The Passing of Chris Hunter

I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news but I found out this past weekend one of our customers, Chris Hunter passed away last Wednesday Night. Chris was a customer that always had a smile on her face. Always had kind words to say, and had an unlimited amount of patience when she had to wait for me or one of the girls to help her. One of her favorite items to knit was a Clapotis. On her last visit to the shop a few days before her passing, she found another yarn that would be just PERFECT for what I believe was her 6th. She is survived by her mother, siblings, nieces, nephews, and her husband, Wayne, who we've seen in the store countless times. I believe her obituary will be in this Wednesday's Sacramento Bee.

If you would like to celebrate Chris' life with us, there will be a graveside service at East Lawn in Elk Grove at 2 pm on Friday, May 2nd. Please wear something hand knit in honor of Chris, and if you have a Clapotis to wear that would be even better.

To say I am in shock would be an understatement. Being in a business where you have such an intimate relationship is a such a joy for me. Being emotionally involved with each person who spends or shares a little bit of their life with me is one of the greatest joys of my business. It is in times like this that I want to reach out, give you each a hug, and tell you how much you personally mean to me.

Chris you will be deeply missed. I will wear my perfume you gave me, and think of our friendship and when I wear my Clapotis, or help others with theirs I will think of you. God Bless You and your family.

Did someone say Socks!

Here at Knitique we've been living, breathing and sleeping socks. Susan and I just bought a Vintage Legare 400 sock knitting machine.
We heard you could knit a pair of socks in just under 30 minutes. We were enthralled. After a six hour private lesson, Susan ended up with one fabulous Ribbed Sock. I ended up with a rewound ball of yarn. So we've been taking turns playing, ripping and yes swearing. But I can do a great picot hem, I've turned a heel successful several times, but that's where it stops. I haven't successfully put it all together. Come in to the shop next week and see if I've made the mirage of socks. It's a great way for us to try out all the fabulous sock yarn that's been coming into the shop.

Next in the lineup, I can't give up the secret but we have a sock yarn company that I've been working with. I've used the yarn, I've loved the yarn, and I can't wait for you to see this incredible Indie dyed yarn.

So come on in while the selection is still Hot, Hot, Hot!!!

Hey, Y'all Come

It's the Friday night Whine-down at Jennings Wine Bar on Elk Grove Blvd. Last month there were about twenty or so of us--some drinking, some not (Danielle wants me to be sure you know that you DON'T HAVE TO DRINK ALCOHOL to join us). Actually, you don't have to knit to join us either. There were some crocheters in our midst and a spare husband or two, not to mention a sister who refused to learn to knit and--well, you get the point. We are not a rowdy group because this is a Wine Bar. De facto it has class, ya know? We'll be there starting about six and we'll go on till...the last drop is drunk and the final row knitted.

This photo is just to whet your whistle (or should that be wet?). It's from our post-New Year's jaunt to South of the Border (thus, the taco chips and hot sauce).

[What'd I leave out this time, Ms Bowen???]

Rolling out of Bed!

What a crazy night of fun last night. Once again Knit and Nosh was a smashing success. Lots of delicious foods were available last night. Cora make a great Chinese Chicken Salad. The Lemon Bars were a success and Susan's ravioli's were to die for. Thanks to everyone who came to visit, eat, or just wanted to stop by. Without each and everyone of you fabulous customers, Knitique wouldn't be the warm and friendly community-center knit shop that's evolved over the last 3 years. We continue to be awed by the support of our community. So three cheers and a hug to each and everyone of you.

We got so many great books in yesterday, because of our successful Knit and Nosh and crazy day at the shop I've already placed a reorder on a half dozen books.

New from the quirky Knitting Style of Claire Garland

Here is what's being said of Claire's newest book. The clear and easy patterns in Knitted Bears are accompanied by stunning photographs that showcase the charming nature of the toys and their mischievous personalities. Each project is created with a wonderful range of soft yarns in gorgeous colors and every single bear includes patterns for their own wardrobe and accessories. There are eight bears in all and the straightforward nature of the patterns combined with inspiration allow readers to create characters that are all their own.
Combines two very popular needlecrafts--knitting and crocheting--to create adorable handmade toys.
Each bear features their own accessories and unique personalities
Every project is beautifully photographed, bringing each bear to life with vibrant color

We'll have a sample in the shop in the next week or so. It's started out nicely and I can't wait to make some of the outfits. Perfect for a Christmas Present for the favorite child in your life.

So stop on by while the selection is still Hot, Hot, Hot. Remember to bring your needles and stay awhile.

Come Knit and Nosh with Us Tonight

Come Join Us tonight for our Monthly Event Knit and Nosh. Whether you are a Knitter or Crocheter, Beginner or Advanced, we've got a spot on the table or couch for you.

I've made my Aunt's famous Lemon Bar recipe, and as Cora can attest to, they are de-li-ci-ous. I've made a fresh new batch last night after the Camellia Stockinette Guild meeting, where I was showcased as the Advertiser of the month. What a wonderful group of women, and yes men. The showcase of what they had created this month was beautiful and inspiring. One of my most favorite pieces was an Afghan inspired by the XRX series North American Afghan, Aran Afghan & the Great American Afghan. It was incredibly beautiful and the creator received a round of applause. It's funny that we have started the Aran Afghan class at the shop. Can't wait to have a completed one at Knitique for everyone to see.

Lot of new books have come in this week. Probably the most popular so far is Stephanie Pearl McPhee aka The Yarn Harlot's newest book of giggles....

The Yarn Harlot strikes again! Best-selling knitting author and humorist Stephanie Pearl-McPhee is back with an irresistible collection of witty observations on how knitting and life wisdom are spun together.In Things I Learned From Knitting (Whether I Wanted To or Not), Pearl Mc-Phee examines age-old aphorisms in light of knitting. From "Hope Springs Eternal" to "A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed" and "Birds Of A Feather Flock Together," Pearl-McPhee casts a fresh, off-beat light on these sayings. Presented in quick, punchy takes, each entry in this book calls out to be read aloud and shared with anyone who enjoys playing with yarn and needles.Pearl-McPhee's observations are hilarious; the situations she describes strike a familiar, "not you, too?" feeling in the heart of anyone who knits. Interspersed throughout the book are her notes on the things that "Knitting is still trying to teach me. . ." That no matter how well you knit, looking at your work too closely isn't helpful. It's like kissing with your eyes open. Nobody looks good that close up.

Also other new books: More Big Girl Knits, Little Box of Socks and about a dozen others. I'd love to show you the covers, but Blogger has decided not to upload them, I'll try again tomorrow.

See you soon, and remember to always bring your knitting or crocheting. If you need a moment of stress reducing fun, have a seat on our comfy couch and craft your problems away.

How Flat are Your Feet at Late Night

Come join me for Late night tonight where conversation, knitting, and community are rampant. We've got a whole load of chairs in the back so when the other areas fill up we've got a spot just for you.

We've had a plethora of new sock yarns come in this week as well as refills of our staples.

I'll just tell you about one of the newest and most fun sock yarns that have come out in a while.

Flat Feet by Conjoined Creations

No skeins, no balls, no tangles and it's completely portable. You simply unravel as you knit. No need to wind into a ball.

Each flat is artistically painted. No other pair will match the flats. These are art socks, one of a kind creations. The unique color pattern is developed as your knit flat is re-knit into a sock.

It's sounds crazy but it's fun. I'll take some pictures tonight, including the Embossed Leaf Socks that I'm knitting out of one of the colors we had custom dyed for us. You won't believe it until you see it with your own eyes.

Take a load off your feet, bring your current new project and join us for a peaceful night of knitting.

New Olympic Sport Announced In Elk Grove Today

The monthly Knit & Drink heats will be held tomorrow night at Jennings Wine Bar, 8351 Elk Grove Blvd.

Contenders will be perched on high stools, sloshing back some very good wine, and seeing who can knit the most while imbibing the most. In fact, the sobriety tests for the evening will have nothing to do with puffing into a little balloon. Rather, the road test will be based on how many stitches the various athletes have dropped.

Contestants include many of the gang from Knitque Yarn Store as well as drinking knitters and knitting drinkers from all over the map. And you? Will you be coming too? The gates open at 6 p.m. Who knows when they'll close.

Remember to have your drinks early, and stay late. They serve lots of different drinks including those not alcoholic, plus lots of appetizers and you can even order Sushi from Kantero's a fabulous Sushi Shop in the same complex. So come join the fun whether you choose to imbide or not. We can't wait to see you there.

Crossposted at Knitique

Posted ByJane at 9:21 PM

Do You Dream in Color?

I posted this Wednesday morning and just realized it disappeared into the black abyss of the internet, so let's try this once again.

New to the shop this week, the heavily anticipated yarn...




Dream in Color




Perfect for knitting Socks of all things, Lace, Headbands and even baby blankets. Currently we've brought in every single color in the Smooshy Line, and are waiting for the Classy line which the adorable Tulip Cardigan was made out of. We will be making kits up for those who want to try their hand at this adorable little top down sweater. It's been all the rage the last few months and after a nice long wait, Knitique will be first shop in the area to bring you this beautiful veil dyed yarn.
Here's what the company has to say about their Superwash Yarns
"Our superwash yarn is machine washable (delicate cycle, cold water) and can be tumbled dry on low heat, making it a perfect choice for socks, baby things or anything that requires frequent washing. What’s more, it’s just incredibly soft! Dream in Color Veil Dyed Superwash™ is spun from 22 micron 100% Australian merino wool, whereas most traditional wool is significantly coarser - around 28 microns and higher. Finer fibers make for softer yarn, and softer yarn makes for garments that feel comfortable - and never itchy - against your skin.

The softness and fine sheen of Veil Dyed Superwash™ yarn make it ideal for sweaters and larger garments. The wool has excellent spring and elasticity. Cables and bobbles will standout beautifully, and the subtle color variations unique to our veil dyeing process won’t distract from intricate stitch patterns the way that many hand dyed yarns will.
As with most hand dyed yarns, each skein of Veil Dyed Superwash™ is unique. We recommend that the customer use two balls at the same time when working on larger garments. Changing frequently between balls insures that there are no striking color changes in the finished garment. "


And for those who don't like the idea of Pooling in their yarns, the company, which owned a Yarn Boutique until recently understands the importance of dyeing and pooling issues.

"Inspired by the play of light in nature, our veil dyeing process brings depth and life to color, giving garments a subtle, dramatic shimmer and shine. While veil dyed yarn has all the unique character of other hand-dyed yarns, it will not “landscape” or “pool.” The result? A magnificent, flattering garment every time!"

I'll upload some pictures tomorrow with all the colors but feel free to check out the beautiful colors online, or stop by the store and strike while the irons hot. About a dozen skeins went out the door yesterday.

Just a reminder tonight is Late Night, come join us from 6-8 where knitting, crocheting and coversation abounds. We've always got a seat for you, and plenty of M&M's to share.

Special Knit and Nosh this Tuesday, February 12th 12-4pm

I've heard through the grapevine that the State has a No Work Day this Tuesday. All the State Workers and all the regulars have decided that this Tuesday we should have an impromptu Knit and Nosh from 12-4. So come on in bring a dish to share and join us for the best camraderie around.

Pass the word around!!!

The Buzz at the Show

So it's been about 3 weeks since TNNA. My brain has stopped whirling, new products are already coming in.

The big buzz words at the show were Socks, Socks and did I mention Socks. Every company out there has either new lines, new colors or new fibers in sock yarn. Luckily for all of us at Knitique, we are ahead of the curve. Being sock addicts already we were so excited to see what's new. We ordered lots and I mean lots of new yarns, books, and accessories.

Just a sneek preview of what's new to the shop.... Opal Sock Yarn We brought in about a dozen lines of this great yarn. If you love patterning sock yarn this is perfect. We've also brought in many new patterns that use sock weight yarn, but are NOT socks! Susan just taught a Cables and Lace Class which was sold out within a day, and I can't even begin to tell you how beautiful the scarves turned out. One of my favorites was knit by SJ. She ended up using Panda Silk. The color combined with the drape was the perfect combination for this scarf.

We've also been bringing in LOTS of books. You all know how much I love books. Our more popular books have been Designer One Skein Wonders I love that with the help of this book you can use some of the more pricer yarns and end up with a beautiful finished project, perfect for gift giving or saving for yourself. Another given the current Trend is 2-at-a-time-Socks. Though this books is written for the Magic Loop method, it can easily be converted for 2 circulars which is my current favorite method of making socks. If you think making socks may tickle your fancy we've got 2 great sock classes this month. One on Friday night, doing a top down method, and another on Saturdays with Susan which is based on the book Crazy, Toes and Heels. Come on in and see what else is new this week at Knitique.

February Class Schedule

Finally through blood, sweat and tears I've finished the class calender. If you've been into the shop you've seen me trying to work on it while sideways. Luckily, Lynn one if my favorite customers, who has a fabulously talented husband diagnosed the problem. Unfortunately for me Chez Knitique will be needing a new computer. As soon as I get more information on Lynn's husband I'll pass it on. Everyone needs to have a computer wiz tucked under their belt. Susan's husband S. is another great computer wiz. I always say if you need a bad guy wrestled down to the ground you can call my husband, but computer fixing, not so much.

Click here for the Class Schedule

So a little about the classes, for the past several months our Wednesday class, All Skills Knitting Clinic has been full even before the schedule comes out. Most people are scheduling the next month even before the current month is done. This past month, January we opened up a Thursday night All Skills Knitting Clinic and true to the current trend it was filled up almost instantly. This month we've opened up a Friday day class from 11-1. That's 3 different classes each week. Are you wondering why this class is so popular? In this class you can work on anything you want. Need help on a sweater, want to learn how to do cables, or want to learn how to make socks, this class would be perfect. You can work on anything in your own time. It's a great skill builder, social sector and you'll connect with women and men from all walks of life. They normally go out to lunch so make sure to bring a little cash for treats. If you've been in on Wednesday morning where the back table is overfloweth you've seen how popular the class is.

Come on in and see what we've got in store for you. We can't wait to help you with your next project,

Here at the show!

I'm sorry I can't upload any pictures but we are having a fabulous time at the show.

I can't even begin to tell you all the new lines and companies we will be bringing in.

We will be coming home with our suitcases full of new Spring Lines and samples of NEW companies that will be arriving in the next few months.

Teresa and I have pictures with the folks at Ravelry, Brandon Mably, Nicky Epstein, Cat Borghi, Clara Parkes, Candy Jensen and many, many more.

We miss you all and can't wait to see you soon.

Big, Big, Big hugs to each and every one of you,

Danielle and Teresa


P.S. Dream in Color, Shibui Knits just to name a few.

We're off to see the Wizards....the wonderful wizards of yarn

Well I'm off tomorrow morning to TNNA. I can't wait to get there and see all the amazing yarns and products the companies have come out with.

I'll also be taking some great classes with "Famous" people in our industry. I'll try to be a geek and get some pictures for you guys. Susan has promised to put up some pictures while I'm gone.

There is even a fashion show with fabulous knit and crochet items mixed in with a little "you Knit What!"

The shop is sure to be filled with lots of those hanging out, buying yarn for upcoming classes, and enjoying a little respite from the rain.

So come and in and join the fun.

See you soon,

Your Local Yarn Pusher

Come Nosh and Knit with us Tonight!

Despite the crazy weather we are having, we still be enjoying our Monthly Event Knit and Nosh. If you've never been before, it's a potluck style bash, where we knit, eat, chat, and generally just enjoy being in some yarn spendidness.

For those who are trimming the holiday fat, I bought some carrots, and I know others will be bringing healthy items. For those who are still imbiding I'm sure we'll have lots of treats, plus....there's lots of chocolate still there.

I have this idea for a Valentine's Day Window. I'd like to string knit or crocheted hearts down the windows. But, as I don't have tons of time, I NEED YOUR HELP. I was hoping all my loyal customers and viewers out there would help me. Hearts need to be dense enough that they can be hung in a window. Anyone doing lacework? We can always use construction paper as a support. You've seen the 1,000 crane mobile, we'd just like to get about 100 hearts.

What's in it for you? Some delicious cashmere, enough to do a hat, or even fingerless gloves. Earn 1 ticket for each heart made.

Don't live in our area, mail them in with your name and number and we will enter you in our Cashmere Contest. We want to be able to include all of our fabulous mail order customers.

Details:

1. Need to be received by January 24th, 2008

Our Address: Knitique 8741 Elk Grove Blvd. Elk Grove, CA 95624

2. Preferably shades of pink, white, red, even lime green

3. You can use any fiber, wool, cotton, blends, even novelty yarn, just keep colors in mind

Some links to some of the heart patterns available:

Large Heart- small washcloth size uses worsted weight cotton (but you can use wool too)

Crocheted Hearts - 2 different sizes remember if you change thickness of yarns, you need to use a corresponding hook size. Use up your left over sock yarns, leftover Cascade 22o any tidbits hanging around.

Heart Sachet - This pattern was in the Interweave Knits Holiday 2006 Magazine, or is free on Knitting Daily

Crocheted Heart Coaster

Textured Heart Kitchen Set

Crocheted Wire Heart

Heart Cat Nip Toy

Crocheted Center Heart Potholder

Okay, that's enough to get started with. We can't wait to see what you create.

I'm So Proud of myself!

If you look in the right hand bar, you can see the link to OUR CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE. I'm so proud of myself. Now that I've finally figured out how it all works it's not really that hard.

I've felt really bad for everyone trying to get last minute gifts done for Christmas this year. I've decided I could help everyone get some Christmas or Birthday Gifts early. We've got some new and exciting classes this year.

1. We are having a FREE washcloth class each month. That's 11 washcloths for Christmas

2. We are having 1 Washcloth class that is definitely as a skill builder. This month it's a gorgeous lace heart. This would be perfect gift for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day or even do 7 of them for a bridal shower present. The sample is in the shop. That's another 11 washcloths

Lace Heart Washcloth

3. We are also having a Year of Scarves. Each scarf will have new techniques or you will be able to master a technique previously tried. This month it's a man's scarf where you change colors and are using textured stitches. Thats 11-12 scarves

4. I am so excited to introduce many of you to one of my Knitting Heroines, Elizabeth Zimmerman. We will be having a class each month working through her patterns. She really believed in trusting your instincts. Her patterns are famous and designs ingenious. That's another 11-12 items.

By next December you could have 48 items all ready to go without even thinking about it. If that interests you please sign up for the classes. There are a limited amount of seats available.

We've also extended our All Skills Knitting Clinic. Starting Thursday we will have a night class of this popular class. We've currently overfilled our day class, so if nights work better for you, this is a great class where you can get help finishing up your projects, getting started on new ones, or just plain building your skills. Starting Next Month, we will be offering another day class on Fridays from 11-1, there are a few spots available in most of our classes. Call us at 916.714.7719 to sign up today.

We can't wait to have you join us this month!

It was Here and now It's Gone

I'd love to show you pictures of the New Noro Kureyon Sock Yarn....but all I've got is one Lonely Skein of Color # S150 left
So here you go... it's beautiful subtle shades of lavender, grey, teal and some brown. Don't worry for all those who didn't get to buy any. It's already on order and should be arriving sometime next week.

We also are getting a little closer to bringing you even more beautiful hand dyed yarns. One company which I don't want to reveal will be quite an addition to our collections.

Happy New Year to each and every one of you.

Details, Details, Details

The Sale of the Year is about to start in less than 12 hours

New Year's Day Extravaganza Everything in the store is on Sale.

Discounted from 10% to 75%
Dramatic savings on all the clearance and overstocked items don't miss out.

Here's all the Nitty Gritty Details

6-7 am 25% off all Yarn + an additional 25% off all of previously marked down clearance and overstocked items.

7-8 am 20% off all Yarn + an additional 20% off all previously marked down clearance and overstocked items.

8-10 am 15% off all Yarn + an additional 15% off all previously marked down clearance and overstocked items.

10-12 am 10% off all Yarn + an additional 10% off all previously marked down clearance and overstocked items.

All Day Specials:

All Novelty Yarns are 25% off

All Patterns, Needles and Accesories are 15% off

All Books are 10% off

*All Sales are Final. Limited to stock on hand. No additional discounts or signatures on Insatiable Knitter will be given. Sale can not be applied to items on hold or items on layaway. You MUST be checked out to receive the specials of that hour.

Save the DATE!

I've been hearing whispers, rumors circulating, people trying to guess what it will be.

Yes, we are definitely having our New Year's Day Sale. I figure we've got to start the year off right. In fact just this week we've received shipments of Noro Kureyon Sock Yarn, French 75 Sock Yarn, and a huge order from Alpaca Yarn Company. We've been selling it like crazy. I'm hoping there will be some left for the Sale.

All the details will be sent by email so if you aren't on our mailing list, be sure to join. I'll be emailing out the details sometime on New Year's Eve.

Remember PJ's are acceptable. Be sure to bring your knitting and stay awhile. We will be going out to lunch afterwards. Last year we had dessert first, so who knows what we'll do this year.

So make sure to pass it on, tell a friend, post it wherever you like. Sales like this only come around twice a year, so start the New Year's off on the right foot and tell a friend.

Need some Respite from the Family Fun?

Come join us tonight for Late Night.

I'll be here working, and I've started yet another new project, Bird in the Hand Mittens by Kate Gilbert
As you can imagine my partiality to colors I'll be Using Cascade 220 Superwash in a great Fuscia Pink, Cream and hints of you guessed it.....Lime Green. I can't wait.

We've got plenty of Chocolate.

Join us for the Last Late Night Before Christmas

This is your last chance before Christmas to stay late at the shop and finish up your Christmas Shopping.

If you still need to whip out some project I wrote 3 different patterns for a Quick Knit. Just ask Robin. She knit the Super Model Hat the Friday after Thanksgiving and has since knit 12 others. It's a perfect gift for a man or a woman, fits perfectly and can be finished easily under 2 hours.

Come on in, join the fun. See all the new Books that came in today, plus all the new yarns.