Knit-Along scoop

(pilfered by permission from Tipper's Scarf Style Knit-along FAQ)

1. When will this knit-along take place?

This knit-along will be ongoing. Join when you'd like, knit when you'd like, finish when you'd like!

2. How do I join the knit-along?

Send an email to Reb. (updated 3/3/07: Please send e-mail to Kim.)

3. What happens when I send an e-mail to join?

When you send an email, I send you an invite through Blogger. Blogger will send you a link to confirm your membership. If you have a Blogger username, simply enter this and your password and you're all set. If you do not have a Blogger username, you will need to create one before you'll be a member.

4. Do I need a blog to join?

No, only an email address. However, when you sign up, you will be asked to create a username, and you can create a blog (for free!) at this time.

5. How do I post a picture?

When you create a new Blogger post, you'll see icons above the text you're typing. Click on the icon on the right; this will pop up a window that has a few options. You can upload a picture from your computer, insert a picture from a website (use this option if you've already uploaded a picture elsewhere), and select where in the post the picture will be placed. When you've entered the necessary information, select "upload picture" and Blogger will automatically insert the code into your post.

6. The sidebar isn't appearing at the top of the page; what's wrong?

When this happens, someone has posted a picture that is too wide or an URL that is too long. Use TinyURL.com (or HTML code) to make your URL smaller, and make sure your photos are no more than 425 pixels wide.

7. My name isn't appearing in the sidebar. Am I still a member?

I haven't quite figured out how Blogger decides which names to insert into the sidebar and in what order; my best guess is that it will show nicknames (which you can enter into your profile) and will refresh when a new post is made. As long as I've sent you an invite and you've completed the process, you're a member.

8. How do I link my name to my website?

If you enter a website URL into that field in your profile, the posts you make will link your name to your website. Otherwise, they will link to the knit-along blog.

9. Where can I get this pattern?

The Twisted Float Shrug was featured in the Fall 2005 issue of Vogue Knitting. Many local yarn shops still carry this issue or can order it for you. Likewise, it is available from many online vendors. Or you can order a back issue directly from Vogue Knitting. You can also order the pattern individually from Vogue.

10. Can you send me a pattern?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. Patterns are protected by copyright laws, and it's illegal to distribute them. If you want pattern, buy it. Knitwear designers need our support!

11. What yarn should I use?

This pattern calls for Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted and Grace mohair boucle yarns. Some local yarn shops and online vendors sell kits for this shrug, and many others will special order for you. But you can also make your own kit by buying the yarns individually in a myriad of colorways.

Of course, you do not have to use Lorna's Laces. This shrug is also beautiful in Artyarns Supermerino with Silk Fur trim as shown here. Or use any worsted weight yarns your heart desires.