Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Loop and Lupe's


Strangely, I have not been knitting socks much lately. I have also been very good and have not added to my sock yarn stash either (except if you count the 3 skeins of Sundara Fingering I got recently, but that will be slated for a shawl). I guess hats are the new socks for me now. But I did finish these a few weeks ago, and forgot to share them:
Lion Brand Wool
Size 7 addis - 63" cables I think - Magic Loop

The pattern is from the amazing sock guru Kristen at ComeToSilver.com. That woman can teach anyone how to knit a pair of socks, and in a variety of ways. I learned my first cuff down on 4 dpns from her very informative tutorial, and now I picked up 2 socks done toe-up on one long circ, aka Magic Loop Method.
Pros:
1. 2 socks done at the same time (as my 16 year old would say, "Duh!")

Cons:
1. I wasn't sure where to start the heel (with the cuff-down method I start the heel when the sock is long enough on my leg, I then start the toe when it reaches my toe cleavage...)
2. Picking up my heel stitches created gaps. I tried it three times before I gave up and hoped it would shift and redistribute itself after the first wash, which it has done somewhat.
I didn't use a stretchy enough bindoff. Fortunately my feet are skinny.
3. I started the ribbing too soon. I only had one skein of Lion Wool, and I was afraid of running out. I almost did, and they're not much more than an inch over my ankle.

But did I mention, both socks are done at the same time? Yes of course I did. It kind of outshines the negatives. And wow, that worsted weight wool made it quick and WARM. I don't need another pair of worsted weight socks, but this was a good weight to learn on - quick results. Oh and another thing. They're black. That's a staple color in my wardrobe, but murder on my eyes while knitting.
And now I leave you with my favorite Mexican restaurant - Lupe's on Watts and Sixth, NYC. Great everything, especially the guacamole and margaritas.


3 comments:

Angie said...

I know another place for great chili and margarita's. It's called 'Karen's Kitchen' and it's in Garden City. It's a very nice place, but I warn you, the waiter takes tips in catnip only.

DonnaC said...

I've been there too! But I thought the menu was strictly muffins and coffee! Come to think of it, I did see a margarita glass drying on the counter...

picperfic said...

whether I am knitting socks top down or toe up I use Grumperina's method of picking up the stiches for the heel... http://www.grumperina.com/knitblog/archives/2005/10/theres_the_easy.htm

It makes a very pretty and neat pick up :^)