Here is the next square from the book Granny Square Flair, called Clover.
It is interesting how the pattern develops with each round. While working it I did not see any lines or sharp corners, I only noticed them looking at the photo. It still needs to be blocked, but I’m working on a set up.
I haven’t been redirecting the pumpkin vines away from my path because it has been too hot outside. Now they have engulfed it.
I have yet to see a pumpkin produced from the vines. Maybe they’ll find enough sunlight on their journey.
I had the idea to install an under mount sliding keyboard to a buffet table. This poor table has undergone many modifications as its purpose has changed over the years, and not once was it a buffet table. We purchased it new to be a TV stand, then it became a standing desk, then an electronics table, and now it is going back to being a desk. I purchased a clamp-on keyboard tray as there wasn’t much wood under the drawer to mount anything. Unfortunately the clamps wouldn’t fit under the drawer, and there is a gentle curve to the underside support that makes the right side thicker than the left. Hm. So I chiseled out space.
I used a small pull saw to cut across the grain at the ends of the dado, then used a chisel and mallet to remove the wood between the cuts.
I’m pleased with the modification (which is good because there is no going back now). I can sit and use the keyboard at a comfortable height, or move the keyboard up and stand at the desk if I wish, depending on what I’m doing.
The new bearing that I made for an antique great wheel works! It is slightly longer than the original, but since the maidens adjust separately, the fraction of an inch difference doesn’t affect functionality.
The shaft of the bearing ended up being a little thick. It was a tight fit, but needed to be able to rotate to hold the accelerator wheel as the maiden post was twisted up or down. I used my pocket knife to shave off some of the wood so the bearing could rotate.
I spun for about an hour, working on my yarn width consistency and testing out my new part. It worked just fine! And rotated in the socket when it came time to stop and release the tension on the drive bands. I always lighten the tension between spinning sessions so the bands don’t stretch. I don’t loosen them enough to come off when stationary, which is standard practice for spinners. I can see though, how someone coming along and turning the wheel might be startled by the drive bands coming off or the parts not moving. The bands just need to be tightened before use.
Here is the next square from the book Granny Square Flair, called Rosette. This one had many firsts for me, with construction of the flower and the making of the frame.
I’m hoping it evens out when I block it, which I’ll do in batches. Hm. I could probably start blocking these as I go. My plan is to put them on a grid with pegs, so they all come out the same size, and I certainly can’t put all 50 on at the same time.
Critters and Craft 