Monday, July 16, 2012

I ❤ Tikki Knits giveaway.

 School cardigan.

Eden's Eve.

My knitting story began about two years ago on a Thursday while cruising the My Creative Space blogs. There were all the usual crochet, screen printing, jewelry making, quilting, softie and sewing projects. And then I came across a blog with a post about this divine pink knitted cardigan.

I remember sitting and staring and that cardi for ages. I loved it. I wanted a cardi like that for one of my girls. But I was a crocheter and didn't know how to knit. So I left my adoring comment and clicked onto the next blog.

But I couldn't get that pink cardi out of my mind.

Darwinia.

 Olearia.

Olearia.

So later on that day, or maybe it was the next, I found my way back to Georgie's blog and spent ages trawling through her archives. Gazing at all her divine knitting patterns and imagining my girls wearing them.

And I decided then and there that I was going to learn how to knit.

And with the help of Georgie's beautifully written patterns and those wonderfully patient youtube women, that's exactly what I did.

 Eden's Eve.

Milo.

Fast forward two years and according to my Ravelry project page, to date I have knitted 15 of Georgie's designs.

Over the past year and a bit I've been lucky enough to work as a pattern tester with Georgie which has been an amazing experience. I've learnt so much and been super inspired while watching her tweek her work, deal with the feedback and create these super cute kntting patterns.

Georgie's brand Tikki Knits is filled with wonderful patterns to knit. From the most basic scarf, to the more complicated cardigan. Her patterns are so easy to follow with loads of pictures and explanations and interesting details. There are Tikki patterns for boys and for girls and for dolls and for babies and for women. There are vests and hats and scarves and legwarmers and jumpers and cardis and skirts.

In her own words...My patterns are seamless, deceptively simple and surprisingly quick to knit.


I am such a huge fan.

 Suzanne.

Darwinia.

Milo.

So, because we are in the depths of winter here, and because knitting and rugging up in handkints are the only things that make any sense right now, I though we'd have ourselves a bit of a knitting pattern giveaway.

The gorgeous and super talented Georgie from Tikki Knits has kindly offered five patterns from her shop to one lucky reader. FIVE PATTERNS!!!!!!

The patterns will be sent to the winner in the mail or online, whatever the winner decides.

This giveaway is open for one week. I'll announce the winner on July 23rd.

All you have to do to enter is tell me somethinga about knitting.
Anything about knitting...

Your Knitting story, or your favourite wool to knit with, or a pattern you love, or which of the Tikki patterns you would choose if you win....

And if you can't think of anything to do with knitting, just say hi, or tell me what you plan to make for dinner tonight, or a great movie you have seen lately...anything.

Let the knitting games begin!!!

In the meantime check out:
The Tikki blog.
The Tikki pattern shop.
The Tikki (not quite finished) website.
Tikki on the Twitter
Tikki on facebook.

See ya later knitting potata.

xx

ps. You CAN knit, trust me.

208 comments:

  1. My nanna taught me to knit many many years ago, probably about 42 years ago, she also taught me to play ehcbre and bingo. Some years I drift away from knitting and do other things but I always return.

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  2. Funnily enough I've seen so many of those patterns and never realized they came from the one talented lady.
    I had been saying for years that I wanted to learn how to knit, but didn't think I knew anyone to teach me. Ended up purchasing a learn to knit kit with a scarf about two years ago now. Found out my mother in law was an expert "retired" knitter (who knew?!) who helped me master the basics. Also thanks to You tube. I'm no expert knitter, and still have so much more to learn, but when I think back I have come a long way.
    Thanks Kate :)

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  3. I learnt to knit when I was 7 years old from my grandma. I love it and for years I could be seen knitting in the winter (and sometimes summer) She was very fussy about how I needed to hold the yarn and I remember crying when I finally got it just right.

    The problem was that I was very happy just doing the basics. The adults would always cast on and off and I rarely purled at all. 3 years ago I made myself learn how to cast on (both ways) and bind off. SO despite having knitted for a good 15 years I am still a novice.

    However, I have set myself the goal that next winter I will make myself a cardigan (perhaps even from a proper pattern if I have figured out how to read them by then) :-)

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  4. Don't count me in as you are preaching to the converted and I probably have most of them :) Tikki's patterns are gorgeous.

    I think that you and I have shared our knitting journeys somewhat. Crocheters who became knitters and have learnt so much in the past 2 years and now can't imagine life without it. I remember about 3 years ago thinking "I am glad that I crochet. I just don't get knitting"

    I kinda get it now.

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  5. I learnt to knit when I was very young, but I've only just now learnt that there is more than one way to cast on and off! I quizzed my mother as to her failings in teaching me, and she said "it was hard enough to teach you that one!"

    Hmph.

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  6. im teaching myself to knit at the moment! i haven't done much else then swatches.. but I WILL be able to knit soon! im hoping to be confident enough to make a little vest like the zigvest!

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  7. I am a crocheter and I had no desire to learn to knit. I wanted to stay loyal to crochet because sometimes it feels as if crochet doesn't get the respect it deserves.

    But then I started visiting Ravelry more and seeing the knitted sock patterns and I was sucked in...Sure I could crochet socks, but they are much thicker and heavier. So last summer I took the plunge.

    I have now made three pairs of socks (only 2 are wearable) I have three others on the needles...I've made 2 hats..and I have 2 scarves on the needles...but I still make more things through crochet....especially amigurami..which I love...

    Which patterns would I choose? Well my niece has asked for some doll clothes, so maybe a few of those..I'd let her choose her favorites...I also love the beret Lavender and definitely a Milo...

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  8. Hmm, tell you something about knitting...
    I learnt how to knit before I learnt how to crochet and then after that I was taught how to spin...... I had a busy time when I wasn't in primary school!!! :)

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  9. Hi Kate
    I am like you were,,,,,a crochet girl!
    I have to admit that 2 years ago I couldn't crochet either. My knitting was pretty basic, I couldn't read patterns etc. Since learning to crochet, well that has taken over but I keep dreaming of being able to knit properly. I have looked at your girls wearing your knitted projects alot and I want to be able to do that too. I want confidence in my knitting instead of only being confident enough to knit a scarf (and even then I have to unpick and start over more than once lol). This year I would like to increase my confidence with my knitting. I am creating a wool stash and I must use it before my hubby goes crazy. Don't get me wrong I love my crochet but I want to be able and confident in both of these "wool arts" lol. I would adore these patterns. I promise I would break out the knitting needles and at least attempt to produce something that resembles these gorgeous items!!!

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  10. Hi Kate,

    Your website has inspired me to pick up the needles and try knitting again for my little girl. My Gran taught me to knit now that she is gone I only wished I had spent more time learning by her side. Knitting helps me remeber all the special times together.

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  11. Imagine my surprise at already owning one of these patterns!
    My mother taught me to knit when I was much too young..
    It was so difficult for me I couldn't imagine choosing to do it again. But I do and I love it, except I'm awful at logging my creations on ravelry...
    ox

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  12. I'd LOVE to be able to knit my daughter cardigan (and perhaps even one for me). I'm a huge fan of cardigans - but you just can't buy them. I've tried to knit a few times but I just havn't had the patience. I'm thinking I should give it another go as i've learnt how to slow donwn since then.

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  13. Hello Kate - how lovely to have such a rich knitting history in two short years. As for my knitting story...I used to knit little things for little toys when I was younger, then the teen years took over and I stopped knitting - leaving a few unfinished garments for my mother to complete on my behalf. Then I found myself buying wool again in my early twenties to make a jumper for my soon to be husband. I finished the jumper for him ten years later - I was motivated to finish by a great remorse as I had accidentally thrown his latest handknit (made by my mother) into the op-shop bag. Now I am knitting again (including another jumper for my husband in the same colour as the one I gave to the op-shop)...and I'm loving the look of these delightful girly patterns. Hmmm - I think I might go and do a few rows right now :). Kirrily xox

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  14. i've had a friend make 3 milos for my boys so far. i ADORE them.
    such gorgeous patterns...wished i could knit....

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  15. Ohh!!! Pick me! Pick me!!! I am a huge Tikki fan (have 3 of her patterns and you are right - they are beautifully written and easy to follow!) I have just finished spinning enough "happy" wool in yellows, reds and purples to start Maddie's own Eden's Eve. Georgie is a genius.

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  16. My Mum taught me how to knit when I was a child, and how to crochet a chain. When I discovered the amazing world of crafty blogs about 18months ago I picked up some knitting needles and made my daughter a scarf. Then I wanted to learn how to crochet a flower, Mum taught me how to hold the hook and yarn and make a circle and youtube provided the rest.

    I have adored the cardi's you've made your girls Kate and this winter was inspired to make my daughter a cardi for school. All the patterns I loved were knitting patterns. I am scared off by circular needles and so far I only know how to 'knit' my one attempt so far at 'purl' was frustratingly bad!

    I am working on a crochet cardi for my daughter but I don't love the pattern like I love the Tikki patterns.

    Can I really do it? I would so love to give it another try :)

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  17. I learned to knit when I was about 7 and lost interest as I just didn't 'get' it. while I was a starved, cold Uni student I took it up again, teaching myself the basics and my mum teaching me the rest during holiday breaks. I never really progressed from anything but a scarf or a beanie until I became a Mum for the 2nd time though and now I absolutely love it. If I were to be so fortunate to win I'd definitely be choosing the Ziggy pattern in amongst the bundle ~ it would look adorable on all 3 of my boys! :o)

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  18. I love this! Milo is my favourite pattern and I'd love to try some more Tikki patterns. I love to knit on circular needles and with 8ply wool - so Tikki patterns are perfect! If I won...oooooh I'd choose, Sorello, Oleria, Cassia, Jane AND Suzanne! So lovely :)

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  19. I didn't knit for years when I started again last year! Knitting, crochet, it's bringing me so much joy and I love to make new things and just adore picking and working with all the wonderful colours. And love reading about it, too!

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  20. Apparently I knit in a very weird way. I haven't knitted much. I learnt when I was 7 from my nana and then later on knitted from memory and didn't relise over 20 years later I wrap the wool around the needle the wrong way. so I would love to know how to knit properly and be fast at it. My fingernails get really itchy when I knit also!

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  21. I didn't knit for years when I started again last year! Knitting, crochet, it's bringing me so much joy and I love to make new things and just adore picking and working with all the wonderful colours. And love reading about it, too!

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  22. I didn't knit for years when I started again last year! Knitting, crochet, it's bringing me so much joy and I love to make new things and just adore picking and working with all the wonderful colours. And love reading about it, too!

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  23. I didn't knit for years when I started again last year! Knitting, crochet, it's bringing me so much joy and I love to make new things and just adore picking and working with all the wonderful colours. And love reading about it, too!

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  24. Knitting is my sanity. There is no such thing as 'too hot for knitting'. I always have at least one project on the needles, probably two. The knitting has slowed down since I had Auden almost 16 months ago, and I found I've knit him barely any of the precious baby clothes I thought I would. Soakers, yes; plain cardies, yes; sweet little owl-cabled pullovers, alas no. Even his Milo vest (nubbed and pilled with constant wear since April) is plain stockinette with no cabling. But still, I find myself doing a row here and a row there, because my knitting keeps me going. Right now I'm making a cardie for my best friend's delicious new baby, my godson, and hoping I finish it before he outgrows it - at eight weeks he's the size of my son at six months!

    I've been amazed at your development as a knitter, Kate - almost straight away you took on tricky-looking patterns that I would have been too scared to try for the first five years that I knit. You're really inspiring, and it helped make me feel braver about starting sewing, which I've wanted to do all my life but was too scared to try. I'm pretty wonky, but I'm learning that that's okay.

    Thank you Georgie and Kate for the fabulous giveaway.

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  25. I was taught the knitting basics by my Grandmother. I could knit a scarf, but always had to ask Mum to cast on and off. In the last few months I've been trading knitting lessons with a girlfriend whom I'm teaching to sew. It's been great fun and we are often texting each other late at night with our progress.
    What I love most about knitting is that you have to sit still and enjoy the quiet.

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  26. Ohhh you're getting me excited! Can I really knit? Really?! The knits in those pics on your gorgeous kidlets are so divine... my little ones are 4 and 2, do you think I can learn to knit before they've left home? I think I shall give it go... it can't hurt, can it?! I am going to check out more of those patterns. Thanks again for inspiring me. xx

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  27. Ohhh you're getting me excited! Can I really knit? Really?! The knits in those pics on your gorgeous kidlets are so divine... my little ones are 4 and 2, do you think I can learn to knit before they've left home? I think I shall give it go... it can't hurt, can it?! I am going to check out more of those patterns. Thanks again for inspiring me. xx

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  28. I've just finished a scarf which is the first thing I have knitted since uni (and believe me that is a lot of decades ago.)
    I'm busting to follow on with something simple but didn't know what ... and "bingo" you pop out this blog post.
    I'm now off to find the next project.
    Thanks Kate - Your timing is perfect.

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  29. I knit my first cardigan for myself at age 16...was up ALL night the night before a wedding as I really wanted to finish it and wear it the next day...and I did. I have done a few knitting all nighters since then. The most recent was earlier this year when my son needed another pair of woolen socks to take to school camp. My kids socks never get caught up in the lost property as everyone in the school knows that I am the mad sock knitting mother!

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  30. Something I know about knitting is that is in internally linked in the hardwiring of our brain to stimulated the same little dendrites that light up when we do maths and play music..
    somethings I have learned about knitting - starting is easy...continuing can be hard, and unfortunately that babies grow (sometimes quite rapidly!)
    fingers crossed for me!
    S

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  31. Hi, the Milo was my first circular knitting project and my first cables project. I think I have fallen in love and it has given me the confidence to take on any project. I would love to try all of tikki's patterns. I just need to have a little girl!

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  32. Hi Kate
    Up until about 18 months ago I thought I couldn't knit, oh, I knew how to knit and purl, but my attention span was always so limited, and I was petrified of dropping a stitch, or doing it wrong and not knowing how to fix it. Knitting was always in the too hard basket. Then one day I bought a beautiful little hand knit jumper at a market, and suddenly I just had to know how to do that for myself. Thanks to youtube and a bit of trial and error, I very quickly got well and truly hooked! Now thinking about knitting takes up about 90% of my brain power, I just love it!

    This is a fantastic giveaway, I've already knit a Milo and Olearia. Tikki's patterns are just wonderful!

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  33. LOL I just wish I had a little girl that I could knit these beautiful patterns for!

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  34. I never realised how many of the cute cardigans and dresses I admired on Ravelry were from Tikki Knits! I'm a crocheter and know the basic knit stitches but never got further than that...so I've always admired the patterns and moved on. But maybe it's time to try knitting again...the Olearia is beginning to haunt me ;-)

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  35. I've knitted a cardigan for each of my 4 children to wear home from the hospital. With No. 2 we were told they were certain it was a girl and even said so on the scan report. So, as I already had a boy, I got into the pink and knitted a lovely vintage style pink cardi. When the baby was born he was certainly a boy! No cardi for him to wear home. The pink cardi was used 5 years later. He never actually got one. It's been a while since I knitted anything. Would love to pick it up again. Great giveaway. Thanks Cx

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  36. I was the same with crochet. All I could do was granny squares. It wasn't until 2 years ago when a few friends asked me to show them how to make granny squares that I decide to learn other styles of crochet.
    Knitting on the other hand is something I have been doing since I was 7 years old. I've also just started to learn how to spin my own yarn!

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  37. I can knit? I don't know.... I have been shown how at least 5 times and it has never stuck. I have also tried YouTube, which is how I learned to crochet, but with knitting it never sunk in. But, I know you are right.... I can knit cant I. I just need the right pattern I think. I'll check out tikki patterns and have a look around. I'd love love to make a milo or an edens eve. I don't want to knit another scarf... Or square....

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  38. I would never have guessed by your knitting that you are only 2 years old in knitting years. I am super inspired! Blogs like yours have given me the desire to knit again as it was only a 'thing' I did with my Granny so that we could do something together. Now I am so sad that she isn't with us, to see my deep passion for knitting and what I am knitting now. After being a beginner for so long, I am still most happy when I am knitting the 'deceptively simple'. Thanks for opportunity to win! And thanks for showing me The Tikki patterns. xxx Fi

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  39. I learnt to knit 2 years ago because I was determined to be able to knit soakers when I started a family. Now I'm pregnant I'm too tired to knit though! I am crossing my fingers for a girl so I can knit her an Olearia cardi.

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    1. Olearia is just the most gorgeous cardi pattern - I have just finished knitting three in a row for my girls. They love them because they are suitably girlie! Why not knit one, anyway?

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  40. Hooray for all the Grandmothers who taught us to knit! Grandma Ethel taught me!

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  41. I do so love handknits...my little man has always sported yummy knits, but they are all from the charity or op shops...i can sew, and do (with a vengeance!) but knitting? hmmm, folks always ask me to share my knitting projects on my blog, since the little guy wears handknits all the time. I SO very much want to knit...i even tried once, and my patient friend said ' you know anissa, you are good at many things and i guess knitting is just not going to be one of them'...perhaps i will try those patient women on you tube too. Sigh!

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  42. Thank you for this opportunity to win this great prize. I leant to knit the basics when I was eight and promptly forgot until last year when I took it up again, and haven't looked back since. I am now consumed with creating a knitted wardrobe for my little one before it's born, so it too can fall in love with knitting and garments made with love.

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  43. My mum knits beautifully, I knit well and my both my daughters have been taught by her...hopefully the skill is stored away for the day they want to make something for themselves.
    My husband still has the first jumper I made for him (fair isle for skiing!) from 25+ years ago. Both my babies wore their grandma's booties and beanies home and were covered in her exquisite white layette.
    I also have a wonderful colleague who has knitted me 3 pairs of socks with the magical Noro wool. Oh what a pleasure they are to wear at the moment.
    (please do not include me in the prize)

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  44. I love Tikki's patterns too. I decided to learn to knit when I was expecting my first baby. I wanted to be able to knit little clothes for my children. I started with a simple scarf in garter stitch and moved on from there. Each winter they have a few things knit by me in their cupboard, it feels good.

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  45. I'm not sure if you read my comment on your last blog post Kate but it was about this....kinda. I desperately want to knit butI get so scared at all the terminology. I learnt to crochet last year but so far it's only super basic stuff I've made. It's fun 7 it makes me feel clever even though compared to others I must look like a kindergarten kid! In the mean time until i build up the courage to try I'll adore your's, and others, work from afar, well from the internet, don't worry i'm not peaking through your windows ;)

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    1. Hey Reannon,
      I did read your comment and I've been thinking a lot about it too.
      I might have to dedicate an entire blog to it soon.
      I can't seem to be able to email you or find your blog though.
      x

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    2. Oh thanks Kate. I have no blog but my email is reannonhope@hotmail.com
      I'd love to read your thoughts on getting started, the best way to get your head around everything...how to make it not seem so daunting.
      xx

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  46. I learnt to knit as a child but stopped for a long time until I discovered Ravelry. I think if it wasn't for this wonderful online community, I would not have started knitting again!

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  47. Dear Kate,
    What can I say?
    I knit,because it's who I am.
    But I know you will understand that :)

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  48. Hi Kate ,

    k1 p1 k1 p1. slurp of wine k1 p1 k1 p1 another slurp of wine

    k1 p1 oops dropped a stitch k1 p1 Oops forgot to pick up stitch

    Big slurp of wine ... Mmm pull out knitting... Moral of story .... Please dont drink while knitting hehehe

    Love the cardys you have knitted.

    K1 p1 try to pick up dropped stitch..... Grrrr

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  49. I love Tikki's Milo (the only pattern of hers I've tried so far.) Sadly I have a severe lack of girls to knit for in my life, so I need boy patterns more often than not. Milo is awesome, especially as I am on a project to use up my mother's knitting stash of little odd balls of wool and bits and pieces. It's a super-stashbuster pattern! Especially love her seamless design, I'm a plain working knitter and don't do well at seaming and all the fancy bits. Although I DID teach myself to knit socks, and my cold feet will forever thank me!

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  50. You are an inspiration to those of us who can't *yet* knit! I have loved seeing your Eden's Eve creations so that would be on my wish list.
    Sherylee.

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  51. Good morning. I am lucky enough to be able to baby sit a wool shop that has just opened in our town. I love it, I pretend that I am the owner (just in my head you understand!) wander around storing and wishing I had the time to finish off the things I am part way through making before I start something else new.

    I keep looking at the milo vest and trying to see how I could make it into a grown up one for me.

    That is a wonderful give away. How are you getting on with covering the pipes?

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  52. I started knitting class two weeks ago, after 3 or 4 false-self taught starts. I've knitted a rather raggedy doll scarf in just 'knit' stitch (combining stitches was too much!) and next im making a face cloth. But i have high aspirations. One day i want to knit a nordic, yoked jersey. I have so many knit related happy memories from my childhood (the hooden aran cardigan with deep pockets that mysteriously always had a lolly in the pocket each day; the mohair 1st school jumper that all my new friends liked to stroke). I cant wait to see my kid in her first mum made knit (the darwinia maybe?) x

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  53. I started French knitting when I was tiny (maybe 5) with a cotton reel with four nails banged in the top. I loved it so much. I still love the process of knitting but I'm slow slow slow!!

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  54. Love to knit for my babes. Love colours, stripes and the feeling of wool between my fingers.
    These patterns lookes lovely. I've admired Milo many times :))

    Siv xx

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  55. I am a grandma who knits for my two grandsons, born four days apart, my toddler foster child and my 12 year old daughter. She has just decided she is too old for handknits. Sigh! I knitted baby stuff before my first child was born and then had two more and did not knit for years. I have knitted heaps for the grandsons in spite of needing to do two of everything. I prefer top down knitting and that is why I love Georgie's patterns. The Milo pattern I have is well used. Vests are great for little Melbourne boys and are finished sooner than jumpers. At daycare my toddler is known for his cute knitted hats and vests'.
    I hope I have a granddaughter one day and plan to own all of Georgie's patterns to knit all the lovely cardigans etc.
    I knit every day and get cranky when I miss out. I crochet occasionally.
    I love your blog and read every post. We had a wonderful day in Daylesford yesterday in spite of the cold. I thought of you and your family and your farm..
    Jeanette

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  56. We watched Into the Wild at the weekend. And as if the film isn't good enough on its own - its got an Eddie Vedder soundtrack. Just beautiful. We also watched the Sean Penn doco about making the film, while I knit a sleeve . . . Georgie makes beautiful patterns.

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  57. Tikki's patterns are fantastic (and she is too). My grandmother and mum taught me to knit when I was a child but it was through Georgie's patterns that I discovered seamless knitting. What a revelation!!

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  58. What a lovely post! I am a big admirer of knits (and your knits in particular Kate) but alas I am a crocheter too... I keep saying i'm going to learn but there are always too many other projects I have to finish. Anyway, I guess this is an anti-knit story... I love it and I admire it but maybe it's something I need to keep for later. Don't enter me in the comp - I'd feel awful if I won when it may be years before I get to learning how to knit ;) Good luck to everyone - such a wonderful giveaway Kate :) Kx

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  59. My knitting story began with my first baby, I made her a cardigan while I was pregnant, I had never knit before and it took me all of my pregnancy to knit it. I made her a couple more jumpers when she was little, one was a fair isle pattern and one a cable, but I was always scared of lacy patterns. Since then I have'nt knit anything much I even gave my knitting needles to a charity shop it's only recently that I discovered Ravelry and picked up the needles again, I made my grandson a batman hat, very basic with holes for the eyes. And tried socks, big fail when I got stuck on the heel, so that is on the will try again list. Now I am making the age of steam kercheif, it's challenging as it has a basic lacy pattern. But I am determined to learn to knit properly without fear!

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  60. Hi I was fortunate enough to be taught to knit by my mum when I was in primary school. I had not knitted for years until I had my own child. I now have a 3yr old boy who has a great collection of Beanies (my favourite things to knit)and he always gets lovely comments about them. The beauty of making your own things is that no one can buy one the same.

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  61. Ah! I think I have just reached the tipping point!! I have tried and tried and tried knitting over the years with lots of wonkiness and disappointment until a couple of years ago when I gave all my knitting needles to the salvos and gave up for good! I crochet like a nutter but lust over gorgeous knitting patterns such as the ones you create. But I have decided! I have had enough! I AM GOING TO LEARN! Thank you for the inspiration!

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  62. I have may of these patterns already added to my favorites on Ravelry but I haven't tried any yet. This is such a wonderful giveaway. I love knitting for my 2 1/2 year old boy and 1 year old girl. My son loves to watch me knit. I give him his own yarn and some thick not pointy needles and he pretends to knit too. It melts my heart. Our special time is when his sister is still napping and we sit in the sun room (my knitting room 3 seasons of the year). I'll knit and he'll watch and pretend. We can only do it when she is asleep or playing with my husband because she is too little to go in this room which has way too much stuff for her to get into.

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  63. Yep, I can knot! Oh I mean knit :-)
    I'm lovely learning something new and since you, the wise one, suggested trying a Milo it would make sense for me to win.
    Even if I don't become a prolific knitter, I aspire to a big bowl of scrummy Bendigo Mill cottons in a rainbow of colour.
    Ab xx

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  64. My knitting fail involves mittens. I'm a YouTube taught knittter, and started out like I do everything, knitting beyond my means. Anyhow, I was knitting mittens for a girlfriend as a big thank you for her support after I gave birth prematurely. I kept knitting one thumb inside out, I'd rip it out, start again.... still inside out arghhhhhh. I put the mittens down for ages in frustration. I had knitted a gazillion mittens before all with right side out thumbs. A quick search through ravelry revealed the answer, I was knitting upside down.... How on earth I managed to do that over and over again is beyond me. You'd think at some point I would've tried differently. Oh well, they're all knit now and my friend wears them often which makes me happy :)

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  65. My mother is a knitter, and all your readers comments about their mothers teaching them to knit has inspired me! I am going to get her to teach me. I also have three little girls and would love to see them wearing these beautiful designs. I'm sure anyone can knit, but as beautifully and creatively as you do - well, maybe...I hope so.

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  66. I started knitting in earnest a few years ago when I complained about how much I disliked winter. I was told to find something about winter that I really liked.Maybe a wood fire or knitting. So I went home and put in a slow combustion heater and started knitting. I had made 2 of my girls matching cardigans when they were pre schoolers but that's about it. But now hardly a day goes by that I don't knit and now Most of my knitting is for my 4 month old grandson. I can't imagine my life without knitting

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  67. I am also a Crocheter, who has big dreams of learning to knit....

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  68. all I can say is wow!!! I am a crocheter and usually give knitting a little go at least once a year (not with much success though) These patterns make me want to try harder, they look amazing.

    I want to be a knitter too now!

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  69. ooh, i love the suzanne and the school cardigan patterns. My mum taught me to knit when I was a wee brownie. It was fun looking at the tikki doll patterns. My kids aren't really into dolls, but I remember knitting dresses for my barbie dolls. :)

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  70. Winter and knitting just go hand in hand. I just wish I had more time to finish all those projects sitting on various needles.

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  71. I love knitting with wooden needles! Thanks for the giveaway.

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  72. I find knitting is SO slow. I still have a cardigan on needles I cast on about three years ago, so the idea of a pattern that knits up really fast is very appealing. I love the photos of your gorgeous girls wearing your knitted makes. Your daughters are beautiful.
    Thanks for sharing,
    Anne xx

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  73. I've been crocheting for 3 years now and have a very serious itch to start knitting. Winter does it every time!! I so want to learn how to knit socks and cardigans. My granny taught me how to knit and purl when I was a little one but I have never extended beyond scarfs. I have recently been online and started learning from some youtube vids ( they are such an awesome resource!!!). Well I started a pair of socks and lost the plot so they are on the road to being leg warmers. I'm loving them though!! Hope that one day I can knit as beautifully as you.
    Gerry ( instagram: auntygerrysnest)

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  75. I do love your blog - and I love knitting too!

    I love that I think about whoever I'm knitting for as I form every stitch. I cried when I dressed my baby boy in a little coat that I'd started knitting for him when I was pregnant. There is magic in knitting, in putting your love and thoughts for your child, your partner, your friend in every wrap of the wool around the needle.

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  76. I can not knit, but I love the idea of it. I have a set of massive big needles and sometimes a knit a scarf. Then when I feel the urge again, I just knit it again. I can't cast off, so I just pull it out!

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  77. What a great opportunity to win something as wonderful as this!

    I was taught to knit and sew by my mum, my grandmother taught me to crochet granny squares though as my mum didn't know how to crochet...I am just a stick to basic pattern type of girl :)

    Thank you Kate for sharing your knitting story and for giving us a chance to win some Tikki Knits patterns. I am off to check out her blog now :)

    x

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  78. Helo, Kate!
    I arrived here from "Bunny Mummy" and now I´m in love with your knitted cardigans! I just L.O.V.E to knit, but I just knit the basic: scarves or simple baby clothes (hats, vests and gloves). I do crochet most of the time. But my real passion are knitted cardigans: women and children´s: your "School cardigan" is the greatest, in my opinion, and I´d love to win its pattern!
    Best regards from Brazil!

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  79. My Nana taught me to knit, I love it......I have been teaching my son lately and he is loving it too!
    Jxx

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  80. This winter i made my very first milo vest. such a sense of achievement, even if it was full of holes and a slightly wonky cable. slowly slowly i'm learning the language. i still have a long way to go though!!

    rachel xo

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  81. There are some great bits of knitting trivia here - http://www.knitting-needle-notions.com/history.html

    I was surprised to learn that the first English knitting patterns date from the 1830's, given that knitting has been around for thousands of years.

    Also, it wasn't until the 1850's that knitting needles had knobs or stoppers on the ends. Can you imagine?!

    And the circular needle was first patented in the US in 1918.

    :)

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  82. Her patterns are fabulous!
    Something about knitting... I tend to knit more in the summer than in winter since I take my knitting outside with me and knit away as the kiddos play. I also don't think I've ever bought pink yarn since I love red and bright colours on a baby, and I don't wear pink.
    Thanks for the great giveaway!

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  83. I learned to knit just over a year ago and still have the horrible chunky blue acrylic scarf that looks more like an awkward sized blanket.

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  84. So until recently I've only ever knitted scarves, very plain scarves! BUT this winter I cast on the Milo vest, which I just love. I'm new to this knitting so taking it very slowly and (hopefully) getting it right! I have looked through quite a few of Georgies patterns and you are right, they are wonderful! She is one clever lady! I would love to win this giveaway to kick on my knitting adventures!
    Thanks for the giveaway.

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  85. These are incredible, and I LOVED hearing the story of your motivation.

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  86. I adore that little Milo! Needed to read your post script too. I am a learner, in an awful pickle with what should have been a simple basket weave baby blanket for my boy who is now nearly one. I have unravelled and unknitted and unravelled some more and made things even worse! But will persevere if it kills me (it might). I am in awe that you have made so MANY gorgeous knits in only two years! You have no idea how much hope this gives me.

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  87. I too am a late comer to knitting. I am a well accomplished crocheter, quite happy with how quickly something works up with a hook but very put off by the lack of interesting designs. So, when I had a baby and drooled over divine designs AND realised little tiny baby knits would be pretty quick to knit up, I turned to you tube, google, my local yarn shop and my long since departed, dear grandmothers needle stash and learnt to knit.
    Glee!!
    I am now a knitter!! First successful project was a pair of kanoko pants, knitted while rocking my restless baby in her hammock. That baby needed a lot of rocking so I learnt to rock with my foot and knit with my hands free :)
    I now have a wardrobe full of knits for my girls, a swag of presents for my friends with babes and am finally knitting something for me. Something big! I am loving it.
    I have also, proudly just reached another big milestone in my 'short' knitting journey… I can knit without looking for at least 5 stitches! Just like the nannas I remember on the tram when I was a girl. I was hypnotised by their nimble fingers way back then and now I can hypnotise my own brood (when I am not knitting from a complicated pattern!)

    Finally, three things I would really like to say about knitting
    1. Invest in good quality needles. I think this might be what got me from meh, I could knit to Whoa, I like this knitting thang!
    2. In a tricky pattern where you might make mistakes, insert a thread of dental floss in a row while you knit (easy if you use interchangeable needles as you can thread the floss through the 'locking/tightening' hole and then IF you make a mistake, you can frog back to an earlier row with confidence and ease. (Nothing like having confidence when frogging to make you feel like you can attempt anything in knitting)
    3. Frogging is THE most awesome term for a really crappy thing to have to do. I love that something so negative can make me giggle and sort of make it ok.
    :)

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  88. I've only been knitting for a couple of years. But this year has been the year to try and make clothes. I love the idea of making clothes... There is something about knitting actual clothes that has my head spinning and my heart racing... LOL!

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  89. I am taking my first knitting class this Friday!

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  90. My Mum-in-law has a heart condition and only a few years left with us, so the one thing she is making sure she does for all of us kids and grandkids, is to knit us something. Not spend lots of money but spend her precious time making something with her hands, that something is only going to get more special and full of the memory of her when she leaves us!

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  91. I love crochet and seem to be able to create what ever shape I want, but knitting..... hhhmmmm.... that is another skill that has so far been in the "too hard basket". I would love to knit but am challenged by reading patterns. All I have managed to knit so far are scarves in stocking stitch! I have been looking at gorgeous creations on blogs and Pinter@st and thinking it is time to have a go. Thanks for the hint about this pattern provider. I will check them out and it could be the inspiration I need to start. A visit to the Australian Sheep and Wool Show this weekend at Bendigo will be a nice place to get some unusual yarn and fibre for a new knitting pattern. I might even get a Tikki pattern there too.

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  92. You only began to knit two years ago and now you're pulling off those wonderful creations?! How inspiring you are. I am loving some of those patterns so with three grandchildren, this ol' Nanna had better get learning to do more than simple rows, dishcloths and squares for rugs, lol!

    I've been looking at the ravelry site today and love the patterns. As I'm recuperating from being in hospital, maybe now would be a good time to practise with some dolly clothes before I tackle anything bigger!

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  93. My mum (who is a left hander ) taught me ( a right hander ) very patiently , with the aid of a mirror, when I was in primary school and I have never looked back. I always have several projects on the go and find knitting creative, relaxing, inspiring and soothing. I have taught friends and workmates to knit, I have knitted by hospital bedsides, on car trips and on coffee mornings. I have made up my own patterns as well as supported other knitters by buying theirs. I had not heard of Tikka's designs before but am looking forward to browsing her website.

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  94. Wow, those are all stunning! I love the Tikki patterns but I am so SLOW at knitting, it took me 4 months to finish the Milo and we wont mentionits now 12 months since I cast on a Darwinia dress for Miss 5, lucky she is a skinny minnie so Im hopeful it will still fit her next year!

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  95. My first knitting, a green and white stripe scarf with which my Mum taught me how to knit, is still on the needles in one of my craft boxes 20 to 25 years later. Many knitted garments have slid off of needles in recent years but those first needles and that first yarn may stay as they are until I have the opportunity to teach another generation.

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  96. I've been knitting since I was in high school (the 80's) you can imagine some of those garments!!! I've taught myself to crochet in the last couple of years and love it for rugs, cushions etc. Lately I only seem to knit socks and wash cloths, but I'd love to make myself something new, especially for this cold winter.

    cheers Kate

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  97. Wow, I had no idea there were other crocheters out there resisting the call to knit. (or that the conversion to knitting could be so skilled so quickly. I came to your blog too late to get that part of the story).
    I have set my ravelry to only show me crochet projects so I won't be tempted. But with baby number 2 on the way, my mother got cross with me for only sending a crochet cardigan wish list and told me I had to look at knitting as well. And, my goodness, what wonderful patterns I found. I have been quietly coveting your girls country life and lovely knits for a while. Perhaps i can give my little ones a bit of the lovely mummy made knits even if they have to wear them inner city. Nothing gets a girl motivated like winning things!

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  98. Hi, I've been reading your blog for a couple of weeks and have really enjoyed going back through your old posts.
    I have been wanting to learn to knit for ages, I have a collection of knitting needles from op shops ready to go. I promise to start if I win the patterns! :)
    Natalie
    Nataliemartin@spin.net.au

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  99. A friend (http://acechick.typepad.com) taught me the basics of knitting in 2005 in a pub in London. I made a beanie and I was hooked. I taught myself the rest with the help of YouTube and joined a knitting group when we moved to Scotland. Now back in Australia I'm still trying to work my way through the stash I bought while living in the UK.

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  100. I too am a crocheter. I learned to knit when I was 18 from a boy who knitted hats (18years ago) I made a few, and when I moved to San Francisco I gave them away to a few homeless folks near my apartment and never knit again. Fast forward 18 years, and here I am amazed at your wonderful knit clothes. I've knit a small afghan with basic stitches and now have a baby cardigan pattern and yarn waiting for me to jump in. I'm inspired by the story of your start, as I hope I too can follow that path and have a few successful clothing items I can feel happy my kids will wear! I'm off to check out Tikki's site now!

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  101. My problem with knitting is trying to decide which wool and colour to buy. Right now my current wool exchange from Bendigo is on it's way back to me. I have one of her patterns but haven't got the wool to start on it yet and gee, you do need needles of different sizes which I have finally acquired. I can't wait though and should I win I'll def. be getting a Milo for the little one.

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  102. They're all wonderful.

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  103. As with many girls, I also learnt to knit and crochet from my Grandman. She lived with us in a 'granny flat' downstairs all my childhood. She gave me chocolate, money to go to town with and taught me useful things like: how to chop a toad in half witha hoe and how to cook chokos.
    My first knitting experience was a scarf. It was terribly long and mishappen, but I had made it.
    And it still gives me more pleasure than anything else in the world to say when I create something - a song, a meal, a piece of writing or a handmade treasure.
    I made it.

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  104. It was your PS that got me.

    I was reading and oohing nad aahing and thinking "dream on Carol - you can't knit without your shoulders ending up around your earlobes and your hands gnarled like the wicked witch of the west".

    I thought - I will just sit this one out and wish that I could.

    Then I remembered the amazing kit you blogged about a million posts ago where the company pack the needles and wool and pattern and it all looked beautiful and I thought I might go back and see if I can find it.

    Because maybe I CAN learn to knit.

    And just as I had that thought your PS hit me, so I am trusting you - apparently I can knit.

    Carol
    x

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  105. Milo. Thats the one. It is lovely. I am still scared of knitting but am back crocheting again. Determined, to , at one point, learn how to read a pattern and what all the stitches are called. One day- perhaps when I am on maternity leave. You are so clever on the sticks lovely lady. x

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  106. I taught myself to knit while pregnant with my 4th child, a girl called Pepper ;) I wasn't able to do much else during that pregnancy and like you couldn't stop picturing my little girl in pretty knits.
    xx

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  107. I remember when you were starting to knit! What tremendous results; you are so talented. You were obviously intended to work with needles!

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  108. My favourite Tikki pattern is the Cassia dress, has been sitting in my ravelry queue for some time.

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  109. The first thing I ever knitted was a pot holder, which was supposed to be rectangular, but ended up hand shaped... The second thing i knitted was a cardi for my Barbie, inset sleeves and everything - I have no idea how I managed it!

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  110. Oh wow so many responses already! I have just entered the world of crochet and have been loving my journey so far (which has been quite limited as I refuse to use patterns....). For some reason I am a great resister to the pattern and so far all my sewing and crocheting projects have only ever gone as far as my basic knowledge can take me. I have really been thinking about knitting lately and also about getting my act together and learning to follow some patterns. This prize would be that push I think I need and I would love to learn how to knit the Milo!

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  111. These are so gorgeous.
    I'm left handed & I really don't think I can knit- I've had a go a few times but i need someone to start me off & coach me the whoe time. I don't mind though, happy to look at other people's beautiful knitting!

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  112. Aha a fiendish way of getting your blog lurkers to come out :)
    Okay it worked , hello I love reading your blog but I never comment
    My favorite yarn at the moment is my handspun , but I am sure it will be something else next week . I fall in love with yarn very easily
    thank you for the generous giveaway

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  113. Yes fiendish indeed! There are lots of us out here I suspect! And yes I love your blog too.

    I have been searching for a winter vest to knit myself, just like Tikki's Milo vest, only in a women's size. But having had a little look at Tikki's patterns on Ravelry, I think I may just settle for Miss Jane cardigan. I am a self taught You Tuby knitter, with a bit of help from some lovely older knitters along the way. I havent come quite as far in two years though! An all knit patchwork blanket held me up for a while...

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  114. You see, it's your PS that got be started in the beginning. I read your blog all the time and I love hand knits, just didn't know how to make them. So, with your virtual encouragement, I decided to just start. OK so I am knitting my first uber simple double seed stitch cowl but I AM KNITTING!! So - there you have it Kate. Thanks so much (whether I win or not!!)

    Melanie.

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  115. Ohhhhh... Your post has inspired me to start knitting again. I was a prolific knitter before babies arrived on the scene (pre-babies I fantasised about how I would sit serenely in a rocking chair and knit gorgeous creations while my baby slept soundly for hours... Little did I know...) After 2 babies and severe craft withdrawal as we spent a year away from our home with minimal possessions... I am finally back home with the space & supplies to start knitting again. A beautiful pattern is the final inspiration I need to get me started... 2 Milo vests in different colours would be perfect layering for my 2 little girls in our mild Brisbane winters.

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  116. My grandmother taught me to knit and then I taught myself to crochet. For years it was a bit daggy to make your own things but I'm now revellling in handmade and the pleasure I get from making things. I'd love one of these patterns to make a cardigan for my 3 yo granddaughter. I love you blog and your adventures.

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  117. Hi Kate, your post is inspiring - I would love to be able to knit for my girls and if Tikki Knits are as easy to follow as you say then I may just give one a go. My Mum was a fabulous knitter and because of that I never had to knit as she made me jumpers and cardigans for probably twenty years! My Aunt, too, was an amazing knitter and she would go to the pictures whenever she had a sleeve to knit, so that she could do the boring bit while watching a movie!!
    Cheers, Trudy

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  118. I love Georgie's knits too. I think I might have found them about the same time you did. I was already a knitter (now I'm learning to crochet) and I found them soooo easy, just like you said. The first one I knitted was Paula's Scarfette for a friend. It was also the first time I'd attempted a cable. I don't have any kids but I knit loads of them for friend's kids and family. My next project will be the Miss Jane for me. Wool bought, pattern ready to go, just trying to find the time...

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  119. As a child I loved knitting, but I rarely finished anything. Knitting with two needles made my neck and shoulders hurt. The needles disappeared in a box and I never tried it again. A few years ago I wanted to use all hat creative energy that needed direction. Knitting wasn't an option anymore so I taught myself to crochet. And I love crocheting! A few months ago I discovered Arne and Carlos. These guys knit the most wonderful christmas balls. Owww, how I wanted to knit those. But I hate two needles and those wonderful christmas balls needed to be knitted with... four needles. OMG! And then I discovered the circular needles. Now I can make these lovely christmas balls and my neck and shoulders don't hurt anymore. But except christmas balls I didn't dare to knit anything else. And now I see these great Tikki patterns on your site. I looked briefly at a tutorial and I saw... circular needles! Does that mean that all these great Tikki patterns give you instructions how to knit with circular needles? If that is so, I would love love love to make something for my nieces. I hope my english makes any sense at all? With love from a dutch crocheting potata (and in the future perhaps a knitting potata?). P.S. I love your blog!

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  120. I am quite taken with Tikki Knits patterns. Some of my favorites are Suzanne, Cassia, Eden, Miss Jane & Lavender.

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  121. What a cool giveaway! I have knitted one Milo vest and my little girl in the middle loves wearing it and it keeps her so cosy and warm. I used some beautiful local Alpaca wool. I am knitting a Nova dress at the moment for my smallest little girl, but now I am thinking I really need to do a Milo vest for each of my girls. I left the cable out because I was a bit daunted by it but I can't wait to try it when I make the next one. Your knitting is awesome :)

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  122. my nanna taught me to knit mant years ago. i remember sitting with her and watching her knit. she was fast, could watch t.v at the same time and help me with my homework. plus she knitted me an awesome lemon and grey striped jumper with puffy sleeves. so 80's but i was in love.... with her and my jumper.

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  123. As a small boy in occupied Holland my grandpa taught himself to spin wool. With his father (my great grandfather) they built a spinning wheel, based on my grandpa's recollection of one he had seen on a school excursion. By learning to spin they were able to trade spun wool for food, which helped them survive the war.

    I knit with wool from my aunt's sheep farm, dyed by a cousin and spun my grandpa. Knitting is not just a hobby, it's a task that connects me to my family and my heritage!

    I'm now pregnant with my first child and am busy knitting up a storm! I'd love to win the patterns, but am also glad for the chance to share my 'knitting story'.

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  124. When I traveled in my 20s, I needed a new cardigan to take so I started knitting it while working as a nanny in the UK. I just had the sleeve to go so I kept going as we traveled on ferries, planes and trains. As I knitted, my friends and I knitted every friend and family into that sleeve. I was finished by the time we got to Kathmandu and found the most beautiful carved bone buttons to adorn it. 20 or more years later that cardigan still sits on my shelf. It's my most memorable knitting story. I've just discovered Tikki Knits and would be so exited to win some patterns!

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  125. When my son was about 7 he requested a jumper - from this amazing mohair someone bought back from Ireland. He watched and asked through the whole process. then when it was finally finished he declared "oh I'm not going to wear it!' Hmmmm! Even now (at 18)He asks me to make things - recently a hat for uni. I love that neverending trust that 'mum'll do it!'

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  126. Hi kate,

    I have at least two crochet and 1 knitting project always on the go..and I swap depending on what I feel like doing. Just the thought of it calms me throughout the day if I need it, I relish a few rows during the day if I get it, and lots of rows in the evening nourishes and sustains me. I love it.

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  127. What great timing!!! I just finished my first ever knitting project last week, a simple scarf from the women's weekly knitting supplement from las months magazine! How proud I felt to actually be able to finish it! Now I am looking for something else to cast on and keep the needles clicking

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  128. When I was a little girl in Brownies, I had to knit a 30cm x 30cm square as one of the tasks required to earn one of my Brownie badges. Well... it took me over a year to finish that pesky square!! So that was the end of my knitting days for a long, long time. Until one day when I was pregnant with my first baby, my mother-in-law asked if I was going to knit something for the baby? So she reminded me how cast on and off and a few other tips along the way and I've been knitting ever since! I love Georgie's fabulous seamless patterns too - Olearia is my favourite so far!

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  129. i can't believe you have only been knitting for two years. i have tried and tried over the years but i am still having trouble reading a pattern and i am still on a very basic level. these tikki patterns look adorable though, i might have to give one a try. love the milo vest, i have a small thing going on when it comes to vests.

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  130. The first time I saw the Oriental Lily I was inspired to learn to knit and like you I spent time watching you tube plus I have friends who knit and dye yarn, so I asked my friend at Woollywumpkins to dye me some yarn for what I would need for the Oriental Lily so it would fit my little girl Summer, gave her some colour ideas and in the post arrived her colour-way Summer Lily. Took me months to knit it but I loved it, she has since grown out of it so obviously I had to knit her another and now my brothers girlfriend would like me to knit her niece one. Love all of Georgie's patterns Suzanne and Elizabeth are next on my list :)

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  131. I love knitting and love that my daughter is now learning.
    My latest knitting project is dishcloths, which are proving very hardy in the kitchen.
    Love love love her patterns and my kids NEED some handknits!
    All of your knitting is beautiful and I love the colours you choose.

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  132. Ive known tiki for a wee while now and it is because of her I started knitting, mind youim no where near as prolific as either of you, but I do quite like, as frustrating as I find it at times. I have a very long and slow to do list, one day though right?

    I loved your post it was beautiful, three cheers for Miss Tik.

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  133. thanks for sharing your knitting story! i was also a crocheter first, and i crocheted like a madwoman for about three years. however, i wanted to make sweaters and socks and when i crocheted them they just didn't turn out the way i wanted. so my friend taught me how to knit (and i figured out how to purl) and then i signed up for a sock class. i dove right in and right after the sock class finished, i took a sweater class. that was about a year and a half ago and i've been knitting like crazy ever since!

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  134. Ps. Your girls are gorgeous!!!!

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  135. I love knitting...mostly! I am about to finish what has been a mammoth project for me - a cot blanket for my middle daughter! I started it while in hospital just before I had her two years ago, but lost the passion for it soon after she was born. Earlier this year I knitted my first Tikki pattern, a milo, and all of a sudden stitches made sense to me, so I've made it my mission to finish her blanket for her 2nd birthday in 10 days time. And yes I did say middle daughter....my youngest is 4 weeks old today, and will need her own blanket too!!
    P.S. I wish I could pull off wearing a milo the way my girls do - it just doesn't seem so cute on a grown up does it?!

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  136. My store is similar to yours. I joined Ravelry and only knew how to crochet. After searching through the patterns I found all of these knitted garments I was dying to make (several by Georgie) for my daughter. I had tried knitting before but threw the project across the room several times in frustration. But this time I had more determination. So I picked up a book and taught my self. Now several years later, there is not a day that goes by that I don't knit at least a little bit.

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  137. I remember first coming across the rainbow dress pattern many years ago on Georgies blog. I think it was her first pattern and at the time it was free. I loved that pattern from the start and I've been a huge fan ever since. I've learnt a lot in the last few years knitting her patterns. I would love to be a test knitter for her also! Can I also say, given that you've only been knitting 2 years Kate, your knits are stunning. Great job :-)
    Nichole

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  138. My story is similar to yours and many others. I was inspired to learn by Ravelry and learned via YouTube and a couple of books. At first it was a little frustrating, but once I figured out what I was doing, every new technique seems to be a "piece of cake!" I have a few Tikki's under my belt in the year and a half that I've been knitting and I am looking forward to many more! I have an almost 3-year old boy and 1-year old girl and lots of knitting in my future.

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  139. I learned to knit in school and then watched my mum knit for me growing up. I've been knitting every day for about 7 years now and I totally get it!
    I've loved Tikki's designs for quite a while just haven't had the chance to knit any yet!

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  140. Reading your post made me wonder how many of Tikki's patterns I have made too and digging back through Ravelry, while it's nowhere near the amount you have, four patterns from the same designer for someone like myself who doesn't do "alot" of knitting, it speaks wonders for Georgie's pattern writting skills and designs that I keep going back to them!

    I know recently I was looking for a new project, and with nothing specifc in mind I just went to Georgie's page and browsed her designs, picked out the Jane pattern and 5 days later my little 14m old was wearing a gorgeous little cardigan.

    A couple of years ago I taught myself knitting and crochet (with a lot of help from Youtube) just so, like you, I could make up these gorgeous patterns I was seeing on blogs and in colours and yarn that I love instead of just what is available at the shops.

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  141. My beautiful Mum taught to knit when I was a kid and I recently did a YouTube refresher. Have churned out a couple of scarves and a baby blanket but I'm stuck on my first sock. I'm about to pull it out and start again (I hate doing that). But I will persist, next on my list is my first cardigan, just need to find the right wool...
    Thanks for your blog xoxo

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  142. I'm wild with jealousy at your amazing skills! Knitting scares me and seems so hard. I picked up crochet so easily, but am determined to one day try my hand again at knitting something other than a scarf or a headband... A good time appears to be now with young babies! Thanks Kate x

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  143. Knitting to me is the last physical thing that my great grand-mother taught me before her bones started getting too weary, what I remember most, is her saying to me

    "Knitting is hard, but it's also mending, respect it and you will enjoy it. I say hard because you need to have self control - which sometimes you struggle with my dear - and mending because it can soothe a worried mind or fidgety fingers, it can mend empty time and empty drawers *chuckle* but know that you are creating love from your fingers and a ball of wool."

    I miss her.

    I didn't really take to knitting again for a long time, and have only really recently picked it up again in the last two years, oddly enough my first project was one of Tikki's Milo's hehe.

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  144. Kate, your posts are always inspiring!!
    I'd love a pair of knitted pants for my little man for winter, and after checking a few out on handmade sites, maybe, just maybe I could learn to knit him a pair!!
    Oh how i'd love to snap my fingers and they would appear, and I've made them!! heehee

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  145. I learned to knit last October and quickly became addicted. And then the yarn obsession began... One of my favorites right now are all the yarns dyed by Wren of Sunrise Fiber Co (on Etsy). She does AMAZING work.

    I haven't tried any of Tikki's patterns yet (but I have been eyeing quite a few up!). I'd love to try Lavender, Elizabeth, all of the Zigs, LIttle Butterflies, Fratello, Sorello, Bloom and Milo. Wow! That's a long list! I better get started...

    mamatojj on Rav

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  146. I was taught to knit by my Dad. He learnt while in hospital as a kid, and although my Mum tried to teach me she is right handed and my Dad and I, left handed. I was about 7 years old then and I have been knitting now for 27 years. My 1 year old baby girl is already showing an interest in knitting..........well, more an interest in unwinding balls of yarn and throwing it around the room when I'm not looking! (BellaSinistra on Rav)

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  147. I was inspired to knit too by a Tikki pattern. It was the Oriental Lily and I just HAD to make it for my daughter for her birthday. It was a success and I have gone on to knit many more tikki knits since then and made another dress for my daughter for her next birthday. Both my kids love to pretend to knit while I do and I hope someday I will be able to teach them both.

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  148. I was linked to your blog from tikkis ravelry group. I am right with you in being a huge fan of tikki's patterns. She is an amazing designer, her patterns are so easy to understand and I adore her designs. I just wish I had more hours in the day to knit them!

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  149. I've been a crocheter my whole life and have always drooled over knit items until I finally decided to learn one day. I feel in love :) My daughter is 4 now and has started asking for stuff and it make me so happy to knit her skirts, dresses and even doll clothes.

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  150. I have been knitting for over 30 years since a small child, but these days I am endlessly inspired by the new world of knitting, yarn, and amazing designers like Georgie. I love how small the world of yarn has become so that we can accidently on purpose find and learn from each other. Thank you for this amazing opportunity to win these gems of patterns.

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  151. I saw the Milo and fell in love! I made 3 of them already! I love Tikki Knits and would love some more of her amazing patterns!
    Thanks!

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  152. I was linked here from Tikki's ravelry group. I'm also a fan of Tikki's patterns, especially the Milo. Such a simple design but so easy to customise. I love how quickly it knits up as well. I love that she has so many designs for boys as well.

    I love to knit, I just wish I had more time in the day, or faster fingers! With 4 kids to knit for I'm kept pretty busy lol

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  153. I am a new knitter and painfully slow! I am currently knitting Cassia for a friend's little girl. It so well written. I love the color coding it makes it so easy for a new knitter to follow!

    Carrie Jo

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  154. Wow, what an inspiring story :-)
    Recently I mainly knit photo props by request for my mum, who incidentally taught me to knit in the first place. My daughter and I adore Georgie's designs, and frequently my Lily requests that I knit her "something from the other Lily's mum".
    I'm sure it's obvious that knitting is a big expression of mummy-daughter love in my family! :-)

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  155. I very much <3 Tikki knits! I learned to knit just over 3 years ago while pregnant with my third child, and haven't looked back since - all three kidlets and me are well outfitted with handknit sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves... Unfortunately the only thing my husband ever wants me to knit are dishclothes, he's always running hot and doesn't wear anything warm.
    We all love Milo - all of my kids have at least one, and I've gifted a couple as well, and my oldest daughter's very favorite sweater is her Girl's Best Cardi. I love Georgie's patterns for how clear and concise they are, as well as how gorgeous the finished products are!

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  156. I very much <3 Tikki knits! I learned to knit just over 3 years ago while pregnant with my third child, and haven't looked back since - all three kidlets and me are well outfitted with handknit sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves... Unfortunately the only thing my husband ever wants me to knit are dishclothes, he's always running hot and doesn't wear anything warm.
    We all love Milo - all of my kids have at least one, and I've gifted a couple as well, and my oldest daughter's very favorite sweater is her Girl's Best Cardi. I love Georgie's patterns for how clear and concise they are, as well as how gorgeous the finished products are!

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  157. My grandma taught me to knit when I was about 8, but the knowledge drifted until my daughter was about 1. Somehow it just clicked then, and I haven't stopped in the last two years. I have no idea what I spent my time doing before I could knit! Second baby is on the way, still knitting away for the 3 year old, and dabbling in larger things for myself. Tikki patterns fit all of these requirements. You own photos and projects are also very inspiring! Thank you very much! Deidre

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  158. I was also taught to knit by Oma at an early age, then forgot about it till I had children of my own. Started crochetting and trailed the net to find gorgeous knitting patterns I just had to try. Am now in the process of re-learning how to knit with youtube. My mother in Law is visiting in December and she is a great knitter so am looking forward to that. Love the Tikki patterns!

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  159. My Mom taught me to knit along time ago, I've taught my daughter to knit and I hope to teach my grand kids to knit. It's a wonderfull to learn and pass on. Would love to have these patterns they are so nice.

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  160. i am an on again - off again knitter. it is summer here in canada - and i can barely think of knitting. but as soon as that cooler weather hits i'll be at it again. i like knitting with natural yarns mostly.

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  161. the first non scarf item i knitted was a nb cardi for my baby brother when he was born with the help of my mum, :o) and this year 21 years after knitting the cardi for him, I was lucky enough to be able to knit a matching cardi for his nb son :o)

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  162. I too have been encouraged by tikki to knit for my daughters. I feel it is so perfect to have a designer like her around to come up with beautiful garments our children can wear!

    My daughter calls knitting "knittling" which seems to be a cross between knitting and needles. It's precious toddler-speak. The other day, she turned to me and said, "Daddy doesn't knittle or crochet. He just watches TV." We got a big kick out of her reducing her Daddy's contribution to this family to nothing since he doesn't knittle.

    :)

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  163. Love Tikki patterns. Only recently purchased Bloom, haven't started it yet. Need to wait another 4 weeks to find out if it will be of use. Fingers crossed. If not, I will find another little girl to gift one too

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  164. Knitting is my obsession!

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  165. I am loving the knitting this winter! Discovering circular knitting in the last 18 months has revolutionised knitting for me - no more sewing together, I love casting off and wearing instantly!!

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  166. I Love yarn and knitting. If I feel stressed or tired all I have to do to feel better is go to a yarn store and gaze at all the beautiful colors and textures. I learned to knit at age 7, but no one showed me how to cast on, bind off, or purl. So after knitting long things forever, I stopped until at age 18 someone else taught me how to cast on, knit, purl. and bind off. It grew from there. Now I can't stop knitting new techniques and stitches. My next goal is to knit one of Tikki's sweaters (I should say several because I have 11 grandchildren to knit for.

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  167. I have recently been teaching my 7 year old son to knit. He has picked it up well!!! I love kitting and wish that I had more time to do it xxxx

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  168. My Nanna always knitted - I never saw her not knitting, and I tried many times to teach myself over the years (I should have just asked her to teach me!), but it never worked. Then about 3 years ago it suddenly did work! After a couple of dishcloths I was determined to move onto a "real" project - so my first project was a Milo - in gorgeous Woolganics!!! I still have that wee vest and tikki is still one of my most favourite designers! :D

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  169. I loved your blog post because I too was propelled forward by Georgie's wonderful designs! My all time favorite knitting experience was tikkis Mystery KAL, where I overcame my fear of anything knitting related... I realized I just need to take each project one direction at a time. I love love the sorello I made.. And since have really enjoyed making Milo's and a Cassia that my daughter looooves. I have a Little butterflies in the planning... But of I won I'd have to get Oleara. I looove tat pattern!

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  170. I learnt to knit about 3.5 years ago now when my oldest was just a baby and I too am a huge fan of Tikki's patterns, with the Milo being my favourite and the one I have knitted the most too. So practical and look good while being easy & quick to knit. :-)

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  171. I love knitting.
    I was taught by my Nan at age 8..
    It took me until about 6 years ago to grasp the technique of purling... it just wouldnt click with my brain..

    I've never looked back :)

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  172. Knitting, huh? Like you I'm a crocheter with an urge to learn knitting! I've crocheted since I was 16 and although I learnt to knit at that time too, I just felt it was too slow! Now, though, I look at all the patterns and pretty knitted garments and want to knit!
    So like you, I asked the YouTube ladies how to and they very kindly helped out.
    I'm just at the very beginning of my knitting journey - at the beanie stage - but already I Have Plans!

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  173. OH wow what a great giveaway and prize! My Nana taught me to knit when I was around 10. I still have the first thing I knit. I think it was meant to be a scarf...it was bright pink with many holes in it. I added some more colours many years later when I had sorted out things and didn't drop so many stitches! :) I just love knitting and I think I need to try something a bit harder now! :) That is so great you have learnt in the last couple of years!

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  174. ohmygoodness!!! so many lovely comments !
    I think my mum taught me how to knit, but over the years, I forgot, as most do :) I picked up the needles again when pregnant with my daughter, (5years ago), and finally got a lesson 3 years later so I could actually really start something. I am allllllllmost (!) finished a pair of longies (now for my son!), just casting off and seaming... its been a great learning curve, even if its taken me almost 5 years. I have completed beanies and scarves in the meantime. I love your knits, they inspire me to no end! please do keep knitting :)
    I love the milo vest. I came across it after I won a teeny one, but my son came out too big, and so now he has a bigger second hand one. It is my plan to learn to knit in the round now, so I can make him one for next year, with new wool, just for him, big boy style !!
    thanks tiKi !!!
    Lauren

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  175. My Mum tought me the basics of knittig when I was 13. After I got some experience, I've knitted jumpers for each family members, and they wore and liked those simple T-sleeved pullovers - even my brother. :))
    Than I've found Ravelry, about 3 years ago, and I realized how many knitting-technics are there - so I'm re-learning knitting, and I enjoy it very-very much.

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  176. Oh what a lovely giveaway! I grew up knowing about and loving knitting and the handknits we wore. I come from a family of knitters and growing up was given knits from my Mum, Grandma and Aunty. Such beautiful creations. I remember learning early on how to knit but not really taking it up in a 'there's always something on the needles because it's good for my soul' kind of way until my mid 20's. Even then I really took off knitting a lot when my nieces and nephew and then my own child was born. There is just something so wonderful about creating little pieces of clothing for the special people in your life :) Happy knitting to you!

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  177. I wanted desperately to learn to knit but my mom is a left handed knitter. After the birth of my son I say there for hours watching her and trying to reverse everything in my head. Persistence paid off and I am now an accomplished knitter. Now my six year old son wants me to teach him!!

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  178. You know I really *can't* knit, whatever you say, so I'm not entering the giveaway, because a pattern would be wasted on me.

    I mean, I can knit, and I did knit blankets for each of my babies before they were born, but that was easy because they were just moss stitch all the way, no counting stitches or counting rows, plus they were knitted with big needles and 3-4 strands of wool each. So I jjust had to choose colours that blended well together (that's the part I really like), And start knitting.

    I must admit your pics are gorgeous though. I would *like* to be able to knit like that, I just don't gave the patience. And unpicking? It's my worst nightmare.

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  179. Once upon a time back in primary school the CWA ladies taught me how to knit a beanie, my one and only knitting project.

    A few days ago I visited the Alice Springs Art Gallery and was in awe of the works on display at the Beanie Festival Exhibition.

    Today I am writing to you, having read your blog, now inspired to give knitting another go. Thanks!!

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  180. Kate, I am a wannabe knitter :), I have started on numerous occasions projects but haven't quite got there. My Mum loves knitting and I have a very talented sister-in-law, who has knitted my kids a Tikki knit each, so there is no lack of inspiration there! A very special friend of mine, who passed away a couple of years ago taught me to knit at work. I have a friend with a bub due at the end of the year and I am determined to knit her something special. I'm thinking a Tikki Milo might just be the go ... Roll on YouTube and a very understanding Mum I think ... and possibly a husband who can dodge knitting needles thrown in angst ....

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  181. hi kate....i do knit but only very basic things but i recently made my little sunny a dress - the rainbow one - i was inspired by a dress one of your girls was wearing....i learnt from youtube too how to do the fancy cast on, knit with circular needles - i also asked my mother and sister inlaws for some help too...and it is finished and she is wearing it. I too love crochet and am a bit better at that - but i am having a knitting revival and I especially love those Tikki patterns. By the way I do love your blog and have a peek every few days - I am also a Kate, with three kids, living rural.. but on the mid north coast. It does get cold here at night as we are up a valley but i imagine it is much brisker where you are. Anyway goodnight....

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  182. i learned to knit when I was 8. i think my Nan taught me to try keeping me quiet on long school holidays . now I knit to relax ,to ponder and most importantly I knit so my kids have some amazinguyen clothes that can't be bought in shops

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  183. I have strayed away from knitting and took up crochet a couple of years ago- these beautiful patterns inspire my desire for some knitting though-really!! THANK YOU for the awesome give-away!!!

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  184. I learnt to knit when I was 8 or 9, nearly 40 yrs ago!Eek! It's my favourit craft for calming and soothing, or whiling away a cold winters day.

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  185. I learnt to knit when I was 8 or 9, nearly 40 yrs ago!Eek! It's my favourit craft for calming and soothing, or whiling away a cold winters day.

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  186. it;s lovely seeing all your knits together Kate, my favourite of all your pics is the Noro dress you made for Pepper, it is beautiful.
    My favourite thing about knitting is that my Mum is an amazing life-long knitter and it is something that we have in common that we both love to do and gives us a really special bond. Warm fuzzies.
    Have a lovely weekend X

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  187. I ferst began knitting when I was ten years old and I saw a girl younger than me knit a scarf for herself. I was so impressed. I never did finish my first scarf... The first knitting project I did finish was a blanket for my first babe. She loves every stitch and carries it around everywhere, even though she is almost nine. I've almost completed another two blankets since then... But my proudest knitting achievement would have to be knitting a Tikki Milo vest for my littlest one. I used left over bits from the blankets while I got my head around the stitches and knitting in the round. I taught myself how to knit a piece of actual clothing! What a revelation! Next time I'm going to choose some really super lovely yarn. Must do that again soon... I'm amazed at your speed with picking it up, Kate. And super inspired. xx

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  188. I started knitting about 18 months ago. I'd tried before, but failed miserably and this time I was determined to do it. I did, and made a cardigan for my DD as my first project. I haven't really stopped since. On the side of this, I have also discovered a rather shocking yarn habit!

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  189. I've learnt to knit as a child in 1st grade. About 5years ago I've picked it up again, and usually knit several hours a day. I love tikki designs, they are so classic and timeless. My children have several milos and I recently completed a bloom, such a pretty dress. Martina

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  190. I will tell you about knitting... socks! A few years ago I tried to knit socks but got very confused when turning the heel and gave up. Then last year we went on holidays in Europe and I wanted a crafty project that I could take with me on long flights and train trips, so I decided to give sock knitting another go. That pair of socks worked out really well, and so this winter I started on my second pair. I now have a plan to knit a pair of socks each winter, sometimes for me, sometimes for someone else.

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  191. In for a penny in for a pound as they say! You know me I am a wool addict.....never not knitting which is funny because I had a long break and have only picked it back up again about 5 yrs ago after I knitted a scarf for the boys teddy. One day they asked for a knitted rabbit like the one that was in a magazine I had been browsing thru and I went online to search for knitted rabbits. I found Little Cotton Rabbits blog and haven't stopped knitting since. I even taught myself to crochet which I had been unable to master when I was younger much to my disgust as my brother was a whizz at it, thanks to the wonderful YouTube tutorials and my lovely neighbours. I cant imagine a day without wool! :-)

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  192. Hi Kate, I learnt to knit when I was a real littlie, maybe 6 or so. I knit more jumpers than my little cabbage patch could wear. Fast forward 30 years and as a mum of 4, I have never knitted them a thing! I want to fix that... Your blog makes me think about how we live with our tiny yard here in the middle of Sydney - thank you!

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  193. Knitting is my escape from life's chaos. Focus on counting stitches and not much else. The milo is my go to pattern for new baby presents. Love her designs. X ashley

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  194. I love knitting for my friends- my favourite simple pattern at the moment is fingerless gloves- cast on 40 stitches on a pair of size 8 needles, do 2 inches of a 2 purl, 2 plain rib, 2.5 inches of stocking stich and 1 inch of 1 purl, 1 plain rib. Use whatever colours and patterns you like, stich them together and leave a thumb hole- they are brilliant and good for using up scraps of wool!

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Thanks so much for stopping by...

I do read every single comment you leave and appreciate it very much, but I should let you know that I can be a wee bit on the useless side when replying to comments, that's just me, everyday life sometimes gets in the way....so I'll apologise now, just in case.

Kate XX

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