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NEWSFLASH: wee sale this weekend and other tidbits

It’s Passport Weekend in town so that means lots of people in town, sipping and shopping. To say thank you to our customers we’re running a special Scott Street Sisterhood sale. Make a purchase in a shop and you get a coupon for 10% in a sister-shop. How simple is that?!

Scott Street Sisterhood Flyer

 

 

What is this very nefarious sounding sister-thingy-hood you ask? Well all our shops on Scott Street are owned by women, so we’ve dubbed ourselves the Scott Street Sisterhood (because I can’t resist a bit of fun rhyming alliteration). Nothing sinister…unless you count plying you with way too much caffeine, tempting you with lovely pretty things and enabling your weakness for all things books and yarn…..I guess we could be considered a wee bit sinister! LOL But we do it with a smile. 🙂

Au revoir Google Reader . . . Bonjour Bloglovin’

Deadline looms. July 1st = we lose Google Reader (sob) and must find other sources for all our blog reading habits. I’m testing out a few: Feedly, Bloglovin or River of News.  So far jury is out but getting our blog set up in Bloglovin because it is the prettiest by far and it’s super easy to discover new blogs.

Follow our blog with Bloglovin

Oh . .  . okay. . .  just a little bit more chattiness . . .  but only because you’re twisting my arm. But I’ll be brief (as I feasibly can when I’m a human chatter-box).

New in shop recently

Noro Silk Garden, Ayatori, Takeuma

Mille Colori 6ply

Ty Dy Cotton

Buttons Buttons Buttons!

Book Group Picks July & Aug

 

How’s that for speed-chatting! I did it. No extraneous info about the pics above either. Not bad!

oooooohhhhhh…… just one more thing……an exciting sneak peek of things to come. Hint: favorite website + expanded classes and KALs in the shop!

Watch for all the details in next newsletter (or just pop into shop and say ‘hey….what’s got ya so excited?’ and I’ll spill the beans. . . secret-keeping not my forte)

No more. I’m done for today. Promise. 🙂 Until next time.

 

Kim

may newsletter

Time to shift with the seasons again. Now thoughts turn to warm weather, lazy summer days, swimming, picnics and parties by the pool. We’re gearing up in the shop for the shift: stocking up on beach reads, kids’ activities and warmer weather crafting. What’s new and interesting you ask? Read on!

Knit that Fit and Flatter!

I’m a sucker for make-over shows or books about figuring out what to wear (huge Trinny and Susannah fan of course). I pour over them, taking mental notes, comparing them to myself to learn how to dress for my shape. But they never really seem to sink in. I feel lost as to what works best for my figure. Never fear… Amy Herzog to the rescue with her debut book, Knit to Flatter.

To sum it up: Simply a-m-a-z-i-n-g! It’s one of the best books on body shapes, what it is, how figure out you’re body type, which patterns to pick and why. Chocked full of great info to demystify not only what to wear, but how to measure yourself, and then pick patterns to suit your body type (top-heavy, proportional, bottom-heavy). The latter section covers how to modify patterns and why. And there’s tons of patterns!

Sweaters with lovely details, front and back; along the sides …

  Classic, wardrobe staple-type patterns that never go out of style.

The germ idea started on Amy’s blog years ago. Then it became popular workshops and now a fully formed book. There’s even a companion Craftsy class online class. I immediately enrolled and love seeing the book demonstrated with live models and Amy’s encouraging, down-to-earth style. It’s just like her popular in-person workshops for those who can’t physically attend a session.

Knit to Flatter Craftsy Class

Recently she started her weekly Fashion Friday blog posts. She picks a topic then uses photos to demonstrate. Like this initial post:

Same outfit just styled differently. How trippy! I love seeing how Amy styles herself and why. Subtle tweaks make a huge difference. A post on sleeves was mind-boggling:

She has several lovely free patterns that helped launch her design career: Vignette and February Fitted Pullover. Oh and just found a 3rd! Kittiwake Cardigan. What great wardrobe staples these make. Be sure to add Amy to your Designer’s To Watch list and check out her book, class or blog asap.

It’s here! Noro Magazine #2

Squeeeeeee!!!  It arrived. The second Noro Magazine that is, just in time for our Noro Yarn Tasting Night (May 23) and the first arrivals of new Noro yarns and colorways (Silk Garden Sock and Takeuma here; Taiyo, Ayatori and Silk Garden due in June) Didn’t expect to see it until June but it came early this year.

Want a peek at a few patterns?

Shawls…. that’s a no-brainer for me in the summertime. The one on the left is screaming to be cast on. The one….well…. looks suspiciously like my last summer’s Noro shawl that’s still (ahem) on the needles. But I’ll get it done this summer! Promise. (I dug it out, dusted it off this week. That’s progress)

Now some of the patterns would not work for my body shape but I love what they’ve done to create cool geometric patterns. [ Actually….that one on the left isn’t half bad for my bottom-heavy/kind of proportional body type, maybe sans horizontal stripes….hmmmm…..click goes my ‘add to queue’ button ]

And of course there is a section on crochet too. Really like the blue cardi!

 

And these!!!!!!

Oh my goodness so adorably sweet. Not sure I’d want to torture a new mom with a hand-knit, hand-wash only in the cashmere blend yarn, Shiraito (which is a dream to knit with…). However I would totally make these in Taiyo, a cotton blend. A yarn that I know for a fact holds up in the washer: This winter my Slip Stitch Cowl somehow, unbeknownst to me, jumped off of my neck into the washer while I was doing laundry. One very vigorous washing later, the edges lay nice and flat, no felting, you could totally see the stitch pattern, and it looked much better than before it’s trip to the spat. A very happy accident for sure.

Noro Yarn Tasting Night: May 23

Have I whetted your appetite for some Noro now? Join us from 6:3-9pm May 23rd to “taste” some Noro yarns – new, old and favorites. We set up swatching stations of Noro yarns, have free patterns available and samples to show off. If you’re wanting to test out Noro  to see what the fuss is about, or a big Noro-head like myself,  head on over that Thursday night. Munchies, libations and maybe a few giveaways on offer.

Berroco Spring Stuff

Most of the new yarns are here: Floret, Maya and Weekends. The rest, Karma, Linsey, Fuji, set to arrive in June created a great collection this year so hard to pick a favorite. All are washable – yep even the silk/cotton Fuji! Color palettes right up my alley, and the pattern booklets full of great patterns. We’re seeing more lace, stripes, and accessories! Several patterns I’m longing to cast on and a few I have!

Weekend: Now in 3 weights: Chunky, Worsted and DK. I adore it for its yardage, colors, durability and wash-ability and price. An acrylic/cotton blend that feels very cottony in a extensive range of shades.

A perfect kid-friendly yarn that is easy wear & care (machine wash and dry). You can easily make a cute summer cardi or even a skirt  and not break the bank. The larger weights tend to be bit heavy knit up, but the new dk version is lovely. Not too thin it takes forever. Not too thick it weighs a ton. Wouldn’t a big old afghan with block in each color be great?! But it’s light enough for warm-weather garments too.

Next up….

Maya: Such a light, scrumptious yarn. A chainette construction in pima cotton with a touch of baby alpaca for softness. Washable….a washable alpaca!

Right now I’m working on Bajada (scarflette on the cover) and despite much operator error (long story involving a day’s wasted effort because I can’t read a pattern properly), I would not give up on cracking this pattern. That’s how much I love this yarn. I prevailed and successfully am on my way (but can’t watch any distracting programs since this lace pattern requires I pay attention).

As for sweaters I’m seriously coveting this little “trifle” called Trifle. Won’t let myself cast it on until I get Bajada finished though. I’m being disciplined with myself…for now. My favorite sweater pattern of the lot. Unique construction (sideways), bit of lace to challenge me, nice shape.

This picture doesn’t do the pattern justice but the 360 degree view does. [Another reason to love Berroco: They use real women, with real bodies as models. Thank you Berroco!]

J’adore the colors! Just can’t decide which to choose. I want a sweater in them all. Adding that to my very long bucket list….

Berroco Fans: Mark your calendars, Trunk Show* season is here

I love it when the boxes arrived filled with beautifully made garments we show off for a couple of weeks. It’s totally worth making a pilgrimage to try stuff on or see the yarns in action. We’re always amazed at how a pattern in real life surprises us. And seriously . . . for someone like me who lives vicariously through others’ finished objects . . . this is like Christmas, Easter and Birthday . . . every few weeks!

Currently in the Shop : Floret  May 9 – Jun 3

 

Future Trunk Show Dates:

Jun 6 – 17: #329 Lago, Captiva, Seduce

Jul 5 – 15: Karma & Weekend #1

Jul 18 – 29: Fuji and Norah Gaughan #12A

Aug 15 – 26: Weekend #2

Aug 29 – Sep 23: Norah Gaughan #12B

*trunk show = finished garments on loan from yarn company for a few weeks so we can play with them to our heart’s delight and play dress up.

Book Group Summer Picks

We have our summer reading picks at the ready! Next meet up May 20th 3pm. Join us if you can.

May 20: While We Were Watching Downton Abbey

Very sweet contemporary novel about a group who meet via Downton Abbey viewings and end up becoming fast-friends, through thick and thin. Like The Jane Austen Book Club, or Friday Night Knitting Group type of read. Perfect light summer, feel-good book.

Jun 17: Clover House

Debut novel about a Greek-American family, now and it’s past. The heroine returns to Greece and her family roots upon the death of her uncle. There she learns about her mother’s childhood during WW2 and the Italian occupation of Greece and family secrets long-buried. Another potentially good summer beach read.

Jul 22: A Lady Cyclists Guide to Kashgar

I’ve had this title on my radar since it was published in hardcover last year. Finally out in paperback and thrilled we’re reading it. Actually…I’ll be listening to the audio book on my daily walks to shop in effort to get more books read this summer. It’s another praised debut novel set in 1923 and present day. The past tells of two sisters, missionaries to Kashgar along the Silk Road.  Present day tells of a young woman heading to London, after she inherits an apartment from an unknown woman. The two narratives gradually merge, linking the eras in surprising ways,

Warning: Pet-Peeve Rant Against Publishers Ahead!

Okay… so what’s up with publishers ditching perfectly good covers for so-so, bland ones for the paperbacks? I so prefer the original design to the boring paperback version. In fact this original cover caught my eye and made me check out this book. Once I read the summary I thought, hmmmm gotta keep this on my radar for the future! But it was the cover that was the hook that reeled me in.

It stood out from the thousands I see daily. Covers with photos of women, looking pensively out at the horizon, or with their backs to us; partially cut off or with them running down a corridor looking for something, anything… nothing…  Frankly this paperback cover would not have peaked my interest one iota, Hence I wouldn’t have taken a second look, or ordered it up for the shop, or suggested it to the book group or other avid readers looking for a interesting new novel.  Sigh….. why can’t publisher’s just leave well enough alone! Or at least ask a bookseller what they think before ditching a perfectly good book cover for a boring one that just blends in with all the others!  I’m happy to provide my insights anytime. LOL

Rant Officially Over . . . for Now . . .

New Lotions & Soaps

Time to gear up for warm weather and parched skin. Both these new lines will keep you smooth and comfortable in the months ahead

Oliveraie Collection by Pre de Provence from France. Ooh la la!  Yummy rich lotion, pump hand soap, the richest body butter around and cute little blocks of soap a la Marseille tradition.

Heading into summer our skin becomes super thirsty so this gives is a long, cool drink of water (so to speak). And it doesn’t smell too perfumey so it’s guy friendly too. Made from olives harvested in Provence (wow….so fancy!)….. and no the beautiful packaging with Van Gogh paintings didn’t sway us in the least. (nudge nudge)

 

Verbena Botanicals All natural, hand-crafted line made closer to home, up in Hillsboro, Oregon. We met the couple and their lovely daughter at gift show recently and liked their hand-made with purity line.

Organic goats milk soaps (in the sweetest muslin bags….I’m a sucker for cute little bags….).  We have: Lavender (top), Oatmeal (middle – if the oatmeal lakes didn’t give it away), and (betcha you can’t guess this one….  Peppermint Shock! A super minty fresh scent (Megan’s favorite). Perfect for hot summer days when you need a refreshing cool shower. (Sorry no Coffee Bean soap because as much as I love coffee…not sure I want to bath in it!)

We also have mini bath salts, pump lotions and their healing intensive Heat Wave balm. Perfect for those achy bits, sore spots or mad muscles. It’s gentle and safe for everyone…even children. I’m using it on my muscles that doth protest too much after my swim workout.

Whew….. this was a long one. But lots to catch up with so hope this tides you over until next month! Happy Memorial Day and Welcome Summer.

Kim

really….spring is here?

 

Yep, calendar now flipped to April (gasp!)  and I’m once again woefully behind. But you know…I’m use to it actually. Quite nice back here, way behind, languishing under a pile of unfinished projects, jobs, duties. Would you believe it: my new year’s resolution was to get shorter newsletters out more frequently. . . not doing so well, huh?

But time to focus, focus, focus, …must attend to shop newsletter because we’ve got lots of fun stuff to talk about.

Socks, Socks, Socks Class

Cathy is ready to tackle teaching our Serious Sock Series. We’re talking official, honest-to-goodness socks you’ll wear on your two feet. On dpn’s or circs; one by one, or 2@a time. She can make socks in her sleep and is here to help you too join the Socks Insomniac Knitting Guild . . . .

(just kidding, you won’t get insomnia from taking this class. but you will end up with a lovely pair if basic, cuff down, no frills, warm and toasty stockinette socks).

• When: Apr 20, May 11, May 25th   1-3:30pm  $50
• Supplies: worsted weight yarn; needles to get 5st = 1” gauge, Knitting Pure & Simple Sock Pattern #9728. (all available at the shop and 15% discount when you sign up for the class)

Call or email to sign up for the Serious Socks Series. Seriously….your toes will thank you!

yarn tasting time

Yep . . . you heard me. “Yarn Tasting” as in sipping swatching with a bunch of yarns, or test-driving working up a sample, playing with them. Casting on, ripping out, trying out various stitches gathering up some free patterns to try out. Monthly we’ll have a Thurs night  devoted to playing with yarn with reckless abandon. We’ll clear the table, pile up mounds of prettily wound up yarn cakes and get cracking! 6:30-9pm

Some yarns just don’t say much until you actually knit or crochet them up. In the hank some yarns just feel rough or stiff. But liberate them from their twisted yogic knots . . . and they ripple, shimmer and drape magnificently.

We’ve a bunch of yarns from various lines we stock: Aruacania, Noro, Ella Rae, Berroco. So why not get tasting them!

 

April 11 – Araucania: This line has some lovely summer weight yarns, hence first up on the Tasting Block. It’s from Chile and is the combined effort of a Mother and Daughter duo who focus on hand painted natural fibers, dyed in traditional hand-crafted ways.  Shades are unique, brewed up in the kettle to create wonderful and one-of-a kind color blends.  I just love the names of the yarns: Andalien (ahhhh-dah-leein), Lontue (lawnnnnn-tu-eh) and Panguipulli (pan-goo-pwee-lee) to name a few. We’ve had the Ruca (sugar cane based rayon yarn) this past year and it is a-m-a-z-i-n-g! A sinuous, cool yarn that is heaven on your skin. I’m dying to make a whole skirt of of this stuff for summer. (I know, probably not the most realistic project for a perpetual cast on monster like myself but a girl’s gotta have dreams!)

 

May 23 – Noro: Oh yes . . . one of my favorites. It’s also my secret weapon: all those changing colors help keep my attention span from wandering too far so I can actually finish noro projects! We’ve a bucket load of different Noro yarns to test out. This is a great chance to experience lines we don’t always stock but can special order up for customers looking for a particular yarn. Also we have several (okay…a few more than that) shop samples (because I adore knitting with Noro and can’t seem to stop casting on!). Hopefully the long awaited new issue of magazine will be here by then too.

Jun 20 – Ella Rae: We adore Ella Rae. She’s an Aussie designer and her yarns are great staples. Affordable, great quality and are excellent foundation yarns. Plus she has some yummy luxurious hand-painted merinos. We’ve stocked her Lace Merino for a while (shop samples: Seashore Shawlette and Color Affection shawl both in this yarn). Now this great base is expanded into DK (landing in shop next week), Worsted and Chunky (these will come in later this year-because seriously…come hot weather no one wants to touch chunky yarns).

So mark your calendars: Thurs Yarn Tasting Nights, 6:30-9pm. We can’t serve wine but will have nibbles, coffee, tea and needles. Feel free to bring your favorite needles too to use. And come prepared to cast on!

If well received we’ll branch out and host some Sat afternoons later this summer for those unable to come out on a weeknight

on the bookshelf

This time of year is big for new books. And there’s been so many! I can’t keep up. Here’s my current favs:

Yvette does it again with this companion book to Home Made Winter and the siblings to the big mama book, Home Made. All three are fantastic.

So this pic doesn’t do the book justice. It has the most gorgeous sunflower yellow spine and back! Picture that intense yellow of the lemons…that’s it. I’m gazing at it right now and it makes me so happy.

Rifling through the book makes me feel like I’m there with her, in the summer heat of Provence or the cobblestone streets of Bruges. Biggest surprise: some of the drink recipes totally caught my attention. And jam making! She makes jam making sound totally feasible for someone of my short attention span. No special equipment, quick easy, no problem!

Second favorite cookbook:

This is the 3rd in my favorite slow cooker series by Michele Scicolone. Tried out the Portuguese Pulled Pork last night. (Well, to be honest I used her recipe as inspiration since I never totally follow the recipe exactly. . . .)  It turned out yummy! Her books are great for inspiring different flavor pairings that you might not normally think about. Last night called for a dash of red pepper flakes, paprika and cinnamon. Now the cinnamon must be a Portuguese thing since my Papa always used it in his Linguicia Beans. I could taste my childhood on the plate last night and it was really delicious. Even better today for lunch as leftovers.

If you’re in the market for some new slow cooker books…look no further. These are the bomb!

[Head over to our website to order up copy of any books]

book group

Next up is Band of Angels but Julia Gregson. Historical fiction set amid the Crimea War and the first days of Florence Nightingale’s home for sick governesses and her angels of mercy, some of the first nurses. I’ve read her previous novel, Into the Sun and enjoyed. So this one piqued the group’s interest too.

Next meet up: April 22 3-5ish

[Find and purchase our book group picks on our website]

Until next time!

Kim and Megan

NEWSFLASH ! !

Attention everyone . . .

Our Thursday Nights knit nights shifting to 6:30pm. Just a smidgen . . . not a big change. This allows for us to eat dinner leisurely, no gulping and racing off to maisieblue’s with greasy fingers or dribbling wine down our fronts.

Ingrid? Did you hear what I said. . . ? Hello. . . ? Are you listening?

What about you Katherine? Does a half-hour later sound ok? We’re still all gathering like usual. Just at a much more civilized hour.

Ah, I can tell you’re sad Sophia. But it’s only starting a bit later and  I know you, as an Italian, can totally understand the need for La Dolce Vita at dinnertime.

But Goldie! Please. . . sit like a lady!! We’re a respectable bunch around here. 🙂
See everyone tonight!

a new year dawns

*grrrrr. . .our online bookshop isn’t being nice lately. most of the links to the books don’t work. trying to figure it out and get them working again. sorry everyone*

2012 is put to bed and 2013 has dawned sunny, bright and oh so chilly. Funny how the years do that, come and go so quickly. While Santa couldn’t read my handwriting ( I said “white” Christmas…not “wet” Christmas) we had a lovely holiday season. Now it’s time to think fresh new year. Set some goals. Tackle projects left lying around. Catch up reading the towering stack of books on the nightstand. But first off. . .

building blocks class

Back by popular request, our Building Blocks class. If you long to take your knitting to the next level this is a perfect class. Even experienced knitters benefit from a slew of techniques, tips-n-tricks and working your way through the blocks along with the class.

Each block builds your knowledge and confidence to really cement your skills. The textbook has companion videos(http://knitpurlhunter.com) and tons of useful tips throughout the book. In class we’ll work on a block each session (two sessions a month). Class starts Jan 19 (Sat) or Jan 21 (Mon) 1-3pm with future dates to be determined after the first meet-up. You can sign up block by block or for the whole 6-12 block series. See the website for details or pop into shop for a flyer, sample blocks and inspiration.

Future classes are percolating. Watch for details in upcoming weeks:

Baby Steps Sock: Knit a baby sock in one session from start to finish. You’ll get a clear understanding of the various parts and techniques to then next tackle an adult sized sock. For those who can knit, purl, work in the round on circulars and understand basic increases and decreases. We’ll use a sock yarn so power through, on our way to sock-success.

Thrumming: Cathy will teach an intro into thrumming, a technique of adding tufts of unspun roving as you knit. It creates a dense, soft very very warm end product. Great for mittens and slippers. This class shows you the basic technique. If enough interest we’ll set up a multi-class series to make these boot/ugg/slippers.

Got Gauge? Yes…it is important even though it can be a pain. Learn why and when it’s imperative. How to make a gauge swatch and why you can skimp on blocking that swatch. For most unsuccessful projects, gauge is usually a culprit.

If you’re interested in a class give us call to set aside a spot.

book group picks

 

Jan 21st: White Truffles in Winter. A tale of food and love with this novel about the legendary French chef Auguste Escofiier, the father of modern cuisine, who was torn between his poet wife, Delphine Daffis, and the reckless actress Sarah Bernhardt. Set in the late 1800s Paris. I’ve had trouble keeping in stock but more copies due this week. Dang those great year end reviews! Caught publishers unaware so stock dipped but more coming soon to the shop.

Feb 25th: Girl on the Cliff by Lucinda Riley. Based on how we enjoyed her other book, Orchid House we decided to give this one a go. “Grania Ryan returns to her family home on the rugged, wind-swept coast of Ireland. Here, on the cliff edge in the middle of a storm, she meets a young girl, Aurora Lisle, who will profoundly change her life.” Spans from 1914s Edwardian England to modern day New York. Has a hidden treasure trove of family letters, mysterious foundling child, ballerinas, heartbreak and triumph. How could we not read it! Plus it dovetails nicely with what is next up . . . .

Last few titles we read in 2012

 

a return to downton!

But what January really means is a whole new season of Masterpiece Theater. You know what that means: a return to Downton Abbey Season 3! So pardon me as I indulge myself in a little escapist detour. . .

I’ll be glued to the telly come Sunday night at 9pm for the next 7 weeks. Sadly little knitting gets done since with a new season I dare not look away for fear of missing something. I save the knitting for watching it in reruns in upcoming months.

In preparation for the new season I’ve knitted and re-watched Season 1, Season 2. Then re-watched Gosford Park. To feed my addictions I found another charming little film, From Time To Time. Note the Julian Fellowes and Maggie Smith theme here…Netflix is great for tracking down more movies and then ending up wandering down unexplored avenues to even more new discoveries! Case in point. Said charming little film led me to this previously unknown to me beloved children’s books series: The Adventures of Green Knowe. I adore finding little known children’s books with the Kids and customers. Looking forward to reading aloud with Jordi in the future.

Oops . . . I digress yet again . . . Back to all things Downton. . .

I for one am ready to catch up with the Crawley family as they enter the Roaring Twenties Jazz Age. Here’s a wonderful link: Downton Abbey Etiquette Primer. Tells us the ins and outs of how to talk to an earl and such. Who knew it was so complex to just say hello to the gentry?

Of course publishers are churning out books to help feed our addiction to all things Downton. There’s loads of book lists on the internet now too. When the final curtain falls upon the last episode of season 3, we’ll have plenty to keep us busy while we wait for season 4 in 2014. Yes…there is a fourth and hints that a fifth season is not out of the question. Yeah! But don’t go poking around the internet too much because you’ll find spoilers lurking about future scandals, tragedies and heartbreaks.

You’ll see some of these titles in the shop in upcoming weeks. Something tells me we’ll have a little Downtown shelf soon with all these great books to choose from.

Plenty of books about life below stairs. . .

Cookery books for those wanting Edwardian feasts. . .

History and biographies . . .

Many fictional forays into the era. . .

    

And then to ease ourselves back into the 21st century we’ll have this new book out in April!

Links to follow for even more:

Goodreads Downton Abbey-esque Book List

Mad For Downton Abbey Reading List

If you Like Downton Abbey Book List

one final note. . . eye candy

Some current favorite things in the shop

new mystery series discovered; quasar yarn-yummy; elements yarns-elegant; new baby & toddlers pattern book-knit and crochet 50ish patterns; one pot a day cook book-a recipe for every day of the year; my favorite cookbook of the season: home made winter; fantastic literary-themed knitting book; great new middle reader series; my second favorite cookbook of 2012 and first favorite from 2011: scandilicious and scandilicious baking!

Oh. . . and don’t ask me about Les Mis! I’m still recovering from the emotional onslaught and have the puffy eyes to prove it.  But at least my son didn’t film me sobbing and post it up on youtube!

Enjoy!

check us out on pinterest! some of us love, love, love pining and creating boards. and we get lost for hours! isn’t that fun. 😉

autumn = thinking “holiday”

School begins again and I immediately start counting the days until the return of crisp autumn weather, despite the fact we’re still using the a/c and swimming to stay cool for several weeks more. September October* is the perfect time to start “holiday gifts” to avoid last minute frantic days of rushing to finish things Dec 24.

*disclaimer: the unusually warm temps of september have now bled into october totally throwing off my carefully calibrated sense of time. it’s another 100 degree day and i’m longing, longing, longing for fall to arrive!

**disclaimer #2: two days later from writing above disclaimer and we finally have fallish weather today! i’m so very happy!!!!

Secret Weapons

There’s plenty of patterns and yarns that work up fast, look gorgeous and make you, the hand-crafter extraordinaire, achieve genius status! Amaze your friends and family by using these secret weapons. Your gift giving list will dwindle in no time.

#1: Cowls, Cowls, Cowls:

My favorite weapon for couple of reasons.

• A) It takes half the amount of yarn than a scarf does
• B) Thus half the amount of time to finish!
• C) They are very effective at keeping you warm on chilly days.
• D) They are still trendy and chic, especially when you call them Infinity Scarves (that’s the current stylish lingo)
• E) You can wear while cooking over stove without fear of being set on fire! (and yes….I speak from experience…)

New Inspiration

For 2012 we’re loving these new free Noro patterns: Welted Cowl and Slip-Stitch Cowl. Easy pattern, endless color combos.

The Welted Cowl (left) is super simple: knit in the round, two colors in alternating knit rounds with purl rounds. Make it even easier by using a single color of self-striping yarn. Pattern is very wide…almost too wide. Reduce number cast on and you’ll have a shorter version, more of a neck warmer than big infinity cowl. The fun part is in picking out your colors! Endless possibilities.

With the Slip Stitch Cowl (right) you’ll need to pay a bit more attention to your pattern but once you get a pattern repeat under your belt, it’s smooth sailing. Plus you’ll learn a new technique to boot: slip stitch colorwork that makes you look oh so talented. I’m working up a shop sample in Taiyo, a softer cotton/wool blend nicer on the bare skin than Kureyon. The pattern is good for just the right amount of challenge but not daunting. Loving how the colors pop. It’s like a big colorful kaliedescope for your neck.

Last Year’s Favorites

Last winter I wore our shop sample, Borealis Cowl (right) to death. This one is literally a scarf pattern that I stopped making after 1 hank was used up. I just seamed ends together instead. Viola! Instant Neck Adornment (vs. half-finished scarf left languishing in my knitting basket)

A second well-worn sample last year: this shamefully simple Nanuk Cowl (left). It is SO easy there’s no pattern written up: CO 120, join and knit, knit, knit two balls. That’s it (well, leave enough to bind of….that’s important to remember). Both cowls were great at keeping me snug when the temp in store was bit chilly.

 

now that I’ve recovered from horror of seeing double-double chins… on with rest of newsletter!

#2: Chunky Yarns

Nothing beats big yarn on big needles or a hook. We’re talking size #10-15 needles. Last year’s hits Soufflé and Borealis are back (new colors arrive later in the month), along with brand a new friend Boboli Quick, the big sister to the popular Boboli from last year. BQ (as I affectionately call it) is luscious. It has some rayon so adding a nice weight and drape not found in Boboli (which is light and loftier). And it’s just landed on our shop doorstep this morning. Itching to cast on something new now!

Here’s a free pattern for seamles mittens. Woodhaven is written for three weights of yarn.

I’m partial to patterns for multiple gauges and this one even mixes it up with some trendy colorblocking to boot. Plus it’s using all three yarns: Boboli, Boboli Quick and Borealis…The Three B’s! Drop by shop for a copy or download to get knitting right away. A great fast knit for holiday gifts.
Back on point…

But “chunky” doesn’t always mean literally “thick” yarn. Sometimes it’s a lofty, soft mohair called Cirrus that floats like a cloud but uses #10 needle. Gauge is 3.75st = 1”! That’s amazing. Super soft, lofty and very warm. Cirrus is perfect yarn for warm garments without the bulk. It takes a big needle too so it’s fast! I think you could even get away with…dare I say it… #13-#15 needle if you’re wanting to zoom through a project! Zippity-ippty fast knitting for sure.

Picture a super soft soft kid mohair twined around a strand of extra fine merino. The lacy red Denslow stole takes 5 hanks. The striped Perrault scarf 6 hanks of 4 colors (which could totally be reduced for a smaller scarf or cowl…remember my Secret Weapon #1 tip, cowls?!). The color block arm-warmers, Samber calls for just 2 hanks.

But wait…there’s more! Ryll, cute turban-ish headband uses just 1 hank! (and I bet there’s yarn left over too…maybe even enough for two?) [all patterns above in booklet #323 Cirrus]

Can you tell this is my most favorite fall yarn this year? It’s the one I’ve been thinking about since May when I first glanced upon it. Which pattern have I been anxiously awaiting publication? Why it’s this great vest, Germane from Norah Gaughan #11 using Cirrus.

Cathy worked up a shop sample for us and she loved, loved, loved (!!) working with this yarn. Even in the heat she still enjoyed it. We did up the XS and it used 4.5 hanks. And it’s a generous size so if you think you’d need a big size…think again. That’s why I chose to do an xs,  so you can try on and realize you could do a smaller size than you expected. (love it when that happens) And it’s warm but light weight. Not bulky at all. Like wearing a cloud. *sigh*
If you want to do some freeform no thinking required: grab big needles (#11-13). Cast on oh about 30-40 stitches and just knit, knit, knit all rows. You’ll quickly have a gorgeous stole or scarf in no time. Hmmmmm…… she’s eyeing the pile of Cirrus and contemplating casting on this afternoon at tea time….

#3: Hats, Hats, Hats!

Hats are great. Utilitarian and educational; make great gifts. It’s a perfect next-step project for a novice ready to go beyond scarves. But my most favorite aspect of hats: FAST! The grand-dame of knitting, Elizabeth Zimmermann would make “swatch hats” instead of a traditional gauge swatch. Squares can’t keep your head warm she’d say, but a swatch hat can tell you gauge and be warm. Take care of two birds, one stone. Ah EZ, she was the spirit of practical knitterly efficiency…

Right now I’m eyeing the Watch Cap Pattern as my next cast-on victim. Simple. Basic. Fat Brim. That’s what my men folk like. No faint-hearted brimless hats for them, no sir.

It’s a nice basic rolled brimmed hat pattern. Looks good in solid, heathery, striped or tweedy yarns. Pick your style: crochet, knitted in the round, or knitted flat and seamed. Makes for an excellent gift. Cindy whipped one up using the new Berroco Lodge yarn. I adore it!

Somehow I’ve managed to not cast on . . . yet. But once the mercury drops that’ll change. [Especially since I found new episodes of Midsomer Murders on Netflix! No more swimming on my days off. I’m dreaming of hours with my needles clicking away and drinking endless pots of tea as the death toll rises in little ole merry England with DCI Barnaby on the case. But I digress. . . ]

What if you’re hankering for something  more pretty….feminine….oh so soft…

Dibdin is a sweet lacy beanie sure to keep your noggin’ toasty warm yet stylishly accessorized. Takes 2 hanks of . . . you guessed it . . . Cirrus! My favorite fall yarn. Nice bonus: a free Berroco patttern.

And here’s a few more free patterns: Annatto in Nanuk and Viveca in Flicker. Each take 2 hanks. Both yarns are lovely, lovely, lovely. Nanuk is magical – all my ends weave in perfectly. Flicker is just divine. Smooshy soft with a hint of sparkle.

#4: Leggings Baby! Practical and Easy.

Yearly when temps drop people start asking for certain basic patterns. Legwarmers are always requested. Finally, today I found this perfect free pattern simple called Leg Warmers on Ravelry.

No fuss, no fancy shaping required. No grafting of toes or turning of heels. One hank of yarn (220yds), knit in the round in easy 2×2 ribbing; in no time a pair made to adorn lovely legs of a loved one. Yeah! Toasty calves this winter. It’s also a great way to use up leftover stash when you make stripes or color blocks for a fun pair.

If you’re feeling urge for a wee challenge instead: Silk Garden Sock Leg Warmers. One hank sock yarn, a not-too difficult lace pattern, some dpn’s, and you’re golden.

So that’s a jumpstart on holiday gift creations. Because it will be here sooner than we expect. Believe it or not . . . It’s early October!

Wool Brigade

If you’ve anything to drop off for the troops bring it in asap. We’re getting ready to ship out a bundle to our friend. But if you don’t make this drop-off please still drop things off and we’ll send them as they come in. And thanks for all the lovely things donated so far!

And now for some comic relief…

Sorry…can’t stop laughing so will catch up with you in next newsletter!

Kim

Benevolent Wool Brigade

Normally I’m not one to loudly champion causes in an overtly activist fashion. Lately though, here at the shop, we’re turning our attention towards the whole notion of crafty activism (aka charity knitting and crocheting). Recently the whole Craftivism movement is going strong.  For me personally I like the whole notion of slowing down, making something with my own hands and connecting with people locally to make a difference globally. When we work together to empower others, we also empower ourselves. It’s kinda like a quiet form of craftivism. I like it!

“Knitting for Peace: Stitching to Save the World” by Betty Christiansen

Of all the various books out there about craftivism…I think this is a good one.  It highlights a variety of charities, along with patterns to inspire. The author believes we can “work powerful magic” when we create something for others. Bingo! My thoughts exactly. Here’s a couple of other books to check out:

Craft Activism  and Knitting for Good

Knit Your Bit Movement

As always, I’ve turned to history for inspiration on how to translate this into reality via our shop?  I’ve discovered a wealth of historical info about benevolent crafting efforts (I just love google)! I had no idea what a rich history it is!

There were “wool brigades” during the World Wars but didn’t realize the extent of organization that existed behind the whole “philanthropic handmade movement.” The American Red Cross created the Knit Your Bit campaign and it quickly grew.

“The movement was quick to be noticed by the American public, and launched a full-on nationwide knitting frenzy. Those looking to get involved went to their local Red Cross chapter and purchased 10 cent pamphlet tutorials — complete with knitting patterns, and instructions on how to obtain yarn and package knitware for shipment abroad.”

Okay I’m all for anything that creates a “full-on nationwide knitting frenzy!” But it gets even better….

“Knit-ins and “Knitting Teas” became the trendy social past time for fashionable social butterflies. These crafty gatherings were hardcore. Guests dressed in red, white and blue, with matching decorations and decor… Often, the events would involve competitions, where women would scramble to knit patterns in a half hour or less.”

(quotes from Hello Craft’s “Historical Craftivism: Knit Your Bit article; “wool brigades” from “Patriotic Knitting Bags and Tools of the World Wars” by Karen Ballard, Piecework, Mar/Apr 2012.)

Wow! I love the idea of Knit-ins and Knitting Teas. Right up my alley that’s for sure. Not to mention the healthy competitive spirit this movement inspired. In light of my whole Ravelympics/Ravellenic Games doings…this notion of taking a fun event + philanthropic aims + community gatherings is what Meg & I have been contemplating.

Drum roll please…

Our Benevolent Wool Brigade is born!

We’ve talked about launching a charitable program for a while now. Last year it turned into the Joplin Library Book Drive. This year we want to start our own Knit Your Bit effort. Especially now, after learning about those cool Knit-Ins and Knitting Teas! (I promise not to make anyone dress up though…but love idea of races and friendly games!) And though we may say “knit your bit,” we also mean crochet too.

A dear family friends, Hal and Mary Lou Humber are very involved in sending care packages to the troops. They’ve kindly offered to include any items we make in their shipments. The next big shipment push is for October, just in time for return of winter weather and the holidays – a perfect time to provide a big boost to morale for those overseas.

What to make? Watch caps and lap afghans are perfect. Dark colors (browns, navy, greens…no brights). Scarves, cowls are also good. Winter nights are cold and soldiers on night duty can use all these items to keep warm. Plus we can send other items too: hard candies, baby wipes, tissue, gum, books, face wash… (see this list of often requested items). Personal notes are encouraged too. Troops love to hear from those sending things. Especially during the holiday season.

Need supplies? We’re giving a 15% discount for any supplies purchased. Then bring in any items by Sep 25th and we’ll get them shipped out as care packages for the holidays.

Pattern Links:

Watch Cap Pattern

Easy Hat Pattern

Turn a Square Hat

American Red Cross Historic Knit Your Bit Patterns

National WW2 Museum’s Scarf Patterns

Operation Toasty Toes Patterns

Crochet & Knit Watch Caps

Other Interesting Links:

National WWII Museum New Orleans: Knit Your Bit Scarf Project

Knit Your Bit

girlprinter blog article about her grandmother’s knitting her bit

WW2 Patterns

Top 4 Knitting Charities profiled

Richard Rutt Digital Collection

Stitching a Protest article

 

Current Doings in the Shop

Ravellenics & Olympics (Jul 27 – Aug 12)

Friday is the start of Olympics and that means the start of the Ravellenic Games too. Mass cast on is 1pm PDT Jul 27th! Better get busy prepping my projects….or at least unburying my endless pile of WIPs (works in progress) to enter into the WIPs Wrestling event. It’s going to be exciting. Just discovered you can watch live streaming video of all the Olympics. Check to see if you can too. If not drop by the shop and we’ll knit and watch it together.

Berroco Trunk Show: Big Kids

We’ve got the Big Kids show up in the shop. It’s a great pattern book for anyone with kids in mind, sizes 2T to 12 (35 patterns for $8.25 so also excellent value). It’s here for at least another week and a great chance to see the garments up close and personal.

New Amazing Sugar Cane Yarn

Ruca by Araucania finally arrived. 100% sugar cane (rayon from the sugar cane plant) with jaw-dropping silkiness and drape. Comes in gorgeous solids and variegated colors (some shown below) It’s perfect for summer projects since it’s cool to the touch and feels sinfully wonderful against the skin.

I’m working on a Summer Flies Shawlette for the shop to show how luscious it works up. But I really want to make myself a gorgeous cardigan out of this stuff.  Maybe I’ll be totally crazy and cast on a sweater for the Ravellenics! (yes…I’m crazy unrealistic…but I could do the Cast On Trap Shoot…then I only have to just start it, not actually finish it! hehehe)

Happy Summer Everyone!

Kim and Megan

 

In Loving Memory of Hal Humber (1924 – 2012)

A great patriot and a wonderful man.

funny thing happened on the way to the Stadium…

 

The Games That Shall Not Be Named…..

It’s been a crazy week around here for me. Granted…it’s a positive crazy but crazy all the same. Most of you probably don’t know, I created a Ravelry group/event back in 2008 called the Ravelympics. In a nutshell: it was a way for crafters to challenge themselves while watching the Beijing Olympics. I coined the fun name and came up with a list of “events” we could participate in (like Sock Put, Sweater Triathlon, Afghan Marathon, Baby Dressage etc…) Only a few rules: Challenge yourself and have fun. We all had a mass-cast on (literally from people all over the world) during the Opening Ceremonies in Beijing…and complete (totally finish) our projects by the end of the games. 17 days. A whole sweater….or afghan…in 17 days for example. Pretty challenging, right?

Ravelympics struck a cord with Ravelers and quickly became very popular. Much more popular than I ever dreamed. At the end of 2008 Games, I was flooded with requests for a repeat in the 2010….so we did! It was even bigger and think we had over 12,000 finished items at the end of the event; over 200 teams. Lots of amazing fun times had by all.

Que June 21, 2012. Casey, creator with Raverly (with his lovely wife, Jess) let us know what was in his mailbox from the USOC (US Olympic Committee). A cease & desist letter due to our infringement up their trademark of the terms ‘Olympic’, ‘Olympiad’ or any variations…including ‘Ravelympics.’ They also called for removals of any patterns showing the Olympic rings (also trademarked). If the letter had stopped there, no hue and cry would have ensued. But unfortunately the letter included references to how our little event “denigrated” and was “disrespectful” of our USA athletes hard work and life-time pursuit of their sport.

You can imagine how the Ravelry community, a very tech-savvy, passionate, creative community responded. Loud and Very Annoyed. Twitter was enflamed for days (#ravelympics, #USOC, #socks4Colbert). Within 24 hours the USOC spokesman issued 2 public apologies (1st sort of inflamed the situation; 2nd started to address the crux of issue: their insensitive remarks about knitting etc…) News agencies started running articles (Bloomberg, nytimes, npr, yahoo, usatoday) and my many bloggers, including my favorites, Mason-Dixon Knitting, totally chimed in (3 posts…but June 21 are my favorites!).

I was stunned first, overwhelmed then really hurt. I don’t take the term denigrate lightly. Then as last Wed progressed…I was in awe. The passionate defense from the Ravelry community, and then beyond Ravelry was a sight to behold. Now a week later, we have a new name – Ravellenic Games– and are busy prepping for the start of the London games in a month. I knew Ravelry was special. The camaraderie from all over the globe has brought tears to my eyes.  We continue to be excited about our new name, and our continued quest: Enjoy the Olympic Games, Challenge Ourselves and Have Fun! And the USOC…well they’ve learned to never,  never blithely piss off over 2 million people with pointy sticks!

Mission: Small Business contest

While I was engulfed in controversy over my little event…Megan was busy looking at our shop’s future. She discovered this amazing grant contest, Mission Small Business, and signed us up. It’s designed to help small business entrepreneurs expand their business. For all the details head over here, and if you’d like to “vote” for us, we need 250 votes to be considered for the program. Click the blue ‘Log In & Support’ button; then enter ‘maisieblue’ in the search field.

It’s pretty competitive, but if we can get past the first stage…who knows what could happen? This week I’ve learned that “Great oaks from little acorns grow” and you just never know when fate will take you down new avenues of exploration. Megan and I would be honored if you’d vote for us, in our efforts to create a vibrant business where we can continue to grow into a lovely Oak (with lots of lovely things for our customers to enjoy).

June = WWKiP + Noro Fever = Sale!

June is shaping up to be fun, fun, fun! Not only is it the debut of a new Noro Magazine (more below on this)  it’s also Worldwide Knit In Public week June 9-17th!

What in the World is WWKIP?!

It started out as just World Wide Knit In Public Day several years back. Today it’s become Worldwide Knit In Public Days from  June 9-17th.  (WWKiP for short).

The goal is to promote the community aspect of knitting and the fiber arts. In the past people knitted quietly at home, all alone. This awareness-raising event wants to get us out into the fresh air, mingling with each other and showing off our mad-skills to the world.  I didn’t know there’s this whole stigma-thing with the whole “knitting in public.” Now it explains all the funny looks I’d get while sitting by the pool, knitting on socks!

The goal is to promote the community aspect of knitting and the fiber arts. In the past people knitted quietly at home, all alone. This awareness-raising event wants to get us out into the fresh air, mingling with each other and showing off our mad-skills to the world.  I didn’t know there’s this whole stigma-thing with the whole “knitting in public.” Now it explains all the funny looks I’d get while sitting by the pool, knitting on socks!

Come join us every week, year-round as we get together Thursday nights in the shop from 6-9ish. Bring a project (all crafts welcome). Just be warned: bring an easy project because there’s lots of chatting, distractions and laughing so it’s very easy to mess up and have to repair things once you get home. 😉

The goal is to promote the community aspect of knitting and the fiber arts. In the past people knitted quietly at home, all alone. This awareness-raising event wants to get us out into the fresh air, mingling with each other and showing off our mad-skills to the world.  I didn’t know there’s this whole stigma-thing with the whole “knitting in public.” Now it explains all the funny looks I’d get while sitting by the pool, knitting on socks!

Come join us every week, year-round as we get together Thursday nights in the shop from 6-9ish. Bring a project (all crafts welcome). Just be warned: bring an easy project because there’s lots of chatting, distractions and laughing so it’s very easy to mess up and have to repair things once you get home. 😉

O Noro, noro! wherefore art thou Noro?

We love Noro here at the shop. Glorious, vibrant colors that do the striping for you? What’s not to like! Some find it too woolly (granted Kureyon is a rough, scratchy woolly-bully yarn) but adore the other softer lines (Silk Garden, Taiyo, Karuta) and the sophisticated colorways. It just calls out to us, “cast me on now please!”

Lately I’m like a pig in a mud hole. First came the new books Knit Noro last year. Followed this year by Knit Accessories.

Now it’s the launch of a new magazine! This is heaven for a magazine junkie like myself.  35 new patterns all in Noro!

 

Noro is my “go to yarn” when I need instant gratification knitting. One hank of the sock yarn, some big needles and you’ll have a beautiful scarf or stole with little effort. The yarn “tricks” me to knit longer so I can actually finish something before it’s abandoned for the newest shiny object in my line of vision.

 

The magazine promises a wide variety of patterns too. I’m loving those crochet slippers and look….stuff for guys!

This magazine is a great inspirational jump-start for gift knitting season. I might have to dust off my crochet hook and make up those slippers! So cute in the noro colors. Watch for the magazines to arrive in shop any day now.

In the meantime…here’s a cool pdf booklet all about how Noro is produced, From Farm to Product. The file opens slowly so go fix some tea while waiting for it to pull up…but it’s worth it!

Now for some yarn inspiration and a big reveal at the end (so keep reading!)

Taiyo Yumminess

Alas it’s summer….that means it gets hot and knitting with wool is just no fun when the mercury soars. Never fear This summer we have Noro’s Taiyo yarns to keep us busy!  It’s a blend of cotton/silk/touch of wool. Very soft, nubby but with a cottony feel, perfect for when temps rise. Not woolly at all, or scratchy like other Noro yarns.

 

I’ve made 3 fast shawls with this Taiyo worsted…well I’ve finished one –Down & Dirty. The second is nearly done, Show Your Colors, and the third, Des Marais is hibernating a bit while I decide if I like it.

Big needles, 2 balls and you’ve got a lovely square shawl or even a baby blanket. All garter stitch or throw in few rows of eyelets. Bim, bam, boom! Finished shawl in no time.

My down and dirty Taiyo shawl recipe:

#11 circular needle, 2 balls Taiyo worsted

CO 3. Knit 1 row. *Knit across the row, m1, K1*. Just keep repeating this ea row, always increasing (m1) right before the last stitch every row until 1st ball used up. Then it’s time to decrease: *Knit across the row, k2tog, K1* until you get to last stitch left. Now you’ve got a big square shawl (or lap blanket, baby blanket).

Want a triangle? Use this recipe for Simply Luxury Scarf.

Taiyo Sock

The skinny version of Taiyo is just a lovely as its big sister. Taiyo Sock blends cotton (50%) with wool, nylon and silk. Knit up it has a dry, cotton-hand and no scratchy-scratchies.

Truth-telling time. I did cast on another (that makes it about four shawls…but whose counting…)  Mambu Shawlette in Taiyo Sock and I’m loving it. It’s my t.v. knitting project (well…one of them at least…there are multiples. I should say it’s my current favorite of last few days).

 

It’s a very pointy triangle shawl in a bamboo stitch pattern. Drapes great, light & airy. Perfect for a summer shawlette to throw on when the nights turn a bit chilly, or the a/c is cranked on high.  *disclaimer: that’s not me modeling my shawl by the way, just in case you thought I’d changed my hairstyle, hair color and dropped quite a few pounds….but my colorway #8 is pretty darn close to the model’s:

 

The pattern is in Wendy Bernard’s latest, Custom Knits Accessories. She is probably my favorite designer….ever! All her books are so well worth the splurge because of her fantastic design tips and patterns. If you’re not familiar with her blog, Knit and Tonic check it out and have a gander at her other books: Custom Knits and Custom Knits 2. Then come see me and I’ll wax rhapsodic about her. She’s that good!

Patience is Rewarded

Ta-Da! Let’s have a Celebratory Noro Yarn Sale! From June 9-17th Noro yarns will be on sale. Bring in your coupon and get 15% off your purchase. Help us spread the Noro-Love and WWKiP awareness all at the same time!

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Good for 15% off Noro yarns from Jun 9-17, 2012. Stock on Hand. Online magic coupon: NOROSALE2012 at checkout.

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