A sock and a half

Rick socks from Cookie A's "Sock Innovation". Not too much left to do - don't you just love the way the left and right feet mirror each other? The yarn is Natural Dye Studio; it's so soft and should keep toes toasty. It's a bit splitty so needs some concentration, but worth the effort.

This is the first pattern I've tried from this book, which takes sock knitting to a whole new level. The instructions and charts are clear and easy to follow, and Cookie gives loads of info on successful sock design. I've made a couple of minor modifications - including a shaped arch which I find gives a really snug fit, and the usual star toe I favour over a grafted toe due to my ridiculously pointed feet!

Portree finished

A very quick post to show off my recently finished Portree vest, which I'm very proud of! Once set, the pattern's obvious and I found I didn't need to keep my eye on the chart. I'd recommend knitting this circularly though - the pattern's awkward to match up for sewing the side seams. The yarn amounts were plenty - I've got a whole ball of the lighter colour left over and about half a ball of the rust. Lovely yarn to knit with (Rowan felted tweed) and I'd definately use it again.

I did a continental cast on to give a gently rounded edge; in hindsight, I think I'd do a regular cast on, as the one I chose (for neatness) has a bit too much elasticity, and I think might end up a little baggy - time will tell. But all that stranded colourwork should makethis top lovely and warm - just as spring seems to have sprung!