.

the angle at which you hold your fiber/yarn is important. it should be almost vertical while spinning, and horizontal while winding on.

+++

Hopefully that can get you all started ! There are also articles on the subject although I didn't include any as they weren't relevant for who I'm making this for, so be sure to look into them if that's something that would be helpful for you.

[sarahdawnsdesigns]

If you've ever knit a shawl with a garter stitch border, you've probably come across the Garter Tab Cast On. . . and I, at least, was very confused the first time I saw these instructions.

Enter Knotions Magazine to the rescue, with a tutorial that explains this cast on step by step!