Arlenewhiting.info

By IPRWire Staff Writer

Short rows are a simple technique that every knitter should learn.

Inserting short rows can add ‘depth’ to create a more shapely item, and it is a technique that is also used to create soft angles mostly on straight-edged, flat-paneled items.

Using short rows, you can eliminate the step effect you get when you bind off shoulders and make sock heels elegantly curved. This is also an ideal technique for maternity wear to add those ‘few extra curves’ where it is needed most.

Not many knitters are aware of this technique, but inserting short rows and creating curves is a simple and must learn technique.

To accomplish this, an existing row is partially knitted to a pre-determined stitch count, then turning the work and working back to the same (or another) count, and turning again.

To explain further, if you are looking to create a maternity sweater using an existing pattern to ensure the front of your sweater does not ride up, you could add short rows to the bust line and the belly areas, allowing for the extra shaping of your body.

You knit the instructions as per your pattern for the back of your sweater, however to shape the front of your sweater you can add short rows to make allowances for the additional ‘girth’ that is natural during pregnancy.

Your pattern might direct you to cast on 100 stitches for the front of your sweater, then work out the length you want your sweater to come down to on your hips and follow your pattern until you reach the area where your stomach starts to ‘protrude.’ To accommodate this additional girth you can then insert short rows.

Here is how the shaping is done. You knit up to a certain point of your item – it might be the last 20 stitches – then turn and knit back to the last 20, then turn again, work these stitches until satisfied that you have the ‘curve’ you need. Started with 100 stitches – knitted the first 80 stitches and turned, then knitted the next 60 stitches, this is your first short row, your next row you might only need 40 stitches, all 100 stitches stay on your needles as eventually you will knit straight across but as you have inserted these extra rows you will see the shaping.

A little ‘curve’ created into your garment might just be the difference between gaping armholes or an un-intended ride-up by your belly button, and it is ideal for knitting maternity wear where you need those extra curves, or even just to make a size larger that fits your chest but doesn’t sag on your hips and shoulders. When inserting short rows, you can customized the pattern to suit your shape.

To learn more about the wonders of knitting, visit http://www.easy-knit.com.

About the Author: Easy-knit at http://www.easy-knit.com was founded in 2005 in Shellharbour, NSW, Australia and was eventually launched on the Internet in March 2006. It has quickly become the one stop shop for knitting tips and short row tips.

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By Jessica Ackerman

With sketchy economic times befalling many American households, many homeowners are getting better at reviving portions of their home that they would normally discard and replace. For example, lighting fixtures are a really easy way to update the look of a room; however, they do cost money. It is possible to save a little without sacrificing design and style by reusing an existing light fixture and simply updating it with paint. There are many different techniques that yield lovely results when updating the look of any room.

When painting a light fixture, it is possible to change the aesthetic of the fixture to fit the new look of a room. It is also possible to simply refurbish a light fixture and bring it back to looking new again. However, it is possible to create a really bold design statement by adding a splash of color to the room with a fresh, newly painted light fixture. These are just several reasons to consider painting existing light fixtures instead of replacing them when remodeling a room.

Simple and Stunning

When considering spray painting a light fixture, it may not seem like such an easy project will make much difference in a room’s design, but it is amazing at how much of a change a simply spritz of paint can make in a room. The more dramatic the color change, obviously the more noticeable the difference will be. For example, taking a fixture from black to white or from white to red can really make an impression on the room.

To make a light fixture stand out in a room select a color that contrasts its surroundings. For a fixture hanging from a white ceiling remember that painting it black or bronze will really make it stand out. However, painting a black light fixture white and mounting it on a white ceiling will allow it to blend in with its surroundings. So consider where the light fixture will be mounted before settling on a color to paint it.

Spray Painting a Light Fixture

If you like the shape, size and function of a light fixture, it may be enough to simply refurbish what is already there. If paint is chipping or cracking, then simply sand and repaint using the same color. If a metallic finish is dulled or tarnished, spray it with the same finish that it already has, or simply add a coat of clear high gloss paint to give it some sheen. Spray paints are available in all kinds of colors, finishes and textures, and they are formulated to adhere to just about any material imaginable.

One of the really great things about painting a light fixture is that it is a really easy way to update the fixture and make it the focal point of the room at the same time. Add a bold color splash to liven up a neutral colored room and add a little life to the space.

Safe Working Conditions

When working with a spray can and a lighting fixture, make sure to work safely. It is usually best to remove the fixture from the ceiling or wall when spray painting it, but if that is not possible, make sure to protect surrounding areas from over spray. Then take care if standing on a ladder. Also flip the circuit breaker to make sure that there are no fire or shock hazards. It is always best to spray paint outside; however, if painting inside simply ensure that the room is adequately ventilated. Protect eyes with protective eye wear, and protect skin with a long sleeved shirt and gloves. Taking these precautions will ensure that any light fixture painting project will be successful.

About the Author: Jessica Ackerman is a freelance writer and works for WallDecorandHomeAccents.com. She shares her wealth of knowledge on large wood wall sculptures and abstract wooden wall art.

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=651836&ca=Home+Management