Thursday, December 31, 2009

Class: Knit a Cardigan (Central Park Hoodie)

1/7, 1/14, 2/18, 2/25, 3/11 (Thursdays) 6:00-8:00 and Saturday 3/27 (2:00-5:00) | $90

In addition there are two dates (Sunday 1/31 and 3/7, from 10:30-1:30) for optional checking in and knitting together during the breaks between classes, which is free with the class. There is a lot of knitting in this class, and we are encouraging students to meet at the shop on the Knit-a-long dates.

There are few cardigan patterns more popular than the Central Park Hoodie (Ravel it!). If you've been wanting to try a great, straightforward pattern which can customized if needed, this is the cardigan for you! And don't be afraid of seaming - that's what that last Saturday class is for!

What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch

What we'll teach you how to do:
- cables
- cable without a cable needle
- change cable patterns if wanted
- read charts
- adjust pattern for gauge

What materials are included:
- pattern
- instruction

Students should provide their own needles and yarn (while we are happy to steer you towards appropriate yarn, students should feel free to knit from stash), so that they can get the gauge required for the pattern, which is 17 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. If your gauge is a little off (say, if you'd rather use a lighter weight yarn), one of the things we will discuss in the class is how to adjust the pattern for different gauge.


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Holiday hour update

Just a quick reminder about our holiday hours this week -

Wednesday 12/30: open regular hours, 10-7
Thursday 12/31: open 10-4
Friday 1/01: closed
Saturday 1/02: open regular hours, 10-7
Sunday 1/03: open regular hours, 10-7
Monday 1/04: open regular hours, 10-7

Have a great New Years, everyone!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Monday Morning Spinning

Don't forget that on the first Monday of the month, from 11-1, you can bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with others to do some spinning! This gathering is great for spinners who work at night and can't get to an afternoon or evening gathering.

See you on January 4th?

Spinning alpaca

2009 FOs Year In Review - Socks

It looks like I knocked out a couple of socks this year!

Uncle Joe's socks

Pattern: Ribbed Socks
Yarn: Rocket Yarn


Spring Monkeys

Pattern: Monkey
Yarn: Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye


Dark Marigold

Pattern: Marigold
Yarn: Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye


Testy Rib socks

Pattern: Ribbed Socks
Yarn: Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye


Class socks #2

Pattern: Basic Adult Sock by Ann Norling
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sport


Lacy Summer Rainbow Socks

Pattern: Lacy Summer Socks
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock


Sock Monkey Monkey Socks

Pattern: Monkey
Yarn: Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye


Air Raid!

Pattern: Air Raid
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock


Pheasant L'orange

Pattern: Pheasant Run
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock


Rock-a-bye Sweet Baby James

Pattern: Crest of the Wave
Yarn: Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye

Afghan Seaming Slumber Party

Get out your PJs and gather up all the afghan squares you've been plugging away on all year, it’s time for an afghan seaming slumber party at Hanks!

It’ll be on Saturday, January 9th from 8:00pm to 11:00pm (We’re actually old ladies in disguise. Can’t miss that late showing of McGuyver, you know.). Ten dollars will get you in the door and covers drinkies and snacks.

Ideally you would have at least two completed squares to bring to the party. And if you have a handful of squares but no idea of how to seam them together, no worries - there will be people there to talk things over with and to help you learn to seam your afghan squares together.

This event will be limited to 15 people, so pull out your wallets and get them to the shop asap! We’ll also take Paypal sent to hanksyarn@gmail.com.

Want to come to the party but don't have an afghan to seam? If we have any spots open after January 6th, we'll open those up to people who just want to come and hang out with knitter peeps in PJs. Heck, maybe you could even whip up two swatches before then, and learn some seaming skills!

Monday, December 21, 2009

2009 FOs Year In Review - Hats

In looking back over the year, it seems that I've knit a lot of hats --

The last hat for a WHILE, yo

Pattern: From the Ann Norling "Head Hugger" pattern
Yarn: GGH Tara


Joe Nakiska

Pattern: (OK, technically a headband) Nakiska (from Knitty.com)
Yarn: Trendsetter Merinos VIII


Coronet in Blue

Pattern: Coronet (from Knitty.com)
Yarn: Malabrigo worsted weight


I'm a dork!

Pattern: Hallowig (from Knitty.com)
Yarn: Trendsetter Merinos VIII


House Hat (1 of 2)

Pattern: House Hat, from the book "Charmed Knits"
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted


House Hat (2 of 2)

Pattern: House Hat, from the book "Charmed Knits"
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted


August in a Hat

Pattern: Based on our August afghan square
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Green Line Worsted

And I have one more hat on the needles right now - The Sunflower Tam from the book "Knitting Nature", being knit in the December sock club yarn. But I'm not guaranteeing that I'll have it finished by the end of the year!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Friday Photo

Giant! Green! Afghan!

Handspun and handknit afghan by Lorena; baby by Susan. The afghan took slightly less time to make, but the baby is - hands down - much more adorable! OM NOM NOM MUST EAT CHEEKS.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Upcoming Holiday Hours

This week we will be open our regular business hours (10-7 every day but Tuesday). Following is the schedule for the next two holiday weeks:

Wednesday 12/23: open regular hours, 10-7
Thursday 12/24: open 10-4
Friday 12/25: closed
Saturday 12/26: closed
Sunday 12/27: open regular hours, 10-7
Monday 12/28: open regular hours, 10-7

Wednesday 12/30: open regular hours, 10-7
Thursday 12/31: open 10-4
Friday 1/01: closed
Saturday 1/02: open regular hours, 10-7
Sunday 1/03: open regular hours, 10-7
Monday 1/04: open regular hours, 10-7

We hope you are enjoying everything you are celebrating at this time of year (or enjoying not celebrating)!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Thursday evening Spin-a-long

Don't forget that on the third Thursday of the month, from 5-7, you can bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with others to do some spinning! This gathering is great for spinners who work or go to school during the day and can't get to the morning gathering.

See you on December 17th?

Sharon and Jane

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Class: Seaming and Picking Up Stitches

Saturday December 19 | 10:30 AM -1:30 PM | $30 | Materials Not Included

Struggling with messy seams, or even go to great lengths to avoid them? Hate seaming because it never looks good no matter what you do? Confused about picking up so many stitches evenly around? This workshop is for you! Practice row-to-row seaming, and discuss stitch-to-stitch, and stitch-to-row seaming. Pick up and knit the right number of stitches for both front edges and around a curve.

You will need to knit three small swatches prior to this workshop. Instructions/dimensions available when signing up for the class.


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached, we will cancel or reschedule the class and a full refund will be given.

Upcoming Classes - December through March

Please note: Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

All materials included unless otherwise specified.

December


Introduction to Spinning on a Drop Spindle
12/17 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30

Seaming and Picking up Stitches
12/19 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $30

January

Knit a Cardigan: Central Park Hoodie
1/7, 1/14, 2/18, 2/25, 3/11 (Thurs) and Sat 3/27 (2-5) | 6:00-8:00 | $90
(Class includes pattern and instruction; student should provide needles and yarn - we will gladly help advise on yarns)

Knit a Cardigan KAL meetup
1/31, 3/7 (Sun) | 10:30-1:30 | Free with class

Kids Series: Intro to Knitting Hats
1/9, 1/16, 1/30 (Sat) | 10:30-12:30 | $80

Yarn Bombing
Saturdays 1/9 (2-5 PM) and 2/20 (6-8 PM) | $45

Yarn Bombing KAL meetup
Sunday 1/24 | 10:30-1:30 | Free with class

Intro to Cuff-down Socks Knitted on DPNs
1/11, 1/18, 1/25 (Mon) | 6:00-8:00 |$75

Intro to Knitting
1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3 (Wed) | 6:00-8:00 | $100

Into to Knitting Hats
1/21, 1/28, 2/4 (Thurs) | 6:00-8:00 | $80

Australian Locker Hooking
Friday January 22 | 6:00-8:00 | $50

Knitted Gloves with Twisted Stitches: Entangled Stitches
1/30, 2/13, 2/20 (Sat) | 2:00-5:00 | $80

February

Design and Knit Fair Isle Mittens
2/1, 2/15, 3/1 (Mon) | 6:00-8:00 | $80

Introduction to Spinning
2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 3/5 (Fri) | 6:00-8:00 | $125

Intro to Knitting Continental Style
Monday February 8 | 6:00-8:00 | $25
(Students should already know how to knit)

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Beaded Knitting
2/13, 2/20 (Sat) | 10:30-1:30 | $65

Introduction to Making Melt & Pour Soap
Sunday February 14 | 10:30-1:30 | $40

Intro to Knitting Hats
2/17, 2/24, 3/3 (Wed) | 6:00-8:00 | $80

Knit a Cabled Hat: Coronet
2/22, 3/8, 3/15 (Mon) | 6:00-8:00 | $80

Introduction to Spinning on a Drop Spindle
Saturday February 27 | 10:30-1:30 | $30

Knit a Lace Cowl: Pretty Thing
2/27, 3/6 (Sat) | 2:00-5:00 | $70

March

Knitting Lace Socks
3/4, 3/18, 3/25 (Thurs) | 6:00-8:00 | $75
(Yarn and pattern provided; students should bring favorite sock needles)

Intro to Toe-up Socks Knitted on Two Circular Needles
3/6, 3/13, 3/20 (Sat) | 10:30-1:30 | $75

Blending Fibers with Hand & Drum Carders
Saturday March 6 | 2:00-5:00 | $40

Intro to Knitting
3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31 (Wed) | 6:00-8:00 | $100

Sweater Design Workshop
3/12, 3/19, 3/26 (Fri) | 6:00-8:00 | $75

Kids Series: Intro to Knitting
3/13, 3/20 (Sat) | 2:00-4:00 | $60

Intro and Next-Step Crochet
3/22, 3/29 (Mon) | 6:00-8:00 | $60

Drafting Workshop
Saturday March 27 | 10:30-1:30 | $40

Introduction to Making Melt & Pour Soap
Sunday March 28 | 10:30-1:30 | $40

Friday, December 11, 2009

Friday Photo

This photo is for Jane, who recently said in passing, "I'm thinking about knitting another Dr. Who scarf"...

Dr. Jane

So this is just a gentle reminder of how much fun the last one was!

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Meet-Ups and Gatherings

All meet-ups and gatherings are free and open to the public!

Stitch ‘n’ Bitch

Join this eclectic group of folks for a little crochet, knitting, and chatting about everything under the sun. Everyone is welcome!
Sundays | 2-4:30

UFO Friday: Unfinished Object Friday & The Kniterati
Come in Friday night and have some fun! Get some inspiration for working on your unfinished projects over the weekend. This is a much smaller group than the Sunday afternoon group, so if smaller settings are what you prefer, this meeting might be for you. Tea, laughing, and good people abound.

The Kniterati are a fabulous co-ed group of college age folks (both students and recent graduates) who take their crocheting and knitting with a large dose of humor. Like-minded people always welcome (Eddie Izzard fans and Science Fiction geeks especially)!
Fridays | 5-7

First Monday Morning Spinners
On the first Monday of the month bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with us to do some spinning! This meeting is great for spinners who work at night and can't get to an afternoon or evening gathering.
First Monday of the month | 11-1

Third Thursday Evening Spinners
On the third Thursday of the month bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with us to do some spinning! This meeting is great for spinners who work or go to school during the day and can't get to the morning gathering.
Third Thursday of the month | 5-7

And of course, anyone is welcome to stop by and have a little sit-down any time we’re open!

Monday, December 7, 2009

December Sock Club

The December sock club yarn is moments away from being ready!

IMG_6861

All it needs is color... HAHAHAH! Get it? Black and white photo? Needs color? ... ...

... ...

(insert crickets)

ANYWAY.

If you’re local and in the December sock club, you can swing by the shop any time after Wednesday and pick yours up (or heck... tonight, even, if you can get here before 7, *muhuwhahahahah*). If you’re not local and you’re in the December sock club, start looking in your mailboxes around Wednesday!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Class: Knitting Lace Socks

December 12 and 19 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $75

If you have knit socks previously, and are wanting to learn more about lace patterns and chart reading, this is the class for you. Knit cuff-down on US size 1 double-point needles, this intermediate lace pattern also incorporates columns of stitches knit through the back loop - trust me, those really pop out and make the pattern look fantastic!

This is not a good class for a first-time sock knitter, as the cuff of the sock will need to be knit on your own before class; but if you have previous experience knitting socks and are familiar with basic sock construction, this is the class for you (even if you've never knit lace before).

In progress: Pheasant L'orange

What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- you should have some previous sock knitting experience

What we'll teach you how to do:
- twisted stitches
- incorporate lace stitches into a sock pattern
- read charts

What materials are included:
- pattern
- appropriate yarn for a pair of socks

Students should provide their own sock needles, so that they can knit using whichever method they prefer (double-pointed needles, magic loop, socks on two circulars).


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Sock Monkey Yarn



We've started to bring in the June sock club colorway, Sock Monkey - right now we only have a few skeins, but we'll have more by the end of the month. So keep your eyes on our blog to find out when we get more!

PS. We're going to be working on redoing the website soon, so right now this isn't up on the site - but swing by or give us a call if you're not in the area and we'd be happy to tell you what we have and/or ring you up over the phone!

Friday, December 4, 2009

Class: Blending Fibers with Hand and Drum Carders

December 11 (Friday) | 6-9 PM | $40
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle

Spinners must have some experience in spinning and should bring own wheels or drop spindles if they wish to spin their blends immediately.

Spinners should bring hand carders and/or drum carders if they have one; however, there will be a drum carder available for the class.

Sophia's Pink (mosaic)


What you need to know how to do:
- You should have some experience with spinning.

What we'll teach you how to do:
- blend different fibers together using hand carders and/or a drum carder

What materials are included:
- silk, bamboo, and wool fibers for blending
- appropriate fiber for spinning



Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Monday Morning Spin-a-long

Don't forget that on the first Monday of the month, from 11-1, you can bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with others to do some spinning! This gathering is great for spinners who work at night and can't get to an afternoon or evening gathering.

See you on December 7th?

These are a few of my favorite things

Friday Photo

Rocking the crazy knitting lady look, yo!

If I could have gotten a foot into that photo, too, you could have seen my handknit socks. I love colder weather (for the three days we have it, anyway).

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

2009: The Year of the Afghan (December)


Aw, it's December! And that means the last of our monthly afghan squares. You can download this fair isle pattern here. If you need a few pointers on fair isle, consider signing up for our class for this square on Saturday, December 5th at 2pm.

Watch this space for the date of our afghan seaming party! We'll have nibbles and wine on hand, as well as lots of help and advice on how to attach your squares together.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Revisiting my 2009 afghan squares

(Continued from here.)

When last we left our intrepid hero afghan, it was lying on the floor in pieces, dejected because I pitched a number of squares and didn't like the color combo of the squares who were left.

Over-dyeing, however, can be your friend!

Sometimes.

In progress: 2009 afghan

Am I maybe color-blind?

Clearly it's time to talk to myself as if I were a customer asking for help.

Self, what don't you like about these squares?
- I don't like the variation in color. In hindsight, I should really have stuck to one color, maybe two. I know, I know, I was knitting from stash for a gauge... but next time I should just buy the yarn in bulk.

Anything else?
- I also don't like the white as a border/tie-in, especially since over-dyeing the lightest squares in a darker color. I feel it jumps out too much. Especially since I ran out of the tweedy white and switched to a bright white.

Well, then, self; I have two bits of advice. One is to consider over-dyeing everything, even the ones you've already done, in black. The other thing to consider is getting a different, darker color yarn to do the borders (did you really just spell that "boarders"?!). Rip out the white - you're going to be dyeing those squares anyway - and redo all of the borders/tie-ins all in the same color. Perhaps a brown, or dark red. Either one of those would look good with the black.
- Hey... that might work. Thanks, self!

Stay tuned, hopefully for the resolution...

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Class: 2009 Afghan - The December Square

December 5 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)

During 2009 we will be making an afghan. While the patterns will always be free (like the 2008 scarf patterns), we will be offering workshops for those that need a little jump-start. Classes will give you dedicated class time and instruction, a set of needles, and appropriate yarn for the project. Should you already have your yarn picked out, we are offering the workshop for half-price if you provide your own materials.

December is Fair Isle.

During the class we will get you started on the December square. We will provide needles and the appropriate weight yarn for the afghan (all squares will call for a worsted weight yarn that gets between 4-5 sts/inch on a US 7-9 needle), get you cast on and the first pattern repeat accomplished. As mentioned above, if you already have your yarn picked out, we are offering the workshop for half-price for providing your own materials.


What you need to know how to do:
- cast on/bind off
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch

What we'll teach you how to do:
- fair isle (back and forth; not in the round)
- read charts

What materials are included:
- the pattern
- appropriate yarn (if needed)
- appropriate needles (if needed)
- a cable needle (if needed)


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

You wanted chunky, we got chunky!


Del Sur, by Aslan Trends, is a slubby (thick and thin) yarn that comes in 87 yard put-ups and gets 2-3 stitches to the inch on a US 13-15 (it's $12.75/skein). We got eight colors in, and they are all fabulous. We're going to be working on redoing the website after Thanksgiving, so right now this isn't up on the site - but swing by or give us a call if you're not in the area and we'd be happy to tell you about what we have!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Threadless Contest

Do you love Threadless tshirts as much as we do? Then consider entering their knitting/crocheting contest! Knit or crochet any item inspired by a Threadless tshirt to win one of many prizes. Sounds like fun, eh? Then pick up those needles and hooks and get to it!

Another great Uptown Art Hop

We had another fantastic Uptown Art Hop last week. If you missed it, here are a few photos:

Another great Uptown Art Hop

Monday, November 23, 2009

Class: Beaded Lace Knitting - Leaf Lace Shawl

November 30 and December 14 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $125

If you're familiar with the Leaf Lace Shawl, you know that it doesn't call for beads... but we like it that way! This will be a great class for someone looking to dress up their lace knitting by learning how to add beads whenever you want them in a pattern.

This class is not for the new knitter; but it would be great for someone already experienced with casting on, both the knit and purl stitches, and increasing and decreasing. Even if this is your first introduction to lace, the motivated knitter can still tackle this.

What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- increasing, such as YO
- decreasing, such as K2tog and SSK

What we'll teach you how to do:
- how to knit with beads

What materials are included:
- the pattern
- appropriate yarn
- appropriate needles
- appropriate beads



Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Frequent Buyer Program

We've gotten a number of new customers over the last few months, and while we try to remember to tell everyone, we wanted to make sure that anyone we forgot to tell knows that we offer a discount to Frequent Shoppers.

From the page about it on our online shop:
Are you a regular shopper with Hanks Yarn and Fiber? Did you know that we offer a Frequent Buyer Program both in the store and online?

* Spend $500 and get a 10% discount on all future purchases!
* Spend $1000 and get a 15% discount on all future purchases!

How does it work? We enter you into our computer in the shop, or you fill out an online profile, and we track your purchases over time. When you've spent $500, you automagically start getting your discount-- and when you've spent $1000, your discount gets even better!
- You don't have to spend the $500 or $1000 all at one time; we track your purchases so no matter how long (or how soon) it takes, your discount will kick in.
- Sales in the shop and online both count towards your total.

Have any questions? Feel free to drop us a line using our Contact Page and we will get back with you as soon as possible.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Easter has come early...

We got a small Malabrigo shipment - only lace yarns. But what gorgeous colors of lace yarn they are!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Friday Photo

Saartje's Bootees, in Tiger

Got plans tonight? Come to the Uptown Art Hop!

Tonight; Friday, November 20th, from 6-9-- we will have spinning and knitting demonstrations all night, and of course wine, cheese, and general Good Times. And it's not just us -- the district of Uptown at 43rd Street includes art galleries, businesses and restaurants in Millhopper Square, Thornebrook Village, and The Market Place. We'd love to have you join us! See a sampling of some of the best art in Gainesville, ranging from one-of-a- kind locally made art, to gifts from the far corners of the earth. A rickshaw shuttle will allow event goers to easily travel the short distance between stops.

As if you needed another reason, but... why else should you show up? Because Uptown Art Hop merchants will be selling raffle tickets with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to Florida's Eden's One Region One Book program. Tickets are $1 each or 6 tickets for $5. The prize is $150 in gift certificates (in $25 increments) valid at any participating location.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Thanksgiving 2009 Holiday Hours

Hanks Yarn and Fiber will have the following hours for Thanksgiving -

Tuesday 11/24: Closed as usual
Wednesday 11/25: Open regular hours (10-7)
Thursday 11/26: Closed
Friday 11/27: Closed
Saturday 11/28: Open regular hours (10-7)

New Kromski Wheel


Oh spinners! And wannabe spinners! Have we got some exciting news for you. Kromski Spinning Wheels has announced a new wheel in the making - the Fantasia! It won't be released until the new year, so we haven't gotten our grubby little paws on one yet, but it looks to be divine. I can't stop thinking about it myself! The setup is similar to the Louet Julia (My favorite wheel in the whole world.), but retails at a much lower price ($478). A single drive with a Scotch tension, the flyer just pops right off for quick, easy bobbin changes. Ratios run from 5:1 all the way up to 20:1 (with additional whorls).

We've got one on order, and I'll let you know when it makes it to the shop so we can all try it out together!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

We've got Mind's Eye!


We got a shipment of Lucy's lovely Mind's Eye Yarn; seven different colorways. Call us at the shop (352.338-7222) if you're interested (we don't carry this on our website) and we'd be happy to tell you what we got in, and ring you up over the phone!

Monday, November 16, 2009

Thursday evening Spin-a-long

Don't forget that on the third Thursday of the month, from 5-7, you can bring your wheel or drop spindle and some fiber and sit with others to do some spinning! This gathering is great for spinners who work or go to school during the day and can't get to the morning gathering.

See you on November 19th?

The back room having fun

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Uptown Art Hop

The next Uptown Art Hop is coming up soon! Friday, November 20th, from 6-9-- we will have spinning and knitting demonstrations all night, and of course wine, cheese, and general Good Times. And it's not just us -- the district of Uptown at 43rd Street includes art galleries, businesses and restaurants in Millhopper Square, Thornebrook Village, and The Market Place. We'd love to have you join us! See a sampling of some of the best art in Gainesville, ranging from one-of-a- kind locally made art, to gifts from the far corners of the earth. A rickshaw shuttle will allow event goers to easily travel the short distance between stops.

As if you needed another reason, but... why else should you show up? Because Uptown Art Hop merchants will be selling raffle tickets with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to Florida's Eden's One Region One Book program. Tickets are $1 each or 6 tickets for $5. The prize is $150 in gift certificates (in $25 increments) valid at any participating location.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Revisiting June is for Jag

Remember this, from last year? Well, the original has long since gone to live with Jag, but we wanted to continue to show off this pattern because it works so well with different yarns-- and is a great pattern for either a new knitter looking to up their skills just a bit, or someone looking to crank out a pretty scarf in a quick amount of time.


Well, our lovely friend Jacquie knitted this up for us. The pattern is June is for Jag (Ravel it!) and the yarn is Lorna's Laces Green Line Worsted in the "Hermosa" colorway.

Beautifully done, Jacquie - thank you!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Class: Knit a Cookie A. sock (Twisted Flower)

November 19, December 3 and 10 (Thursdays) | 6:00-8:00 | $60

If you have knit socks previously, and are wanting to learn more complicated patterns and chart reading, this is the class for you. Knit cuff-down, this intermediate twisted stitch and cable pattern is fantastic!

This is not a good class for a first-time sock knitter because you'll be knitting the cuff at home before the class starts; but if you have previous experience knitting socks and are familiar with basic sock construction, this is the class for you.


What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- you should have some previous sock knitting experience

What we'll teach you how to do:
- twisted stitches
- read charts
- cables

What materials are included:
- pattern
- appropriate yarn for a pair of socks
- students will provide their own needles for this class, so that you can use the method most comfortable for you (DPNs, two circulars, or magic loop)



Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

What's on your needles?

In progress: Edgewater Pheasant

Right now it just looks like a cuff, but eventually it will grow up to be a sock. The pattern is Pheasant Run, and the yarn is Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in the Edgewater colorway. I just wish I had more time to work on it!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Class: Mini Bridgewater Shawl Blocking Demo

Monday November 16, 2009 | 6:00-8:00 PM | $15

If you also signed up for the class Bridgewater: Knit a Small Shawl, this demo is included in that class. And if you didn't take that class, but want to get all your questions about blocking answered, this is the workshop for you!

Join Caitlin as she blocks her Bridgewater Shawl, and demonstrates blocking lace. She will also answer all of your other questions about blocking, no matter what the project type.

Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

How does that yarn knit up? (part one)

Have you ever searched Ravelry for projects done up in a particular yarn before buying it, in case you don't like how it works up? Or gone ahead and bought it anyway, only to work it up in six different patterns before you find one you like? Well... we maybe can't help you with all yarns, but we can help you with the ones we dye ourselves!

Swatchy: Somewhat Spiral

Here is a swatch knitted up in our sock yarn, in the colorways we have dyed that are meant to spiral (swatches of multi and semi-solids coming later this month). From top down, knitted on US 1 needles in the round with a stitch count of 68, we have Purple Raven, When Doves Cry, Hogtown, and Cosmo.

If you're on Ravelry and have knitted with any of these colorways, we'd love to see your projects added to our group, if you haven't done that already! Or if you're not on Ravelry, we also have a Flickr group and we'd love to see your photos there, too.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Class: Kids Intro to Knitting

November 14 and 21, 2009 (Saturdays) | 2:00-5:00 | $50

This class will be for those who have never knit before, and is geared towards the younger set (ages 5-15 are welcome).



Week One: Learn about tools of the trade; casting on; the knit stitch.

Week Two: Refresher on casting on and the knit stitch; the purl stitch; the difference between garter and stockinette, binding off.

What you need to know how to do:
- nothing!

What we'll teach you how to do:
- about knitting in general (what is yarn? How do you care for it?)
- about the tools used in knitting
- casting on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- simple patterns such as ribbing, garter, stockinette
- binding off

What materials are included:
- "How to Knit", the TNNA book
- needles appropriate to yarn
- Lorna's Laces AHAH yarn


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Friday Photo

The sock has a window seat

Class: Sweater Design Workshop

November 13, 20, and December 4, 2009 | 6-8 PM | $75

Learn how to design and knit your own unique sweater!

Do you look at the yarn in your stash and wish you could make a sweater or vest using it, but can’t find the perfect pattern? In this workshop we will knit a “sweater” fit for the fish king! In this class you will learn all the techniques necessary (ribbing, sweatshirt pockets, afterthought pockets, button holes, increases, decreases, short rows for fit, etc.) to knit a seam-free sweater for yourself or anyone else, bottom up or top down, pull over or cardigan, with some iteration of a raglan sleeve. You will learn how to use Jacqueline Fee’s gauge page which will free you to use any yarn you want; handspun or commercial. During the first two weeks while you knit your sampler we will discuss how to make your ideal sweater so it fits the way YOU want it to. You will bring in a favorite fitting sweater and measure your body so you will better understand the ratios involved and begin the design process. In the last class you will knit a swatch with the yarn of your choice and write your own pattern using the skills and knowledge gained during this workshop. You can even cast on for your sweater! We will provide the yarn for your sampler. You bring a selection of needles with your choice of yarn for the last class.



What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- bind off


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The one where nobody asks me for color advice, ever again.

It's November, and while there will be a December square, I won't be making it (Sharon is doing December, and BOY HOWDY! is it going to be a nice one!) so I decided it was time to start thinking of how my afghan is going together. HAHAHAHAHAHA. Apparently I have been smoking crack for the last eleven months... because even though I told myself that (1) using lots of different colors is OK because the crazy quilt look will come together in the end and (2) that minor fluctuations in size are OK because that will all work out in the blocking... HAHAHAHAHA.

In progress: 2009 Afghan

Sigh... above is the potential layout of my afghan, minus the six squares I took out after much moving of squares around. I took out a handful, even though I wanted a bigger afghan, because the bright green and bright blues that were in them really just didn't mesh well with the muted colors of the rest of the squares. HOWEVER... after I took them out and fretted a bit over (1) having a smaller afghan than I wanted or (2) knitting a few more squares to make it bigger or (3) doing a log-cabin sort of border around it to make it bigger... I thought, "I can overdye the squares I don't like!"... and that's what I've done. They're drying now... so the above layout will change. Good thing I'm only crocheting borders around the smaller ones to make them all the same size, and haven't actually started putting them together!

I'll keep you all posted. I know the rest of you knitting squares are on the edge of your seats...!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Class: Introduction to Knitting

November 11, 18, December 2, and 9, 2009 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $100

This class will be for those who have never knit before, or perhaps learned years ago but set it aside and feel that they need a refresher from the beginning steps.



Week One: Learn about different weights of yarn and the different projects they can be used for; how to read a yarn label; tools of the trade; casting on; the knit stitch.

Week Two: Refresher on casting on and the knit stitch; the purl stitch; the difference between garter and stockinette.

Week Three: Ribbing; increases and decreases; changing to a new ball of yarn; changing to a different color.

Week Four: Symbols and charts; the importance of dye lots; yarn substitution; cables; binding off.

What you need to know how to do:
- nothing!

What we'll teach you how to do:
- about knitting in general (what is yarn? How do you care for it?)
- about the tools used in knitting
- casting on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- simple patterns such as ribbing, garter, stockinette
- binding off

What materials are included:
- "How to Knit", the TNNA book
- needles appropriate to yarn
- Lorna's Laces AHAH yarn
- a tool kit including stitch markers, needle gauge, tape measure, row counter, tapestry needles, stitch holders, and more


Classes do fill up early; so please reserve your space in the class by paying in advance as it is unlikely we will be able to accommodate walk-ins. Payment is required within 7 days of signing up for the class or within one week before the class begins (whichever comes first). All classes limited to five people unless otherwise stated. A minimum of 2 students is required for most classes to take place. If the minimum for a class is not reached within 48 hours of the class, we will cancel the class and contact you in regards to rescheduling or a refund. Individual classes/lessons available by request (prices may vary). Homework is required in most of our classes; we know that all of you have busy schedules but please be sure to allow time to finish the work needed for classes.

What's on your needles?

I'm currently working on Wicked (Ravel it!), using Louet Gems worsted weight. I'm teaching a class on this pattern, love it, and also hear that eventually at some point in the future we might possibly get some cooler weather. In theory. And if we do, I'll be ready!


In progress: Red Red Wicked

Monday, November 2, 2009

Sweet pretty sparkly Prism

We got a couple of pretties in from Prism this week -


Y'all better get in quick if you want that Saki - the red/brown/purple/green one is calling my name!