Inventory Sale!

It's that time of year again! Only a few days left so let's celebrate with a quick sale in the shop. From now until January 2nd enter code inventory25 and you'll save 25%! Are you getting ready for Selfish Knitting Month? There's a few sweater quantities ready to ship in the shop. Let me know if you don't see what you want and I'll dye it up!

I'm so excited for 2012 and all the projects coming up! One of them is dyeing for WoolGirl's kit- Hansel and Gretel. I'm crazy about the color way! And I'm going to start dyeing fiber again, just a little excited about this. I'm going to try some of my old school techniques and some new school techniques. Yay for what 2012 is going to bring!

cute kids in cute hand knits!

What day is it?

Sorry for the radio silence! Tis the season I think. I've finished up a few things, and started a few new ones. Have I taken pictures? Nope. But I'm blaming the time of year. In fact, I should get back to the warsh rag I'm making of a gift. But I also need to wind up my yarn for the KAL. That's just around the corner! Did you get your yarn yet? I think I'm going with Peacock. A little excited! Also, there's free shipping in the shop today! Just enough time to get some yarn and wrap it for under the tree. Enter SHIPNOW when you check out! Happy weekend!

Gentle Reminder!

Did you read the newsletter? Well catch up!! There's some news you might want to read for tomorrow!

WIP Wednesday

How are you? I've been having some crazy marathon dye days. But it can't be avoided when all the yarn arrives the same day! So with 75% of the dyeing done, I'm starting to breath a little easier. I have managed to squeeze in some knitting, mainly rows on my cardigan. Are you knitting along? Where are you on your sweater? I have about 3-4 inches left before I split for the front and back. It's been the perfect go to, don't have to think and I can just knit!

I'm about to reward myself with a new project...maybe. I have a new yarn and I'm dying to try it out!

Feather Weight is a beautiful fingering weight yarn. 250 yards~2oz, a rustic soft yarn from Wyoming. Similar in make to Cypress Hollow, but softer and a tighter ply. I'm in heaven people! I already have my pattern, Pei, and if I wasn't so tired I'd be casting on tonight! Have you seen the patterns in the Loft Collection? So many to knit! Feather Weight would be a great yarn for these patterns.

Last bit of news: the newsletter goes out tomorrow! It might be towards the end of the day, but it will be going out! The announcement for the new knit along that starts on Winter Solstice, a winner for the KAL (pattern and yarn, just have to sign up for newsletter to qualify), and a secret sale! So sign up to be in the know!

Did you survive the weekend?! I think I'm finally not full...just in time for a 2nd thanksgiving tomorrow with more family! There are some new pretties in the shop. 50% Merino 50% Silk fingering weight, meet Silky Merino. 400 yards, 4 ounces it will make a beautiful shawl!

I think these two skeins are going to be Cladonia when they grow up. I'm a little excited!
This scraggily skein is going to be hit hat when it grows up. These are all mini skeins twisted into one. I love how all the colors look together, so I figure why not make a stripy hat! If you want a full skein of any of these colors, they're at Twisted this week for a trunk show. 100% Falkland sport weight yarn. I have to tell you, it's one of my favorites. The way it takes color is incredible! I'll be at Twisted this Saturday from 1-3, I hope you can stop by and say hello. I'd love to see what you're working on and you can see my sweater! I only have 4 inches left until I split for the front and back. Just a little excited!

Thankful for...

A lot! I am thankful for time with family tomorrow. E is taking the day off, the first time in five years we'll hang out the whole day. The day is going to be filled with cooking, a little traveling, and lots of time with the Oma's.

I'm thankful I have yarn drying and waiting to go to Twisted, where it will be a part of the trunk show I'm doing! You can check it out November 28th-December 4th. A little meet and great with me on Saturday December 3rd from 1-3 too! After this trunk show I should have a trunk show here on the blog. There are so many beautiful samples thanks to my knitters!!

There is new yarn in the shop, Bulkan! Just in time for holiday knitting. Bulkan is aran weight, 80% Merino 10% Cashmere 10% nylon. 100% Soft!! The yarn is perfect for Irish Girlie Knits Comfort Food. The mitts are beautiful!

picture taken by Carrie at Interweave Knitting Lab

Speaking of the shop. For BlackFriday-CyberMonday free shipping! use the code SHIPNOW and your order will ship for free. Thank you all for keeping this little business chugging along!

Stash Local

I had the best time on Sunday at Stash Local in Corvallis! Michele was great for the mini road trip, a perfect navigator. We're already planning the next road trip down. I would love to see more of Corallis, super charming.

Let's see some pictures!!

This is Sonia, and could she be any cuter?! Her store is a treasure. I loved all the fixtures and furniture, Sonia you have fantastic taste! While I was at the shop I kept wanting to cast on, so much inspiration. I did get a pattern for the next sweater. That's right, next sweater. And I got four sweet little buttons (that I forgot to snap a picture of). They kick started a huge chain of inspiration. Spring colors are started!! (and finding her shop on etsy? I want them all!!)

A lovely little trunk show for you! Michele and a friend discussing sons in college in the back ground. I loved watching people put together color combinations for This Little Ziggy. Kits are in the shop!

These three colors Silas, Abigail and Rig are going to be Earth & Sky Shawl, Stephen West's mystery KAL. I am so excited to see that knit up! I'll take a picture next time I see the knitter!

Michele and her beautiful spread of samples. She's been busy! We had a chance to plan a few pattern/yarn ideas for next year too! Stay tuned for that!

Tomorrow a super delayed shipment of yarn arrives so it's the focus until it's dyed and ready to deliver to shops. I'm going to try and squeeze a little update in of Bulkan. There's a new color that I'm crazy about!

WIP Wednesday

Howdy! I feel like it's been forever! I think I'm learning that it takes a full week to recover from a show. Especially a show where I drive to california with two young boys and I'm away from home for a week! Yikes, what was I thinking?! So thankful the boys are great travelers! Speaking of, I made them new hats over the weekend. I got the yarn friday night at Twisted and I had to cast on right away. By monday morning I was attaching the ties and giving them a light steam block. Pretty cute right?

Of course you can't really see the hats in this picture, but the boys are pretty cute still.

I also finished the yellow brick road socks, but I need to redo the toes. I decreased too quick and they're actually too small for her wee feet. When I was taking pictures I couldn't locate the project bag, so you can use your imagination. Small socks, go.

The sweater is chugging along, but I don't believe it will be done by thanksgiving. Here's hoping for solstice! I've done the decreases and now I'm just knitting for 7 more inches. It's the perfect knit for picking up and putting down. I'm either knitting or purling. While the rows are long, I just push them back on the needles if I have to stop mid row.

I am starting to out grow the project bag a little, but it's so pretty I don't want to move up yet. I got this bag at Knitting Lab. There's not much in the shop now, but keep an eye on it. She makes quality bags.

I started another quick knit, Xeriscape. I'm a little obsessed! I've been wanting to have a garter project and this is perfect. Somebody tweeted that the red scarf project needed 1300 more scarves by December 15th and I knew which yarn immediately I wanted to use! Thanks to ravelry, I plugged in the yarn stats and came up with the great pattern. Check out red scarf project, it's a great program. Foster care kids have a major place in my heart. I bet you have the perfect shade of red for a scarf too!

And I have to say, this picture has been altered a bit. The yarn is more red in person, not so pink. It's crazy hard taking a picture in the (lack of) light!

Trunk Show coming up on Sunday. If you'll be in the Corvalis area, stop by Stash between 1-4 to party with me and Michele! Lots of samples, yarn and patterns!!

Knitting Lab Round Up

I know it's WIP Wednesday, but there's too much fun to report on from Knitting Lab! I want to start off by saying that the boys were amazing. They were such troopers about all the hotels, eating at all hours of the day, and still great at making friends. We're already planning on making Stitches an even better trip!

So Knitting Lab. If you can go next year I totally recommend it. I'm already planning on being back in the market place. The hotel is beautiful, the teachers exceptional and the market place bountiful! I had such a great time with all the attendees. It was great to have students come in to the market place, being inspired from a class and pick yarn for their next creation.

I had a great time with Rachael on Thursday night. So fun to meet other readers and fans of hers! She was such a doll to hang out and knit and chat with me. I have a million questions I could ask about being a 911 dispatcher. Next time! Then I was double lucky to have Carrie, Irish Girlie Knits, hang out on Saturday afternoon. The market was hopping and she was so helpful to have in the booth! I super hope we can do it again at Stitches, pretty sure we'd be besties if I lived in SF!

I definitely have a few things on the To Knit List. One is another sweater. Crazy, I know! But my Larch Cardigan is cooking along nicely so I know I can do another one. There's a hat I want to make. I also feel the need to knit the boys hats and vests. But when? When shall I find the time to knit all these things?!

This is Comfort Food blocking in the bathroom at the hotel. Nothing like putting some thing off to the last minute! I have a few skeins in the shop, but more is in the mail to me now for dyeing!!

Knitting Lab

Today we are packing the van up and getting ready to head south! I am so thrilled and honored to be a part of Interweave's first Knitting Lab! All the yarn's been dyed/rewound/labeled, just need to pack it up. I'm very pleased with the colors that are happening, I have my eyes on several skeins, we'll see if there's any left over for me!

I'm also crazy excited to be hosting Rachael Herron for a book signing Thursday night! We're kicking the event off with her at 5 pm when the market opens. Major thanks to her for coming and signing books. I'm even going to try and take a picture this time! I'll have all three books from the Cypress Hollow series for sale, and lots of Cypress Hollow Yarn. I'll be bringing my sweater along too, I'm so happy with the progress.

Then on Saturday I'm lucky enough to have Irish Girlie Knits stopping by for a meet up at 12! I'll have all her patterns in stock and lots of samples to try on. You can pick up your yarn and pattern for the IGK Knit A Long, Winter Wonder. I'm going to try to squeeze this KAL in, I have a sample for the booth but need my own! Such a great pattern and feels like a luscious silk hug!

If you're in the area of San Mateo I super hope you can make it to Knitting Lab! The market place is free and I'm bringing some beautiful treasures for your winter knitting!!

Add to your calendar: Trunk Show at Stash Local in Corvalis. Sunday, November 20th, come by from 12-4 and see all the samples and yarn. There will be some specials too! More details when I get back!

A Winner and New Perks

Thank you all for the comments! Super fun to interview Rachael and here what you like about the books. With out further delay.....FishGirl182 is the winner! I'll be emailing you to see what book you need or yarn!

On to the new perks! There's some new happening around here and this is how to play: show off a finished knit using Knitted Wit yarn and get 15% off your next purchase! Bring it to a show, post it on ravelry (send me a link), send me a picture (infoATknitttedwitDOTcom I'd love to show it on the blog!). Easy peasy!

Next fun perk: join the email list for quarterly updates. In the newsletter you'll find out about happenings: shows, new colors, sales. With each newsletter will also come the knit a long project. Each newsletter I'll choose a winner from the email list to get the yarn and pattern! No matter when you join the email list you'll always be eligible! I'm big on the changing of seasons so each equinox/solstice we'll be casting on. Look for the newsletter at the beginning of those months--enough time to get the pattern and yarn to join the KAL. There's a new little sign up spot, on the top right column of the blog. Sign up and be entered to win the winter KAL!!

I am so excited about these perks! Let me know what you think and what you'd like to knit for future KALs! December is just around the corner (that's what it feels like!)!

Feature Friday

Have I got some features for you today! If you are a fan of kits, watch out! I'm happy to say that I'm a dyer for the Crochet Rocks Socks Club! Sign up for six shipments over the next year and you'll get beautiful yarns, clever patterns and some extras! Including year long discounts to my shop! Thank you so much to Melanie, who is also dyeing for the club, for making this connection! I'm so excited about the theme and the luscious yarns I get to use. Sign up while there's still room!

I'm also dyeing for For Yarn's Sake sock club, being released in January I think. The color is amazing if I do say so myself and Sivia Harding is designing for the month!! Lots of love for Sivia! There's a rumor there might be beads!

There's a few more projects in the works, I'll keep you posted!

Because no post is complete with out a cute picture!

WIP Wednesday and an Interview!!

Happy Wednesday everybody! I managed to snap a photo of my Larch Cardigan, I'm almost to the 4" mark where I start the decreases.

I had a great time at For Yarn's Sake with the trunk show. So fun to meet knitters and fans of Rachael's books! There are lots of knitters joining the KAL at FYS, never too late to join. I have an order arriving in a few days to dye up, so pick your person and place the order. I'm crazy about this yarn, really happy with how it's knitting up!

Have you had a chance to pick up Wishes & Stitches? A few people on Saturday had already finished it! I had the chance to ask Rachael a few questions about Wishes & Stitches and about future stories!

Thank you so much Rachael for stopping in and giving some background to your writing. When you wrote How to Knit a Love Song did you have the whole town planned out? Have new couples evolved as each book has been written?

Rachael Herron: Oh, yes, the town evolves as much as my own town does. People move in, and move out, and sometimes the people I write about whom I don't think will matter very much end up being so fascinating to me I can't leave them behind! (I'm thinking about writing about Betty next, a mathematician who makes a brief and ill-used appearance in How to Knit a Love Song. I just can't shake her!)

Lorajean: I totally remember Betty! She seems like she would have a great story! There was a brief mention of Lucy in the first book too. When I read How to Knit a Heart Back Home I was looking for a character I thought would be in book 3 but you tricked me on that! Each book has a knitting project, are these influenced by what you are into knitting at the time or mainly what the story dictates?

RH: They are totally dictated by the story. Luckily, I'm happy to design and knit just about anything, with the exception of lace. I love to knit it--I'm just not as confident about my design abilities for lace. I designed the first two sweaters for the first two books, but when the third bok called for a wedding shawl, I turned to Rosemary Hill of Romi Designs to design a simple, elegant shawl for the book, and I'm so glad she did. It's one of my favorite pieces.

Lj: I love all the knits so far, they're all very comforting. I know Miss Idaho makes an appearance in Wishes & Stitches, do people in your life turn into characters or just the critters?

RH: So far, I just steal the critters. My border collie Clara has a cameo in the first (and second) book, and Miss Idaho appears briefly in a doggie-CPR scene in Wishes & Stitches. I'd like to work my beloved cat Digit in at some point, but he's stubborn and fractious and hasn't wanted to be fictional yet.

Lj: I totally forgot about Clara! And I recall a bunch of readers being very concerned about her at the end of book one. You can read here about her outcome, thanks for filling in that gap! When you're stuck in a spot while writing, what's your go to for problem solving? Drink? Knit?

RH: What a good question. I try not to combine both, that's for sure! (Okay, not very often.) I love to knit in front of mindless television (my favorite shows are Project Runway and the Amazing Race), and for real relaxation, I love to spin (although I don't do enough of that lately).

Lj: I love all these things! But I can't watch Amazing Race with out spazzing out at the end. I feel like everything is timed, like brushing my teeth before I get in bed. My heart is racing a little faster just thinking about it!! I'd love to know a little more about Rig, major crush on that one! Did you have a special source for all the oil rig information?

RH: Rig, the male doctor in the book, made his appearance, and I didn't even know his name at first. He was Hank for a while, but that just didn't work--it wasn't him. I knew he was exceedingly manly but I didn't know how, until his name flashed into my mind, and I knew it was a nickname fro the oil rigs he used to helicopter in and out from. After that, it was just a question of researching in books and on the internet for oil rig info.

Lj:Have there been any story lines cut that you want to revisit? Maybe another little story like Janet and Tom's? (Can you tell I never want this to end?!)

RH: I'd love to write a little short story about Eliza and Joshua. Yep. That's percolating. I love the short stories because they're good for a drop-in, like a short visit with a friend. Yep, there will be more. Thank you for asking, and thank you for loving the books!

Lj: You are super welcome! I can't wait to read more about Eliza and Joshua. Their story has been so tender in all the books. I just about teared up thinking about it!

Please leave a comment about your favorite character from Rachael Herron's Cypress Hollow books, a random winner will be chosen. The prize? One of Rachael's books signed by the lady herself!! If you have all the books then you can pick your favorite character from the Cypress Hollow Yarn! Prizes will be mailed after Knitting Lab (when I'll see Rachael (!!) and she'll sign your book). Comments are open until October 25th. Make sure there's an email so I can get back to you! Again, thank you to Rachael for chatting me up about your books!

ETA! Rachael will be at my booth, #18, at Knitting Lab to sign books Thursday night only. Doors open at 5, be there or be with out a book signed by the lovely Rachael!

Feature Friday

Today's feature is the sale section in the shop! Who doesn't love a sale. I've added a few more skeins of the bulky

and worsted super wash merino. Perfect for a hat or cowl as the weather is turning chilly! Snap these skeins up for $12 while they're still available!

I've been cooking along on the socks, I'm knitting the gussets on each. I think I might just get then done in time for Risa's birthday! I'm also about to bind off on the baby sweater, then I think it's just a button band, easypeasy. I have totally neglected my Larch Cardigan, but that's okay. I have a plan for it tomorrow!

Tomorrow I'll be at For Yarn's Sake in Beaverton! from 11-4 you can stop by and see all the character colors for the Cypress Hollow Yarn. Pick out your yarn for the KAL. FYS is doing Larch Cardigan for their November/December KAL! I'll also have lots of pretty fall colored yarn, a few kits, and lots of luxury fibers! When we're not talking yarn I plan to crank along on my cardigan. I'm just at the beginning so easy to knit and purl while chattin' it up! If you are in the area I hope you can make it out! See you tomorrow!

WIP Wednesday

Wow, never press enter after typing the title of the post. False start!

I actually took pictures to show off my WIP!! I can barely believe it myself! I managed to botch all pictures of my sweater start, but you can see it peaking behind the Yellow Brick Road socks.

I'm going to start on the heel flap tonight! I'm hoping to have both heel flaps done and maybe even start on turning the heel. The sweater is going along smoothly, I'm madly in love with the yarn, and really looking forward to having a sweater knit at a fine gauge. Both projects are reasonably portable and mindless, up until now with the socks.

As I was going through my knitting bag I found a little lingerer! I started this sweater when I was staying at Brooke's for LambTown.

I discontinued the yarn the original sample was in so started up with this one. It's Silky N Plied and a dream to work with. Worsted weight, 60% merino 40% silk. The pattern is Yoked by Hannah Fettig. I sell out of this pattern every show! The pattern is sized from baby (pictured below), all the way up to a 61" bust. The sweater will fit everybody!! And I think it's super flattering for all those sizes. Looks like I just have a few inches to finish this one up. Hmmm, a little tempting to put down the socks and finish this one up!

Feature Friday

Let's look at the new Bulkan, shall we? Bulkan is an aran weight merino/cashmere/nylon yarn, 181 yards/100 grams. There are so many great one skein projects for this yarn. Lots of cowls that will knit in a jiff, perfect for holiday giving!

In fact, Irish Girlie Knits just released a pattern last night, Comfort Food, that is p-e-r-f-e-c-t! I can't wait to pick a color and get it knitted. The cables are super sexy. I kind of want to double the cowl so it can snug down on my shoulders.

Picture snagged from pattern, thank you Carrie!

The Stitches of My Life also has a great pattern for this yarn: Virginia. If you omit the last little repeat one skein is perfect. (tried to steal a picture and couldn't snag one. click on the link and enjoy!)

Hop over to the shop and check out the colors available. There's also some great deals in the sale section. Want to try knitting lace? Snap up a few skeins at $18 for 1,100 yards!! I kind of want to try using some on my cricket loom, I think it would have beautiful drape.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends up North!

WIP Wednesday

I'm so sorry I missed last week! I hit the road Wednesday and thought I could squeeze in a blog post. Not so doable after 5 hours driving in the car with wee ones! LambTown was great, lots of fun. I'm so glad I went and I'm looking forward to next year.

While I was there I got to meet Rachael in person! So exciting!! She got the yarn to start her Larch Cardigan. She is knitting with Naomi, I'm knitting with Rig. The two lead characters in her new book! I've gotten as far as winding my yarn, casting on and I'm working on the first row. I think I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by all the knitting in my future. But one stitch at a time and it will get done!! Where are you at on your sweater?

Naomi

Rig

Also, For Yarn's Sake in Beaverton is doing this sweater for the shop's knit a long in November/December. I think that gives me a little extra time to get the sweater done! Also, I'll be at For Yarn's Sake on October 15th for a trunk show and book release party for Wishes & Stitches! I'm so excited to hang out for the day with some of my favorite yarn in a great yarn shop! If you're in town I hope you can make it out to Beaverton.

Feature Friday

Even though it's OFFF eve, I didn't want to skip my first Feature Friday! But I'm sort of sneaking it out of it. Go over and read Michele's post. Her new pattern is the cutest, then models aren't bad either!

If you're in the area, I hope you can stop by my booth at OFFF. I'm in the same spot-ish, find me behind Lisa Souza's big booth. I have a new set up and lots of pretty yarn. A huge sale is going on too! See you soon!

WIP Wednesday

Yep, it's Wednesday already. I totally spaced on taking a picture of the socks, but here's the update: the candy sock is heal turned, gusset knitting. My goal is to finish the decreases tonight and work on the sock tomorrow. Will they be ready for OFFF? We'll see. They should be good to go for Lambtown at the least! Risa's socks are trucking along. I have two going. One's just finished the ribbed cuff, the other one is further along, but still on the leg. I'm worried that they're too lose so I'm going down a needle size mid calf-ish. I think they'll have a nice cozy fit.

Speaking of Risa, she is starting treatment this week. They'll reevaluate in a few months to see what the treatment is doing. We are being very intentional about holidays this year. I'm feeling a little lost as to what to do. I think I want to make something for Karin, E's mom. I'm going to ponder a little longer.

I've thought of another day to chat on the blog. What do you think about Feature Friday? I'm a little excited! Either a yarn, color way, project, the new happenings around Knitted Wit. I already have a list for this Feature Friday!

Yarn Spotlight

The KAL start date is quickly approaching, how is it the middle of September already! On October first we'll be casting on for Larch Cardigan using Cypress Hollow Yarn. I wanted to tell you a little bit more about the yarn I use.

The sport weight, two ply, Rambouillet yarn comes from Wyoming. The mill that process the fiber, Mountain Meadows, works with farmers through out the state. Each cone that I get has a label telling me which farm it came from. I love tracing my yarn back to each farmer! A sustainable company, creating a sustainable market for wool.

Here's what Mountain Meadow's has to say about their growing climate: "Our fiber factory begins in Wyoming's rugged mountain climate. Because it is so fine, mountain merino yarn is silky soft to the touch, insulates well, and feels delightful next to your skin." I'm happy to say I agree! I've had sample knitters knitting like the wind and they are in love with this yarn. 


I'm getting 30 pounds of yarn to skein up this weekend, just a little excited! I'll be dyeing up some for a trunk show, but also getting yarn ready for the Knit A Long. The big choice I have to make is color. Rachael is going with Naomi. Naomi is the lead in her newest book, Wishes & Stitches, coming out October 11th. I'm thinking Rig, the male lead in the new book. Oh, decisions! What color are you thinking about? 

Naomi

Rig

Pick one for you!

There is still time to place your order for the KAL! Check sizes, pick color and get ready to cast on! 

WIP Wednesday

So I need to find another topic/day to write! Something besides just Wednesday to hold me accountable to writing here. Taking any and all suggestions!

WIP around here are the same old socks. I should take a little progress photo, how about for next week? I'm hoping to have the sample done by then! I have some very strict deadlines to hit so I need to get cracking. 

 But there are other WIP of course. I've been prepping for three shows, I'm winding yarn as I type! I snuck a few new skeins in to the shop, a little preview of the fall colors! I'm pretty sure these two colors need to be stripes in something!!

Go to the shop to see the seven colors available. The 8th is on the drying rack!

I'll be back tomorrow to do a little spotlight on the mill that makes the Rambouillet yarn that I'm using for the KAL.

WIP Wednesday

Well I'm still working on the two socks you've seen so I'll tell you about what's keeping me busy. I've been working on fall orders for a few shops in the area and dyeing up yarn for a few shows coming up.

I'm adding a wholesale show next weekend too! I'm beyond excited and nervous. But really looking forward to meeting new shop owners. So this makes for three shows in three weekends. Just a little crazy!

This is my warning to let you know that I'll be taking the shop down a week from today so that I don't double sell anything while I'm at the first show. I can't guarantee I'll be able to get the shop up between them all but I'll do my best.

I super encourage you to shop now especially for the fall KAL. If you can't pay for it until later in the month that's fine, I just need a heads up so I can have it dyed up and ready to ship. Eeeps! I feel like I'm already running a little late!

Fall KAL

Thank you all for your kind words. My mother in law is doing great with all the testing and uncertainty. It looks like breast and bone cancer, but we won't know more until biopsies are done next week. There's still a chance there's no cancer. I'm thankful that answers are almost here. On to the fall knit a long!

Can you believe it's September?! The weather is changing subtly, giving us a slight preview to the new season coming. All summer I've thought about knitting a sweater and it seems like the perfect season to do it! I picked a sweater, Larch Cardigan. I picked a yarn, Cypress Hollow. Now to pick a color!

The yarn will ship out September 23-26 with a cast on day of October 1st. I'm hoping to finish mine up by US Thanksgiving. I have holiday knitting to do after all! I would encourage you to order your yarn early so I can have it ready to ship on time. It also gives me an idea of how much to order from the mill.

There are four listings in the shop pertaining to what size you'll be knitting. When you check out let me know what color you'd like. If you have any questions about sizing, yarn or colors let me know. Also, if you purchase your pattern before September 5th, all money will be donated to Vermont Farmers that were affected by Irene. You can read more about it here. If you scroll down you can see the destruction left behind.

I hope you'll join me in knitting along this sweet cardigan. I could use the encouragement to keep going! And as a little more motivation lets have some prizes! I'm meeting Rachael at Lambtown (beyond thrilled!) and I'll have her sign a few of her books. If you finish your sweater by Turkey Day you'll be in the running to win an autographed copy of How To Knit A Love Song, How To Knit A Heart Back Home or Wishes and Stitches.

For size 32 or 35

For size 38

For size 41 or 44

For size 47

Now I really need to get down to picking a color!

WIP Wednesday

I'm still working on my sock from last week, almost done with the leg section. If I had more focus I would probably be done already! But every few rows I have to pay attention to a cable and that can prove difficult with the current schedule!

So what to do? Cast on a new project! This one has a very easy start, nothing really requires my attention until the foot. The sock is Yellow Brick Road. I picked up the Yellow Brick Road kit from Jen's garage sale back in July. I picked up a bunch of fun Wizard of Oz treats! They're all going to my mother in law's partner. Her birthday is at the end of October and she is a major fan!! (thankfully she's not uber internet savvy so we can have a big chat about it!)

The yarn is 80% super wash and 20% cashmere, uber soft!! I'm getting really excited to start carrying an MCN that's 70/20/10. The fabric is just beautiful! I'm glad they are so soft, she is going to need a lot of soft lovey things soon. She was diagnosed with RA in late spring and now doctors are looking for cancer. She's been having a lot of tests done last week and this week with no answers yet. I can't tell you how devastated we are to hear the news. I'm trying to remember to wait to freak out until we actually know what's going on, but the fear of not knowing anything is crazy scary.

We've been spending a lot of time up at Oma's summer camp, trying to be a distraction and comfort. I'm so grateful we all live close and are able to help in this small way. I'm also grateful that my life right now allows me to be flexible. Most of my work can travel up there pretty easily.

Thank you for letting me share about this, it was nice to write and have a good cry about it all. I think I've lived a very sheltered life when it comes to disease. Cancer has not been a disease to effect people I know until recently. What a shitty disease.

I don't want to end this way, so I'll tell you about the cute bag my project is in. It's from Katie (also a cancer survivor, I felt it appropriate), I picked it up at Sock Summit! I love the fabric and when I came across some at Bolt I snapped up what they had left.

I'll be back in the tomorrow with details on the next KAL. Think cardigan, think Cypress Hollow Yarn.

WIP Wednesday

And the winner is....Michele! Yay random number generator! I have three skeins of malabrigo for you! Thank you all for leaving comments. There are some beautiful WIP's out there! Here is mine blocking, super excited to be done and sending it to it's new home.

My current WIP is a sock. I'm knitting up a sample for a kit I'm doing!! I'm so excited about this. I love the yarn colors, the patterns and the bag of goodies that comes with it! There are two choices for the yarn. A variegated, which has a spiraling stripe or a semi solid. The semi solid is crazy amazing. I know Michele will want to knit something with the yarn!!

Kit details: one skein of 100% super wash Merino fingering weight, a sock pattern featuring a cable (candy related), a bag with lots of goodies all to do with candy, and candy of course!! Kit cost is $42, will be shipping in mid September. Let me know if you have any questions!

There will be another kit in a few weeks, a great back to school knit! Details soon.

I'm also getting ready for a fall Knit A Long. Are you ready to make a sweater? I am!! I'll be back soon with details.

Flash Sale!!

Umpqua Valley

The shop is hopping with lots of pretty yarns and I want to par-tay! Friday only the shop is 25% off! Use the code FLASH25 to save. The discount is even good for the sale yarns and destash! After Friday all the sale yarns will go back to regular prices. Shop away!!

Hopefully there will be a finished blanket next time I stop in. Of course we're about to hit 90 degrees for the first time this weekend, so we'll see how far I get!

Work In Progress Wednesday

Yep! Just as the title suggests I'm gonna tell you about a couple of projects I'm working on. First up is Summer Wind. I love this pattern, it's a breeze! Ahahahaha, I couldn't resist! Carrie did a great job of writing a pattern that's perfect to work on with all the out door fun. And the finished knit is great too, I've seen a few in the wild. I'll have the pattern available at OFFF.

I'm using Bling in Cedar, there are a few skeins in the shop now, more to come in a few weeks. The handy little bag is from Katie. I love her bags! I snagged a few at Sock Summit and put them right to work. I just saw another one in the shop I super love!

My next project is near and dear to my heart. An amazing friend is battling cancer right now and I don't know what else to do but knit. I'm making this blanket, hoping it will be of comfort to her and her family. She has three beautiful children that love her to pieces. I'm close to the end, I have a repeat and a half to go before bind off. I'm hoping to be done by next Wednesday! I'm using malabrigo worsted, but I can't remember the color. The bag with the calacas on it is from Slipped Stitch Studios. Also, picked up at Sock Summit. I'm a huge fan of Laura and covet a lot from her shop!

The malabrigo was a prize I won from Melanie for donating to a fundraiser. The yarn is not working with my wool allergy so I'm going to have three skeins left over that need a new home. How about you leave me a comment telling me about your WIP's and you'll be entered in the drawing for three skeins!* I'll announce the winner next WIP Wednesday.

*Assuming I don't have to use anymore yarn to finish the blanket : )

New Yarn

Wow. There are so many amazing yarns and fibers in the market place. I had a really hard time narrowing down the list. I've decided not to carry super wash merino worsted and bulky. I'm going with more luxe yarns in those weights. Let's just get to what I am carrying! I copy and pasted so the spacing might be a bit off but have a look:

Shimmer Lace: 80% Merino, 20% Tussah Silk. Dyed in semi solid colors. A perfect

amount of silk shimmer in the yarn for lace

projects. 4 ounces, 1100 yards. Retail $34

Bling: 63% Super Wash Merino, 20% Silk, 15% nylon, 2% Silver,

fingering weight. Dyed in semi solid colors. Great for socks, shawls,

mittens, color work, baby items. 100 grams, 420 yards.

Retail: $28

Cashy Wool: 70% Super Wash Merino, 20% Cashmere, 10% Nylon, fingering weight.

Dyed in semi solid colors. Delicious for shawls, mittens, garments, anything close to

your skin. 4 ounces, 400 yards. Retail: $32

Silky Merino: 50% Super Wash Merino, 50% Silk, fingering weight. Dyed in semi

solid colors. The drape, oh the drape! A wonderful yarn for shawls and highlighting

lace. 4 ounces, 400 yards. Retail: $32

Shine: 50% Super Wash Merino 50% Tencel, fingering weight. Dyed in semi solid

colors. Perfect for shawls or garments, a lovely drape! 4 ounces, 410 yards.Retail:$26

Fingering: 100% Super Wash Merino. Dyed both variegated and semi solid colors. Great for socks, shawls, mittens, color work, baby items. 100 grams, 400 yards.Retail: $24

Sport: 100% Super Wash Falkland, sport weight. Dyed only in semi solid

colors. 4 ounces, 310 yards. Retail: $20

DK: 85% Polwarth, 15% Silk, dk weight. Dyed in semi solid colors. A perfect drop of

silk to give the yarn shine and drape. 4 ounces, 330 yards. Retail: $26

Silky ‘N’ P lied: 60% Merino 40% Silk, worsted weight. Dyed in semi solid colors.

Luscious for garments, beautiful drape, perfect for one skein gifts. 4 ounces, 225 yards. Retail: $28

Bulkan: 80% Merino, 10% Cashmere, 10% Nylon, aran weight. Dyed in semi solid

colors and variegated. The yarn is big and bouncy, a compromise of bulky

+aran=bulkan. Wonderful for a quick knitted gift. 4 ounces, 205 yards. Retail: $28

Spinning Fibers

Merino Knots: 100% Merino. Dyed in semi solid colors. One ounce of

merino fiber for needle felting, felting, spinning or to use for thrumming in

knitting. Retail $3.50

Merino Fiber: 100% Merino, 4 ounces. Dyed in variegated colors. Great

for spinning or felting projects. Retail: $16

Bluefaced Leicester Fiber: 100% Bluefaced Leicester (a specific sheep breed),

4 ounces. Dyed in variegated colors. Great for spinning or felting

projects. Retail: $16

Falkland Fiber: 100% Falkland (a specific sheep breed), 4 ounces. Dyed in Variegated

colors. Great for spinning. Retail: $16

Spinning Socks: 100% Colonial Super Wash Wool, 4 ounces. Dyed in

variegated colors. Great for spinning, won't felt as it is super wash. Retail: $16

Shine BFL: 75% Bluefaced Leicester, 25% Tussah Silk, 2 ounces. Dyed in variegated

colors. The silk adds a beautiful shine to a hard working fiber. Retail: $12

Silk Merino: 50% Merino/50% Silk, 2 ounces. Dyed in variegated colors.

Great for spinning. Retail: $18

Shine Fiber: 50% Merino 50% Tencel, 2 ounces. Dyed in variegated

colors. Great for spinning. Retail: $12

Shimmer Fiber: 80% Merino/ 20% Tussah Silk, 2 ounces. Dyed in

variegated colors. Great for spinning. Retail: $12

Silk Hankies: 100% silk, mawata, 1.5 ounces. Dyed in variegated colors. All the rage,

knit or spin! Great tutorials on line, would make an excellent class topic.

Retail: $18

And the fiber!! When it's possible I'm doing 4 ounce skeins instead of 100 grams. I'm also doing 4 ounces of fiber or 2 ounces instead of grams. More yarn and fiber for your buck! So that was super wordy, I hope you survived. Let me know if you have any questions about the new yarns. I'm going to start placing orders for it next week!

In getting ready for all the new pretty I'm having a sale in my etsy shop. There's a sale section and I've been adding lots of yarn to the shop in general. Thank you for your support!

A little summer fun- a toasted marshmallow at Oma's!

Starting to Catch Up

I took a few days off and what a difference! The only down side is loosing momentum. But I made sure to do a giant chunk of work before the break, just trying to pick up the strings and go again.

Sock Summit. Wow! What an adventure that was. Brooke and her son stayed at my house, and it was awesome. It took me a couple of days to remember she wasn't here and I won't see her until October.

The show was great, and the customers were amazing! I had great feedback on my booth and design. I already have some changes planned for OFFF (take a peek at their new website!). I can't say enough about the customers. I had so many great conversations, so incredible to be around so many talented knitters!

I also did a little shopping and trading! I love all my new knitting totes, but need to put up a coat rack to keep track of them. I bought some patterns to, I can't wait to have some samples knit up for the booth.

If you follow me on Twitter you know I put a call out for sample knitters. I can pay in trade with yarn, leave a comment if you are interested in participating. I'm switching a lot of yarn bases around, I can't wait to have a show and tell with you! Did I show you the sneak peak of fall colors? Go here to have a lookie-lou. You can go here for all the Cascadia colors, they're a little poke at Portlandia!

Next post I want to tell you the deets about the new yarns!

S-A-L-E!!!

I know I owe you a big, giant Sock Summit report, but this is just a drive by blogging. I spilled water on my laptop this morning possibly frying the whole thing. Major ugh! I'm taking it to the doctor tomorrow to learn the full damage. To help weather the expenses I'm having a quick sale in the shop!

A lot of the yarns on sale are discontinued. I'm adding a bunch of new yarns to the line, I'll share more about that next time! There are some sweet deals, silky n single, fingering, worsted and bulky. All marked down 25-33% off. Oh, and some spinning fiber!! So get over there before it's all gone and as soon as I'm right here in techno land I'll be back for a full posting. Thanks for your support!

Sock Summit Festivities

Are you ready to par-tay?! I'm so excited about Sock Summit! I wanted to post some happenings in my booth, I hope you're able to stop by booth #725 and join the fun.

On Friday, from 12-1 Carrie, IrishGirlieKnits, will be signing patterns and having a good time. She'll have copies of her pattern Honey Badger, and I'll have loads of her patterns in stock. Not to mention the perfect yarn to cast on!

a not perfect picture, but this is Summer Winds in Peacock.

On Saturday, from 12-1, I'll be hosting Michele, PDXKnitterati! Michele created a beautiful pattern, Zen Rain, and I dyed up the yarn. Buy the yarn and pattern together and save. At 12:30 we'll have a photo op for all of you who have finished your Zen Rain. I hope you can stop by!

I am just so excited! This is probably the last post, I have some dresses to make, yarn to label, and house to clean. I'll see you at Sock Summit!