Exercising the old brain

Per my MO, when frustrated with one project, I start another, in this case the Kit + Caboodle tote from Purl Soho. Alas, as with the Essential Tee, there are new techniques to learn: the one-step provisiounal cast-on using scrap yarn and stitch patterns for twisting right and left. I am getting a bit smarter and created a swatch, not for gauge but to practice. Now the tote is underway.

Knitting: See above. Also, the heels are turned on the current pair of socks.
Spinning: I made good progress on the Romney this past week and am ready to ply, ply, ply.

The next spinning guild meeting is about dyeing non-protein fibers. I am not an expert in this topic, but decided one way to teach it would be to have a hands-on activity, like tie dyeing. United Arts and Education did not have the tie dye kit that I used before, so I purchased one from Dharma Crafts. WOW! They put this kit together themselves, and it is very complete, which is helping my confidence.

There are six application bottles for mixing color, three colors of dye, a mask (don't want to breathe the dye powder), gloves (more protection), soda ash, urea, Dharma Crafts' version of Synthrapol, rubber bands, binder clips, and instructions. What more could I ask for? Now, instead of dreading the meeting, I am looking forward to it.