March 2016 Knitting

What is on your needles?
I made a pair of socks a few years ago when I was working on my continental technique. My gauge was off a bit, so the socks never fit correctly. They were too large, and because of that they were not comfortable and I was always pulling them up.
So, here is a picture of me frogging my sock.


so that I can make another pair of socks!


This time I am making anklets and using a smaller size needle, so I am hopeful they will fit. I like the two circular needle method of knitting in the round, and I have two 24" size US#1 needles to work these socks.
Here is a tip: if you are frogging (rip it, rip it) some socks (or probably anything you plan to re-knit right away), do not roll the yarn into a ball. Just knit the yarn as it comes off the sock.

Ringed Slouch Hat

Ringed Slouch Hat
Joanne Neeley, Weedy Creek Yarn, Seward, NE

This is a basic hat pattern knit in the round on a circular needle and double pointed needles. The pattern starts with 2x2 ribbing and then alternates between rings of stockinette and reverse stockinette stitch. The decreases make a five point swirl pattern and end with an I-cord top knot.

Size: one size fits most.
Yarn: Splatter Dash, 100% Superwash Merino, 1 skein Fall Mountain (220 yds., 3.5 oz.)
Gauge: 6 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch
Needles: 16" US size 5 circular and set of size 5 double point needles
You will also need stitch markers and a tapestry needle.

Using the circular needles, cast on 100 stitches. Place a marker and join the stitches to knit in the round.
Ribbing rounds: *K2 P2* Repeat for round one. Repeat ribbing rounds for 1.5 inches.
Knit for 8 rounds.
Purl for 8 rounds.
Knit for 8 rounds.
Purl for 8 rounds.
Knit for 8 rounds.
Purl for 8 rounds.
Knit for 8 rounds.
Purl for 8 rounds. On last round place a marker after each group of 20 stitches.
Decrease rows. 
*Knit to two stitches before marker. K2 together.* Repeat around. (5 stitches decreased)
Repeat this round until 5 stitches remain. You will have to switch to double pointed needles after several of the decrease rounds have been knit.
Top Knot
Using the five remaining stitches and two of the double pointed needles make an i-cord approximately 5-6 inches in length. An i-cord is made in the following manner: knit 5. Do not turn. Slide the stitches back across the needle. Pull the working yarn tight and knit. Here is a video from Michele Hunter showing the technique. i-cord video . Work until about 5 inches have been completed. Bind off.