The Yarn Monkey Chronicles

The Ea Z. Baby Quilt

2012-01-16T21:09:00.000-05:00

“Dan, how long is the baby?” “15 inches, why?” Washed, blocked, and pressed — this baby quilt is done and done! I wanted to make make sure it was big enough before I caught the G train for a visit. Ea Zarathustra Davis is the man of the hour and what a handsome little fellow he is.

This is the “Ea Z. Baby Quilt,” a modular hexagonal knit that’s surprisingly simple to make, although it took me a few collective weeks to design and knit. It’s soft and durable, made from Lang Cashmere Tweed and Cascade 220 in shades of pumpkin and tangerine. It’s about 30" at it’s widest point, but since it’s modular it can be made larger.

Wardrobe is very important to a growing baby. As soon as he outgrows his AC/DC T-shirts, he’ll have a new Pantera onesie pressed and waiting for him. I'll also have some hats ready for him by then.

More late nights are ahead for Dan and Carrie, and there will be some adjustment for Casandra the cat. But this little trouble maker is worth all of that. Maybe Casandra needs her own quilt.

Truck Stop Meatloaf Made with Potato Chips

2012-01-12T13:20:00.002-05:00

A moist delicious meatloaf and a salty waitress — these are some fond memories of a college road trip and a truck stop diner. I love meatloaf, especially when it’s made with potato chips. The best part is having enough left over to make sandwiches the next day. I’ve heard the life span of a good meatloaf is four days, but there's rarely enough left over to find out.

The tangy ketchup sauce is very important, it keeps everything moist as it bakes‚ I call it the protective ketchup barrier. Although people balk about using Liquid Smoke, I think it gives this meal an extra BBQ flavor that kicks the cold out of a chilly evening.

For this Truck Stop Meatloaf recipe and more, visit GardenFork.tv.

A Quilt for a New Womb-mate

2012-01-07T00:14:00.000-05:00

I better get more coffee going, I have to get this thing out sooner than later! The baby arrived a week early and I’m a few weeks behind. Two days before Christmas, Dan and Caroline’s son, Ea was born, You might say they gained a new womb-mate.

This baby quilt is a hexagonal modular knit made in varying shades of Lang Cashmere Tweed, a very soft, warm cashmere and fine merino blend. I made it a bit larger than infant size, Carrie can use it as a lap warmer as he outgrows it. This would also make a great pillow sham.

At 6 lbs. 12 oz and growing, he's a handsome little guy. Just look at that smile. I think orange will suit him fine. Christmas has passed, the New Year is here, and I'm still picking broken glass ornaments out of my foot. Hang in there kid, Uncle Tony is already half way there.

New Year’s Day 2012

2012-01-01T19:16:00.001-05:00

My friend Paul James said something T-shirt worthy the other day: “If you've survived 2011, you win.” The Year in Review reminds me that 2011 left behind a wake of challenge for so many people: world wide natural disasters, the repercussions of global financial collapse, political unrest, the ravages of war, a weak job market, record unemployment. It’s difficult for most to look up and see stars when there's so much garbage afoot.

But today the sun set beautifully over Coney Island on a chilly New Year’s day. With a new year comes a breath of hope and a fresh start. A woolly blanket of clouds pulled over a clear turquoise sky as stragglers on the pier waited for the first star to appear. With hands in the pockets they looked up to make a wish before they headed home. The sun winked its copper eye and sunk into the ocean, then all bade Coney a sweet good night. Coney Island, you are the unpolished jewel buried in a drawer in a second hand store.

Nathan’s still stands on the corner of economic change.

The masters of the sky look for a stray hot dog bun on the boardwalk.

Stragglers and gulls comb an empty beach for treasure.

The Polar Bears were here...

and here.

The boardwalk stalls were closed...

but Ruby’s celebrates an extended lease on life.

The sun set quickly over a raging tide.

Some gathered on the pier waiting for the first star to appear.

The Ebb Tide Scarf

2011-12-28T11:38:00.000-05:00

It’s always a bit difficult naming something, I think that’s why some great works of art are left untitled. Sometimes I employ a loose organic process to jog my brain. First I come up with names that I would never use: Sandy Ripples... sounds like a stripper; Tsunami... too soon; Duin-hir (River Lord)... I’ll get sued by the Tolkein Foundation; Esoteric Waves... too esoteric... etc. And when I’m done laughing, I think of more realistic possibilities for names.

For now I’m calling this pattern Ebb Tide. This winding, seven foot long scarf is a gift from Clive Baillie to his wife, Dawn. This original pattern is part of my Eleven Anthropology collection.

Much like the ribbed impressions left in the sand as the tide pulls away, Ebb Tide reminds me of a bygone day. With every twist and turn, it walks me down a familiar shore past the remains of sand castles, listening to the echo of crashing waves. I can almost feel the wet sand crushing between my toes.

This scarf is made with Aurora 4 (Karabella Yarns), a DK weight super washed merino. It’s very light and warm, perfect for chilly evenings on the beach. It has such an elegant drape — it unfurls like silken strands of seaweed.

It’s a Dog’s Life

2011-12-26T16:12:00.001-05:00

If this sweaters seems a bit big in the chest, that’s because this is actually a sweater for a dog named Timba — my friend Jenn's mother’s Lhasa Apso. Phillip the Cat is just my fit model. I wanted to make sure the sleeve placement was directly below the body.

I love this tweedy blue yarn, it’s dog-worthy. The sweater is knit up to the neck and down the body from a central back strap. This design has a lot of opportunity for applying patterns.

The back strap has simple 3 X 3 cable that travels from sleeve to sleeve. The neckline is turned at the chest for a better fit, ending in a reinforced mock turtle collar.

Broad ram’s horns and twisted columns travel down the back over a single rib ground. The body itself is shorter in the under carriage (than on the back). This allows more freedom to... do what dogs naturally do. The garter stitch hem give it more elasticity and stability.

Washed, blocked and pressed flat — this sweater was delivered. Oddly enough it’s going to Florida for now. Maybe I should have made Timba a Guayabara, I don’t know how I would have finished this without Phillip’s help. He’s such a good sport. Thanks again Phillip, there’s a bag of treats with your name on it.

Knit PH @ Prospect Perk Café, Dec. 13, 2011

2011-12-20T13:45:00.001-05:00

Knit PH met at Prospect Perk Café to knit and nosh. The weather lately has actually been warm for December, 62° to be exact. Luise was there first — just off from work. I promised I’d give her a quick tutorial on my Cat Blanket before the year came to an end. I predict that 2012 will be the year of the cat quilt. Chrystal made it all the way from Bushwick by bus. I have to admit that I don’t know where they go on a regular basis. I actually get a little motion sick when I try to read on the bus...stopping... starting, stopping again... etc.

I’ve been working on a new scarf pattern for my Elven Anthropology collection. I was inspired by the soft ribs of sand left behind as the water recedes at day’s end. For lack of a better name I call it Ebb Tide, at least for now. As the temperature steadily drops I’ll need something to remind me of a warm day at the beach.

Christmas will soon be here, yet most haven’t even started shopping for gifts. You have to wonder what posses someone to make their own gifts this late in the game —yet every year we all do it. I know I’ll be running late (again) with a few home-spun gifts; Pat dropped in with her new scarf in progress; Lisa finished her husband’s Hunter Green house slippers — complete with snow-flake pattern.

Adrienne needed a little help finishing off a few things for their daughter, Bird. I helped her through instructions for attaching an I-cord to a baby bonnet. This is an excellent way to clean up raw edges.

These itsy-bitsy booties will keep Bird’s feet warm all winter, until she outgrows them. The safety pin gives you an idea of scale and skill. But Adrienne brought a show-and-tell item which left us all laughing — the Boob-Hider. It’s worn by the baby when nursing in public. Chrystal added “Everyone knows what you’re already doing... so y’know.” She’s also a lactation consultant.

Flatbread Made with Chickpea Flour

2011-12-19T11:03:00.001-05:00

I finally used up the last of the chickpea flour. I made Socca, a type of flatbread or crêpe from Southern France. The ingredients are simple — everything came from my local grocery store. You’ll need a cast iron griddle or a large cast iron pan.

Bean flours are super nutritious foods that are high in protein and fiber and low in fat. They are essential to vegan cooking. Bean flours are also a great alternatives for people who can’t eat wheat products, such as pasta and breads. But when combined with grain, they create a complete protein.

I’ve used the Bob's Red Mill brand, but if you can find it, use Indian Besan. It has a finer mill and makes a smooth thin batter. Socca is typically eaten as street food in the open markets, stuffed with savory things like potatoes and goat cheese. I just ate them fresh out of the oven — socca has a subtle sweet flavor when it’s made fresh.

For this socca recipe and more, visit GardenFork.tv.

Dälahast — How Swede It Is!

2011-12-13T13:00:00.000-05:00

Julälsningar to my Scandinavian readers. That's Swedish for Season’s Greetings. The Dälahast (a.k.a Dala Horse, or Dalecarlian Horse) is a wooden children’s toy traditionally carved over cold long winters in the province of Dalarna. It has become the unofficial symbol of Sweden.

Several types of Dälahast are distinguished by locality. The most typical carvings are painted bright red with graphic details in white, green, yellow and blue. They stand anywhere from 6" to 36" tall, but the largest Dälahast in the world can be found in Avesta Municipality in Sweden. This concrete monument looms above trees at over 42'.

The Dälahast that I made for Tretorn Shoes is 6'3". Henrik is made entirely of Papier Machier, this Swedish steed graces their store front in Soho eagerly greeting Holiday shoppers.

The decorative method of applying two colors on the same brush is called rosemaling — a skilled freehand craft. Rosemal patterns often adorn their woodwork and ceramics. I’m a very big fan of Scandinavian design — traditional and modern. I especially am fond of the graphic patterns and motifs found in their knitting, and of course the organic nature of their furniture — all of these borne of Scandinavian innovation.

But how does one make something so large in a small Brooklyn living room? I mapped out the structure and created a hollow modular pieces. Each piece assembles together precisely.

My assistant, Phillip the Cat, inspected the interior for structural flaws — he approved. The interior of the head and body is a small engineering marvel, built with interior struts to hold its shape and support its weight. The head and legs attach to the body by mortise and tenon.

The entire horse is covered in four to six layers of paper and glue, primed with two coats of gesso, two coats of orange under coat, and a red top coat. These layers of paint give the Dälahast the deepest red. Each piece is decorated separately.

In 1891 Tretorn was founded by Henry Dunker in Helsingborg, Sweden. Although this company is known for fine tennis products, rubber soled boots and sneakers, the company originally produced high quality rubber for tires. Tretorn’s long history of rubber production evolved from tires to tennis balls in 1902 and, later, a complete line of rubber soled sport shoes in 1934. I particularly love their rubber boots. They are exemplary of Swedish design and innovation.

I have to say I’m very proud of Henrik, it was hard to set him free. He’s a handsome fellow, no? Swing by Tretorn if you’re in Soho and say hej to Henrik.

Tretorn
150 Spring St (bet W B'way & Wooster)
New York, NY 10012

The Multi-directional Scarf — a Short Row Exploration

2011-12-11T13:11:00.001-05:00

I recently hosted an instructional knitting circle at Headroom Digital Audio for executive producer Jennifer Hunt’s clients. I introduced the group to the Multi-directional Scarf. This technique lends itself handsomely to scrap yarns, and yarns of variegated color or varying thickness.

Introducing the Multi-directional Scarf

This garter stitch scarf is 24 sts wide, but you can use any reversible pattern as long as it uses an even number of stitches. It’s made in sections that meet obliquely at perpendicular angles. The components are the first and last triangles, and a modular short-row section which you’ll repeat to a desired length. Short row is a method of increasing an area in the middle of your work by turning on a stitch and changing direction —a.k.a. “Wrap and Turn” (W&T). Combined with a series of increases and decreases it gives the usual straight path a diagonal orientation.

You’ll need:
- Worsted weight yarn (400 yds or more)
- US# 6 or 7 SPN
- 1 stitch marker
- Tapestry needle

First Triangle
Cast on 2 sts and work flat. Knit 1 front and back (k1fb), k1, turn.
*K1fb, knit to end of row, turn. rep from * until your triangle is 24 sts wide. Congratulations, you got through the first step.

”Knit 1 Front and Back“ (k1fb) is a type of increase that can be made on every row. Knit into the first st keeping the loop on the left needle. Insert the right needle through the back of that same loop on the left needle and knit that st again.

Modular Triangle
R01: (RS) K1fb, k2tog. Place a marker behind the first st on the left needle. Bring yarn to the front, sl1, return yarn to back, turn.

R02: Sl1, bring yarn to the back, knit to end of row.

Changing the direction in the middle of your work by slipping and wrapping the yarn around a stitch is known as Wrap and Turn (W&T). Consecutive W&T rows increase a specific working area. This method is called Short Row.

R03: (RS) K1fb, knit until 2 sts before the marker, k2tog. Move marker behind the first st on the left needle. Bring yarn to the front, sl1, return yarn to back, turn.
R04: Sl1, bring yarn to the back, knit to end of row.

Repeat R03 and R04. Stop when you have 24 sts on the right needle. Be sure to remove the marker on the last row. Turn and repeat these modular instructions to create as many sections as you want until you have a suitable length for a scarf.

Last Triangle
R01: (RS) K1fb, k2tog. Place a marker behind the first st on the left needle. Bring yarn to the front, sl1, return yarn to back, turn.
R02: Sl1, knit to end of row.
R03: (RS) K1fb, knit until 2 sts before the marker, k2tog. Move marker behind the first st on the left needle. Bring yarn to the front, sl1, return yarn to back, turn.
R04: Sl1, knit to end of row.

Repeat R03 and R04. Stop when you have 2 more st to the left of the marker than on the right on your left needle (11 to the left, 13 to the right).

R05: (RS) k2tog, knit until 2 sts before the marker, k2tog. Move marker behind the first st on the left needle. Bring yarn to the front, sl1, return yarn to back, turn.
R06: Sl1, knit to end of row.

Repeat R05 and R06 until you have 4 sts on the left needle. Remove marker and finish this section as such: K2tog, k2tog, turn, k2tog. Cut yarn and sew in ends with a tapestry needle. Wash and air dry flat, There you have it, the Multi-direction Scarf.

A Well Earned Cat Nap

2011-12-04T16:13:00.001-05:00

Poor Sockey, he never stood a chance. His little red eye blinked neath the weight of this vicious sweater-clad killer. A long drawn out pursuit of stalking and hunting stuffed critters has left Phillip worn out. It’s time he took a well earned nap to recharge his batteries... until dinner of course.

Off the to cat quilt he went with a blue mouse in tow. I have to say this cat quilt was a brilliant idea. Phillip now prefers this to napping on my sweaters.

This tough guy is getting sleepy, his big cats eyes are getting heavier and heavier. Time to tuck him in.

Yawn.. stretch... he’s out. What do you suppose he dreams about anyway? Sweet dreams my Brooklyn beast, there will be more things to chase tomorrow.

Knit PH @ Freddy's Bar, Nov. 27, '11

2011-11-29T09:13:00.001-05:00

Scene from a yarn shop: “Where’s the merino wool?” I pointed the way. “What’s the gauge for making socks with worsted weight?”, “Around 5 sts per inch on #6.” I estimated, but I recommended smaller needles and a finer yarn — which I showed her. “Well, I'm not giving you $60 to make socks!" she baulked. I finally said "Lady, I don't work here.”

I shopped locally, but on Black Friday shoppers stormed department stores and malls. The news reported of a few macing and tazing incidents between agitated shoppers... I can’t imagine macing someone over an Xbox, but sales and stocks were up over the weekend.

Meanwhile in Greenwood Heights, Knit PH met at Freddy’s Bar for a quiet post Thankgiving circle. Busy evening, Daedelus Design & Production wrapped up their Annual Turducken Holiday party to give us the back room. I was offered pie but declined, I was still recovering from Thanksgiving.

Time to break out those UFOs. We had some new knitting stragglers. Crystal bussed it all the way from Bushwick with her sweater on the needle; Lauren brought her crochet shawl from just a few blocks away. Nancy and Pat sat with us for a bit as a few people walked into the room astounded that people actually knit over a beer or two.

Tracey is starting a new sweater, but this time not for her dogs; Elena is in mid-scarf; I skeined up most of my hanks. Although “hank” and “skein” are words that are often used interchangeably, they do have specific meaning. A hank is large loosely wound wheel of yarn sold by length. It’s usually sold twisted into itself like a donut twist. A skein is an oblong ball of yarn sold by weight and length. On a commercial level, yarn is sold on cones by weight.

I always bring the swift and wool winder to the meet-up at Freddy's Bar. It’s a good motivator to get your stash balled up and ready for the next project. As our length of time drew to it’s knotted end we cleaned up and made room for the Open Mic spoken word group. I told everyone to think about the mid-winter yarn trade and pot luck dinner, but I’m sure no one has food on their mind at the moment. Thanks giving has left us, but I'm still thankful for many things, among them great friends and family.

The Quilted Cat

2011-11-16T09:48:00.001-05:00

This will be Phillips the Cat’s second winter here. No longer a shy cat reclaimed from a Brooklyn street, he’s claimed our couch, two chairs, the bath tub, and the foot of our bed... and he’s also brazenly claimed my bulky raglan sweater. I think it’s time to make him a cat quilt to ease up on his apartment expeditions.

The yarn is a gift from my friends Dan and Caroline from their trip to Morocco. It’s has a very rustic character — twigs, straw, and all. I love the natural color of the wool with flecks of gray and brown. This yarn is quite durable, it’s spun for the rug making trade.

This fractal-based knit is inspired by Nora Gaughan’s book, “Knitting Nature.” Much like an actual quilt, it’s made with modular units that are picked up from adjacent edges. It’s an excellent use of left-over yarns of the same weight.

Ms. Gaughan might cast a raised eyebrow on this sort of feline finery, but I need my sweater back. Winter is fast on it’s way. So far Phillip seems to appreciate woolen fractals.

Knit PH @ Prospect Perk, Nov. 8, 2011

2011-11-11T10:02:00.001-05:00

From the café window I could see the large Christmas snowflakes already hung from every lamp post along Flatbush, yet we’re not even close to Thanks Giving. This early decorative expo is a call to all of us to shop. It would seem that an economic recovery relies largely on conspicuous consumption. As a country, does America actually make anything anymore or do we just consume? I reflected on this recession over a slice of lemon pound cake and cocoa.

Well our group certainly makes lots of stuff. Lisa is making her hubby a pair of house slippers — she adjusted the pattern for size extra-extra large. Adrienne is outfitting her baby girl. She also needed to get out of the house for a bit and socialize — new mom syndrome. Meredith is making a specialized shawl she calls “The Boob Hider.” It provides privacy while nursing in public. Mai is making a cashmere hat from a salvaged sweater. That's a smart move, she often looks at knitwear that can be frogged into yarn. I suggested she wear a mask, ripping a sweater out makes a lot of dust. Amy popped in to grab a coffee and to show off her alpaca scarf. I like our funny little group, we meet at Prospect Perk Café every second Tuesday.

Aside from a few gifts, I’m making an A-line poncho for fashion designer and illustrator Ying Su. We met last week to go over the design and fibers. Initially we focused on texture. I ran Patons Superwash (ecru) with two colors of a lace-weight Merino (warm gray and camel) to get a bulky yet subtle tweed. I tend to think of the poncho as retro, although most women say it’s timeless. I hope the dreaded “Mancho” has met it’s woolly end. As with Clint Eastwood, it only works if you’re sporting a rifle and riding into town on a horse.

In the eyes of a fashion designer, most hand-knit garments are considered to be over-worked. Ying’s work is simple and elegant. The clean lines of her poncho emphasize the fern pattern that travels down the front — from the over-sized collar down into the body. A wide column of 2 X 1 ribs meet diverging seams at the back.

Time Falls Back in Cold Spring

2011-11-07T16:51:00.002-05:00

Janice and Adam went without power for a few days after another storm pelted the north east last week, but all is getting back to normal. Yet some of our friends are still in the dark. Unusual weather has become the usual in 2011. It’s autumn in Cold Spring and the clock is set back to give us one more hour of daylight. That extra hour is exactly what we needed this weekend — the porch is finally finished.

Janice told me that the boys asked why they didn’t get their Tony hats last year. I just thought they outgrew the home-spun gifts. So this weekend I made Jesse a ski cap, and Ellis, a ribbed watchman’s cap. After unraveling and joining all the swatches and scraps from Troy’s cowl there was even enough SWTC Saphira to make a small pompom for Jesse’s cap. To my surprise the boys were very excited. Don’t these little gentlemen look so handsome in their warm winter gear?

Janice and Adam are ready for winter too. The porch looks almost brand new after sanding, two coats of outdoor enamel, and replacing a few planks. I can’t say enough about the wonders of Bondo and a good quality paint — so shiny and clean. I’ll be back in the Spring to work on the front steps.

Every post has been capped and every rail primed and painted. Jesse made a winter-inspired Lego snowman that looks at home on this post.

We had excellent weather and some hearty family meals over the weekend. Janice made a Peruvian pulled pork served with mango salsa and stuffed acorn squash. I made a hand-rolled gnocchi dinner with garden fresh sage butter and lemon zest for Sunday dinner. For dessert we ate most of the Halloween candy — oops, sorry kids.

The mums are out but so are the hungry deer — may the twain never meet. The autumn leaves are now turning red and gold as the sun sets lower on this Hudson River town’s horizon. It casts a peach-colored glow that pushes long shadows down cold streets. I swept away the spider webs which hung with pearls of dew strung between the ivory rails and admired our handiwork. I said goodbye to the porch, packed up my tools, and headed back to Brooklyn.

A Scandalous Cowl

2011-10-30T23:32:00.000-04:00

Washed, pressed, and ready to wear for this evening — this merino and silk ribbon man’s cowl was made for masked crusader, Troy Samaroo. He travels for work often and needs something warm and versatile to wear over or under his coat. But mostly he wanted something slightly unusual to wear for Halloween — super villains beware, a Scandalous Cowl is on the prowl.

We looked at a selection of fine yarns at Stitch Therapy. Maxcine has some beautiful yarns in the shop for winter. Among them are two luxury yarns: a deep saffron merino, SWTC Saphira; and a variegated hand-painted copper silk ribbon, Karabella Silk Organzina.

I sketched out a few basic ideas until we arrived at a favorable design. Troy’s signature contribution was a single archery-inspired sleeve guard — the Elves of Rivendale would be envious. I calculated 131 yards at 8 skeins of Saphira to marl intermittently with 92 yards of Silk Organzina at 3 skeins to create rustic striations and a deep texture.

Three gauges of needles create a smooth taper as the cable patterns transition into each other. Traveling ribs twist their way down the collar into a body of cabled lattice. The double silk hem adds stability and masculine elegance to this man’s garment.

The single left-hand sleeve is knit into the cowl at the neckline, which is reinforced at the front to make the cowl roll. The thumb hole is a minor detail but it makes this sleeve feel more like gear. The simple cable pattern runs up the arm picking up from the same patterns in the body. The result is a handsome, exquisite Scandalous Cowl.

Multi-directional Misnomer

2011-10-29T11:55:00.000-04:00

Snow is sticking to cars and trees like a cold wet blanket. Fall looks more like winter today as Wall Street is occupied by protesters who attempt to exorcise the specter of corporate greed, job creation moves at a zombie-like pace, our middle-class is weakened and more vulnerable to economic plunder, and our nation seems to have taken on extremely opposing political directions... and Halloween is here. This sounds more like the prologue from a movie about the Black Plague, doesn’t it?

On this cold wet night our group is going as a clan of cave people. Actually, we’re all going as our friend Chris who hosts his annual Halloween party dressed as a cave man. Luckily the party is just down the block. I made Stephanie a thick woolly scarf from six balls of of S. Charles “Natasaha” — a bulky luxury yarn made with 38% Wool, 33% acrylic, 24% Alpaca, and 5% Nylon. I got the last seven balls from Stitch Therapy. Who knew a cave woman could have it so good.

The Multi-directional Scarf, as it is called, is more of a misnomer. Much like our American politics it actually only has two directions that oppose each other obliquely. This method complements the character variegated yarns or yarns with varying thickness. It gives “Natasha” the appearance of fine Persian lamb. For a detailed tutorial click here.

Similar in technique to Entrelac, this scarf is knit in sections that meet perpendicularly. You can use any reversible pattern that has an even number of stitches.

A ribbed pattern using the same multi-directional method gives quite a dramatic result — soft elegant waves. By changing the direction in the middle of your work by slipping and wrapping the yarn around a stitch (W&T) increases the specific work area — this is called short row. Combined with a series of increases and decreases it creates a diagonal orientation.

The components of this Multi-direction Scarf are the first and last triangles, and a modular short-row section which is repeated to a desired length.

Feline Finery — A Cat V-neck Vest

2011-10-18T20:09:00.003-04:00

Here’s a versatile investment for any cat’s wardrobe: a red cabled V-neck vest. It gives any house cat a smart, clean look for the Holidays. It also hides his cat gut. I wonder where Phillip put his glasses. The collar is set higher into the back. This compensates for the position of his front legs.

The construction of this vest might seem odd to anyone other than a cat. It’s looks more like a backwards A-line shirt. The chest area is shorter than the back, off-setting the neck line farther into the back. The V-neck helps define the front. The armholes are set directly below the chest as opposed to left and right placement to the body. Otherwise the ribbed facings are picked up and knit just as any sweater.

With larger armholes the vest allows Phillip more freedom of movement. He can easily go from destroying the couch to destroying the bed quilt with such ease.

But how can one keep a cat vest fur-free? I have a feeling one has to accept the improbability.

Cat Mock Turtle

2011-10-14T11:35:00.000-04:00

A woman asked me if I'd make her dog a sweater. I replied no... but... who said I wouldn't make our cat a hand-knit sweater? This jaunty mock turtle suits Phillip the cat just fine. This acrylic cat-casual is based on a raglan construction with the sleeves centered down in the front... or is it the bottom?

When I design a garment I keep body type of the wearer in mind. For Phillip’s sweater, the chest and the elbows are turned for a better fit. It’s made for lounging around on a lazy day, which is what Phillip does on most days. But upon closer observation the waste might be a bit tight or too short, it rides up when he walks. I see a cardigan with pockets in Phillips future.

Zuki — a Cherished Moment

2011-10-04T11:02:00.000-04:00

“Thank You” by Paloma Baillie, 2011
H graphite pencil on printer stock, 8 1/2" X 11"

Sometimes art is a bolder reflection of life, than life itself. Often we cherish things that are simply intangible to others — snow globes, hand-me-down sweaters, a lock of hair, an envelope with baby teeth, old photos, letters and postcards. In Buddhist philosophy an attachment to a permanent self in a world of change causes suffering. But these possessions aren’t really what we keep. They are only souvenirs of an experience that enriched one’s life.

Much like this drawing of Zuki from possibly my youngest fan, a bean filled possession has gone far beyond what any one person can hold in their hands. Of all the flattering things, this drawing is high on my list. “Thank You” Paloma B.!

A Ginger Spiced Pork Pie at Brooklyn’s Atlantic Antic

2011-10-02T18:15:00.000-04:00

I made a few adjustments to my Kings County Pork Pie hat pattern using Rowan Wool Cotton. It still needed to be washed and pressed but I wanted to wear it to the Atlantic Antic to see Les Sans Culottes. This hat is so light-weight and breathable, but mostly it kept my head warn on this crowded, chilly fall afternoon.

Men in black— Jacques, Clermont, and Pomme grab a beer at Last Exit bar.

Band leader and French ex-pat, Clermont Ferrand, en route to the stage

Tous de la bande, Les Sans Culottes — Clermont Ferrand (l'homme de tête). Kit Kat Le Noir and Courtney Louvre (les chanteuses deux), M. Pommes Frites (la basse), Tres Semmé (la guitare) Johnny Dieppe (le clavier), Jacques Strappe (la batterie)

Madame Courtney warming up her vocals on a chilly day

The music was sweet, the street food was delicious, and the crowd screamed “Encore!” Notice the stroller brigade.

This crowd gets younger and younger each year. Where did their parents go?

Antoine, Janice, and family — this was a long day for the girls.

Adrianne looked surprised. I wonder what Katie just told her.

Tom and Michelle bobbed to French power-pop rock in a sea of people.

Troy and Pat hold court off of Court Street.

The youngest fan of all — Kit Kat kisses baby Delphine’s sweet little dancing feet. I wish I could have stayed longer, but my allergies were killing me. October is allergy season and I got the whole fall package this year — sneezing, itching, runny nose, dry eyes.

The gang went bar crawling and I wandered home sneezing. I made some coffee and revised my hat pattern with a simple side band. It’s optional but it adds an understated detail, and it accommodates minor adjustments within hat sizes.

Rowan Wool Cotton is a 50/50 merino blend that is so soft and elastic that it makes any hat feel like freshly baked bread. I particularly love this warm color (SH: 00965 / LOT: 3373). It’s the color of the best ginger snap you’ve ever had. Here’s a closer look with my friend Justin, he’s a busy man who wears many hats.

Can’t Beet a Good Burger?

2011-09-27T21:54:00.000-04:00

Every fall I look forward to candied red beets, my favorite autumn treat with a flavor as deep and complex as its color. Rich, dark, earthy and sweet as candy — it’s my favorite way of dressing up that same-old-same-old burger. Put those pickles away, it’s time you met the Candied Beet Burger. These beauties came from my friend Eric’s garden.

Beets are naturally high in sugar and range in colors from dark yellow to pumpkin orange to the deepest burgundy red. I’m not so keen on canned beets, they are best when you roast or boil them yourself. It's not hard to do but it can get messy. Here are some instructions.

Candied Red Beets
You have to cook them first. Select beets of similar size to ensure even cooking, remove the greens then soak and wash them thoroughly to remove any grit. Peel them after they are cooked and have cooled down. Larger beets (over 2" in diameter) are best roasted in your oven. Otherwise you can just boil smaller beets (under 2").

Baking instructions for large beets:
Lightly coat the beets (with skins) with Canola oil and place in a baking dish. Set oven to 300°, cover dish with tin foil and bake for about an hour. When you can stick a fork through the skin your beets are done.

Boiling instructions for small beets:
In a large pot bring water to a boil. Place beets (with skins) into the water. There should be enough water should cover the beets. Lover heat to medium, cover and cook for about an hour. When you can stick a fork through the skin your beets are done.

Now this part can be a mess that resembles a CSI crime scene. If you don’t own a paper Hazmat suit wear an apron and put down lots of newspaper over your working area, you might want to wear gloves too. Drain the beets in a large colander and let beets cool enough to handle. Cut off the root tips and crown. To peel use a butter knife. The peels should rub off easily, but if not just use a vegetable peeler.

Candying instructions:
- 1/8 tsp of each: powdered ginger, sea salt, cumin (optional)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar.
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cups sliced cooked beets
- Large covered sauce pan

You should make enough for the week, but work in smaller batches. Bring a large sauce pan to medium heat and add enough honey to cover the bottom. Add dry ingredients and dissolve into honey. Slice beets into rounds that are about 3/8 of an inch thick and place beets in a bowl to collect the red liquid. Place beets and juice into the pan to a depth of two layers. Add the rest of honey and stir. Cover and cook for half an hour stirring every 10 minutes. The beets are done when you can put a fork through their centers. Remove from heat and let them cool. Place beets with juice in a covered container and store refrigerated. Use these on you burger instead of pickles. Now... does anyone have a good tip for getting beet stains out of a wooden counter top?

Identity Crises Resolved

2011-09-24T17:37:00.000-04:00

Finally! After pondering a plethora of mood boards, look books, color systems, iconography and logotypes... I have arrived at the perfect logo for The Yarn Monkey™. A logo is the cornerstone of an identity system that visually communicates the brand’s personality— playful, creative, innovative, reliable. It takes a focused vision and critical thinking to design a unique logo that will live through out a variety of media.

But what is a brand? Throughout the late ‘90s its meaning became diluted into a confusing PR buzz word that became further confused through unfocused marketing campaigns. If one is trying to “think out of the box” too often, there must be something wrong with that box. Brands often suffer from an identity crisis in this day and age, most people do not know the difference between Toyota and Honda. And much like a reliable car a brand needs care and maintenance.

Simply put, a brand is the idea or conceptual image of a product or service. It identifies a company or product by name, logo, slogan, and philosophy. In a digital age, branding is integral to websites and blogs, as it allows a company to expand its reputation directly with the people it serves. The Yarn Monkey™ is a brand of Softwear Patterns for People Who Knit & Crochet... now back to work on my online pattern store.

Kimchi Jigae on a Gloomy Day

2011-09-20T14:02:00.000-04:00

Kimchi Jigae, or kimchi soup, is one of my favorite Korean winter dishes. As our weather quickly moves towards fall, I find myself battling a sinus infection. This soup just might be the cure... or least a delicious home-made kitchen remedy on a clammy overcast day. It’s spicy enough to knock out an on coming cold.

I first had this stew in Flushing, Queens. Thinly sliced kimchi, vegetables, and aromatic spices stewed in a home-made stock — the key to this dish is slow, low cooking. I like mine topped with lots of sweet corn, but the traditional garnish is green onion. For this savory Korean Kimchi Soup recipe go to GardenFork.tv.

The Two-color Zuki — Hand-knit for the Handheld

2011-09-19T17:40:00.004-04:00

The Zuki Cell Phone Caddy is SoftWear made for the handheld generation. Here’s the final version of Zuki made with two colors of Misti Alpaca worsted weight yarn — soldier blue and dove gray. The eyes and ears are crocheted as one piece and sewn onto each side. The body is knit in two types of durable stitches — woven stitch for the uppers and sock stitch for the belly. Although it’s filled with dried Azuki beans you could use plastic beads. The pattern is written for the iPhone and Blackberry. Soon you can make your own Zuki.

Blue Zuki iPhone Caddy

2011-09-16T13:56:00.001-04:00

OK Paloma, if you’re reading my blog it’s no surprise, I finally got around to finishing your Zuki iPhone caddy in your favorite shade of blue. It goes in the mail tomorrow bound for L.A . — Happy Belated Birthday and don’t text while walking!

I was very flattered — of all the things that a very hip tween wanted for her birthday, my friend Dawn’s daughter requested my Zuki cell phone caddy. Everything is just late, and as of late I’ve been busy developing Zuki’s big brother, the Wombat® iPad Tech Pillow. This Zuki is a vast improvement over the first one. It’s now 200% cuter. In other news, Tom and I have are close to getting the Wombat® into production and out to market. Cheers to TomTone Industries!

This bean bag caddy uses a combination of crochet and knitting techniques. The upper portion is knit in Woven Stitch. The eyes, ears, base and trim are crocheted. Check out Blue Zuki with Justin’s iPhone, shot at Prospect Perk Café. That’s Justin’s dog Rector in Zuki’s mouth.. or hands, or is it a pouch...

Pear-Apple Sauce

2011-09-14T19:15:00.003-04:00

My friend Eric gave us a bag of pears and apples from his yard, I made sauce from the ones that were bruised. Apple sauce is super easy to make and pears give it a nice texture.

Pear Apple Sauce
Peel and core the apples and pears, and get rid of the bruised portions. Cut them into 1" pieces then soak them in a large pot of cold water of with juice from half a lemon. Soak for 20 minutes and drain.

You’ll need:
- 8 cups of apple and pear, cut and cleaned
- half cup water
- 1/8 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp powdered ginger
- 1/2 a lemon for soaking and for zest
- a large sauce pan with a lid
- wooden spoon

In a sauce pan bring water to a boil and dissolve sugar, then add apple and pear pieces. Lower temperature to medium and cover for 10 minutes. Now add lemon zest, cinnamon, salt, and ginger. Mash the apples and pears with a wooden spoon, stir and return cover. Mash and stir about every 10 minutes so that it doesn’t caramelize. In about 45 minutes or so you’ll have a sweet, tangy rustic sauce.

I like the lumps, they go well with oatmeal. But if you want a very smooth texture run the sauce through a ricer, a food mill, or blender. Store it jarred in the fridge to prevent you from eating the whole batch. For Eric’s video on making apple sauce go to GardenFork.tv.

Zucchini and Corn Fritters

2011-09-10T19:37:00.002-04:00

The weather is quickly changing, it's much cooler and the sun is setting earlier. Time to make some dinner. This end-of-summer meal, Zucchini and Corn Fritters, is fresh from my Eric’s garden. I got the last harvest. I think of this type of recipe as typhoon food. We made a lot of fritters during that summer-long blackout of Typhoon Pamela (1976). This recipe combines dried and fresh ingredients.

This dish is typically made with young green squash, but just use a zucchini. You can also use a young pumpkin, the color is pretty. Use fresh or frozen corn, either works fine.

The spices lend an island flavor: cumin, oregano, chili and garlic. The version of this recipe is vegetarian (not vegan) but if you wanted a more authentic flavor, add minced dried shrimp to the batter and fry a piece of dried chili in the cooking oil. For this Zucchini and Corn Fritter recipe and tips on frying crisp, golden fritters, visit Gardenfork.tv.

A Tropical Treasure — Blue Mahoe Hardwood Needles

2011-09-08T02:07:00.000-04:00

I'm branding a new line of knitting tools for Stitch Therapy. Proprietor, Maxcine Degouttes, arrived back from a working vacation in Jamaica with her line of handcrafted knitting needles made from Blue Mahoe (Talipariti elatum), an exotic Caribbean hardwood that has striations that range from ebony and cream to blueish-gray and pale violet — no two cuts of wood are ever alike. Turning, sanding, and varnishing the wood on a lathe enhances the subtle detail and color.

Talipariti elatum is an arboreal hibiscus that grows quite rapidly, reaching heights of 60 feet or more at maturity. It is ecologically sustainable and forested regularly. One of its natural qualities is resistance to rot which lends lends itself to making to make musical instruments, storage cases, architectural details, and hardwood floors. These hardwood needles feel good in my hands — light weight and smooth. The mahogany cap adds a bit of warmth to the palette. But most of all these single points look stunning. BTW, these are mine.

Last BBQ of the Season at Freddy’s Bar — September 5, 2011

2011-09-07T20:45:00.001-04:00

A mountain of food magically reappears— this is round three.

The Memorial Day BBQ is the last one of the season — a toast to the official end of summer. Pat O'Shea and I grilled afternoon into evening at Freddy’s Bar. As the days grow short and the leaves fall, may we all recall the good times and the wonderful flavors of summer: Ellen’s wasabi potato salad, Josh’s potato and bacon salad, Diane’s famous fudge, Clara’s deviled eggs, Anna’s BBQ chili chicken, Rick James’ jerk chicken patties... corn on the cob, grilled pineapple, fresh anchovies, veggie dogs and patties, German bratwurst, Polish Kielbasa, kimchi relish... great weather, grilled food, old and new friends, good times.

The grill calls and a crowd assembles.

It’s not a dive bar unless you have a decent-size backyard shark.

I can caramelize a pineapple with EVO but what can one make from "UVU?"

People wait patiently for a burger as Clara shares her delicious deviled eggs.

Jer, Freddy’s partner Matty Kuhn, and Tom are at the front of the line.. again.

Dogs, bratts, burgers, kielbasa, BBQ chicken....

Of course we had a few vegetarians...

Will spiced things up with freshly brined anchovies and Polish mustard.

This little sneaky fella is waiting for something to stray from a plate.

Cat Nip Bagel for Breakfast

2011-09-01T10:49:00.008-04:00

The act of play is a healthy instinct for people and pets, so I try to keep Phillip the cat entertained with scrap yarn toys — otherwise he destroys the couch. I think every New York cat needs a Cat Nip Bagel, so make one for breakfast.

Crochet a Cat Nip Bagel

You’ll need a US C hook (2.5 mm) and some left over medium to DK weight yarn.

Side One
Chain 5. Join yarn
R01: 14 sc into ring. (st total: 14)
R02: 14 sc into top of chain.
R03 and R04: 14 sc to end.
R05: Sc twice in each stitch. (28)
R06: 28 sc.
R07: *6 sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times. (32)
R08: *sc, 2 sc in next stitch; repeat from * 7 more times. (48)
R09 to R11: 48 sc.
R10: Sl st between posts to end. Cut yarn, sew in ends.( st total: 48)

Side Two
Pick up 14 sc from R01 of Side One, then repeat R02 to R10. Stuff with batting and sew sides closed.

Don’t make it heavy or too large. Cats like things that they can bite into and carry. My assistant, Phillip the cat, will demonstrate it’s mesmerizing properties. Now fill the bagel hole with cat nip and stand back.

What Do Cats Want?

This is an age-old question that will always remain a mystery. But after a bit of research and vet question, I have good idea as to what cats see — more subtle shades of gray than any Midtown fashion victim could ever sport in a lifetime. By nature they are nocturnal creatures whose eyes are hair-trigger sensitive to motion in low light.

Humans and primates perceive colors in combinations of red, green and blue but cats do not perceive red. After much animal testing I found that Phillip the cat prefers yellow, gray, and blue toys... and much to our disgust, a dirty frayed 3" piece of white packing string.

Trilby — A Study in Clothesline Crochet

2011-08-29T13:32:00.010-04:00

This Trilby hat is a study in a corded crochet technique better known as “Clothesline Crochet.” This technique is actually the basic building block of Irish filigree crochet, where in a stiff cord is carried along a single-crochet row. Here’s a link to a quick tutorial.

The hat is eponymous with the tone-deaf heroine, Trilby O’Ferrall, from the George du Maurier novel (1894). Originally worn as a woman’s hat, it’s retro-popularity was resurrected by the likes of leading men Frank Sinatra, James Bond, of course The Blues Brothers and my favorite shady pathologist, Dexter.

The Tribly is similar to the Fedora but with a firm shorter brim up-turned in the back. I made this crochet hat with a more prominent grade to the front and an oblique oval crown instead of a classic teardrop.

This Trilby is made with Classic Elite Provence (100% mercerized cotton). I came up with a modified single crochet stitch that I call “Straw Braid” — it really does resemble the fine braid used on straw hats. The Clothesline Crochet technique keeps the crown and brim firm — a thicker cord on the crown than on the brim.

After Irene

2011-08-29T10:21:00.008-04:00

After tropical storm Irene, Monday morning is slowly coming together in Brooklyn — shutters and boards have come down, streets are mostly swept, trains and buses are returning. While things are not so bad here, our social network reported that Irene left some of our friends without power or water. Many east coast towns are now coping with the loss of property, and for some the loss of lives. My sister Tes reminded me that as catastrophic and severe as the typhoons on Guam were, there was always good that came with the bad — so look at the good. As the rain subsided we went out for a neighborhood walk.

Not much damage to speak of here in Prospect Heights. A downed tree drew helpful neighbors on the corner of St. John and Underhill. Some cars we actually spared by the low brick fence.

The streets were virtually empty except a few cars and people with dogs who were cooped up all Saturday, most were heading to the park. Without the usual crowds and traffic one gets a full appreciation of how grand Grand Army Plaza is. I often walk through the arch as a short cut to the weekend green market.

This overpass in Prospect Park takes on a surreal and even more charming appeal with its own pond. There were surprisingly only a few trees that sustained wind damage in the park — mostly sheered tops of trees and fallen branches but nothing completely uprooted. The story was quire different in other neighborhoods with many older trees toppled into streets.

New temporary lakes sprung up in the park’s Long Meadow. Once the grazing area for sheep herders, it’s now a hub of entertainment for people and their dogs. A few people flew kites. But as the wind picked again and the sky darkened, police and rangers reminded us to evacuate as they closed the park to the public.

Time to get home for dinner, tend to the cat, and to see what’s on the news. I made enough chili to last us through the storm, and more than enough to give to our friends Matt and Adrianne (chips and all). Sometimes you have to stop and be thankful for loved ones, good friends, a funny little pet, and a hot home-cooked meal.

Firming Things Up — Clothesline Crochet Basics

2011-08-28T12:25:00.013-04:00

The tail of the now downgraded tropical storm Irene has just left us. Although there was flooding in low lying areas, damage to the city seems minimal so far. We stepped out for a drink with friends at Sharlene’s Bar last night but left when once weather turned. The sun is peaking out now and it’s time to break out the clothesline.

Clothesline Crochet Demonstration
This technique is similar to the padded construction of Irish filigree crochet but used less decoratively. It’s made by carrying a thicker cord, such as cotton clothesline, inside a densely wrapped row of single crochet. For this demonstration I’m using Classic Elite Provence (100% mercerized cotton, 256 yds) over a linen burlap cord. The stitch in this demonstration is called “Straw Braid” — a modified single crochet stitch created by yours truly. After looking around on the web and Ravelry, I think I actually came up with an original stitch. Work slowly and adjust cord tension every two inches or so.

Step 1: With a loop on your hook, drape the cord over the hook. Insert the hook through the vertical strand closest to the hook’s tip and top chain of the next stitch on the previous row.

Step 2: Draw a loop through both the top of the chain and the vertical strand. You should have two loops on the hook.

Step 3: Now draw a loop through these last two loops while “catching” the cord. Now, you should have one loop on your hook. Repeat these three steps.

This technique creates a thicker, less pliable fabric that’s suitable for bags, baskets, backpacks, trimmed piping, the crown and brim of hats... etc., anything that requires more structure.

I used an actual cotton clothesline in the crown of this Trilby hat (left). It gives the Straw Braid stitch a padded look. The side band (right) is also made with the Straw Braid stitch without the linen cord. It has a flatter surface and looks more... well.. like braided straw ribbon.

Hats Off to Brett Bara!

2011-08-25T19:16:00.006-04:00

The entire East Coast was just rocked by a 5.8 tremor... and now we brace ourselves for a hurricane? But neither earthquake nor the impending doom of Hurricane Irene can hold me back. Freshly pressed and ironed on this soggy day, I just sent off three Kings County Pork Pies to crafty maven Brett Bara for her book on crochet accessories (Interweave Books). I’m very proud to be included in her project along with many other talented folks.

This hat pattern is written for men's sizes small, medium, and large and includes special instructions for Tunisian Crochet. Now back to proofing more patterns for The Yarn Monkey store.

Ear-buds — Softwear for the BlackBerry

2011-08-22T10:57:00.005-04:00

What do you do with three yards of DK silk? Pimp up the volume on your BlackBerry with silk ear buds. With a C hook, make an adjustable ring cast-on and close it with a slip stitch.

R01: 10 sc, then tighten ring cast-on. Do not join round.
R02: *Sc in top of ch, 2 sc into of chain into next st; rep from * to end of round.
R03 to R05: Sc in top of ch to end of round (St total: 15).

Cut yarn. Fit over ear piece then gather and sew the tail through the open edge with a tapestry needle. Make another one. These make a better cat toy than the original foam buds that came with the phone.

Ironing Out the Details

2011-08-15T19:05:00.016-04:00

Heat waves, hail storms, flooding streets, driving rain — this summer, Brooklyn feels more like a pizza oven or a swamp. Either way, it’s good to keep a hat in your bag along with an umbrella... one of them will come in handy.

If you’re like me, you probably have a drawer of hats in different states of crumple. To keep your cotton hat crisp and clean all summer long you don’t need a wooden hat block, but you will need a decent iron and spray starch. My mustard yellow Kings County Pork Pie Hat is super soft, made with 100% Rowan Pima Cotton. It will be one the crochet projects in crafty lady, Brett Bara’s, new book from Interweave Books.

Wash and Dry

First remove any big decoration... braids, band, clasp, buckle, buttons... then hand-wash your hat with a gentle fabric wash or baby shampoo. Let it soak for a couple hours to allow the fibers expand. A teaspoon of white vinegar to early gallon of water breaks down hair oils. Rinse well and gently press out most of the water in a towel — don’t use the death grip. Air-dry your hat flat. To speed up drying time lay a box fan flat and place your hat on top.

Block and Press
To shape the crown, I use the bottom of a round cookie tin as a hat block — a coffee can works well too. The base should be a bit smaller than the width of the crown. Set your iron to the correct fiber setting (in this case, 100% cotton) and gently press into the fabric moving slowly with a small circular motion, adjusting the hat as you need. Don’t use the steam setting.

Place a small face towel over the block and set the hat on top, right side up. Lightly spray with starch and iron until the starch dries. Repeat until the crown is firm but pliable. Be sure to press into the creases with the tip of your iron.

Turn the hat inside out, then spray and iron the crown as before. Starch tends to build up on the iron and burn, so clean it often by spraying the ironing surface with water and wiping it clean with a towel.

Lay the hat on a towel, spray and iron the inside — from brim to the crown. Rotate the hat as you iron the interior of the hat. Now iron the outside of the hat the same way. Be sure to iron the welt at the edge of the crown.

Straighten the brim. Spray and iron the brim as before, rotating the hat as you press. Re-attach any decoration, and off you go to the beach. That wasn’t so hard, was it? Keeping your hat in good shape is much easier than keeping yourself in shape, but that’s a different issue.

Handle with Care

2011-07-29T09:57:00.002-04:00

Sometime today (or tomorrow) a mysterious package will arrive in Baltimore via USPS ground — a care package for my friends and Josh and Megan... and Weens and Pizazz. Inside this rather large box of crushed paper and bubble wrap are a few small but well packaged treats: assorted crochet key chain fobs and cat toys, and my home-made Gochuchang (Korean chili paste) and Baechu (Napa cabbage kimchi). I’m not so good with baked goods.

Fobs and cat toys: two dumplings and three bees

In theory Weens and Pizazz do not perceive the color red, so I made these toys in shades of yellow, green, and blue. So... in theory cats may not see kimchi but Megan can spot this jar from another state. I reminded her not to eat the whole jar in one sitting — or suffer the gastrointestinal consequences. For this kimchi recipe visit GardenFork.tv.

Korean delights — home-made Gochughang and Kimchi

The Red Phoenix Rises

2011-07-27T11:39:00.006-04:00

We all seemed to have survives the heat wave over the weekend — highs in the 100s. It’s funny when 90° weather feels like a holiday. Dan and Caroline just got back from an Italian get-away. Although they had some hot days, I suspect it’s more charming abroad — the food was incredible! They brought back some squid ink risotto and herbed gray salt for me and Stephanie.

I made the Red Phoenix shrug for Caroline Glemann for her wedding... and she stills wears it well. Caroline designs exquisite jewelry, among them, Stephanie’s engagement ring. I took some prosperity photos at Liloveve, her jewelry studio.

The Red Phoenix shrug is made with the deepest-red antique cotton and silk using a combination of hairpin lace and traditional crochet. This inspired the white Way Wedding Shrug that I designed for Vogue Knitting’s Wedding Issue.

I love these sleeves, they make Caroline look like at Elven Queen.
The arching shapes were ispired by a type of beautiful red seaweed from Ireland called Dillisk. The Chinese refer to this style of long flowing sleeves are Phoenix. Hence the name. But I think it also reminds me of Jean Grey, the Phoenix from the X-men.

Armed and ready, Dan sat for a few with his hooded Green Ranger scarf. Seated here are an Elven Queen and a Dwarf King. Only a little prince or princess could complete this perfect mid-summer’s still life.

Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella

2011-07-22T14:45:00.005-04:00

The entire East Coast is stung by a massive heatwave. In Brooklyn it’s already over 100° in full humidity, and most of us have already experienced borough wide brown-outs. Angry cyclists collide with angry double-wide strollers. Pedestrians wade through a dusty sea of traffic. People are hot and testy — I just think they didn't have a proper meal. Today I kept my cool with some sliced tomatoes and fresh Mozzarella for lunch.

You'll need:
• 1 vine-ripe tomato
• fresh mozzarella
• fresh basil
• first-press olive oil
• 1 medium size garlic clove, minced
• pinch of salt

Make some garlic paste — mince the garlic and salt in 1 tbsp of olive oil. Slice mozzarella and coat it lightly in the garlic paste. Mince fresh basil. On a plate, alternate slices of cheese and tomato with some basil in between. Drizzle with more oil and serve with a good crusty bread

Summer Salad Topped with Maple Blue Cheese Dressing

2011-07-18T00:52:00.010-04:00

It's late in the evening and the temperature app still reads 87°. Our country is witnessing a hot dry spell this July and Brooklyn is in for another scorching week with temps in the 90s. Good thing I made a lot of Blue Cheese dressing — it's cool, tangy, creamy, and waiting in the fridge. On brutal days like these I'd rather have a cool hearty salad for dinner with a big iced tea. This dressing would be ideal on a cold wedge of crunchy Iceberg Lettuce, but Romaine with a little sliced onion and red grapes is just as nice.

My Blue Cheese dressing is made with Danish Saga and a little maple syrup. Of course some crumbled bacon and wedge of bread completes this meal. My freind Lindsey says that her mom makes some kick-ass blue cheese dip as well — and Mrs. McCosh was nice enough to give us her recipe. For my tasty Maple Blue Cheese Dressing and Mrs. McCosh's Blue Cheese Dip recipes visit GardenFork.tv.

Knit Night @ Freddy's Bar, June 26, 2011

2011-07-03T22:14:00.012-04:00

The perfume of Silver Lindens hung heavily on a warm slow breeze, reminding us that summer has arrived. With my fried chicken dinner in one hand and a bag of yarn in the other, I walked to Freddy's for our monthly Knit Night. Our small group of South Slopers gathered for Beer 'n' Balls and of course conversation — dog sweaters, socks, new apartments, old neighborhoods, hair, new jobs, the economy, school...etc. I like spending my Sundays with our quirky little group, Knit PH.

I haven’t been knitting much lately, I’ve been working on my pattern store, TheYarnMonkey.com. Proofing patterns, programming, taxonomy, taking photos, writing....etc., it never seems to end. I’ve been getting a lot of fan mail from Australia, Norway, and the UK asking when my Elven Anthropology line will be ready. I just keep telling them to hang in there, I’m just one man.

Three cheers for partners Matt Kimmet, Matthew Kuhn, and the artful dodger himself, Donald O'Finn! Freddy’s Bar has been enjoying its new success in Greenwood Heights, in South Slope Brooklyn. After the travesty which is Atlantic Yards and their debacle with eminent domain abuse, Freddy’s success is well deserved. Everyday more as the Nets Arena grows consuming 22 acres of Prospect Heights, public sidewalks and creating an enormous traffic problem, it resembles a disembodied airplane hanger... with flights to nowhere. Some folks have blindly resigned themselves to chanting the rubber-stamp statement that “New York is city of change.” But what we’ve witnessed as change doesn’t benefit Brooklyn. At the rate that a shady realtor can rename a Brooklyn neighborhood to jack up sales, there may not be a Prospect Heights.

Our group is called Knit PH, named for it’s origins at the old Freddy's location in Prospect Heights — a bit ironic considering that the new location is in South Slope. Initially I told our group that Greenwood Heights was named after a mythical revolutionary ”Admiral Greenwood” (so I was told by a shady realtor), but I was completely misinformed. According to Wiki, This Brooklyn neighborhood was named for it’s proximity to the Greenwood Cemetery. People are still dying to get here. It’s always been an ethnically and economically diverse neighborhood — working class and middle class families; mainly Latino, Polish, and Italian. The new additions to 5th avenue would be first-time home owners, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars like Freddy’s and South. The vibe hasn’t changed that much. Although Morisi’s Pasta and the Italian baker are gone, Eagle Polish Provisions now shares the block with Jubilat’s smoked Polish goods and Corzo... Luigi's Pizza shares the slice with the new Italian cafe.

On this night, Knit PH shared the evening with the sweet sound of the self-proclaimed Graham Nash tribute band, The Country Baptizers. We used to share our evenings at Freddy’s with an Alphorn band. As the months heat up our group will be taking a summer break. July will be the last Knit PH meet-up for the summer. We’ll pick it up again in the fall. I’ll miss everyone, we have a small but interesting group.

Street Life — the Textures of Brooklyn

2011-06-25T11:58:00.009-04:00

I often find myself inspired by the very streets on which I walk — the many shades and textures of gray take on a life of their own in the late afternoon’s magic hours. For only a few hours, worn burnished metal plates become urban mandalas that shine softly through a halo leaves. Broken glass sparkles like diamonds hiding among the long, cool shadows. Here are some selected photos of our Brooklyn streets, circa Park Slope on Fifth Avenue.

So if you’re out and about at around 5:00 PM, look down and ponder... you might even find some money.

Summer Time in Cold Spring

2011-06-21T08:34:00.012-04:00

Just about an hour away by Metro-North is one of my favorite Hudson River towns — Cold Spring, New York. I helped my friends Janice and Adam get the porch ready before the Summer Solstice. Late afternoon hail storm, passing showers, visiting raccoon and all, Adam and I got the job done. I love the scent of freshly sanded red oak, cedar, and early summer flowers. It smells spicy like an old Indian wedding chest. But this fleeting fragrances only lingers between sanding — like most good things one must enjoy them while one can.

Sanded and ready for oiling, this porch holds the promise of many casual libations with friends, birthday parties, and tangy BBQ smoked all day on a low coals. I can almost taste that watermelon margarita.

Columbine means “dove” in Latin. This variety, Harlequin, resembles a flock of small birds bobbing on a branch. It’s botanical name Aquilegia means “eagle” — a reminder that Bald Eagles returned successfully to the Hudson River. What do you see?

Foxglove, the deadly Digitalis, is delightful in this soft shade of pale yellow — but beware its treacherous charm.

Wild Rye turns dusty blue when it rains. This variety, Lime Grass, thrives in dry shaded places where other plants might wither.

Low stalks of young Lavender greet everyone who passes. It always smells like freshly laundered sheets drying on the line.

This Golden Yarrow is ready to burst into a delicate bridal bouquet, rising high above its woolly leaves.

Pearls of morning dew dress up this small blue Hosta. I’m always amazed how a plant that looks so tropical can survive the harshest winter.

Moss roses smell like heaven on earth, its attar perfume invite everything except the local deer. In the fall they will bear their ruby-colored hips.

Dogwood Roses carpet the shady side of the house. Unlike the taller modern standard roses, these bloom all summer long.

An explosion of little supernovas — as common and as simple as Coreopsis are, they are one of my favorite summer flowers.

A garden salad can’t get any more fresh than this — young garden greens wait for a harvest. I made dinner for Janice and Adam: mesclin salad, maple-glazed pork loin medallions, and roasted russets and yams. The boys, Ellis and Jesse, just wanted pizza but they did like the ginger-carrot-leek dressing I made for the salad.

The Redhook Drifter Beach Hat

2011-06-04T16:52:00.014-04:00

Justin B. and the Redhook Drifter — this beach hat has a generous crown and a stingy brim that can be worn up, like a Trilby, or down and around. It’s versatile and folds completely flat into your bag or jacket pocket. It’s reminiscent of bygone afternoons at Sunny’s Bar... good times, blue grass, and cheap beer. One might ask ”Where is Redhook Beach?” If you have to ask... beware of erroneous directions.

The Redhook Drifter is crocheted in a chunky tweed yarn, Ella Rae Kasbah, a light-weight cotton blend that feels cool and soft on your head on a sultry summer afternoon. I created a new stitch for this hat that I call “Straw Braid.” The Redhook Drifter comes in Marigold Tweed, Monk Parrot Green, and Van Brunt Red — each brim trimmed with linen/silk braid.

Run out and get one while they’re hot, at Ozzie’s on 7th avenue (57 7th Avenue), here in Park Slope this summer. Thanks again Justin B., for showing off my hat.

Les Divas Deux avec Cloches

2011-06-03T12:32:00.040-04:00

The two divas of Les Sans Culottes light up the green room at The Bell House, June 2, 2011. Kit Kat Le Noir and Courtney Louvre vogue for the camera in pearl pink cloches.

Mlle. Kit Kat Le Noir avec Audrey Cloche de Fleurs.

Mme. Courtney Louvre avec Marlene Calla Cloche

My two favorite divas light up the green room

Les deux dames magnifiques de Les Sans Culottes

Les Sans Culottes at The Bell House

Kimchi — the Spice of Life

2011-05-30T12:44:00.002-04:00

This year’s first batch of kimchi — It’s not fully fermented yet, but good enough to make a relish for today’s Memorial Day BBQ at Freddy’s Bar. Kimchi isn't difficult to make, but it is a task. If you have refrigerator space and air-tight containers you’re halfway there. For my kimchi recupe and detailed instructions go to Gardenfork.tv: Kimchi-licious! Here's a pictorial overview below.

You’ll need these spices: (clockwise) fresh garlic, ginger root, sweet Korean chili (finely ground), sea salt; brown sugar, fresh onion, scallions (not pictured).

Kimchi is made from Napa Cabbage. Make sure the leaves are firm and tight when you buy a head. Asian white radish (Daikon) lends a nice deep flavor as it ferments. The cabbage and the radish are cut into bite-size pieces, then are salted and brined overnight. Ginger and garlic are the key ingredients for making chili paste. Make sure you use fresh ginger root only — they should be plump and firm. Peel the ginger before you run it through the food processor with the garlic. Scallions are optional, but i do like them.

Make some chili paste (Gochuchang). Put all dry ingredients and spices into a bowl. Mix well and add enough water to make a thick paste. Adjust spices to taste. Now mix everything together in a large bowl until the cabbage is evenly coated. Here’s the tricky part. To start fermentation you must leave everything out at room temperature for a day. After that pack everything into air-tight containers and add brine until it covers the contents completely and place in the fridge. It should be ready in about a month.

Tunisian Crochet in the Round

2011-05-27T12:45:00.003-04:00

I don't really know the origins of Tunisian Crochet (a.k.a. Afghan Crochet) — but much like the Panama hat, it probably has little to do with Tunisia. From what I’ve read, its modern popularity peaked in Victorian era — used for household items such as cushions, antimacassars, embroidery ground... Afghans, etc. Tunisian crochet is made with a hook with a long straight barrel. Some have hooks on both ends (the Cro-hook) for more complicated constructions.

One way I like using Tunisian crochet is to work in the round by spiraling a narrow ribbon that travels in one direction — as seen in the crown of my Kings County Pork Pie hat above. It's a great technique for any tube construction... bags, backpacks, etc. This modification of basic Tunisian Crochet continually joins at the right edge of the previous row as as you make a ribbon. This technique is also knows as “Linked Double Crochet” when worked on the right-facing side. For this demonstration I used a standard US C (2.5 mm) hook to make a ribbon that is 2 stitches wide. I recommend any medium weight cotton or linen blended yarn — I ran two skeins of Louet Euroflax sport weight (#2 fine).

The Working Row: This ribbon is 2 stitches wide. With a loop held on your hook, insert it through the first vertical strand, then insert the hook through the front part of the chain on top. Pull a loop through the the top chain and the strand. Leave the loop on the needle. You should have two loops on your hook at this point.

Join & Return Row: Now insert your hook through the chain from the previous row. Pull a new loop through. Pull a loop through this new loop and the loop on your needle. You should have two loops on your needle. Pull a loop through these last two loops.

The marker in the photo above is at point of origin. Repeat The Working Row and the Join & Return Row in the round until you have an open ended tube. As you see from the Pork Pie hat at the top, I created a flat base then worked in the round to the depth of the crown. By increasing the stitch count on rows I gave the crown a slight taper to fit the head better.

Tunisian Crochet — the Basics

2011-05-26T14:48:00.010-04:00

Tunisian Crochet, or Afghan Crochet, has long been maligned as the needle and hook’s ugly stepchild with a vague history. I feel it's been greatly misunderstood and misused. It's been relegated to the “granny world” — used as a ground for floss embroidery in the Victorian era. Isabella Beeton was a successful author and domestic pioneer who chronicled home management and crafts for the Victorian household. Among her needle crafts she wrote very thorough instructions for Tunisian Crochet.

Tunisian Crochet creates a very firm fabric with an almost woven appearance, like a reed basket. I think the texture is quite handsome. This makes it perfect for structured bags and crisp hats with subtle curves. The example above is worked in the round — a minor modification. I’ve studied and de-constructed its form. But before any deconstruction, one must learn well its construction.

Here’s a basic Tunisian Crochet tutorial for working flat. Usually this technique requires a long Afghan hook, which looks like a crochet hook with a long straight barrel — some with hooks on both ends. Finer sizes are hard to come by, so if you see one in a thrift shop, snag it. For the purpose of this demonstration I use a standard US C (2.5 mm) crochet hook.

For this lesson, we’ll make a ribbon that is 5 stitches wide. Tunisian Crochet is worked on two rows — the working row and the return row. Start by chaining 6. Skip the first chain and pull a loop through the second chain. Lave the loop in the hook. Repeat until you have a total of 5 loops on your hook — the first loop and the four new loops. Chain 1 in the last stitch. The first and last stitches are the selvage.

The Return Row: Pull a loop through the chain 1 and the loop on your hook. Leave the new loop on the hook. Now pull a loop through the next two loops on the hook. Repeat to the end and leave the loop on the hook.

The working Row: First insert the hook through the first vertical strand, then insert the hook through the front part of the chain on top. Pull a loop through the the top chain and the strand. Leave the loop on the needle, and repeat until before the last stitch. You should have four loops on your hook at this point.

For this last stitch you will insert your hook into the chain that on the edge. The photo above with the blue needle shows where you insert the hook — holding two strands. Chain 1 and repeat instructions for the Return Row. Repeat instructions for the Working Row and the Return Row until you have enough length for a ribbon or a strap.

Binding Off: After completing a Return Row, chain 1. Insert hook through the vertical strand and the front of the top chain — slip-stitch these together. Repeat until the end and cut yarn. There you have it the basic Tunisian Crochet stitch. Now go out and make something that isn't a pillow sham.

Going to the Dogs

2011-05-24T10:47:00.000-04:00

I spotted this sign on Sterling Place between 5th and 6th avenues. Although this notice is supposed to protect the tree, it's funny how it was actually screwed into the tree with drywall screws. As butcher shops and laundromats turn into coffee shops and high-dollar frozen yogurt joints, we'll see more signs like this in Park Slope.

A Wedge of Pork Pie for Summer

2011-05-10T17:46:00.005-04:00

Spring leaves are out, the sound of hatchlings peep through the trees outside my window, and the smell of fresh laundry hangs in the air. Summer is almost upon us. I’ve been working on my Kings County Pork Pie hat. This summer a few of these will be sold at Ozzie’s Coffee Shop here in Park Slope, along with other fine handmade goods.

This hat is similar to the crochet Pork Pie that I designed for Vogue Knitting — except that my Kings County Pork Pie is worked entirely in Tunisian Crochet ribbon. This woven crochet stitch closely resembles straw ribbon.

Tunisian Crochet is very firm — this and the combination of materials hold the brim upright. I used slate linen/silk (School Products) and charcoal linen paper (Habu) yarns to create a crisp yet lived-in look. People will argue that gray is not a color, but I find that it does complement all colors.

This man’s hat is understated luxury at it’s finest. All it needs is the right band. Here are a few detail photos.

A Cloche Look at Marlene

2011-05-03T08:58:00.004-04:00

Voila! This is the second cloche made for chanteuse extraordinaire, Mz. Courtney Louvre. Mz. Louvre recently joined French power-pop band Les Sans Culottes. This is the Marlene Calla Cloche inspired by the enigmatic silver screen siren, Marlene Dietrich. The eyelet cap is crocheted in arcade stitch, the soft brim is made with Tunisian crochet. This cloche drapes gently over the brow like the silken petal of Calla Lily. Mysterious, no?

Marlene Calla Cloche is a work in progress. I scheduled a fitting with Mz. Louvre for Thursday. I'm not sure where the front or back is yet... perhaps it doesn't matter. Here's a preview.

A Cloche Encounter with Audrey

2011-04-30T21:32:00.004-04:00

I'm not quite done with Mz. Kit Kat LeNoir's Cloche de Fleurs, but I finally gave it a proper name — Audrey. The cap is a tribute to timeless beauty, Audrey Hepburn. It's worked in Tunisian crochet and Half double crochet — looks like fine silk ribbon, no? I love the slight sheen this champagne colored microfiber.

The hardest part of making this hat is making a composition of anemones, for now they’re just tacked into place. This cloche has gone through quite a few changes so far — I changed the brim twice, I used fewer flowers. So what the hell do i do with a bag of pink flowers? Here’s a quick preview with the brim up and down.

A Cloche Call

2011-04-23T03:33:00.009-04:00

Bell hats at The Bell House? I’m making two floral cloches for Kit Kat LeNoir and Courtney Louvre, chanteuses of the French power-pop band Les Sans Culottes. I’m preping the ladies for a big gig at The Bell House on Thursday, June 2. It’s gonna be a packed night as they play along side with bands Electric Six and Township.

I’m trying to evoke the look of Persian Lamb with champagne colored flowers. I’m also exploring combinations of tradition and Tunisian crochet for these summer beauties. So far I’ve made a bag’s worth of champagne colored anemones and a few sketches.

Designer Caroline Reboux (far left), and her signature work.

The cloche (bell hat) was created in 1908 by Parisian milliner Caroline Reboux. The cloche’s popularity grew through the collections of fashion designers like Nina Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel. It's flair became synonymously with the Art Deco movement, Jazz Era music, and flappers of the 1920s.

Fashion pioneers Coco Chanel (left) and Nina Schiaparelli.

Evolution of the cloche (l-r): Joesphine Baker, Louise Brooks, Joan Crawford

Worn low to the brow with eyes peeking from under, the cloche conjures the rakish abandon of the 1920s flapper. The fashion houses elevated the cloche into couture, but it was the film and entertainment industry that made it the hat that every woman wanted.

Italian screen goddess Sophia Loren from the movie “The Millionaires.”

Actress Audrey Hepburn sporting Hubert de Givenchy (photos: Sir Cecil Beaton).

Fashion icons such as Hubert de Givenchy, Roy Halston, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and Christian Dior revived the cloche from their runways to the big screen in the 1950s through the 1970s. Casual elegance was reborn.

Zuki BlackBerry Caddy

2011-04-17T12:57:00.000-04:00

Say hello to Zuki, she’s a cell phone caddy for people who are obsessed with cute. I made her for my new Blackberry Curve — here’s one way to soften the impact of technology.

I used the linen stitch to create a very firm, but flexible fabric. I also finished the trim with a simple crochet border. Zuki is made with ultra soft Misty Alpaca DK, and filled with Azuki Beans — the same beans used to make Red Bean Paste.

She’s handy when recharging my phone or when I have my Blackberry set to alarm clock mode. I like the way her little pink eyes stare back at me when the alarm goes off. I also like squeezing her when I’m on the phone — feels like the best stress ball I’ve ever had.

For most Zuki may not be exceptionally *useful* but she’s packed with Azuki Beans and lots and lots of charm.

Enamel Workshop Part 3 — Cloisonné at Liloveve Studio

2011-04-14T23:36:00.005-04:00

At the table next to me someone asked “Are you making googly eyes?” My eyes were a bit strained but he was actually talking about my cloisonné strip. This ancient enamel technique is time intensive, but well worth the effort.

Thin flat wire is shaped into small partitions called cloisonnes.These chambers are with filled with glass paste and fired numerous times to achieve a jewel-like affect. Cloisonné requires many firings to build layers of color. So get used to wearing gloves, and don’t wear anything flammable.

Instructor Emilie Shapiro gave us a detailed demonstration. First she prepared a copper base kiln-firing it with an opaque layer of color. This creates a perfectly smooth glass surface. After cooling and cleaning it was brushed with an even layer of Klyr-fire adhesive.

Small cloisonnes made from silver wire are placed in a simple design and kiln-fired. These simples circles were made by wrapping and cutting with needles nose pliers. The Klyr-fire adhesive held them in place but kiln-firing adheres them to the glass.

This small kiln can reach temperatures of over 1500° F. This sample piece was fired for only about minute — the steel trivet turned from dark gray to a bright orange. Immediately after removing from the kiln, the cloisonnes are tapped with a metal spatula to make sure they set into the base layer before it has cooled.

After cleaning the interior of the cloisonnes are wet-packed with a contrasting color of opaque glass paste and set aside to dry, then fired again. This process of firing and wet-packing in and around the cloisonnes is repeated until the glass barely covers the wires. Spills cleanup easily with a paper blotter.

Although I made what appears to be googly eyes, cloisonné has adorned everything from exquisite urns, swords and daggers, and delicate jewelry. The samples below show how this ancient craft has been refined over a long history as it.

I didn’t have enough time to finish my sample, but this is just one small step towards the big project.

Mycenaean bronze sword hilt from grave excavation (c. 16th century BC)
Athens National Archaeological Museum

left: Byzantine cloisonné medallion (c. 1100 AD)
right: Ming porcelain (Xuande Period c. 1426-1435 AD)

Enamel Easter egg from Moscow (Feodor Ruckert c. 1899 –1908).

Detail: Gilded silver, shaded translucent cloisonné, and guilloche enamel;
height 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm), diameter 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)

To learn more about precious metal and and jewelry making workshops at Liloveve Studio, and to see Caroline Glemann’s work visit her studio website: www.liloveve.com.

Emilie Shapiro is contemporary jewelry designer and metalsmith who received her BFA in Art & Design from Syracuse University. She has studied at Alchimia, a contemporary school of Italian jewelry in Florence, with artist Peter Bauhuis. She managed production at Pamela Love and Allforthemountain and has since launched her own line of jewelry and body adornment. To see more of Emilie Shaprio’s work, visit her website: www.emilieshapiro.com.

Enamel Workshop Part 2 — Kiln Firing at Liloveve Studio

2011-04-12T12:08:00.002-04:00

What’s in the oven? Well, it's not biscuits. This small kiln reaches temperatures of over 1500° F. It takes a watchful eye at these temperatures as metal and glass can melt and burn. All the skills we've acquired from torch-firing apply directly to kiln firing.

When working with high heat it’s important to dress correctly. Don’t wear synthetic fibers, wear cotton instead — potential disaster is only a sleeve-length away. Protective heat resistant gloves, tongs and long handled tools are required when kiln-firing — you can forget about wearing flip flops.

Wet packing is another method of applying glass powder by making it into a paste with one part Klyr-fire adhesive and four parts distilled water. After cleaning and buffing a copper surface, the paste is applied with a brush — it's about as viscous as yogurt.

Much like guache or watercolor, the wet paste should be completed in one application and then allowed to dry before further decoration and firing. Many water color effects can be used using the wet-packing technique... blending, gradation, spot coloring... etc.

Sgraffito comes from the Italian word sgraffiare which means “to scratch.” This decorative treatment is used on ceramic tiles, wall treatments, and of course enamel jewelry.

Instructor Emilie Shapiro gave us a detailed demonstration. The finished base color is mars red — first fired, cooled, and cleaned. An opaque blue paste is wet-packed onto the surface and allowed to dry. A design is scratched through the paste with a stylus to reveal the mars red base below, then it’s kiln-fired. Opaque colors are recommended for sgraffito, but transparent layers can be applied afterwards at separate firings.

To prevent warping a layer of counter enamel is applied and fired to one side. Counter enamel is mixed from left-over glass colors. Without a counter enamel, long thin shapes such as this test strip bend like plastic while firing.

In this test strip silver foil is applied, and then layered with more transparent color. Multiple transparent layers deepen in color to create a lustrous surface.

It take a steady patient hand and many trips to the kiln to achieve this gem-like quality. Looks good enough to eat!

Liloveve Studio is owned operated by Caroline Glemann, a designer of fine jewelry. For more information about this enamel class and other classes at Liloveve, and to learn more Caroline Glemann’s jewelry, visit the studio website: www.liloveve.com.

Enamel Workshop Part 1 — Sifiting & Torching at Liloveve Studio

2011-04-09T20:49:00.009-04:00

“Over-fired Cuff”' by Emilie Shapiro (vitreous enamel on free-form copper)

Enamel is a decorative glass craft with a history that dates back as far as 3150 BC in Ancient Egypt. I’ve been taking a basic but very intensive enamel class right here in Brooklyn at Liloveve Studio with instructor Emilie Shapiro, a contemporary jewelry designer.

Sgraffito is a decorative a technique of scratching a wet top layer to create linear designs.

Powdered glass is fused at temperatures of 1380 to 1560 °F to create a hard porcelain-like finish. It’s used on decorative surfaces and jewelry as well as on the enamel we use as cookware. Powdered glass comes in a wide range of opaque and transparent colors, but a true red is hard to obtain.

It helps to have some practical knowledge of metalwork. In this first series of classes, Emilie helped us master the skills and techniques of firing colored glass onto copper by dry-sifting, and wet-packing.

We had our hands full applying layer upon layer yo build a solid opaque surface. Our first project involved sgraffito, an Italian technique in which a design is scratched into a wet layer of enamel to reveal a contrasting color of finished enamel below. It works best with opaque colors.

A copper surface is first cleaned well with denatured alcohol, then buffed dry and treated with Klyr-fire, a cellulose adhesive. Traces of hand grease and impurities affect how well the color covers as it is heated. In this lesson powdered glass is applied by sifting evenly onto the treated surface. Multiple colors can be applied to created an organic gradation but it's best not to blend a new color with this method.

Of course my favorite part of this class was Torch Firing with an acetylene torch. Isn’t that every boy’s dream? This is the most practical way to learn how different materials react to high concentrated heat (“high fire”). You literally can watch metal and glass melt and oxidize. If you're not careful you might melt your project to the trivet — I learned that the hard way.

Work carefully and quickly. As you wait for the copper to turn a bright shade of orange you must also watch the texture of the glass as it fuses. The powdered glass first takes on the texture of granulated sugar as you move the torch around from below. It’s finished when it takes on orange peel texture. When glass is heated to the point of burning it’s called “over-firing.” This effect is similar to raku pottery.

The finished enamel is moved to a clay surface to cool, then is pickled in a low acid bath. More layers can be applied to create different effects as you can see from the examples we made in this class.

Copper is a great conductor of heat, it also has a lower melting point than the steel trivet used for support. Other types of metal for enamelware are fine gold, and sterling silver.

In this studio class we gained a practical knowledge of all tool sand materials for working with enamel. This class has been nothing less than fascinating, but there’s still so much more to learn. Perfecting these techniques lead us to the making cloisonné jewelry. Cloisonné is a Far Eastern technique refined by the French. The word “cloison” is French for partition. This enamel technique involves inlaying different colors into separate compartments made from thin strips of wire. It resembles a painting made from jewels.

In this class I enameled copper buttons to look like mother of pearl and other oxidized metals, clever no?.

To learn more about precious metal and and jewelry making workshops at Liloveve Studio, and to see Caroline Glemann’s work visit her studio website: www.liloveve.com.

Emilie Shapiro is contemporary jewelry designer and metalsmith who received her BFA in Art & Design from Syracuse University. She has studied at Alchimia, a contemporary school of Italian jewelry in Florence, with artist Peter Bauhuis. She managed production at Pamela Love and Allforthemountain and has since launched her own line of jewelry and body adornment. To see more of Emilie Shaprio’s work, visit her website: www.emilieshapiro.com.

The Wombat® — Cool Softwear for the iPad

2011-04-06T15:23:00.005-04:00

My business partner Tom Pope and I have developed a different type of softwear — the Wombat® iPad Pillow, a plush mid-tech accessory for your iPad. This is our working prototype, but of course the final product will not be a hand knit item. BTW, for all you knitters, this is the Linen Stitch.

Wombat® iPad Pillow is adjustable, from a 30° tilt to dead-on flat for working vertically or horizontally. It’s easy on the wrists. It’s not a travel pillow, but it is designed to go from the table to the couch.

Don’t you just want to lay your head down on it? This is the Wombat® at rest. Flip it over, the feet raise it high enough to protect the iPad surface. Remember to flip your iPad screen-side in before you nap.

Soft corners allow you to plug in headphones or other external devices, just peel back. plug in, and play. So while you’re powering up your iPad, play your favorite iTunes and power-down for a quick nap.

We are TomTone Industries, the makers of technology accessories, the Wombat is our first product due out in the fall. And just like our favorite Aussie marsupial, Wombat® iPad Pillow also has a pouch. Isn’t this kick-ass cool?

A Monstrous Sweet Treatfrom a Little Red Bean

2011-04-02T01:19:00.007-04:00

Here’s another childhood memory — sweet Red Bean Paste made from the Azuki bean. It’s sold in most Asian markets all year round, but usually it’s served during fall harvest festivals. Whole red beans are also candied and preserved. They taste similar to chestnut puree and pine nuts and the paste is as smooth as fine pumpkin filling. In Asian cuisine it’s used as a sweet spread or pastry filling in moon cakes and mochi balls. Red Bean ice cream is one of my favorite flavors, especially when it's topped with candied yam.

Koreans stuff Red Bean Paste into buckwheat pancake (pul-bang) as a traditional sweet dumpling. I like it with cream cheese on toasted bagels at breakfast, I bet these would be even better on waffles — very gaijin-gwai. If you make your own ice cream try this as a new flavor. It’s easy to make… and even easier with a blender.

To learn how to make Red Bean Paste and more... visit GardenFork.tv.

The purrrfect puree: Phillip the cat advises me on blender safety.

Not-so-slopy Joe!

2011-03-26T11:01:00.005-04:00

Ever wonder what to do with that drawer full of Ketchup and Plum Sauce packets? Cook up some Sloppy Joe! TV trays, Gun Smoke, Kung Fu, or Charlie’s Angels, corn chips, an icy glass of Tang... I have such fond memories of the 70’s and Sloppy Joe Night that I barely remember that we were in a recession.

This is one of my favorite cheap eats. You can find this Not-so-sloppy Joe recipe on GardenFork.tv.

The Woven Stitch and Slipped Moss

2011-03-25T15:16:00.003-04:00

The Woven Stitch (a.k.a. fabric, or linen stitch) is one of my favorite knit patterns, and as the name implies it looks exactly like a coarsely woven linen. It’s made by slipping alternate stitches with the yarn stranded across the right-facing side. The woven pattern is then worked syncopated over odd and even rows.

On reverse side is a wonderful Slipped Moss pattern. Although this stitch is not truly a reversible stitch I think both sides are equally handsome.

The Woven Stitch makes a very firm, elastic fabric. It's great for knit projects that require more tensile strength: cushions, jackets, bags, rugs, table runners... etc. It also makes a great ground for floss embroidery. I’m making an iPad pillow.

Swatch up the Woven Stitch with a sport weight yarn on US #6 (4.0 mm) needles and work loosely with an even hand. The woven pattern becomes more apparent after washing and blocking.

To work flat, cast on 21. Start on the wrong side.
(multiples of 2 + 3)
R01: Purl all.
R02: Sl1, (k1, slip 1 with yarn in front ) X9, k2.
R03: Sl2 with yarn behind, (p1, slip 1 with yarn behind) X9, p1
Repeat rows 2 to 3.

To work in the round, cast on 42. Join yarn
R01: Knit all.
R01: Purl all.
R02: (k1, slip 1 with yarn in front ) X21.
R03: (slip 1 with yarn in front, k1 ) X21
Repeat rows 2 to 3.

Tostones for Breakfast!

2011-03-19T21:48:00.007-04:00

I thought I bought little red bananas the other day. When I sliced one open I could smell the scent of fresh cut grass. As it turns out, I bought a bunch of little red plantains by mistake — lucky me!

Although they look similar plantains are not really bananas, but a close cousin there of. They’re eaten green, or when they turn redish-purple to black. High in starch and low is sugar, they are prepared like a root vegetable... I like mine fried. Tostones are platano chips that are pressed flat and twice-fried, which makes them doubly delicious.

Tostones go with any meal that you’d serve with fries — I made them for breakfast. They aren’t hard to make but there is a little trick to peeling them. Lucky for us, we can find green plantains is most grocery stores, bodegas, and Caribbean markets here in Brooklyn.

You don’t need any fancy equipment — frying pan, sharp knife... if you don't have a tostonera press you can use a the bottom of a coffee mug. For a pictorial how-to and more, visit GardenFork.tv.

Huevos con tostones — make this for breakfast.

Japan: Spring Relief 2011

2011-03-14T23:29:00.031-04:00

The first day of spring in very near, which means we’ve sprung forward and lost an hour over the weekend. But on the other side of the world people awoke to a much greater loss.

On Friday, March 11, an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami left the north eastern coast of Japan in the wake of growing destruction. As more news, photos and videos are made public, they leave me profoundly horrified.

If you are reading this blog entry please follow the news and donate what money you can. The best we can do is keep ourselves aware of the situation and be charitable. Here are some reliable charitable organizations:

Google has created an aggregate resource page for Japanese and English speakers who are searching for friends and family. Visit Google Crisis Response: Japan.

My deepest sympathies lie with friends who have family over seas — as it is a troubling time to be abroad. Mostly, my prayers go out to the people of Japan who must endure the aftermath, a long road lies ahead. In these uncertaiin times I pray for a window of calm. Among the metaphors for flowers, Anemones (or Windflowers) carry deep meaning. Blue Anemones symbolize anticipation.

Motes Balaclava and a Great Unmasking in Gotham

2011-03-12T13:35:00.012-05:00

Meet Mr. Motes – he’s up to no good. The Adventures of Miss Flit, is a beautifully illustrated cloak and dagger story by Beth Hahn, set in turn of the century New York. Emma Flitt weaves her way through back streets and alleys to find her sister Lucy, who has mysteriously vanished.

This is the Motes Balaclava that I contributed to The Adventures of Miss Flit, Vol. I, Chapter III, “The Séance.” It’s one of the many original patterns in this book. The Balaclava is a Russian winter mask that originated from the Crimean War – Battle of Balaclava (October 25, 1854). Interestingly this infamous British battle involved a legendary feud between Lord Raglan and the Earl of Cardigan.

In this four-part knitting novella you’ll encounter Mr. Motes and a cast of characters that include, magicians, clairvoyants, charlatans, pick pockets... and original knitting patterns. To purchase this series go to www.missflitt.com.

Although Miss Flitt’s world is fiction set in old New York, shady characters do wander freely and openly. The wealthiest and dirtiest of them all roam the steps of Albany and their tangled pattern of corruption and greed is now becoming more obvious. Be warned, these men are dangerous...

“In a Series of Phone Calls, an Ear into a Federal Corruption Case”
(NYT, David Halbfinger, March 11, 2011)

Recently in New York, the mask was pulled off the faces of a few unsavory Albany politicos. 8 corrupt lawmakers have been arrested, including Sen. Carl Kruger, lobbyist Richard Lipsky, and Assemblyman William F. Boyland, Jr.. They all have finally fallen after a four year federal investigation revealed charges of money laundering, bribery, and millions of dollars in backroom deals. Potential jail time for Kruger is 60 years — orange jumpsuits and cheese sandwiches will soon replace a lavish life built on greed and tax payer dollars.

“Developer Among Cast of Characters in Kruger Case”
(NYT, James Barron, March 10, 2011)

This particularly turns my stomach as the trail leads directly to Atlantic Yards Developer, Forest City Ratner. So many dirty hands have passed through this deal, yet FCR remains virtually Teflon of bribery charges, even as their vice president of governmental affairs and public relations, Bruce Bender, is sourced in a taped $9 million covert conversation with Kruger. FCR has recently retired the service of their lobbyist Richard Lipsky effective since hearing the news of his arrest. Even as I look out my Prospect heights window, I see the traffic and congestion that leads to the arena, a reminder of how we have all been mired in this dirty deal. After the Ridge Hill bribery incident, will Bender and FCR be spared to gallows again?

“Most Effective Corruption Hunter in New York”
(The New York Observer, Azi Paybarah, March 10, 2011)

In the wake of these arrests, Manhattan federal prosecutor, Preet Bharara boldly proclaimed “This case should serve as a wake-up call.” “It seems that no matter how many times the alarm goes off, Albany just hits the snooze button...” Don’t they know that if they drink from the same dirty cup, they’re bound to be sucking up mud? Be warned Albany, there will be no one left to pay off.

To this day every filthy moneyed-hand that’s been involved with the Atlantic Yards Project mockingly call us “the opposition” and say that our neighborhood, Prospect Heights, is “blighted.” They fail to call us what we really are: the residents of Prospect Heights. We actually live here and must bear the brunt of their doing, meanwhile they watch from distant penthouse towers. But who will be left to tell this tale New York corruption? Visit Atlantic Yards Report, Norman Oder’s watchdog blog is dedicated to following our New York pols, Eminent Domain Abuse, and the backroom deals which gave us the money pit of tax dollars and public funds known as the Atlantic Yards Project. You can’t make this story up.

Thanks Bobby Young for lending your modeling talents to my Balaclava.

Another Square Meal... Mushroom Frittata

2011-03-12T11:35:00.003-05:00

I’m really getting into these cooking rings. Here’s another square egg dish: Mushroom Frittata with red pepper, parsley, cheddar cheese, and onion. It's served with cocktail sauce with a healthy side of buttered toast fries.

This recipe makes breakfast for two — or brunch for two depending how late your day starts on a weekend. It’s important not to over-fill the rings, otherwise they’ll flow over the tops of the rings as they cook. You’ll add the eggs into the rings to make layers, sorta like a parfait.

Since this dish is finished by steaming in a non-stick, you won’t need much butter, but that’s entirely up to you.

For this Mushroom Frittata recipe and more visit GardenFork.tv.

Take a Trip with Travel Peanut

2011-03-10T13:17:00.004-05:00

I'm glad I don't have a peanut allergy. How would I have gone through college without peanut butter? I love every manner of peanut — boiled, fried, roasted, salted, spiced with chili and lime. You might say peanuts inspire me.

Phillip the cat likes my new Travel Peanut, but for now it only goes from the couch to the floor, and under a chair. Take this loungey legume along in a car, on a plane, or a train — it conveniently scrunches down into a bag. Travel Peanut has just the right ergonomic support for your neck, so rest your weary head when you’re on the road.

Now here’s a legume for people with nut allergies. This is two a part pattern: zippered slip case and casing. It makes for easy wear an care if you travel a lot. I want to stuff this pillow with buckwheat hull— imagine how good that would smell when you lay your head down and close your eyes.

My lab assistant, Phillip gave it a thorough road test for durability. He took thoughtful paws... conclusion: he confirmed we have a winner.

Slipped Waffles

2011-03-08T22:33:00.004-05:00

Here’s a tasty treat: Slipped Waffle Stitch. this is one of my favorite knit stitches. What I like about this version of a waffle stitch is that it creates a very deeply textured fabric. It works well with most medium or chunky weight yarn.

Gordon K. is wearing one of my Eskimo Pies. I modified the Slipped Waffle Stitch without purls to create a very toothsome sock stitch. I used Cascade 220 and Cascade Eco Yarn.

As with most slipped stitches, it’s very firm and warm on the body. I’ve used this stitch for making hats and bags. Accessories aside, this would make a great man's button-down jacket or coat. Give this swatch the taste test... bon appétit!

Swatch up the Slipped Waffle Stitch

To work flat, cast on 21. Start on the wrong side.
(multiples of 2 + 1)
R01: Purl all.
R02: K1, (k1, slip 1 ) X9, k2.
R03: P1, (k1, slip 1) X9, p2.
R04: k1, (p1, knit 1 through back of loop) X9, p1, k1.
Repeat rows 1 to 4.

To work in the round, cast on 42. Join yarn
R01: Knit all.
R02 : (Slip 1, k1, ) to end.
R03: (Slip 1, p1) to end.
R04: (Knit 1 through back of loop, p1, ) to end.
Repeat rows 1 to 4.

Square Egg in a Round Hole

2011-03-07T10:57:00.008-05:00

Square cooking rings: a culinary oxymoron — I bought two at New York Cake & Baking Distributors the other day. I was actually supposed to have bought vanilla, but got distracted by the shiny isle.

So I made square poached eggs with chives, and home fries for brunch on a sunny Saturday afternoon — two eggs in each ring. I had a set of round rings at one point... lost ‘em between apartment moves. These new rings are much thicker and they distribute heat much better... most of all they just look real cool.

What did we do before these fanciful gadgets? My grandmother used to make her coconut flan in rings that were made from large coffee cans. The bottoms were cut free and the edges were filed smooth. They weren’t as impressive as store bought equipment but they did a nice job.

This was much less effort than poaching eggs in a boiling pot of water and vinegar. For details go to GardenFork.tv. I’m making square coconut flan next time around.

JimmiGirl: Eyelets Are on You

2011-03-06T14:04:00.006-05:00

JimmiGirl is a skullcap made for her. Let traveling ribs take you from the office to a night on the town — just slip it on and step outside. A lattice of eyelets, and bobbles, make this women’s skullcap incredibly elastic — it’s very kind to your hair.

Delicate cables wind their way up JimmiGirl’s crown, ending in modest bobbles. The Vikkel Braid band elegantly frames your face — now all you need is a smile. Could a lady ask for anything more from a hat?

This PDF pattern will be available for purchase on this blog in about two weeks. JimmiGirl is written for knitters with an experienced hand. The pattern has instructions for women’s sizes S, M, L, and XL. It’s a quick knit for chunky yarn lovers.

Doesn't this look perfect on Joy? Thanks Joy M. for modeling my JimmiGirl hat.

JimmiBoy: He’s a Chunky Monkey

2011-03-05T22:15:00.011-05:00

Meet JimmiBoy, a skullcap designed for him… but she’ll probably steal it. The traveling twisted-rib pattern makes this cap extra-stretchy for lots of wear, tear, and lots of hair. It also fold neatly into a jacket or back pocket.

The Yarn Monkey pattern store will be up running in early summer 2011, but this PDF pattern will be available for purchase on this blog in about two weeks.

JimmiBoy is written for the intermediate knitter — experienced hands should be able to knit this hat in about 8 hours. The pattern has instructions for men’s sizes S, M, L, and XL. Chunky yarn makes for a quick knit. It also gives a clean stitch definition to the 1 X 1 twisted ribs and cables as they travel up the crown.

The band is knit in stitch called “Vikkel Braid,” a traditional Estonian stitch that lays completely horizontal. It resembles a herringbone, but with a more rope-like quality. It makes for a very firm, elastic band.

Thanks again to James K. for modeling the JimmiBoy.

Blancmange for Dessert

2011-03-03T17:20:00.001-05:00

Some Brits fondly refer to blancmange (blə-mɒnʒ) as “shape.” Similar to Italian panna cotta, This custard is made with whole-fat milk, cream, eggs, and sugar. But the key ingredient to this rich silky dessert is carrageen, aka Irish moss — without it, it's just pudding. Some recipes call for agar, cornstarch or gelatin as a substitute.

Blancmange is derived from Old French for “white food.” It was found on the tables of the upper-class, dating as far back as the Middle Ages, although the original recipe includes shredded chicken meat and almonds... yuk, that’s just wrong!

This is the same dried carrageen that Lucy sent to us from Ireland. After soaking in cold water, the dark purple bundles bloom into delicate lavender and cream petals. Carrageen dissolves easily in hot liquid to form a thick liquid.

This custard from the UK is actually easy to make, and you probably have most everything you need in your kitchen... except for the Irish moss of course. For this blancmange recipe and detailed instructions visit GardenFork.tv.

Of Irish Moss and Old Lace

2011-03-03T00:24:00.013-05:00

At first glance this might be mistaken for a fallen a Vanda orchid, or maybe florets of lacy Hydrangea Hortensia. These lovely petals are actually seaweed. This week a mysterious parcel arrived from Ireland. In it were a carton of dried Irish moss (Carrageen), and a bundle of Dillisk.

About a month ago when I met with Irish siren, Lucy Foley, we had the most inspired conversation over coffee and yarn. Beautiful colors and textures of music, the dance of lyrical poetry, chartreuse seaweed, iridescent kelp, nautical berries, knobs, and lace that drift their way into Irish crochet.

We sat down to design long flowing sleeves that reach the floor and drape like Dillisk washing ashore. Her upcoming performance is only in a few months. Are we ready? Soon after that, she left — bound for Limerick.

Meanwhile in my kitchen... I could smell the Northwestern coast of Ireland as I soaked these wizened bundles in cold water — so salty and sweet. A tidal pool of rose madder, lavender, and cream branches untangled and bloomed like a mermaid’s forgotten corsage. Silky purple Dillisk unfurled, softly flowing like ribbon over the back of my hand — it’s translucent fingers running over mine.

I love Lucy’s music. As I listen to her song “It’s a Tangle” I clearly recall Lucy saying “Don't make me look like Queen of the Faeries, now...” I think she meant Kate Bush, not Maeve.

Meatloaf: Slow Cookin’ for Two

2011-02-26T23:47:00.015-05:00

On this quiet balmy Saturday in Prospect Heights, I finally planed, scraped, and painted the hallway doors a soft Naples Yellow while Steph was out. Why would anyone use sand paint on a door? These doors now look less like a David Lean prop from Great Expectations. Meanwhile in the news the Middle East has been in turmoil. Egyptians have overthrown their regime. Libya has followed suit as is much of the Middle East. Social media lead their revolution. In the U.S. social media is more often used by an anonymous person to girl-bully another, i.e. Sarah Palin's online ghost writer Rebecca Mansour circa the "bullseye map" incident.

Here in the U.S., economic unrest is becoming more apparent as we trudge through an unpunctual economic recovery and growing unemployment and inflation. Gasoline is said to go up to $5.00 per gallon. Are we now headed into the revolution with out a car? The only thing good about slow going is a slowly cooked meal. I made a meatloaf dinner in my Crock Pot — slow going but always moist and delicious with little effort. I used beef, pork, veal, bell pepper, onion, garlic, celery, basil, fresh parsley, ketchup, bread crumbs... practically everything in the fridge. My Parmesan & chive mashed potatoes were actually more work than the meatloaf.

To get my slow cooker meatloaf recipe visit GardenFork.tv. I think everyone can figure out how to make Parmesan & chive mashed potatoes.

GardenFork.tv was created by my friend Eric Rochow, a social media guru who advocates greener living in New York. GardenFork.tv is a how-to blog that features podcast commentaries, video interviews, DIY projects, cooking segments, and original recipes. I'm a regular content contributor. Eric and I often explore Brooklyn neighborhoods and promote the fine local fare, and to reconnect with a more human way of living.

...oh, and shortly before dinner our neighbor Justine D. brought over her delicious brown-butter carrot cake with lemon cream cheese icing for dessert — she's quite the chef. Brooklyn revolves with the flavor of life.

When Life’s a Beach

2011-02-21T22:42:00.014-05:00

Enough with this cold weather! I've got my Square Peg mitered hat on, and I'm ready for a day at the beach. It's 17° outside and bitter cold, but I think of warmer days and I can almost feel the sand crushing beneath my feet. How good is that Sunday BBQ when its aroma hangs heavily and drifts seductively on a warm slow breeze?

Island culture was a big part of my upbringing, sometimes I can hear the beach calling me when I pull my hat low, over my eyes. I hear the laughter of gulls and the surf clapping sharply onto the shore. I think of picking star apples while looking for Lost Pond. I remember how the salty Pacific air feels on my skin and how sweet and tart a ripened Indian mango tastes, especially when you've picked it yourself.

Square Peg beach hat is knit entirely in linen stitch, a slipped stitch pattern that has the appearance of a course weave — making for a very firm fabric. It brindles variegated yarn into a much more interesting, softer texture.

Short-row corners make for a perfectly square brim. The Crab Stitch trim defines the crown and also fortifies the edges. Square Peg is made for serious play.

There's a few bugs in the pattern, but my Square Peg will be ready before spring. Thanks Justin B. for modeling my hat.

KnitPH @ Prospect Perk, Feb. 12, 2011

2011-02-21T11:29:00.002-05:00

This winter weather has been all over the map. After a deep freezing storm, we had some 50° days. The banks of ice that line the streets are staring to thaw. Probably be due to that recent solar flare.

We had an intimate MeetUp at Prospect Perk Café, just we five. I hadn't seen Patricia in a while, she's just come back from a retreat in India — singing, dancing, village walks, and of course great Indian food. She's working on some Chemo Caps for Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

I brought my "rustic" green yarn from Marrakech. There's just enough to make a long skinny Brioche Rib scarf. I hope the color stays as bright after it's washed. My hands and needles were stained green from working with it. Meredith told me about some the rustic yarn that she bought in Scotland form a cottage craftsman. It is so rustic that she's picking out the thistles.

Mai is modifying a hat pattern to suit her taste. She's using a yarn that she bought when she and Ken were in Mexico. The natural colors are very handsome — varying shades of taupe and cream. Jeremy finally made it to our MeetUp. He's recently moved here from North Carolina to join his fiancée. He's still adjusting to New York, and as luck would have it, he found work right away. He's a marionette operator. Jeremy makes jewelry by crocheting patterns over river rocks — each one is unique and beautiful. I like the way the smoothness of the rock peeks out from the texture of black mercerized cotton.

Egg-centric Accent

2011-02-16T19:09:00.007-05:00

Breakfast in bed? This is Ovopillo (oh-voh-pìh-lo), an egg-shaped bolster that I designed for the couch. Can't you see yourself laying down in a nest of these? It's very plush. This zippered sham fits snugly over an oval form. The bold Fair Isle pattern is inspired by curry leaves.

Fair Isle construction requires concentration and a steady hand. I wouldn't watch Netflix while working in Fair Isle, but I'd catch up on my PodCasts. The long strands that lay on the back (aka, floats) must be woven and managed as closely as the pattern side. I own a few different types of knitting bridges and thimbles, but I prefer to use my ring to steady the strands as I work.

It's the prefect size for resting your head — 19" tall by 9" diameter. This would a hit with kids. Phillip the cat seems to like it too, although he may not be as egg-cited about it as I am.

Ain’t it Sweet

2011-02-15T21:55:00.002-05:00

Valentines Day treats — box of chocolates, ginger ice cream, heart-shaped brownie's, and an evening of Netflix on the Roku Player with Stephanie and Phillip. Here's to the sweet things in life!

Freddy’s Bar Rises from the Ashes, Feb. 3, 2011

2011-02-11T14:47:00.020-05:00

It's been one hell of a weird year and a miserable winter in New York — blizzards, ice storms, deep freezes, a deep recession, and all. It's been a while since I've posted on this blog. I vowed not to post until Freddy's Bar re-opened its doors.

And like the crocus that peeks through the black ice, Freddy's Bar rose like a sign of hope. Although the official opening night was February 4th, friends and family gathered for a private evening on February 3rd in South Slope... that's right, Freddy's Bar is now nearly two miles away from its original location (and nine months) since that day.

I was quoted in the Wall Street Journal as saying “It’s a bizarre feeling of old faces in a new space...” ("A Displaced Dive Bar, Reborn in Brooklyn," by Pervaiz Shallwani). The experience was somewhere between a class reunion and an odd dream where everyone you knew milled about in a large Joseph Cornell box.

I stood in awe of a room packed completely from front to back. I knew every face if not most of their names. Everything from the old Freddy's location was transported to the new space... the entire bar, the booths, the massive captains chairs, art, artifacts. But for a few new things, this is in fact the former Freddy's Bar laid out in a new space.

Over a packed bar, Eva handed me a beer and winked, "First one's on us." Mike pushed my money away. Don and Kimmet ran up and down the bar serving drinks, Matthew Kuhn was busy giving hugs, and at some point there was a call for "all hands on deck" to all bar staff. A few of us even bussed glasses from the tables and the evening poured on.

Steve, Gersh, Andy...

But this was by far fairy tale — the road to the new Freddy's Bar was a white knuckle ride down a rocky path lined with obstacles. New York State's misuse of Eminent Domain claimed an entire section of Prospect Heights, forcing then owner Frank Yost into a nominal buyout — it was this or leave with nothing. The only one who benefits from all this is a billionaire developer and his private arena built on public funds. Amidst plans of reforming business, Frank backed out of the partnership and moved on leaving Don and crew in the lurch.

Matt, Adrianne, Bleu, Bill, Tim...

But the dream didn't die on the floor, everyone pitched in and I mean everyone — old patrons, new neighbors, friends, news media, bloggers, online communities. If Freddy's Bar left with anything it left with an incredible collective good will.

Vadeem, Gail, Steve, Pat, Katie, John, Ian, Lex, Millie, Marlene...

Former employees Don O'Finn and Matthew Kuhn formed a new partnership with seasoned bar professional Matt Kimmet. They raised capital and with friends and family they built the new space — from the wiring and plumbing to the wall paper on up to the new tin ceiling.

A hollow void is filled once more with music, dancing, laughter, and the sound of glasses clinking — a toast among a table of friends. John Pinamonte warmed up the new music space with country rhythm and blues, and what a sweet sound it was.

Nancy Drew's artwork graces The Silver Gallery walls. The regular Freddy's entertainment will soon fill this room... opera divas, independent film, stand-up comedy, sketch comedy, original live music, H.A.M., the country jam... and of course Knit Nite.

Beneath the bar crest, Kellum and crew were finishing the exterior of the bar — pegged woodwork made from a weathered barn donated from upstate. The same weathered wood also adorns the interior.

That whole ugly mess that is New York State's abuse of eminent domain and misappropriation of funds still makes my head throb. It's a disease borne from generations of cronyism, true greed, and paid favors for the wealthiest from the wealthiest... How much does a judge's vote cost these days? As long as someone upstate is still padding their purses behind a locked door, this horror we call Albany may never change.

The proponents of the Atlantic Yards Project continue to manufacture hype about an arena that fills a need in a community, and how it will bring jobs to all... etc. Our borough president insists we need this basketball team from New Jersey to be the heart of Brooklyn. What's he been smoking? Bull crap I say. They barely know what do with the blight and traffic they've created. They all could a take a tip from some real people and a real community.

Meanwhile, somewhere in South Slope Brooklyn, in the tiny neighborhood called Greenwood Heights, hope for the small guy is reborn in the year of the Golden Rabbit. Three cheers to Don O'Finn, Matt Kimmet, and Matt Kuhn, and thank you so much for hanging there!

Freddy's Bar is located at 627 5th Avenue between 17th & 18th streets. Drop in and say hello.