Dear Knitting;
I have a terrible confession to make, or, I guess what I mean is that I think you're going to think it was terrible, but it really wasn't. I figure I should tell you because you're probably going to find out anyway. The truth is, I've had an affair. No - nix that. Not an affair. I had... an experience. An... interval. An episode. Maybe I was drinking. I don't remember - and no matter what anyone says, I didn't plan it. I was minding my own business at knit night (and see? That's the first sign that it wasn't my fault. KNIT night. You don't expect to be blindsided there) when Denny gave me a loom. (See that too? It's not like I went looking for it. I was sitting there, minding my own business and whammo. This Schacht Cricket loom jumps on my lap and ... wait! It's Beth's fault ! She's the one who sent the loom with Denny to give to me and the two of them planned it and I... I was just sitting there.
Now, I might have stood a chance, but the thing was just so... ready. It was already assembled, its bobbins were full - for crying out loud... it was warped already. It sat there, just so simple, so straightforward, and I fell down. I thought it was going to be innocent. I thought we were just going to hang out, you know? I thought that it was really ok. You know, I thought that it didn't matter if I just talked to some other yarncraft. I'm in the yarn industry, you know? I was just going to hang out a bit, see what this weaving thing was all about. I threw the shuttle a few times, and...
The next thing I knew, we were at home together, and I was weaving and weaving. The shuttle went back and forth and I beat every row with the heddle and, heaven help me, when I ran out of yarn I went and got more and....
and I ripped back that huge sock and wound the yarn on the bobbin and...
I made a scarf.
It was the loom's fault. It's just so easy, and ... fast.. and it uses up a lot of yarn quickly... really quickly - I mean, I used up that whole ball of sock yarn in a couple of hours and Knitting, you have to admit it, you and I have never been able to get it together for a "quickie".
I'm not saying that's wrong, I mean, there are other things that we have, things that are more important than speed. We have intimacy, and history and ... well, I'm not going to pretend that there haven't been problems. It was hard for me to get over that time that you thought it would be funny to mess up the hat the night before Christmas, but hell. Every craft makes mistakes and I don't hold it against you. I mean, I love you Knitting, and we've been though a lot together. I just want you to know that the thing with the loom didn't mean anything to me baby... nothing.
Love,
Steph
(Ps, even though I said I was over it, I was really upset about the gauge thing on the sock. I thought you should know. )
Posted by Stephanie at May 1, 2009 2:55 PMOoooh!!! I LOVE it. I'm sure the knitting will forgive you.
Posted by: Wendy at May 1, 2009 2:57 PM(Speaking as one who has a loom ...) Oh, Stephanie. It is a slippery slope. And it is greased. There is no turning back. It's the speed, you see, and the fact that the loom is so easy to warp. Just wait -- you'll see.
Posted by: Carol at May 1, 2009 2:59 PMSo beautiful!
Posted by: Susie at May 1, 2009 2:59 PMWhatever happened to fidelity?
Posted by: Jamie at May 1, 2009 3:00 PMThat's a pretty awesome first attempt at a new yarncraft. Wow! (Are you sure it meant nothing? I'm not saying you should divorce knitting, but maybe an open relationship is the way to go.)
Posted by: Me at May 1, 2009 3:00 PMBut the scarf is stunning. I forgot to add that.
Posted by: Jamie at May 1, 2009 3:00 PMRepeat after me...It's fiber, it's ok. I really haven't been cheating on you yarn...
The shawl is gorgeous-
What a beautiful scarf! How long is it?
I've been thinking about this, and if I ever go to Webs, I may throw a shuttle myself...
I've seen weaving recommended as a way to burn through an oversized stash quickly. Be careful what you wish for...
The scarf is lovely, but that's because it was made with lovely yarn.
My sole acquaintance with a loom was a huge, fancy one that I could never afford, so I consider myself immune.
Posted by: Marina Stern at May 1, 2009 3:06 PMI wove for 10 years, it's wonderful, and a nice *sideline* to knitting. There's just nothing like the total instant gratification of grabbing some needles and yarn and knitting.
Once you've warped the loom a few times, you'll know what I mean...
Don't worry, your knitting (and probably spinning wheel) know this, and will wait patiently!
Yes, like knitting, it seems so innocent...until you find yourself designing patterns and designs in your head, thinking ahead to all of the wonderful things you can create, all of the people you can create for...oh yes, it is a slippery slope!
Posted by: danana at May 1, 2009 3:06 PMQuick turn around, I'd say! What a great way to vanquish the giant sock syndrome of aka GSS.
I'd be careful of friends bringing gifts, but then again... The colors are even more beautiful in the scarf.
So pretty! I'm falling...good thing I don't have a loom or I might now get back up.
Posted by: stlmamaknits at May 1, 2009 3:07 PMWelcome to the dark side. We have kool-aid.
Posted by: Melissa at May 1, 2009 3:08 PMHey, those selvages look great!
And, would you stop it already? I've been resisting mightily the Cricket loom's allure . . . but my resistance is faltering. I need dishtowels, and store-bought ones are so. cheap.
Augh . . .
Posted by: Annalea at May 1, 2009 3:10 PMuh oh! slippery slope... next, it'll be crochet.
Posted by: beth at May 1, 2009 3:11 PMNot you too?!?
Wendy over at knitandtonic was posting her woven items the last few months.
Amazed at the speed you can produce truly beautiful items!
Have managed to resist spinning, weaving, needle felting and any number of non fiber crafts so far. Please, I was counting on your good example ro keep me on the straight and narrow.
Wait... what good example am I thinking of?????
Oh my. How lovely. I want.
Posted by: emily at May 1, 2009 3:12 PMWhhoooohoooo, snagged a big one!! We've got you now, my pretty!!
Posted by: Jane G. at May 1, 2009 3:12 PMNow wait just a minute...I remember seeing you flirt with Syne's loom a couple of months ago. You looked all dazed and glow-y afterwards!
Posted by: adiel at May 1, 2009 3:13 PMThat gorgeous scarf doesn't look like "nothing..."
Posted by: alison at May 1, 2009 3:13 PMIt's beautiful. The sock deserved it; it was definately his time to go.
Posted by: Katie W at May 1, 2009 3:15 PMYou can make dishcloths??? Ohhh.....I didn't know that. I really need dishtowels to......I could make white ones with red borders.......damn.
Posted by: Carolyn at May 1, 2009 3:17 PMI'll take this as a warning. I'll not sit near friends I know to have looms in their possession, I'll not wander too close to the weaving displays in the craft fairs, I won't gaze upon and touch those hanging woven garment displays. I'll resist, dear Knitting, never fear my Stash, you're safe.
Posted by: Joan in WA at May 1, 2009 3:17 PMwhat carol said!
Posted by: tarri at May 1, 2009 3:21 PMThe owner's of my LYS also make weaving looms and rumor has it that weaving is the answer to stash management. Too much sock yarn? Weave it! I've maintained my distance so far...but once you start it is a slippery slope.
Posted by: Barbara A.M. at May 1, 2009 3:21 PMThink of it as a way to spread the spinning around...so your three yarn crafts can have something in common.
Other than wool, of course.
Posted by: cutehair at May 1, 2009 3:22 PMObviously that yarn was meant to be a scarf. As for your dalliance with weaving, it will never be your be all end all. You can't just tuck a loom into your purse and go.
I have been able to ignore the call of spinning. I learned embroidery and needlepoint and crocheting in elementary school. I love knitting, it is the craft that makes me happy, but I am having a challenging time not investigating weaving far more thoroughly. The simple beauty of weaving has me entranced. I understand your dalliance, I am sure knitting will forgive you.
Posted by: PICAdrienne at May 1, 2009 3:22 PMMy dearest Stephanie- you have so disappointed me -you YARN HARLOT YOU- how long have we been together you and i. I have alway been there for you -haven't i!! In all shades of a rainbow. In all shapes and sizes. I know we have had our fights - we have been at Opposite sides - but haven't we always settled our arguments and come together with love and adoration for each other!!??? how then could you turn your back at me. And Frogging a friend of mine without a second thought!! I know you two were having problems but you guys could have worked it out - BUT no you had to get hasty. I do not want to hear your excuses about Denny and Beth and all - If they asked you to jump from the Empire State building would you -- NO NO you would not - but just look at what you did to me left mee high and dry with only my sadness and tears - AND to top it all off you did not leave me any beer>> - Just remember that pay backs are hell- all the fiber
Posted by: kristin- aka kristins kraze at May 1, 2009 3:23 PMAh, yes, that first drag of the shuttle across the warp...
I love to knit, no doubt, but weaving is a completely different satisfaction. It's also a wonderful way to use handspun yarn that isn't *quite* up to knitterly standards. What doomed me was the realization that I could make my own upholstery fabrics. Good luck!
Posted by: Adam at May 1, 2009 3:24 PMI think this is a fabulous way to deal with having too many knitting projects for the amount of knitting time you have available: start a new craft. Makes perfect sense to me. (Excuse me while I go count my unfinished quilting projects)
Posted by: Joanne at May 1, 2009 3:24 PMSo you're all saying I shouldn't go retrieve the loom that has been sitting in my father's basement all these years softly calling my name? :) Unless of course I'm prepared to be corrupted...
Posted by: Joyce at May 1, 2009 3:24 PMOh Stephanie- this is so okay! When I read the first part I thought you were going to tell us you were crocheting!!!
Posted by: Jessi at May 1, 2009 3:24 PMwell, you are the Harlot, after all....
and you can't take the weaving on a plane, really, so you'll always have the travel knitting....
Its ok I binned weaving for knitting years ago on my constructed textile degree course- it'll understand! And I am sure knitting will take you back I mean you two time it with spinning anyway!
Posted by: Nicole at May 1, 2009 3:25 PMBut now it's all so clear, why that sock just didn't work out! That yarn was meant for a woven scarf, not knitted footwear. It knew its destiny, even if you didn't.
Posted by: suburbancorrespondent at May 1, 2009 3:25 PMI think there's a 12-step program for this.
Posted by: Diane M. at May 1, 2009 3:25 PMOh my...that is gorgeous. Please don't tell my husband, but I might just want to try weaving now....
Posted by: Deena at May 1, 2009 3:25 PMWell, at the very least you know that a loom will never fit in your travel bag for the bus....
Posted by: Beth at May 1, 2009 3:28 PMNot long ago I went into my local spinning/weaving store to look at the Cricket. Somehow, a Ladybug ended up in my living room instead. What is it with these bugs?
Posted by: Sandra at May 1, 2009 3:31 PMSure, weaving is fun but wait until you warp 190 ends of 200 and find out you have to start over because you goofed clear back in the middle! Frogging warp is not so much fun ...... knitting is lots easier!
Posted by: Carol in Colorado at May 1, 2009 3:31 PMI'm sure the knitting will forgive you. I mean weaving is like a distnat cousin, right? ...Oh...well, then...
The scarf looks beautiful thought. I especially love the color.
Darn it all, now I might have to give this weaving thing a try.
Nice scarf Stephanie!! It's not hard to get the weaving bug when you like fibre.
Posted by: Anita at May 1, 2009 3:36 PMFortunately for me, weaving holds little appeal to me.
Stop laughing!
Honesty, that scarf looks tre bon and chic. I'm sure knitting will forgive you, after it slapped you in the face with that very bad sock.
Posted by: Joey B. at May 1, 2009 3:37 PMAhhh... I love it when people get hooked on weaving! Luckily for me, though, I was a weaver long before I was a knitter, so knitting can have no complaints in my house - even with the bulk of my so-called knitting yarn ends up being woven.
Syne will be so proud of you!
Posted by: benita at May 1, 2009 3:40 PMI'm *SO* glad the sumo wrestler sock found new life as a woven scarf! The gigantic sock was distressing me from afar. :D
Posted by: Cat at May 1, 2009 3:40 PMOh dear. Have you tried an inkle loom? Cute and compact, creates lovely little ribands of color, or colour, if you will, so quick and easy to warp up.... I'm now torn constantly between weaving and knitting, and I see you will be, too.... It's a rough life, I tell you, a rough life.
Posted by: Lisa at May 1, 2009 3:42 PMYeah, I fell hard too. And I wasn't going to buy a loom, but then I won a draw at work for virtually the EXACT amount the loom would cost. Who was I to toy with karma?
I bought it, and I weave on it.
Oooo, poor baby. You are so sunk. You think you have a stash? You think you have an enormous amount of yarn? You have NOTHING when it comes to weaving. I call it "Feeding the loom" because it moows down like a Michael Phelps before a meet. I can go through an entire Tote of yarn in a couple of hours... and that's just on the small loom. When I warp the big loom, I can go through the entire stash in a week. Of course warping the big loom takes a month or more, and bores me out of my mind, so I've only done it 5 or 6 times in the 15 years I've had it.
But the little loom, I use that, maybe, 25 times a year... it doesn't need to be warped, it warps itself. It's called a triloom, and there is a yahoo group for them.
They make shawls, Steph... and you can put knit lace borders on them. SO COOL. And fast... and relatively cheap, when you look at what you paid for your spinning wheel :)
Come to the dark side... :)
Posted by: Mary Peed at May 1, 2009 3:45 PMI get it. The solution to having too many projects on the needles is to start weaving. No needles involved. Good solution!!
Posted by: gail at May 1, 2009 3:46 PMLMAO.... yaaaya, "just" an affair, you're so in trouble. My "just an affair" now means two big floor looms and a rigid heddle loom in the living room. Welcome to the dark side, we have fast-growing projects... and cookies! :-)
Posted by: Stef at May 1, 2009 3:50 PMWoo hoo! Welcome to the warp side, Steph.
Posted by: Sarah at May 1, 2009 3:50 PMDear Stephanie,
I... I forgive you. It was only a moment of weakness. Sure weaving seems easy but it's not. That loom took advantage of you, all warped up like a tart. Really! If you knew how much prep work there was, you'd have sprinted back to my swift and winder.
That loom was just trying to lure you in. You don't believe all those moving parts will last, do you? Sure they seem functional now but just wait until one of those heddles breaks. Won't my needles look so good then?
Steph, baby, maybe this was a good thing. We should talk about the dangers of weaving: its tabbies, twills, and brocades. I know we've had our troubles but those are nothing compared to the tangles you can get into with weaving. Knitter, are you sure those "friends" weren't just crying for help?
I'm sorry about the sumo sock. I tried to warn you but... well that yarn was no good anyway. It deserved to have its color watered down with ecru warp threads.
Come on back. I believe in you, in us. When your hands are on my needles, knitting and purling, we're a symphony in motion. No amount of weaving can match what we've got. I have a lacy shawl for you.
love,
Knitting
So after it was all over, did the loom smoke a cigarette and ask if it was "good for you"?????
Posted by: Bo at May 1, 2009 3:54 PMHow funny - it happened to a friend during one of knitting guild meetings. We had a little demo, and wham! She started with a school girl crush. She started with just signing up for the same classes as the loom. Now she is all stalkerish - she kidnapped a loom, paid for the services of another - they somehow procreated and now has a little cricket.
She is writing sonnets about her love of weaving that make me squirm in my seat. I fear it may be too late for you as well.
Posted by: Ewe-niss at May 1, 2009 3:55 PMWhy do I have the sense that RachelH was somehow involved in this little "accident"?
Posted by: Presbytera at May 1, 2009 3:57 PMIt's ok, you can just tell knitting that you were on a break, so it doesn't count :)
Posted by: Krista at May 1, 2009 3:59 PMHahaha!!!!! What happens at Knit Night STAYS at Knit Night.
Posted by: Brittany Newberry at May 1, 2009 4:02 PMHooray! I've been weaving for years. It's a nice compliment to the knitting (you might want to tell it that) and they go together really well (you could tell it that too).
Anyone for a threesome?
Posted by: Andrea at May 1, 2009 4:05 PMfabulous way to gobble up stash! and a very nice scarf to boot. keep the relationship.
Posted by: Kati at May 1, 2009 4:06 PMNow you're caught! You have gone farther into the fiber wormhole and there's no going back. You'll come out the other side in a new galaxy. What shape is that sun, a fluffy sheep or a cotton ball? And the planets are aligned in a pattern. Is that a twill for weaving?! There are signs of intelligent life on the planets. The fields appear to be entrelac. Even the small creatures are affected. The spiders spin lace as their webs. It just has to be gathered and washed.
But, alas, it was only a wonderful dream and now that you've awakened, there's the laundry and dirty dishes and the cooking still to do. How wonderful that we can go to that wonderful place whenever we choose, be it knitting, spinning, weaving, lacemaking, felting, etc.
Aaaand now I'm checking out cricket looms at some of my favorite online stores. Probably I should touch some looms at NH sheep and wool festival next weekend too...
I've wanted to try weaving for awhile, so this isn't a shock to me!
Posted by: Becky in VT at May 1, 2009 4:07 PMWelcome to the dark side, we have cookies.
And when you start buying yarn by the cone, leftovers from weaving can move into the knitting stash.
Nice job Beth & Denny!!! Another one for the dark side - whahahahaha!
Posted by: Kim at May 1, 2009 4:09 PMDon't worry- -sometimes a cigar really is just a cigar. I think this is why I've resisted learning to spin: I'm afraid once I start my fiber addiction will just get completely out of hand and I'll have a big bin of roving to go with my big bin of yarn. Maybe when i'm done with medical school and residency...
Posted by: catherine at May 1, 2009 4:12 PMDo you remember the Claw? Whose fault was that? The crochet work that the Claw forced on you, knitting was responsible for that fall from grace. Knitting and spinning have a lot to answer for. There is no shame in straying when knitting led you down this path to begin with. You had to do something with that sock, now, didn't you. Were you supposed to trust knitting, again? I think not. Knitting will just have to get over it.
Posted by: Dixie at May 1, 2009 4:14 PMHa, been there done that. I've been through the sock yarn drawer with a 10 dent heddle and the huge pile of left over sock yarn is now very much smaller.
It's very good with handspun too.
Posted by: Caroline M at May 1, 2009 4:14 PMYou are dead to me, you hear me? Dead to me.
I don't think I can even look you straight in the eye ever again. (Not that you could before you being shorter than me n'all, and we rarely actually see each other anyway, but that's not the point really. What was I saying? Oh yeah....dead.
No don't cry, I wasn't serious. Really you can flirt with any kind of fiber arts you choose to.*cough*tramp*cough*
No really it's okay, I'm not seeing what the big deal is but okay, if you say so, whatever.
Fidelety really isn't something one would expect from a Harlot anyway.
*cough*fiber-floozy*cough*
I have always wanted try weaving but was afraid it would lead me to drooling over looms that would take over my house. I love your scarf and that look could sneak into my house without my husband noticing...
Posted by: shelle at May 1, 2009 4:18 PMI don't see a problem. It's yarn, isn't it? It's not like you turned your back on wool. Besides, I sew, embroider a little and crochet as well as knit. If my knitting wants to go into a snit about it, let it.
Posted by: Carla at May 1, 2009 4:19 PMWe'll see what you're posting this time next year to see if it's just a fling. It's still yarn so your stash shouldn't have an issue with this new relationship. Your needles however may get dangerous. DPN's can be deadly when riled. Keep an eye on them if you fall farther into the warp side.
Posted by: Alice in the Heartland at May 1, 2009 4:21 PMLovely scarf! I'm in love with the colors and the texture, so nice. Thanks for the smile your blog just gave me - I needed it today. You just made my afternoon!
Posted by: Rachel at May 1, 2009 4:25 PMHmmmm.... My dad has a loom. We didn't have a dining room for months. Consider yourself lucky, knitting you don't have to give up very much stash space.
Posted by: Meg at May 1, 2009 4:25 PMHmmmm.... My dad has a loom. We didn't have a dining room for months. Consider yourself lucky, knitting you don't have to give up very much stash space.
Posted by: Meg at May 1, 2009 4:25 PMBeautiful, but I am really trying to resist weaving!
Posted by: knittergran at May 1, 2009 4:26 PMWow, you just totally squashed my I-don't-need-a-cricket-I-have-a-ladybug ... (oh my gosh - they would be so cute together) ...-and-lots-of-knitting-and-even-some-crochet-and-a-sewing-machine-so-I-shouldn't-get-into-another-craft defense (Plus I love those boat shuttles and really want to get some even though I haven't got loom at all).
Sigh ... I wonder where I could store it?
Posted by: peanut at May 1, 2009 4:26 PMI have been hearing weaving's siren call louder & louder over the last couple of months. That looks like the perfect solution - small, portable & relatively inexpensive (just in case I don't like it after all.)
Posted by: Donna at May 1, 2009 4:31 PMWe are all weak at some point, but yours is beautiful!
Posted by: Patricia at May 1, 2009 4:35 PMWow. That massive sock turned into a beautiful scarf - and so quick! I guess knitting better keep on its toes or you'll be looking for a new partner....
Posted by: Amy at May 1, 2009 4:39 PMThe scarf is so pretty and sophisticated. Socks, God love 'em, are definitely NOT sophisticated. Oh, but now what will you do? Are your knitting days behind you?
Posted by: Caroline at May 1, 2009 4:39 PMThe problem with weaving I found (I've tried all the fiber arts, I think) is warping the loop. What a tedious painful process! It would be great if you could just take it back for a "fill-up" like w/ gas and have them give you a warped loom every time. Man, that would bring me back to weaving, I think! Thanks for sharing that.
Posted by: SallyA at May 1, 2009 4:44 PMKnitting is going to get you back for this.
When you least expect it, and when it's really bad timing.
Knitting is going to bring this up in a crowded room.
And you'll know you deserve it.
AND here I thought you were one of the LOYAL ones. Boy, looks can be deceiving!
GRIN
I hope when you wear you scarf you'll remember the good ole' days...
Posted by: twistedinstitches at May 1, 2009 4:48 PMClearly you need to consider a polyamorous yarncraft relationship.
Scarf looks fab. I'm so jealous.
Posted by: Adri at May 1, 2009 4:48 PMWell, you are a harlot, after all. Lots of people are in an open relationship -- just view weaving as your lover on the side. I'm sure the knitting will understand.
Lovely scarf.
Posted by: Bethany H. at May 1, 2009 4:53 PMThose selvages look great. I am deeply envious.
And the sumo sock yarn makes a beautiful scarf.
To those who are mentioning weaving's relative lack of portability? Look up "card weaving".
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be making plans to ogle the Toika looms the next time I'm at WEBS.
Posted by: Denise at May 1, 2009 4:54 PMBeautiful Scarf! Congrats on the new, uhm, passion. I'm thinking something in Red with perhaps a large 'A' on it should be next in the queue.:)
Posted by: ~CbyC~ at May 1, 2009 4:54 PMWeaving is a good stash buster alright.
Since weaving is not as portable or as travel friendly as knitting, I don't think your knitting needs to worry too much about your small diversion. After all, you can't very well weave in line at the market or the bank. Well, you could, but it would be a lot more trouble and probably garner a lot more "crazy woman" stares than knitting.
Posted by: fibercrone at May 1, 2009 4:55 PMThanks a lot!!! I'm trying to ignore my interest in weaving. I'm already a quilting and knitting addict. I'm going to go stick my head in the sand.
Posted by: Maria at May 1, 2009 4:56 PMBut it's such a cute little loom--it looks so innocent. It's totally not your fault. Anyone would have been fooled.
Posted by: Ruth at May 1, 2009 5:00 PMWeaving is very addictive. On a big loom - first part is very physical & satisfying then once it's warped? Wonderful rhythmic, meditative motions. I love it. It can definately coexist nicely with knitting.
Posted by: Staci at May 1, 2009 5:06 PMI started in fiber with weaving(well if you don't count the sewing and embroidery my mom & grandma taught me) I love it and will someday go back to it. Someday when I can afford a loom. *sigh*
As others have said it looks lovely.
Posted by: earthami at May 1, 2009 5:08 PMI love the scarf. The yarn itself was very pretty, but the scarf has some lovely subtleties that never would have shown as nicely in a pair of socks.
I am envious of your loom experience ;)
Posted by: Lynette at May 1, 2009 5:08 PMI just have to laugh (ok the truth is is that I laugh at all your posts!) but I really really had to laugh at this one. I was a weaver before I was a dyer...and quite a few years before I was a knitter and I'm thinking..."uh oh you are toast now girl! You'll never end this relationship no matter how you try to. You'll say, "that's enough I'm not going to do it again" and then the next morning or weekend you'll find yourself in a room with your loom, hoping no one will find out with mixed feeling of anxiety, pleasure and betrayal. Feeling betrayed that knitting let you slip away even for a moment, and feeling like you betrayed knitting by enjoying the weaving even if only for a moment." I know I really shouldn't laugh at the situation you are in but really...it is kinda funny! Happy weaving/knitting!
Posted by: trish at May 1, 2009 5:10 PMYou HAVE to read the Keyboard Biologist's blog. She has falled to the same evil and is even taking weaving classes now!
Posted by: Holly at May 1, 2009 5:15 PMThose Schacht Crickets are tricksy, seductive little looms. It totally wasn't your fault.
Posted by: Anna-Liza at May 1, 2009 5:16 PMBTW the Key Board Biologist's blog is about knitting, at least is USED to be before WEAVING. Check it out here:http://www.keyboardbiologist.net/knitblog/
Posted by: Holly at May 1, 2009 5:18 PMHa! I am a Weaver who succumbed to the lure of KNITTING. My looms sit, getting dusty while I enroll in Sock Club after Sock Club.
Just wait until you find out what kind of weaver you are: the kind that collects YARN or the kind that collects EQUIPMENT (there are many kinds of looms, and gadgets, oh my! the gadgets...).
Posted by: Lili at May 1, 2009 5:23 PMOh Stephanie, it starts to innocently...for me, a need to use up 3 school credits, why not try a weaving class for fun? Now, 10 years later, the giant loom looms over the living room. Welcome to a whole new level of guilt!
Posted by: Tracie at May 1, 2009 5:25 PMWho expects a harlot to be monogamous?
Posted by: Norma at May 1, 2009 5:26 PMA year ago I had one loom and I had had for ten years. It was great for stacking boxes of yarn on and looked great in my knitting studio. Today my knitting studio has become my weaving studio and there are three looms. The dining room has become the weaving studio annex with one loom. I'm totally hooked on weaving. Yes you can burn through a lot of stash (and buy more)! Ah, back to the loom!
Posted by: holly at May 1, 2009 5:27 PMCareful . . . there's a knitting machine leering at you from the corner table...
Posted by: justD at May 1, 2009 5:31 PMYou go girl! That is a scarf for which you do not have to make excuses. The ex-sock yarn looks great!!
Posted by: Betty in Texas at May 1, 2009 5:31 PMNow look - I already told you about this, Stef, after the whole 'shawl that jazz' fiasco where you had us all dropping everything and knitting shawls all over the place.
And now, this morning, I have put aside my crazy rampage of squares for A4A/Kay projects and cast on my second Shawl That Jazz, and now you.... you.... you mess with me again!
I already hinted about a new top part for my birdbath, for Mothers' Day, after the old one mysteriously stayed in the moving truck when we last relocated. Then I fell off the 'we're economizing' wagon and bought, on sale, a beautiful le Creuset stockpot, and then I had a little accident on WEBS - I just can't add a loom to the wishlist, I can't. But seriously? $135 bucks for the potential to make that beautiful scarf and lots of friends for it? Seriously? I DO have a lot of very thin yarn....... I could weave from stash........
Do you see what you've done? You're an enabler of the very worst kind! If my husband finds out it was you....he's already threatening to block certain websites so I can't get to them....you'll be on his list, you know, don't say I didn't warn you!
Posted by: Debbie S at May 1, 2009 5:32 PMThis is not a deviation from knitting. This was simply revenge against that awful huge sock. In truth, that yarn didn't want to be a sock. It wanted to be a scarf.
It may also be Schacht. When I saw the ladybug wheel with it's cute red wheel, I was just hooked. Do you think they put some kind of knitter's pheromone in the wood?
Posted by: Kat at May 1, 2009 5:37 PMVery beautiful, and yes, welcome to the dark side (warping and tying up an 8 shaft can help stem the fire a bit for some...)
Posted by: Alyssa at May 1, 2009 5:40 PMWeaving is a fast way to trim your stash.
That yarn looks better as a scarf than "the sock".
Posted by: technikat at May 1, 2009 5:44 PMI love the notes to the knitting. As a habitual anthropomorphizer myself, I welcome anything that makes me sound more normal.
Posted by: Bethany at May 1, 2009 5:46 PMIf it would help you, I'd be glad to hide the evidence of your - ah - "momentary indiscretion" down here in Michigan. You know, just lending a hand...yeah...that's it. I'm only thinking of you and your knitting and the relationship you two have, honest. Not like I want the (slurp) scarf or (drooool) anything. Oh no. Not me.
(drool...)
Posted by: Steph B at May 1, 2009 5:52 PMYep, looks much better as a scarf!
Posted by: Mya at May 1, 2009 5:58 PMPssst I have these secret photos of you looking at the loom and touching the loom and coveting the loom WHILE the knitting was in your bag. If you do not want these photos to reach the national papers send me all your alpaca yarn in a sealed mothproof bag immediately. Do not contact the knitting police or your stash will get it!!!
Posted by: cookknitwine at May 1, 2009 6:03 PMWait until you've discovered the infinite possibilities of weaving patterns...
And think about spinning for weaving...you will need miles and miles of lacy yarn for it...
*ggg*
"been there, done that" - I sold my loom.
For the sake of Knitting and our special relationship. (and the rest of my life...)
At least it wasn't another project on the needles!
Posted by: LisaDP at May 1, 2009 6:22 PMThou dost protest too much, fair Stephanie...The scarf is gorgeous- can it really be over???
Posted by: Rosemarie at May 1, 2009 6:24 PMSigh. A link to the loom has been sent to hubby. We'll see if he pays attention to it; Mother's Day IS coming up soon. Plus he keeps complaining about the size of my stash. We won't even discuss the various UFOs that are a result of your none-too-subtle influence.
See what you do? You end up enabling us all to become harlots, too! You...you...you harlotizer, you! It's the fiber version of a proselytizer!
Posted by: Laura at May 1, 2009 6:25 PMI've got a loom in the basement.
And lots of sock yarn.
And a cut on my finger that has me on the knitting DL (shiny new Henckels very very sharp).
Things could get ugly.
Enabler.
Posted by: marie in NJ at May 1, 2009 6:25 PMWhat does knitting expect from someone called, "The Yarn Harlot"?
Posted by: heide at May 1, 2009 6:28 PMSomething new, its fun and here we go.
Ooohhh... I'm so tempted. If a loom every appeared next to me, I'd probably give in, too. And the scarf is GORGEOUS...
Posted by: MonkeyGurl at May 1, 2009 6:37 PMSteph, Steph, Steph. What's next, those little pot holder looms? Making a hat on one of those round plastic things? Scarves on an Oblong Knifty Knitter? Please, dear. Come back to us while you still have your dignity.
-Your needles
Dear Harlot,
I know we met but briefly, but I can't stop thinking about you since that night. When your hands touched me, it just felt so...right. I know knitting will always be your first love. I'm okay with that. Truly.
But might there not also be a place for me in your life?
--Weaving
P.S. Welcome to the warp side, girly!
Dear Stephanie,
You are the YARN HARLOT, not the Knit Harlot. You may weave without fear of retribution.
Love, WonderMike
p.s. Sooooo PSYCHED that you're weaving!
Posted by: WonderMike at May 1, 2009 6:41 PMYes, but did you still respect it in the morning?...
Posted by: JoAnn at May 1, 2009 6:42 PMWhat a nice selvage you got! Tell knitting not to worry, you have yet to warp a loom...
Posted by: Gillian at May 1, 2009 6:48 PM*sigh* And here I thought (when I first began reading) that we crocheters had you in our clutches...
Posted by: Rachel at May 1, 2009 6:54 PMI've got an eight shaft portable loom. It's not as portable as knitting, but you know, I can fold it up and haul it with me if I feel like it. The thing is, once you get the hang of it (and the loom warped) it's a way way way faster way to use yarn.
Posted by: PammieTaj at May 1, 2009 6:54 PMThat style of table loom is just flirtation. Watch out for floor looms, though Steph, first they take your heart, then they wreck your hips. Beware.
Posted by: Susan at May 1, 2009 7:01 PMI bought a loom recently too... but I think it's ok, I think of spinning/knitting/weaving as all one thing, I guess it's the equivalent of a man dating triplets, ya know?
Posted by: Patti at May 1, 2009 7:03 PMHave you ever seen a weaver's stash?
Do you remember the Sorcerer's Apprentice in Fantasia?
I made the mistake of taking up weaving as a faster way to use up my knitting stash, but it absolutely doesn't work.
There are many reasons to take up weaving, but stash management isn't one of them.
Posted by: Dita at May 1, 2009 7:03 PMI have a loom too and I love it. If knitting gets stern with you threaten it with crochet.
Posted by: Ang at May 1, 2009 7:09 PM"Great!" [To everyone else: Lock your doors and protect your socks! The Yarn Harlot is on the loose!]
Posted by: Chris in Knitvada at May 1, 2009 7:09 PMLOL!!!! I laughed so hard to read you ripped out the giant sock that I nearly peed my pants! Wow, what an oxygen uptake.... I feel much better. I think I'll get into weaving next year. I go for spinning supplies at the moment but all those weaving ladies, they have a LOT of fun! :) Beautiful weaving by the way. Much prettier than the lamp shade--I mean giant sock.
Posted by: barbarsspotontheblog.blogsot.com at May 1, 2009 7:11 PMThought about buying a couch. Bought a loom instead. Never looked back. It's been a great ride. Welcome.
Posted by: Kate at May 1, 2009 7:13 PMI LOVE my looms. Been weaving for 25 years or so, and some of the best folks weave. I weave and knit. Sometimes I just want to make something, like place mat, or a fancy silk scarf, and can't be made by knitting. And I can't make a sock my knitting. Weaving is great for using handspun. These things are DIFFERENT. No need to be ashamed. It's like having more than one child. They are all different, and you wonder why you thought you only needed one kid. Welcome.
Posted by: Nancy at May 1, 2009 7:26 PMhussie.
Posted by: Rachel at May 1, 2009 7:27 PMEvery once in a while you just need some "strange"....
Posted by: Kathy at May 1, 2009 7:32 PMLook at you going bicrafty! ;)
Posted by: silverarrowknits at May 1, 2009 7:32 PMWhoa. I figure either your knitting will get back at you to "show you" or it will be on its best behavior to win you back. This should be entertaining.
My knitting tolerates me spending hours doing other stuff like gardening and coding, but it gets back at me by not growing very fast. I knit socks on the bus, but sweaters are an at-home project, so yeah, it takes me over a year to knit a sweater. Maybe not the best solution, but...but...argh! I need more hours in the day!
Posted by: Riin at May 1, 2009 7:42 PMBwah-hah-hah-hah! It was just a matter of time before you came over to the dark side! You cannot resist the draw of the fiber arts, no matter how you resist, young apprentice!
Posted by: Keena Golden at May 1, 2009 7:45 PMThat is really gorgeous. I have also been tempted by the siren song of weaving. The fabric it produces is so lovely. I am also happy to hear you broke things off with that Yeti sock.
Posted by: Deb at May 1, 2009 7:46 PMwoo hoo! my husband just got me the same kind of loom for my birthday! i'm hoping it's a stashbuster!
Posted by: jang at May 1, 2009 7:48 PMIt is just the Cricket now, but it will turn into two eight-shaft floor looms before you can say "shuttle." I speak from experience. And I still knit a lot. Give in to it. All.
Posted by: jan j at May 1, 2009 7:49 PMHmm...I've yet to warp the tabletop LeClerc I picked up ages ago...maybe it's time....
Not that I'm susceptible to such things, of course. Oh, no. The fact that I moved to another state after coming here to take a class in Navajo-style weaving means nothing.
Posted by: Christine at May 1, 2009 7:51 PMOh, Stephanie! Welcome to the warped world! For the past several years as I have read your blog, I have wondered why you had never tried weaving. It's almost a natural progression.
I started weaving much the same way as you did. It is just as addictive as knitting, only the equipment does take up a bit more room than needles and a knitting bag. But the items you can weave are ever so pretty...
p.s. It is not an effective stash management technique as you will now start to buy cones of yarn and plan weaving projects in you head when you can't sleep at night. For these projects, you need to have a "weaving stash".
I have been wanting to weave for a long time. Sigh. Your photos and descriptions have made it impossible for me to avoid getting a loom any longer. Your scarf is gorgeous! I must have the same thrill you've had. Sigh, again.
Posted by: Randi at May 1, 2009 7:54 PM1) I could think of a whole lotta things that I could use the phrase "(my/your/his/her) bobbins were full" for. And all of them are dirty.
2) If you start blogging about weaving, there are a going to be many, many knitters in a lot of trouble, myself included. It is hard enough to resist the lure at SPA and other festivals. Just sayin.
Posted by: Jackie at May 1, 2009 8:08 PM
Stay friends with knitting. It's more portable than that loom...
Posted by: KathyInGeorgia at May 1, 2009 8:18 PMSteph, I see a floor loom in your future and maybe all that goes with it I probably shouldn't tell you about shuttles, warping boards, loads of coned yarns, etc. It is, indeed, a very dangerous and slippery slope!
-Catherine, who knows all about the "slopes".
love the weaving! now how about that pattern for the cowl.....????? : )
Posted by: ruby rey at May 1, 2009 8:36 PMWell, I'm a fallen woman, too. I got a loom last Christmas to help me use up some of the yarn I've been accumulating. There is something awfully satisfying in finishing a project in just a couple of hours.
Posted by: A Crafty Lawyer at May 1, 2009 8:39 PMOh dear. Although, I'm thinking that right about now that tiny loom is good for your soul. Accomplishing something so pretty and quick to mitigate the chaos and pain of vendor databases...
Still...that first hit of crack is always free.
Posted by: Wen at May 1, 2009 8:46 PMThat must mean that you are a either really warped, or a radical weft-winger. Ar Ar
Posted by: Meg at May 1, 2009 8:46 PMOh I love it. I want one too. This also goes to show you that yarn knows what it wants to be. It did not want to be a sock it wanted to be a scarf.
Posted by: Becky at May 1, 2009 8:48 PMLet he who is without sin cast the first stone...my future (with all its unfinished projects) looms before me...
Posted by: georgia at May 1, 2009 9:01 PMWell then, let me further tempt you with David Taylar Daniel's fabulous website of weaving p0rn:
http://handweavingtoday.com/
Posted by: Heidi at May 1, 2009 9:04 PMBeautiful! Warping is the time consumer. Other than that, it's WAY too fast! You can use up your stash in a month (or less)! And that's the small loom. Try the big one. :-)
Posted by: mzjen at May 1, 2009 9:05 PMAwesome! I never comment, but tomorrow I have my very first weaving class! I'm super excited, and even more so now that I've seen your first piece!
Posted by: Robin Marie at May 1, 2009 9:14 PMMonogamy might be politically correct and all, but God, it can be boring.
Posted by: Judy in Indiana at May 1, 2009 9:25 PMI , too, have discovered the joys and compulsions of rigid heddle weaving-my most recent shawl is the same colors that you have just made-beautiful!
Posted by: Cindy at May 1, 2009 9:27 PMUm, yeah, it's a slippery slope alright. But a fun ride down.
Posted by: thecrazysheeplady at May 1, 2009 9:28 PMHey, you got a scarf done. And the knitting might be sore but in the end, you two will come back together. In the meantime, dance the bolero with that loom! (Couldn't resist, been researching too much about spanish dancing. I swear, the bolero is steamer than the tango or the paso doble.)
Posted by: Meg Wes at May 1, 2009 9:44 PMJust think of how you'll be able to reduce the stash in no time! (so you can buy more yarn) Just come to me if you want anything rationalized, baby...
When my mother worked at a museum, I used to go there after school and cart wool and use the loom. I loooved the loom. You're so lost.
Posted by: Lene at May 1, 2009 9:53 PMOh no! Now that you are doing it, does that give the rest of us permission to cheat too?
Posted by: Kelly at May 1, 2009 9:55 PMooooh!
ahhhhh!
My 5 yr old son nearly convinced me to buy a Cricket (enabler that he is) but I resisted. I will likely get sucked into it one day, since he is much more interested in spinning and weaving than he is knitting. And I don't (yet) have a spinning wheel or loom.
Posted by: cath at May 1, 2009 9:57 PM perhaps a chat with dr phil would help
next thing you know someone will give you
a little contraption and you'll
start makeing daisy's
Steph!
Step away from the loom!!! Quick, go roll in your stash, do not look back!
This happened to me with a spinning wheel, Bad Sara Lamb exposed me when I was in a weakened state and I have never recovered. This one could get you!
I'm so sorry!
Posted by: jude at May 1, 2009 10:13 PMThat's how it starts, you know. Trust me...been there, done that and now I have 2 looms to show for it. You start hanging out with weaving friends and the peer pressure will get you every time. "Just try it...just once". Yeah. Weavers are dangerous...not like us knitters. :)
Posted by: Lavender at May 1, 2009 10:27 PMThat scarf is absolutely gorgeous.
But meantime, the knitting is rubbing her hands, gleefully anticipating the time you make a mistake in the warping and try to rip back your weaving. Just you wait. Ain't no quick frogging in weaverville.
My--well, my mom's old-- 48" LeClerc floor loom sits in dejected rejected silence in the corner by two generations of knitters now.
Posted by: AlisonH at May 1, 2009 10:44 PMSorry, can't help you with this one. I've already fallen down this slope. DH even enabled me by finding a loom for me.
P.S. A spider scuttled under my coffee table today. I have decided to teach pets to dispatch all spiders.
Posted by: Diane at May 1, 2009 10:48 PMYou HARLOT you!
LOL. As long as it is yarn based I think it can be forgiven.
Well, I know you are in no way considering a breakup with knitting, but do try warping the loom yourself before you think weaving will be all fun and games! :) I'm just saying this because I took a weaving class (it was a fall quarter fling, ok?) and we spent 3 of the 5 weeks just warping.
Posted by: KT at May 1, 2009 11:04 PMIs it true that once you've had Schacht you never go back?
Posted by: Heidi at May 1, 2009 11:11 PMThis could solve all your Christmas gift deadline problems! No, wait, you'd just procrastinate more...I know you!
Posted by: Barbara-Kay at May 1, 2009 11:28 PMI hope you realize you've just damned yourself to ages of lying swatches and gauge "accidents." Don't piss off the knitting gods, Steph! They're vindictive and they have pointy sticks!
Posted by: Quiara at May 1, 2009 11:47 PMHmm. Don't you have a child heading off to college soon? It would be a shame to leave the extra space just languishing forlornly for visits. A loom is very decorative, some of them even fold up...
Bwa ha ha ha ha
Posted by: kmbr at May 1, 2009 11:59 PMI am primarily a weaver butI have hung out at your blog to get a chuckle as you tame the inner 'knit beast'. As I and any of the other weavers who follow you now know, you have been turned and it was a plot, a quiet plot to bring you over. To open your eyes to the bigger ( and better) picture!
Think loom with foot treadles...think waaay faster than even the rigid heddle. Think woven sweaters with knit cuffs and accents ( you wouldn't want to abandon the other friend completely ! )
Any fibre can be used, any colour, and pattern!
The possibilities are dazzling!
I even use beads with my scarves and shawls :)
And the best thing about weaving?? Your loom doesn't get jealous if you bring home another loom! It quietly moves over and waits its turn. Stash enhancement reaches SABLE proportions!
(Stash Accumulation Before Life Expectancy)
Susan
(aka Weever at Ravelry)
It's a gorgeous scarf... much nicer than the umbrella-stand cozy - whoops, I mean "sock". :)
Posted by: Crissy in Oregon at May 2, 2009 12:06 AMSteph,
Welcome to the world of weaving. There is nothing to fear. Denny knew what she was doing. Allow her to teach you and yes welcome to the club :D
Posted by: Ellen Bloomfield at May 2, 2009 12:14 AMEnjoy every moment of it, and go back whenever you need another experience.
Posted by: Sarah at May 2, 2009 12:16 AMcool...I think I could totally get into weaving. Whip up some pretty plaids..make some pillows or something and trim them with knitted lacy borders. I didn't realize it was so quick.
Posted by: Dina at May 2, 2009 12:17 AMYou know Nathania's had a bit of a fling with the weaving lately, didn't you? ;)
Posted by: Emy at May 2, 2009 12:47 AMOh yeah, weaving is flirting with me big time and I'm feeling as if I'm falling...
Posted by: Kathy at May 2, 2009 1:28 AMIf anyone hands you a lace pillow and bobbins.. RUN!
Posted by: ranvaig at May 2, 2009 1:45 AMI agree with Lisa, you need an inkle loom. I should know, I have 10 and I wrote the book!
Gotta love Schacht!
Uh huh...Yeah. I've got a 25" Schacht Flip. Woven baby blankies, shawls, dish towels,hand bags....Muhahahaha!!! You know you want one!
Posted by: Mary Walker at May 2, 2009 2:05 AMI've always wanted to weave... but I don't really have time/money for the commitment. X_X Maybe someday, when I don't have lots of debt. But it looks lovely.
Posted by: Convivialiddell at May 2, 2009 3:57 AMI would cast stones at you and give you grief about going to the Dark Side of the Fiber Arts, but, since I have 5 looms of my own that would be really hypocritical don't ya think LOL! Weaving is great fun, and there is something so soothing and meditative about the rhythm of it that it just sucks you in. Spinning is like that for me too. So now when you sign up for SOAR, you should look really hard at Sara Lamb's class. It's ok, knitting will forgive you. You'll go back to it after a brief hiatus and you'll love it even more. Besides, knitting didn't get angry when you learned how to spin. You'll go back to knitting again, you'll just bring your new found love of weaving too.
Posted by: Dyepotgirl at May 2, 2009 5:56 AMOh no.
Posted by: StellaMM at May 2, 2009 7:10 AMWelcome to the warped side! We have cookies! Your scarf is lovely and yep, you can take your loom on a plane. :-)
Posted by: Denyse at May 2, 2009 7:53 AMI cannot believe that you would do this to us. I have been so strong in resisting and interest in looming since childhood and now, NOW, you show us this.
Must knit, must sew, must spend more time with my new DSi; must knit, must sew . . . . .
The dark side loometh!
Posted by: Steph B in NC at May 2, 2009 8:04 AMYour knitting needles are very disappointed in you. Your yarn stash cannot believe such infidelity! Your library of knitting books have closed their covers in total shame. Look forward to you returning to the fold.........
Posted by: Ruth in NJ at May 2, 2009 8:06 AMI know you're pleased with yourself and trying really hard to think of good reasons why you should have used that incredible yarn for that "forced*cough*upon you" weaving project. However, I can't let you fool yourself any longer. Honestly, Stephanie!!! Just go back to your April 29th blog and look at the photos of the sweater, shawl, and green sock. How can the scarf compare? It could just as easily be a table runner or a placemat. Sorry, if I'm bursting your bubble, but somebody has to give you the goods straight up. It's for your own good!!!!
Posted by: Hazel Smith at May 2, 2009 8:34 AMA "quickie" is a couple of hours?!!
Crap. I've been doing it wrong.
Posted by: Annette at May 2, 2009 8:49 AMYou realize that you are also turning into a grand pimp here? Now I want a loom too.
BTW, there's a photoblog of a guy in Toronto. I always wonder if you've seen it, so here's his URL: http://wvs.topleftpixel.com/
I always enjoy seeing the pics of Toronto and wondering if the Yarn Harlot ever passes by those areas in the photos.
Posted by: geraldine at May 2, 2009 8:50 AMGee, thanks Steph! Now we all want a loom! I remember weaving on a cheap plastic loom with yarn when I was a kid. I may have to introduce my kids to weaving. It's not cheating if I'm just "helping" the kids with their projects, right??????
Posted by: Teish at May 2, 2009 9:06 AMDon't beat yourself up about it, honey. When I turned my back, a 12-harness loom moved into my living room and I don't think it has plans to leave anytime soon. We all make these little detours in life...
Posted by: Robyn at May 2, 2009 9:07 AMDear Stephanie, We, your vast and pointy collection of dpns, are writing you this letter to let you know how hurt and betrayed we feel at seeing you weaving a scarf that should have been a knitted sock. However, although your fickle actions have rocked our marriage to the core, we are ready to do our part to try to sort things out. We are sharp and there's lots of us but we are willing to negotiate in peace just to have you wrap soft yarn around us again.
Love,
Your dpns
OMIGOD! who could blame you for straying? that is fantastically beautiful!!!
Posted by: christine m.east of toronto at May 2, 2009 9:41 AMThat is pretty.....
Posted by: The Captain at May 2, 2009 9:44 AMMaking me want to finally finish that discloth that's been on the loom since last summer.
Posted by: Marti at May 2, 2009 10:09 AMDamn that's a nice looking stole. I better not find out where I can run and get me one of those looms.
I love Alex's comment above, where she has Knitting talk back to you.
Posted by: karin maag-tanchak at May 2, 2009 10:18 AMWell, it was inevitable, wasn't it? As one who recently fell off the wall within the last six months, I welcome you to the dark side. Just thing of it as a natural progression.
And DARK it is--wait till you start looking for weaving yarns and accessories. Webs' catalog alone can put me into a catatonic state. It's a whole new world for you now . . . .
Anyway, congratulations! (Was that Joe I heard moaning in the background?)
Posted by: KatyaR at May 2, 2009 10:33 AMIt had to happen. But now you've got to tell us if it's a great loom because (and don't tell my spinning wheels this) I've had my eye on one. For my daughters. For their birthdays. Right?
Posted by: Jocelyn at May 2, 2009 10:48 AMOoooh - I SO want to get into weaving. Is the Cricket a good beginner loom? The scarf is gorgeous - I'm sure the knitting won't mind! It's like having an affair with Angelina Jolie - you almost can't blame the poor fool who does it, since she's just SO seductive (or, you know, if you're not into Angelina Jolie, insert tempting siren here)!
Posted by: Amanda at May 2, 2009 10:56 AMIt's ok. I'm currently cheating on knitting with cross-stiching and quilting. It's my mothers fault. She introduced me to them. I hope knitting and I can get back together soon because I have a couple of baby blanket dead lines looming.
Posted by: Beth at May 2, 2009 11:02 AMis there any way i can get this post out of my head? because if i don't, i'll be ordering a damned loom before i know what hit me.
Posted by: annie at May 2, 2009 11:08 AMAs someone who started their love of fiber as a weaver and has since branched out to knitting.. Trust me... those looms are just out to get you. You can't stop once you get started. Trust me... I have a room FULL of looms of all types and sizes... 40 inch wide floor loom, 15 inch wide, 8 shaft table, 32" wide rigid heddle, card loom, and an inkle lom and all of the accessories that "one must have".
Give in to the dark side and just buy it... otherwise it will haunt you.. and yes, once the loom is dressed/warped it goes faster than greased lightning!
Posted by: Gina at May 2, 2009 11:40 AMoh dear --- you may find that little "loom fling" may help you get over the whole sock guage issue, but beware --- before long you'll find yourself with a 36 inch 4 harness floor loom beauty sitting in your LIVING ROOM! (just sayin' -- that was my experience anyway)
just add one more thing to your juggling!!
Posted by: Bev at May 2, 2009 11:48 AMWe have lovely computer looms available when you are ready - many weaving widths & shaft configurations available. Art & Barbara, Steve's parents will even come and install it in your home and teach you how to use the software.
No rush - we're not going anywhere. Though they will be in Toronto this summer. . . .
Posted by: kathy at May 2, 2009 12:01 PMWelcome! It's just another way to play with yarn. I knit and weave, but I've held out against spinning, because I'm afraid of becoming addicted. You can't put a Cricket loom in your purse, or take it on a bike trip, so Knitting shouldn't be too worried.
Posted by: Rhonda from Baddeck at May 2, 2009 12:14 PMYou Harlot you! It wasn't just the loom that was warped. You might just be able to step back from the slippery slope to tatting, bobbin lace, needlebinding and - whisper it - crocheting. And just think what a mess Hank could make with a loom.
Posted by: jenny near London at May 2, 2009 12:31 PMInstead of apologizing to Knitting you should let Knitting know that Weaving has offered to be there any time Knitting is misbehaving. Sometimes Knitting needs to know that you can just walk away and be with another hobby any ol' time that mood strikes.
Posted by: Marlene at May 2, 2009 12:36 PMYou've solved the holiday gift problem! Falling behind? Pull out some sock yarn and whip up a few scarves! Seriously, that's a good way to get over the hurt of that yarn not keeping guage, and a lovely scarf to boot.
Posted by: Shel at May 2, 2009 12:39 PMYOU WOVE!!!!!!!!!!
(Bee-you-tee-ful!)
Welcome to the Dark(er) Side.
Posted by: gwynivar at May 2, 2009 12:54 PMWhat a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.
Awesome Post... awesome scarf..
Enjoy your new....
Posted by: Toni at May 2, 2009 1:20 PMWhat a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive.
Awesome Post... awesome scarf..
Enjoy your future projects.... as sinful as it may be... :)
Posted by: Toni at May 2, 2009 1:20 PMWonderful beautiful reuse of the sock and the yarn.
Looking forward to hearing if this 'experience' continues when you need to warp the loom too. Just saying........
Posted by: Susan S at May 2, 2009 2:00 PMI want friends like that.
Posted by: Marlyn at May 2, 2009 3:11 PMUm, I am so sorry, but you'll have to kiss your stash bye-bye. At least you'll regain closet space.
Posted by: heather at May 2, 2009 3:50 PMLalalalalalalalalalalalalaIcan'tHEARyoulalalalalalalalalalalala.
Evil. Denny is... well, Denny is Denny, but Beth is Evil.
Weaving. Beautiful weaving. LALALALALALALALALALALALALALALALALA...
Posted by: Lisa Grossman at May 2, 2009 5:19 PMWhat the Tsarina say. Lalalalalalalalala........
Posted by: ram at May 2, 2009 5:27 PMMy knitting (and spinning) have learned to peacefully co-exist my 60" floor loom. No one seems the least bet jealous in my fibery commune. It's ALL good.
Posted by: anniam at May 2, 2009 5:33 PMObviously a menage a trois is the only way to go here ... I have the components for a backstrap loom but have been holding out for a couple of years now ...
Posted by: Lindsey at May 2, 2009 5:56 PMGood Grief. It was bad enough with the spinning, but now you have to tempt me with the weaving as well!! Have some mercy.
Posted by: Cashmere at May 2, 2009 6:38 PMwhen will we learn more about the stitches saskatchewan conference....would like to attend if possible!
Posted by: val at May 2, 2009 7:01 PMWhen I cheat, I leave the entire crafting world altogether.
I write, or I read from a book.
It can't be cheating if it's outside the species....
Posted by: Roz at May 2, 2009 7:40 PMIt's so addictive, isn't it? Be careful, though, else you'll wind up like me, with a 36" 8-shaft occupying part of your office!
Posted by: Jeanne B. at May 2, 2009 8:23 PMThank god it was only weaving. Now crochet, that would have really been bad.
Posted by: Helen at May 2, 2009 8:41 PMI'm sure it forgives you, Steph... and remember, at least you didn't betray the YARN. If you'd gone into quilting, I think all your al paca would have molted in depression.
Posted by: shanny mac at May 2, 2009 8:43 PMIt figures. All last week I'm toying with the idea of a loom. Trying to hold out til Rhinebeck this year. Did all my research and I'm really considering a Rigid Heddle loom, a Kromski Harp 32 incher to be exact.
Now your looming! And my mouth is watering for a loom all the more now,,,,I guess it'll be your fault, hee hee hee!!!
Posted by: Nancy at May 2, 2009 9:13 PMTramp.
Posted by: Salvia at May 2, 2009 9:14 PMI try really hard not to rush right out and buy all the cool things you try because you're a much faster and more accomplished knitter and that would plop me right down in the 'ghost world of wanting' but OMG is that the most gorgeous, beautiful, fabulous, quickly made scarf or am I hallucinating? That loom. That scarf. That color. The efficiency. It's precious. I wants it.
Posted by: Rebecca at May 2, 2009 9:34 PMHa! I've been thinking about taking up the loom myself. 'Cause you know knitting, crochet, and spinning just aren't enough.
Posted by: saradippity at May 2, 2009 10:01 PMwell now you've gone and done it, there will be a huge rush on looms now!
Welcome to the dark side ;)
That's hysterical! I started with crochet, I moved on to knitting, and then spinning. I sew for a living, and I ordered a kromski harp loom with both an eight and ten dent heddle on Friday.
And I don't feel the least bit guilty, because when the zombie apocalypse comes, I'll be keeping my entire town clothed. ;-)
But of course, knitting will always be my fallback.
Posted by: courtney at May 2, 2009 10:44 PMHmmm, I tried weaving. It did not whisper a single sweet thing into my ear.
I made two beautiful things. One was a scarf that was stolen off my coat in a cloak room. The other, a many-colored rug my teacher called "exquisite," I never even finished off the warp ends.
Weaving loves you more than it loves me. I guess it's mutual.
It's not portable enough to do waiting in line at the Post Office, so I'm OK with that. I swear all my socks get done waiting in line... and I do seriously crank socks and often nothing else.
Happy romance, in any case...
LynnH
Posted by: LynnH at May 2, 2009 11:07 PMThanks.
I've been resisting the weaving jonesing due to the equipment intensive nature.
Now?
Help me, Harold Hill.
Posted by: roggey at May 3, 2009 1:33 AMYep, I was a weaver. I still own two looms, but I can't find the metal parts to put the AVL back together after moving. And I've done almost no weaving for 20 years. Turned out to be incompatible with children--you can't carry it to this activity and that one. But for the 10-15 years I was weaving, I did it intensively and loved it. Finally, not only were there kids in the way, but I realized that I had come to the point of loving the designing and being bored throwing the shuttle. In that time, though, I never stopped knitting. 50 years in on that one so far, and still lots to learn.
Posted by: Gail at May 3, 2009 1:55 AMI so understand. I soooo want to learn to weave. I'm sure knitting will forgive you your past and future transgressions.
Posted by: Teresa Schrock at May 3, 2009 7:11 AMWelcome to the Dark Side. :)
Posted by: Karen * at May 3, 2009 7:36 AMAs another recently a-weaverated (doesn't roll off the tongue as easily, does it?) knitter/spinner, I sympathize. It's totally addictive... and *awesome.*
Just wait, it gets worse.
Posted by: Dan/Brewergnome at May 3, 2009 8:44 AMthat's beautiful; the perfect use for yarn that's into S&M. (that yarn was asking for a beating IMO; the trick with the sock was just a ruse)
Posted by: anne at May 3, 2009 8:52 AMBeen there, done that -- only it was a 4 harness floor loom. But once I started working full-time there wasn't time to do all my crafts (so it got sold before a cross-country move). Maybe when I retire...(oh wait, I forgot, stock market crash, I can't retire).
Posted by: Lissa at May 3, 2009 9:48 AMSo *that's* what I can do with all my hibernating WIPs. Guess it's time to add a loom to my wish list (right behind my spinning wheel).
That scarf is definitely a much better use of that sock yarn than that oversized sock. Kudos.
Posted by: Laura in Taos at May 3, 2009 10:57 AMI have 2 looms in my dining room that I inherited and I refuse to warp them for just that reason. You are HILARIOUS.
Posted by: Ameleh at May 3, 2009 11:07 AMOh my god, you gotta stop it! You give me the worst cases of start-itis and now... I've already been over to the the Lion Brand site where they sell the Cricket. Must. Stop. Myself. From. Buying... It's so cute, so manageable-looking, so QUICK looking!
There's just something about the way you write about experiences, and those yummy pictures of yours. Just... stop it!
(Of course it helps that I'm so angry at knitting right now, we're legally separated.)
Seriously beautiful scarf, though. Congratulations!
Posted by: Maryann at May 3, 2009 11:28 AMOh my gosh was that funny! I hope you decide to go back for more;) Weaving is a wonderul wonderful thing;)
Posted by: Shannon at May 3, 2009 11:35 AMNever mind. I just looked at a couple of YouTube videos on warping. ZZZZZzzzzz.
Posted by: Maryann at May 3, 2009 11:47 AM..but it's truly all about the fiber! Weave on, especially with your own handspun - OMG
Posted by: Carole at May 3, 2009 12:03 PMWow, that's beautiful! I've been tempted to get one of the "knitter's looms" - either the Schact or Ashford... now this just tempted me even more!
Posted by: Mandi at May 3, 2009 2:08 PMBWAaaaaaahhhhhhhhaaaaaaaa!
Before you continue your feelings of infidelity, remember; Knitting hasn't been exclusive in it's relationship with you.
And all fibers are gray in the dark :)
Posted by: Gina at May 3, 2009 2:21 PMIt is not your fault. All yarn has a destiny -- it is not for us to question. That yarn wanted to be woven into a scarf!! A lovely one at that.
Posted by: Jessica at May 3, 2009 2:21 PMIt's gorgeous....and don't feel bad...if you think you're cheating on knitting than I'd have to feel like a whore! I crochet, knit, cross stitch, and tat!
Posted by: becca at May 3, 2009 2:41 PMSteph-It may have been a really bad idea to read your blog today. You see, my Husband bought me a full sized wonderful loom a few years ago for our Anniversary. Wow, I thought,but I found I didn't like the idea that I could only weave in one spot. I couldn't sit at the snack bar and chat with a teenager and weave. Ditto, couldn't weave in the car,the bathroom,the porch,or take it to Knit Nite. He understood and the loom went to a woman who has given it a very wonderful home. And now,when I thought I was safe....you show me a beautiful portable loom. Oh dear, I must walk away from the link. Please don't tell us how much you love it and how easy it is to warp--I will be a goner.
Posted by: Pat DeLeeuw at May 3, 2009 5:51 PMMy own weaving experience was ill-fated and I still have a warped loom in the closet. My friend retied the warp though, wove on it a while and returned it. So I suppose if I ever got it out, I could be in a lot of trouble.
What kind of yarn is that you used. It's gorgeous.
Posted by: moirae at May 3, 2009 7:37 PMI'm now thinking I should get my loom from the top of the closet and start weaving some scarves out of the cones of pink yarn I keep getting gifted. I have boys and the shades of pink are not to my liking. It's also 2/24 coned acrylic, very tiny and good on a standard knitting machine. But my loom takes up far less space than the knitting machine - it's two sticks and a shuttle. Christmas presents, anyone?
Posted by: AnnW on the Southern Oregon Coast at May 3, 2009 9:07 PMSpeaking of needs, I noticed that no matter what I do, the Yarn Harlot won’t talk to me. I mean, I have done everything to be a good stalker. I have enrolled in her classes, bought all her books, read all her blog posts and comment on them frequently. I stalk her on twitter and reply to her tweets? What self-respecting stalkee won’t talk to her stalker? I mean, really? Daniel Quinn was easier to communicate with than her and I didn’t even HAVE to stalk him. He e-mailed me voluntarily. What does a girl have to do?
Waiting patiently for the restraining order....
Melissa
Posted by: melistress at May 3, 2009 9:14 PMIt's about time you realized there was more to life than knitting! I knit (some)but am a weaver and even though I can't take a loom on a plane, I can (and do) get more done in a day than you can, any time, any day!
Welcome to the world of weaving - ain't it fun?
Posted by: Connie Peterson at May 3, 2009 9:26 PMI don't know what happened...one minute I was reading your blog and the next thing I knew...I had ordered the Cricket loom...
Posted by: Nora at May 3, 2009 9:48 PMYou do realize there's no such thing as a free puppy?
Posted by: Angela at May 3, 2009 9:53 PMI seem to be immune to the spinning virus, but I know that I must stay far, far away from the weavers. They could suck me in really fast. Good luck!
Posted by: DPUTiger at May 3, 2009 10:15 PMDear Knitting,
Don't worry, when she has to warp her own loom, it might be a shorter affair.
Signed, a sometimes weaver who hates warping.
Welcome to the dark side....
You will love weaving, it uses much less yarn,is very spinner friendly.
And then there is multi harness weaving, Oh you are in for the ride of your life!
Three words for all the warping-worriers: direct peg warping.
Makes warping a rigid-heddle loom a snap. Takes about an hour, start to finish. There's a tutorial here: http://reviews.ebay.com/Warp-a-rigid-heddle-loom-the-easy-way_W0QQugidZ10000000001572825?ssPageName=BUYGD:CAT:-1:LISTINGS:2
Happy Weaving!
Posted by: Syne Mitchell at May 4, 2009 12:28 AM*laughter* I started with inkle weaving several years ago and have now drifted to knitting. (And the scarf is really lovely.)
Posted by: Darice at May 4, 2009 8:25 AMCongratulations on the next step of your fiber journey.
Posted by: Shelley at May 4, 2009 9:19 AMYou have heard of 'open" marriages. But remember kniting is where the heart is.
Posted by: mardene at May 4, 2009 10:01 AMDarn, it got you. I just narrowly avoided capture 2 weeks ago but mine wasn't loaded and ready. Enjoy the ride because it's a sweet little thing.
Posted by: Dianna at May 4, 2009 10:01 AMI still love you. And honestly, Knitting can be such a bitchy thing sometimes. Especially after that sock thing, I think she had it coming.
Posted by: Rita Hartman at May 4, 2009 10:43 AMAhhh--welcome to the club! It's really grand to be a poligamist, isn't it? There are yarns I've looked at, knit with and decided they just wouldn't be at their best if knit, they NEEDED to be woven. So I'm surrounded by all kinds of yarny equipment, wheels, needles, looms, dye pots and a venerable sock knitting machine. Love'em all!
Posted by: hilly jacklin at May 4, 2009 10:50 AMYarn Harlot, indeed. I've been interested, but I'm lucky(!?) that I don't know of anyone who can give me a taste of a weaving loom.
Posted by: Samina at May 4, 2009 11:03 AMLovely weaving. I joined my local Spinning and weaving guild and was inspired and am now awaiting a loom to borrow! :)
It's ok to cheat a little bit.
Posted by: Natalie at May 4, 2009 11:08 AMTemptress!
"Get thee behind me!"
I will not succumb...no. I won't. I can't afford another expensive hobby. I've already battled spinning (and so far, won!).
But your scarf is so pretty...and, *drool,* I do so love woven cloth.
I will, however, be strong. If it's not a floor loom? I won't do it, and I don't have the space.
That's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
(sigh)
(((hugs)))
We've been thinking about getting Jess a loom. Your gorgeous scarf has just sealed the deal, I think.
Posted by: erin at May 4, 2009 12:00 PMYour scarf is indeed beautiful. However, I am not tempted to get a loom. One of my cats would surely treat it as having been obtained solely for his pleasure and enjoyment, and would sleep on the "hammock" formed by a WIP ...
Posted by: Anne at May 4, 2009 12:10 PMPssst. First one's free, kid.
Posted by: Fran at May 4, 2009 12:19 PMFantastic use of that wool "Big Sock". Really a great fit! (colors, textures, and solving a 'problem'!)
Posted by: Louise Snitz at May 4, 2009 12:41 PMAnd down she goes.........
I just got a rigid heddle myself and find it a good diversion and great stash buster!
Enjoy.
Posted by: Donna at May 4, 2009 12:49 PMLovely! I just got a Cricket too, and I've been weaving up dishcloth cotton just to get my groove going. It's fun and fast!
I'm just about ready to use some real yarn to make a scarf... hope it turns out as nicely as yours.
Can I ask you 2 questions? What kind of heddle are you using - 8-dent? or finer? and what is your warp yarn? (if you know, since it was done for you).
Warping the loom is the trickier part, I find, so it was extrememly enably of your friends to do that for you. But on the Cricket even that is not all that hard.
Oh and my 3 year old daughter wove a bookmark on my Cricket which her g'ma uses proudly - so it's a yarn craft for all!
Posted by: woolcat at May 4, 2009 12:49 PMNext thing we know you'll become a full-blown hooker.
Posted by: Lucia at May 4, 2009 1:56 PMWell, Tuesdays are for spinning. Maybe now Wednesdays can be for weaving....
Posted by: ConnieB in Ohio at May 4, 2009 3:08 PMFunny how I got into weaving way before knitting, and since I haven't been able to afford a loom (I want a 45" 8 shaft floor loom) since I graduated from college 5 years ago, I've been cheating on Weaving with Knitting. I think they've made their peace. We have an open relationship now, and keep communication open.
Posted by: Johanna at May 4, 2009 4:16 PMI'm weaving too. It's really my first love. I love knitting too and I do know much more about it, have had much more experience doing it, find it easier because of the warping.
Posted by: egrace at May 4, 2009 4:31 PMWelcome to your newest love hate relationship... I started with a table loom, moved a floor loom, then a bigger floor loom, then sold at all - and started all over again... loom in / loom out ...UGH!
Posted by: sheepless at May 4, 2009 8:07 PMThis is possibly my favorite entry ever. But now I'm even more scared to try another fiber craft.
Posted by: Christina at May 4, 2009 8:45 PMNot you too! I swear everywhere I look people are weaving together BEAUTIFUL scarves that do nothing but tempt me to start a new hobby. Like I need a new hobby. Temptation, you won't defeat me! (Who am I kidding, tempation? We both know I'm weak-willed. Eventually you will wear me down.)
Beautiful scarf! If the ambassador of knitting is weaving, then there surely is no harm in trying it out. Now, where do I get my hands on a loom.....
Posted by: Chancy at May 4, 2009 8:54 PMAnd I was holding my breath that you had decided to crochet. Thank goodness it was only a loom. Beautiful scarf.
Posted by: Mightygirl at May 5, 2009 8:26 AMHooray! I'm tempted by weaving, too, so I love to see another knitter stray in that direction. . .
Posted by: Kori at May 5, 2009 12:50 PMGreat. Just GREAT. You know what? You are a terrible, TERRIBLE influence.
I have already got WAY too much knitting stash and tools and so forth and so on. The spinning wheel, the assortment of spinning tools. More dyeing tools than I care to cop to right now. Books, magazines, flyers, pattern downloads...I have a shameful excess when it comes to fiber-y craft-y stuff.
And now not only do I find myself NEEDING a loom, I find myself thinking it is (no wait, seriously!) a GREAT IDEA to get one BECAUSE, see, "uses lots of yarn"? Too much stash, meet your Perfect Solution...!
Posted by: Mother Chaos at May 5, 2009 5:32 PMHmmm. Fell hard and fast did ya? I guess they don't call you the 'Yarn Harlot" for nothing.
Strumpet. Temptress. Must not succumb to the siren call...crap. I want to try it too.
Posted by: junglygirl at May 5, 2009 11:18 PMNooooooooooooooooooo! You frogged the sock! It was supposed to become a flag to hang over the door of your classroom so we could easily find it at the Sock Summit! Sigh.
Weaving is seductive, though. Simple, quick, instant project. Until you get into those lovely patterns with many colors! Nah, not you, simple weaving..............we'll see!
Posted by: Betsy at May 5, 2009 11:49 PMOhh....pretty... I think knitting will forgive you, I do and I think that scarf needs to come live with me. :)
Posted by: Denise in CT at May 6, 2009 12:12 AMBeautiful first time scarf or anytime scarf for that matter! The loom sucked me in at the MD Sheep & Wool this year. I ended up ordering a Schacht 20' flip Rigid Heddle & can't wait to get her!!!
Posted by: Eilene at May 6, 2009 12:33 AMOh how fab is that?! And the knitting will forgive you - after all, it's not like you can use the loom on a plane...............can you?!
Posted by: Jools Smith at May 6, 2009 5:15 AMI love my loom (I have a Kromski Harp). I love the the rigid heddle loom is such an affordable (relatively speaking, of course) entry into non-knitting/crochet fiber arts. I am so bad with my spindles, that even though they are cheaper they just didn't compare for me.
I've been using my loom to pieces and I only have had it for about a month!
Posted by: Seanna Lea at May 6, 2009 12:52 PMGreat project---does this mean I better show up at SOAR with a knit item or you win the challenge? I will be ready---have my wimple done as we speak :-)
Posted by: Jeannine at May 6, 2009 1:31 PMThe crickets will inherit the earth.
Looking forward to maybe, possibly bumping into you at SOAR!
Posted by: Felicia from sweetgeorgia at May 7, 2009 2:22 PMI have managed to resist spinning so far. With all the willpower that I can muster. But this post has me searching for an ashford weaving loom for knitters. I think it may be the answer for busting through my ginormous yarn stash:)
Thanks for the post!
Posted by: Marisol at May 7, 2009 4:20 PM