I'm A Little Late To The Fiber Arts Party This Week

Well, it's the first week of 2013's Fiber Arts Friday and where am I? A little late, but I'm here - really!

The first thing on the Fee-Fi(ber)-F.O. Friday front is my completed Snow-tipped Poinsetta shawl, which I gifted to a family member during the holidays:



My version of Drop's snazzily named 0-859 Shawl for Christmas. 

The original design was created in only one color. I used two different yarns in my version's edging, adding an additional row in a peachy color to break up all that lovely red, and then added beads along the final edging row that look a lot like icicle drops along the edge of a poinsetta flower:

I love using beads, but not in a gratuitous manner. I think they add a lot of pizazz to this shawl, even if I say so myself.

Though the original was done in a cotton viscose, for my version I used not quite a complete skein of Drops Lace for the body of the shawl. It blocked beautifully, and the lace adds a delicate touch. I would recommend this pattern - it's easy, works up quickly, and would look wonderful in a variety of yarn types and weights.

I had also hoped I would be able to show you my completed Skappel sweater, but alas, it has hit the frog pond and sunk to a very icy depth, never to be recovered. I came to the conclusion, after getting the first sleeve done, that 80s dropped shoulders and oversized proportions just weren't going to cut it. Et voila, it did a disappearing act. I am thrilled that I got to practice my three needle bind-off technique (of which I'm rather pleased). Otherwise, that was a boondoggle I hope not to repeat in the new year.

And finally, Melisa from Toad in a Boat has won my give-away copy of Quick & Simple Crochet Scarves - congratulations, Melisa! It will be winging its way to you shortly.

While I'm certain everyone else has checked in, if by some chance you didn't, definitely head on over to the WonderWhyGal's Wisdom Begins in Wonder blog and check out all the other on-time fiberista activity.

It just might be a very busy year, if beginnings are any indication.