Wishful Thinking

I've been considering adding a few variety options to the shop.  Currently, I sell Cunning Hats in four sizes.  They are knitted in acrylic yarn (Vanna's Choice, since that's what has the correct colorways).  I'd like to start knitting them in Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece, a very nice cotton/wool blend that I've been using for my R2-D2 beanies.

My issue is cost.  Right now, to buy Cotton Fleece from most online sellers, it's $8.50-$10.00 a skein.  I can probably make two hats from three skeins, which means $15.00 in materials per hat.  I usually double for my commission, which makes Cunning Hats in cotton/wool at $30.00, plus shipping.  I really hate to charge that much, especially since I don't think they'd sell (my acrylic ones are currently the cheapest on Etsy at $15.00).  Most casual shoppers are more interested in price and appearance over material texture, so the acrylic hats are fine with them.

I would really love to knit a few up to put in the shop, but I can't justify the $30.00 for a "maybe" sale that will probably sit there and expire, rather like ready-to-ship scarves I've had sitting there since January. 

Anyway, what I really want is a place to find Brown Sheep seconds.  I've found a few sellers and those usually go for $4-$6 a skein.  The hard part is finding the right colors.  I need Barn Red, Wild Orange and Gold Dust.  If anyone happens to spot a sale on Cotton Fleece, I'd really appreciate a heads-up. 

Feburary Brainstorming

TMNT
--Beanie with bandana
--Scarf with edge
--Hex-scarf with edge

New Commission!

I've made my first sale on Etsy!  Now, I've had to make a new commission link to my Jayne Cobb "Cunning" hat.  Must admit, I'm very excited about this.

Jayne Cobb's Cunning Hat

January Brainstorming ideas:

FiveFingers-friendly ankle warmers
 - elasticized sock yarn
FiveFingers-sized shoe bags
Figure out a barefoot-style logo in colorworking
Tri-force colorwork
Autobots scarf
Serenity illusion scarf - Donate percentage to http://www.equalitynow.org/
Hooded scarf - 4 braid/double cable; 6 braid/3 braid

Illusion ideas:
--hooded scarf/triforce
--TARDIS 6-window block (new scarf)
--Cactar

Slip-stitch Scarf

Materials:
1 ball Lion Brand Casey (or other DK-weight yarn)
One pair #8 needles

Instructions:

Cast on 32 stitches.

Knit two rows.

Begin pattern stitches:
Row 1: Knit 3, yarn to front and slip purlwise, *knit 2, yarn to front and slip purlwise, repeat from * until last stitch.  Slip last stitch purlwise.
Row 2: Knit 2, yarn to front and slip purlwise, *knit 1, yarn to front and slip purlwise, repeat from * until last stitch.  Slip last stitch purlwise.
Row 3: Knit 3, purl 1, *knit 2, yarn to front and slip purlwise, knit 2, purl 1, repeat from * until last stitch.  Slip last stitch purlwise.
Row 4: Repeat Row 2.

Continue in this pattern until desired length is reached.

Knit two rows.

Bind off.