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Sylvie Smith

@bilvie

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Another instalment of #socktober

@mclevq just launched sock pattern book Coloris which includes #ivoire and I was thrilled to have been selected to test knit (in French 💜). These are the cutest - lovely picot foldover hem, dainty yet simple textured stitch, straightforward heel flap - it all comes together revealing a beautiful finished object. The yarn I selected was special as I bought it on our trip to the Azores: Lana Grossa Vintage Socks in colorway Vinta 1018.

Apparently I went overboard with the basil this year (50+ plants.. oops). I have to say, it’s also the first year I’ve been able to grow some decent sized plants and leaves- thanks to some great pointers from @lachancepiche. What to do with so much basil? Pesto, more pesto and large freezer bags of fresh basil to last us until next summer for sure. I got a decent amount of thyme, sage and celery. Celery leaves were dried and crushed to make some pseudo parsley. Celery stems chopped and frozen for winter soups on repeat.

Another sneak peak of a work in progress: this is the Four Seasons Camisole from @celine.knits - almost there.

#retiredlife #testknitter #nevernotknitting by @bilvie

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6 days ago

It’s #socktober and I wanted to share one of my latest finished objects.

I had the pleasure of test knitting (in French 💜) these oh so cute sockettes by @sarah_bleau_design back in August. The #Micro-Pousse are knitted in DK and turned out perfectly using West Yorkshire Spinners Pure 100% wool in colorway Rainfall. The pattern was a cinch to follow and super quick to knit up. You may notice @brigitte_artiste smiling as they were knit for my sister’s birthday. Bonne fête Brigitte 🥳

I’ve also been busy harvesting and processing all the tomatoes:
- roasted
- pico de gallo
- sauced
- fresh (Beefsteak)
- frozen whole (Early Girl or Manitoba 🤷‍♀️)

There’s always something new on the go, this is #Sollas from @the.creabea, more info coming soon.

#retiredlife #testknitter by @bilvie

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13 days ago

Sometimes an unplanned outing makes for memorable moments…

I dropped in at my mom’s today to find my 2 sisters already hanging out. @lachancepiche and @brigitte_artiste were just about to whisk away our 93 year old maman to an undisclosed location.

Destination: #backalleyarctic.

I was not aware of the existence of this local treasure by @kalbarteski. If you have a bit of time on your hands and are interested in seeing some breathtaking art in the Wolseley neighbourhood, park the car and take a stroll. The back-lane is peppered with murals of arctic animals on a variety of surfaces, mostly garage doors but also on fences. Look around and you’ll find hidden creatures (no need to encroach on any private property).

Thank you for sharing your talent - I’ve included a few photos, there is so much more to admire… impressive, varied, lifelike, special.

#retiredlife❤️ #familytime❤️ #localart taken in Back Alley Arctic by @bilvie

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2 months ago

Does three years in a row make it an official yearly tradition?!

I just spent the last few days lakeside with @rahoude and @runccrun14 - the best time, the best laughs, the best view, the best company, the best food and the best rest and relaxation a gal can have.

As one can imagine, amongst all this merriment and fun in the sun was ever present knitting. I usually am fairly organized when it comes to my project bag but somehow this time, i forgot to double check before I set off on my adventure. I was temporarily dismayed to discover that 2 projects only had an itty bitty amount of yarn left. Oh happy day I brought 3!! Let the good times continue to roll…

A huge thank you to my friend Reneeeeeeeee who so generously hosted Colleen and I at her slice of paradise.

#retiredlife❤️ #nervernotknitting #galpals #lakelife by @bilvie

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2 months ago

I finished knitting this soft and fuzzy top a few days ago while taking a self-imposed break from test knitting.

I made a few alterations to the Columbine pattern from @strikrik to really make it my own.

Although I did meet gauge, the sleeves were going to be much roomier than necessary so I borrowed a technique from @lilykatemakes #poisonedappletop and made pleats - so much better. Next on my list was the plunging neckline, a little too showy for my comfort level. Some knitty friends suggested I make a broken rib swatch with a double strand of the mohair - love it! I toyed with the idea of knitting a peplum on the bottom and well, one can always change their minds.

Overall I am super pleased with the end result. I will have to wait to wear this one until the weather cools off a bit.

Pattern: Columbine
Designer: @strikrik
Yarn: Arwetta and Tilia from @filcolana held together in colorway Vintage Rose
Shop: @lamaillerie

#retiredlife #nevernotknitting❤️ #lifeisgood by @bilvie

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2 months ago

I knit these #crunchingcarrotssocks by @stoneknits for my sister’s birthday.

The pattern is clearly written and easy to follow. It was my first time using the magic loop with my @officialchiaogoo minis. I quite liked it and will continue to do so for any project that calls for smaller needle sizes.

These finally got a bath and dry on the sock blockers - all that’s left is a few ends to weave in before handing them over (just a tad late… 😬)

Bonne fête @lachancepiche - je t’aime 🥕

Pattern: Crunching Carrots found in the book Joyful Colorwork Socks by @stoneknits
Yarn from a variety of sources:
Lang Jawall in colorway Brown Dirt and Pastel Lagoon from @theknittingloft
Biscotte Yarn Bis-Sock in colorway Sorbet from @biscotteyarns
Cog Yarn mini skein in colorway Green from @wolseleywool

#retiredlife❤️ #nevernotknitting #sisterlove by @bilvie

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2 months ago

The #dianabralette from @celine.knits is being released today.

Céline has created such a beautiful pattern. The attention to details with the placement of cables flows beautifully and thoughtfully throughout the entire project. She includes cup shaping that is custom to your measurements making the end result truly one of a kind made just for you.

As always, the pattern includes construction overview, notes, modifications, charts and progress charts to help you stay on track.

I was privileged to have been part of the pattern testing team for the top version - there is also a bralette version included in the pattern. Céline is truly a great designer to test for as she is so supportive and quick to answer any questions. I hope to be selected again in the future.

Pattern: Diana Bralette
Designer: @celine.knits
Yarn: Gepard Garn Wild & Soft 40% Tussah silk 60% merino wool in colorway Coffee Cream purchased at @theknittingloft

#retiredlife #testknitter #nevernotknitting #joy by @bilvie

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3 months ago

Got a late start on the garden this year and had doubts…
Lots of rain in June, lots of heat in July - it’s going to be a bountiful garden season after all 🌻

Tomatoes have new companions this year and it’s working out swell..

Celeri is thriving, will start picking the outer stalks for cooking and freezing this week. Hope this will allow it to continue growing and producing.

Cucumbers and beans are flowering and will be ready to harvest soon 🥒🫘

Every year the flea beetles get to my garden and eat everything - not this time! Turnips, Swiss chard and beets have been tucked in safe.

I think I have figured out where to plant my basil!🌿

Had to plant the cherry tomatoes in pots!

Potatoes looking good this year.

I see pesto in my future. 🌿

Last year we had a bumper crop of apples. Our trusty Goodland tree putting on a repeat performance. 🍏

Berry patch has produced some blueberries for the first time. 🫐

Flowers are blooming 🌼

Petunias are always a staple.

Begonias on the deck in a shady spot.
Chicken lights up at night! 🔦

First time I’ve been able to save Canna Lily and Ivy from last year. I think I’ll do it again!

Christmas in July - I planted my poinsettia and it’s loving this sunny spot - another first. by @bilvie

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3 months ago

This project had to be kept under wraps for the last year or so. Today is the day @netflixca releases @lhprairie.

A call was sent out last spring by @purlandhank for local knitters and crocheters who were interested in making period pieces for the show. I jumped at the chance of a lifetime, submitted my name and had the absolute privilege of being selected as one of the 15 makers.

The talent pool was intimidating. I hoped to measure up to expectations and standards in the timeline provided. Although I have experience knitting, lessons were learned and this experience helped grow my skillset.

Here are my itty bitty contributions to the handmades possibly worn by some of the characters (not sure what made the cut):

1. Godey’s Nectie knit for Caroline using crochet cotton thread
2. Twin Cities Mittens knit for Caroline using @knittingforolive Heavy Merino in colorway Bark
3. 1840’s Knitted Garter 6 pairs knitted for Laura and 2 pairs knitted for the stunt person using @dererumnatura Ulysses in colorway Cocoa
4. Lonely Forest 2 pairs of socks adapted into slippers by @boylandknitworks knitted for Mary using @sandnesgarn Sunday in colorway 3091

All wool and photo 1, 2 and 3 provided by @purlandhank.

What an amazing experience… I am forever grateful.

#retiredlife #havingfuneveryday #nevernotknitting❤️ by @bilvie

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3 months ago

Pattern release day for the #SimonaCamisole.

I had the privilege if being a test knitter for @aggie_in_stitches. She has written a clear pattern that is easy to follow, great for any level of knitting experience, beginner friendly.

A perfect summer top with beautiful lace hem, invisible bust darts and dainty eyelet details at the neckline and armholes.

Thank you Agnes for including me in the test knitting process. It was such a pleasant experience and I hope to do it again soon.

Pattern: Simona Camisole by @aggie_in_stitches
Yarn: 5/2 mercinized cotton in colourway Cocoa

#retiredlife❤️ #testknit #nevernotknitting #summervibes☀️ by @bilvie

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4 months ago

Finished Objects Friday and designer highlight @mclevq

I visited my sister out east back in February and we took a road trip to Montreal for a yarn crawl. We stopped at 3 shops and as luck would have it, I found some great yarn at each stop! Bonus: I found a sock pattern book from @mclevq at @lamaillerie that I just had to have.

Since then, I’ve done a few test knits but I also sneak in time for non-test knitting. The #linaceae top has been in my queue for about a year, I bought the yarn for it at @lamaisontricotee and it’s fresh off the needles this week. I absolutely love the texture, fit and vibrant color.

Another stop on the yarn crawl was at @lesgarcons.boutique where I bought a skein of their sock yarn. Time to knit some socks.

All 3 patterns I’ve recently finished are from Canadian designer @mclevq who I’ve had the pleasure of test knitting the #bateau tank and #mascaret socks last year. She has written 3 sock pattern books (in French) and many garment patterns available in both French and English. Her patterns are easy to follow with clear instructions and classic designs.

Courtepointe are fun multicoloured socks with a unique hem. I bought the main color yarn at @manitobafibrefestival from @smilingsheepfineyarns in colourway Billie Jean.

Chardon was the first time knitting with black BFL Sock yarn from @lesgarcons.boutique in colourway Moira’s Black Rose. I chose this color in honour of Catherine O’Hara’s recent passing. I learned a new technique with this pattern as well - there is always something new to learn.

Linaceae is a beautiful tee knit with De Rerum Natura Antigone 100% linen yarn in colourway Tilleul. What a great addition to my summer wardrobe. 💛

#retiredlife #nevernotknitting❤️ by @bilvie

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5 months ago

Secret test knit is launched.

#TerraceTee was such a quick and easy test knit, I absolutely love it. The all over pointelle lace is lovely, the yarn is luxurious and the fit is always just right. Thank you @lilykatemakes for trusting me to take part in the process, I’m grateful 💜

Lastly, matching mani is a must 💅

Pattern: Terrace Tee from @lilykatemakes
Yarn: Journey 70% merino, 20% cashmere, 10% nylon in color-way Riverview from @purlandhank LYS

#retiredlife❤️ #testknit #memademay #havingfuneveryday by @bilvie

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5 months ago