Knit Knot Norris: I've been busy!

I have been full of knitting fervor since my inspirational visit to Loop, and have managed to not only finish socks for Mum (Christmas preparations starting early as always this year), but also had time to crochet the fanfare cowl from this months Inside Crochet. It was the only pattern that really appealled from

this issue unfortunately, and I'm not the only one to say the same via Ravelry. Although overall I prefer the feel of knitted fabric, being more durable than crochet, crochet really suits these types of project that benefit from

a bit of structure and 3-dimensionality. The other benefit of crochet is how quickly the work grows - a real plus for those of us who appreciate a bit of instant gratification (this particular vice is properly tested when it comes to exercise...).
I am pleased with how this has turned out, and much prefer my version with hand-dyed yarn than the one in the mag. I used Malabrigo Worsted in Lettuce forthe body, and Malabrigo Twist in Teal for the trim.

I have made an outfit for my Goddaughter's christening, and this cowl will coordinate beautifully with the skirt. The skirt is a McCall pattern I've used a couple of times, and the fabric mainly from Fabrics Galore. The trim fabric that I have also used for the tunic is 'Hushabye by Tula Pink for Moda. I also made the fabric flower

pin worn on the tunic, taken from an Amy Butler tunic pattern. The scarf and t-shirt are from this seasons White Stuff and the colours are a perfect match. I've feeling rather pleased with myself!
I've been thinking about what to do about a christening card, and had an idea to embellish a square of great fabric called 'Polly Goes to Paris' by Henry Glass. I bought this from The Eternal Maker last year at the Knit and

Stitch Show at Ally Pally. I'll show you how it goes!

Next on the agenda has been inspired by yarnbombing, pictures of people holding up beautiful lace shawls that I'd love to knit but not wanting to shell out on lots of lace yarn (tight-wad), and a currently vacant window frame in our house just waiting to be filled! The other day I was looking at said space and commented to M that I'd love to commision a stained glass window for it, but can't afford it. I was also looking at lots of yarnbombing which filled me with an irresistable urge to knit and crochet every available bannister in the house. M was definately not up for this - it seems he has his limits! Ta da! Why not knit and crochet a 'stained-glass' panel? No, I can't think of a reason not to either, and it gives me oppertunity to use those gorgeous little balls of yarn that I couldn't buy before without an idea on how to use them.
By the by, the oil painting in the photo is one of mine, and as far as I'm concerned my best piece to date. The painting has taken a back seat while I move further into the world of textiles, but I'm sure I'll get back to it when the mood takes me.

For those of you who are unaware of yarnbombing and wondered what sort of explosive freakery I'm referring to, here are some particularly good examples:

(Phone box copyright KnitTheCity)