bitstobuy

The hazards of baby-led weaning and pasta in green spinach sauce

2012-02-27T10:40:00.001Z

'I want MORE!!!!!'

Knitting in Brighton!

2012-02-26T17:11:00.001Z

I just love having a day out in Brighton, and today was smashing because the sun was shining and everywhere was just vibrant and throbbing! We are only about 40 minutes drive away and as we had to be there early, parking was not a problem, which is sometimes an issue.
We were part of a party taken on a tour by the Sussex Archaeological Society and were shown Brighton landscape relating to the poor and the affluent architecture of the city, round about the railway station. It is very interesting to be shown round by a knowledgeable guide and we certainly learned a lot and found parts of the city we had never seen before.
Every time I go to Brighton I say I must take a photograph of the knitted Brighton Pavilion in the window of an eating place in the North Laines. So today I finally remembered to take my camera and here it is:

Thank you to the owner Peter who kindly allowed me to take the photograph. It is quite famous and can also be found on Ravelry and other places on the web.
After the walk we sat just inside to have lunch and I was able to look at the construction close up - it is quite a work of art. And the knitted tea cosies inside are beautiful! Peter did the knitting, and I have read that he was also responsible for some yarn bombing - the leg warmers that appeared some time ago on the Max Miller statue near to the Royal Theatre. I did actually see these! But unfortunately didn't have my camera again, and to some extent when I spotted them I couldn't really believe what I was seeing. By the time I went again they had gone.
The food was wonderful and we will definitely visit again.
(I don't have any connections with Temptations but can certainly recommend the food and the knitting).
While I was browsing knitting in Brighton I also came across this. Bizarre.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Free miniature knitting pattern - Dolls house family part 2

2012-02-25T12:17:00.000Z

I designed this pattern for a dolls house family because I thought it would be fun! OK not one for miniature collectors this one, but ideal to knit for a first dolls house for a toddler or small child. The figures are in 1:12 scale, so all the usual 12th scale garments will fit.

Here is the pattern for the mother doll, the others I will be listing on the blog soon.

DOLLS HOUSE FAMILY MINIATURE KNITTING PATTERN - MOTHER DOLL

Materials required: A pair of 2mm (size 14) knitting needles. A small ball of 2ply flesh coloured or cream yarn and a small ball of 2ply white yarn or 20 crochet cotton for the underclothes. Two black beads for eyes and scraps of yarn for hair. Polyester stuffing.

Measurements: The doll is 5½ to 6 inches tall. All the 1:12 scale garments in the bitstobuy range will fit the doll.

Abbreviations: st = stitch; sts = stitches; k = knit; p = purl; ss = stocking stitch (one row knit, one row purl); inc = increase by working twice into next stitch; dec = decrease by working next two sts together; turn = turn knitting round and work back along sts just knitted; k2tog = knit 2 sts together; p2tog = purl 2 sts together; [ ] = repeat instructions in brackets.

MOTHER BODY AND HEAD

Cast on 12 sts. Ss 4 rows.

Next row: k2, k2tog, k4, k2tog, k2 (10 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, k2tog, k2, k2tog, k2 (8 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k2, inc in next st, k2 (10 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k4, inc in next st, k2 (12 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k6, inc in next st, k2 (14 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

Next row: [k2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

Next row: inc once in every st (14 sts)

Starting with a p row, ss 11 rows.

Next row: [k2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (14 sts)

Ss 11 rows.

Next row: [p2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Ss 3 rows.

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (14 sts)

Ss 4 rows.

Next row: k2, k2tog, k6, k2tog, k2 (12 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, k2tog, k4, k2tog, k2 (10 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, k2tog, k2, k2tog, k2 (8 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k2, inc in next st, k2 (10 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k4, inc in next st, k2 (12 sts)

Starting with a p row, ss 4 rows.

Cast off purlwise.

To make up body and head:

Do not press. With right sides together, fold in half and seam down each side. Turn right side out and insert a small amount of stuffing. Close bottom seam.

ARM (Make two )

Cast on 10 sts.

Ss 10 rows.

Next row: k, decreasing one st at each end of row (8 sts).

Starting with a p row ss 9 rows.

Next row: [k2tog] 4 times (4 sts)

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (8 sts)

Ss 4 rows.

Break yarn, leaving a long end, and gather through sts. Fasten off.

To make up:

Do not press. With wrong sides together, fold in half and seam on right side with small stitches, inserting a small amount of stuffing at the same time. Leave top open. Sew into place on body.

LEG (Make two)

Cast on 3 sts.

Next row: Inc once in every st (6 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: [k2, inc in next st] twice (8 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

To turn heel:

Next row: k1, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k2, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k3, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k to end

Next row: p1, turn

Next row: k

Next row: p2, turn

Next row: k

Next row: p3, turn

Next row: k

Starting with a p row ss 13 rows.

Next row: k, increasing one st at each end of row (10 sts).

Starting with a p row ss 15 rows.

Cast off.

To make up:

Do not press. With wrong sides together, fold in half and seam on right side with small stitches, inserting a small amount of stuffing at the same time. Leave top open. Sew into place on body.

Finishing:

Make hair as follows: cut lengths of yarn about 12 inches (30 cm) long and sew into place on head along parting. Tie mothers hair back and secure at back of neck, and twist upwards into chignon and secure.

Sew tiny black beads to face for eyes.

KNICKERS

Cast on 14 sts. Work in k1, p1 rib for 2 rows.

Next row: Working in k, inc 1 st at each end of row (16 sts)

Beginning with a p row, ss 9 rows.

Continue in ss, dec one st at each end of the next 6 rows (4 sts).

Ss 4 rows.

Continue in ss, inc one st at each end of the next 6 rows (16 sts).

Ss 9 rows.

Next row: Working in p, dec 1 st at each end of row (14 sts)

Work in k1, p1 rib for 2 rows. Cast off in rib.

To make up:

With right sides together fold in half and join along the side seams. Turn right side out and press very gently with a cool iron.

(My apologies for the formatting of the above pattern, I have problems copying and pasting successfully into Blogger!)

The pattern is also available as a kit from the website www.bitstobuy.co.uk, giving all the yarn etc needed to complete the whole family.

bitstobuy meets beepbeep designs for 12th scale minature knitting

2012-02-20T17:00:00.000Z

Some of our customers have already made the connection! Beepbeep designs is my daughter, and we share the hobby of miniature knitting. I tend to stick with the dolls house items, and amongst other things Anna knits and designs for bjd (ball jointed dolls). They are both 12th scale, but the dimensions are slightly differerent, and the styles vary - dolls house garments are more traditional but bjd tiny designs are cuter and more for little girls.

We don't live very close togther but when we manage to meet up there are always plenty of knitting related activities to share!

For bitstobuy:

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/bitstobuy/m.html?item=130635275930&sspagename=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649&_trksid=p4340.l2562

For beepbeep designs:

http://beepbeepdesigns.blogspot.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/beepbeep?ref=em

http://www.windthebobbinup.co.uk/

http://folksy.com/shops/beepbeep

http://www.beepbeepdesigns.co.uk/minis/

http://www.beeptwo.com/

Free miniature knitting pattern - Dolls house family part 1

2012-02-17T11:04:00.000Z

Here is the pattern for the father doll, the others I will be listing on the blog soon.

DOLLS HOUSE FAMILY MINIATURE KNITTING PATTERN - FATHER DOLL

Measurements: The doll is 5½ to 6 inches tall. All the 1:12 scale garments in the bitstobuy range will fit the doll.

FATHER BODY AND HEAD

Cast on 12 sts.

Ss 18 rows.

Next row: k2, inc in next st, k6, inc in next st, k2 (14 sts)

Starting with a p row, ss 3 rows

Next row: [k2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

Next row: inc once in every st (14 sts)

Starting with a p row, ss 11 rows.

Next row: [k2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (14 sts)

Ss 11 rows.

Next row: [p2tog] 7 times (7 sts)

Ss 3 rows.

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (14 sts)

Ss 3 rows.

Next row: p2, p2tog, p6, p2tog, p2 (12 sts)

Ss 18 rows.

Cast off.

To make up body and head:

Do not press. With right sides together, fold in half and seam down each side. Turn right side out and insert a small amount of stuffing. Close bottom seam.

ARM (Make two )

Cast on 10 sts.

Ss 10 rows.

Next row: k, decreasing one st at each end of row (8 sts).

Starting with a p row ss 9 rows.

Next row: [k2tog] 4 times (4 sts)

Next row: inc purlwise once in every st (8 sts)

Ss 4 rows.

Break yarn, leaving a long end, and gather through sts. Fasten off.

To make up:

Do not press. With wrong sides together, fold in half and seam on right side with small stitches, inserting a small amount of stuffing at the same time. Leave top open. Sew into place on body.

LEG (Make two)

Cast on 3 sts.

Next row: Inc once in every st (6 sts)

Next row: p

Next row: [k2, inc in next st] twice (8 sts)

Starting with a p row ss 3 rows.

To turn heel:

Next row: k1, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k2, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k3, turn

Next row: p

Next row: k to end

Next row: p1, turn

Next row: k

Next row: p2, turn

Next row: k

Next row: p3, turn

Next row: k

Starting with a p row ss 13 rows.

Next row: k, increasing one st at each end of row (10 sts).

Starting with a p row ss 15 rows.

Cast off.

To make up:

Do not press. With wrong sides together, fold in half and seam on right side with small stitches, inserting a small amount of stuffing at the same time. Leave top open. Sew into place on body.

Finishing:

Make hair as follows: sew long loops around side of head and trim to length.

Sew tiny black beads to face for eyes.

BOXER SHORTS

Cast on 14 sts. Work in k1, p1 rib for 2 rows.

Next row: Working in k, inc 1 st at each end of row (16 sts)

Beginning with a p row, ss 11 rows.

Next row: Cast off 4 sts, k to end (12 sts)

Next row: Cast off 4 sts purlwise, p to end (8 sts)

Continue in ss, dec one st at each end of the next 2 rows (4 sts).

Ss 4 rows.

Continue in ss, inc one st at each end of the next 2 rows (8 sts).

Next row: Cast on 4 sts, k to end (12 sts)

Next row: Cast on 4 sts, p to end (16 sts)

Ss 11 rows.

Next row: Working in p, dec 1 st at each end of row (14 sts)

Work in k1, p1 rib for 2 rows. Cast off in rib.

To make up:

With right sides together fold in half and join along the side seams. Turn right side out and press very gently with a cool iron.

The pattern is also available as a kit from the website www.bitstobuy.co.uk, giving all the yarn etc needed to complete the whole family.

Pukifee bjd knitted sweater for winter 12th scale

2012-02-13T14:43:00.000Z

My daughter makes some lovely tiny garments for ball-jointed-dolls. These are basically 1:12 scale, the same as 12th scale dolls house, but have a much larger head, which can make it a bit difficult to make removable clothing, but she seems to have got it sorted!

I love this yoked patterned sweater and leggings, shown on her Pukifee. I believe that the pattern and possibly ready knitted garments will soon be making an appearance in her Etsy store http://www.etsy.com/shop/beepbeep?ref=em

Hand made PVC shopping bags

2012-02-10T09:32:00.000Z

I have a favourite shopping bag which I bought in Liberty's many years ago - I especially like it because of the compact size and square shape with gusset. Unfortunately the handles have gone through so when I was in London a few weeks back I looked round Liberty, but they don't seem to do the PVC ones any more.
So I bought one metre of PVC fabric from John Lewis and set to to make my own.
Firstly the PVC I bought is not quite as thick and strong as the original bag, but I didn't realise that until I got home, and it will be OK if I take care with them.
I measured the original bag, and with the help of a biro on the wrong side marked the fabric (why do they never cut straight and square when cutting from a roll so you have to square it up before you can start?). I managed two bags plus some new handles for the old one.

My new shopping bags and iPod case (old bag at the back)

Then I hit the problem of sewing it with my machine - it is so sticky it will not move through. A quick internet search found the answer - sandwich on each side between greaseproof paper which is pulled away after. Job done!
It was a bit of a fiddle and I ended up with torn paper all over the floor but I got there in the end and I now have two new bags plus a repaired one. There are some smaller pieces of PVC left and I made a little zipped bag to hold my iPod and headphones. I will probably make some more similar bags with the rest when I get round to it and can think of a use for them!

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

More sweet miniature knitted items listed on ebay today

2012-02-08T21:52:00.000Z

I have listed more ready knitted 12th scale items for the dolls house on ebay today, including my favourite blanket. I just love knitting this one; I choose the colours as I go along so no two are the same. It is knitted in very fine yarn, as one piece with no joins so it drapes beautifully. See my listings at http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/bitstobuy/m.html?item=130643437145&sspagename=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649&_trksid=p4340.l2562
Each one takes me 2-3 days to knit, but hey ho, it keeps me busy.

Knitted blanket in 1:12 scale for a dolls house double bed

I have also listed all my knitting books, now with free P&P. Or all available, together with lots more patterns, for instant download from www.ravelry.com under my designers name bitstobuy http://www.ravelry.com/designers/helen-cox
Thank goodness for cold winter evenings in front of the telly with the knitting needles.
www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Snowy February

2012-02-05T15:46:00.000Z

Introducing Sammy the snowman. He looks very superior doesn't he?

Impossible jigsaw?

2012-01-27T10:49:00.000Z

I usually have a jigsaw on the go, to fill those idle moments (idle moments, what idle moments???).
I do like a difficult one, that takes weeks to finish, and I think this is one of the most challenging ones I have done.

It is the 'Impossible' sunflowers design, and has taken me since Christmas to complete. So now I shall leave it to be admired for a few days, then break it up and on to the next one!

Free miniature knitting pattern for tiny teddy cardigan

2012-01-20T09:39:00.000Z

This pattern was published in the Knitting Pattern a Day Calendar 2012. It is also available from the website www.bitstobuy.co.uk as a kit with soft cotton tweed yarn and buttons as shown.

Cardigan for tiny teddy © Helen Cox 2010

Suitable for a 4 ½ to 5 inch tall teddy

Materials

Yarn: 100m of lace weight (2 ply)

Needles: US size 0 (2mm)

5 small buttons

Gauge

Not significant at this scale; any variation in size is not noticeable.

Finished measurements

The outfit is shown on a teddy of about 4½ inches (12cm) tall when standing, with a chest size of about 4 inches (11cm). As the garment is quite stretchy, the measurements are flexible and the cardigan will fit teddies smaller or larger than this.

Abbreviations

st = stitch; sts = stitches; k = knit; p = purl; st st = stocking stitch (one row k, one row p); k2tog = knit 2 sts together; p2tog = purl 2 sts together; sl1 = slip next st; psso = pass slipped st over last st worked; yo = bring yarn forward between needles then across right hand needle to make a stitch; [ ] = repeat instructions in brackets; inc = work twice into the next st.

Directions

Work the five basic cardigan pieces first, then continue by working across all five pieces.

Make the pieces in the following order:

Left front:

Cast on 18 sts. Work in k1, p1 rib for 4 rows.

Ss 10 rows. Break yarn and leave sts on needle.

First Sleeve:

Cast 24 sts onto the needle holding the left front. Work in k1, p1 rib for 4 rows.

Ss 10 rows. Break yarn and leave sts on needle.

Back:

Cast 36 sts onto the needle holding the left front and first sleeve. Work in k1, p1 rib for 4 rows.

Ss 10 rows. Break yarn and leave sts on needle.

Second Sleeve:

As First Sleeve.

Right front:

Cast 18 sts onto the needle holding the left front, first sleeve, back and second sleeve. Work in k1, p1 rib for 4 rows.

Ss 10 rows. Do not break yarn.

The five main pieces will now be on the same needle, with the right sides facing (120 sts). Continue with yoke, working across all five pieces.

Yoke:

Row 1: k16, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k20, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k32, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k20, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k16 (112 sts)

Row 2: p

Row 3: k15, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k18, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k30, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k18, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k15 (104 sts)

Row 4: p

Row 5: k14, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k16, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k28, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k16, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k14 (96 sts)

Row 6: p

Row 7: k13, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k14, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k26, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k14, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k13 (88 sts)

Row 8: p

Row 9: k12, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k12, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k24, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k12, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k12 (80 sts)

Row 10: p

Row 11: k11, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k10, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k22, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k10, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k11 (72 sts)

Row 12: p

Row 13: k10, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k8, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k20, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k8, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k10 (64 sts)

Row 14: p9, p2tog, p2tog, p6, p2tog, p2tog, p18, p2tog, p2tog, p6, p2tog, p2tog, p9 (56 sts)

Row 15: k8, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k4, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k16, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k4, sl1, k1, psso, k2tog, k8 (48 sts)

Work 2 rows in k1, p1 rib.

Bind off loosely in rib.

To make up:

Put right sides together and join the side and sleeve seams. Run in the ends and turn right sides out. Press gently with a cool iron, avoiding rib.

Make the front bands as follows:

With right side facing pick up and k25 sts evenly along one side of the front (this side will have the buttons, choose whether you want a man’s or lady’s side of fastening). Work in k1, p1 rib for 3 rows. Cast off loosely in rib.

With right side facing pick up and k25 sts evenly along the second side of the front. To make the buttonholes continue as follows:

Row 1: k1, [k1, p1] to last 2 sts, k2

Row 2: p2, [yarn round needle, p2tog, k1, p1, k1, yo, k2tog, p1, k1, p1] twice, yarn round needle, p2tog, p1

Row 3: k1, [k1, p1] to last 2 sts, k2

Bind off loosely in rib. Sew the buttons to the button band to match the buttonholes.

See my website for all colours of 2ply yarn, also 2mm needles and lots more patterns and kits.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Is it worth listing low value craft items on Ebay? What do you think?

2012-01-08T10:51:00.000Z

I have a tiny miniature knitting business selling yarn, patterns etc. I love knitting, especially the tiny jumpers in 1:12 scale for the dolls house, as it is very satisfying producing something so tiny and neat. It gives me something to do in the evening in front of the TV. I sell my little sweaters on Ebay and they go quite well, and I have built up a loyal customer base. I have tried selling on Folksy and Etsy but it doesn't seem to work for me, Ebay is the way to go. Incidently, selling has been harder this year, and I think the prices they go for are lower than a year or so ago, but that is a different story.
I have been reading the Ebay discussion boards lately, and it seems that Ebay is pushing sellers towards offering free P&P. OK I thought, that seems a reasonable idea for buyers and with the start of a new year perhaps I should give it a try, but I decided to sit down and do something I haven't really done before, which is completely cost out the item and profit.
First decision is whether to go for auction or buy-it-now. Customers probably prefer the latter as they don't have to wait to buy.
At buy-it-now my price is £4.99, as this seems to be what the market will bear. So listing fees (for one item) are 40p + 30p US visibility (a lot of my customers are in the US), final value fee 49p, and Paypal commission 38p. A (large size) stamp is 75p, and the envelope and plastic bag come to about 3p. Materials are not a lot, say 10p (unless it is a cardigan, as buttons cost me 9p each, so that is an extra 45p, but leave that aside for the moment). I print most of my postage at home and put items in the post box, but have not included printer ink, cost of sticky labels, shoe leather etc. So my expenses are £2.72, and my profit is £2.27. Each sweater takes me about one and a half to two hours to make, so you can work out the hourly rate yourself.
If I list more than one buy-it-now item the same, the costs go down slightly (if they sell!) as the listing fee is the same, and there are other factors which are impossible to work out, such as Ebay giving higher listing priorities to buy-it-nows which are selling more than one item. I don't get any free listings as I am registered as a business.
So what about listing as an auction? I start at £2.99, and sometimes they only go for this amount, although anything higher is a bonus of course. So at this price listing fees are 15p, final value fee 29p, and Paypal commission 30p. Stamp is 75p, envelope and plastic bag 3p, materials 10p. Total costs £1.62, profit £1.37.
I must be mad.
Postage rates will go up in April, so these profits will fall.
Can I really absorb postage costs, or do I carry on doing what everyone else does and try to pull back some fees? At the moment I charge actual postage plus packing materials, plus 50p 'handling charge'. But then I risk poor star ratings from customers who expect actual postage only, and too many poor star ratings and Ebay firstly put your listing at the bottom, then stop you selling.
If I increase the item cost I probably won't sell anything.
I really don't know what the answer is.
I carry on because I love doing the knitting, and I keep saying I am not in it for the money, it is just a hobby. But I am well aware that some crafters do not like this attitude, and by devaluing my own work and undercutting prices I am devaluing everyone elses work too.
What do you think?

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

FREE GIFT dolls house 1:12 scale miniature knitted hat and scarf in Jan!

2012-01-06T09:59:00.001Z

FREE GIFT

With all orders from the webpage in January I will be sending a free gift of a ready knitted hat and scarf set in 12th (1:12) scale, suitable for a small doll in the dolls house.

Design will vary. Offer ends January 31st 2012.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk for your miniature knitting supplies - needles, patterns, kits, yarn and tiny haberdashery, also ready knitted garments.

A happy miniature knitting Christmas!

2011-12-23T09:17:00.000Z

Tiny tiny Christmas knitted stockings for the dolls house.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Miniature knitting is not just for Christmas....

2011-12-11T14:07:00.000Z

I thought I would list some Christmassy miniature knitting. All these are dolls house size 12th scale, so the tea cosy is about one inch high, and the stockings and Santa toy are both about 1 1/2 inches high.

Perfect for the seasonal dolls house, or to accessorise other 6 inch dolls such as bjd, Kelly, Strawberry Shortcake and so on.

Patterns are available in the Christmas knitting book, from the webpage shop.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Seven things about me award

2011-11-30T11:48:00.000Z

Thanks Jennifer for tagging me for this award!

Here are seven things about me:

1   I have not eaten meat since 1985
2   I have been round the world twice
3   I have climbed a glacier in New Zealand with ropes and crampons
4   At the age of 17 I achieved the Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award and went to Buckingham Palace for the presentation by Prince Philip
6 I do conservation work with Horsham Green Gym and am proficient at dead hedging
7  I swim three times a week

I don't know 15 other bloggers to nominate so this is the best you get!

Easy cookie recipe

2011-11-25T09:49:00.000Z

SULTANA AND CINNAMON COOKIES

This is a very easy recipe and makes lovely chewy cookies. It can be varied in any number of ways, for example leave out the sultanas and cinnamon, and add some vanilla and chocolate drops. Or use chopped dried cranberries or dried apricots with white chocolate chunks. Be careful not to cook too long so that they stay soft and chewy.

40g butter

40g sugar

2 tablespoons golden syrup

90g self-raising flour

Pinch of cinnamon

75g sultanas

Beat together ingredients, adding sultanas last and stirring them in. Spoon into balls on a baking sheet and flatten slightly, leaving room to spread. Bake at 170C for about 10 minutes.

Yummy

Lalique - A labour of love

2011-11-15T16:13:00.000Z

So this is probably the most challenging knitting pattern I have attempted. I saw a knitted sample at the Knitting and Stitching Show, and decided I just had to have a go, and here it is, finally finished after many hours of sweat and possibly tears.

The yarn is a gorgeous cashmere and silk mixture, a pleasure to knit with, from Artisan Yarns. the pattern is Lalique, as found on Ravelry.

There are lots of issues with this pattern, as described by the other knitters who have tried it and listed comments on Ravelry, for example it needs to be made longer in the body, and the sleeves are a bit tight. If knitting again I would make several amendments to make it fit better, but it was so difficult to knit I am not sure I would want to attempt it again! Although in the end it only took me 2-3 weeks, but I am ready for a bit of more mindless knitting now.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Knitted baby Ugg type boots

2011-10-31T18:56:00.000Z

There are several lovely patterns on Ravelry for knitted baby bootees that look like Ugg boots. I used one of them and adapted it a bit to make these for Mia who is just about 5 months old. I think they turned out to be quite cute! Very easy to knit and I knitted in the contrast to save having to embroider it on at the end. I made another pair on slightly larger needles which fit Emily who is now 15 months old.

A good evening's work!

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Knitted tee-shirt rug with fringe

2011-10-25T15:25:00.000Z

I needed a new rug for the hallway and inspired by knitted tee versions I had seen on the web decided to have a go. I sort of made it up as I went along, but these are the basic instructions with quantities:

I took a chance on quantities and bought 75cm of cream jersey tee-shirt type fabric, 50cm of dark rose (115cm wide) and the largest size green tee-shirt I could find. It all came from the North Laines, Brighton UK, the fabric from the two shops there selling from rolls at a total cost of about £10, and the tee-shirt from the cheap shop selling them on rails at £2.

Of course you should really use old tee-shirts but I didn’t have the quantity or colours I wanted.

I cut the fabric into strips about one cm wide, by laying it out flat, rounding the corners slightly, then just cutting round the edges in a spiral to make one length which was wound into balls, the same with the tee. There are various methods on-line on how to cut a tee into strips, but just making the main part flat and cutting like this worked for me. The cream I cut as I went along, as I also cut some into a very narrow 3-4mm width. I used this with some of the solid colour stripes to ‘bleed’ one colour into the next.

The needles were size 15mm.

I cast on 45 stitches.

Stocking stitch 4 rows in cream, then 2 rows in green + the narrow cream, 2 rows green, 2 rows green + the narrow cream.

Stocking stitch 4 rows in cream, then 2 rows rose + the narrow cream, 2 rows rose, 2 rows rose + the narrow cream.

Continue in this way, you get the idea, finishing with 4 rows cream.

I didn’t bother sewing together any joins, just knotted and pushed through to the wrong side.

I intended to make a garter stitch border with mitred edges but wasn’t sure if I would have enough rose, so just crocheted around the edge (one row double crochet cream, two rows double crochet rose) until I ran out.

I cut the remaining rose into pieces to make the fringe, just enough if rather sparse!

The finished size was 72 x 75cm without the fringe.

I backed it with a piece of cream fabric and also sewed on some non-slip backing from the £1 shop.

Quite pleased with the result and really enjoyed making it.
www.bitstobuy.co.uk

12th scale dolls house heirloom blanket

2011-10-15T13:10:00.000Z

This week I have been tweaking one of my favourite (and most popular designs) to knit it in a finer one ply yarn. I had to make the panels a bit bigger and adjust the stitch counts so that it fitter together properly. I am pleased with the finished result though, the thinner yarn (it was previously 2 ply) looks much more in scale and drapes beautifully on a dolls house bed. Well worth the effort.

The bed in the photograph is 5" x 6" in size.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

The easiest pasta recipe in the world

2011-10-09T08:49:00.000Z

While I leave the main vegetable growing to him outdoors on the allotment, my job is to grow the tomatoes in the greenhouse at home. He usually grows Moneymaker outdoors, but due to disaster with blight spreading across the allotment over the last few years I think next year I will have to find space in the garden for a few plants. But I reserve the greenhouse for my favourite variety Sungold. This is a small orange cherry tomato with an intense sweet flavour that is simply delicious. I am just coming to the end of the summer glut. I wash and bag them as they are and freeze them loosely so that they can just be tipped out of bags for cooking. This is my favourite pasta recipe to use with the fresh or the frozen tomatoes.

Wash the tomatoes and put into an oven proof dish. Sprinkle with olive oil, garlic powder and dried Italian herbs. Put under the grill for a few minutes until they are soft and starting to char slightly.

Meanwhile cook some pasta. When ready, tip the pasta in a bowl and top with the tomatoes and lovely juices. Delicious!

Knitting and Stitching Show Alexander Palace

2011-10-08T16:52:00.000Z

Had a lovely day yesterday at the annual Knitting and Stitching Show in London, at Alexander Palace. It is very popular and well worth attending if you are into knitting or quilting. This is my second visit and I absolutely loved it. We went on Friday and I expect it is even more busy over the weekend.

I thought I would just throw out a few ideas in case you are thinking of attending.

I don't find it the easiest place to get to. I travelled by train from southern England to Victoria, then 30 minutes on the Piccadilly Line (changed at Green Park) to Wood Green tube station. From there it is a 30 minute walk uphill. The courtesy buses are about every 20 minutes, leaving from the road which runs perpendicular to the station exit, and expect long queues. However the W13 bus which goes from an adjacent stop does the same journey every 2-3 minutes, and the queues are fairly fast moving. You get free travel with a train Travelcard or an over 60 bus pass - I am not sure what the fare would be. Don't get off at the first Ally Pally stop for the ice rink, but the next one (don't worry the bus will be full of ladies of a certain age all going to the same place).
We got there about 11:30am and left about 4pm, which is about right. It is packed with people but did seem a bit quieter in the afternoon. It opens at 10am but leaving it that bit later avoided having to queue to get in.
We took a packed lunch and did what a lot of people were doing, that is sat down on the floor at the edge of the exhibition area to eat it. There are several lunch places around the edge of the main hall (all serving the same food at the same price) but they were packed. In the afternoon we managed to get a couple of seats at a table for a cup of tea but the service at the counter was very slow.
We tackled the main exhibition room first and if you are looking to buy supplies that is the best way to do it before you run out of steam. The smaller exhibition hall also has some suppliers but also a lot of exhibitors showing artworks etc, which we weren't that interested in, so we did that last. There is also another area on the way in, next to the main Cafe, which is mostly associations and charities.
If you have a budget, you might like to take cash and not a credit card. There is so much lovely stuff it is easy to get carried away. I heard some suppliers say they only took cash not cards for under £10 so take plenty of change.
I read somewhere it is a good idea to take a rolling case or shopping bag on wheels to put your purchases in, but I wouldn't like to try as those who had were not very popular in that huge crush of people. I did see a few pushchairs but it must have been very hard work to push them around and try to see anything. It may not be PC to say so, but ride on mobility scooters are also perhaps not a brilliant idea in that situation.
If you look around there are plenty of bargains to be had, eg end of lines, bin ends, large packs of branded quality yarns. But probably a good idea to make a list before you go of what you are looking for.
I bought some quite expensive luxury yarn to knit a cardigan which was on show, but when I got it home there was no label on it. I wished I had paid a bit more attention and asked more questions as now I am not sure of the composition or washing instructions, or even who I bought it from.

Don't be put off by all these negative comments, it is definitely worth going, just takes some planning!

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Christmas is coming

2011-09-23T08:54:00.000Z

I have tried most crafts in my time, but knitting is my favourite hobby and I just have to knit all the time. I long ago got tired of garments which never seemed to turn out just as I wanted, although I sometimes get tempted by socks and all the lovely patterns on Ravelry.

I have found my niche with miniature knitting (dolls house scale). I began designing little patterns, which I sold through my website, and developed the business into kits (so customers don't have to buy large amounts of yarn they won't use), books of patterns, yarn and needles suitable for my patterns, also some ready knitted garments.

Knitting isn't popular during the summer, and most of the business is done in the run-up to Christmas, especially with the little ready made sweaters. Cardigans and anything with colourwork are especially popular.

So at this time of year I spend the evening in front of the TV making little garments - I can usually do one in an evening. I sell them on ebay and they go quite well, although I know this is because I don't charge much for them. I justify it by saying that it is a hobby and I am not in it for the money, and hopefully it also provides some advertising for the webpage. And I love doing it!

This is a few I have around at the moment

Did I mention that this is just a few???

Achievement of the week

2011-09-20T14:20:00.000Z

I am so pleased with myself. Last week I was up in London and visited St Pauls cathedral. I went up to the Whispering Gallery and then thought, what the heck, I can do the rest, so ended up climbing right to the top. The last bit is a bit scary, with tight open spiral staircases between the inner and outer dome of 150 steps, so you can see exactly where you have come from and where you are going, with a lot of space around. I'm not brilliant at heights but it had to be done. And at 61 years old I feel it was quite an achievement and not something I will do again. Thanks Liz for being patient and waiting for me!

Dress up your dolls and dolls house for Halloween

2011-09-09T08:17:00.000Z

Anna is selling lots of knitted clothes and related items for Halloween, suitable for bjd but also some will fit dolls house dolls too. Check out her store at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/beepbeep?ref=pr_shop_more

Hallowe'en knitting patterns for bjd

2011-09-03T13:14:00.000Z

Anna has just published her new book of knitting patterns for tiny bjd, Lati Yellow and Pukifee size.

they are lovely seasonal patterns perfect for dressing a tiny bjd for Hallowe'en, including pumpkin, a pumpkin hat, witches hat, cloak and treat bag! Pretty and very unusual. Available now from http://www.etsy.com/shop/beepbeep?ref=pr_shop_more

Christmas is here!

2011-08-15T20:41:00.000Z

My new book of Christmas patterns for the doll's house is now available.

All new miniature knitting patterns for the holiday season, easy to knit using 2 ply yarn and 2 mm knitting needles.

Patterns included are:

Wreath decoration
Garland
Christmas stockings
Father Christmas outfit
Mother Christmas outfit
Santa hat
Pixie outfit
Toddler dress
Child's sweater and pleated skirt
Adult sweater
Santa toy
Stained glass windows blanket
Christmas pudding tea cosy

Available from ebay or the webpage, or contact me for details.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

New collection of bjd knitting patterns for the summer

2011-08-06T15:52:00.000Z

Anna's new e-booklet of bjd knitting patterns is now available:

Absolutely gorgeous patterns for the summer for your tiny bjd, Lati Yellow size.
Available from her on Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/listing/76957837/summer-sun-knitting-pattern-ebook-for

And I believe she is currently working on the winter collection, so more patterns to come soon.

www.bitstobuy.co.uk

Coming soon!

2011-08-02T08:16:00.000Z

Almost finished my next book - this is the Christmas collection. Lots of seasonal dolls house knitting patterns for the winter holiday season, including garments, decorations and more.
Just putting in the final touches and hopefully it will be available within the next month or so in plenty of time to get the dolls house ready for December.
Here is a preview

Mia

2011-06-18T19:32:00.000Z

Been a bit busy the last couple of weeks, welcome to baby Mia

Lots of knitting patterns for bjd, lati yellow, pukifee and other tiny dolls

2011-05-14T08:28:00.000Z

I have decided to concentrate on dolls house scale knitting patterns and have passed over designing tiny bjd patterns to my daughter Anna. She has so many of her own lovely ideas that it was a shame to be in competition and she understands the collection of these tiny dolls, and appropriate designs, much better than I do.
She is putting together several lovely collections of designs, and the first booklet is now available.

More details can be found on her blog
http://beepbeepdesigns.blogspot.com/
She is selling it as an ebook on Folksy
http://www.etsy.com/listing/73897449/brilliant-basics-knitting-pattern-ebook
also on Ravelry
http://www.ravelry.com/
Where her designer's name is JaneUK
Here's looking forward to the next collection!

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Not happy

2011-05-04T10:49:00.000Z

I became the victim of internet fraud this week when I found someone had hacked into my Paypal account (how??? only I know the password and I am very cautious and never respond to spoofs etc, can only assume there was some sort of inside job???). A bit of research finds that it is quite common - three transactions very close together on my account transferring money to Skype, a total of about $44. I have never used Skype and don't have an account with them. It appears that a prepayment account was set up without my knowledge (a sort of Direct Debit). I was fortunate in that I discovered it very quickly and Paypal have refunded the money within a couple of days. BUT the really annoying thing is that Paypal have now restricted my account. I can still take money from customers but can't remove or transfer money, even refunds, or do anything else. To get back on track I have got to supply Paypal with all sorts of information including photo ID, bank statements etc. I haven't yet worked out how to do this without having a scanner to email them copies or access to a fax to send them that way (the only way they will accept it), and it will cost me time and money.
I thought it was worth posting this so it will warn others of this scam which is not unusual. Keep a close eye on emails from Paypal about debits, and check your account regularly.

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

New haberdashery on the webpage - buttons and more in 12th scale

2011-04-14T15:00:00.001Z

I have listed some new haberdashery items on the webpage - these are all in 1:12 scale so are suitable for dolls house (for example Heidi Ott), and other small dolls such as tiny bjd (Hujoo Baby, American Girl, Rosen Lied Monday child, Lati Yellow, Pukifee, Bobobie Tiny, Ellery Kish, PukiPuki, Lati White, Yoshi).

I have buttons in lots of colours and sizes from 2mm to 4mm, snap fasterners (press studs), hooks and eyes, and tiny buckles.

These items are also suitable for use when making garments for other 5 -7" dolls such as Pippa, Dawn, Bobobie, Kelly, Ginny and Ginger, and Strawberry Shortcake, or for larger dolls such as Barbie and Sindy.

All available now on the webpage

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

New miniature knitting pattern book

2011-04-09T14:58:00.000Z

Now available - my second miniature knitting pattern book!

'EASY TO KNIT MINIATURE KNITTING PATTERNS for the doll's house in 1:12 scale BOOK 2'
by Helen Cox.

This book presents over 20 knitting patterns specially designed to be easy and quick to knit, for new and experienced knitters, with designs suitable for both the miniature collector or for a child's first doll's house. Although intended for doll's house scale, many of the garments will also fit other 5 -7" dolls such as Pippa, Dawn, Bobobie, Kelly, Ginny and Ginger, and bjd such as Lati, and Pukifee (with the exception of jumpers which won't fit over a head larger than 8cm around).
These are brand new designs not available elsewhere, suitable for adult (5-7" tall) and child (4" tall) dolls.
Designs include: Baby dresses and hooded shawl, toddler dress, girl's pinafore and dress, child's cardigan and trousers, cabled pullover, lace blanket and cushions, yoked sweater, yoked cardigan, cot bedding, patchwork blanket, cane effect conservatory furniture, shopping bag, Christmas stocking, hot water bottle cover, and beret.
All the designs are made using readily available materials, with a manageable 2mm knitting needle size and 2 ply yarn, and are very quick to produce.
I have been designing miniature knitting patters for many years, and have gained international recognition with many projects published online and in the doll's house press. As well as these new designs not available elsewhere, this publication is packed with hints and tips, suggested pattern variations, and instructions on how to convert the patterns to 1:24 scale.
Softcover booklet printed with full colour photographs, size 6 x 8", 32 pages.
Available NOW from the webpage
http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Back from holiday

2011-04-03T13:05:00.000Z

Just back from holiday and busy catching up with bitstobuy. After a little break I have listed loads of things on ebay again and will soon be putting some new items up on the webpage - watch this space!

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/bitstobuy/m.html?_trksid=p4340.l2562

Here are some of the things I have listed at the moment:

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Easy to knit miniature knitting patterns for the dolls house

2011-02-27T10:34:00.000Z

My first booklet of knitting patterns for the dolls house continues to sell well, and I have had many kind comments about how easy the patterns are to knit and the good results. This collection has lots of garments for adult and child dolls, and furnishings such as bedcovers, baskets, tiny toys and tea cosy - over 25 patterns in total.
But my brain is buzzing all the time with new patterns and I have so many that more books will be following - watch this space.
I am also thinking about a publication for tiny bjd patterns when I can find the time!
The book is available from the website
http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Knitting patterns for Strawberry Shortcake

2011-02-21T21:50:00.000Z

Yet another doll who fits my patterns :)
These are pictures of Strawberry Shortcake in two of my garments, kindly sent to me from Raquel in Spain:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25718230@N02/5464936870/sizes/m/in/photostream/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25718230@N02/5392822222/

Photos are copyright msrakel

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Hujoo Baby pictures

2011-02-21T16:33:00.000Z

One of my customers has sent me these lovely photos of her Hujoo Baby in a couple of my jumpers. This is a 10cm tall doll, so they are a bit oversized, but still look great! The socks and shoes are mine too.

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Dolls house and bjd knitting patterns measurements

2011-02-16T15:28:00.000Z

There are so many tiny dolls out there and I am being asked all the time which dolls my patterns fit. It can be difficult to know without having the doll in front of me, but I have spent some time gathering together measurements and am fairly confident now about sizing. My own doll is a Doll Family JoJo (how I would love to have a Lati Yellow) which is a fairly average tiny doll size. As knitted garments are so stretchy anyway they adapt fairly well to most tiny doll sizes. All my basic patterns will fit 5 to 6" (13 to 15 cm) dolls house dolls including Heidi Ott, also Pippa, Dawn and Kelly. Those patterns which are either specially designed for larger heads, or have a front opening such as a cardigan will fit 5 to 7" bjds (13 to 18 cm) such as American Girl, Rosen Lied Monday child, Lati Yellow, Pukifee, Bobobie Tiny, Ellery Kish and JoJo. They fit but look oversized on smaller 4 to 5" (10 to 13 cm) PukiPuki, Lati White, Yoshi, and Hujoo baby, although I have adapted patterns and knitted specially for these sizes. I also have some patterns for dolls house child dolls such as the Heidi Ott children, which are 4" (10cm) tall.
Hope that helps!

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Missed a few things

2011-02-15T20:18:00.000Z

So while I was busy knitting and not blogging I missed a few items of news.
So not forgetting Harry:

And Emily:

AND another wedding:

It's been a busy couple of years.

http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Don't they just make you smile?

2011-02-12T16:17:00.003Z

Lovely buttons for knitters

2011-02-12T16:14:00.000Z

My daughter has just started a shop on Folksy selling buttons and ribbons. Do have a look, she has chosen some really fun and unusual designs! Ideal for that special knit or child outfit.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/windthebobbinup
She sells her ready made lovely crafted items at
http://www.folksy.com/shops/beepbeep

I am busy working on a second book of knitting patterns for dolls house size dolls, more information soon :)
Meanwhile all my usual patterns, kits and 2 ply miniature knitting yarns are available on the webpage
http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/

Helen

New on the webpage: ready made garments for dolls house and bjd

2011-02-09T10:54:00.000Z

Due to popular demand :) I am now including ready made tiny garments on the webpage:
http://www.bitstobuy.co.uk/readymade/readymade.php

Some of these are miniatures for the dolls house, but those which have an opening will also fit small bjd such as Lati, Pukifee and other small dolls up to 7 inches tall.

My jacket with a fluffy mohair edging is particularly popular as it is ideal for an older dolls house doll.

I hope to have more garments up there soon.

bjd Lati knitted duffle coat

2011-02-05T12:39:00.000Z

Knitting patterns for bjd - Lati, puki and similar

2011-02-05T12:17:00.003Z

Gosh it's been a while but decided to resurrect the blog.
I have been very busy knitting and designing patterns, and just lately seem to have been knitting more for bjd (ball jointed dolls). It took me a while to cotton-on, but my customers have told me that the dolls house size also fits lots more dolls, especially the collector bjd tiny dolls. Some other dolls that my garments fit include:
Lati Yellow, Puki and Pukifee, Bobobie tiny, Kelly, Pippa Dawn, Ginny, Ginger, Amanda Jane. And yesterday I was asked to knit for Hujoo Baby which is one I hadn't come across before. As the garments are stretchy they seem to fit any 5 to 7" ish dolls. The only difference between dolls house and the bjd's is the size of the head, but I have sorted out now how to make a big head opening so that is not a problem! My own bjd which I use for sizing and as a model is Doll Family Jojo - not the most attractive and cute I admit and I really must get her a better wig, but she works hard for me posing for photos!
I am always keen to hear of other named dolls - I am trying to collect measurements but must have missed some so any information would be helpful.
Last week I made a tiny duffle coat with hood, and Fimo toggles. Turned out quite cute!

Too busy knitting to blog

2008-12-02T17:56:00.001Z

Lots of baby things to knit :)

Pretty in pink

2008-09-03T19:47:00.002Z

Knitting has taken a back seat lately, been busy travelling up the motorway to see number one grandaughter.

She is such a sweetie!

Been a bit busy lately

2008-09-01T15:40:00.000Z

Thanks Anna!
http://beepbeepdesigns.blogspot.com

Baby knitting

2008-07-30T10:09:00.003Z

So now my knitting projects are all concerned with making baby things. I have finished two pushchair blankets for expected babies 1 and 2, and the next project is a big clown doll, then some baby cardigans and jumpers. I might be brave and have a go at the famous Zimmerman 'surprise' baby jacket, hopefully with some assistance from beeptwo, who has made one with the help of copious notes along the way.

One big plug

2008-06-27T14:42:00.002Z

Not the sort you put in sinks or into the electrical socket, or even in your ears.
http://www.enlightenmentthebook.co.uk

If you want a really funny read for the summer, this book will provide that and is a cracking page-turner too. Available from Amazon
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Enlightment-Cox-Thomas-P/dp/1843863081/ref=sr_1_27?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1214577893&sr=1-27

This week I have mostly been knitting.......

2008-06-12T11:12:00.002Z

.....dishcloths.

They are really quick to knit and lovely to use - much better than those blue cloths which soon get yucky. These can be thrown in the washing machine and kept nice and clean. A ball of dishwash craft cotton makes about one and a half, but I found some cotton on a cone in my stash which works just as well hence the multicoloured design!

There are millions of dishcloth patterns on the web, I just liked this one as it was easy to knit and looks quite nice on the sink.

Long time no blog - sorry, have been massive disruptions in the house (it's a long story and a big insurance claim) but gradually getting back to normal.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

2008-04-06T10:48:00.001Z

Just felt like adding a complete contrast to the last photo. Difficult to believe it was taken 5 weeks later!

Long time gone...

2008-03-07T20:37:00.004Z

Been away for ages! Had a lovely holiday which involved Hong Kong, New Zealand and the Cook Islands. Ready to start knitting again and getting back to listing on Ebay. And now with a grandchild on the way I have a whole new lot of knitting to plan! Just need to get over the jet lag...

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T14:25:00.001Z

Happy New Year to everyone and Happy Knitting.

Me and him outdoors are off to the other side of the world for a little while, so will be out of touch for a few weeks. Bitstobuy will be in capable hands though! See you in the Spring....

Woops what happened there?

2007-12-06T14:46:00.000Z

I don't know why tiger got cut in half.

I have been doing some crocheting!

2007-12-06T14:32:00.000Z

I have bought a lovely new book with crochet motifs in and have been having a go at some of them. I found that I could follow a pattern after all, I know the basic stitches and techniques, although I find I get on just as well by looking at the picture of the finished motif. I don't think I could write a pattern though, I will leave that to someone else!

The tiger motif is just the right size for a dolls house rug. I love the way the crochet stitches give a ragged look, just like tiger fur. There are all sorts of possibilities based on this one....

I found a lovely lacy motif which I have put together to make a dolls house bedspread. It took quite a long time to make but looks really pretty now it is finished.

Perhaps I have gone through my crochet phase for the moment; my first love is still knitting after all. I have now started a Rowan wool jumper so that will keep me busy for a while.

Feed the world!

2007-11-10T12:42:00.000Z

And increase your vocabulary at the same time!

2007-10-23T11:34:00.000Z

Just had a pattern accepted for the Knitting-Pattern-A-Day calendar for 2009. This publication is great, gives lots of ideas for new designs and ways of using up spare yarn.
Otherwise still knitting as usual, no big projects on the go at the moment so just filling spare time with knitting tiny bits from my patterns to go onto ebay. Have been doing a bit of crocheting too, making tiny blankets, but my crocheting skills are limited. I love doing granny squares type though where you just keep going round and round with trebles. I can keep that up for hours.
We are off for an autumn break to Amsterdam at the weekend, the weather apparently is mostly cold! Hope to see lots of Van Gogh and canals no doubt.

This week I have mostly been.........

2007-09-02T17:07:00.000Z

........knitting tiny toys. Had an order for ALL my toy patterns to be knitted. This lot are off to Spain.

New 'I Love Knitting Shop'!

2007-08-10T18:58:00.000Z

After not very good service from the supplier of my last on-line I Love Knitting shop, I have now set up a new one! Apologies that the link from the webpage has been broken for some time, but hopefully all is in order now.
Otherwise all is good, enjoying the warm weather at last even if it is not so good for knitting. One of the lovely ladies at my knitting club came up with a new idea for me which involves a completely new range of patterns to design, so I am working hard on that. Still at the thinking stage but hope to have something to show soon.
Our knitting club is known as 'Knit and Natter' and we meet on alternate Thursdays at the South Lodge Hotel, Brighton Road, Lower Beeding (near Horsham). We are a thriving club of about 30 members, with about 8 turning up on a typical evening. We enjoy sharing ideas and patterns, and have a good chat in very pleasant surroundings, overlooking the Sussex Downs. I am the only knitter who works in the mini-scale, but other members produce some very inventive knitting, with lots of colours and beautiful textures. I always find it a great inspiration. More details on request if anyone is interested in joining!
I have been quite busy selling patterns, and am finding that my latest idea of selling 1 and 2 ply yarn on Ebay seems to be taking off. It is not easy to find such thin yarn in the shops, but I am able to buy in bulk and sell in small quantities for the mini-knitter. Just need to keep that kitten well out of the way when I am winding!
No listing on Ebay for a couple of weeks though. We are away in a couple of weeks time, then I am on Jury Service for a possible couple of weeks. I am told that Jury Service can involve a lot of waiting around, will I be the first person to take along my knitting?

Lots of new jumpers

2007-07-26T20:07:00.000Z

I have been busy designing new jumpers in 1:12 dolls house scale. These are kits, providing all the yarn and haberdashery required, so no need to buy lots of different colours. My favourite is the rabbit!

I have learned a valuable new lesson this week...

2007-07-07T16:57:00.000Z

...kittens and wool don't mix. There should be at least two closed doors between a new kitty and any project involving knitting needles and wool.

Latest magazine article

2007-06-06T09:22:00.000Z

I received my preview copy of 'Dolls House Magazine' today, with my latest article. This is a general description of miniature knitting, with lots of hints and tips to get the beginner started. They have taken some lovely photos of my work and hopefully this will inspire lots of new knitters!

What a strange find

2007-05-17T14:15:00.000Z

So today (as it wasn't raining for a change) I spent the whole day in the garden. I prepared all the borders and put out the bedding plants, so now all ready for summer. I was pulling up an old plant which was spilling over the wall, when I noticed something round just sitting on top of the wall. I was going to throw it away but on closer look it turned out to be a coin.

I have looked on the internet (whatever you have got someone is selling one on ebay) and it turns out to be a French coin dating from the 1790's, minted in Paris - not a very good photo, it is much clearer in real life. On the back it says Cinq Centimes L'An .... (unfortunately the year is obliterated but it seems the number usually varies from 5 to 7 ish).

So how did it end up in my garden, and what was it doing just sitting on the wall? Presumably it was pushed up by a plant and left for me to find. I wonder who was the last person to hold it? Could it have been dropped by someone at the private school which was on this site many years ago?

How strange.

New pattern

2007-04-24T16:20:00.000Z

This is the new bedspread pattern I have developed. I have done it as a kit, with all the yarn included, in both a pink and a blue version. There is enough yarn left over to make a matching rug.

It looks very effective when finished, quite an intricate pattern, but once you get in to it not too difficult.

I have been to see a commercial printer this week and my brochures are now in their system, should be available in a lovely glossy version in a couple of weeks. Will make life much easier for me, and stop me cursing at the computer printer quite so often when it misfeeds or prints one side on the wrong side of another! (Why do printers work perfectly when you are in the room but misbehave as soon as you go to make a cup of tea?).

I will be having another article printed soon, which normally provokes a rash of requests for brochures, so I will be all ready to go!

Otherwise bitstobuy has been fairly quiet the last couple of weeks. Perhaps no-one feels like knitting when the weather is so nice and warm.

I am feeling fairly patterned-out now, but still have a few ideas in the pipeline. Time to catch up on all that other knitting and refresh the brain cells.

Oh and if Mrs D Lovatt happens to read this - thanks for your order and cheque, but there was no delivery address on the order form and I can't trace you! I haven't cashed the cheque of course, just hoping that you realise and get in touch.

More wedding photos

2007-04-15T15:31:00.000Z

Beeptwo is doing a sterling job on her blog in showing more wedding photos; she has now got some of the Indian ceremony up there. The official photos of the English ceremony are available on the photographers site for about another 6 weeks I believe.
I have taken the plunge and signed up for etsy.com, so have now opened a shop to see how it goes. There are loads of lovely hand made things on this site, there are some very talented people out there. Will be interesting to see if I have any sales. I am also thinking now about supplying my patterns via etsy and ebay by attachment to an email, so that customers can download them instantly. It will mean that there is no P&P to pay for the customer, and it will save me printing costs, so should be of benefit all round. I will have to change the format of the leaflets from Publisher to Word, but apart from the time it will take, it shouldn't be too difficult. Another project to keep me busy.
Otherwise I am knitting up my new bedspread pattern, more news soon.

What a wonderful wedding weekend

2007-04-12T21:39:00.000Z

So beepone and her man are now husband and wife. Not many Mums and Dads get to see their daughter get married twice in one weekend!

Wedding 1 was at Coombe Abbey near Warwick on Saturday 7th April. The sun shone and everything was perfect.

Wedding 2 was at the Hilton Coventry on Sunday 8th April and was perfect all over again. Can't wait to see all the photos and DVDs!

Congratulations to Jennifer and Ram and well done to everyone who managed to stay the course for what was a long and tiring weekend!

2007-04-01T17:19:00.000Z

Me and him outdoors had a lovely walk this afternoon. It was blowy but sunny and quite dry underfoot so a very pleasant outing - we did 2 1/2 hours round and about Horsham. Him is busy photographing the countryside around to put images up on geograph, a very interesting project!

More new patterns

2007-03-31T14:46:00.000Z

Have been quite busy this week finalising some new miniature knitting patterns (ie knitting them over and over to proof the instructions). I have an outfit for a lady doll, consisting of a cardigan, skirt and top, with instructions on how to make a pearl necklace to go with it.

I have also finished a pattern for a belted car coat, hat and trousers. This one developed from a design I was asked to make for a customer in America, who was making a 'bag' lady doll!

I have nearly finished a new bedspread miniature pattern kit in 1:12 scale which I am quite pleased with, more on that soon. I need to knit a couple of versions and they do take quite a while to make.

I am hoping to have some more work published this summer in one or more of the dolls house magazines - more information when I have the final details!

I have enquired this week about having my brochure professionally printed. At the moment I print them off myself on the computer but I get through so many print cartridges! Not to say the frustration when the printer misfeeds or I manage to get the wrong page on the back of another. It may not be any more expensive than buying print cartridges to have the finished brochure printed, but I think the art work to set it up might be prohibitive. I will have to think about it very hard to see if I can justify the outlay, and also have to think that as I update it with new patterns quite often it could go out of date. I have had some customers think that because my leaflets are self-printed on non-glossy paper, that I have photocopied someone else's work, or that they are somehow not 'official' patterns. I can assure everyone that they are all my own work, and they do cost me a significant amount to print! It is not possible to have every leaflet professionally printed as I don't sell enough of each design to justify the cost.

I have had a lot of hits on the webpage asking for a copy of the brochure, so it was obviously of use adding the button to be able to do this. Strange how sometimes I get requests coming from the same area (I had a spate of orders from Tyne and Wear). It makes me wonder if I have had some publicity I don't know about, or if I have been mentioned at a Dolls House Club. The link on the webpage to the 'I love knitting' is down at the moment - the external site has undergone some changes and we haven't yet been able to pin it down.

So next weekend we have the big wedding(s) of the year, when beepone and Ram finally get it together! I have got the big hat(s) and the chocolate fountain is ordered, so nothing holding us back now. Might need a few days to recover before I am up to blogging (or knitting) again!

My new stash!

2007-03-14T19:20:00.000Z

I have got around to sorting out my new stash of yarn which I bought in New Zealand. Firstly, I found a wonderful knitting shop in Auckland (no web page unfortunately) which sold lovely pure wool local yarn made by Touch. The first one shown here is a hand painted DK Touch yarn made from 65% pure wool, 35% possum. Possum is very light and very warm, so I am told that my 3 skeins of 100g will be plenty to knit a sweater. Possum are seen as a pest in New Zealand ('buy possum, save a tree') and the fur spins well with wool to make a lovely soft yarn. Anything bought ready made with possum is very expensive, but this cost me about £40, which is not an excessive amount for such a lovely yarn. The next one is also a handpainted DK Touch yarn, this one is 100% Super Fine Kid mohair, and again 3 skeins, for a total of about £30, should make a beautiful sweater.

Whilst driving along a typically empty New Zealand main road in the middle of nowhere, I suddenly spotted at the side of the road a largish warehouse with WOOL painted in big letters on the roof. I yelled STOP!!! and we found ourselves at the Wool Company. This was a big shed with sheep in the back field absolutely stashed full of beautiful 100% wool yarns and garments. They seemed to process the raw wool there, sending it away for spinning and dying. I was in heaven! They had every colour, every weight, both pure wool and possum mixtures. I really didn't know what to buy, but being restricted in what I could bring back, treated myself to some bright red DK. This was about £4.50 for a 200g skein. They do ship all over the world and the shipping rates are not unreasonable, so I might even think about ordering online.

By now I was banned from buying any more, but we just happened to stop at a little cafe cum craft workshop at the side of the road, and I spotted this bag of mixed pure wool in eight toning shades, for about £3 for 200g. I haven't opened it yet to see if it is spun for knitting, but it may need some attention before it can be used. Haven't yet decided what to do with it but I am seeing some sort of patchwork sweater with a linking colour. Need to think about that, but I am sure I have got enough yarn to keep me going for a while yet, so no hurry!!

Can't wait to get knitting.

Have a huge stash of wool!

2007-03-06T17:41:00.000Z

So we are back from our big adventure on the other side of the world, and I have reduced the stocks of wool in New Zealand by a fair amount, with help from airline baggage handlers internationally.
Just catching up on the sleep and wondering what to knit first. Will post piccies of some of the wonderful yarn I have acquired soon!
bitstobuy was left in the capable hands of beepone, and has been ticking over while we were away. I have some new ideas for patterns so hope also to get onto those soon. So much to knit, so little time.
I have opened a new shop on the website, selling knitting related items; see the 'I Love Knitting' button on the home page. There are lots of things for all those knitting fanatics out there, including t-shirts and tote bags!
Back soon

Two warm feet

2007-01-07T22:44:00.000Z

Very pleased with my socks! They are lovely and toasty and just right for this cold wet weather. Can't wait to start the next pair.
Quite a lot of yarn left over though. I suspect if I knit them with shorter leg bits I might even get two pairs out of the next ball. I shall have to do some weighing of knitted pieces to see how the yarn will pan out.
Am thinking that I could use some of my 2 ply yarn double to knit socks as that would give the equivalent of 4 ply to use with the same sock pattern. Then they could be in all kinds of stripey patterns as I have got most colours.
Signing out for a while now as am off for an extended period; back at the end of February. Leaving bitstobuy in capable hands so orders (apart from ready knitted items) will be going out as normal.

A pair of socks for a one-legged woman

2006-12-22T11:05:00.000Z

So sock number one is finished. It is very warm and cosy and I now have one warm foot. Not too difficult to knit and great fun. I found I needed far fewer rounds than the pattern said (40 not 48) for the foot, and if I was knitting another pair I would probably also put fewer rounds in the leg bit, and a longer rib.

I was disappointed to find that part way through the ball of wool there was a knot, then later on another one. A piece of yarn had been added in which destroyed the sequence of the dying, so I had to undo the knitting and take that bit out, and find the sequence again by discarding part of the ball, then graft the two ends together (you can't have knots in socks, it would be uncomfortable!) Not what you expect when this sock yarn is quite expensive to buy. Perhaps I am just being fussy, but I wanted my pattern to be consistent. When I start the next sock, I shall have to wind some off the ball to find the same place in the sequence to start knitting, as I shall want them to look approximately the same - although from photos I have seen of knitted pairs most knitters don't bother.

Also with the next pair I shall try to get the black and white band to go on each side of the foot shaping as I think this would look better.

Sorry to beepthree for spilling the beans on sock knitting and spoiling your Christmas present surprise :( grovel grovel. I will buy you chocolate to make it up to you, promise.

More about socks

2006-12-16T14:17:00.000Z

The sock is coming along just fine! It is a long time since I have knitted socks and had forgotten the fiddley bit required to turn the heel, but I have now done it and am on the home straight along the foot. Really enjoying doing it and this looks like the start of a new obsession. Just hope I will wear them! Looks useful for padding around the house in or for wearing with my walking boots though. I am using short lengths of blue yarn for markers but will have to make some better ones or invest in a pair, as I keep losing the yarn ones. It looks as though there will be a fair bit of yarn left over so I may end up making lots of children or baby socks too. Beepone has caught the bug too and wants me to teach her how to make some over Christmas, and a little bird tells me beeptwo might have a relevant Christmas present. Beepone is willing but not a great knitter, the only completed project to date is a garter knit scarf with designer holes, so socks might be a challenge, but beeptwo is not far behind me in the knitting game (and is much better than me at crochet). Anyone know of a good supply of sock yarn at bargain prices?

Socks!

2006-12-14T19:59:00.000Z

Now that the preChristmas knitting rush is over, I thought I would like a change from miniature knitting, so I have decided to join the big craze of the moment, and knit some socks! I have bought a ball of Opal sock yarn and have started the first few rounds. The yarn is fantastic, lovely to work with, feels really soft and knits up beautifully. I can't wait to see the pattern that comes out at the end. This will be a long term project for just when I get knitting withdrawal symptoms, so I may not be wearing them 'til next winter. Might be the start of a whole range of socks though. Will keep my blog updated with progress.

Been really busy lately

2006-11-18T12:28:00.000Z

Gosh been so busy lately knitting tiny jumpers; my needles are red hot. Ebay sales are going really well the last few weeks which I guess is the run up to Christmas - see my current auctions .
Also the latest publication of my patterns in the recent mini-knitting supplement of Dolls House and Miniatures Scene prompted lots of requests for brochures and orders.
It is beginning to quieten down a bit now, and hopefully after Christmas will not be so hectic, as I am away for a few weeks. The business will be left in the capable hands of hubby and the rest of the family staying at home though, so apart from not being able to supply ready knitted items as quickly as usual, orders will be sent out as normal. And I will still be reading and answering email.
Had a day in London this week and drooled over the lovely yarns and knitting patterns in Liberty's. If only there was time to knit them all :)

Sweaters and cardigans

2006-10-17T12:57:00.000Z

The last few weeks I have been really busy designing a whole sweater collection. I have also cracked the designs for yoked sweaters and cardigans, which I am very pleased with! All my pattern test pieces end up on ebay, and just lately they are being snapped up, so I have obviously found something that collectors really like. I guess it is coming up to Christmas and that they make good presents. So now that I am confident with the cardigan pattern, the next one will be a twin set with pearls.
If you are at the Pudsey fair in November, be sure to check out Julie Bell's dolls at Bellabelle Dolls , they are fabulous. And you may notice a few bitstobuy knitting patterns on her stall as well (thanks Julie)!

More patterns published

2006-10-03T10:39:00.000Z

This month's edition of Dolls House and Miniature Scene (November) has a fabulous supplement packed full of knitting and crochet patterns for the dolls house, including several by me! Available from WHSmith now. Remember that I can also supply any yarn or needles needed, and now I am also able to supply miniature haberdashery items such as buttons and buckles, so that everything needed to complete my patterns is available from the webpage.
Very busy again following the publicity, but still finding time to work on new patterns - more news soon!

Thanks Fernando

2006-09-05T19:06:00.000Z

Thanks to Fernando in Granada for sending my photographs of my aran jumper and hippy outfit on his dolls!

Have you had a problem ordering from the webpage?

2006-09-02T08:21:00.000Z

Sometimes I am contacted by customers who have been unable to get an order through the webpage. When this happens I check the ordering system carefully, and my webmaster checks the programming, but it works for us. I don't know why some people can sometimes have a problem and just wonder if it is to do with individual computer settings. If it happens to you, please send me an email to sales@bitstobuy.co.uk and I will send a brochure and order form to order by mail.
Just wanted to emphasise that I can't take credit or debit card numbers by email or on the 'phone; this is for your own protection as I can't provide a secure link. Payments made in this way through the webpage are handled by a secure third party, Paypal, and customers are linked to their site after sending in an order. You can pay here in two ways - if you already have your own Paypal account you can transfer funds from there, but if you do not, you do not have to open a Paypal account. This is not transparently clear on their site (after all they want your business!), but by clicking the link to say you do not have an account, you can pay in the normal way with a credit or debit card, and it doesn't cost you anything. Many shopping sites on the internet use this system and it works well. Of course if you choose to send a cheque or PO instead I am more than happy as I have to pay commission to Paypal!
If I get an order through the webpage without payment, I usually sit on it for a couple of weeks in case payment arrives through the post, but after that I will contact you by email or 'phone in case there is a problem.
Hope that helps!

Paris in the summer

2006-08-26T15:37:00.000Z

Just got back from 4 days in Paris to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary (we went there for our honeymoon). It was lovely, although not the best time of year to go, as of course a large number of restaurants and shops are closed in August for the annual holidays, and Versailles was heaving with tourists. Still it was a lovely break from the day-to-day, and I didn't take my knitting!

Now we have another wedding to look forward to, as beepone and her man have booked the date for April 7th at Coombe Abbey. A busy few months coming up!

Another pattern published, this time for an easy to knit mini knitting basket and contents. When I get round to it, I will write this one up as a leaflet, probably as an extended version.

Sing along if you know the words

2006-08-11T17:54:00.000Z

A song for all us chemists/pharmacists

Here it is:

2006-07-27T13:18:00.000Z

Another pattern published

2006-07-27T13:12:00.000Z

My pattern for a lacy bedcover and bolster is published today in Dolls House and Miniature Scene. Nice to see I got a mention on the front cover! This is one of my most popular patterns, and is easy to knit on 2mm needles with crochet cotton.

Webpage back to normal I hope

2006-07-27T13:10:00.000Z

My webpage ordering system seems to be functioning as it should again, thanks webmaster Anna.

Ow my toe hurts

2006-07-24T11:38:00.000Z

So on Friday I did what everyone does all the time and stubbed my toe on a table leg. No way was I going to brave the nearest A&E over a weekend (15 miles away) so left it to get better but byMonday decided to go to the local Minor Injuries Unit. Yes I have fractured it. Now find myself in the hospital system with it all strapped up and an appointment at the fracture clinic. And a good excuse to sit with my feet up (keep off it for at least 4 weeks they told me!). Good job it's not a finger, at least I can knit. OK, let's have the sympathy vote now.....

Problem with webpage orders

2006-07-23T20:02:00.000Z

Having a bit of a frustrating weekend because there is a problem with my webpage. I am getting payments for orders through from Paypal but the actual order itself is not coming through to my mailbox. This is very difficult for me and must be very annoying for my customers when I email them to ask what they ordered. I can only apologise if it has happened to you! It seems to be a problem with the people who host my webpage and we are doing all we can to sort it out. Not a happy bunny at the moment :(

Why does the same grade of yarn sometimes vary in thickness?

2006-07-22T18:06:00.000Z

You may have noticed that bizarrely sometimes the same grade of yarn can seem thinner or thicker according to the colour. Now 2 ply should be 2 ply if it is the same composition from the same manufacturer, but I always find that the big cones I buy can be quite a different size for the same weight, for example a white cone is quite small but a dark pink one can be half as big again. Some colours will wind into quite a small skein, but the same weight in a different colour may give a much more bulky skein. The answer to this conundrum is that the dyes used can affect the yarn, making it more or less bulky, by causing the fibres to swell. The same effect is often seen with embroidery silks; some users will swear that the darker colours are thinner. The good news is that for miniature knitting it does not really affect the tension, and hence the finished size of the item. So if you have noticed this, yes, you have not imagined it, but you don't need to worry about it!

Another pattern published

2006-07-22T13:07:00.000Z

Pleased to say another of my patterns has now been published: see the online magazine Dolls House Artisan. I hope to have more up there soon!

Even more busy, busy, busy

2006-07-18T12:54:00.000Z

And now a hippy outfit too!

Busy, busy, busy....

2006-07-18T07:42:00.000Z

Had a big influx of orders this week for ready knitted items! So in the next few days I will be knitting an heirloom bedspread and cushions, two decorated moses baskets with bedding, an aran jumper, and a little girls dress with underclothes (lessons learned this week: our US friends don't know what knickers are) and hat. With predicted temperatures in the mid 30sC, I will just have to find a cool corner, put the fan on, and hope my fingers don't get too hot. And the pattern I am currently working on for a man's pullover, turn-up trousers and flat cap will go on hold for a few days.
Does everyone else find that knitting takes a back seat when the weather gets hot? The fingers just don't want to be handling tiny woolly stitches.
The bitstobuy family are similarly fully occupied at present: beepone is busy organising her wedding for next year, beeptwo is working very hard on her IT consultancy business www.beeptwo.com and beepthree has just finished uni and moved back home to start his first job as an IT technician next Monday (so more washing for Mum). 'Im outdoors is keeping the kitchen well supplied with lovely fresh veg and fruit from the allotment, and still burning up the bridleways of the South Downs on his mountain bike.
Back to the knitting needles!

2006-07-16T18:48:00.000Z

OK, have just found out how to add pictures. I am learning all the time!

2006-07-16T18:29:00.000Z

Thanks to all the new customers who have contacted me after my profile was published in the August edition of Dolls House and Miniature Scene. I was thrilled that they published photographs of my work over FOUR pages! I seem to have filled a gap in the market, by publishing patterns which are easy to knit, using slightly larger needles and yarn than those already on the market. I am working on new patterns all the time, and am always open to suggestions! Hope to hear from you.

Welcome to my blog

2006-07-16T18:08:00.000Z

Hello everyone and welcome to my blog.
This is where I hope to post news about bitstobuy, notes about what I have been knitting and what patterns I am working on next, and other snippets about miniature knitting that may be of interest.
I would love to hear about what you are knitting and what you think about my patterns. If you have any photographs of items you have knit from my patterns please send them to me and I will put them up here. And of course if you have any questions, or if you need any help with miniature knitting, I will be very pleased to help.
Thanks to all my customers, many of whom feel like good friends, and I look forward to hearing from you!