This is a gift for my friend, Lawrence, whose birthday is on Saturday. He is understanding and patient with my handmade gifts that sometimes arrive a little late. He and his partner, John, are redecorating their home and I find their renovations a perpetual source of inspiration. They love everything I make for them and truly appreciate my time, effort, and creativity. They have shared their talents with me in the forms of beaded jewelry, gorgeous decoupage gifts, and delightfully decorated baskets.
This Azalea Lace Center Piece is from the First Book of Modern Lace Knitting by Marianne Kinzel. I am using Italian DK weight cotton and size 6 Addi Turbo Lace needles instead of the size 40 cotton and size 1 needles used in the original. I started this center piece with the Emily Ocker circular cast-on over 2 circular needles. I purchased a 24 inch and a 32 inch needle when I decided to invest in these lace needles. I used the 24 inch needle first and then knew when I was starting each round. I got to the point where I just used the 24 inch needle and I have since moved on to the 32 inch needle. I'm about half way through the 3 balls of yarn and plan to see how far I get. I hope my 32 inch needle can hold it all and if not, I can add the 24 inch needle back in. Marianne Kinzel also wrote The Second Book of Modern Lace Knitting. These books are both reasonably priced and available on Amazon for anyone interested in knitting some pretty lace projects.
How beautiful!!!! What will be the diameter once finished?
Posted by: Peggy | July 26, 2007 at 05:53 PM
I have both of those books and they're just amazing. I think your project is going to be well received.
Posted by: Opal | July 27, 2007 at 05:18 PM
This is really pretty & knitted in the round! You are a good friend.
Posted by: Ann | July 29, 2007 at 09:32 PM
Beautiful!!!!! I love lace and you are doing such a beautiful job. Your friends will treasure such a thoughtful gift.
Posted by: cheryl | July 30, 2007 at 12:55 PM