It's Just Like Costco

I've heard this phrase about a dozen times in the last few weeks as the new Spring lines keep flowing in. I thought it was rather funny sentiment, until it happened to me.

On Monday, Joann was unpacking the New Spring order from Della Q. She said as fast as she was pulling the packages out, people were buying them, even before she could get them priced. Now, all of you who know Joann, know she LOVES a fine bag. I know, whatever bags I order, Joann, will buy at least one, the funkier, the more artsy the better. She left me a sad note, asking where's her bag. Not to be deterred I reordered on Tuesday. Today, I received more, loving the new line, and earmarking one for myself. By the end of today, I have one left. By the end of class tonight, I had people who wanted more but didn't want to take the last one. You see, they know what's it's like to want to see the "new" item and it be gone. So, don't worry fairhearts... I've ordered more yet again, they should be here Monday. Want to see? I present to you...

Annabelle

As always with Della, you can count on top quality goods. Notice the knit straw on the sides, shell buckle, and silk. There are also 6 purse feet on the bottom to protect the straw from getting dirty. The beauty of this bag, is it's not just a knitting bag, it's a gorgeous Spring Bag. A perfect accessory for the upcoming Spring.

Colors

For all you Purple girls, they are currently sold out. Don't worry though, we're on the list to get them when she gets them in.

The Fabulous Insides

The inside fabric will vary. But each one is more beautiful then the last.

Feel free to call and reserve one. Knitique 916.714.7719. Remember, we ship Daily, so if you aren't one of our local customers, we can easily get one to you.

Want more? As I opened my email today, there was an article from Knitter's Review about the next Della Q product. Clara, reviewed circular needle storage items and has given the Que a great review.

The Que

Color Choices

The Inside View

I love that there are numbered tags.

So what do YOU like in a bag? What are your favorite fibers? Favorite Features? Inquiring minds want to know....


Come on in and see, what's New for Spring... Get excited, fabulous fiber, great patterns, and a fun place to hang out. We can't wait to see you.

Crazy about Cables

Outside Purse Flap View

Introducing one of our Newest Classes: Crazy about Cables

We are excited about the newest offering of classes here at Knitique One of our favorite new classes is is a great intermediate Cabled, Non-Felted purse. Some of the features I LOVE about this purse are: Clean crisp cables, sharp corners, self-lined with knit fabric, and a lining material which allows for the shape to remain intact for many years to come. This is an Advanced beginner/ Intermediate Class. Be prepared to learn a lot during this 2 part series. There is prework involved so expect to jump right in the first night of class (which is 3 hours). You will be learning, intermediate cabling techniques, reading an intermediate cabling chart, lining your bag, icord, as well as assembling this one of a kind bag. Think outside the box color-wise...pink, lavender, turquoise, even yellow for the upcoming spring. Or if you are more traditional, a nice cream would go with just about any outfit. There are 2 spots left in this class. Call us at Knitique 916.714.7719 to reserve your spot today.

Inside Self-lined

Outside Back of Purse

Ballet Anyone?

Sue, one of our most prolific knitters brought this adorable sweater in yesterday.

The Specifics:

Pattern: Minnowknits BALLET #162 QK

DK Wool
Gauge: 24 sts and 32 rows = 4" or 10cm
QuickKnit
Yarn: Cascade Cherub Kaleidoscope Color #991

Cost to make: Less than $16

Time to make: Less than a week start to finish.

If you haven't checked out the Minnowknits patterns, they are adorable and most are VERY quick to make. They've got great options for Spring/Summer garments for little boys and girls. We've got a binder full of their patterns. Adorable, yet quick outfits for babies, kids, and even adults. They have some of the most adorable sundresses I've seen.

Some of my other favorite designs by Jil

Jil Eaton has written over seven books. The first Minnowknits, is out of print. There have been rumors of a reprint. I hope that's true, as it's a well worn copy in my house.

Three Billy Goats Gruff

When I first saw this yarn it was down a runway show at TNNA, the first thought that came to my mind was an old billy goat. As the model sashayed down the runway the crazy wisps of yarn bounced as she walked. The colorway was remarkable, each one a delectable piece of wearable art.

Ozark Handspun is an incredible handspun that has thick slubs and unruly whips flying here, there and everywhere. I love the amazing colors and playfulness of this yarn.

Remember we Ship Daily. Call Knitique at 916-714-7719 and place your order before it's all snatched up.

Today, as people started looking and playing with this yarn, we were coming up with some great creative ideas. Cuffs and collars on a denim jacket, hat and scarf, of course, fringe on a felted bag, hair for a doll, beard for a goat, mane for a lion...the list goes on and on. Then I thought of a great class that's coming up again...the Einstein Class, and thought detachable cuffs and collars on the jacket. Knit one up in Superwash Cascade 220 in a basic color, like black, brown or your current favorite, and make several sets of removable collars and cuffs. Depending on your mood, and what you are wearing this could be a perfect way to stretch the use of your coat.

Be sure to check out our January 15th post for a picture of the jacket. This will be the last time we will teach this class until the Fall. It's a very Popular Class, so make sure to come in and sign up early. We've got 3 slots still available.

Here's a few pictures of finished Einstein Jackets:





It's not just for women. It comes in kid's sizes, all the way to men, and everyone and every size in between.




P.S. For those girls on Wednesday Night, looking for the *NEW* Interweave Socks book, it's on the shelf with the sock yarn. I've got about 3 left and I'll be ordering more early next week. It's Fabulous!

Hop, Hop, Hippity Hop

Come join us tomorrow night, March 8, 2007 from 6-9 to knit a beautiful Easter Basket. There is a little bit of homework. Really, just knitting a garter stitch square. We will hop our way through this once a year class. You've got plenty of time to make one for each of your little loved ones. You need 220 yards of Worsted Weight Feltable Wool, about 50 yds of a novelty(railroad or crystal palace's little flowers work well), appropriate needles, and other knitting accessories. We just got a huge shipment of Lite Lopi, in a wonderful array of spring colors, a perfect price for this project. We have Late Night today, some come on in, and sign up while we still have spots left. This class has a maximum of 8 spots available. Come on in soon while spots last.

Holy Batman..... It's Here!!!

We were so excited to get our latest shipping of Yarntini. If you haven't seen this fabulous Self-Striping Sock yarn, you've got to come in and try it. If you go to Caitlyn's Blog Knot Without my Knitting and scroll down to her January 8th entry you can see a pair done in Gimlet.
Come in soon, while we still have some left. It will be months until we get our next shipment. And yes, we do ship daily.

Join our First Monthly, Monday Night Book Club

Okay, I know that's a mouthful. But we'd love for you to come to Knitique's inaugural

Monday Night Book Club.

The lovely, talented, and especially friendly Teresa, will be hosting this event. Join us Monday, March 26th 6-8pm.

What are we going to read?



I received an advance copy of this book at TNNA. I normally don't have time to read but I definitely couldn't put this book down. It was definitely worth the no knitting time to read. Now if only I could master reading and knitting at the same time. If you've got some tips to help the multi-tasking, I'd love to hear.

If you haven't heard Julie Roberts is going to be starring in this movie, which is set to be released November 2008. Once you read the book, you can see what a perfect job they did in casting her.

We've ordered honestly dozens of this book in the shop. We've got about 5 left, so come on in and join us for a break from reality with other fiber obsessed junkies. We are giving anyone who joins the book club a 10% discount on the Book of the Month.

A short synopsis of the book:
From Publishers Weekly: Between running her Manhattan yarn shop, Walker & Daughter, and raising her 12-year-old biracial daughter, Dakota, Georgia Walker has plenty on her plate in Jacobs's debut novel. But when Dakota's father reappears and a former friend contacts Georgia, Georgia's orderly existence begins to unravel. Her support system is her staff and the knitting club that meets at her store every Friday night, though each person has dramas of her own brewing. It takes a while, but when Jacobs, who worked at Redbook and Working Woman, hits her storytelling stride, poignant twists propel the plot and help the pacing find a pleasant rhythm. (Jan.) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Come for the yarn, stay for the community!!

We LOVE Books!!!

New Books have been arriving almost everyother day for the last week or so. We are on an autoship, so we get atleast a few copies of most of the new books. The above titles are just a few of the new books we've received.

Grumperina has posted on her blog her review on "Favorite Socks" by Interweave Knits. If you are a frequent reader of their magazine, you'll have seen all the Fabulous Socks patterns. They normally have 1 pattern each issue.

Come on in tomorrow, put your feet up, and peruse our library for must haves.

P.S. Jane love the baby toes. He needs some angora booties, to keep his toes warm in the breezy New York winds.
P.P.S. We love seeing where everyone is visiting from. Drop us a line, send us a comment. We would love to know what you are knitting.

Classes, Classes and yes, more Classes

The class schedule has been out for about a week. We have copies of the schedule in the shop or we can email you a copy. I'm trying to figure out how to link the March Calender to the side bar of blog and also put the Master Class descriptions there. If anyone knows how to achieve this, a comment would be ever so grateful.

I think I've figured out how to link it in the messages. Here are the Class Descriptions courtesy of our FABULOUS friend and Monday day girl,Joann.

Thank you to all those who came to Knit and Nosh last night. A fabulous time was had by all. We had tons of food, lots of people and at one point almost ran out of extra chairs. I'd even purchased 4 more chairs that day. The growing community of our shop is incredible.

I feel so blessed to have become part of this. Here's to another fabulous month of love, laughter, friendships and knitting/crocheting.

Come Knit and Nosh with us Tonight!

Our monthly event Knit and Nosh is scheduled for tonight, March 2, 2007 at 5-9pm. Last month we ended up standing room only. I've purchased even more chairs to accommodate the growing crowds.

Feel free to bring something to share. This is one of the most fun socials. Does it get any better than Knitting/Crocheting and Eating?


Don't you just love that knitting crosses gender, and nationality gaps. It doesn't matter where you go in the world, chances are you'll see someone with some string and 2 sticks.

Can't wait to see you tonight!!

Head Bows down in Shame

Okay, I know it's been a while. But we've been really crazy at Knitique this last few weeks. Even though I haven't been posting lots of new goodies have arrived in the shop. I've taken some pictures and will start uploading them later today.

Yarn goodness, Needles and Patterns are everywhere.

I promise we'll be better.

I was wondering though, how often do you think a blog should be updated? Post a comment, let me know what you'd like to see here.
I love to frequent blogs that are updated everyother day or more. Call me nosy, but I love to see what's new in the knitting world.

Coming up soon.... I've almost got a finished object. I'll give more details later.

Super Knit It On Sunday

Is the Super Bowl something you don't particularly enjoy, or just want to get out of the house to avoid all the Super Bowl Craziness? Come join us this Sunday, February 4, 2007 from Noon to 4pm for a Super Knit It On Sunday. This event was inspired by Vickie Howell, host of Knitty Gritty.

We’ll have refreshments, good fun, and put our knitting skills to use for the good cause of your choice. Bring your own project, or come join us and knit a Chemo Cap. You’re welcome to knit from your stash, or to avail yourself of some extra yarn we’ll have on hand at the shop. If you prefer to buy yarn for your charity project, it’s available to you at the event at a discount (a 25% discount). Just make sure you bring the needles. (usually a US 8 or US9 16inch circular and the corresponding double points. We've got Free patterns for both knit or crochet hats, as well as many other types of projects.

Make sure to call the shop to save your SPOT! 916.714.7719

Come Knit and Nosh with Us!

Join us this Friday night for our monthly social Knit and Nosh. Feel free to bring something to share. This is one of the most fun socials. Does it get any better than Knitting/Crocheting and Eating.

See you Friday night, 5-8 possibly 9 or 10.

And not to be outdone....here's a view of some early knitters. I'd love to get more Men to come in and try their hand at knitting. Help them destress as much as we do. My nephew took our last kids class and did FABULOUS!

Something exciting is coming again....

I can't give you all the details, as I don't know when it will arrive....but sometime this week, or possibly early next week, a shipment of our fastest selling yarn will be back in the shop. Who knows how long it will last? If you want to be called, give us a jingle at Knitique 916-714-7719. Here's a few hints of what it is.






And here's something I've made with it...

Finished Projects

Here at Knitique, we've been seeing lots of finished projects. One of my most favorite finished projects is the luxurious 5-stranded afghan. Linda, who's made probably a 1/2 dozen of these blankets, inspired us to try a couple on our own. Come to the store and check out the two I've made. The first one on accident (really!) doesn't match the shop but goes perfectly with my living room and family room. The second I did is a perfect match for the fun light heartedness of the shop. If you've come in on Monday, you've met Joann who actually knit the 2nd blanket. I picked all the colors, so that must count for something.

Here's a picture of Jennifer with just 1 of her two blankets. The first was for her daughter in rich shades of plum. The second blanket was done is a variety of blues in a basketweave pattern. Both of the girls loved their blankets and were tickled pink that their mom had knit them. If you need help designing your own 5 stranded afghan come on in and we will help work our magic in creating your own personalized 5 stranded blanket kit.

Next up Paula's fabulous Skull Hat

My handsome 2nd son B. He is always up for a camera shoot. Don't you just love his green rubberbands?
Once everyone saw the hat, we had other models anxiously awaiting their photo shoot.


Just a great cross reference of who this hat would look great on. It would match nicely with Yorick. Teresa made Yorick for her daughter who's received lots of compliments.
Paula will be teaching a Fair Isle class in February where you could choose to make the scarey skull cap.

Too much time on their hands

You ever wonder what my kids do at the shop?




Who says kids can't have fun with just a plain old felt pen.... and yes it didn't all quite come off for school the next morning.

And it keeps coming

More new lovely yarns are gracing the shelves at Knitique


First up Tofutsies This new sock yarn is from South West Trading Company. There are 15 new colors, all better than the last. One of the most unusual features of the yarn is it contains Chitin (made from Crab and Shrimp Shells). This substance has natural antibacterial properties. So if you've got spouse with "Stinky" feet, Tofutsies may help.



Second up Boku by Plymouth Yarn. This loosely spun yarn is very similar to Noro Kureyon/Silk Garden. 95% wool 5% Silk
Hand wash, dry flat
Or felt it!
50 grams - 99 yards.
4 stitches per inch on size 7 needles.
8 delicious colors. I'm already eyeing one color which has green, blue and brown to do Klaraluund. Wonder Woman's & Lifelong Knitters versions can be seen if you click on the link. I'm concerned about the stripes further enhancing my girls, but am determined to start knitting more items for myself. Saundra finished one last year, and it looks fabulous on her.

Come on in, and fondle the new yarns. Late Night every Wednesday night 6-8pm. Open knitting or crochet anytime the shop is open.

What's New in the Knitting/Crochet World

Classes, meeting people, & being surrounded by colorful displays is how I spent this past few days. I can't even begin to tell you about all the new yarns, textures, patterns and accessories that are coming your way soon.


One of the products I'm most excited about is Skacel Lace Addi Turbos. You read that right. The folks at Skacel have taken our advice serious and will be manufacturing an Addi Turbo with the most delicious points on them. Knit3tog will be a breeze. I believe they should be shipping in March of April. Whenever it is, we will definitely be bringing them to Knitique.


Fibers galore! All kinds of new fibers, pajama yarn from Knit One Crochet Two that is machine washable and dryable. Perfect for the new baby coming into your life, as well as for the oversized comfortable sweater. Crystal Palace has such luscious offerings as Panda Cotton & Bamboozle. Wool, cotton, bamboo, corn, camel, handdyed, space dyed, machine dyed, dye your own......



New patterns from our favorite lines


Oat Couture

Perfect for that special someone in your life that loves to play with dollies. These patterns are gauged just right for an 18 inch doll.

Knitting Pure & Simple, Dovetail, Mari, Keep it Simple & many many more.

It's going to be quite a Spring!!!

Classes, Classes, Classes

New Classes


Knitique's New Class schedule is at the shop and classes are filling up fast. Some are already filled. I wanted to highlight a couple of awesome classes, where you will learn lots of skills which will improve your all around knitting skills.

Einstein Jacket

The Einstein Jacket has been a very popular class. This jacket is designed by Sally Melville . One of the things I love about this jacket is the style of the jacket looks good on EVERY BODY TYPE. The only skills you need are cast on and knit. One of the cool techniques you will learn is a provisional cast on. This Class in on Saturday afternoon's January 27, February 10 & 24, March 10 1-3pm. This jacket can be made in a Child's size thru Adult XXXL.

Triangular Building Blocks Shawl

This is a great class to learn building blocks of color. Any self striping yarn will work well in this. Merino Stripes , Noro and Nashua Wooly Stripes. The small size took 8 Noro Silk Gardens. Beth said when she does it again, she will do the large size which should use 11 Silk Gardens or about 1300 yds. Beth will be teaching this class Saturday, February 3 and February 17, 2007 10:30am - 12:30am.

Mitered Felted Bag

Mitered Square Felted Bag is another great Felted Bag Class, you can use nearly solid yarns like Malabrigo, Manos del Uruguay or to really show off the pattern you can use self striping yarns like Noro's Silk Garden, Crystal Palace's Taos. Beth will be teaching this 2 part class on Saturday, February 24 and March 3, 2007 10:30am-12:30pm.

And I'm off

I'm off to TNNA on Thursday morning. Hopefully the weather won't be too cold. I worry about ice on the wings. Silly, I know, but since I've had kids I worry more about something happening to me. I've always wanted to go skydiving. Both of my sisters have gone, and LOVED it. But, I had kids early, and I'd hate for them to be motherless too soon, as a result of my penchance for thrills.

I'm planning on taking a class from Nicky Epstein, and Annie Modesitt , plus numerous other classes. Market opens Saturday morning. I'm sneaking in my camera, where I hope to take some great pictures to show you what's new in the yarn business. I've already received some tantalizing postcards from many of the suppliers. What I'm most excited about is finding small Indie companies where I can support women, and local people. Keep your eyes peeled for future news.

New Arrivals

Introducing our Newest Arrival

Erin Madison

7 lbs, 7 oz
19 inches long
13 1/2 head
Dec 27, 2006
11:52pm

Baby Girlie and Big Brother are doing great! Marcus loves being a big brother.

Wishing them a lifetime of happiness and laughter.

The Best Way to Start the Year !

Last year, these diehard shoppers were so excited they were in line before I even got to Knitique . This year the numbers were tripled. With excited eyes looking through the glass front door, I felt like the commercial for Mervyn's, "OPEN, OPEN, OPEN." Armed with 2 boxes of Starbucks, and a box full of muffins, we were ready to start. Fast and furious were the shoppers, stuffing their favorite yarns into the bags. I can't wait to see all the fabulous hand created items the yarn will turn into.
Thanks to all who graced our doorsteps, in the wee hours of the morning. We appreciate everyone's support, but most importantly we appreciate your friendships.

Luscious Lorna

Fresh in from the snows of Chicago, we've got a basket full of Lorna's Laces Angel and the ever popular Lorna's Laces Sock Yarn. Come in quickly as Fran's buying the Angel as fast as we can put it out. Lorna Miser, one of our customers was the founding owner of Lorna's Laces. If you get a chance to check out the names, you'll see local places such as Icehouse, and Jay's pond.

This next week we are going to have a top ten Knitter's New Year's Resolution, I'd love to hear what your New Year's Resolutions are going to be.

Nasty Noro

We've finally received some of our Noro order. We have fallen in love with the Aurora which has a little bit of glitz running through the yarn. I loved the yarn so much that I cast on that night for this peony flower. It's the Peony Flower from the NEW Noni Fall 2006 line. I used a single strand of the Noro Auroro Color #7 on size 10 needles and followed the directions exactly. Speaking of Noni's Designs, we will be hosting the Fall 2006 Collection Trunk Show At Knitique from Friday, December 15th thru Thursday, December 21st. Some people have asked what a Trunk Show is. A Trunk Show allows you to see all the items made up. It is definitley more inspiring than the picture. Come and join us for this much anticipated Trunk Show.

We have quite a few new colors in Noro Silk Garden, Kureyon, Aurora, Transitions as well as the new Silk Mountain (which is a fabulous Boucle). If you have started the Lizard Ridge on Knitty,

http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEfall06/PATTlizardridge.html ,

this would be a great time to pick up some new colors for your blanket.

As always open Knitting and Crochet anytime the shop is open. This Friday is Knit and Nosh. Come Join us, for food, fun, and friends.