On the 3rd day of Kitschmas, I finished the new sweater I had going for Astro. His old one was worn out, and about a week ago I pulled it apart to make into a pattern for this one. Everything was all over my side of the dining room table. So, next on my list, and also to avoid starting on the rest of the grasscloth-papered ceiling, which is torturing me with its call and beckon, I finished my guy’s sweater.
I don’t want to brag: But I did a pretty crummy job on this particular project.
Also: He is not very happy about it.
All that said, when I walk him in town, everybody oohs and ahhs about his sweaters, allowing me to demure, Oh thank you, I made it.
And, I cleaned off the dining room table, which will make DH very happy. Above: Anne Taintor knows how I roll.
The sweater even has a button thingie, which I innovated umm to get the collar to cinch around him better.
The wool is felted — I took an old sweater, threw it in the washer on hot, then dried it on hot, to shrink up the wool real tight. Once it’s felted like that, you can cut it and the ends don’t fray, although I typically do blanket stitch some parts for extra strength and because it looks good and because it’s very relaxing to blanket stitch.
As I recall, I kinda made this pattern up by trial and error. I stitch everything together with yarn. I am quite proud of how I used the cuff-ends to create the sleeves for his front legs.
Please note, and I am sorry if this is going to stir up a controversy, but I am very pro-ugly Christmas sweaters. I don’t actually own one, and now neither does my dog. But I think they are wonderful.
Meanwhile, sweetie Georgia Peachez surprised me with this miniature schnauzer all decked out in Kitschmas, to thank me for doing the wreath giveaway for so many years now. She shows how: You can kitschmas anything!
Congrats to Heather, who won this year’s wreath — Suzy sent it immediately on its way.
That’s Astro checking out his doppelganger. Astro is going to the beauty salon this weekend. You’d think I’d comb him out for his photo op.
I will also point out that on Day 3 (yesterday) I also made oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
What else can I do to avoid that ceiling? Stay tuned for Day 4, and you will see!
Meanwhile, sweetie Georgia Peachez surprised me with this miniature schnauzer all decked out in Kitschmas, to thank me for doing the wreath giveaway for so many years now. She shows how: You can kitschmas anything!
Congrats to Heather, who won this year’s wreath — Suzy sent it immediately on its way.
That’s Astro checking out his doppelganger. Astro is going to the beauty salon this weekend. You’d think I’d comb him out for his photo op.
I will also point out that on Day 3 (yesterday) I also made oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
What else can I do to avoid that ceiling? Stay tuned for Day 4, and you will see!
Jay says
There’s no end to your talents. Astro looks awfully cute (even if he’s a boy) in his spiffy sweater, especially the shaggy paws in the sleeves. The 12 days of Kitschmas is proving to be quite enjoyable. Just put that ceiling on hold and enjoy the holidays.
Karin says
Astro is sooo cute! Great job on the coat. And thanks for the teasr peeks at the Mahalo Lounge.
CarolK says
Astro looks so cute in his sweater! S/he reminds me a bit of my late, beloved Lucy who I think may have been a Schnachshund.
Carolyn says
Schnachshund! that’s funny!
Lynne says
Astro looks very dapper. I swear, Pam, where DO you find the time???
Pam Kueber says
I had to take a nap today
Karen S says
Astro doesn’t look happy in that first photo but his sweater is cute and so is he. At least he got a handmade sweater from you. I’ve had my Chihuahua for 8 yrs and I’ve yet to make him a sweater–and I’m a knitter! I have no excuse. Merry Christmas Astro and the entire Retro Renovation family.
Barbara says
Pamela,
Oh…I wonder what animals would say ,if only, they could talk!
I’ll start this story for you.
Astro: Are you color blind? Did you not notice me dancing around, sneezing and standing up on my hind legs when, “we” were in Petsmart looking at dog sweaters ? I practically fainted from acting out.
Pamela: I’m just trying to save money. Astro this sweater will keep you warm.
Astro: WARM, IT ITCHES!! ITS TO TIGHT AROUND MY NECK! AND, THIS COLOR AND HAND-ME-DOWN MATERIAL, STOPS NOW!! And, gee, look how happy you are. Would you please…make me a bonnet to match?? I have only ONE DAY OF KITSCHMAS FROM ME TO YOU, look around the house for the best spots to wee-wee!! LOVE YOU!
Barbara
Janet in ME says
Way to go! I can’t believe you had time to do that right now. In that third photo, he does kinda look abashed. As in “don’t even look at me”. So cute! Many years ago, the mother of a friend of my brother knitted my doxie pup a Christmas green sweater, (sized extra long,) with a red collar, and even put jingle bells on the collar. I don’t think Daisy appreciated it either! I think it is forty-five or so years old now, and I still have it! I love Christmas sweaters too, the kitschier the better!
Christine W says
Oh what a cute little Astro Doggie! I had to laugh about you cleaning off the Dining Room table and how happy it would make hubby…it sounds very familiar!!. Love the kitschmas schnauzer and .
jacket too Pam. You are one busy (talented) lady
Steve H says
I love Astro, his sweater and his doppelganger! Your kitchen floor is so immaculate and shiny!
Pam Kueber says
I assure you the floor is not immaculate. It hides the dirt well! I love me my Azrock Cortina Autumn Haze — still available today!
Wendellyn says
Such a cute article. Love your pets, even the kitchie sweaters. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!!