In this morning, working on the tension zone paper. Right now I'm generating diagrams, so it's mostly point, click, change color, change texture on the map, make a layout, change the titles of stuff...not very exciting.

Got the Fall issue of Interweave Knits on Thursday. I really, really, really hope the new owners don't screw it up or run it into the ground or try to make it "more hip."

I really enjoyed this issue - there were a number of things in there I'd like to knit sometime. Particularly loved the Greek-inspired sweater - it made me nearly squeal with delight when I saw it. I also like the cabled vest, plan on making that one someday (but perhaps in a lighter or brighter color). Also, there's a Nancy Bush sock pattern from her new book (which is already on my Christmas list). And a medieval-inspired sweater with slightly-belled sleeves (I forget what they called it; the magazine is at home). And there's a very cute Chenille jacket designed by Teva Durham, but unfortunately the printed pattern only goes up to a 41 1/2 size (closed), so I'd have to fiddle with it if I wanted to make it, and size it up. (Hm. I was thinking of buying her book but if that's the size she regards as an extra-large - as some other COASTALLY BASED designers I could name - then I won't).

Once again, I'm struck by the difference between Interweave Knits and the other knitting magazines - first of all, they have a range of patterns - sweaters, accessories, things I'd never wear (the capelet with the felted flower) but that might be cute on someone else, things I want want want to make (the Greek-inspired sweater, the socks). I can usually count on at least on "oh, I want to make that!" pattern in each issue - not the case with the other mags (and yet, I continue to get them. I'm codependent that way).

Also, I like the photography in Interweave. It hints that the sweaters and other garments have a "secret life," a backstory. It's not just some skinny woman with perfect skin and teeth like Chiclets standing spread-eagled against a sunlit wall, showing off the sweater - no, it's people that you remember from issue to issue (in particular, they seem to use that model who reminds me a bit of a dishwater blonde Audrey Hepburn on a regular basis and I like that). It shows them in antique shops, in their garden, sitting on a daybed reading - I get the feeling the photostylists for IK are themselves knitters, and they realize that lots of knitters are interested in these things. Somehow, I don't know, it humanizes the sweater and makes me feel like I "know" it a little. Also, some of the other magazines always seem to use a really harsh daylight, like the sun in Southern California (I was only there once, but that was enough to know I didn't want to go back) or South Florida. I don't know. I guess I associate hard sunlight with being out on a hot day, perspiring, being uncomfortable, squinting in the sun, etc., etc. and for me it's a very visceral reaction - I don't like the sweaters as well. Oh, they may be a perfectly fine sweater and one I'd like photographed in another setting, but that harsh flat bright light just turns me off. I'd rather see the sweaters in the softer light that Interweave typically uses.

And: a couple more free online sock patterns, courtesy of people on the socknitters list:

Petticoat Socks pattern I think I'm going to use this one on a skein of the Opal - I think it's called Magic - it's one that's a very bright pink and black and white combination. Or maybe the "Paper Dolls" Sock Memories yarn from Knit Picks - I think the pattern calls out for a sort of feminine yarn.

Cable Twist Socks from Hello Yarn. The pattern's recommended for a worsted-weight, but based on the way I knit, I think it also might be possible to use a dk with it. (Maybe not; depends on how much the cables pull in). I have some old Socka Big Print (bought from Elann a couple years ago) that I think would be ideal for this pattern.

And a pretty Razor stitch scarf pattern, embellished at the "points" the lace forms.