Stranded Sisters

2007-05-26T14:46:00.000-05:00

WEBSITE HAS MOVED!

Please visit www.strandedsisters.com

Thank you - One Stranded Sister!

Showcase Shorewood

2006-09-12T23:14:00.000-05:00

Okay - it is time to try something new....
What's that you say ??

An all day affair throughout the Shorewood Business District along Oakland Ave. and Capitol Dr. Browse our fine art and craft fair on the lawn of Shorewood High School from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - featuring work for sale from over 50 talented artists.
Enjoy sidewalk sales from local merchants. Delight to street performers. Ride the free trolley from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hope to see you there- I am certain there will be many new facees!

Let's just hope the weather clears up - three straight days of rain. Yikes

Randomness...

2006-09-12T22:53:00.000-05:00

This is just a fun little felted 'Mona Bag'

Made with wool and novelty yarn. Just big enough for a couple bucks, phone and keys- there are stone circles on the front and a brass moon on the back..

Okay - so I am still living in a world of Compact Discs and not MP3 players. Thanks to the generosity of my youngest son I am enjoying some classic Bob Dylan. I made this from some self striping worsted weight wool. A very exciting find!!!

This guy reminds me of Aladdin's Lamp.

Mostly the shape, a suggestion through color.

It isn't completely dry in this pictue and since has received some lovely stone beads running up the side.

New Blooms

2006-09-09T21:06:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of pictures of some new felted flower pins that I have made. The first picture shows a front and the back with the pin back sewn on with fishing line.

The next photo shows the different layers of fleece 'cut away' on the petals.
I started making these by bunching up a plastic shopping bag- really tightly and then wrapping some loosely spun yarn and seceral layers of fleece around and around making a softball size ball. Then I stuck the wad of fleece in the toe of a stocking and hand felted it. After 3 days it was what I felt dry enough to 'open'. I took the sharpest knife in the house and cut through the ball. Pulled out the shopping bag which made a hollow in the center. Then I cut inward from the sides and made the petals. I rounded some on two of the flowers and on the others left the edges straight. I like both ways. The rounded edges look alittle more 'hippy-ish' or 'flower power-ish'. Then I needlefelted some bits of yarn to make some 'stamen' and then sewd the backs on with fishing line. VOILA!

S H I B O R I !!!!

2006-08-11T13:02:00.000-05:00

or 'Nodules-R-us'

OH MY - How fun is this?

A while back I read about a Japanese technique called shibori.
What is shibori? Glad you asked....

Shibori is the collective term in Japanese for tie-dye, stitch-dye, fold-dye, pole wrap-dye, etc. It is translated into English as shaped-resist dyeing, because no comparable embracing term exists in English. Learn more about the World Shibori Network (WSN) formed in 1992. In other words, Shibori is the Japanese word for a variety of ways of embellishing textiles by shaping cloth and securing it before dyeing. Although shibori is used to designatc a particular group of resist-dyed textiles, the verb root of the word emphasizes the action performed on cloth, the process of manipulating fabric. Rather than treating cloth as a two-dimensional surface, with shibori it is given a three-dimensional form by folding, crumpling, stitching, plaiting, or plucking and twisting. Cloth shaped by these methods is secured in a number of ways, such as binding and knotting.
Okay, so mostly it is related to dying resists, but I had read an article about a year or so ago in Interweave Knits about applying the principle to knitting and
I had to try it as it relates to felting. Then, more recently, more information on this technique is in Interweave Knits, current issue 07/11/06. Check it out - there is a pattern in there for a scarf. Looks pretty fun, not sure about the finished shape as there is a lot of distortion when making the nodes.
Anyway, taking a pre-felted piece of wool, I wrapped small foam disks (about the size of half of a marshmallow) in random places. I wish i would have taken pictures, but it was SUCH an experiment one afternoon I didn't think to do it- next time definately!
This is what appeared. Big bumpy 'nodules' that aren't felted amidst a firm felted backgound. I just recently pulled this bag together, added some needlefelting aroung the 'nodes' and the standard magnetic snap and pretty cool wooden handles. I will definately have to do more with this style of felting.

Reclaimed and Needlfelted - The Updike

2006-08-11T12:29:00.000-05:00

Reclaimed & Needlefelted

This bag came to me from a thrift shop find. It had been a sweater and now has been transformed into The Updike. so named, as I was listening to a collectionof John Updike stories while working on it. Lots of needlefelting!
Here is a picture of it hanging in the backyard. This is the front of the bag. Fun beads are hanging off the flap on the front off to the right. This bag all started when I was demonstrating needlefelting on a scap of reclained wool. That demo piece is now the front flap.

"Flaps -up" Here is a peak under the flap.

Turn aound and a sweet spiral of cool colors can be seen.

Inside are no pockets, but the closure is a magnetic snap.
The strap is long enough to be a crossover bag. Most are for me anyway.
It is a nice manageble size of 10 x 6 inches.

Meet Morrie

2006-07-18T23:47:00.000-05:00

Off the knitting track, a little.

You know you're blogging too long when....

You upload...

And upload...

and upload...

I am joining Morrie - Good nite :)

A Day at the Fair!

2006-07-18T23:21:00.000-05:00

Well it was "Boy Band"temperatures today.

98 Degrees that is. Heat index was 105 last I checked. Nice shirocco coming out of the South.

No relief from the lake.

We got to the park at about 7:15 am and amazingly enough several folks were aready set up. I guess it was the coolest time of the day. This was taken earlier in the day - hence the smile still on my face. It was still a geat day though. Saw some old friends and new faces. The crowds were down, but the heat had a lot to do with that. But,

there is some reeeeaaaaalllllllllllllly good news to come.....

Perhaps the pool of artists and crafters was small, or maybe I just happened to catch the eye of the right judge, but Stranded Sisters have been awarded the 3rd Place Prize today!! Yeay - the very first ever award.

Here I was just bummed out that I didn't win the raffle for the Museum.

Having missed the photo op for the presentationof the ribbon and cash (yes, cash) I can only tell you that I was very pleased and suprized and giddy about the whole affair.

Now on to 2nd place and then First Place!!!

YEAY - the crowd goes wild....okay I can dream though.

Neddlefelting needed to be done

2006-07-18T23:07:00.000-05:00

Well I have been hankering to do some needlefelting. Gearing up for the Art Fair in Library Park. So here is a look at a couple of things...

The picture of this bag didn't turn out the best and I am afraid that I can't redo it as someone bought it at the Art Fair (Yeay!). This is side one.

.
and here is side two...
Alex says it reminds hime of Van Goghs "Starry Night" ...maybe Could be worse comparisons.

Here is a belt bag that I made. The strap can be snapped over a bike handle or stroller handle. Then clipped onto your belt loop.

Last but not least is a wallet that I finished in time for the show. It is a small folding type with a magnetic snap and glass beads on the end of the flap. Here is a picture of the backside laid out lengthwise. The colors are a little funky. It looks far more striking in person.

A Relay Relay Nice bag

2006-07-18T22:55:00.000-05:00

No. It's not a typo. It really is a Relay Bag. Huh?
Well, I bought a fine wool sweater at a rummage sale that was a fundraiser for our Relay For life team, felted it in the washing machine, cut it apart, put it back together and added some strings of glass beads to a skirt/shawl/sweater pin. The I-cord was some from a previous project that never got used.

The handle works out well as a shoulder bag or doubled as a pocketbook style handbag.
I love the striping pattern. Another success!

It has been awhile!

2006-07-18T22:43:00.000-05:00

I know it has taken a long time to post, but wait untill you see what has been up!

OKAY, starting from the left. This A-maze-ing bag kinda looks like a mass of mazes. It started out as 2 mitred squares that I sewed together, then picked up the stitches along the top and made a collar of sorts. In contrasting colors of course. The I picked up stitches on the bottom and made 2 triangles and sewed thse together. I made a long strap in alternating stripes in garter stitch. The bag and strap were felted separately and sewed together with fishing line. pretty cool!!
The next bag was a simple circularly knit bag. at the right point in time, half of the stitches were cast off and the remaining stitches were knit to make the flap. Oh ya, The yarn is a combination of wool and ribbon yarn. The ribbon was used every third row. A slightly hidden talent of the 'sisters' is the button. I made this from polymer clay. First attempt- not bad. Inspired me to buy a second hand pasta machine to make more. The last is a wool waterbottle holder using Wool of the Andes and a strand of Noro Kuryeon. Added a drawstring and a pinch slide (not sure what the real name is) and a few glass beads and leather strap and Hoo-ya!

Whatapane Follow up

2006-06-05T18:44:00.000-05:00

Here is an after-felting photo of a really fun bag!
I am definately doing more of these!
maybe not quite as big, but I have ideas swimming around my head.
Look at previous posts for the pre-felted photo.

The season has begun!!

2006-06-05T18:21:00.000-05:00

What a gorgeous start to a new season! The weather couldn't be beat. It was great to see new and old faces alike.
The Market was very fun, as usual. We had our first experience at The Good Old Summertime Art Fair, sponsored by the Kenosha Art Association and came away with mixed emotions.
I was a bit dismayed with the acceptance of some vendors. My impression when I applied was that the art work had to be original. There were more than a couple of vendors with cheap import items for sale. The booth fees for this fair are supposed to support The Association, and there were plenty of good quality artists there, that I felt it somehow cheapened the experience by having "resale" items. Okay, rant over. Again the weather was great and had a chance to meet some very nice people.
Because of the irregular site (being in a park) we had a few challenges in setting up. Here is a peek at our booth. Okay, so the photography isn't the best, but you get the idea.
Here was a good idea....

We also added a new item that recieved a lot of interest, but not a lot of purchases.
The Tea Cozy as seen here.........................

I want to thank EVERYONE that stopped by to say hello! Jane, I am anxious to try the pattern you gave me. And I am excited about the new Tea shop that will be opening in downtown Kenosha. So much abuzz! And it's not bees or mosquitos (yet).

Kenosha Harbor Market Vendors for 2006

2006-05-19T12:28:00.000-05:00

Kenosha HarborMarket 2006 Vendors
The Kenosha HarborMarket is unique among markets in the Chicago / Milwaukee corridor, unique, because it is out of the ordinary. Although vendors will sell fruit and vegetables, the vendors must grow their produce and special emphasis is given to organic and sustainable agriculture methods. Also the injection of fine arts and entertainment will create a life and an ambiance not otherwise available in the area.
This directory only includes vendors that have signed-up by the dead-line of May 3, 2006, and have paid for a minimum of 6 market days.

Agricultural (produce and plants)
Brightonwoods Orchard (starting August 19)
CJ's Flowers
Curzio, Garlic & more
Dutch Gardens
Kay's Produce
Nature's Bounty
Red Buffalo Nursery (May 27 - July 1)
Roberts Nursery
Mai Thao
Steven Xiong

Food (processed)
All Alaska Seafood Company
Chef's Helper - dried spices
Curzio, ... for Yuppie Hill - eggs and chickens
Grandma Dee's Bakery
Little Europe - homemade salami and sausages
Mangia Ristorante - bread and biscotti
Pampered Pup - dog biscuits
Sterling Waters Aqua Farms - yellow perch fillets

Food (prepared)
De Rango's
Popcorn Headz - kettle corn and smoothies
Sandy's Popper Express - popcorn and nuts

Art (self-crafted)
Erik Bradley - Creative Outdoor Images - photos
Beth Dary - Stranded Sisters
Katie Delany - Bead It - Jewelry
Jessica Knapp - photography
Marcia Shaffer - Barbie tents, ...
Kathy Schmitz - Kathy's Kreations - jewelry, clothing and cloth books
Spirit Hawk - jewelry for healing + wellness
Roberta Williams - Organized Chaos - jewelry

Art (not self-crated)
Trails to Bridges - African baskets
North Star Jewelry

Perishable/non-edible products
Anointed Body Care - soaps
Castle Candles - soaps
Curzio, Garlic & more - Young Living Essential Oils
Patti Prisms & Potions - soaps, lotions + more

Miscellaneous
Nancy Byers - teaches wool spinning

Not all vendors are included in this list, nor their presence on any market day is guaranteed!
Click here to go to our home page

Whatapane Bag!

2006-05-18T22:49:00.000-05:00

Actually this bag was very fun. I received an email awhile back from a very nice knitter from Massachusettes (HI!) who prompted me to find this pattern on the internet. It is a pattern designed by Trish Bloom. She has a blog that is dedicated to many varieties of Pane Bags. There arre soooooooooo many color possibilities. Check out all the options here http://panesgallery.blogspot.com/ I made this one a little bigger than the pattern - somehow an extra wedge was worked in on the bottom. It was a bit of a yarn eater, but I am very happy with how it knit up. Now I can't wait to felt it!!!

I will have to wait until the end of the month. I am going to Lake Tahoe for a conference for my day job. I am looking forward to going 'out west', specially because my husband is joining me, but also to see the mountains and see if I can't find some time to visit Jimmy Beans yarn shop and maybe a little horseback riding. It is in Truckee and we will be close by. The conference is for Credit Union Internal Auditors, our national convention. A lot ot learn and some good networking abounds!
Once I get back, there will be mountains here (of ready-to-felt items) for me to tackle.
What a wonderful burden to have. I am blessed!!

Some Pre-Felted Things

2006-05-18T22:41:00.000-05:00

In the works are several projects. here is a peek at a few...

Here are a pair of wine socks (second generation) with handles. The brown one was done in Eco-wool and the other in Lion Brand Fishermans wool & Noro Kuyreon. I was so wrapped up in the brown one I forgot to put eyelets in it. Oooops!

This fair Isle design was taken from the Knit One Felt Two book. It too is pre-felted and will fit nicely around a water bottle when felted.

Geometry and then some

2006-05-06T16:57:00.000-05:00

Well, this is the first in what may be a new line!

This guy was made using a strand of wool (2 different kinds)and a strand of some Yarn Bee brand yarn - Whisper, I think. I started out by casting on one stitch and then increasing every 4th or so row until I ran out of blue wool. This was a handspun wool, and felted kinda loose (oh well). I knit a little longer using the gold with the Whispery yarn until it was about 24 inches wide. Then I knit straight for a couple inches (this is the bottom most part) and then started decreasing at the same rate. When all was said and done it looked like a goofy trapezoidal thing. I folded it in half so it was more triangular shaped. Then I sewed up the sides until I was happy with the width of the opening. Next, I knit 2 loops on the sides where the strap will connect. Oh ya, the strap is a long I-cord in just the gold yarn. The ends of the triangle flap over each other for a secure-ish closure. The blue wool didn't felt quite as stiffly as the gold, so the shape is a a little weird, but workable.
Lessons learned

Use the same kind of wool - I knew better anyway
Double strand the middle section, that will really be the bottom. The intention is that it will be sturdier.
Don't use the floofy yarn. The shaggy look is okay, but...

Stay tuned for 'sister' to this bag. More and more ideas are coming to me.

Stranded Sister Dates for 2006

2006-05-01T22:25:00.000-05:00

Stranded Sisters 2006

June 3rd Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
June 4th Kenosha Art Association - “Good Ole Summertime Fair”(Sunday)

June 17th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
June 24th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace

July 8th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
July 16th “Art Fair in Library Park”- Kenosha
July 25th "Twilight Jazz" at Anderson Art Center/Kemper

August 5th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
August 15th "Twilight Jazz" at Anderson Art Center/Kemper
August 19th Lake Geneva's "Venetian Fest"
Auugust 20th Lake Geneva's "Venetian Fest"

Sept 9th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
Sept 16th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
Sept 30th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace

Oct 7th Kenosha Harbor Marketplace
Oct 21st Kenosha Harbor Marketplace

Fall/Winter dates will be announced later in the season
*************************************************************************************
These are the dates so far that Stranded Sisters will be "out and about".

The Harbor Maketplace is a European style open air market featuring locally grown produce, local musicians, local food and local talent of many varieties! See a theme? The market takes place every Saturday from 9:00am until 2:00pm right on the marvelous Lake Michigan lakefront.
There are a couple new venues this year.
One of them being the Good Old Summertime Art Fair (10:00am - 4:00pm) sponsored by the Kenosha Art Association. This will be held on Sunday, June 3rd in Kenosha. The location is a lovely square in downtown Kenosha. The square is bordered by the Post Office on Sheridan Road, Reuther High school, the former Public Museum and the Kenosha County Couthouse.

The Art Fair in Libary Park held on Sunday July 16th (10:00am - 5:00pm) is sponsored by the Friends of the Museum. This will be their 42nd annual event. Admission is free and there will be 175 exhibitors, live music and of course great food!

More information on upcoming events to follow.

Getting a handle on it...

2006-04-23T16:12:00.000-05:00

Here we have the next generation of wine socks. A carrying handle - Why didn't I think of that before!! There is the pre-felted picture.

Her is the post felted picture. I used two strands of yarn, Wool of the Andes - maple syrup and Noro number 138 (I think). It is a little shorter that the first wine socks but I think much more user friendly. There are eylets around the top for a leather drawstring.
Perfect for a trip to the jazz concert or for as a hostess gift to your next backyard barbeque!
Looks a little like an old fashioned swiming suit to me.

Felted Diamond Basket

2006-04-23T16:01:00.000-05:00

This basket was inspired by the book Folk Bags.The basket in the book however was much larger and made using a slipping technique to make the diamonds in intarsia. It sounded interesting but I really enjoy jknitting in the round, and I loved the diamonds, so decided to see what I could come up with. Here she be.....

Pre-felted, the design is quite apparent. I used Lopi and post-felted it turned out verrrrrry fuzzy!
Some strands are really long. I thought about shaving it to tame some of its mane, but then I am not too sure. I kinda like it wild and hairy. Maybe I will shave the inside. It stands nicely, but I really wish it wouldn't have flared out at the top. seems to be a curse when I felt. Oh, well, next time I will try something to curb that.

Many Mitered Squares Bag

2006-02-11T17:05:00.000-06:00

I have been dreaming about making this bag! I have a great Noro color that I think will even be enough. Three skeins in number 163. Black for the sides and bottom should make the gorgeous colors of the main body pop out. I used # 10 1/2 needle - my very favorite and made one mitered square, picked up on one side, cast on some more and made another mitered square and so on... Here we have the sides and bottom.
Looks pretty goofy if you ask me. Well check out what happens next...

2006-02-11T16:59:00.000-06:00

Pre-felted Four Square Bag. Well, really not just 4 squares, but 11 altogether. Four on each front and back and three on the bottom. The sides are each three sets of mitered U's stacked one on top of the other. I made two interior pockets on each short side (black side).
Next time I will make the bottom and the sides straight garter stitch and not mess with the mitering. The effect I am afraid will be lost in felting. Read on and you will see what I mean...

Mitered Square Bag

2006-02-11T16:45:00.000-06:00

Ta Da!
Here is the finished product. Note the size incomparison to the card on top. Remember it from the pre-felted picture?
What a world of difference!!

The sides and bottom U's and squares are completely lost. The black felted more quickly than the Noro, but that's okay. It gave it a bit more stability, I think. I used black grosgrain ribbon to attach the wooden handles to the bag. Looped them around the metal thing at the bottom of each and sewed the ribbon on. As an added bonus there is a magnetic snap to keep the top closed. It's a really strong magnet. Hmmm.

Anyway! This bag is going to be donated to the WoMen's and Children's Horizons' auction that is scheduled February 24th. I just may have to buy it back. I am REALLY REALLY REALLY happy with it.

Knitting on Thursdays!!!

2006-01-27T13:24:00.000-06:00

I want to welcome a knitter who joined us last night. It was great to have your company last nite Kathy!

Announcing that the knitting group has committed, not been committed to meeting every Thursday at 6:30 pm. Someone will be there at 6:30, come when you can and stay as long as you are able.

We plan to meet at Caleo Coffee Shop (2324 18th Street-Kenosha) The staff is so nice and accomodating.

Please please please come and join us if you wish! Email me at strandedsisters@hotmail.com with any questions. Yeay!

My Winter Garden Blooms

2006-01-24T22:37:00.000-06:00

It has been awhile since my last post. I think I am finally exhaling.
The winter has been mild, mostly. I have a few projects going, but have to get these photos out. With all the grey that has surrounded this winter, I decided it was time for some COLOR!

These lovely little pins, well really not SO little - good coat sized pins or handbag pins - were made using worsted weight - mostly Cascade 220 and Wool of the Andes and 10 1/2 needles. I have to admit that I have practically worn the tips right off my 10 1/2 needles. Good thing I have more than one set/pair. All of them with the exception of the roses were made on double pointed needles. The roses were made on circulars, but they could be done on single points. I used the pattern from Two Old Bags (I think). Then using beads and roving and antique buttons I made the centers. Were the copper coil originated from, I have no idea. I think I was goofing around with some wire the construction workers left behind when the kitchen was being done this summer. It's a nervous habit I have to fold, twist, pleat whatever I have currently in my hand. I guess that is why the leap to knitting was so natural.

This is what we woke up to last Saturday....

All the more reason to seek out the magic of color! This picture is particularly for you Dad and Kay- it's not all pablum, I really do love winter. It is the contrast that makes the REAL magic

Knitting Olympics

2006-01-18T08:07:00.000-06:00

This just sounds like too much fun not to pass on. Join the Yarn Harlot and countless others as they enter the 2006 Knitting Olympics. A description of the rules and prizes are on her blog at http://yarnharlot.ca/blog/olympics2006.html (we'll add it to our sidebar, too).

Eligibility: Any knitter who, embracing the "Citius, Alitius Fortius" ideal, would like to challenge themselves while embracing the Olympic spirit, and is just whacked enough to play along with me.

Concept: You must cast on a project during the Opening Ceremonies of the Winter Olympics (Feb 10)- and finish before the Olympic flame goes out (Feb 26). That's 16 days.

Rules:
1. The project must be a challenge for you to complete in 16 days.
2. There are no rules about what a challenge would be. Like the real Olympics, there are many areas to compete in. If you are a new knitter, then a garter stitch baby sweater might do...If you are experienced, well. I've already considered Torino. Use your own conscience.
3. While this is intended to be somewhat difficult (like the Olympics) it is not intended to ruin your life. Don't set yourself up for failure. (Olympic athletes may cry, but they do not whine pitifully, sob and threaten members of their family with pointed sticks because they haven't slept in five days. ) This is intended to (like the Olympics) require some measure of sacrifice, and be difficult, but it should be possible to attain.
4. No casting on before the flame is lit.
5. Finish before the flame goes out.
6. You may swatch before the games. (I consider this "training.")

Medals? The Knitting Olympics has only a gold medal. (There is only do- or do not.) Finishers get a gold medal button for their blog, their name entered into a draw for a chance at a prize from me, and the joy of knowing that they are an Olympic level knitter, no matter how experienced they are. You are only competing against yourself. (Well. And the Olympic schedule.)

Who's in? If you're just crazy enough itching to be part of the Knitting Winter Olympics, leave a comment (or send an email) telling me who you are, what you're knitting and a link, if you have one. I'll list you in the sidebar. Consider carefully. Done right, this will suck up 16 days of your life and be an epic work.

Remember... in order to participate, contact the Yarn Harlot and she'll add your name to her list of participants on her blog. HAVE FUN!

New pickins for the Art Show!

2005-12-09T23:09:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of new things that will debut tomorrow at the Anderson Art Show. I am so nervous. Hope it goes well. This bag is actually incomplete in the picture. I have added beads and metallic threads to enhance the aquarium feel.

Notice the snow in the background. We got over 4 inches last nite. Waking up this morning, everything looked so beautiful I remembered why I love Wisconsin.
This really is holding a 1 liter bottle of water. It was knit mosaicly (I know it's not a word) The leather strap has a clip closure and is somewhat adjustable. Great colors that don't show up as very true in this photo.

Wish us luck tomorrow. More later!

So Proud of MOM!

2005-12-09T23:00:00.000-06:00

Check out my 'Senior Stranded Sister's" latest accomplishment. This is the Knit Picks pattern for a felted Entralac Tote. She used Wool of the Andes and followed the pattern (I am jealous). The tote felted really well - thick and sturdy, but is larger than what was expected.
This is a pre-felted picture and a post-felting picture.
Great Job!!!

The WINTER MARKET!!

2005-12-03T22:55:00.000-06:00

The first day of the first year for Kenosha MarketPlace's Winter Market. What a fun day it was. We are really starting to get into the Christmas mode now. Today was the very first Winter Market here in Kenosha. It is designed after the winter markets held in Europe traditionally and in some cities stateside. Two big tents (30 x 60 feet) were put up with booths inside. We had all kinds of wonderful vendors with hot apple cider, Christmas wreaths, fresh bakery, ornaments, jewlery; everything including Stranded Sisters. See!! The weather was brisk, in the 20's and we had a good 2-3 inch snowfall. The snow put a lovely icing on the whole city. Alot of people were looking for mittens and socks, not something I do very much of, but felted soaps and the hanbags went over well. We saw alot of folks from the summer- it was really nice. Tomorrow the weather should be a little warmer. I hope that more and more people come to enjoy the market. We had around 800 people today. At times it seemed like more. The volunteer crew at the market did an outstanding job putting everything together.
The Winter Market runs this weekend and next-- see you there!

From the "Other" Stranded Sister to ONE STRANDED SISTER!

2005-11-19T17:19:00.000-06:00

Just received a photo of your Mitered and Fair Isle bags... Unbelieveable!

It's AUCTION Season!

2005-10-31T22:14:00.000-06:00

Well, we have been invited to partake in two community fund raising auctions!! One is a fund raiser for The History Center and I've been asked to donate a bag for their silent auction. EEK. After some deliberation I have chosen 'Black Beauty' as seen here for the auction...
This one was chosen for a couple reasons, first it is Halloween-time, hence the black; second, it has some historical merit. The bead on the front and two hanging on the side (not visible in this picture) were purchased from a merchant this summer at the Pike River Rendezous from a trader there. I hope it will fetch a fair price for The History Center. It's pretty nerve wracking to think of all those people scrutinizing my work.

The next auction is November 11th, for The Kenosha Women's Fund. They are a philanthropic organization that raise money to offer local scholarships for wonens' organiztions. Their event is called "The Power of The Purse" Pretty fitting that handmade felted handbags would be on the auction block. This is the bag that has been chosen for their event. I am not real happy with the photo quality~the colors are not true to the real thing. The bag is called "Squash Blossom" and is knit in two lovely shades of gold/amber/pumpkin and has a glass bead on one side. I neddlefelted the large polka dots in a contrasting turquioise and red. Those colors didn't show up very well. They look murky and the turquoise looks like a bright purple. eeeew. Lucky for me this bag will be on display at the Public Museum for a week prior to the auction. More nervousness abounds.
I will let you know how everything turns out.

It's been a very good year...

2005-10-23T15:48:00.000-05:00

Well our first season with the Harbor MarketPlace has come to an end, and yes it has been a very good year. We have been fortunate enough to meet so many very nice people this summer. Some of our favorite visitors, Sunny and Jim have become good friends and I am hopeful that we will continue to have contact throughout the summer. Say "HI!" to Sunny & Jim...

We have also been able to conect with current and hopefully future knitters. All of the staff and volunteers at the market have been so nice to get to know. The vendors are so talented and great to associate with. I have to admit it has been a gas to explain the felting process to folks that stop by. People come to the market to enjoy the harbor and music and food each week and by the end of the summer so many more people have been forced to listen to me go on and on about knitting and felting and inventing new and wonderous projects. Thank you to everyone--- it has been a priviledge!

Chemo Caps

2005-10-21T10:40:00.000-05:00

I just found out that the adult daughter of a friend of mine will be undergoing chemotherapy and will likely lose her hair. Many knitters have been making chemo caps for years and donating them to hospitals. I decided to do some online hunting for patterns and advice. Generally, caps need to be made smaller because of the lack of hair and yarn should be the softest available. Any pattern can be adapted and we've listed some sites with patterns on the sidebar. Patterns range from the "Classic" chemo cap to Wiggies, toques, turbans, skull caps, and Rasta caps. So... in your spare time consider making chemo caps for your local hospital or dear friend.

Check out the sidebar for a listing of free on-line chemo cap patterns (including the Wiggie).
- the "other" stranded sister

Playing with Color

2005-10-12T12:52:00.000-05:00

Check this out... an online random stripe generator!
A... what??

Thanks to the members of the Yahoo "fulling_around" group and the sharp eye of my sister, Stranded Sisters would like to share a very cool online tool. Use it for designing your own striped projects or just have fun playing with color.

http://www.kissyourshadow.com/stripe_maker.php

Link is also on the side bar... have fun :-)

New Date Added!

2005-09-30T07:49:00.000-05:00

Just to let everyone know, Stranded Sisters have added another date to our season.
We will be at the Kenosha Harbor Marketplace on October 15th.

This is APPRECIATION Day for all of the patrons who have visited throughout the summer. I believe all of the vendors will be participating in some fashion. All of us who have brought their produce, food, plants, music and art appreciate the hundreds of folks who come to the harbor every weekend. We have all enjoyed a gorgeous summer of sailboats, seagulls and sunshine.

The Market runs through October 29th so you still have time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Kenosha's lakefront....you'll find everything your looking for!

Felted Soaps

2005-09-30T07:30:00.000-05:00

After reading some discussion on the knitlist and using the information offered up there; I had to try my hand at felting soap. My husband a/k/a/ my "male stranded sister" even had to join in the fun!! A little fleece, a little hot water and bubble wrap turns to an entertaining evening, who'd have thought.

They can be used as an exfolliant treatment for your hands and feet to feel soft and healthy. They are agood tool for getting gardener gunk off your hands. Other dry skin areas benefit from the use of a felted bar. They are wonderful as a non-skid bar in the bath and shower. The design of this soap is great for those with arthritis or hand problems as they are easy to hold and do not slip. You could use them as part of your camping supplies. It's a bar of soap and a wash rag in one ! Less to carry and pack. When you have used up all the soap in the bar a very clean cat toy remains that's also great for cleaning the dust off your computer screen. Who knew there could be so much versatility is such a small thing. I have asked a few 'stranded sisters' to act as test soapers to see if any big flaws present themselves. These bars are made of very mild soap such as Dove and Jurgens. One soap is a Pears bar, I wanted to see how glycerine did as a felted soap.

On some I wrapped pencil roving around the bar for a fun effect and maybe a little added texture for scrubbing.

How very fun!!

Spam Attacks

2005-09-27T19:47:00.000-05:00

If you click on some of the comments, you may notice that many of them have been "removed by the administrator." Unfortunately, we've had a rash of spam comments. Consequently, we have added the "comments verification" option to the blog to help screen out these spam attacks. We really do welcome your comments but please put the "selling opportunities for land, etc." somewhere else. Let us know what you think of the many projects found on the blog. It's our love of the art and craft of knitting/felting/crocheting and of community that inspires us to share our thoughts and ideas with you. And, we hope that you, too, will share with us.

Hurricane Relief

2005-09-27T09:52:00.000-05:00

Our hearts go out to those affected by Hurricane Katrina and Rita. Please help in any way you can. We've included some links on the sidebar. Thanks!

What has been going on?

2005-09-24T22:37:00.000-05:00

Well, the flying fingers of "The Sisters" have been extremelly busy. Here are some pics of the latest things that have been completed. Scroll down to the moebius bowl that was so very cool to make. Here are some wine socks that my 'senior' stranded sister and I have recently made. This is a really fun bag that I made. My male sister a/k/a my husband has named it Triple Treat Tote. Why? Cause it is made of three different kinds of wool. Peruvian, Andean and Merino. It is made of three different materials, wool, leather and wood (buttons on the inside) and it has three different bands of design knit into it. Inside a privacy pocket has been knit into the side of the bag also, but that doesn't relate in anyway to a 'three' theme. Oh well. It is a very nice bag if I do say so myself.
This messenger bag was also recently finished by my 'senior' stranded sister. It is a great pattern from knitty.com called "Satchel" http://knitty.com/ISSUEsummer05/PATTsatchel.html It's from the Man Issue, Summer 2005. It's a yarn eater! She made it with Outback wool in an interesting camoflauge color. Very manly, but I like it too!
This bowl/basket is very special to me. I was given the yarn from a dear friend, It is hand spun wool and I was inspired to try a pocket, much like the 'afterthought' pocket by Elizabeth Zimmermann. It is big and soft and the pocket is pretty deep to keep all the necessities close at hand.

It's a FRENCH thing

2005-09-24T22:26:00.000-05:00

Well, the "other" Stranded Sister is back fron Paris and this is what she brought back for me. HUGE thank you's to you! This style scarf is all the rage in France I hear. It is so very cool and this picture doesn't do it justice. It is a double ruffled knit scarf with a band of elastic running down the middle...

You can loop it and drape it and have all knds of fun with it. It fluffs all around your neck.

It will soon be cool enough to flaunt it outdoors and I can't wait. I am so in style now!

Thanks again Sis!

p.s. note the new kitchen in the background. cool cool

A new "do" and the mysterious moebius bowl

2005-09-24T16:05:00.000-05:00

Paris 2005

2005-09-09T14:32:00.000-05:00

Bonjour! Bonjour ma soeur! Je travaille en autre clapotis. Nous sommes avoir un bon voyage. Paris es tres belle. Nous sommes aller Versailles demain. Mais oui, je suis malade. J'ai une rhume et une petite fieuvre. Aussi, j'ai une mal jambe. C'est la vie!

Knitting for Our Troops

2005-08-26T11:32:00.000-05:00

If you are a beginner or an expert knitter please consider knitting or crocheting one of these patterns for our troops. Toe Covers used with leg casts can be knitted and donated to your local hospital using this free online pattern http://fibergypsy.com/pmkn/toecover.html. Helmet liner patterns (crocheted, handknitted, or machine knitted) can be found at www.geocities.com/helmetliner. If you are interested in an online Knit-a-long, consider joining the yahoo group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/helmetheadskal/ Thanks for helping to provide comfort to our men and women in the Armed Forces.

It was great

2005-08-23T22:35:00.000-05:00

The day started out stormy and ended up steamy!
Saturday at the Market was quite a potpouri. We had a nice site--right next to Curzio The Garlic Man. Learned alot about garlic and free range chickens. Talked to some fabulous folks that have become regular visitors. Sunny and Jim. We learned of their story together and how they were high school sweethearts. For whatever reason their lives took separate paths for a good number of years. Not long ago they met again for the first time in Florida wher he lived and she was visiting friends. They were married 11 months ago and look like the happiest people in the world. Well that isn't knitting related, but knowing them has added richness to my world and I hope to incorporate their story in a bag someday.
In the mean time.... I am furiously catching up on some felting. Tonite I re-felted a Mercury bag that my "stranded sister" in Minnesota sent to me, In hopes that it will fit her son's laptop. Never fear--it will look great. YOU did all the hard work!
I also felted a Man's Satchel (photo to follow), a mitered square bag in Kureyon- also photo to follow, a quiver for needles (a Cat Bordhi thing) along with various straps and pockets. Whew! Time to give my washing machine a break, and for me to get to some reading. Currently it is Alice Walker - Possessing the Secret To Joy. Maybe it's about felting, hee hee.

Cross your fingers

2005-08-19T22:51:00.000-05:00

There is a really GOOD chance of rain tomorrow. That will definately put a damper on the Harbor Market Place, siff, sniff.

And here they are...some FO's (Finished Objects)

2005-08-19T22:37:00.000-05:00

A couple things here that have reecently been finished. Just in time for the market tomorrow. This blue bag can be seen 'pre-felted' just below. I took a picture of it on the picnic table in the back yard and "ta-da!" it is done. The buttons are kind of military-like. They are old silvertone buttons that have a crest or sheild design on them . It reminds me of Great Brittan.

I really like the striped one. I call it "Beach Baby" Bag. It has an obscure hint of a beach scene. Grass, sand water and sky. I might just do some needlefelting or shell embellishments on this one.

A Fair Isle Forest

2005-08-16T22:28:00.000-05:00

Well here is a post felted feature! The Fair Isle bag is drying, yes, my lovely new refrigerator is in the background. I plan to finish it with a magnetic or snap closure. This is a great smallish sized bag that nestled comfortably under your arm.

Pre-felted UFO's (Unfinished Objects)

2005-08-14T16:36:00.000-05:00

Here are soon to be handbags and fish.
The blue bag was knit with one skein of Patons Classic Merino & Eros Glitz as a compaion yarn. This bag was inspired by a pattern in the Pursenalities book by Eva Wiechman. Her's was called - Gray Flannel and used some obscure yarn. I am hoping that this will felt well. I am expecting some kind of psuedo-metallic look. The Eros just might be a 'scale' alternative for the gefelted fish...see below

This next bag is called Kristina. My 'Senior Stranded Sister' aka Mom knit this little ditty. Really not so little. The tiles behind it in the picture are 12 inch square. The main color is forest green and the design is knit with Noro Kureuon.

You may recognize the yarn as it is the same that is used in the infamous Gefelted Fish, seen here in it's pre-felted state! These really are adorable guys, and again the floor tiles give you and idea of the pre-felted size. It fits nicely inside one 12X12 square.

I am expecting some 'eyes' on Tuesday to finish up the fish. My 'stranded sister' in Marshfield is making the glass cuttons that will give a world of character to these guys.

Stay tuned to see the final results after felting!!!!

I know I can hardly wait!

All kinds of stuff!

2005-08-07T10:36:00.000-05:00

Okay this stuff is just WAY too much fun. Here are two versions of the same bag. It is from the Flap Dash Bag pattern. The black and turquoise and coral and lime bag is made mostly from Peruvian wool that I was able to get from a good friend in Marshfield. The black is Patons Classic. I found a book finial that we had here and drilled a hole through it and threaded in through the I-cord on the flap. Now deemed 'Book Bag'...and it works well as one! Good and sturdy, adjustable strap, gotta love it. My favorite 'senior' Stranded Sister (my mother) made both of these gorgeous bags. The other is made from Lite Lopi--yes, we got a deal on some Smileys Yarn. $2.50 a skein! Yeay! On the flap of this one I drilled a domino for the flap weight. How fun! As a side note, my beautiful new fridge is the back drop.

The domino theme continues, as I finished and finally lined (yuck!) the drawstring bag in Wildflower DK. It's lined in a nice blue/black cotton. The straps are long, but can be adjusted.

Lastly, here is the now complete mitered square bag with the lovely dragonfly button that was goven to me by a dear 'at-work' Stranded Sister. I think it's perfect. The photo doesn't do it justice. (As a side note, my beautiful new counter is the backdrop-yeay!)

In-Laws are coming to visit today, we'll be going to the Pike Creek Rendezvous and Shedd Aquarium tomorrow. More inspiration in the works, I can feel it.

Busy Day!

2005-08-01T18:57:00.000-05:00

It's been a very busy day. I called it 'Finished Object' Day. Or "FO" Day as they say on the knitlist. Did some dreaded lining of a bag that isn't felted, but is a drawstring type. Looks fine, I just hate sewing linings. Also worked on some closures for wallets that are needlefelted, and a purple bag that is in the line of the Red Hat society. But the cooooolest thing was a mitered square bag that I knit in Lopi Lite.

It turned out quite hairy, but I think it looks great. Here are pictures of it drying. Soon to be embelished. The colors are very fun, the green isn't too electric. I was afraid that it might be too strong of a contrast with the other more natual colors. The size is nice. It stared out just under 16 inches square and is not perfect for a small day bag. What do you think.

TA DA!!!

2005-08-01T18:40:00.000-05:00

Ta Da!!
Here is the finished bag! YEAY! I am pretty
happy with how it turned out. It is a good size for toting "what-nots". Here are a couple views...

The yellow and purple side is the side with the inside pocket. A success story there! I wasn't too sure how that was going to felt, but it turned out smashingly, if I say so myself. The ring is just for interest, doesn't serve a pupose, unless anyone can think of one? It's too thick to hook car keys on I think. I don't know, suggestions????

Something different

2005-07-27T22:37:00.000-05:00

Here is a bag that I wanted to try making. After having done it, I can think of a million ways to construct it better, faster and less labor intensive. I started out with a basic garter stitch strip for the bottom. I picked up and knit a couple rows all around. Then I put all but one short side on holders and knit in garter stitch, alternating colors for about 16 inches. Orange and brown on one side. Then I picked up stitches for the front in green, worked in stockinette for awhile, then did a little square in a contrasting tweedy rust color. I finished off when I thought it was about even with the side. I knit the next side the same only in deep purple and wheat. Then the back as the front only reversing the colors. Well then to sew it all together, I discover the vast difference between garter rows and stockinette rows. Duh! Back to the needles and built up the front and back to match the sides. Once that all worked out and every side was even, I worked a few rows of reverse stockinette in the deep purple color for a band around the top. I made a flat i-cord for a strap. Wait till you see how it felts! Then just because I could stand not trying it, I knit a small pocket on the inside of one of the short sides. I was always curious to see if it would just felt together with the bag or remain a separate piece. We'll see....

Jan Bag

2005-07-20T23:16:00.000-05:00

This is one of my verry favorite bags. I call it "Jan Bag" for two reasons; the very first reason is because the yarn came to me through a great woman named Jan. She graciously gave me the yarn which is a fun Lopi and a gorgeous handspun apricot wool. Thanks Jan. The second reason is because this bag was made in January. I know it's a hot July right now, and perhaps it is wishful thinking that it just might get cooler, but I was revisiting some of my winter projects and remembered how very much I enjoyed this one.
When Jan gave me a bag full of yarn I poked through it and found a half finished sleeve with a pretty cable design made in the apricot yarn. Since I wanted to use the yarn and wasn't going to finish the sweater, I began to rip it apart, then I thought, duh! she's already done the knitting for me. The sleeve became a very sturdy, pretty botton to this bag. Thanks again, Jan!

Hot...hot...hot!

2005-07-16T15:57:00.000-05:00

Today at the Harbor Marketplace it was definately HOT! 88 degrees and unfortunately no lake effect breeze

:(
It was so absolutely beautiful to see all the people and all the flowers and music and produce!!
We had a good time talking with various knitters that stopped by. It is a growing culture out there. So many people that learned to knit as a child and more or less abandoned it. Now, I think folks are seeing some potential for taking it up again. That is soooo cooool. I hope that I have been able to encourage some people to try knitting again for the first time.
If it hadn't been for my sister and her encourgement to knit again after an obscene amount of time, I never would have known the joy and satisfaction of playing with color and fibre and meeting so many great people.

Citrus Bag: pre-felted

2005-07-16T15:52:00.000-05:00

Okay, I know that this bohemouth will turn into a useable handbag, but it seems pretty incedible to think that it will convert from almost 28 inches to roughly 16 inches tall. Just wait and see...

Citrus Bag is finally finished

2005-07-16T15:39:00.000-05:00

Well the citrus-y bag in bright lemon yellow and lime green is finally done. The knitting went well, The design was inspired from a pattern called the "Oval Bottom Bag", by Two Old Bags. It is a great pattern that uses short row shaping for the bottom and the sides. This verison was made a bit taller than the pattern and I knit some stripes at the top before the final shaping. The double strap idea came from the "Constant Companion" pattern. The thing that held this bag up the most was the straps. To use grommets or not not to use grommets. That was the question. Of course, once you punch the whole in the felted bag, you can't undo it, so I had to be pretty sure. Well, I lept, and I really LOVE the way it turned out.

A Bag Is Born

2005-07-06T22:38:00.000-05:00

Yowsa! Such drama in felting. This is why I love this art so much.
Here are some mor post-felting shots...

Extreme close-up!

This one ends up right around the 18inch mark including the strap. I used one needle size larger on the chart work to try to avoid the 'tuliping' that can happen when knitting designs. Not too bad. The sides are fairly straight.

In the Bag!

2005-07-06T22:29:00.000-05:00

This little ditty started out not so little. If you came to the Harbor MarketPlace last Saturday, you may have seen me with this newly knit item. I was using it as a demonstration of the dramatic effect felting/fulling has on wool. Here is a pre-felted picture...
Weighing in at just about 27 inches stem to stern. I used mostly Patons classic wool, with a bit of Lopi on the bottom for some thickness. Quite a dramatic difference from the finished bag, eh?

SEE YOU AT THE HARBOR!

2005-06-30T22:58:00.000-05:00

This Saturday - July 2nd is "ALL AMERICAN DAY" at the Harbor MarketPlace. Come down and join the fun with food demonstrations, live music and great local produce.

Stop in and say "HI" at our booth. Look for the 'Stranded Sisters' sign.

The weather is going to be outstanding!!!!!!

Pocketbook with Posies

2005-06-28T19:43:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest needle felting bag!!

It started out as a simple little blue pocketbook and became a blank canvas that really needed some summery flowers to compliment it all around. After I felted it I shaped it over 2 wicker plate holders until it dried. Then I got out my trusty needlefelting tool and some roving to accent the background. It has a sweet little vine growing up the side and perky blossoms popping all about. My garden is the inspiration behind this little bag. Hope you enjoy it too!

Another silk bag

2005-06-28T17:39:00.000-05:00

WOOOOO HOOOOO !
I finished this silk bag this past weekend. The pattern cames to me as I went along. The strap is adjustable and it is lined with batiked fabric. The handmade button closure is from a small shop in Gatlinburg, TN. I am glad I finally found the right bag for it. The yarn (silk) is from The Wool Peddler I just received a replacement shipment in fabulous pinks and another in purple and blue hues. This yarn is so dramaric in effect! I think the next silk bag will either be done in triangles or some sort of circular pattern. This particular yarn mught bt too fussy for a pattern I have been anxious to try. The pattern is from Frugal Knitting Haus... the Snail Shell Beach Purse. I will try to post a link to the pattern and you can let me know what you think.

Here is a link to the Snail Shell Beach Purse. Cross your fingers ~~~

Lining is essential to the success of this bag. Thanks to a 'stranded sister' I work with, I used her suggestion and included 2 small pockets in the lining.

Clapotis comes to visit

2005-06-27T22:09:00.000-05:00

The first glimpse of the completed Clapotis. The other stranded sister was visiting this past weekend and brought this to share. The first Clapotis! It's a shawl, no wait...it's a scarf, no...it's a wrap, no... it's whatever you want it to be. The bias drop stitch pattern gives an otherwise uninspired yarn a fabulous effect. Check out the Clapotis link on the left with pattern to see more versions.

Greetings from Baltimore!

2005-06-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

It has been a long knitless week here in Baltimore. Big sigh! One Stranded Sister has been held captive in this city for a mandatory week long conference that has to do strictly with my other life. The last knitting I was able to do was on the plane here. Almost, almost finished a very fun recycled silk sari bag. There is always the plane ride home tomorrow! It really has been pretty lovely here. Parked right on the Inner Harbor close to Camden Yards. I had the honor of watching the Oriole's win against the Astros. Grueling sessions have hammered my brain during the day and the ballgame was a nice respite. Knitting would have been good too, however. I wasn't even able to explore yarn shops, but have been able to consume a years worth of crabcakes in just 4 days.
So we will be back at the Harbor MarketPlace on Saturday and the weather forecast is for absolutely PERFECT weather. There will also be a great fun festival going on at the Lake, so please come and join us if you're able. Will let you know how it goes.

Thank you to all!

2005-06-04T17:59:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who visited us today at the Harbor Marketplace. The weather began threateningly enough, but turned into a gorgeous day by 9:00. We had a great day visiting all the people who stopped at our stand. There was music, fresh produce, some good food and a charity walk with a special appearance from Kenosha's own Daniel J. Travanti to boot! All went real well, we packed up to come home and BANG! the thunder and rain began. Actually, it was a nice shower to get caught in. Weather in Wisconsin~gotta love it.
We will be down at the Harbor again on the 18th of this month-- hope to see you there!

The maiden voyage of the Stranded Sisters at Kenosha's Harbor Marketplace- June 4th, 2005

2005-06-04T16:23:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Stranded Sisters... Day One!

The success of the day would not have been possible without my wonderful husband, Kim!

2005-06-04T16:22:00.000-05:00

"The Man" behind the scenes

2005-06-04T16:20:00.000-05:00

Harbor Marketplace... Come and visit!

2005-06-04T16:19:00.001-05:00

Bags, bags, and more bags

2005-06-04T16:19:00.000-05:00

Felted Wine Bags and wine glass feet

The Catch of the Day included these beautiful, handknit & felted fish. The eyes are specially made glass buttons that make them fabulous.

2005-06-04T16:17:00.000-05:00

Gefelted Fish

2005-06-02T19:56:00.000-05:00

Beth's needle felting

2005-06-02T19:54:00.000-05:00

Lopi bag

2005-06-02T19:53:00.000-05:00

Recycled Silk Sari

2005-06-02T19:52:00.000-05:00

Felted Bag and Fish (check out the lashes)

2005-05-31T09:28:00.000-05:00

Alien Scarf

2005-05-31T09:27:00.000-05:00

Aliens revealed

2005-05-31T09:22:00.000-05:00

MP3 Player Bag

2005-05-31T09:21:00.000-05:00

Dancings

2005-05-31T09:19:00.000-05:00

Beth's Granny Bag