Wednesday, December 2, 2009

so hard to write...

It gives me great pain to admit this, but the new edition of Fuzzy Knits will not be ready before the holidays. It's been upsetting me so much that it's taken this long, and I finally had to admit that the stress wasn't healthy for me, and might compromise the quality of my work. This Autumn has been so much busier than I imagined, with Lev running headlong into toddler-hood, and Mr. Mitten working overtime at a new and more demanding day-job.

We really want to take the next few weeks to enjoy the holiday season, visit with family, and wind down from such a hectic few months. (I hope you have the same opportunity.) Then we can get back to work in the new year, and with luck, get the book ready for the next big holiday season. With the pressure off, we should be able to give you the quality of book you deserve.

If you were thinking of giving the new book as a gift this holiday, perhaps you could consider the Festive Knits book instead. If you live in the US, you should even have a little time to order a printed copy. Or, if you don't mind a bit of do-it-yourself craftiness, you can order the download (Ravelry link), print the book out at home, and put it all together into a nice binder. With a bit of yarn and some other supplies for a toy or two, it would make a great gift for a knitter who loves cute critters!

However, I know a few of you were counting on the new toy versions to complete some gifts, and I don't want to let you down. The two posts following this one will have the instructions for the head and ears of the new Mouse and Panda. You will still need to use the original patterns to complete the toy, but I haven't changed these much in the new versions, so you should still get a very adorable toy.

5 comments:

Misty said...

The changes to the patterns are charming! I'm so glad you were able to stop yourself and remember how important it is to enjoy the holidays. We'll all survive waiting a bit longer!

Jacqui said...

I'm sure the new book will be worth the wait. Looking after your family is more important than anything else. Thank you for sharing the new versions of the mouse and panda, they are adorable as always. You always work to a high standard and its appreciated very much. xx

Ludmilla said...

You are just the sweetest person. I love looking at your delightful creations and I even bought a pattern and a booklet. And will probably buy the next, god willing and the boss don't fire me, although I hate sewing and have never knit a one. Have a wonderful holiday season and don't wear yourself out. It's such a short time of the year. No one can do everything.

Catie said...

This is completely understandable - enjoy the holidays!

GodfreyKate said...

I'm looking forward to the new book. Thank you for the generous posting. I'm off to knit chipmunks. With any luck they'll be ready for Valentine's day.