Presents and Sampling Before Starting

First off, I want to share a couple of great presents I got over Christmas.

For my sewing machine, I got a Bendable Bright Light.

 It was really simple to install and is adjustable or even removable if you are doing something where it is in your way.

Here it is aimed at the presser foot.   The machine is off and so is the light.

Then with the machine still off, I turned  on the light. Wow Nice and bright AND I can aim it right where I need to see.  It is not in my way at all. This will be so easy to use and so helpful for my old eyes.

Next, while visiting the Nana, she watched me weaving.  I finished a scarf but didn't get a picture of it. She loved it and had to have it.  But she pulled out some of her knitting yarn and gave me a lovely skein of Alpaca yarn that has been hand dyed..

The only problem I can foresee is choosing a warp yarn to go with it. The color is more luscious in person.

I have decided that I need to weave a scarf for myself.  I saw this acrylic yarn in a Fiesta colorway in the store and had to have it. It is muted jewel tones and is a lovely boucle yarn. It is a Lion Brand homespun yarn. So, I had to decide on a warp yarn for it also. I had two thoughts in mind. So I put a sample warp of the yarns on the loom and wove a couple of inches. Making a small sample is the best way to decide.

 As you can see I only did a few strands of each, but it is enough to decide.

Perhaps you can see it better in this picture. Since it is for me, I am choosing the brown as my warp thread.  The brown is a Red Heart acrylic yarn called "Cafe Latte" I think it looks nice and warm and it feels soft and comfortable.
Did you notice the change to my blog design?  I decided a look that is cleaner would be easier to read. I welcome your opinion.  I did save the older layout.
Have you made any starts for the year? If so, feel free to tell me about them. I love your comments.

Comments are welcomed. I will reply when possible unless otherwise stated.