Sandra's Designing Blog

This is an exclusive area of my web site where you can find out more about my knitted designs, what inspires me, how I work and what I like (and don't like) to design. 
 
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  1. For people new to knitting, maybe you've looked at pretty charms like these ones below and thought why do we use them in our knitting?
    Woop! New products just landed in my web site. Pretty charming handmade stitch markers. Just so happy to see these in my store. I’ll be adding them as extra options with kits etc but in the meantime you can browse and buy now.

     


     Stitch markers are essential tools in knitting and crochet projects used to mark a specific point in your work, helping you keep track of pattern repeats, increases, decreases, or any other significant points. The markers come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to suit different preferences and project needs.

    Here's a breakdown of the two main types of stitch markers:

    1. Ring Stitch Markers:

      • These are circular markers that can be slipped onto the needle.
      • Ring markers are typically made of plastic, metal, or rubber and come in various sizes to accommodate different needle sizes and yarn weights.
      • They're easy to move along the needle and can be used repeatedly across different projects.
    2. Lobster Claw Clasps (or Clip-On Stitch Markers):

      • These markers have a lobster claw clasp attached to them, allowing you to clip them directly onto the stitches in your work.
      • Lobster clasps come in different shapes and sizes, but they typically have a small, spring-loaded mechanism that opens and closes the clasp.
      • They are handy for marking specific points in your project, especially when you need to move the marker frequently or when working with delicate stitches.
      • Lobster clasps are also versatile and can be used as progress keepers or to mark the beginning of a round or row or to make the right side of the work.

    The choice between ring stitch markers and lobster claw clasps often comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project. Ring markers are great for general use and can easily slide along your needles, while lobster clasps provide a more secure attachment and are ideal for marking specific stitches or points in your work. Ultimately, both types serve the same purpose of helping you keep track of your stitches and pattern repeats as you knit or crochet.

    Browse the new stitch markers
  2. Local News

    I've a little bit of exciting news!
    I don't know whether any of you have heard about the Knitting & Crochet Guild here in the UK?  

    Knitting & Crochet Guild - Knitting & Crochet Guild (kcguild.org.uk)

    They are a UK-based charity dedicated to hand knitting, domestic machine knitting and crochet, run by volunteers and supported by subscriptions and donations.

    Community is at the heart of their ethos and they aim to bring together enthusiastic yarn creatives from across the Globe. They are passionate about taking our crafts into the future while respecting the traditions and skills of the past. They look to encourage, inspire and be inspired by amazing makers at local level through the branches and the wider Guild community. They are here to facilitate learning new skills and about the history of knitting and crochet.

    The collection is on line for members but more interestingly for me, the collection is held in a mill in my local village Slaithwaite !! and whilst I don't volunteer for the collection team (yet!) I have (along with 3 friends) volunteered to run the monthly Huddersfield Branch meetings. 

    All 4 of us (Duna, Roz, Gill and myself) have a passion for knitting and crocheting and are excited about having the Huddersfield meetings in Slaithwaite too.  Find out where and when by clicking here.

    Find a branch near you or start your own
    Join us knitting in public in Slaithwaite on June 8th 2024.