When I picked this up again I couldn't remember why I hadn't completed it - there were only about 3 inches left to knit. Well, I soon remembered. The Estonian Lullaby Baby Blanket was an unfinished project for so long because of the fiber - cotton. I usually knit with yarn that has a least a percentage of wool in it. The cotton is really unyielding and hard on my hands. I found that when I picked this up again in August, I could only work about an inch before I had to put it down again and give my hands a rest.
I love the color - a mint green that reminds one of spring, Easter, new growth after a long, cold winter - that does not photograph well in the autumn light. The pattern wasn't difficult. I'd like to try this pattern again - perhaps in a washable wool or other baby-friendly fiber that is easier on the hands and better suited for the "Scalloped Lace Border" option on the pattern. I'm glad I didn't attempt it with the cotton.
In the meantime, I've got enough of the cotton for another blanket - so I've started the 2nd one for another friend whose baby is due in December. Maybe with a deadline the 2nd blanket won't take a year to complete.
However, the cats were doing their part to slow up progress.
On the homefront, I have my camera back. Funny how lost I felt without it - that's the fault of having a blog, I think.
The new furnace has been installed - and what a difference. The old furnace was high efficiency for 15 years ago. The new furnace keeps the house feeling very warm when set at temperatures in the low 60's. At this temperature with the old furnace, you would shiver if you sat near any window, feeling the drafts - and it's impossible in this house to avoid sitting near a window. I don't know how much of a cost savings we shall see in our heating bills this winter.
Maybe enough for a few extra yarn purchases?
1 comment:
What a classy baby blanket - well worth the sore hands!
Come to Ally Pally very soon -we'd love to see you again.
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