I think there’s a reason why Wendy Johnson named this particular pattern “Catnip”.
I went looking for the July 2011 sock pattern for the Skinflint Sock Club (no idea if anyone is still following along, but I’m putting the choices up anyhow, at least until I can get back to podcasting). I came across quite a few, but the standout for me was the Wendy Johnson Catnip Socks. The more I looked at them, the more I wanted to knit them.
What’s worse? Since I was already done my June socks (Gush, by Yarnissima), I really wanted to cast on the Catnips as soon as possible. In the pretty new Dye Cauldron Yarn I bought from The Loop. I don’t like being sockless and I didn’t want to play with just another vanilla sock. I wanted these ones. Now!
I’m almost to the gusset increases. The (not necessarily) trained eye will note that I’m doing these 2-at-a-time on one circular needle. I tried using two 32″ circs, but all the points just get in my way. Plus, the cords on my Addi Turbos are a little beat-up. I probably should be re-heating them in some water or considering replacing a couple of pairs. I saw mention somewhere that Knitpicks has some inexpensive nickel-plated 2.5mm circs, so they’re a definite possibility now that the postal strike is over.
Also new this week? Ysolda Teague‘s Little Red in the City is shipped! I’m awaiting my hard copy with bated breath. I’m actually reading through the e-book version right now. I’m actually paying attention to the technical information rather than skimming, which is rare for me. She goes into a lot of good detail about fit, particularly for custom-fitting odd shapes, which I really appreciate. Having never been a “normal” size, I find that most designers just don’t understand what it’s like to want pretty clothing even if you’re beyond a size 15. I’m very glad that Ysolda decided to design for both size ranges. Once I have the physical book I will likely do more of a review.
For now? I’m going to just keep ticking away on my Catnips. They’re awfully cheery, and that’s just what I need 🙂
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