Saturday, November 3, 2007

Let's get organized!!! Marimekko-inspired Felted Needle Case









My needles use to be all over the place. Now they have a lovely home. Those handy Lancome cosmetic cases will now be used for something else. Instructions for this Marimekko-inspired Felted Needle Case is included in Hip Graphic Knits by Rochelle Bourgault and Lisa B. Evans. This is a nice little book if you are looking of simple color work patterns. I purchased it because it has some basic, youthful designs that are helpful for developing my intarsia and fair isles skills.

Using bobbins and carrying your work is a learned skill and time to execute these techniques must be factored in. It took me about a week to complete. Since this was my first felted knit project I opted to used reasonably price Lion Brand Wool in Rose and Pumpkin that I purchase from Michaels. This yarn is perfect for felting. It works up well and felts smoothly. I only had to run it through one 15 minute cycle. When the felting process was complete, I measured my piece and left it to dry overnight.

Overall I am please with the results. Deciding on the number of compartments was probably the most difficult task. Once I decided on the interior configuration, stitching the needle pockets was a breeze. This is also my first project on my new sewing machine. I have been without an operating sewing machine for several years and was concerned that I could still sew a straight seam. No problem! I am back in there...!

My case is finished with a sheer coordinating ribbon that I found at Hancock Fabrics. I am not sure how long the ribbon will hold up. Its okay for now but I anticipate that I will have to create an I-cord with the leftover yarn.