Spun-Kaye

Black & Gold hand Felt Hat

2011-06-20T23:53:00.000-07:00

This black felt hats looks very smart with a very pretty gold ribbon and I found a very nice beaded gold jewellery piece to sew on the front.

Red and Purple Hand Felt Hat

2011-06-20T23:49:00.000-07:00

Red felt hat with a red purple flower embellished with purple tussah silk.

Flowery Hand Felt Hats

2011-06-20T23:43:00.000-07:00

I've gone all flowery with these hand felted hats.
Lavender, Autumn tones , Sky blue

Hat Shapers

2011-06-17T00:35:00.000-07:00

I used one of these hat shapers to shape this little black wet felted hat.
There are so many styles and if you think you would like one or many please contack Sue Mott . info@tasmaniafibre.com.au

or www.Highland Felting & Fibre Supplies

or ring her 03 64961942

Winter Felt Hats

2011-06-17T00:27:00.000-07:00

Why not look smart and sophistocated in one of these felt hats.
I have wet felted the blue and red using merino fleece and added a flower to show it off.

Winter Beanies 2011

2011-06-17T00:20:00.000-07:00

Different styles, to keep us warm these cold winter days.

Honey, Blueberry & Raspberry shades.

Dark Brown Felt Hat

2011-05-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

This hat I used natural dark brown fleece from South Australia and a little courser than I use for most of my hats being 18 micron Merino, but I like a change and each fibre gives a different result.
I made this hat using the larger size resist and therefor a larger crown and brim.
I added embellishments of green/brown silk and two commercial yarns in those tonings to give it texture.

See this hat at Bellingen May 2011

Sapphire Blue Felt Hat

2011-05-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

Wide Brim with embellishments of Silk, Rayon & commercial yarn are a feature of this Hand Felted Hat.

See this hat at Bellingen Market May 2011.

Erupting Volcano Felt Hat

2011-05-08T23:23:00.000-07:00

Earth ,Water, Wind, Fire is the theme for this years Alice Springs Beanie Festival 2011. I am entering this in the competition and see if I have any luck but after being up at Alice Springs a couple of years back and seeing the competition entries I havent much luck, but I would be happy to sell it.
If have just finished this hat and have packed it away with other beanies and spun wool yarns.
I used pre dyed merino fleece and tussah silk and angelina (glitter) for embellishement.
It would fit a large size head but probably worn at a party or for a Fun event.

Alpaca Suri Beanie

2011-05-08T00:33:00.000-07:00

An earlier post shows me carding alpaca suri very dark reddish chocolate brown.
It wasn't long before I spun it up and knitted this beanie. I found this scorpian in a shop so sewed it on. Rather gruesome.

Below is the other alpaca I spun up and knitted a soft beret type beanie.
It looks like I have a strip of darker colour alpaca but it just happened that way

Suri Alpaca Carded- Bonnie

2011-04-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

I was given a bag of reddish brown Suri Alpaca its name Bonnie and as I had previously washed a handull of it. I first used that on my Wild Carder. I was pleasantly surprised at the result as it looked similar to human hair and carded easily.
After finishing an amount I decided that it would be a little differcult for me to spin, so found a previous bag of similar colour alpaca wool mix that I carded my suri in with this mix. I ended up with about 300gms.

Carding ALPACA

2011-04-30T22:08:00.000-07:00

The sun was out this morning so sitting on my verandah decided to card some alpaca that I was given on my Wild Carder.
It was just off white with a light brown tinge. I did wash a small amount previously so used that first but I wanted to card more of this Alpaca (Crystal)
I carded up about 170grms.

Scarf Exchange 2011

2011-04-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

Scarf Exchange 2011 is being organised by the HANDWEAVERS SPINNERS AND DYERS GUILD OF TASMANIA.. theme : Head: Shoulders :Knees
I received 150gms of white Corridale fleece and my instructions stated that I could dye it and the sender would like either Head or Shoulders.
I decided to felt a hat so first I had to dye the fleece Red.
When the time came I had to look for what I was going to embellish it with.
I found in my stash pre-dyed black & pre-dyed red tussah silk. red glitter and some commercial yarn with black red green combined.
After the hat was completed I had some fleece left over so again with the same red/black silk spun up some yarn and knitted one of my scarfettes. It also could be worn as a head band. Now I hope the felted hat when sent by post doesnt end up flat and out of shape. I will have to think of a good way to pack it.

Its A Dogs Life

2011-04-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

Milly ( black and white Border Collie) and Jilly ( brown and white Mini foxy x Jack Russel x Wippet x Kangaroo) Having a restfull time white I am busy going about my daily tasks. Where the bloodddy hell am I going to sit.?????

Hand Felted Hats April Show

2011-04-18T02:01:00.000-07:00

Hand felted hats are very nice to wear and they dress up an outfit. These 3 styles are colourful and each have a bit of decoration added to them.

These will be for sale at Bellingen Market.

White Alpaca Beanie

2011-04-18T01:51:00.000-07:00

I was given some lovely white alpaca and spun it up. Left it white as white is a popular colour. Made for a lady who likes her beanies to hang loose.

Designer Yarn Beanies

2011-04-18T01:21:00.000-07:00

When I have spun up some designer yarn I always wonder what style is best suited. Top beanie I spun up the softest light blue merino with white mohair and glitter yarn. Pattern used is Knit 2 Purl 2 wide band with a long body allowing for a good head of hair. Below is designer yarn I spun up using natural black alpaca with dyed mohair . Similar style for a close hugging beanie

Coiled Beanies No 2

2011-04-18T01:13:00.000-07:00

I have been enjoying knitting up this style beanie. Everyone is different. Grey has an extended body allowing for long hair, Green has only a short body and fits close to the head and the Red has a longer body and an opening at the end for a pony tail to hang out of.

Red & Black Felt Evening Bag

2011-04-18T01:08:00.000-07:00

Just for a bit of Bling I added a sequined designed application to a red and black wet felt bag. It is only small, but big enough to hold keys, mobil phone, wallet.

Coiled Beanies No 1

2011-03-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is my new design I am using for several of my yarns as it sits on the head of mostly people with smaller heads. very flaterring. Of course all yarns are different on colour and thickness which result in an individual beanie. Just for You.

Soft hand spun/ dyed merino wool is a delight to wear. Available at March 2011 Bellingen Market

Big March Madness Beanie

2011-03-16T19:29:00.000-07:00

This beanie would suit a person with a big boof head (sorry about that) or one with dreadlocks. I used handspun designer yarn in earthy tones, leaving the joining yarns a feature.

I am taking this to March 2011 Bellingen Market, get one early for winter as it is one of a kind like all my hats are not massed produced. All is a piece of art using wool.

March Madness Beanie

2011-03-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

I loved these bright colours for wearing on a dull day to brighten ones self up.
I used many of my handspun/dyed designer yarns leaving the joining yarns a feature..

I am taking this to March 2011 Bellingen Market

Orange Beanie & Scarfette

2011-02-13T23:03:00.000-08:00

C.R Hope you like this Orange Beanie and Scarfette Set should be arriving in the mail this week. Keep the chilling winds away.

Using merino fleece, spun it up on my Babe Spinning Wheel, dyed it using Rust and yellow, then knitted using my denise circular needles and then using the magic loop method ( no double pointed needles required).

A Snake in the Hen House

2011-02-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

In checking for eggs this morning looking in the left side box was curled this rather large python snake.
It was carefully and quickly popped in my very usefull cat cage.
My neighbour who is well into snakes said it was very full probably from rats. All my chooks seemed to be about and I collect eggs daily.
This happened last year and I lost my lovely Rumball. The Snake was let out in the bush about 7 kms away. It was about 4 metres long.
I just hope it hasnt any memories and comes back again. Best left in the banana plantations.

R.I.P. Henmeralda (SID)

2011-02-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

Henmeralda Passed away 3.00 pm.Sat.5.2.11 The old girl she lived as we worked out to be over 10 years old and laid many many large white eggs up till abut 3 days before her passing.
She was the BOSS of all the girls and was rather vicious it seemed to me towards the other chooks as they were afraid to eat from the same bowl as they knew they would be pecked.
I named her SID Vicious as she pecked the back of my bare legs or bare feet in thongs when I went to the shed to grain. The name stayed.

Jilly my little dog and Sid had many confrontations. Sid loved to come inside via the broken fly wire screen which we called the "Doggy door" the as well as the "Chookie door."

When Jilly saw Sid inside she would go for her tail to pick on her feathers and Sid would generally turn around to peck her ,but wouldnt, then escape fastly out the Chookie door.

Sid generally left a donation (not money) (wheres the mop?)

Jilly in this photo is eatting bread given to the chooks, If its good enough for them its good enough for me.

Eggtastic

2011-02-05T18:28:00.001-08:00

I was very happy to see this egg what I believe 99% sure it is from one of my Rhode Island Red X New Hemshire chooks.
It was sitting on the newspaper where one off them roosts at night.
I took the photo with the egg sitting on one of my many potholders with a poultry theme.

This egg is just a bit darker than my usual eggs and with speckles on it.

Now I expect 6 others to follow. I wish there was a way I could tell who's egg is who's??

Daisey The Silkie X

2011-01-30T02:08:00.000-08:00

I think Daisey is a stunning looking Chook. Her top silkie feathers are jet black with a black shinny beak. The Feathers have streaks of steel grey, white with darker feathers at the back. She was born 29th May 2010 and her first egg 12th Nov.2010 after her batch of eggs she then went clucky thinking she had to hatch them, but of course I take the eggs daily from their nest. Silkies arent the best layers and go clucky after laying about 12 eggs but they are just so cute to look at.

My Backyard Friends

2011-01-30T01:52:00.000-08:00

It was 1st September 2011 that I picked up 7 day old Rhode Island Red X with New Hemshire chickens. they are now about 24 weeks so in the next couple of weeks they should be laying. They are a delight to have in my backyard.
This is Ginger, she stands out from the rest as she has a distinct white band of white feathers just down from her base of the neck at the back.
This is Fooee a rather strange looking rooster unlike my silkies does not have the fluffy silkie feathers on top of her head but has a cone which has grown on a slant very similair to her brother Louee, who started crowing very early is now wandering with other roosters on a farm as I could not keep him as I live in a built up area.
I hatched out Louee & Fooee 21st August and Fooee has just started crowing which to me is unusual to suddenly turn out to be a rooster with his unusual crow not fully developed. I will keep him till her becomes a nuisance.

I watch my girls from my kitchen window when washing the dishes and laugh at their actions of either finding a worm, resting and having a sunbake, and they even have stare out competitons between 2 chooks. I have them free range during the day and a rainproof Henhouse for them to sleep at night. The garden has plenty of shady spots and I have many bowls of water for them during these hot days. They have found a good dust bath spot behind the house inbetween some pot plants.

Mittens the Himalayan Cat

2011-01-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

This is Mittens the beautiful Himalayan Cat. She was rescued and is now living a lovely life with her new caring Mom. Mittens grows extra long soft fur during winter and towards summer it has to be combed regularly so that she won't get fur -balls .
Her Mom has collected the fur and kept it in a bag hoping someone could spin it up. I was given the fur in hoping that I could justice to it.
As previous post you can see the proceedure I had to go through, but I was very happy with the result and so after handing the spun yarn to her, she was too.

The owner "D" gave me money for my effort which I doubled it and sent off to the R.S.P.C.A. Queensland Flood relief appeal. I received a lovely letter back,so hopefully we have a better well fed animal. People who read this please donate to this worthy cause. Especially if You own an animal and know how much pleasure it gives to You. Our animals are very precious and can't turn to Insurance Companies for money.

Himalayan Cat Fur Spun Up

2011-01-22T14:42:00.000-08:00

I was given some of Mittens the Himalayan cat's FUR (by its owner) and asked if I could spin it up for her. I carden it with my 18 micron merino fleece in 50% fleece to 50% fur. I then spun it up on my Babe Spinning Wheel.
I did try to spin it not too thick. In places I just let the fur just be fur and not a blend and at times the Merino just came through. I then plied it back with white pure wool yarn.
Washed it in shampoo and the rinsed in hair conditioner.( as it is special )
I am now hoping the cat owner is happy with it and able to knit a scarf or beanie as a gesture to her beloved cat.

From top to bottom photos " Cat fur and fleece" "Cat fur and merino fleece carded" " Finished spun yarn hanging on the clothes line after being washed " "close up view"

Red and Pink/Blue Holee Scarf

2011-01-18T02:27:00.000-08:00

Just a couple more scarfs I have felted using the proceedure I have briefly described in an earlier post, my technique.
With most hand made garments everyone is individual and never end up the same.

We use different fibres and different applications which makes an entirely different result.

Making a Felted Scarf

2011-01-18T00:10:00.002-08:00

First start with your chosen fibre, this time I was given a small 50 grams of two different pinks and a yellow merino fibre plus some glitter and angelina.
From Tasmania house of Fibre. www.tasmaniafibre.com

I work in my garage on two tables to make the length I require.
Lay plastic to protect your tables.
Using material as my template for the size of my working scarf I laid that on the table.
Using random colours of felt (on top of my template) I laid out the edges then filled in with swirls and spikes and whatever, to fill most the inside.
Then I used glitter and angelina to highlight spots.
I found in my stash a suitable yarn and laid that on top
Cover with a nylon material as this will hold the laid out scarf ready for felting

Using Hot soapy water drizzle over it all and rub gently at first with a plasic bag in your hand. Keep rubbing until you feel it has slightly felted. Lift nylon and look at scarf and touch and repair any places that need it.
Replace nylon and rub for many times.
Lift nylon and then remove scarf of under template.
The scarf is now ready for the throwing which I do in this process instead of using a bamboo blind. Throwing many times and then looking at it and throw again till it is ready. Holes will form but that is what I was after.
When I am happy I rinse well and final in fabric softner.
Hang to dry and when dry, iron carefully.Its now ready to show it off and wear and hope someones says ."thats a lovely scarf, Did You make It ?" "Yes"

Holee Felted Scarf x 2 (Purples)

2011-01-06T23:00:00.000-08:00

These two scarfs may look the same but different in feeling as top one is slightly thicker and less holes. Being that top one I felted more and different fleece.
I used 18 micron predyed merino fleece and added embellishments of glitter,
raw silk thread and mauve rayon thread.

The bottom scarf I was given a small packet of black purple grey merino mixed with pink and orange silk carded together. I just had to make a scarf with it so as after I first laid out the carded fleece and found in my stash embellishments to compliment it. Glitter, angelina, mohair rayon thread was used.
I made more holes it this scarf and as the small packet was given to me by a special friend I am keeping this scarf for myself.

I am taking these scarfs to be on display and also for sale at the Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens Spinners Exhibition that will be held Jan 21st to 26th.

Holee Felted Scarf x 2 ( Pink,)(White&Black)

2011-01-06T22:39:00.000-08:00

These scarfs are supposed to have holes, which make it light to wear as well as giving warmth around the neck.
The black and white I first laid out 18 micron merino natural white fleece and then added embellishments of a black yarn I had in my stash and another black fine pure wool thread let it fall on the scarf.

The pink scarf was pre dyed pink 18 micron merino fleece which I laid out and in my stash found a pink glitter, pink angelina, pinkish grey mohair, and pale pink rayon thread that I just let it fall on the scarf.

Making these scarfs I only used one layer and are very delicate to make ,on purpose I made the holes to create just something different to a plain scarf. They are only short in length but enough to make a tie with them.

Galahs Temporary Home

2010-12-22T22:39:00.000-08:00

Rabbit Rabbit, cough cough and the loudest squeeks come from this large cage at the side of my house. My sister is moving house and for a few days these two galahs (no names) will live here until they are ready to move the whole cage to their new grounds.
Don't put your fingers or any bodily part near them as they have the hardest bite and does it hurt.
It was orginally for their cat who love to curl up inside, then it had matting and other things cats like, but now long grass is inside. We added extra perches for them, water bowls and feed trays.
I covered the back with black builders plastic which I use for the chookies cages as it is cheaper than tarps but will keep them a little dryer but a little rain wont hurt them. They are birds and used of rain.
I will have to find another place for my hanging geraniums and other pot plants when it is removed.

Felt Magazine Issue 4

2010-12-22T01:58:00.000-08:00

I am always happy to receive a magazine in the post and can't wait till my chores are done and I can sit with a cuppa and go through it.
Yarn magazine and Felt magazine arrived the same day so it was a bonus.
I flick through rather fast then start at the beginning and take it slowly reading the articles.
It was the Felt magazine that when I reached page 44and 45 I took an extra look as it was the article that Grace Brambley talked to both Kerry and I about her writing it. I hope some people get to read it and take note that Kerry has been doing this for some time and put her heart and soul into her creations.
When ever I call around which is always the Friday before Bellingen market day to load up the van with our stock. She has pots of wool dyeing, wool hanging on the line drying and displayed in her lounge room ( well used to be).

I have know Kerry for a long time now and between us run a very friendly Market stall where clients can chat and ask questions and we answer as best we can.

Hand Felted Glasses Cases

2010-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

What a bright selection of Glasses Cases and different sizes. Many uses
either for glasses, sun glasses, camera, phone. notepads and pens. scissors and tape measures.

I start using hand dyed colour tops of merino fleece then add bits of dyed mohair, spun yarn, glitter, or what ever that I have in my stash to create a pleasing texture.

Hand Felted Red Hat With Flowers

2010-12-15T23:50:00.000-08:00

A very striking red hand felted hat with a couple of flowers attached to give it a bit of glamour. I used merino fleece which gives it a lovely texture.

Hand Felted Wide Brim Hats

2010-12-15T23:45:00.000-08:00

A motled grey wide brim hand felted hat

A dark green wide floppy brim hand felted hat

These hats will be for sale at this months December Bellingen Market weather permitting.

Scarf Exchange 2010

2010-11-17T03:31:00.000-08:00

This is the scarf I received in return from sending to Geelong Handweavers & Spinners Guild Inc. 2010 my 150 grams of 18 micron merino fleece.

The colour is perfectly blended.
The pattern and length is perfect.
I received it from Y D. from Augusta . W.A. 6290.

Wide Brim Hand Felt hats

2010-11-17T03:19:00.000-08:00

For this wide brim white hat all I have added is the band which I added to the fleece (being 18 micron merino fleece) some white natural mohair and silver glitter.

This green with brown brim hat has a band of the green and brown twisted and felted for decoration.

The back view showing the indent on the top of the crown, and the band tie I have made it a feature to show off at the side. It can be moved to the back if the wearer prefers.

I am taking these hats to the Bellingen Market this Sat weather permitting as the rain fall has been predicted for a few more days.

Flower Power Felted hats

2010-11-14T21:44:00.000-08:00

I used a blend of blue and burgundy merino fleece for this hat and added a flower to dress it up.

A blend of purple merino fleece for this hat then I added a flower using soft mohair.

This hat is worn close to the head giving it a roaring forties look.

I am taking these hats to November Bellingen market

Stylish Hand Felted Hat

2010-11-14T21:03:00.000-08:00

I used a blend of brown and black merino fleece for this wide brim hat.
I only added a fine matching band. Suitable for male or female.

Large Size. Ready to take to November Bellingen market

Glamour Hand Felted Hat

2010-11-14T20:52:00.001-08:00

I used this softed violet merino fleece and then made up some daisys to glamour it up.

Large Size. Ready to take to November Bellingen market

Frankie & Pip come to stay

2010-10-30T23:47:00.000-07:00

Frankie & Pip came to stay whilst his Mum and Dad had to go away for the weekend and I was given the enjoyable task of looking after them. My little dog Jilly just loves them and even let them sleep in the guest room bed.

New Bed and Accessories

2010-10-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

It was time to get a new Queen size bed and after trying many settled on this very bouncy chiropractor approved one. Then I had to get a couple of new King size doona and quilts as the Queen size doona looked like a pimple on a pumpkin. The King size hangs nicely over the mattress just showing the base.
Sweet Dreams zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Maisey now Marvin

2010-10-30T23:34:00.000-07:00

Oh No was that a crow.???? Yes it was, now Maisey seems to be a rooster so guess we have to call him Marvin (front right).
It is now well into 19 weeks when it is when Hens first start laying. I am waiting for Daisy to lay her first egg.
As for (left) Chrissy the black chook is a dud. I first thought that she may have laid an egg but it could not have been hers as she does go into the pen and sit but leaves nothing behind. If anyone has a solution to my problem I would like to know.
How do I get her to lay??. Fluffy ( left behind) is a good layer but goes clucky often and not a good mother. (Right behind) is one of my last babies and growing fast. So cute.

Hoppy Recovered

2010-10-30T23:20:00.000-07:00

Hoppy is no longer hopping and is now hard to tell which one she is when all the other 6 Rhode Island Reds X are pecking about. She does seem to be very friendly when I am potting about in their section of the garden. I am trying to make it look pleasing to the eye as well as chook friendly. Having placed a few hanging baskets about and now in the process of erecting a support for some large bean seeds I was given and now popping their heads from the soil.
Also I have a tub full of Jap Pumpkins seedlings that need to have some support very soon so again I have to think what am I going to do. I have just started with the bird cage wire and timber I collected from the street collection I think I will be able to manage.

Hoppy out in the Sunshine

2010-10-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

Poor Hoppy has a limp due to a sore claw. I have put her in my cat cage and nighly I bath it in salt water and dust on some antiseptic powder. At least it should not get infected as it may have if she was outside with germs.
She is getting special treatment with food treats. I am not quite sure if her foster Mum is going to take her back time will tell. I have her outside in the sunshine. Her extended family visit her to get some food that I have given her plus extra for all. The silky x are looking like they will have the fluffy head as at first it didnt seem to appear but as they grow bigger it is more noticeable.
The Rhode Island Red X is what hoppy is, are growing and getting their pin feathers. My back yard is alive with not only them but visiting pigeons and the odd Raven.

It is nice to see sunshine after a good two weeks of rain. The chook yard was very muddy underfoot not that they minded extra worms must have been popping their heads up. Wrong if your the worm. It was who could run the fastest would get it. I have taken my knitting outside to sit and to watch them. You forget your problems and get to soothe the inner soul watching them. Who cares about housework. tomorrow will do.

Felted Soap, Soap, Soap

2010-10-09T00:18:00.000-07:00

What lovely felted soap covers of all designs happen when given a cake of soap and coloured merino fleece, water and detergent. I was given the task of demonstration to lots of lovely ladies at the Coffs Showground Gallery. A seniors day held trying to get other ladies aware of other crafts besides sewing and knitting.
I am sure the ladies enjoyed the day and thrilled with the felted soap that they made.

Felted Flower Power

2010-10-09T00:07:00.000-07:00

Its amazing what beautiful flowers are created using some coloured merino fleece, soap and water. To the delight of many women attending the Coffs Showground for seniors, 9th Oct.10. when the ladies from the spinners and weavers took time to show the local ladies what they could do. It surprised them all of the final flower that emerged. I can see Coffs Harbour streets being brightened up with ladies wearing flowers in their hair, on their bags or hats.

Pretty Pink Beanie

2010-10-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

I hand spun up some pre carded mix of pinks and violet hand dyed merino wool which also had some mohair mixed in. I plied it back with pink glitter thread and added some angelina as well. When I finished this yarn it didnt have as much length as I usually use so I only knitted it as a cap style.

Head Hugging Beanie

2010-10-07T03:18:00.000-07:00

This dark green beanie is knitted using hand spun/dyed merino wool.
I knitted it on circular needles. First 4 rows plain then 4 rows purl and continued in this way but decreased stitches towards the end. This beanie will stretch to take a full head of hair or just sit snug on the head.

It is one of my favorite designs.

Front and back view.

My Dreddy Beanies 2

2010-10-07T03:05:00.000-07:00

More dreddy beanies using merino hand spun/dyed yarn.
refer earlier post for information .
They suit male or female persons and each beanie is a one off.

Front and back view of the beanie

My Dreddy Beanies

2010-10-07T02:47:00.000-07:00

You may laugh at these creations but they do look good on. Using hand spun/ dyed merino wool I knit in random rows using different colours. I am lazy and leave the ends poking out instead of weaving in the ends.

I have shown the front view and back view of each beanie.

Glasses Gases With Embellishments

2010-10-07T02:35:00.000-07:00

I had a request for a large size glasses case so I made these.

I used as a base pre dyed merino fleece and added after pre- felting embellishments of mohair, silk waste, glitter, angelina and some short pieces of spun yarn. I found a large button for each in matching colour.

Beanie For Jess

2010-09-28T03:26:00.000-07:00

I hope you like your new hand spun, dyed and knitted beanie. JESS.
made especially for you with the spun wool we dyed on Wednesday.

Alpaca Drying/Carded

2010-09-28T03:11:00.000-07:00

I had this huge bag of Alpaca fleece, so with Marlenes help we took it out to my back yard and had the tediuos task of sorting the spinable from the definately unspinable. The "spinable" was then put into hot soapy water to soak for a few hours, then rinsed. Next day it was sunny so made a platform off the grass with a broken clothers dryer and
a couple of storage boxes. Laid a large remnant of curtain material under and over it to keep it together in case a gust of wind blew it all over the place and birds thinking what a "lovely fluffy nest this will make".

Using a Wild Carder I started to card this beautiful fleece. I have already carded about 200 grams and I still have this huge bag ready to process.

refer earlier Post: Just Shawn Alpaca

Mileage- 100000km

2010-09-24T01:13:00.000-07:00

I finally reached the 100,000 km so had to take a photo. 24 Sep 2010
My car is a Toyoto Seca (1993) which my Dad bought brand new and passed on to me in his later years when he was not confident in driving. I hope it will carry me for the next 100,000.

Just Shawn Alpaca

2010-09-24T01:04:00.000-07:00

Friday morning Marlene and I took a trip in search of this farm at West Corindi.
Ann rang to tell us she had some Alpaca fleece we may like. We couldnt pass an opportunity like this. After a warm welcome and cup of coffee Ann bought the Alpaca up for us to have a closer look at them. Having been just shawn they looked a little funny but those big eyes and eye lashers they are just beautiful, but known to spit which a couple did.
We came home with bags of fleece but it all needs to be sorted to get the best lengths for spinning.
The farm is surrounded by blue berry bushes, macadamia nut tree
and avocado trees.

Miss Toupea - chook

2010-09-01T01:36:00.000-07:00

In my backyard I have this old metal garbage bin which Miss Toupea thought it was the best place, warm and soft to lay her egg. She is friendly and very vocal chook and so far a good layer of medium size brown egg.

If you double click and get a very detail picture You will see why she is named Toupea.

My neice said she is wearing a toupea, so the name stuck.

Rhode Island Reds X New Hamshire Poultry

2010-09-01T01:20:00.000-07:00

I went to my local Ag Store and came out with a bag of mixed grain and 7 little day old Rhode Island Reds X New Hamshire Chicks.
I did have two clucky chooks so 3 went under Scruffy and 4 went under Twin No 1. I had to do it when it was dark and they are a little dazed.
I had prepared the nursery into 3 sections. I have already four little Silky X chicks with their mother Twin No 2. they are about 10 days old and still smaller than the day olds. Very active and eating and picking and scratching as their Mum has taught them.

The nursery is only put together with wire, tomato stakes and covered with tarp but I have managed to make it as warm and waterproof as possible. Jilly my little Foxi is very interested. I do have to keep her in my sights as not quite sure what she would do with the chicks.

This hobby of mine is a little break from my hand spinning and hand dyeing but I will get back to it later.

Daisy and Maisey 13 wks

2010-08-27T00:46:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Daisy and Maisey are about 13 wks old. They are so cute with their fluffy tops they look like a Miss Pompadour.

Maybe I can add a few feathers in my designer wool???

Chicks born 21st Aug 2010

2010-08-27T00:24:00.000-07:00

About 3 days old let me introduce you to Miss Lulu who was looked after by mum Fluffy who didnt watch over her and she slipped under the wire due to my not so perfect cage making. I found her in the morning cold and cherping loudly for her Mum. I took her and had to keep her warm for the day and try and teach her to eat and drink. By the end of the day she was cherrp cherrping very loudly and as night came and darkness I lifted the other Mum (unnamed but a twin so look so much alike I cant tell them apart)and put Lulu under her. To my delight Lulu was one of the gang and althought a little slower than the three was watching and feeding and New Mum was looking after her.
Now a family of four chicks, Lulu, Fifi, Polly and Rosie are cared for by their sarragate Mum. She is very vicious when you try and look under her. I have a very sore finger to prove it.

Keeping a watchful eye on her babies. Mum is a unknown breed but has a Bantam/Silky XX and the babies will be the same.

Metrosideros Fiji Fire and Tibouchina Jazzie

2010-08-08T23:57:00.000-07:00

Double click to see larger view.
I have a very unsightly back fence which was once hidden by a Ginger plant that was slowly overtaking the lawn with its fast growing rhizomes. It was removed and I planted cotton plants. The Pest attacked them so it was time for them to go and this time I have planted two well established Fiji Fire (Metrosideros) I had never heard of this plant before. The new growth are coloured pinkish very similar to lilly pillys. Has an orangey flower which I am eagerly waiting as photos don't show the flower. It is hardy, not too tall plant and with two planted side by side hopefully hide this fence.
The Tibouchina Jazzie is also new to me as I do have the Alstonville and Nola growing and are in flower most of the year. The Jazzie is a smaller bush and it has replaced a Camelia that I had on my front lawn.

My chooks are very interested in when I take shovel to dirt as there generally is a tasty worm or bug to find. Then after planting I have to place rocks and mesh to keep the chooks from digging/scratching up the plants.

Magpie Nesting

2010-07-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

I had just washed my special Koala Tea Cosy knitted by my Mother using Mohair, hung it on the line to dry. As I was standing over the sink in my kitchen I looked out and there was this Magpie pulling mohair with its beak for its nest. How smart is it. Many of my lady friends have reported similar visits from birds that peck wool drying from the clothes line.

Pixie Beanie with Boots

2010-07-14T23:51:00.000-07:00

Its Bellingen market this Sat 17th July 2010 and as I purchased a pair of extra special kangaroo boots from the stall next to us Wallaby Tracks I decided that if I am going to wear them I must have a beanie to match. I found some carded beige mohair in my stash and dyed it to match the contrast musty pink on the boots. Please No rude remarks if you see me, laughing is allowed.

If you too wish to have a pair of these Kangaroo boots check out their stall at Bellingen or http://www.wallabytracks.com.au/

July 2010 Felt Smart Hats

2010-07-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

Felt hats created for the person who prefers a hat with a very small brim or no brim at all

Felt Hats July 2010

2010-07-14T23:37:00.000-07:00

My latest creations of newly hand made felt hats using the wet felt method.Very colourful for this winter to show off to wear to a special function or just to keep you warm.

I am bringing these hats to Bellingen market July 17th. These are not massed produced every hat is created by hand even dyed so you get a indivual piece of art. Priced to suit most budgets.

Felt Hat Matching Scarf

2010-07-14T23:24:00.000-07:00

Its July 2010 and winter is in the air time to wear a smart felt hat and chunky hand spun knitted scarf. Top black hat is on the small size with a felted band with its ends made as a feature tied at the side in a knot leaving the ends to point upwards.
Below Dark Green (not shown colour up - sorry) felt hat for a person who likes a medium size. It has a curved upward brim and the band is green felted with embellishment with glitter showing thru. Very stylish but casual. The Scarf is green and rustic browns blended thru. Both scarfs have very long tastles to create extra length without weight.

Warm Beanies

2010-06-13T01:36:00.000-07:00

Warm Beanies for those cold nights, this time I went to my stash of colour wool tops and carded random colours and added white merino fleece to give it a clean fresh yarn. I used lots of white for top beanie and only picked up a few colours as I went along.
Earflap beanie I used a length of one colour then a length of another colour then a length of another colour and so on,but not exactly the same length.
I was hoping for a multi striped effect.

Cute Beanies for Bratz

2010-06-13T01:23:00.000-07:00

I have been asked for small beanies and beanies with earflaps so thats what I have been knitting up at night watching T.V. I just hope I have the right sizes and colours, but it is hard to please everybody. I get lots of comments about how cute they are. Its time now to rug up the kids and a beanie is the best thing.

The Bratz dolls bring lots of attention from the little folk and they make great models for the beanies.

Lady Godiva Scarf

2010-06-13T01:14:00.000-07:00

Just something different I went into my commercial stash box and found the yarns I like and using two strands at one time knitted the length sideways. I had too many stitches, but didnt find out before it was too long. Will suit a Lady Godiva who is brave enough to wear it.

Lots of yarn went into this scarf, lovely tones of soft browns, oranges and lemons.

Warm Scarfs

2010-06-13T01:04:00.000-07:00

Top Scarf using wool from Nundle Woollen Mills. I loved the colours of a hank of wool I spun up so knitted a length which was to be a scarf. Not knowing how much length I was going to get found it was not long enough so it was back to my spinning wheel to knit more yarn then the memory had to go back to the colours I used. I thought it safe just using two colours and used the royal blue and a green. I then used half my spun yarn on the front and picked up stitch on the back and knitted them the same length. I had spun up another two colours similar to my first section and used that for the fringing. I will take it to Bellingen Market and have it for sale but if no sale I will keep it and hopefully match the green boots I have ordered from WallabyTracks which I hope will be next to us 19th June.
Using Nundle Wool I spun up plenty this time for a scarf. Some how in my plying back I spun it back t he same way I spun it up and I thought I had made a huge mistake. It had so much stretch in it. I went ahead and dyed it Red and Blue.
I was interested to see how it knitted up and to my biggest surprise it knitted up great and using no 10mm needles gives it a lacey look. I dont know if I will do it again and it will work. But I love it and wore it today with my new red boots.

I took the photos outside on a beautiful autumns day and the sun must have caught the lens of the camera.

Alpaca & Merino Scarf/Beanie

2010-06-13T00:43:00.000-07:00

Using black alpaca and natural white merino micron 18, I carded together, then spun it up plied it back with white wool yarn and silver glitter yarn.
With the yarn I first calculated approx length and amount for fringe. Then I cast on 8 stitches and using No 20mm needles knitted
till I was happy with the length.
I still had left over yarn so I knitted a beret but had to add just black alpaca which I had in my stash. I will take it to Bellingen Market to see if I have a buyer if not I will keep it for myself as I do love the softness of it and you can wear black and white accessories with any outfit plus I have just bought a lovely black jacket.

Maisey & Daisey Chickens

2010-06-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

Maisey and Daisey arrived Friday 29th May 2010 by surrogate Mother (one of the twins) I made a separate Maternity ward for Mum and the chicks away from the other hens. They are just so small probably being of bantam breed and goodness knows who the father rooster is?.
The twin is such a good mother and protects and tells her babies that food is available.

Maisey is pale in colour with dark markings splashed about her body while Daisey is dark with white markings. They have a little Silkie breed x bantam breed.

My New Kitchen

2010-05-05T04:59:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken on the 5th May 2010 of my new kitchen at the point of almost completion. Little adjustments and shelves still to go in then I have the lovely task of filling those cupboards then remembering where I put them. Finding out they arent in the right place and move again. It is lovely white and shiny. i only hope I can keep it that way. I have new appliances so fun to use at start. A dishwasher which I have never had. Wonderful
Many many Thanks for the workers. I was just tea lady.

Scarf for Scarf Exchange 2010

2010-04-26T23:09:00.000-07:00

View previous post for preparation before I knitted this scarf.
It is a very simple pattern, No 15mm needles and 11 stitches. Garter Stitch till the desired length. Then I added lots of individual tassles.
I call it my Octopus scarf.
Just for fun I made a felted flower and added a band which can be tidied at the back leaving the flower at a position you would normally wear a broach.

Scarf is hanging on my trusty BABE spinning Wheel.

Scarf Exchange 2010

2010-04-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

This year the Scarf Exchange is being organised by the Geelong Handweavers & Spinners Guild Inc.
I received my parcel of lovely merino white top 150 gms.
The theme is
From the River to the Sea.
I dyed using Landscape dyes in the microwave, Royal B lue (sea) Kingfisher (river) Yellow (sand) White (clouds).
On my Wild Carder I carden the fleece mixing the colours. I then spun it on
my BABE Spinning Wheel and plied it back with Dark Blue, Yellow wool yarn and light blue glitter yarn. Adding randomly angelina (glitter) and mohair.

Above the finished designer yarn.

Making of Designer Yarn

2010-04-22T02:08:00.000-07:00

It was about time I got out my new Ashford Wild Carder and created some designer yarn. So with my coloured merino fleece, and black alpaca I went ahead and carded mixing the colours using the best I thought without getting "that muddy look" . I then went to my stash and found some angelina, ( short glitter fibres) and a cone of green glitter and some flourescent yellow wool.
Then to ply back with I used the green glitter yarn and yellow wool and every now and then took some angelina and added it in. The black alpaca gave it the WOW factor as well as the angelina.

Double click for a close up view

Beanies for Toddlers

2010-04-19T20:57:00.000-07:00

After attending Bellingen Market April, I was surprised by the amount of request for babies and toddler beanies. I did sell a few but I did not have the "just born" premature baby size. So into my yarn box and out came the knitting needles.
I enjoy knitting in front of the telly at night and as it is raining outside I should get a few more finished to take to Bellingen Market May 2010.

I love my models.

Rainbow Plait Beanie

2010-04-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

I just love the colours of this beanie using pink yellow and blue dyes side by side give extra colour of purple mauve and shades of green. My dyeing process gives it a lovely slanting design when knitted. With a blue shiny hair piece I plaited it and attached it at the end of the knitted beanie.

Novelty Beanies

2010-04-11T00:16:00.000-07:00

For the person who wants to have a black curly pony tail and just doesnt have the hair so I found this curly imitation hair piece and attached it to the end of a snug black and grey hand spun knitted beanie. I think I may wear it to amuse my friends seeing I have short blond hair.
After dyeing some hand spun wool purple and red I decided to knit it in one of my favorite styles the pigtail. The band can be worn either down or up guess depends on your head/face size.

I will be taking them to Bellingen market this Sat, 11th April, see you there.

Earflap Beanies Black Combos

2010-04-09T19:52:00.000-07:00

As the fashions is noticable black with grey/ white/ red in the "HOT Shops" I decided that I would try a different dye pattern and it worked giving an almost sock dye result when I knitted up these earflap beanies. Again I used 16 micron merino fleece and they are so soft.
I spun using my electric for a change maybe getting lazy.

Black with grey, Black with orange/tan, Black with red, Black with green.

See them April Bellingen market.

Slouch Beanies (4)

2010-04-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Great Slouch Beanies for Unisex wearers with long hair or dredlocks.
See previous post for more slouch beanies that I am taking to Soul Weaving, shop at Bellingen.

Slouch Beanies (3)

2010-03-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

More souch beanies hand knitted. See previous posts

Slouch Beanies (2)

2010-03-26T18:57:00.000-07:00

More slouch beanies going to Soul Weaving Belligen NSW. Lovely shop with wool tops. yarn, things for children, toys, clothing, beading, the list goes on.
Look at previous post for more slouch beanies.

Slouch Beanies (1)

2010-03-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Slouch beanies great for persons female/male who have lots of hair including dredlocks and want to wear a beanie. These are hand knitted using a mixture of yarns with a blend of wool, mohair, arcylic etc. These do not have to handled so gentle as my pure wool hand spun beanies.
These beanies are on their way to Bellingen. A shop called Soul Weaving will have them on display to sell.
In preparation for those cold mornings nothing better to keep our ears warm is a beanie.

Dredlock Beanie

2010-03-16T00:26:00.000-07:00

These look so good on and so colourful. You get the effect of Dredlocks without having actually dreadlocks which can be painfull to have done.
I have sold a few that I took previously to Bellingen market so decided to make a few more.

You can view earlier Scrap beanies on 11th Nov 09

Scrunchy Beanies.

2010-03-16T00:15:00.000-07:00

Know why I can them scrunchy beanies, cos you can roll them up and scrunch together and they will just come back to their original shape.
It is raining outside and I am babysitting my sisters dog and cat plus my own dog, so its time to go and explore what I have in scrap/leftover handspun yarn, try and co-ordinated some colour scheme and thickeness of yarn.

Black/Red Scarf &Beanie

2010-03-07T21:53:00.000-08:00

My sister has a red coat and in preparation for winter which is some months off yet decided to see what I had in my commercial yarn stash. She loves black, thats where I started and before long I had a good collection. I used No 10mm needles and cast on 210 stitches I then knitted each row(garter stitch) using two rows of each yarn at random. I left extra yarn at each end for fringing. Having some yarn over I used it for a beanie.
As I have many balls of different commercial yarns in my stash I am thinking I am attempting another or more.

I Love My Spinning Wheel T-Shirt

2010-03-03T17:08:00.000-08:00

I Love My Spinning Wheel T-Shirt I have just printed a few. The Spinning Wheel is a Symphony double treadle Saxony Wheel. I do not own one but I'm sure there are many happy spinners using one. I have a (1)Ashford Traditional. (2)A Babe with a woolly winder double treadle,(3) a Louet single treadle, (4) one that is old and spins a lovely fine thread but I have tried to get a name for this one but not as yet and my(5) electric Spinner which I also added a woolly winder to.

T-Shirt Blue -Earflap Design

2010-02-21T19:35:00.000-08:00

This T-Shirt I have taken a photo of a previous Earflap Beanie which I have handspun/dyed and knitted and used it to show off on a blue t-shirt.
At present this isnt for sale unless I get a few interested Sale enquiries.
Back of T-Shirt : Hand Spun & Hand Dyed & Knitted Beanie.
kayewynn&hotmail.com

T-Shirt for Bellingen Market

2010-02-21T19:22:00.000-08:00

I have just had a few T-Shirts printed to advertise our stall at Belling Market.
written on front " Kerry & Kaye's stall at Belligen market 3rd Sat/Mth.
then I have a print of my favorite sheep stamp with the words below
Wool Tops all Colours, Hand Spun and Dyed yarn, Beanies, Felt hats and Much More to See. with our email addresses. kerryheinzel@hotmail.com
kayewynn@hotmail.com

I only have 3 x size 14 ladies for Sale, so please email for details, I will get more done if I have a good response.

Yellow, Blue, Red, Berettes.

2010-02-17T23:19:00.000-08:00

How bright these colours are for winter to brighten up your day.
Handspun wool and dyed just the one overall colour a little different to my multi range. My pattern altered for each berette so I get a different shape.

Milly & Jilly Cruising.

2010-02-04T23:45:00.000-08:00

I coudn't resist taking this photo of Milly (black and white sheep dog) and my Jilly ( white and beige patchy fox terrier) sitting in the car whilst work was being done inside my house with the nail gun.

Kitchen Renovations.

2010-02-04T23:37:00.000-08:00

I have waited patiently for my kitchen to be renovated and finally it has started.
My house would have been built around the 1980 or before.
The brown archway, cupboards , pantry, sink pulled out, flooring ripped up and tiles taken off.
Not being a DIY in the building department, I volunteered to make the Cuppas and pour cold drinks as it is very hot inside.
I have family that are doing the work so as they get time off a few more hours is spent on it. Meals is a little awkward in preparation. Jug in bathroom, dishes to be washed in the laundry, but as long as my knitting chair is available and spinning wheel nearby I am happy.

Earflap Beanie Multi Colours Feb 2010

2010-02-04T23:18:00.000-08:00

Warm, colourful & fashionable these Earflap beanies a must for winter this year and next. Lhs/ Blue, red, orange and green multi mix. Rhs/Green, black, orange & yellow mix. I handspun 16 micron merino which is so soft and dyed it to these lovely colours.

Lhs/Black and galah pink I chose with a touch of white, Rhs/ Autumn tones of brown, green and suntan yellow with a touch of white. I handspun wool that I purchased from Nundle Woollen Mills and dyed them as described.

Earflap Beanies Multi Colours

2010-01-25T22:59:00.000-08:00

This Earflap Beanie is coloured soft pink and taupe green with white.

This Earflap Beanie is coloured plum, sapphire blue, mauve and white.

After I have spun up the white 16 micron merino fleece I dyed the yarn and now just knitted.

Getting ready for winter collection 2010.

Hand Spun and Dyed Yarn Jan 2010

2010-01-24T03:46:00.000-08:00

I am in the mood to start my 2010 collection using 16 micron fleece.
I hand spun on my Babe Spinning Wheel. 6 Bobbins. I love dyeing and this time I left a little white showing instead of trying to completely colour all sections. I used mostly only two main colours as previously I have used three or more. Due to the lovely warm weather I hung them on the line and now dry and ready for me to create with my Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles.