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is "Superwash" anyway? "Superwash" simply means that the fine scales of the wool's fiber (yes, it applies to wool only) are covered with a very fine layer of synthetic resin. This resin prohibits the fibers from interlocking as much, and felting less when washed (since felting is NOT desired on all designs worked out of wool). Wool garments equipped with Superwash can be machine washed on Delicate at up to 40 degrees. Please note, the information on the label will indicate the correct washing temperature for each yarn.
(original source May 2004 newsletter SKACEL COLLECTION, re-printed with permission)
"How do I keep the cast-on edge neat and flat when starting cables?" Kathy answers: Ah, the dreaded cable flare! The most important thing to understand is that this occurs because of the difference in gauge between the cable and the edge. The best information I have read regarding the topic of starting and stopping cables appeared in an INTERWEAVE KNITS Winter 1999 "Beyond The Basics" article by Mary Spanos. Mary recommends this trick: cast on half the number of stitches needed for each cable, then pick up the remaining stitches from the back of the stitches on the first row of knitting (i.e., the purl bumps on the backside when using long-tail cast on). For more information, this technique was used in my Cable High-Neck Tank in the current Summer 2004 issue of INTERWEAVE KNITS and the increase method is explained in detail on page 12.
July 2004 tips and ideas
***** SLIP STITCH KNITTING -- EASY, FAST, AND FASCINATING *****
Would you like to add texture and color to your knitting, but want to keep it simple? Beautiful effects can be achieved with slip-stitch patterns, when worked either in a solid color or in 2 or more colors. Stitches are slipped holding the yarn in front of the work (facing the knitter) or behind the work (away from the knitter). This is typically abbreviated as "wyif" (with yarn in front) or "wyib" (with yarn in back).
The resulting knitted fabric is denser and firmer than stockinette stitch, so select a knitting needle one or two sizes larger than you would when working the same yarn in stockinette stitch. Slip-stitch patterns tend to draw the rows in more tightly, so more rows will be needed to reach the desired length. Pay special attention to gauge --
do a swatch, wash or block it, and measure your work frequently to re-check.
Donna McGranahan of SKACEL COLLECTION shares this tip: "When working with chenille yarns, keep the smooth side of the pile towards you to control any problem with worming. Strip away fibers from the core of the strand and knot at the end to prevent shedding". Lisa Carnahan also tells us that you can get a fluffier outcome with thick eyelash yarns by working them against the pile. Thanks, Donna & Lisa
Are you travelling, and forgot to pack scissors for take-along projects? No problem!Heather Kalidin uses the cutter on a dental floss container when scissors aren't available -- this works very well. Thanks, Heather!
July 2004 tips and ideas cont
Delicate lace knitting is making a comeback. Before beginning your project with
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