Black Death – the pattern</h1> <article> <h1>Black Death – the pattern</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 06 May 2013 10:49:50 +0000</p> I have just published my Black Death shawl pattern as a free Ravelry download! I am quite giddy with excitement. Thank you to everyone who left encouraging comments, I hope it doesn’t disappoint. As it’s my very first pattern it’s … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/05/06/black-death-the-pattern/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Life Is A Party</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:54:18 +0000</p> So, I am half way through a month of happy celebrations – a wedding bonanza, as I like to think of it – where I am at a wedding or a hen party every weekend. If you’re wondering where the … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/04/29/life-is-a-party/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Pen and Paper</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:48:07 +0000</p> It’s National Stationery Week – no I don’t know why either, but I have something of an obsession with notebooks and stationery in general, so I’m happy to join in. New stationery brings the promise of so much – artistic … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/04/26/pen-and-paper/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 107: Remake</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 22:19:34 +0000</p> This week we’re taking the advice of movie moguls and launching remakes of old knitwear as all new epic blockbusters. Or something like that. Plus there’s my trip to York, an update on my first pattern, a cardigan to help … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/04/07/episode-107-remake/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Red Death</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 14:54:59 +0000</p> I’ve knitted up another version of my Black Death shawl, so that I could make notes as I went and write up the pattern. This time I used Malabrigo Rios, in a gorgeous red and pink shade called Jupiter. I … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/04/06/red-death/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Groundhog Day</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 11:21:38 +0000</p> Like the scenario of what is arguably the best film ever, we appear to be trapped in a neverending Winter. At this very moment, it is attempting to snow outside my window. Apparently last weekend was the coldest Easter Sunday … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/04/04/groundhog-day/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>York</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:49:57 +0000</p> Some snaps from my trip to York a couple of weeks ago… (click to embiggen). Will tell you more (and of course discuss the yarn I brought back) on the next ep of the podcast. </article> <article> <h1>Episode 106: Nothing New Under The Sun</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 19:26:22 +0000</p> I seem to be knitting the same simple patterns over and over so this week we’re looking at the joy of familiar favourites. Plus we catch up on what else I’ve been knitting lately; there’s a new yarn to tell … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/03/17/episode-106-nothing-new-under-the-sun/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Little Brother</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:45:12 +0000</p> At last, it is DONE! This is the cardigan I promised my little brother about, oh, it must be several decades ago by now. And when I say little, I mean that he is younger than me, not smaller than … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/02/26/little-brother/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Peckham</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 20:07:33 +0000</p> A few snaps on my phone and a quick play around with some filters for a brief tour of Peckham and East Dulwich. </article> <article> <h1>Episode 105: Peckham Handmade</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 19:42:42 +0000</p> Hoxton will always be close to be heart but these days the Sheep and I are happy residents of Peckham Rye, so I thought it was high time I showed you around. Plus there’s been a lot of baby knitting … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/02/17/episode-105-peckham-handmade/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Catch Them Early</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 14:56:33 +0000</p> There is an epidemic of babies around here at the moment. Actually, forget that, it makes it sound like a bad thing, let’s call it a multitude of happy events instead. Now some of these babies have been around for several months, … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/02/15/catch-them-early/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Busy like a Bee</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 15:52:13 +0000</p> I am still here. Promise. I realise I’ve fallen slightly off the map lately, and the funny thing is, it’s been quite nice. I think it’s healthy to step back from my online alter-ego(s) now and again, especially when there’s … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/02/05/busy-like-a-bee/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Lund</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 19:33:10 +0000</p> Ages ago, when I was utterly gripped by the fabulous first series of Danish crime drama The Killing, I desperately wanted my very own Jumper of Wisdom. However, I didn’t want to make an exact replica, more of an ‘inspired by’ … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/01/27/lund/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Black Death</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 11:55:27 +0000</p> At long last the plague on my leg is healing, I’m up and about once again, and eagerly planning blogs and podcasts. Whilst this episode of trench foot has been unpleasant (and, apparently, somewhat bizarre in a healthy person my … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/01/24/black-death/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>A Cure For All Ills</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 20:21:27 +0000</p> Whilst antibiotics are something of a modern miracle (and seem to be winning the battle against my infection – thankfully, today I am slightly less like a plague-ridden fourteenth century peasant) it’s a different cure I’m blogging about – knitting, obviously. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/01/05/a-cure-for-all-ills/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Plague</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:27:28 +0000</p> Happy New Year to you and yours, I hope you’ve all had a lovely Christmas and that 2013 brings you health, happiness and plenty of yarn. Here in Peckham, we’ve had a great time with friends and family; eaten too … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2013/01/04/plague/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The End Is Nigh</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 09:27:11 +0000</p> I’m delighted that we all seem to have survived the Mayan Apocalypse, but knitters know there is another End of Times deadline looming. There’s less than 24 hours to go until you need to have those handknits finished, wrapped and … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/24/the-end-is-nigh/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The Clock Is Ticking</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 19:25:37 +0000</p> How’s it going? Is your knitting on schedule, or spiralling out of control? I hope it’s going well, mine’s somewhere between the two. The cardigan is unlikely to be finished in time, but I’m trying not to obsess over it. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/22/the-clock-is-ticking/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>His and/or Hers</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:05:58 +0000</p> Another nifty unisex gift and an excellent use of Malabrigo, is a textured cowl. This one is the Darkside Cowl which I made for my brother last Christmas. Only took me a couple of days and it gives a lovely squishy … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/20/his-andor-hers/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 104: The Panto Menace</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 22:50:08 +0000</p> The Electric Sheep Knitters’ Audio Christmas Pantomime returns! With romance, terrible jokes, ludicrous costumes, dodgy innuendo, and quite a lot of cross-dressing. It’s all very silly, with a cheering festive soundtrack, so if you need a little company whilst you … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/19/episode-104-the-panto-menace/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Malabrigo Is Your Friend</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 11:35:30 +0000</p> You will notice a theme over the next few days, and that theme is embodied by Malabrigo Worsted. In the final run-up to Christmas we’ll be focusing on yarns whose irresistible squishy softness will sooth your frazzled soul and knit … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/19/malabrigo-is-your-friend/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Totally Sane</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 10:29:49 +0000</p> Now I know what you’re thinking – it’s less than a week to go until Christmas, it’s simply not possible to knit a sweater in that time and to even contemplate such a thing would be the height of madness. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/18/totally-sane/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Sheep-Free Knitting</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:17:26 +0000</p> We all know that I am a big fan of wool. Proper, sheepy, smelling of lanolin and with bits of straw stuck in it, wool. If there’s no sheep available, I can be talked down off the ledge with some … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/17/sheep-free-knitting/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Better Late Than Never</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 16 Dec 2012 20:41:16 +0000</p> I know, I know, I’m late with my blog posting this weekend, but just in the nick of time, here are two more suggestions for your advent knitting. Hats are brilliant Christmas gifts. Simple, quick, unisex, and who doesn’t want … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/16/better-late-than-never/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Something For Everyone</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:56:19 +0000</p> It’s difficult sometimes, trying to find the right pattern. Especially if it’s someone you perhaps don’t know that well – your brother’s new girlfriend – or a bloke to whom you can’t possibly give yet another hat, or something that … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/14/something-for-everyone/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Defrost</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 15:29:09 +0000</p> The deep freeze is still going strong here, but thankfully the temperature is meant to jump up about 10 degrees tomorrow. Until then, I will still be clutching my favourite hot water bottle, waiting for sensation to return to my … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/13/defrost/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Keep It Cosy</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:09:08 +0000</p> It is COLD in London at the moment (and before you start scoffing, all you Canadians/Scandinavians/people with Real Weather, these things are relative, and I think we can all agree -1°C is pretty nippy). I spent yesterday evening knitting on the … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/12/keep-it-cosy/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Stripes</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:49:25 +0000</p> As a general rule of thumb, I think it’s hard to go wrong with a few stripes. To illustrate my point, here’s the next pattern in my Advent countdown; Cameo. I’ll keep this brief, since I’ve blogged about this pattern recently, but this is … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/11/stripes/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Leftovers</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:31:52 +0000</p> One of the best things about Christmas dinner is, of course, the leftovers. The turkey sandwich carefully assembled on Boxing Day (or, in my family, often as a late Christmas-night snack) is almost better than the original meal it came … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/10/leftovers/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Raspberry Gin</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 22:31:15 +0000</p> This afternoon I finally got around to making up some Raspberry Gin, just in time for Christmas. I got the idea from this article, although there’s no real recipe as such. You simply take some gin, some raspberries and a … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/09/raspberry-gin/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Feeling Festive</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 08 Dec 2012 18:20:39 +0000</p> Today, we bought our Christmas tree. We don’t have a massive amount of space, and we won’t be here for Christmas Day itself, so we only wanted a little tree, but this one is just the perfect shape. It took … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/08/feeling-festive/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Vanilla</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 17:24:59 +0000</p> Continuing with Christmas knitting ideas, one of the most obvious is to keep it simple. A classic, plain, knitted item is a fail-safe option and probably a lot quicker than anything with fancy cables, colourwork or a multitude of pom-poms. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/07/vanilla/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Think Big</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 12:22:53 +0000</p> I’m hoping that you haven’t noticed that this should have been posted yesterday. Four days in and I’m already falling behind; this doesn’t bode well… But to make up for it, there will be two postings today to allow me … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/07/think-big/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>A Matter of Confidence</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 10:52:11 +0000</p> So you know how only yesterday I was advocating the pursuit of small achievable goals in your Christmas knitting? It’s going to look like I’m reneging on that piece of advice today, but I’m really not. I promise. In an … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/05/a-matter-of-confidence/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Small Achievable Goals</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 10:27:33 +0000</p> My main piece of advice, if you are busy knitting Christmas gifts, is not to over-reach. The fact that I have never once done this should not deter you from heeding my warning; if anything, it only proves my point. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/04/small-achievable-goals/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Advent</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 12:13:12 +0000</p> So, I don’t have an advent calendar this year. No, not even one filled with gin, alas, so I have decided the make this blog my very own sheepy advent calendar. I have shamelessly copied been inspired by the Making, … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/03/advent/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 103: Delayed Gratification</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 02 Dec 2012 22:57:52 +0000</p> This week, as frantic Christmas knitting takes over, we contemplate how you can reward yourself for all that hard work. There’s an update on how my Christmas knitting is coming along; some excellent beards in honour of Movember; an advent … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/12/02/episode-103-delayed-gratification/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>More Comfort Knitting</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 11:11:03 +0000</p> It is freezing, and I mean that quite literally – when I woke up this morning it was 0°C. Thankfully, I have a wardrobe full of wool that laughs in the face of frostbite (insert evil genius Mwhhhhaaa-haa-haa-ha cackling here). … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/11/30/more-comfort-knitting/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>A Model of Self-Restraint*</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 12:28:13 +0000</p> Last year I made a proper Christmas Jumper. I mean the real deal, it had reindeers on it and everything, and I loved it. I wore it a lot in the run-up to Christmas; it was cheering and festive and … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/11/22/a-model-of-self-restraint/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Fool’s Errand</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 10:53:31 +0000</p> So, you know how I am a selfish knitter for much of the year, and have sworn off Christmas knitting after the disasters and sheer lunacy of 2008. I have offered helpful (and ridiculous) advice on the perils of Yuletide … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/11/15/fools-errand/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 102: Knights of the Round Table</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 18:51:20 +0000</p> This week it’s the return of the Sheep’s film review, as we follow the gallant adventures and complicated love triangle of Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot in First Knight. We then have further heroics from the crafty folk saving the world … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/11/11/episode-102-knight-of-the-round-table/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Comfort Knitting</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 19:13:08 +0000</p> For various reasons the last couple of months have been fairly stressful, and now to top it off I’m sitting at home with laryngitis. It’s a little tricky to podcast without a voice, so I’m having to put my Sheepy … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/10/27/comfort-knitting/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>I’m A Piece</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 10:04:28 +0000</p> On Tuesday evening, I headed over to the Living and Giving shop in Chalk Farm for the launch of the Craftivist Jigsaw Project, I’m A Piece, a collaboration between Save the Children and the Craftivist Collective to end world hunger. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/10/18/im-a-piece/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 101: Winter Is Coming</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 22:08:46 +0000</p> The Sheep is preparing for the winter with some speedy patterns and quick tips to ward off the chill, which are also useful if you’re planning some Christmas knitting… Plus I update you on what I’ve been knitting; there’s a … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/10/03/episode-101-winter-is-coming/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Yarn to Go</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 09:38:24 +0000</p> I’m posting this from my phone, so a bit of an experiment in mobile blogging! The change in the weather, combined with a certain amount of stress from one thing and another, has got me in a knitting frenzy. I … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/10/03/yarn-to-go/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Writing for Knitting Magazine</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:16:45 +0000</p> I’m very excited to be able to reveal a project that has been in the pipeline for the last few months. The latest issue of Knitting Magazine, which went on sale yesterday, features an article written by me, all about … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/28/writing-for-knitting-magazine/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Winter Is Coming</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:56:36 +0000</p> The weather is definitely starting to turn, with a real chill in the early mornings and after dark. Which I’m actually pretty pleased about as it means it’s time to break out the handknits! A trip up to Shropshire last … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/25/winter-is-coming/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Space Invaders</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 23 Sep 2012 19:52:20 +0000</p> I’ve been wanting to blog about this jumper for a while, but as it was a gift, I needed to wait until it was safely dispatched. Little James (as he is in my head, now that he has outgrown the … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/23/space-invaders/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 100</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 11:25:40 +0000</p> Bring out the bunting, top up the gin and cut yourself an extra-large slice of cake, the 100th episode of Electric Sheep is here! In this epic edition of the podcast we have the Q&A from the listeners in the … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/09/episode-100/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>#100sheep Twitter Party</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 11:19:37 +0000</p> As I mentioned very briefly on the last episode, I’m thinking of holding a Twitter party as part of the 100th episode celebrations. If you’re wondering what that is, well it’s pretty simple really. There’s a hashtag for the party … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/03/100sheep-twitter-party/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 99: Be Curious</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 16:36:01 +0000</p> This week, inspired by the opening ceremony for the Paralympic Games, I am taking Professor Stephen Hawking’s advice to be curious. We’ll also be taking a look at more knitting goodies for the coming season, with Knitty and Pom Pom … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/02/episode-99-be-curious/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Paralympic Games</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 10:36:26 +0000</p> I spent yesterday at the Olympic Park. First up, was Goal Ball: Played by the visually impaired (who wear blackout masks to make everyone equally and completely blind), each team of three members tries to score a goal by throwing … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/09/02/paralympic-games/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>A letter to Tineola Bisselliella</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 09:43:22 +0000</p> Dear Bastards Moths, Just look at what you’ve done: Whilst I am flattered that you are such enthusiastic residents of my home, and I agree that the Victorian features and original fireplaces are quite lovely, I’m afraid you have long … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/08/29/a-letter-to-tineola-bisselliella/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 98: Knit All The Things</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 21:26:57 +0000</p> This week I’m trying to hold the startitis at bay in the face of all the new knitting patterns that have recently been published. We take a look at the new issues of Rowan Magazine and Twist Collective. Plus there’s … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/08/20/episode-98-knit-all-the-things/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The Song of Achilles</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:08:55 +0000</p> I was a Classics student at school, fighting my way through years of Latin before settling down to some good English translations in Classical Civilisation at A Level. As a child, I loved reading ancient Greek myths, and as a … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/08/08/the-song-of-achilles/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>En Garde!</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 09:36:50 +0000</p> It’s official, I have seen the Olympics. Well, one bit of them, at least. Yesterday I headed over to the Excel Centre: We arrived for the evening session and breezed through security. No queues, cheerful security people and very polite … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/08/02/en-garde/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 97: Let the Games Begin</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 19:19:04 +0000</p> Olympic fever has hit London and finally, the Sheep’s role in the festivities can be revealed as we discuss the extravaganza of the Opening Ceremony. Plus there’s a rundown of what’s on my needles and a show that proves we … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/29/episode-97-let-the-games-begin/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>In which I see the light</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 11:10:25 +0000</p> So, I was on Oxford Street in the middle of London yesterday afternoon, just before the Olympic Torch was scheduled to roll past. Even I had to concede this would be worth watching, and so I stood by the side … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/27/in-which-i-see-the-light/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Eeyore</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:43:12 +0000</p> Apparently, the New York Times thinks Britain is a nation of Eeyores. I can’t check this as the article in question is behind their paywall, but I can understand the impression that we are a country of pessimists when it comes to … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/25/eeyore/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Watch This!</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 10:08:34 +0000</p> In an effort to say something positive about the Olympics and Paralympics may I point you in the direction of this Channel 4 trailer for the Paralympics. I saw it on TV for the first time last night and it’s … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/18/watch-this/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 96: Tech Support</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 20:52:57 +0000</p> This week the Sheep gets technical with knitting tips from the experts. Plus a Wimbledon knitter causes a stir; we remember Nora Ephron’s inspiring words; there’s a crafty London blog from a friend of mine; and the Ravelympic furore gets … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/15/episode-96-tech-support/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>O w l s</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 10:28:52 +0000</p> Today I thought I'd celebrate an oldie but a goodie. I say old, it's only been around for a few years but it's quickly become a classic. Yes indeed, the O w l s jumper by Kate Davies. This is … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/11/o-w-l-s-2/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 95: Bugbears</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 01 Jul 2012 19:18:27 +0000</p> This week I attempt to deal with my bugbears, answering the questions and correcting the assumptions people make when they see me knitting. I’ll also be telling you about my holiday, and my holiday knitting; there’s a new collection from … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/07/01/episode-95-bugbears/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Alcazar of Seville – Pattern Inspiration</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 10:38:30 +0000</p> Our travels around Andalucia included some truly amazing sights – the Alhambra, the Mezquita in Cordoba, the mountains of the Sierra Nevada – and I have come home with hundreds of photographs to sort through (of which more later). But … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/06/29/alcazar-of-seville-pattern-inspiration/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The Emperor of All Maladies</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:32:25 +0000</p> Ok, so a book all about cancer may not sound like ideal bedtime reading, but The Emperor of All Maladies, by Siddhartha Mukherjee is brilliant stuff. Billed as the ‘autobiography’ of cancer, it’s an historical epic that, whilst going into … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/06/25/the-emperor-of-all-maladies/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Simmer Dim</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 24 Jun 2012 18:47:51 +0000</p> Sorry the blog’s been rather quiet, I’ve been away in Andalucia (fantastic place – go immediately). My holiday knitting over the past two weeks has been mostly this: Simmer Dim is a fab shawl pattern by Gudrun Johnston. It has … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/06/24/simmer-dim/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 94: Jubilation</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 19:01:56 +0000</p> The Sheep is feeling patriotic this week as the nation celebrates the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. But amid the pomp and the parties, we still have time to get back to the knitting, with a round up of what’s on my … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/06/05/episode-94-jubilation/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 93: Brothers & Beards</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 20 May 2012 18:02:56 +0000</p> This week I share my knitting woes as I try to knit a cardigan for my younger brother. Plus there’s a round-up of what else I’ve been knitting and a review of some patterns that have caught my eye on … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/05/20/episode-93-brothers-beards/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The Plan</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 17 May 2012 09:20:04 +0000</p> Thank you for all the oh-so-helpful comments on the last post. As ever, there is much knitting wisdom to be found from kindly folk online. Last night I got home and spent an hour or so on the sofa, scribbling … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/05/17/the-plan-2/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Glutton for Punishment</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 16 May 2012 09:48:53 +0000</p> So, you know all the fun I had knitting the boyfriend’s Charmed Sweater? Well, it seems I’ve decided to set myself another Herculean knitting task. My little brother will turn 30 at the beginning of June. Yes, yes, I know … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/05/16/glutton-for-punishment/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 92: London 2012</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 02 May 2012 20:40:33 +0000</p> This week is all about the looming London Olympic Games. There’s also an update on what I’m knitting, a few tips about knitting on airplanes, a sheepy event coming up in London and some impressively coiffured alpacas. Good Gym Acer, Wool … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/05/02/episode-92-london-2012/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Day 5: Something a Bit Different</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 07:08:59 +0000</p> I’m out of the country over the weekend, so I’m going to have to bow out early, but thanks to everyone who’s read, commented and joined in the blog week, and I’ve loved reading the other participants – it’s been … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/27/day-5-something-a-bit-different/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>I Surrender</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:11:35 +0000</p> Not part of Knitting & Crochet Blog Week, but this has broken me: I’ve previously blogged about my love for the adult version of this jumper pattern by Carrie Bostick Hoge and we all know my helplessness when confronted with Quince … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/26/i-surrender/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Day 4: A Knitter for all Seasons</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:57:18 +0000</p> I live in the UK, where seasons are a vague notion, rather than clearly defined stages of the year. They tend to be interchangeable and unpredictable; the temperature can jump 15C in the space of a few days, it can … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/26/day-4-a-knitter-for-all-seasons/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Day 3: Your Knitting Hero</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:45:19 +0000</p> I have to admit I find today’s topic a little daunting. Not because it’s difficult to think of a knitting hero – on the contrary, I have so many! – but because I am wary of frightening talented knitters with … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/25/day-3-your-knitting-hero/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Day 2: Photograph Challenge</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:24:31 +0000</p> I didn’t have chance to plan an exciting photograph for today’s challenge, so instead I had a hunt through the archives and found a picture that combines my love of knitting with my love of podcasting – it’s Mini-Me! I … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/24/day-2-photograph-challenge/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Day 1: Colour Lovers</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:44:31 +0000</p> Knitting and Crochet Blog week is here! Welcome, if you’re new to the blog, and do check out the other participants using today’s tag 3KCBWDAY1 . So without further ado, let’s dive right in, and there’ll be a new topic … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/23/day-1-colour-lovers/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Knitting and Crochet Blog Week 2012</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:57:10 +0000</p> Next week marks the start of the third annual Knitting & Crochet Blog Week, organised by Eskimimi Makes. It’s a brilliant idea, whereby yarn-loving bloggers everywhere write a post every day for a week. Each day has a universal topic, … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/17/knitting-and-crochet-blog-week-2012/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 91: Now We Are Three</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 15:47:22 +0000</p> The podcast has escaped the clutches of the evil hackers and is back to celebrate its third anniversary! Join the Sheep on another adventure as he decides to track down the cyber criminals. Plus we take a look at the … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/15/episode-91-now-we-are-three/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Sibella</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:19:06 +0000</p> There are many, many knitting patterns that instantly have me drooling, but few that have me itching to cast on quite as much as this. Sibella, by Carrie Bostick Hoge and the serial enablers at Quince & Co. is the jumper I have been … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/13/sibella/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Knit All the Things</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:15:16 +0000</p> I’ve been doing a mental round up of Things That Need Knitting, and once I ran out of fingers I knew I was in trouble. The problem lovely thing is that several friends are having babies and getting married; momentous occasions for … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/12/knit-all-the-things/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Podcast Update</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 21:05:20 +0000</p> A quick note FYI: I’m busy writing and working on the next episode, which should be a bumper issue as we’ve lots to catch up on. Planning to record and upload it this weekend. I’m then going to be away … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/10/podcast-update/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Unravel 2012</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:43:02 +0000</p> Now that the website is up and running again, I’m catching up on a few things that I’ve been itching to blog about. Firstly, the promised pictures from Unravel at Farnham Maltings (picture heavy, so click below to see the whole … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/10/unravel-2012/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>The Sheep is back!</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:02:25 +0000</p> Yaaay, I’m back in! If you’ve wondered where the hell I’ve been for the last month, the silence was down to the fact that the website was hacked, causing all manner of technical mayhem. Luckily it seems that most people … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/04/05/the-sheep-is-back/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 90: WIP</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 09:28:03 +0000</p> This week it’s all about the perils of startitis and accumulating Works In Progress. Plus there’s an update on Unravel and just how much yarn I’ve added to my stash; a review of some amazingly bearded TV; and the best … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/03/14/episode-90-wip/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>2,000,000</h1> <p>Hoxton — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 10:48:41 +0000</p> It’s quite sweet the way so many people still think of knitting as a relic from a bygone era. Whether reading newspaper articles or chatting to someone in the office, I’m often struck by how many folk are still surprised … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/03/02/2000000/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Gathering Stripes</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:31:48 +0000</p> Ever since I saw the children's Gathering Stripes jumper, by Veera Valimaki, I have been hankering after an adult version. Especially when I met this little lady modelling hers at Unravel. It turns out I was not alone, and Veera … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/29/gathering-stripes/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Honey</h1> <p>Hoxton — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:29:27 +0000</p> Alright Quince & Co. just stop this now. I can't handle any more enabling; if it's not the patterns, it's the yarn, calling to me in a way that is, frankly, bordering on the unhealthy. I am totally smitten and … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/28/honey/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Episode 89: The Sweater Curse</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 20:23:07 +0000</p> The podcast returns with a challenge to knitting mythology – is it possible to beat the Boyfriend Sweater Curse? Plus we catch up on what else I’ve been knitting; there are some blog recommendations and a beard-tastic documentary. Read about … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/26/episode-89-the-sweater-curse/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Charming</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 19:45:18 +0000</p> It is DONE! Actually, it was done on Friday night, but I haven’t had chance to blog about it until now. Yes, the Charmed Sweater is finished and it fits. Really it does. I would show you a picture of … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/26/charming/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Numberwang</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 23:25:20 +0000</p> So, there are several mistakes in this sweater. And I’ve decided to take a friend’s advice and fix them another time, so that the sweater is never really finished, and therefore the curse can never take effect at full potency. … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/23/numberwang/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Zelkova</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:19:30 +0000</p> Lace sweaters tends to make me a little nervous – I worry that they can appear too fussy and twee (at least on me at any rate). No such concerns with this pretty number from Through the Loops. Zelkova is … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/22/zelkova/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Home Stretch</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:59:04 +0000</p> I’m getting there. Yesterday I joined the sleeves and body and knitted all. day. long. With the opening round running to about 288 stitches, progress was slow, but I built up a nice line of raglan double decreases every third … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/20/home-stretch/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Pomme de Pin</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:58:46 +0000</p> I am utterly smitten with this lovely new pattern from Amy Christoffers. Its long ribbed cuffs and relaxed fit look super cosy and I love the colour of the sample, which gives it a vintage feel.The pine cone lace pattern … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/15/pomme-de-pin/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Hiccup</h1> <p>Hoxton — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:43:28 +0000</p> Like the dinner guest who was a witty conversationalist at the start of the evening and now, after one too many glasses of punch, is zombie-staggering across the living room trying to do the dance to Bad Romance, this sweater … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/13/hiccup/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Chambourd</h1> <p>Hoxton — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:56:46 +0000</p> I've managed to record a new episode of the podcast however, owing to a tech issue overhanging from when my laptop had to be wiped, I can't share it with you just yet.Â But in the meantime, look at this … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/09/chambourd/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Bliss – Take Two</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:53:50 +0000</p> So, the renovated Bliss sweater is now finished, with longer sleeves: Luckily, my washing machine behaved itself this time, and after a run through the wool cycle, the new yarn bloomed and the join is no longer visible. So, I’m … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/05/bliss-take-two/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Progress</h1> <p>Hoxton — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:33:36 +0000</p> I have 11 inches of Charmed Sweater: I did the hem using some of the same New Lanark wool I had, but in a DK weight. I did a knitted cast on with 5mm needles, then switched to 4mm needles … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/04/progress/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> <article> <h1>Distracted</h1> <p>Hoxton — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:21:34 +0000</p> I am making progress on the Charmed Sweater. I have about 7 inches of the body done and it seems to be measuring up to the required 44″, although I’m going to get him to try it on and make … <a href="http://www.hoxtonhandmade.com/2012/02/01/distracted/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">→</span></a> </article> </main></body></html>