Thursday, February 22, 2007

Fiber Friday - Clapotis Begins

Okay, that I admit that the title seems a little over dramatic, but it's what I came up with. So, I went with it. Clapotis is such a simple pattern and the result is such a versatile piece, how could I resist giving it a try. I think mine will end more of a large scarf than a shawl.

The yarn I'm using is Lady Godiva by Hand Maiden. It is a beautiful hand painted color called Paris. The yarn is 50% wool 50% silk. Each skein is 100 grams and about 281 yards.

I love the silky feel this yarn has during knitting. I think it will work well for this project. It seems like it will drape very well. The colors are great too. There are shades of browns and green/blue turquoise, pinks, and a hint of purple.

I wish it was going a little faster - but maybe i can get a lot done over the weekend. I'm trying to make sure I knit at least one repeat a night. I want to thank Jackie for giving me a the idea to purl the stitches that are going to be dropped instead of knitting. Then the stitch can be easily seen against the stockinette without a marker. That is a great idea!

Bezzie asked about my recent use of white backgrounds and I will share my secret. White poster board. I got three sheets for a dollar at the local Dollar Tree. I prop one up against a box and lay one flat. I've made kind of stage for my yarn. I also have a cardboard box that I covered with white paper that I can set on the stage to act as a pedestal. The white background seems to help the camera focus in on the subject. The white background and lights has also helped me get better color representation too.

I'm thinking I might actually set up a cheap light box; but so far, this other set-up is working. My husband and I have also been trying to think of fun photo shoots to try. If we end up with anything good; I'll post some photos.

15 comments:

Twisted Knitter said...

First of all, WONDERFUL yarn for the Clapotis! Can't wait to see the finished product.

Second -- thank you for sharing your photo-shoot info! I'm really loving your photos lately. The cool thing is that if I read through Bloglines, the photos are full-size there.

Zonda said...

That is just gorgeous!! I bet it is so soft to use! I had always heard of purling a stitch somewhere in the clapotis but thanks for explaining it better as I am taking my mini one with me.

I just started using the posterboard too, but sometimes the white background and a light colored yarn just gets really whited out, so I use my floor. Maybe I'm just too close or something.

Jacque said...

Thanks for the photo tip. I have been wondering about your beautiful pics. Your Clapotis is going to be gorgeous in that yarn, and Paris...how appropriate.

Jessica said...

I absolutely LOVE the colorway you chose. I was going to ask you what it was but decided to wait until you posted more about the Clapotis. Waiting has paid off. Paris. I love it. I think I might have to copy you for my mini clap! ;)

Knit Masala said...

That yarn is gorgeous and is going to make a beautiful Clap! Knit Mongrel and I were planning on a little Clap KAL, and she's started hers, and I really think I may have to go ahead and cast on for mine. I don't want to miss out on the fun!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful yarn! I'm sure your Clapotis will just be gorgeous when it's finished.

Anonymous said...

Wonderful colors in the Paris yarn. It will go with everything.

Lazuli said...

What beautiful yarn for a clap! It's looking gorgeous so far! You get very nice results with just a posterboard. What a great idea! How do you avoid getting strong shadows from the flash, though?

KniTdds said...

I'm for that. . .gorgeous, fabulous, handpainted yarn for your clapotis!!

Best of luck. . .and great idea on purling those stitches. . you can really see them

turtlegirl76 said...

That yarn is gorgeous! It's going to make a wonderful Clapotis.

I've been doing the White Light Box lately too. It is so much easier to get good color representation. Plus, with my busy schedule lately, I don't have to worry about hustling home in time for the evening light. I use Microsoft Office Picture Manager and can just edit the color by using the white balance. Turns out great! But your method of propping sounds like it's much easier to store. My giant white box is living on top of the dryer right now. It's a PITA to move around to get to the knobs.

Bezzie said...

Mmm...that yarn is beautiful!!!! I love the way it shows up in such detail in bloglines!

And thanks for the tip on the yarn pics. I'll have to try that.

KaKi said...

Fabulous yarn for the Clap! Love the tip about purling!! Fabulous idea about the photo shoot! Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

Jo said...

Wow - this yarn is so beautiful! I can't wait to see the finished clapotis.

Dame Wendy said...

Thanks! Your clapotis is going to be gorgeous! I love how creamy the colors are! I may have to look into getting some of that myself. :)

jackie said...

that's looking just lovely. and i am really glad the purling of the drop stitches is working out. i have been thinking about making another one of these (i LOVE my first one), and you may just inspire me to get started. that yarn is beautiful for this project!