L+D {knitting}

Tuesday 18 December 2012

Before Baby MiH was there, Mr MiH and I had a chat of what I would need at the hospital. Mr MiH was adamant that I needed a knitting project to focus on - in case things took longer - 3 days maybe? - for instance. This was one of the most difficult project to choose, I wanted it to be easy but also complicated so that I had to concentrate. Also I wanted it to be something I actually needed and that I would wear - I did not think I would have been able to frog the project afterwards whatever it would look like.

I wanted a cowl to go with my Zara army green jacket that I wear now all the time. I decided it should be knitted in a worsted yarn and in purple - I chose a yarn I had not come across before, Rowan Creative Focus Worsted in True Purple. A simple lace pattern would do the trick. 



I bought the First Book of Modern (first published in 1958) Lace Knitting by Marianne Kinzel ages ago - I am sure at the time there was a specific project I liked. The projects are rather old fashioned for my taste, however the actual patterns remain modern and simple. 



I chose to follow one of the table mats pattern (the 'Celandine' one) for the cowl. I really like the Mosaic pattern too, but felt that the Celandine added a softer touch to the cowl pattern. 





 Pattern: Adapted from  the Celandine pattern, from Marianne Kinzel, First Book of Modern Lace Knitting
Yarn: Rowan Creative Focus Worsted in True Purple
Needle size: Circular 4.5mm


I did do some knitting in my first and second days at the hospital. It was a welcome distraction, and I was really happy to see how the pattern was going to suit a cowl - it also meant I met a fellow Ravelrer! As soon as I was on gaz and air though all I wanted to do were crosswords - I am not making this up, I was that gone. I used to breathe in and out, stop, offer an answer and carry on with the breathing. Let's be thankful there is no video evidence of this... 

I am hoping to finish it soon, to wear when I can start walking again and take Baby MiH on strolls! 

Many thanks for all your lovely comments yesterday! It will take time for me to go back into blogging in earnest, but be sure that I read every single comment - show them to Mr MiH as well - and  I will love catching up with your blogs when things settle down a bit!

13 comments:

  1. Enjoy this time with baby Luc- we'll be here whenever you have the time or inclination to drop in! Your knitted cowl will be beautiful! What a lovely shade of purple!

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  2. I tried knitting a sleeper while in labour. I think it had three legs.....

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  3. Crossword? Hehe you're a funny girl. :) That yarn seems to be a very nice yarn. With all that bedrest, I'm sure your cowl will be done in no time at all. Happy resting~

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  4. Ha ha, can just picture you doing the crossword!
    Take care of yourself and your wee family. We'll still be here when you're ready (and don't even think about replying to my comments for the time being!- ok???)

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  5. The purple is such a divine colour!
    gas and air is such a funny thing... and I've just had some delivered to the house :)

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  6. You always find the most beautiful projects, that alone is impressive to me:) Take your time and enjoy your new life!

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  7. Impressed that Mr MiH thought you should take knitting along. And I do remember wishing for my knitting needles in those very first hours at the hospital.

    Anyways, congratulations to both of you, your baby is soooo adorable. Enjoy every minute!

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  8. Seriously, Mr. MiH might be a genius. I'm filing this idea away for when I find myself in a similar situation. :-D

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  9. The Mister is very thoughtful. When things settle down? I have grandkids and a great grandchild and trust me things will never be settled again...:)

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  10. I love the purple color. Congrats on the new life.

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  11. I love the color. Looking forward to seeing it finished. Have fun and enjoy your little one.

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  12. I'm impressed you were able to concentrate on such a project while in labor and after giving birth! Shows what a hardcore, experienced knitter you are.
    Every mother has to go through labor and what gone on there is raw and no holds bar! There is nothing to be ashamed of; after all, you're pushing a live, little human through your body!

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  13. I love this color! I'm not an experienced enough knitter yet to see things and alter them like I can in sewing. To take a placemat and turn it into a cowl--so great!

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