… there are so many pretty ways to stay warm. The first photo shows Dona’s spectacular Highland Fling knit from Bijou Basin Ranch’s undyed Bijou Bliss, a unique 50% yak/50% Cormo wool blend yarn that has both softness and substance, offering great stitch definition.

Another Highland Fling will be visiting the shop during our Classic Elite Yarns Winter Trunk Show, February 9-18. During the Trunk Show, all in-stock Classic Elite yarns featured in the “Panache” and “Crestone & Vista” pattern collections will be 20% off.

The jazzy trio below Dona’s Fling is Wanda’s delightful Storm Cloud Shawlette in Universal’s Bamboo Bloom. (This is the same yarn Julia used for her Bamboo Bloom Scarf pictured in the 1/13/12 post.) Wanda’s shawl is another great example of how a simple pattern can bring out the very best in a complex yarn.

Speaking of yarn that can steal the show, Wanda’s other FO is the dramatic Mitered Squares Triangular Shawl. With the right needle size for her Jojoland Rhythm, she used the larger of the two sizes in the pattern, making 8″, rather than 10″, squares. Maude’s never looked so cozy.

After choosing their yarns together just a week or so ago, sisters Evelyn and Ethel arrived the other day with their completed scarves. Both patterns are from Cascade Yarn’s 60 Quick Knits, available at the shop. Evelyn wanted a heathery lavender for a gift knit, and she found just the color she was looking for in Tahki Coast (55% wool/45% cotton), while Ethel picked a solid pearl grey Mochi + for herself, wanting a yarn that would complement her lace pattern and “pop” against her black winter coat. Quite the pair!

Sharon picked a popsicle pink Cascade 220 Superwash Sport for this darling dress for her granddaughter. Be sure to note the sweet smocking detail on the bodice, as well as the Fair Isle panel at the hem.  This one is sure to become a family heirloom.

Julia, mentioned above, had a tough assignment: design a hat that would be both warm and comfortable for day-long use while allowing air to flow through an openwork pattern. It also needed to be customized with an Awareness ribbon emblem. And did I mention the wearer would be male?  She succeeded handsomely using SWTC Terra, a 50% cotton/50% bamboo blend. The ribbon design is her own original.  Her husband Kim was kind enough to model for us. Well done, Julia!

Were you lucky enough to take Carolyn’s “My First Sweater” class? Here is her own class project, which used 7 skeins of fleecy soft Manos del Uruguay’s handspun natural Wool Clasica.  The topdown pattern is Knitting Pure & Simple’s #9724A. As always, simply beautiful knitting on Carolyn’s part.

Mary Lou spotted Jill’s Shizuku Scarf store sample and chose a sublime shade of Mochi + called “Ice Wine” to make one for herself.  How pretty is this?

Next time, I’ll have some of my own and Jill’s FOs to share, samples we’ve been stitching for upcoming classes (see preceding post).  At this time of year, when we’re not knitting, Jill and I are meeting with yarn sales representatives to see the spring lines.  Lest you think this is a walk in the park, I’ll leave you with this snap of the shop work table, taken as we were choosing a new palette of colors for our beloved madelinetosh Tosh DK, coming (we hope) in April.  Not as easy as you’d think!

Please bring basic knitting skills to all our classes; you should know how to cast-on, knit, purl, and bind-off.  If you’d like some help mastering the fundamentals before taking a class, please drop in for a Knitting 101 session (see below). Classes suitable for very new knitters are marked by a ♦.

BEGINNER DPNs: SUPER BULKY MITTENS / 1 Session – $30
Ann Ross
Master double pointed needles by making a quick pair of mittens. You should even be able to finish the first mitten in class. Class fee includes pattern.
Class A: Thursday, January 26, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Class B: Saturday, February 25, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 ball Cascade Yarns Lana Grande; set US #11 DPNs; locking stitch markers

KNIT, SWIRL! / 4 Saturday Sessions – $95
Carolyn Kern
Sandra McIver’s designs from her book Knit, Swirl! fit and flatter every figure.  Over four Saturday afternoons, you’ll complete your very own Swirl sweater. It would be helpful to have attended Carolyn’s December class, Starting Your Swirl, but not necessary.  You must have all yarn and supplies your choice of design calls for, your own copy of McIver’s book (available at the shop), and completed your gauge swatch prior to first class.
Saturday, January 28, 1:30-3:30 p.m.; February 25, 1:30-3:00 p.m.; March 17 & 31, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

BUBBLE WRAP COWL / 1 Session – $20
Ann Ross
A clever drop-stitch pattern produces “bubbles” when you choose two contrasting shades of madelinetosh Tosh DK for this show-stopper cowl knit in the round from Antonia Shankland. Class fee includes pattern.
Class A: Saturday, January 28, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Class B: Wednesday, February 29, 2:30-4:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 hank madelinetosh Tosh DK for main color and 2 hanks for contrast color (or equivalent DK yarns); 1-32” US #7 circular needle; ring stitch marker.

♦ FOUR SEASONS THROW: 12 in 2012
Ann Ross & Jill Schwartz
This beautiful throw will be an ongoing project for 2012. Begin whenever you like, set your own pace, and work through 12 simple knit/purl stitch patterns to make a 41×52” throw in the Manos del Uruguay Wool Clasica color scheme of your choice. There will be a Four Seasons Throw “clinic” held monthly on the last Saturday, offering pattern support and assembly tips. Come to as many/few as you like; no advance registration needed. When you purchase 11 hanks of Wool Clasica, you will get your 12^th free.
Saturday, January 28, 12:00-1:00 p.m.; February 25, 3:00-4:00 p.m.; March 31, 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy of Four Seasons Throws pattern book; 12 hanks Manos Del Uruguay Wool Clasica or approx. 1650 yds. equivalent worsted weight yarn; US #9 needles

COLONNADE SHAWL / 2 Sessions – $30
Jill Schwartz
This shapely shawl from Stephen West is a nice contrast to rectangles, squares, and triangles. It can be fastened with a toggle and I-cord closure or wrapped around your neck. Stockinette stitch and a simple lace pattern worked in worsted weight yarn means you’ll finish in plenty of time to ward off the winter chill.
Wednesday, February 1 & 15, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 (free) copy of Colonnade pattern from http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall09/PATTcolonnade.php; Manos del Uruguay Wool Clasica, 1 hank for main color and 2 hanks for contrast color (or approx. 415 yds. equivalent worsted weight yarn); 1-40” US #10 circular needle; 1 set US #10 DPNs (optional, used only for I-Cord loop closure); 3 stitch markers; yarn needle; 1 toggle or button (optional)

** BEGINNER CROCHET / 1 Session – $40
Catherine Molski
Learn the fundamentals of crochet: foundation chain, single, and double crochet. You’ll make a simple baby cap and learn to work a ripple pattern and a granny square. Class fee includes patterns.
Saturday, February 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 skein EllaRae Classic or approx. 100 yds. worsted weight yarn; 1-G or H crochet hook

The following has been postponed and will be offered in the spring:
** BEGINNER MAGIC LOOP / 2 Sessions – $30
Catherine Molski
The Magic Loop technique, which uses one very long circular needle, can be used for any small diameter knitting: hats, socks, sleeve cuffs, etc. The project will be Ann Norling’s Head Hugger hat. Choose a size (infant, child, or adult) and a size yarn (bulky, worsted, or DK).  You’ll learn why and how Magic Loop works, as well as figuring gauge and adapting a pattern for Magic Loop. After casting on in the first class, there will be homework to get you ready to decrease and cast off by the end of the second class.
Saturday, February 11 & 25, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy of the Head Hugger pattern by Ann Norling; 100-200 yds yarn (amount will depend on cap size and yarn chosen; see pattern for details); 1-32” or longer circular needle (yarn size will determine needle size)

ELISBETH CABLED HEADBAND / 1 Session – $30
Ann Ross
The Elisbeth Headband is a great first cable knitting project. It’s one of a design collection that also includes a coordinated cap and cowl.
Wednesday, February 15, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy The Elisbeth Collection by Chic Knits; 70 yds. Aran weight yarn (such as Tahki Donegal Tweed or Debbie Bliss Rialto Aran); 24” circular US #8 needles, ring stitch markers; cable needle

YOUR FIRST PAIR OF SOCKS / 3 Sessions – $60
Ann Ross
Make an adult size top-down sock in sport weight yarn on double point needles (DPNs), still the best way to learn “sock anatomy” before trying Magic Loop, 2 circular needles, or toe-up construction. We’ll cover good DPN technique, heel flap and gusset construction, and Kitchener (grafted) bind-off. Class fee includes pattern.
Friday, February 17, 1:30-2:30 p.m.; February 24, 1:30-3:00 p.m.; March 2, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Supplies: 2 hanks Louet Gems Sport; US #3 DPNs; locking stitch markers

BANDANA COWL / 1 Session – $30
Ann Ross
Be both warm and chic for the rest of the winter with this fashionable cowl from Purl Soho. If you’ve never knit in the round before, this pattern will get you going.  With a few short rows for added shaping, it’s a fast one-skein project.
Class A: Saturday, February 18, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Class B: Thursday, February 23, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 (free) copy of Bandana Cowl pattern from http://www.purlbee.com/bandana-cowl/ ; 1 hank Cascade Cloud, Eco Cloud, or Eco Duo; 16” circular US #10.5 needles; locking stitch markers

GLAMOUR LACE SCARF / 1 Session – $20
Ann Ross
A simple but spectacular design, adaptable for lace/mohair, fingering, and sport weight yarns. Glamour is ideal for lace knitters looking for an easy “next” project. The directions are written only in chart form.
Saturday, February 18, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy of Glamour pattern, found in CEY Panache book; 2 balls Debbie Bliss Angel and 1-32” or longer US #5 circular needle or 2 hanks Classic Elite Vail and 1-32” or longer US #5 circular needle or 3 balls Classic Elite Firefly and1-32” or longer US #6 circular needle; ring stitch markers

♦ MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SCARF / 1 Session – $20
Ann Ross
This clever bias pattern really shows off self-shading yarns, regardless of gauge. A great project for beginners because while the pattern is simple, the finished scarf looks complicated.
Class A: Tuesday, February 21, 1:30-3:00 p.m
Class B: Saturday: March 3, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy Short Row Multi-Directional Scarf by Ann Norling; 1 hank Noro Iro and US #9 needles (for scarf as sampled) or 400 yds. fingering/sport weight yarn; 200 yds. worsted weight yarn; or 175 yds. bulky weight yarn and needles recommended for your yarn

♦ ZEST RUFFLED SCARF / 1 Session – $20
Jill Schwartz
An easy garter stitch scarf, knit on the diagonal, with as many rows of ruffles as you like.
Class A: Friday, February 24, 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Class B: Saturday, March 3, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy Zest pattern, found in CEY Panache book; 3 hanks Classic Elite Vail and US #3 needles or 2 hanks Alpaca Sox and US #4 needles

SEAMING / 1 Session – $15
Ann Ross
Seaming is the finishing touch to your completed knit garment. Learn mattress stitch for stockinette, garter, and ribbed fabric and how to join cross grain fabric, often found at shoulder and sleeve seams.
Sunday, February 26, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Please bring to class: (4) swatches made from worsted weight wool yarn: CO 18 sts. on US #8 needles, work 24 rows, BO, and block to be flat and square. Make 2 swatches in garter stitch and 2 in stockinette; US #8 needles; yarn needle; scissors

♦ KNITTING MORE OR LESS / 1 Session – $20
Ann Ross
If  “S2KP” and “M1R” aren’t already in your knitting vocabulary, it may be time to learn these and other useful decrease and increase stitches.
Class A: Saturday, March 17, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Class B: Friday, March 23, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Please bring to class: Swatch made from worsted weight wool yarn: CO 18 sts., work 4 rows in garter and 4 rows in stockinette; leave yarn attached to ball and do not bind-off; US #8 needles.

KUDZU SHAWLETTE / 2 Sessions – $40
Ann Ross
Rachel Henry’s pretty shoulder-covering shawl can be made either 44” or 62” long. A fluid intermediate lace pattern and the drape of the wool/bamboo blend yarn provide just enough coverage for spring and summer breezes.
Wednesday, March 21, 1:30-3:00 p.m.; April 4, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 (free) copy of the Kudzu Shawlette pattern from http://www.classiceliteyarns.com/WebLetter/193/Issue193.php4; (5) balls Classic Elite Wool Bam Boo; 1-24” or longer US #6 circular needle; ring stitch markers

BRADY SCARF / 1 Session – $30
Ann Ross
Make either a scarf or wrap using a pattern that shows off Kauni Effektgarn’s gradual color shading to stunning effect.  Learn binding-off and casting-on stitches row by row to create this contemporary openwork design.
Class A: Thursday, March 22, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Class B: Saturday, March 31, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy Brady Scarf by Sally Brandl; 2 balls Kauni Effektgarn for 14-17” wrap or 1 ball for 8-11” wide scarf; US #3 needles

KNITTING LACE FOR THE FIRST TIME / 1 Session – $45
Ann Ross
Let English Mesh Lace Scarf introduce you to the addictive world of lace knitting. Learn basic increase and decrease stitches, chart reading, how to “read” your lace knitting to catch mistakes before they grow, and how to add beads to your stitches. (Pattern can be worked with or without beads.)
Saturday, March 24, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Supplies: 1 copy of English Mesh Lace Scarf pattern by Churchmouse Classics; approx. 300 yds DK weight or 230 yds lace weight yarn; straight or circular US #7 needles or size to obtain gauge of 17 sts = 4” in stockinette stitch; (optional) 175 beads, #6 for DK-weight or #8 for lace-weight yarn (or size your yarn can be pulled through); crochet hook size US #12 (1mm) for DK-weight yarn and size 6 beads or US #13 (.9mm) for lace-weight yarn and size 8 beads (or size to fit through your beads)

DOMINO KNITTING / 1 Session – $40 (includes yarn kit)
Ann Ross
Learn the basic techniques of Domino Knitting, which starts with a single mitred square and grows, block by block, into fun patchwork patterns. Class fee includes kit of 5 colors of yarn and pattern for class practice project.
Saturday, March 24, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Supplies: US #8 circular needles

KNITTING 101 / FREE (Advance registration required for groups of two or more)
Ann Ross, Jill Schwartz
Ready to be a knitter?  Stop by for an hour on a Tuesday afternoon. We’ll help you with the basics: cast-on, knit, purl, and bind-off.
Tuesdays, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Suggested supplies available for purchase: Worsted weight 100% wool yarn; 1 pair non-metal US #9 10” straight needles

Weekly Stitch & Spins / FREE
Come to a Stitch & Spin session and bring whatever project you’d like to work on for an hour or two. Enjoy the company of your fellow knitters, crocheters, and spinners. Coffee, tea, and snacks always available.
Thursdays, 6:00-8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

** If you would like to donate your finished project from the Beginner Magic Loop or Beginner Crochet class to a children’s charity, Catherine Molski will see that your knit or crocheted cap goes to the Motherless Child Foundation through the Ravelry Group, “Mittens for Akkol.”

Let us know if there are classes you would like to attend but cannot because of scheduling conflicts. We will make every effort to include the classes in future calendars.

Joanne worked her Citron, above, in JaggerSpun Zephyr Wool-Silk 2/18, a very long name for this delicate (and, in my opinion, perfect) lace weight yarn.  She knit in tiny pearl beads at the hem for a polished finish. Beautiful, Joanne!

The New Year got off to a luxurious start with the arrival of Cheryl’s finished Sandra Cowl, a free pattern from Tahki Stacy Charles, this sumptuous chenille yarn’s manufacturer. This is definitely a “because I deserve it” project. And don’t we all?

Awhile ago, Cheryl showed us a darling framed photo collage that had been made from portraits of her grandson.  It included this adorable shot of him cuddled up in the blanket she’d made for him using our Baby Blocks Blanket shop pattern.  I just had to snap a shot and grabbed my phone (and promptly forgot I hadn’t used my regular camera, which explains the “awhile ago”) but, boy, is this face worth the wait. Smiles like this are why we make baby blankets in the first place.

Julia used two skeins of Bamboo Bloom to make her jazzy ribbed scarf a little longer, which means twice the pop of color, just what January needs. Another example of a simple pattern that gives an energetic, center stage yarn the chance to really shine.

Something else January needs is a Gosh Yarn It! class calendar. I promise that it will be in the very next post. Watch this space!

We have just a few skeins of Kidsilk Creation left.  Christine, Barbara, Mary, Dona, Debbie, and Karen can tell you that an hour is all you’ll need; you may need even less time to create a luxurious scarf to keep or give to a dear friend.

Speaking of keeping and giving, it amazes and delights me that we have any FOs at all to share at this time of year.  With so many projects destined to be given as gifts, we don’t want to spoil any surprises.  I think we’re safe with these…

Jill knit her cowl in the round with just three balls of Schulana Mandola, a yarn that Coco Chanel would have loved.  Judging from that smile, here’s another happy-making yarn!

Panné from S. Charles Collezione is a lustrous chenille.  If velvet married Persian lamb this might be their little bundle of joy.  Sue made her Arcadia Cowl with the US #9 needles called for in the pattern and 3 balls of Panné, giving it extra drape and slink, but with US #7 needles you can make an Arcadia with just two balls of yarn.

Marcia used her November Dream Club yarn and pattern to make the handsome scarf on the left, a gift that’s already been given to a very lucky gentleman.

The turquoise beauty on the right is Marcia’s adaptation of a braided cowl pattern she saw “in a magazine.” It was created with two Dear Husband yarns, Thick & Thin and DK, both dyed in the same GYI exclusive colorway.

Perhaps I should have titled this post, “The Cowl Issue”?  Molly also paired two yarns, a silk/mohair blend and Wool Clasica from Manos del Uruguay, chosen with her usual savvy color sense, and used the same pattern, Burberry Inspired Cowl, for each.  Aren’t they spectacular?

Last year we introduced a free shop pattern that uses six different yarns, Cowl of Many Colors.  Choosing the six is half the fun.  When Molly brought in a couple of stash yarns, after some experimenting, mixing, and matching, the shop’s shelves completed this sophisticated “palette.”

Using the free pattern Magic Rib Scarf and Eco Duo from Cascade Yarns, Molly knit the positively plush scarf shown below, left.  She even matched the stripes!  Her  Mohair Bias Loop from Churchmouse Classics, right, may look like miles of simple stockinette, but it’s anything but mindless knitting.  Molly did a beautiful job… Maude looks like she’s wearing a fluffy sapphire blue cloud.

Finally, two last FOs that are not neckwear.  Julia made her Pembroke Shawl from Brown Sheep Lanaloft Chunky in a deep, classic navy.  Who says you can’t knit lovely lace with chunky yarn?

Adam is not the knitter of this Pressed Rib Cap, another Churchmouse pattern we have in the shop, but rather the 100% satisfied recipient.  Jill finished the hat just in time to protect his Aussie ears from NEPA’s wintry chill.

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Yes, winter arrives at 12:35 a.m. this Thursday morning, the shortest day and the longest night of the year.  Why not celebrate the change of seasons at our Stitch & Spin on Thursday evening, 6-8 p.m.?  And if you need any last minute gifts, we have quite the collection of fun notions and other small necessities.  We also just received a dozen colors of a new yarn, Crystal Palace Party. Yes, there’s still time to start a one skein Party scarf and finish in time to set out the milk and cookies for Santa.

Here are our holiday shop hours to keep in mind:

Our Winter class schedule will be available very soon; please keep an eye on your email inbox.  (Be sure to allow incoming emails from info@goshyarnitshop.com, so we won’t end up in your spam filter!)

Jill and I wish you all happy holidays and the gifts of love, peace, and plenty of time to stitch in the New Year!

Not only is she bringing a trunk show of her own Black Bunny Fibers with her for everyone to ooh and aah over (and buy), but she will also be teaching a fabulous class, Making Friends With Your Handpaints.

Carol’s 2½ hour class will cover how dyers create color patterns in fiber and how knitters and crocheters can best choose and use handpaints.  Everyone falls in love with a skein of handpainted yarn eventually, but not everyone is sure what to do next.  Which patterns are handpaint-friendly?  How will the colors behave?  Will they stripe, blotch, or pool?  Carol will answer these questions and show you how to get the most – and the best – out of your hand-dyed yarn.  Session is 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m., $45.  Seating is limited, so call the shop today to reserve your spot in the class, 570-287-9999.

After her class, Carol will preside over a trunk show of her own handpainted yarn and (attention, spinners!) roving. Black Bunny Fibers are produced in small batches and are in much demand. We will also have copies of her book Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn for sale, and Carol will be happy to autograph a copy for you.

Come and enjoy the Black Bunny Fibers Trunk Show during regular shop hours, 12-4 p.m.  Buy a book after Carol’s class ends at 1:30 p.m. and have it inscribed by the author.  If you’d like to get to know Carol a little better before you meet her, check out her popular blog, goknitinyourhat.  And here’s a small taste of Black Bunny Fibers goodness:

Ready for a few FOs?  Bonnie finished a sweater for her son out of our Universal Yarns Dolce Merino that is soooo soft.  The pattern has an ingenious shoulder construction, although it’s not easy to see here, even with Maude the Mannequin doing her best to look muy macho.

Carolyn made a gorgeous Cerisara cardigan by Bonne Marie Burns of Chic Knits.  The yarn is some she won from the Knitcircus Magazine’s Womenheart Scarf Contest.  She posed for me in the late afternoon sunshine, so the color of the yarn may be a bit more golden than in real life, but it’s definitely another winner, don’t you think?

Sunny used Three Irish Girls Springvale Bulky for her ribbed stadium scarf.  Can you see how she unraveled the plies of the yarn in the fringe?  What a clever idea!  She asked me if I knew why the striping pattern changed about halfway through.  After listening in on Carol Sulcoski’s Making Friends With Your Handpaints class next Sunday, I may have an answer for her.

Wanda completed a mini-poncho with stash yarn that looks like it will be a really nice warm wrap to have handy as the days get colder.

Stephanie’s latest two FOs run the gamut from the sublime to the ridiculous, but each is enchanting!  First, her delicate Live Oak Shawlette by Romi Hill, knit in (be still, my heart!) madelinetosh merino light:

And now for something completely different, meet Howard the Slug Who Enjoys Decorating for the Holidays:

To give you a sense of scale, Stephanie mentioned she used Size 0 needles on Howard’s jaunty stocking cap, and he’s sitting on one of our hat displays that’s less than 8″ across. While Cheezombie’s slug design might be an acquired taste, toy knitting can be addictive.  One of my favorites is Ysolda Teague’s Elijah the Elephant, which doesn’t require any tedious stuffing and seaming up of tiny parts.  A finished Elijah visited us recently in the company of Sam.  Sam and Elijah look like they are the very best of friends!

And here’s the very chic south end of Wild Thyme headed north:

Remember that you can start thinking about making a Swirl of your very own at our upcoming introductory Starting Your Swirl class on Saturday, December 3rd.  Carolyn Kern will be introducing Sandra McIver’s ingenious designs and discussing fit, choosing yarn, and construction methods. The Swirl Sweater class will begin in the new year, with Carolyn tailoring the format and scheduling to best meet participants’ needs.  You can attend the hour-long $15 session on Saturday, December 3rd without obligation to sign up for the full class.  But after seeing Carm’s gorgeous finished Swirls and Carolyn’s swatches and samples, we don’t think you’ll be able to resist the call of the Swirl.  Plus, you can order Sandra McIver’s book and all your project yarn from us for 10% off!

But wait… Carm had more to share. There was also this precious Watercolor, a pattern from from a recent Debbie Bliss Magazine, in our beloved Fibre Company alpaca/silk/camel/cashmere Road to China Light:

And she still wasn’t finished, because to her remaining Road to China Light from the Watercolor, she added a strand of a kid mohair/silk blend and created this delicate shawlette with a graceful leaf edging:

When it comes to selecting yarns and blending colors and textures for her pieces, Carm is a master.  Carm, you are an inspiration!

Mary Beth chose our Jaggerspun Zephyr merino/silk laceweight for her delicate Citron, with brilliant copper beads on the fluttery hem.  If you’d like to make your own Citron that’s slightly larger than Hilary Smith Callis’ original shoulder-capping version from Knitty.com, Mary Beth kindly gave us the tip that the instructions can be found in Sally Melville’s blog; see the August 30, 2010 entry.

Mary Jane came in the other day wearing her own hand knit socks, a knit cap, fingerless gloves, and carrying her grandchildren’s felted caps and the completed Herringbone Fair Isle Cowl from Carolyn Kern’s stranded knitting class.  She may have thought I just wanted to photograph the cowl and caps.  Wrong!  She was such a good sport about having her picture taken that I didn’t want to push my luck to try to get the socks in the picture, too:

Remember Mary Jane’s “before” hat from the last post? Can you find it in this great quartet of “after” hats? And here at last, her splendid cowl:

Déjà vu, anyone?  Yes, you’ve seen this amazing pattern, Stephen West’s Earth & Sky, before.  Jane made her pretty-in-pink version with tosh merino light, one of the designer’s suggested yarns. (Maybe I shouldn’t play favorites, but I even love winding merino light from skein to ball. Here at the shop we’re down to just two skeins – not good – but much more is on order from madelinetosh and should be here in a week or two. If you can’t get enough merino light either, see Molly’s Barb’s Koigu Ruffle Scarf, below.)

Jane’s and Wanda’s Earth & Sky shawls are both beautiful and beautiful examples of what a difference your choice off yarns can make.  Here is another set of twins, again made by Jane (left) and Wanda (right):

Yes, believe it or not, that’s the same pattern. Want another example of The Power of Yarn? Here is the Cascade Yarn free pattern, Eco Duo Cabled Scarf, designed by our recent guest Shannon Dunbabin, and worked by Rose in its cloud-soft namesake Eco Duo (left) and by Molly (right) in a sophisticated slate grey Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran:

Speaking of Eco Duo, I’m delighted to present Marsha’s luscious Honey Cowl:Marsha, like Rose, is clearly a member of the Eco Duo Fan Club, while Molly is another member of my madelinetosh merino light Fan Club.  Her Barb’s Koigu Ruffle Scarf really lets it shine.  This pattern has been one of our most popular, even though it calls for many, many stitches to produce all those cascading ruffles. As you see from Molly’s finished scarf, each and every one is worth it:

One last homage to tosh merino light, an FO that’s a shop sample, seen here to the right of our sample Bamboo Bloom Scarf.  This reversible design is called Brick Road Cowl by Antonia Shankland, and it’s a free shop pattern:

Some patterns are too good to knit just once.  Here’s Rose’s second Spectra, expertly transposed from fingering to worsted weight with Dream in Color Classy and Berroco Ultra Alpaca:

Kady’s Garter Blocks Baby Blanket has by now already been presented to niece Ella.  Knit in soft Jil Eaton Minnow Merino from Classic Elite, we know Ella will be keeping this snuggly by her side for a long, long time:

By the way, Churchmouse Yarns & Teas has added an adult size Big Garter Blocks Throw & Afghan pattern to their line, and we have stocked up on both big and small versions.  Afghan patterns don’t come easier than this.

Jane took my Mukluk class and made these classic slippers of Katia Peru wool/alpaca/acrylic blend, so they’ll be easy to care for.  Mukluks may not be as glamorous as some of the other FOs shown here, but it’s always fun to say “mukluk,” and it’s always great to have a pair on your feet!

Our Dream in Color Dream Club continues to amaze us, not only by the beauty of the yarns themselves but also by the exclusive one-skein patterns cleverly created just for them.  Two members shared their completed October projects with us.  The first two pictures are of Cheryl’s shawl; the third picture shows Marcia’s. Very, very pretty.

Believe it or not, there is an end to this post.  The last FOs I have for you are examples of a few of our spectacular new yarns for Fall/Winter 2011.  The first is a sample of Ritratto, the Faye 2-Way Vest. It was supplied to us by the yarn’s maker Tahki.  The pattern comes from the S. Charles Collezione booklet Moonstruck, currently in stock in the shop.  I can’t think of anything more wearable for the holidays, over slacks and a simple top.  This is just one of many ways it can be draped and worn to great effect:

Panné is a chenille, also from S. Charles Collezione, reminiscent of the softest Persian lamb. One touch, and you may be tempted just to take one home to pat it.  But wouldn’t it be so much better to have it nestled around your neck in the lovely Arcadia Cowl by Kim Dolce?

Finally, Diverso by SMC Select.  I tried a few different patterns to see what showed off this soft, super-bulky wool/mohair chainette best.  This was my first choice, a fluffy seed stitch cowl that uses just 162 yards.  Diverso would make wonderful scarves and hats, too.  On size 17 needles, this free cowl pattern will probably take you less time to make than it took to read this post!

]]> https://goshyarnitshop.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/whole-lotta-knittin-goin-on/feed/ 2 goshyarnitshop 11.21 11.21 11.21.18 Knit, Swirl! 11.21.20 11.21.19 11.21.21 11.21.12 11.21.beads 11.21.08 11.21.10 11.21.09 11.21.11 Jane's Earth & Sky Earth & Sky, detail 11.18.04 11.18.05 11.21.03 11.21.02 11.21.24 11.21.22 11.19.02 11.21.14 11.19.01 11.21.07 11.21.05 11.21.06 11.18.01 11.21.15 11.21.04 11.21.16 11.21.01 https://goshyarnitshop.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/fos-break-free-of-fridays/ https://goshyarnitshop.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/fos-break-free-of-fridays/#comments Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:33:52 +0000 Gosh Yarn It! http://goshyarnitshop.wordpress.com/?p=632 Continue reading →]]> It’s time to admit that while “FO Fridays” may work for some LYS blogs, Gosh Yarn It! FOs are such free spirits (and, I’m delighted to say, there are so many of them sometimes) that they cannot be contained in just one weekly post.  Today, I’ll be catching up on an embarrassingly large backlog of FOs… after a few words about a shop “first” that will definitely not be a last.

We hosted our first Cascade Yarn Tasting on the 27th, but calling it a “tasting” is a bit of an understatement. Erlinda Brennan and Shannon Dunbabin of Cascade brought an absolute feast of yarn for us – plates, platters, bowls, and baskets-full.  At the end of the evening, when it was just the four of us left, Jill and I sat down with Erlinda and Shannon to order yarn for the shop.  After first making sure all the wine bottles were really empty, we chose more shades of everyone’s favorite, Eco Duo, and selected some of the new solid colors of the big hit of the evening, Eco Cloud.  We filled in missing colors in our Heritage and Heritage Paints sock/fingering weight and, with help from Shannon’s encyclopedic knowledge of Cascade yarn colors, the Superwash 220 Sport, too.  We need a baby blue, we’d say.  1914.  And some black.  815.  How about a light heather grey?  1946.  How does she remember it all?  Here’s Shannon in her nifty knitting gloves and Erlinda packing up all her beautiful samples:

And now for the FOs.  Enjoy and be inspired!

Joanne took Classic Elite Magnolia in color Rose and created this perfectly beautiful scarf.  Knitters – you, too, could easily get hooked on crochet.

Deb’s simple garter stitch scarf is simply gorgeous, thanks to Bamboo Bloom from Universal Yarns.  A box just arrived full of new colors, and more are on the way.  Let this yarn “do its thing” and you can sit back and enjoy the compliments.

Another yarn that’s happy to do the heavy lifting for you is my favorite Ripple by Tahki.  Yes, it’s mercerized cotton, but before anyone runs from the room, shrieking “don’t mention cotton to me in November!” let me quickly add that Ripple neither looks like cotton, feels like cotton, nor knits like cotton – it feels much more like a smooth, dry silk.  All Barbara needed to do to make this elegant stole was knit Ripple in stockinette with the slimmest of garter stitch edgings. Clever, Barbara!

Speaking of stoles that get so much of their beauty from their simplicity, Sue used some of our remaining merino/silk Savoy, also by Tahki, and the Keep It Simple Pure Elegance pattern from to make this elegant wrap, another FO I couldn’t seem to stop photographing.

If you have never made a felted project before, you may not realize how much bigger the before has to be to get the right after.  Mary Jane’s fun hats in Ella Rae Classic for her grandchildren show the magical transformation hot water and a little agitation can have on wool:

Andrea made this classic stockinette scarf in Universal Classic Chunky with custom colors chosen by the recipient.  I predict this FO will have a long and happy life.

Speaking of colors, both Jean and Sue have been experimenting lately with mixing and blending multiple yarns within a single project with enviable results.  Here’s Jean’s Gedifra Pertinio / Debbie Bliss Angel / Trendsetter Zoe scarf.  I’ve tried to show how she worked some sections with just one yarn, then brought in a second yarn, which then would get its own solo turn, and so on.  Please note the incredibly ingenious double-sided closure that Jean fashioned from buttons and fastened with the project yarn:

Sue hit the color jackpot by pairing Crystal Palace Mochi Plus with an electric red Douceur et Soie from Knit One Crochet Too.  Warning: you may need sunglasses to view these photos.

Color isn’t the only way to make a dramatic statement with your knitting.  Tina’s Celtic Moonrise Mittens were worked in a sage green Tahki Donegal Tweed that beautifully complements the impressive cabling.  Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

Stephanie’s Corinne is another example of a perfect yarn/pattern partnership.  She chose this delicious not-quite-blue-not-quite-lavender Madeline Tosh DK, which we special ordered for her.  The knitting of the sweater may have taken less time than it took to get the yarn dyed and shipped to the shop, but it was definitely worth the wait.

We’d been wondering when a pet sweater FO would appear now that the weather is turning colder.  The first place ribbon goes to Allison, who started and finished a sweater for her dog Boone in one sitting with one skein of Magnum by Cascade.  I had originally used the shop sheep as a mannequin, but Boone himself is a much cuter model, don’t you think?

There are even more FOs waiting in the wings, their pictures already taken, but what could possibly follow that sweet puppy face?

The shawl you most wanted to be seen wearing at Rhinebeck this year was Stephen West’s Earth & Sky, his first Mystery KAL, which began in August.  All the cool kids had them on.  And here it is, knit by Wanda, who must have been one of the first over the finish line once that last clue was published.  Her color choices work brilliantly together, don’t they?

Sue took thick, soft chainette Diverso (SMC Select), sparkly Ritratto (S.Charles Collezione from Tahki), and the free Chunky Ribs & Ruffles scarf pattern from Misti Alpaca, and created this stunner.  Just to touch it is to want one of your own.  Since this is a perfect weekend project, worked on #17 needles, you could have one done in no time.

Finishing a sweater – particularly one you love to wear – is always an accomplishment to celebrate.  But if you knit that sweater with yarn you spun yourself?  You’re entitled to be pretty pleased with yourself!  Here’s Linda modeling her handspun, handknit Corinne from knitty.com., and doesn’t she look fantastic?

Just as I was about to hit “Publish” on this post, in walked Annie with her finished Rib & Cabled Wrap from the book “Folk Chic” by Debbie Bliss, available here at the shop.  Jill got to model this masterpiece, knit in madelinetosh Tosh DK, color “Tart.”  (Our fall shipment of madelinetosh is due soon, by the way.)  Annie worked hard to achieve just the fit she wanted, and her flattering modifications were right on target.  Bravo, Annie!

P.S. I did pretty well on my Rhinebeck diet of more picture-taking and less yarn-buying.  Pictures here soon.  Until then, enjoy Clara Parkes’s Rhinebeck A-Z, in the latest issue of her Knitter’s Review.

Jane gets top billing because her Miss Terry has waited the longest for its picture to be taken.  There’s a lot going on in this pretty lace shawl, knit from our Wool Bamboo by Classic Elite Yarns.  First I tried shooting it on Maude in the usual way but didn’t think the pattern showed up well enough. Then I got closer and swept one edge up to show a bit more detail, then tried laying it across a chair back, and, finally, got really close to show Jane’s lovely beading.  Trust me – this is one of those projects you just have to see in person to fully appreciate!

Bonnie really knits it all – from fashionable sweaters to delightfully goofy baby hats. Her sweater vest with buttons-in-the-front-and-back uses three different Trendsetter yarns, including Vigna.  Her button choices are inspired!  The Puppy Hat comes from the book 60 More Quick Knits in Cascade 220 Sport (currently in stock at GYI). How cute is this?

Does Kelly have Second Mitten-itis?  Absolutely not!  Although we have only the left Mister mitten from the Love Bytes Robot Mittens to show, the way Kelly zips through projects, Miss Right should be arriving very soon.  Kelly also shared her gorgeous Annis Shawl from Knitty.com, knit from an indie dyer’s lace weight in a deep blue called “Asteroid.”  Heavenly, indeed.

Mary Ann , who lives now in Utah, emailed me a shot of her Cable Treat Hat from Issue 75 (January 2011) of Simply Knitting.  This clever lady wasn’t happy with any of the scarf patterns she found to match her hat once finished, so with her remaining Lamb’s Pride Superwash Worsted she made up her own!

Finally, Jill has a treat for you – the much-loved Tulip Sweater from Dream in Color Yarns. This has been a super popular pattern ever since The Yarn Harlot herself, Stephanie Pearl McPhee, blogged about her addiction back in 2007.  Now you can begin your own collection with one of our Tulip Sweater Kits.  Tell us the size you’d like to knit (6-9 months, 2 years, 4 years, or 6 years), and we’ll wind off just the right amount of yarn for you, either the girl’s version with all eight shades or a boy’s version sans pink and peach.  Kits include yarn and pattern.

I’m looking forward to giving the new camera a good workout at Rhinebeck this weekend at the NY State Sheep & Wool Festival.  If all goes according to plan, I’ll come home with lots of photos and barely any yarn.  You’ll see how well I do next week!

As gift-makers, we want those gift projects to go fast.  Go fast… and be just flashy enough so a non-knitting/crocheting recipient just might think we spent a little more time than we actually did.  Go fast, be flashy… and be functional.  We want to see our gifts used and loved, right?  With that in mind, GYI is offering a new series of four one-session classes on weekend afternoons to jump start your gift knitting: Quicknits for Fall. Take as many as you like.  Each  class will present useful techniques and get you going on a different small, fast, fun project:

• Quicknits: Hat on Sunday, October 30; 1:00-3:30 p.m.  You choose the size head you’ll be knitting for (adult/child/baby), and we’ll show you how to work in the round on both circular and double pointed needles plus how to do a tubular cast-on for a completely “edgeless start” to your ribbing. $40 plus purchase of Knitting Pure & Simple pattern and yarn.
• Quicknits: Mukluks on Saturday, November 5; 1:00-3:30 p.m. Mukluks are comfy, warm slipper boots, and making them is a great intro to three-dimensional knitting; some parts are worked flat, others in the round on DPNs. Your choice of a range of sizes from child to adult.  $40 plus purchase of Knitting Pure & Simple pattern and yarn.
• Quicknits: Scarf on Sunday, November 13; 1:00-3:30 p.m.  Take soft, chunky weight yarn (either rustic or glitzy), apply a cable needle, and voilà! You’ll have a reversible cable scarf in no time. $40 plus purchase of yarn.
• Quicknits: Fingerless Gloves on Sunday, November 20; 1:00-3:30 p.m.  Yes, you’ll be knitting on double pointed needles and working an easy two-color pattern on your very first try.  Learn how to cast on and knit with DPNs and create a thumb gusset for a pretty pair of fingerless gloves. $40 plus purchase of the Cairn pattern by Ysolda Teague and yarn.

Before we get to today’s FOs, just a reminder that other classes available before the end of the year include:

• Intro to Stranded Knitting: Fair Isle Cowl with Carolyn Kern.  Two Saturday sessions, October 15 & 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m., $45 plus purchase of yarn.  If you haven’t already seen it in the shop, Carolyn’s original design, created for the beginning Fair Isle knitter, is just gorgeous:
• Ready, Set, Twist: Knitting Cables with yours truly, Ann Ross.  Learn twist, cross, and traveling cables and cable chart reading while making an all-over design cabled pillow top. One session, offered for your convenience on both Saturday, October 22 and Sunday, October 23, 1:00-3:00 p.m., $3o plus purchase of yarn.
• Just Enough Ruffles, moi again.  Learn all about short rows to make this graceful crescent-shaped ruffled scarf, also a useful cast-on for those projects that call for triple digit stitches. One Sunday session, November 6, 1:00-2:30 p.m., $25 plus purchase of pattern and yarn.

OK, that concludes our commercial message.  On to our regularly scheduled programming!  We have a great assortment of FOs today.  First up, Pat brought in a beautiful soft blanket, made for granddaughter Kelley’s 4th birthday.  Knit in our Tahki Torino, it is just as pretty on one side as the other:

Pat has been knitting for Kelley’s mom Trish, too.  (Beautiful stitching on both projects, Pat!)  The superb top-down sweater, at right, in cloud-soft Misti Alpaca Chunky is headed Trish’s way.

Our Dream Club began in September.  For six months, Dream Club members will be receiving exclusive yarns and single-skein patterns created by the master dyers at Dream in Color.  The first shipment was a worsted cashmere blend with an accompanying pattern, Fairy Mitts, by Maria Leigh.  This week, when the Club met again to pick up October’s yarn, Cheryl brought in her completed Fairy Mitts:

I hope my iPhone camera shows off the charming bud-and-vine pattern, Estonian horizontal braid at the edge of the frill cuff, to say nothing of the amazing colors.  (My new camera will debut next week.)  Cheryl said she made a second pair with another yarn, she enjoyed the pattern so much.  Brava, Cheryl!

Gloves, mittens… Expect to see many more in our FO galleries in the coming weeks. I stumbled across a free pattern on the Knitting Pure & Simple website last Saturday that’s perfect for our Cascade Lana Grande.  Try them yourself!  Fast.  How fast?  Stephanie cast on and had one peacock blue mitt finished at Stitch & Spin the next day, while Gina had her lipstick red pair ready for their close-up by mid-week:

Most of our stock of ribbony Colinette Giotto has been made into snazzy drop stitch scarves.  Did you know Giotto is absolutely fabulous for garments, too?  Penny shared her oh-so-fashionable Eve cardigan with us:Isn’t it amazing?  Soft, with great drape, and ready to be worn year-round.  Lucky Penny!

Carolyn experimented with stitch patterns until she hit on one that really did justice to the yarn combination of Filatura di Crosa Superior with Nirvana, a classic pairing that yields the softest fabric imaginable, thanks to Superior being a blend of cashmere and silk.  Unfortunately, my camera phone had a tough time with a jet black scarf on a shiny black table under direct overhead fluorescent lighting.  Trust me, it is a masterpiece – simple, elegant, luxurious:

If you have an almost FO, why not join us on a Sunday, between noon and 4:00 p.m.?  Get in some extra stitching time and check out our very newest yarns (they really are yarns, not Italian wines): Luca, Diamante, and Ritratto.  We’ll be open each Sunday in October (except the 16th, when we’ll be at Rhinebeck), November, and December 4th and 11th.  That’s six days a week, gosh yarn it!