Not too long ago I down sized my carry along gadget box into this nifty folca box.
This compact box unfolds to reveal many compartments. Including one that long enough for small Japanese snips, darning needles and a mini crochet hook.
One thing I'd really like to add is a manual row counter. The usual row counters like the katcha-katcha or the barrel ones are just too big.
Recently I was thinking about this dilemma and remembered a counter that came along with some knitting needles and supplies I inherited a few years ago.
This small flat counter fits perfectly into my box but unfortunately some of the numbers have worn off.
This weekend searched the internet hoping to find a new one. My searches on Ebay and Google didn't bring up any sources. When I search the by patent number and found this. The patent was filed in 1941! I had no idea it was that old. Looking at the diagrams revealed that the holes on the underside are there so that it can be slipped onto a needle. It's got to be the predecessor of the barrel counter.
At this point I have no hopes of ever finding another one.
Here's a picture of the Aran.
Although it's not done, it is ready for the next class ... when we'll learn how to sew in the sleeves.
I asked Jean why the saddle is about 1cm off center of the shoulder (more towards the front). She said it's to compensate for how the garment tends shift backwards on the shoulders
The gadget box is great but that Aran is absolutely stunning. Bravo!!
Posted by: Marilyn | April 20, 2009 at 08:27 PM
What a cool box! The sweater looks GREAT!
Posted by: Robin | April 20, 2009 at 10:15 PM
Your box is unique and compact and the Aran is just wonderful! What alot of knitting and well thought out designing you've done!
Posted by: Esther | April 21, 2009 at 01:36 AM
Hi there! You should check out beenotions over at ravelry- she makes fantastic stitch counters like the one you found out of recycled paper- they're fantastic!
Posted by: citizenjess | April 21, 2009 at 09:49 AM
I have been looking for just that sort of gadget box to help me organize my stitch markers, etc.
Your aran is beautiful. I look forward to seeing it once the seaming is complete.
Posted by: Punkin | April 21, 2009 at 11:08 AM
Where did you get that great box? It looks perfect for traveling. And the sweater is gorgeous. Wonderful job!
Posted by: Elizabeth | April 21, 2009 at 02:41 PM
Ditto on where did you get the box? Google shows nothing and eBay Japan is not navigable for a Westerner. You could be RICH! RICH I say. Seriously - you know you can't introduce a knitting wonderfulness and not tell where it came from. Tho I'm thinking we may have to charter a plane. The Aran is just wondeful too!
Posted by: Linda "K" | April 21, 2009 at 04:04 PM
I love that little box! Where did you find it? Because of course I must have one now :)
Posted by: Stacey | April 21, 2009 at 06:56 PM
I have a Morrell stitch counter, also inherited! I might consider trading it for a Folca box ... ;o)
ps - your Aran looks sensational -
Posted by: margaret | April 21, 2009 at 08:18 PM
Melinda - I have a row counter just likeyours except it's all white; I don't use it very much at all because I'm sure I'll lose it. That's too stressful for me, so if you'd like it, I'm happy to mail it to you.
Posted by: Donna | April 22, 2009 at 08:58 AM
Fantastic job on the aran - it is beautiful! See you soon for more knitting :
Posted by: Joni | April 22, 2009 at 04:01 PM
YEs, can you please share where you found that box?
Posted by: SueR | April 23, 2009 at 07:09 AM
You could also use a very-fine-point Sharpie, or a crow-quill pen with India ink, to rewrite the missing numbers on the counter.
Posted by: Mary | April 23, 2009 at 07:33 AM
Hello,
A friend let me know you were looking for a small manual row counter. I have been making double dial ones that attach to your knitting or a stitch marker with a lobster claw clasp. From the looks of your vintage one they may be a good substitute. They are about 2.5 inches long, light weight and made of laminated fancy papers. You can check out sample photos at beenotions on ravelry.com
Posted by: B's Notions | April 23, 2009 at 08:57 PM
The Aran looks wonderful, Melinda. The center cable is nicely balanced vertically -- starting and ending in symmetrical places in the repeat. And a pleasing rhythm of narrow and wide panels.
Glad to hear the reason for the off-center shoulder panels. I wonder if the backward shift applies to all sweaters, or if there's something in particular about heavy Arans or saddle shoulders. . . ? I'm currently designing a sweater yoke and am at exactly that point where I decide where to have the center-top of the sleeves sit. I'd love to hear more about what you learn/have learned on this particular subject!
Posted by: Deborah (aka Mt. Mom) | April 23, 2009 at 11:54 PM
That sweater is really gorgeous! Love how the length works on you as well!
Posted by: madonnaearth | May 04, 2009 at 11:58 PM
What a beautiful sweater!
I also have one of those old stitch counters, and I swear by it! I think the best way to get one is to inherit it. :)
Posted by: aimee | May 28, 2009 at 12:34 PM