Kelly Doust introduces readers to her wonderful world of reviving and customising vintage pieces, while bringing a modern and unique twist to wearing vintage clothes – Dita Von Teese
Hello Wonderland
Beaut boys' knit by Milla Mia
How do crafty minxes unwind? They craft, for a start – Olive’s scarf is almost done, hurrah – and (in my case, at least) eat. Like bears before hibernation. Back to yoga tomorrow to work off all those rich, day-long meals consumed on holiday. Husband is worried he’s looking a little portly as well. Nice if we could indulge without turning into teletubbies, but there you have it.
Scarves & blankets & flowers provide a good entrée into yarn obsession to be sure, but I’m hankering for more of a challenge. I’ll continue with crochet this winter but next year, I’m going the full knitwit.
Milla Mia have featured on the site before because their childrens’ knitting patterns are so darn cute and stylish. And they’ve just released another book with 19 new patterns, Wonderland, as gorgeous and inspiring as previous titles The Close Knit Gang and Bright Young Things. Soon I will attempt one of these and even finish it – preferably before Olive turns 18.
Cardis, how I love thee... let me count the ways
My first hoodie by Milla Mia
Fabulous Fair Isle
Tres chic knitted coat
Can I have one of these, please? Love a grandpa sweater
Maja’s knitfest, and a little Ravelry
Baby Jasper digs his hoodie
Remember Maja? She emailed today to share one of her creations for son Jasper. Isn’t it gorgeous? Just so soft and cosy-looking, it also seems to have some complicated knitwork going on there… I’m so impressed.
Maja’s top tip for knitters and aspiring knitters is to sign up to Ravelry for patterns and links to people everywhere knitting and crocheting – it’s like Facebook for crafters, apparently. I’m onto it.
And we shoot all the final images for book four tomorrow and this Saturday, plus the design awards (where A Life in Frocks has been nominated) are on Thursday night… very busy few days ahead. All fingers and toes crossed the sun shines on us, and my cold magically disappears. Wouldn’t that be lovely?
Down with the J-crew
A much-loved woollen beanie
More on hats, and more on Rebecca, who makes the most wonderful scarves and beanies and sources her yarns from Morris & Sons… for my last birthday, she knitted me this beautifully soft beanie in a lovely shade of eggshell. The delicious chill in the air has prompted me to pull it out from storage so I can finally wear it.
And check out the tag – yes, her handwriting really is that cute.
MillaMia knitting patterns
'Alex' poncho
How cute is this site? I love these modern knits for children and delicious-looking yarns, which are from the UK but have a chic, Scandinavian feel. If anything can convince me to learn more complex knitting skills, it’s this. I’m particularly fond of the ‘Bright Young Things’ collection… they deliver to Australia, too.
Scarlet yarn
Lark Handmade
Knitted teaset from Lark Handmade
Love this site, both for its super-cute, well chosen items and total ethos supporting handmade and ethical products. And they deliver in no time at all, too.
Knit me a cake or two