First finished objects from Gift-A-Long 2016....

I have finished two quick knit patterns by Faye Kennington (known as UkeeKnits on Ravelry. Both items were knit with bulky yarn that I have had for a while.

 I also had some beautiful buttons, that went perfectly with the yarn for the cowl, so it was meant to be.  The universe put the pattern, the yarn and the buttons together at just the right time.  I knit it for myself, because I rarely make anything for me.  It will be pulled out for the few cold days we get in my part of Florida and it will keep my neck toasty.  The pattern is called (2 Hour) Artist's Loop, which had I not been interrupted I would have completed in the allotted time.

 The  color way is Quetzalcoatl from Kathleen Spins.  I picked it up on one of my birthday yarn jaunts down in Port St. Lucie.  There was a small yarn shop called Yarn It!, but I don't know if it is still open.  The buttons came from another shop in Cocoa Beach, which is no longer open. It's sad when a little quality shop that has cool stuff closes. 😞

This is my first gift-a-long, both as a designer and participant. I am selecting patterns from a variety of designers at differing levels of complexity.  I started with two of UkeeKnits' patterns, because I liked the way they could be knit up quickly for a little instant gratification. Instant gratification seemed good way to start this party of like-minded crafty folk.

yarn, pattern & buttons

close up of buttons

Completed project

Too hot to wear for long.  Please ignore double chin & wrinkles for 

aesthetic reasons.

The second project is the 2 Hour Smocked Toque, by the same designer.  The yarn has the colors of sunrise on the beach, which conjures warm feelings anyway.  The pattern has some interesting details, that make the knitting a little more fun.  You have to pay attention when knitting the pattern rounds.  The pattern is well written and knits up quickly.  Another beautiful item that I will only wear occasionally, but will make a statement of bright color and interesting texture whenever and wherever it is worn.

Beginning of the process

 Keep your eyes peeled to this blog for an interview with Faye Kennington, (Ukeeknits on Ravelry.  She has also graciously donated

Left face

Right face

a coupon code for a pattern from her collection.  Details on the pattern prize, will be forthcoming on the same day as the interview. Don't worry we'll let you know how!