Good morning all! Today is such a beautiful day - if I have to be indoors, at least I'm in a yarn shop.
Attention needle felters! I just received some tools that came recommended by June M. who will be teaching needle felting this fall - see the photos to the right.
Attention crocheters! I also got a nice new book Contemporary Crochet (the photo of which won't upload properly) - very pretty stuff, very elegant. And the Winter 2009 issue of Crochet Magazine. This particular issue is full of Tunisian crochet. We will be offering two classes in Tunisian crochet this fall, so pick up an issue and see what kinds of very cool stuff can be made with this unusual technique.
Speaking of the fall classes, things are coming along. I am still looking for someone to teach kids' knitting - any volunteers?
I finished that one-skein ARTyarns wrap that kept trying to sneak off the needles. It came out very nice, if I do say so myself, despite all its efforts to escape. I actually did most of the knitting Monday - my day off - of which I spent almost 6 hours of playing "hurry up and wait" at the doctor's office and the pharmacy. Thank heaven I had knitting with me - I hate waiting, especially if I have nothing to do and nothing to read but 8 year old issues of Field & Stream. I did the last 5 rows and the bind off sitting in my car in the parking lot of Meijer while I waited - and waited - for the pharmacy to get my prescription filled. Further proof you can knit anywhere, at any time, and that it is truly good therapy, 'cause let me tell you, by the time I had been waiting around for the first 2 hours I was well beyond ticked off. Yet there were no fatalities reported.
Next project - a funky felted tote bag as an example for the felting class I will be teaching this fall. I'm using the variegated turquoise lamb's Pride Worsted and the lime green Fling novelty yarn for the trim. I love the colors - did I ever mention I am a color junkie?
Back to entering the customer database. Till next time, knit happy!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Great new group on Ravelry - support our troops!
I haven't learned how to fully utilize Ravelry yet, but I did find a great new group called Glove-along for the Troops. Their mission is to knit fingerless gloves for U.S. Marines serving in Afghanistan. The group leader is calling for Cascade 220, and I have heaps of it in stock, at least 5 in superwash that would be suitable and 5 in regular 220. The group does not specify superwash, but I think it is probably advisable. Note that Cascade 220 superwash is made without the chemicals some other superwash yarns are made with that may make them flammable. So please - help our troops have warm hands and knit fingerless gloves for them. Go to Ravelry for the details. Semper fi.
I also have K4OT - Knit for Our Troops - in the shop. Patterns are free and available on-line or in the shop. Basically, knit a hat or helmet liner out of a worsted weight superwash 100% wool, bring it to the shop and I will send it to the USO. Socks are also gratefully accepted, especially rather thick socks that will provide cushioning as well as warmth. In order to be used while on duty articles must be wool, as wool is flame resistant and will not melt to the skin. It must be superwash as handwashing will be problematic for our troops. Brown Sheep tells me that their superwash is chemically treated, and may be somewhat flammable, so I am recommending 220 superwash.
You are also invited to knit articles that will not be worn on duty. These may be made of any yarn, but practically speaking something soft and comfy is best. Our women in the military would probably appreciate something really comfy and pretty for off duty wear, like a nice scarf or sweater, or some vibrant socks! Guys get tired of wearing the same old same old, too, so interesting socks, hats (especially in some team colors), and sweaters would be fine for them as well. Some non-wool articles for those with allergies are a good idea. Please include the ball bands with all donated articles so the appropriate use may be easily determined.
Note that anyone donating knitted articles to our troops will receive a 10% discount off their next purchase at The Yarn Gourmet when proof of the donation is provided. We are free to enjoy our lives and knit because of their sacrifice.
I also have K4OT - Knit for Our Troops - in the shop. Patterns are free and available on-line or in the shop. Basically, knit a hat or helmet liner out of a worsted weight superwash 100% wool, bring it to the shop and I will send it to the USO. Socks are also gratefully accepted, especially rather thick socks that will provide cushioning as well as warmth. In order to be used while on duty articles must be wool, as wool is flame resistant and will not melt to the skin. It must be superwash as handwashing will be problematic for our troops. Brown Sheep tells me that their superwash is chemically treated, and may be somewhat flammable, so I am recommending 220 superwash.
You are also invited to knit articles that will not be worn on duty. These may be made of any yarn, but practically speaking something soft and comfy is best. Our women in the military would probably appreciate something really comfy and pretty for off duty wear, like a nice scarf or sweater, or some vibrant socks! Guys get tired of wearing the same old same old, too, so interesting socks, hats (especially in some team colors), and sweaters would be fine for them as well. Some non-wool articles for those with allergies are a good idea. Please include the ball bands with all donated articles so the appropriate use may be easily determined.
Note that anyone donating knitted articles to our troops will receive a 10% discount off their next purchase at The Yarn Gourmet when proof of the donation is provided. We are free to enjoy our lives and knit because of their sacrifice.
Check out the loom by Joe's Fiber Tools
Made of recovered exotic woods. He brought it in this morning and I am here to tell you it is gorgeous! If I had time I would take up weaving just to use something so nice. And it's reasonably priced. Come to the shop to see it.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Ha!
Those of you who know me probably thought I'd never figure out how to post photos on this blog, did you? Neither did I, but by George, I think I've got it! Rather easy, actually. (I just jinxed myself, didn't I?)
The new arrivals photo doesn't show much detail, but believe me, I got some nice stuff in this week. I have Kid Merino prints in four colors (more to be added later), Kid Seta in 6 solid colors, Panda Silk DK, which has a free pattern on-line for a lacey little wrap that only takes two balls; of course there's all the Cascade I got in, too.
I have to say my favorite new arrival this week is the Soleil. Soleil is a 100% cotton yarn pre-strung with wood beads and fabric leaves. Not a lot, just enough to give it a little flair. It comes in 5 colors - black, yellow, rose, green, blue - and is only $12 per skein. It is soft, and absolutely intriguing. I wish it had come in sooner, but demand is so high that Trendsetter is having trouble keeping up.
And now some really good news - I found a book wholesaler that carries all sorts of books I have been asked for but unable to get through the 5 wholesalers I have been dealing with right along. Really neat books like Crazy Lace and the Tunisian crochet book that will be needed for the class this fall. PLUS - the Elizabeth Zimmerman books! Ya gotta love books. Now if only Congress would do something really useful and pass a law that requires all instructional books to be spiral-bound...
Alas, I must hie me back to entering customer slips in the database so I can get my email list up and running. Knit Happy!
The new arrivals photo doesn't show much detail, but believe me, I got some nice stuff in this week. I have Kid Merino prints in four colors (more to be added later), Kid Seta in 6 solid colors, Panda Silk DK, which has a free pattern on-line for a lacey little wrap that only takes two balls; of course there's all the Cascade I got in, too.
I have to say my favorite new arrival this week is the Soleil. Soleil is a 100% cotton yarn pre-strung with wood beads and fabric leaves. Not a lot, just enough to give it a little flair. It comes in 5 colors - black, yellow, rose, green, blue - and is only $12 per skein. It is soft, and absolutely intriguing. I wish it had come in sooner, but demand is so high that Trendsetter is having trouble keeping up.
And now some really good news - I found a book wholesaler that carries all sorts of books I have been asked for but unable to get through the 5 wholesalers I have been dealing with right along. Really neat books like Crazy Lace and the Tunisian crochet book that will be needed for the class this fall. PLUS - the Elizabeth Zimmerman books! Ya gotta love books. Now if only Congress would do something really useful and pass a law that requires all instructional books to be spiral-bound...
Alas, I must hie me back to entering customer slips in the database so I can get my email list up and running. Knit Happy!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Happy Thursday!
Good morning! Just a quick post to inform those who inquired about needle felting - the supplies have arrived, including some kits to make Christmas ornaments. I also got in three new books on crochet.
I am starting to get this fall's class schedule worked up. As of right now the classes to be offered include:
Back to work with me. Knit Happy!
I am starting to get this fall's class schedule worked up. As of right now the classes to be offered include:
- Intro to Knitting
- Intro to Crochet
- Intro to Tunisian Crochet
- Intro to lace
- Continental Knitting
- Socks Birgit's Way
- Top-down Sweaters
- The Magic Loop
- Entrelac
Back to work with me. Knit Happy!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Let's twist again...or not
I love knitting in the round. Depending on what you are knitting and the stitch you are using, a Zen-like state can be achieved that allows you to be productive without being focused. Kind of like the sixties....
However - starting the first round is not always easy, especially if you are using double-points. There is a wicked propensity for twisting of the stitches, which one often does not catch until at least one row has been knit and the Mobius effect becomes apparent. Then there is that lovely little "jog" in the edge where you joined the round. There are ways to avoid both these problems.
If you are using double points, cast onto two needles only, distributing the stitches evenly on the needles. Holding the needles parallel to each other allows you to see if the stitches are twisted. When you join the stitches you knit off half the stitches from one needle onto a third needle, the second half onto a fourth needle (the first needle is now "free"), and half the stitches on the second cast-on needle onto your fifth needle. You now have your stitches on four needles, no twisting.
If you are using the Magic Loop technique (socks, etc.) to knit in the round, you probably aren't having any issues with Dr. Mobius, but if you are the same technique applied above will help.
For articles such as sweaters, I like to imitate the Magic Loop method by using a much longer needle than called for and pulling the cable from between the middle of the stitches. This allows you to divide the stitches and see if the stitches on each half of the needle are twisted. Knit off the longer needle with the needle called for, and you are good to go.
Now about that pesky "jog" in the edge. When you cast on add one extra stitch. When you join knit the two stitches from each end together - this eliminates both the extra stitch and the jog in the edge.
BTW, the Cascade shipment arrived! Thirty-three colors of 220, 11 of 220 Superwash, 3 of Eco-Duo. The Eco-Duo is 70% baby alpaca, 30% merino, and so soft and pretty that I sold half of one color yesterday before I even had it unpacked. I believe I will be getting more of the Eco-Duo shortly.
This fall there is a nifty-looking new book coming from XRX on Entrelac. I am going to pre-order it, so if anyone particularly wants a copy let me know now.
Almost opening time - off to work with me. Knit happy!
However - starting the first round is not always easy, especially if you are using double-points. There is a wicked propensity for twisting of the stitches, which one often does not catch until at least one row has been knit and the Mobius effect becomes apparent. Then there is that lovely little "jog" in the edge where you joined the round. There are ways to avoid both these problems.
If you are using double points, cast onto two needles only, distributing the stitches evenly on the needles. Holding the needles parallel to each other allows you to see if the stitches are twisted. When you join the stitches you knit off half the stitches from one needle onto a third needle, the second half onto a fourth needle (the first needle is now "free"), and half the stitches on the second cast-on needle onto your fifth needle. You now have your stitches on four needles, no twisting.
If you are using the Magic Loop technique (socks, etc.) to knit in the round, you probably aren't having any issues with Dr. Mobius, but if you are the same technique applied above will help.
For articles such as sweaters, I like to imitate the Magic Loop method by using a much longer needle than called for and pulling the cable from between the middle of the stitches. This allows you to divide the stitches and see if the stitches on each half of the needle are twisted. Knit off the longer needle with the needle called for, and you are good to go.
Now about that pesky "jog" in the edge. When you cast on add one extra stitch. When you join knit the two stitches from each end together - this eliminates both the extra stitch and the jog in the edge.
BTW, the Cascade shipment arrived! Thirty-three colors of 220, 11 of 220 Superwash, 3 of Eco-Duo. The Eco-Duo is 70% baby alpaca, 30% merino, and so soft and pretty that I sold half of one color yesterday before I even had it unpacked. I believe I will be getting more of the Eco-Duo shortly.
This fall there is a nifty-looking new book coming from XRX on Entrelac. I am going to pre-order it, so if anyone particularly wants a copy let me know now.
Almost opening time - off to work with me. Knit happy!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June's yarn of the Month is....
Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece, 10% off! I read an interesting article in a rep's newsletter today, showing photos of two washcloths knitted with Cotton Fleece. One had been machine washed and dried, and the shrinkage was very minimal. This makes me believe that although Cotton Fleece's label reads "hand wash" that it may be machine washable with appropriate care and if dried flat.
I did not knit a stitch this weekend (Sunday and Monday) - but I did get some yard work done Sunday. Bob mowed the lawn, which had been completely white with cottonwood fluff. After mowing it became a greenish white. I know the rain yesterday may have ruined some picnics, but at least it washed the stinking cottonwood fluff off everything! Speaking of Memorial Day, I am proud to offer a 5% discount on everything purchased by military veterans, active duty personnel, and active duty military dependents, with proper identification. Their service gives us our freedom.
I have a sort of vague idea forming about Thursday nights at the shop. I'm thinking of starting a Happy Hour, where light refreshments will be served. I just have to figure out how this will work with Thursday evening classes. Stay tuned. Bob wants me to convert some of the space behind the white doors to a "man cave" so husbands will have someplace to relax while their wives shop. We even have an extra TV we could use for this. I will cogitate on it....
Well, off to the showers with me. It looks like it is going to be a beautiful day, and is supposed to be much cooler than last week. Knit on!
I did not knit a stitch this weekend (Sunday and Monday) - but I did get some yard work done Sunday. Bob mowed the lawn, which had been completely white with cottonwood fluff. After mowing it became a greenish white. I know the rain yesterday may have ruined some picnics, but at least it washed the stinking cottonwood fluff off everything! Speaking of Memorial Day, I am proud to offer a 5% discount on everything purchased by military veterans, active duty personnel, and active duty military dependents, with proper identification. Their service gives us our freedom.
I have a sort of vague idea forming about Thursday nights at the shop. I'm thinking of starting a Happy Hour, where light refreshments will be served. I just have to figure out how this will work with Thursday evening classes. Stay tuned. Bob wants me to convert some of the space behind the white doors to a "man cave" so husbands will have someplace to relax while their wives shop. We even have an extra TV we could use for this. I will cogitate on it....
Well, off to the showers with me. It looks like it is going to be a beautiful day, and is supposed to be much cooler than last week. Knit on!
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