I had chosen NHM #3, as I figured everyone could speed on up the striped ribbing and get to the harder parts (colorwork and thumb increases) quickly. As it turns out, only one or two people made it to even the increases before the first chart for the wrist, and so a third session will probably have to be added for the completion of the thumb. I told everyone to keep going at home if they felt comfortable, but to stop right before the thum stitches are put on hold and then more cast on. I want to be able to make sure everyone's thumb will blend as well as possible into their palm. Granted, it will never blend perfectly, since the two are knit in opposite directions, but still. Ideally, it will look something like this...
Decently well done, I must say. A different pattern, but the same general idea.
This brings me to my next topic...my first Annemor #2 mitten is, obviously, complete!
I actually bought Norweigian wool for this set, Heilo, up in Lake Placid. Thick and warm, yet light. The colorwork is charming, and there aren't too many parts where it is required to wrap strands for long stretches. I had to stop right before the thumb stitches are dealt with, so I'll have something to demonstrate on, but by the time the class is over I'll be able to whip through the rest. (Actually, I have a feeling I'll give in and knit the pair and have to sprint to catch up on a demo version, but we shall see).
As a last little addition, I finially have a picture of my Harry Potter worsted bookmarks.
The house colors aren't all exact, as I was using scraps, but they get the point across. I picked up some pearl cotton for a few laceweight versions at Joanne's. I had planned on getting some wool for a full-size slytherin house scarf, year one, or ravenclaw, year three, but I was disappointed to find they didn't have any of the full sets of house colors in Patons Classic Wool. There was only ever one color of the two, such as grey, but not green. Burgundy, but not gold. (Yes, I was at the point of considering another Gryffindor scarf)! My business will probably go to the local Ben Franklin...perhaps its a good thing, supporting small business and all that.
Anyway, off for some tea and a lovely winter morning...
