Announcing FiberFrau Book 2

The FiberFrau Series continues with Knitted Scarves for the Adventurous Knitter .  This book includes complete instructions for the Amity Tree Scarf, a Hunger Games-inspired fire scarf, and a scarf based on the Fibonacci sequence for you real math geeks.

Please post a review on Smashwords after you read the book.  I'd love feedback while I'm working on Book 3!

Chart for Amity Tree Scarf

Here is the chart for my Divergent-inspired Amity scarf.  Complete instructions for the shaped scarf will be published in my next knitting pattern book on Smashwords and Amazon.

Scarf Patterns Published!

I have compiled patterns for three of my "Divergent" fan scarves into an e-book available in multiple formats (including printable PDF) on Smashwords. Buy the book once and get access to all the formats.  You can keep patterns on your Kindle, Kobo, Nook, or Sony device, read them online, or print a paper copy.

The Abnegation, Candor, and Factionless scarves are included in this volume, along with a bonus pattern for my all-time favorite shawl/scarf in drop-stitch lace.

Candor Scarf in Progress

Another Scarf Inspired by the Divergent Trilogy

Here is the Factionless or Faction Unity Scarf.  It incorporates all the colors of the various factions in the Divergent trilogy novels.  Every color touches every other color at least once.  It was knitted flat in stockinette stitch, 12 rows per stripe, then seamed up the side to make a tube.  The multicolored fringe closes the ends of the tube for a cozy, 2-layered scarf.

Update on Divergent-inspired Scarves

Abnegation scarf is finished, Amity scarf is two-thirds done, and a Candor scarf is on the needles.  I am doing a black and white "random" stripe pattern for Candor.  Blue yarn is on hand for Erudite, although I haven't settled on a design yet.  Maybe an eye in purl stitches?

I'm saving Dauntless for last.  I've considered a flame pattern or a punk design with dropped stitches, holes, and charms (piercings.)  Any ideas, readers?  Leave suggestions in the comments section below.

Here's a link to more pictures and the simple instructions for the garter stitch Abnegation scarf.

Knitting Inspired by the "Divergent" Trilogy

In Divergent by Veronica Roth, society is divided into five factions based on the virtue a person values most.  At age sixteen each individual must choose a faction to join for the rest of their lives.  The factions have distinct characters and even distinct clothing colors, so I decided to let them inspire my next batch of knitted scarves.

Shown above is the "Amity" scarf, which is a tree trunk.  The branches will be done later in duplicate stitch. Amity is the faction that values peace and harmony above all.  They are the society's farmers and nurturers.

Abnegation is the selfless faction.  Like the Amish, they dress in plain clothing to help them forget their differences and their pride.  The book describes them as having gray clothing, gray houses, and dull metal wedding bands.  I am knitting a practical, plain garter stitch scarf in grey heather yarn for "Abnegation," although the picture I took looks blue.

The other three factions are:

• Candor: the honest, who dress in black and white, no grey areas;
• Erudite: the intelligent, who dress in blue and value knowledge above all; and
• Dauntless: the brave, who dress mostly in black with plenty of tattoos.

I will eventually get pictures and patterns up for all these factions.  I love knitting and books.  If you do, too, check out the following:

Parent's Guide to YA Literature (including Divergent)

Charmed Knits book review (for Harry Potter readers)

Helpful Knitting Articles

Check out some of the best books for teaching knitting.
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Read my review of Charmed Knits by Alison Hansel, with pictures of some of the projects I've already made from the book.  Here's one picture:

Essential Books for Knitting Teachers

Essential Books for Knitting Teachers is a review of the resources I have used successfully.  I've also included some interesting websites, a video, and a continental v. English knitting poll.  Please stop by and participate.

Time to Start Making Costumes

Don't procrastinate.  Halloween, Fall Festivals, and even Christmas Plays will be here before you know it.  Here are some helpful articles for your encouragement and inspiration:

Making Kids' Costumes: Web Resources

Ideas for Angel Costumes

Easy Historical Costumes for Children

Also, be thinking about Thanksgiving projects: centerpieces, Sunday School crafts, etc.

New Knit and Crochet Articles

Check these out:

Make Lace!

Knitting Techniques with Project Photos

Making, Tying, and Buying Bow Ties

With prom season upon us, here is some information on bow ties for men, including links to free patterns:

 Make a Statement with a Bow Tie.

Knitting Shawls

Check out this article with links to free patterns for shawls to knit.  A simple shawl pattern is included in the article, too.