Knitting dishcloths!

I've been knitting dishcloths for many years. They make a wonderful, quick and useful gift that just about anyone can use. The following dishcloths were knit for my niece.
The old standard dishcloth is the one knit on the diagonal.

 You need to use cotton yarn, Sugar 'n Cream, is one of the most commonly used yarns for dishcloths. As you can see in the photo, they have just come out with self-striping yarn. I love it! It makes your work seem more complicated -- and hopefully it is more appreciated by the person who receives the dishcloth.
I like some of the other patterns for dishcloths as well. This one was called Alex's Dishcloth and I found it as a free pattern.

It took a lot more yarn than I expected, but looks nice.
This last one, which I actually made first, was my favorite and was also a free pattern. There are patterns for all kinds of dishcloths out there.

 Any of these dishcloths can be made in a couple hours if you are a fast knitter! If you are slow, maybe three hours. But, they can still be made in relatively little time.

Two balls of Sugar 'N Cream yarn make three dishcloths. Make sure you find the same dye lot when you buy it. I had a hard time doing that. I spent a lot of time comparing the various balls of yarn. In the end, I did find two that matched.
While the plain yarn is nice, especially if you can match it to someone's kitchen decor, I like the variegated yarn or the self-striping. It's just a little more exciting.

Ginko Shoulderette Shawl Knit-along

People from the Wegman's Wednesday knitters, including me, are knitting this pretty shawl.

I just started it last night and will try to post photos as I go along.
I haven't gotten to the pretty party yet, which is along the edge. I still have about 30 rows to go before getting to that part. I'm using Cascade Ultrapima 100% cotton. I hope it doesn't weigh a ton the way cotton sometimes does. I don't think it will because it is sport or DK weight (can't remember which)...

 

I stalled out on the other project I was working on, a secret project... But I needed to get a little more yarn to complete it so I figured I could work on the shawl while I wait for the other yarn to come in the mail.

I finished a baby blanket. I've got to say it's one of the prettiest blankets I've ever made. I made it with cascade 220 superwash wool. It's gorgeous, soft and washable! You can't beat that.

Update on the shawl... It's finished!

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Snake thrown out with the trash - Baltimore exotic animals | Examiner.com