What's New: 8.18.10

I haven't had the opportunity to get outside much during the past two weeks but today's weather sure beats the last 10 days of heat and humidity. While I love summer, fall is a favorite season for me. I love the cooler weather, the absence of mosquitos (we can hope it happens soon), the change in colors, kids returning to school and schedules, and the start of a new knitting season. So far, the yarn and patterns that have arrived at the shop in the last month are pretty inspirational.

In the past 10 years, yarn, fiber and designs have changed dramatically. Yarn and patterns mirror the fashion industry. The same mills that make fiber available to the textile industry, make hanks available to US distributors. The yarn that ends up on your needles is the same product that is used by fabric mills to make garments.

This fall's trends include cables, chunky knits, tweeds, vests, poncho type capes, as well as great accessories. The super long cabled scarf has returned with great, fun to knit cables. I see lots of "comfortable" & "snuggly" knits and the return of sweaters replacing stuffy jackets for the office. Oversize jackets and sweaters will take the chill off fall and keep you toasty in the winter. Stop in and check out all the new books and yarns.

New from Trendsetter is a wonderful wool/acrylic blend with a bit of glitz called Vigna. A perfect, worsted weight yarn for both sweaters and accessories.

HiYa HiYa Puppy Snips have returned-Grab a set for future gift giving. Add one to your knitting bag.

New from Lantern Moon: Magnetic repair kit holder for quick help with any kniting emergency.

Casbah from Hand Maiden/Fleece Artist has been restocked. Great for socks, scarves, and shawls. The cashmere mixed with super wash merino makes a great knit.

Patterns, books and new yarn from Shibui is finally here. We love the new Staccato, is a luscious blend of Merino and silk in bright, hip colors, Staccato creates spectacular fine-gauge projects, eye-catching colorwork, and truly luxurious socks.

Grandview Retreat

There are only a few spaces left for the retreat November 12, 13 & 14. Each participant will receive a GREAT knitting bag filled with goodies. This year's projects include a scarf or a wrap. Students may also choose to make a portion of the wrap as a great cable scarf. The samples are knit in Rowan Como. However, the shop is loaded with lots of other yarns that will result in beautiful accessories. The scarf can be knit in Vintage Chunky for about $45 and the wrap for less than $60. Stop in the shop to check out the sample and yarn possibilities.

Stitch N Pitch

A few tickets remain for the September 19 event. Details on great t-shirts will be available soon. Don't miss your chance to knit at the new stadium.

Class Update

I am working on the fall schedule and we will have some great classes starting mid September. In addition I am considering adding some knit along's to the schedule. A "Knit Along" allows knitters to knit on a similar project with the support of others knitting the project and an expert to help when needed. The cost for the Knit Along will be less than regular classes, meet more often and allow knitters to progress at their own pace. Let me know if you think this concept would work for you? We will start out slow and build to meet customer needs.

The last Kids Camp with Nancy starts tomorrow and continues through Friday. There are a couple of openings. Call the shop to register and hold your place. Kids camp allows kids to knit at their on pace in a fun, nurturing environment. Nancy provides her guidance and kids of all ages LOVE her.

Freebies & Resources

Rainy Day Goods by Mary Helen Cougar has some wonderful free patterns. Check out the socks, bootie socks & lace capelet.

Found these great Emerald Fingerless gloves by black pepper on Ravelry. Pattern is a free download.