If you missed out on June, for July the pattern will be Emily Miller's Air Raid Socks. Hmmm... what color of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock do I want to use for this one...?
Monday, June 29, 2009
Lacy Summer Rainbows
Remember earlier in the month when I mentioned the Lorna's Laces Knit-along? I finished my socks--
If you missed out on June, for July the pattern will be Emily Miller's Air Raid Socks. Hmmm... what color of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock do I want to use for this one...?
If you missed out on June, for July the pattern will be Emily Miller's Air Raid Socks. Hmmm... what color of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock do I want to use for this one...?
Class: Intro to Cables and Twisted Stitches
July 2 and 9 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 |$50
Materials provided
Have you been knitting for a while, but just haven’t ventured into the world of cables yet? If you can already cast on, knit, purl, and bind off, you can take this class and have a great time in it!
Join us to learn about cables and twisted stitches, the difference between them, and start knitting up a dishcloth that will show off your new skills.
What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- bind off
What we'll teach you how to do:
- cable
- left twist
- right twist
- read charts
What materials are included:
- pattern
- needles appropriate to yarn
- one skein of Lana Grossa Linea Pura Organico
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. 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.
Materials provided
Have you been knitting for a while, but just haven’t ventured into the world of cables yet? If you can already cast on, knit, purl, and bind off, you can take this class and have a great time in it!
Join us to learn about cables and twisted stitches, the difference between them, and start knitting up a dishcloth that will show off your new skills.
What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- bind off
What we'll teach you how to do:
- cable
- left twist
- right twist
- read charts
What materials are included:
- pattern
- needles appropriate to yarn
- one skein of Lana Grossa Linea Pura Organico
- cable needle
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. 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, June 28, 2009
Holiday Hours
Hanks Yarn and Fiber will be closed for the day on Saturday, July 4; reopening at noon on Sunday, July 5th. Happy Independence Day, everyone!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
2009: The Year of the Afghan (the FAQ)
This post will be updated as needed, as more questions come in
Why are there different cast-on numbers if all the squares are supposed to be the same size?
Different stitch patterns have different number repeats, and whereas some patterns (stockinette; simple knit and purl patterns like basketweave) have little to no effect on the yarn, some patterns (specifically cables) can pull the yarn in and sort of squish it together. Yes, squish is a technical term! So if we're doing a pattern that's going to pull in more, there has to be more stitches there-- otherwise it will be smaller than the others.
Why isn't my square coming out to be the same size as the one pictured?
Knitters knit differently! Both you and I might be using worsted weight yarn and US 8 needles, but one of us might get 5 stitches to the inch, and the other might get 4.5 stitches to the inch. Or you might even get a different gauge yourself, depending on how you hold your yarn, or if you're more stressed out or more relaxed when you're knitting different squares. As of writing this, I've made about 15 squares and none of them are exactly the same size.
Will this afghan be reversible?
No, that's not the way it was designed. The first couple of patterns also looked nice on the reverse side, but that was just the luck of that particular pattern; we never intended to make the afghan reversible.
I'm on a Mac and am having trouble opening the PDF from your website! It's just a bunch of symbols and squiggles. What do I do?
The answer to this one comes in from one of our customers (thanks, unclelori!) -
This afghan was designed to be a sort of learn-more-as-you-go project. While you could certainly make an afghan out of the first couple of months, we're hoping that as we up the challenge level that you will rise to the occasion and take on some new skills. Many of the people taking the classes at our shop have mentioned that they feel like they are much better knitters than they were at the beginning of the year, and that they don't know why they were always afraid of introducing new colors/cabling/cabling without a cable needle/etc.
January - why are my blocks longer than the one in the picture?
Some people found the row four/row five division to be a little confusing. Row four and row five are exactly the same, only row four is knitted across the back of the square and row five is knitted across the front. If you accidentally skipped the instructions for row 5, and went straight to the instructions for row six, this would make the boxes longer.
April - how do you bring in the second color?
Stop knitting with - but do not cut - color A. Leaving about a 4-6inch tail with color B, pick it up and knit as you were with color A. When you get back to picking up color A, do not cut color B-- because these row repeats are even numbers, color A (or B) will always be on the correct side when you go to use them (unless you accidentally do an extra row). You can simply wrap one yarn around the other and carry both yarns up the side.
April - how do I slip my stitches?
In general, you should slip the stitches holding your needle as if to purl, rather than if to knit. However; on Row 5, you will want to keep your working yarn in the back of your work when slipping stitches (and don't forget that you're dropping those two extra wraps off the needle to elongate those slipped stitches in order to accommodate them stretching over four rows), as you're working on the front side of the square. On Row 6 you will need to move your working yarn to the front when slipping; even though you are knitting (not purling), as you're on the back side and you want the yarn to not block the view of the slipped stitches on the front. On Row 7, even though you are purling (not knitting) and you are slipping your stitches while holding your needle as if to purl, you will want to move your working yarn to the back when slipping stitches, as you're working on the front side of the square and you don't want the working yarn to hide or come across the slipped stitches. Row 8 is exactly like Row 6.
What can you tell me about blocking?
Blocking will definitely improve the look of not only each individual square, but the afghan as a whole. Blocking evens out stitches and makes everything looks more smooth, and blocking can also be used as a tool to help your square get to a certain size (within reason). There is a good article on About.com that talks about different methods of blocking here.
How are we going to seam this?
We've previously talked about seaming here.
When is the next pattern coming out?
Patterns come out on the 1st of the month, unless the 1st is a Tuesday (we're closed on Tuesdays and are busyeating bonbons and watching soap operas doing laundry and cleaning our houses). In that case... say, in September, the pattern will be released on the 2nd.
Why are there different cast-on numbers if all the squares are supposed to be the same size?
Different stitch patterns have different number repeats, and whereas some patterns (stockinette; simple knit and purl patterns like basketweave) have little to no effect on the yarn, some patterns (specifically cables) can pull the yarn in and sort of squish it together. Yes, squish is a technical term! So if we're doing a pattern that's going to pull in more, there has to be more stitches there-- otherwise it will be smaller than the others.
Why isn't my square coming out to be the same size as the one pictured?
Knitters knit differently! Both you and I might be using worsted weight yarn and US 8 needles, but one of us might get 5 stitches to the inch, and the other might get 4.5 stitches to the inch. Or you might even get a different gauge yourself, depending on how you hold your yarn, or if you're more stressed out or more relaxed when you're knitting different squares. As of writing this, I've made about 15 squares and none of them are exactly the same size.
Will this afghan be reversible?
No, that's not the way it was designed. The first couple of patterns also looked nice on the reverse side, but that was just the luck of that particular pattern; we never intended to make the afghan reversible.
I'm on a Mac and am having trouble opening the PDF from your website! It's just a bunch of symbols and squiggles. What do I do?
The answer to this one comes in from one of our customers (thanks, unclelori!) -
Here’s the scoop: this works when opening in Adobe Acrobat, which is the default PDF reader on most computers. However, it does not work in Preview, which is the usual Mac application for PDFs. I asked someone about this, and he said the 11MB file was probably just too big for Preview to handle. If you have this issue, open the document in Acrobat - it should work fine.Why do the patterns keep getting more complicated as the months go on?
This afghan was designed to be a sort of learn-more-as-you-go project. While you could certainly make an afghan out of the first couple of months, we're hoping that as we up the challenge level that you will rise to the occasion and take on some new skills. Many of the people taking the classes at our shop have mentioned that they feel like they are much better knitters than they were at the beginning of the year, and that they don't know why they were always afraid of introducing new colors/cabling/cabling without a cable needle/etc.
January - why are my blocks longer than the one in the picture?
Some people found the row four/row five division to be a little confusing. Row four and row five are exactly the same, only row four is knitted across the back of the square and row five is knitted across the front. If you accidentally skipped the instructions for row 5, and went straight to the instructions for row six, this would make the boxes longer.
April - how do you bring in the second color?
Stop knitting with - but do not cut - color A. Leaving about a 4-6inch tail with color B, pick it up and knit as you were with color A. When you get back to picking up color A, do not cut color B-- because these row repeats are even numbers, color A (or B) will always be on the correct side when you go to use them (unless you accidentally do an extra row). You can simply wrap one yarn around the other and carry both yarns up the side.
April - how do I slip my stitches?
In general, you should slip the stitches holding your needle as if to purl, rather than if to knit. However; on Row 5, you will want to keep your working yarn in the back of your work when slipping stitches (and don't forget that you're dropping those two extra wraps off the needle to elongate those slipped stitches in order to accommodate them stretching over four rows), as you're working on the front side of the square. On Row 6 you will need to move your working yarn to the front when slipping; even though you are knitting (not purling), as you're on the back side and you want the yarn to not block the view of the slipped stitches on the front. On Row 7, even though you are purling (not knitting) and you are slipping your stitches while holding your needle as if to purl, you will want to move your working yarn to the back when slipping stitches, as you're working on the front side of the square and you don't want the working yarn to hide or come across the slipped stitches. Row 8 is exactly like Row 6.
What can you tell me about blocking?
Blocking will definitely improve the look of not only each individual square, but the afghan as a whole. Blocking evens out stitches and makes everything looks more smooth, and blocking can also be used as a tool to help your square get to a certain size (within reason). There is a good article on About.com that talks about different methods of blocking here.
How are we going to seam this?
We've previously talked about seaming here.
When is the next pattern coming out?
Patterns come out on the 1st of the month, unless the 1st is a Tuesday (we're closed on Tuesdays and are busy
Friday, June 26, 2009
The 3/50 Project
Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy.
The idea behind the 3/50 project is to commit to spending $50 every month in locally owned businesses, total. Maybe that means rethinking where you spend; choosing to pick up that new book or bird-feeder in a locally owned business instead of the big box where you’ve been shopping. Maybe it means eating out once a month at a locally owned restaurant. Maybe it means spending a little more in person, locally, rather than getting it cheaper (and impersonally) online.
Did you know that if half the employed population in the United States spent $50 a month in locally owned/independent businesses, that would produce more than $40 billion?
Did you know that for every $100 spent in locally owned/independent stores, $68 returns to the community? If you spend that in a chain or big box store, only $43 returns. If you spend it online nothing returns to the community.
Are there three independently owned business that you'd miss if they had to close? Stop in. Say hello. Buy something - even something small and inexpensive. Your purchases are what keeps those businesses around.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Class: Introduction to Crock Pot Dyeing (Sock Weight Yarn)
June 29 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $50 | Materials Included
THIS CLASS IS ALREADY FULL. Rest assured, that while we are taking the dye classes off the schedule for the summer, they will be back in the fall. Feel free to contact us with specifics you'd like to see in future dye classes (for example, dyeing with a particular project in mind, dyeing specific weights of yarn, dyeing for certain color repeats, etc.).
Curious about what it takes to dye your own yarn? Come find out!
Class members will get approximately 400 yards of a sock weight yarn which will be dyed in a crock pot.
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. 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.
THIS CLASS IS ALREADY FULL. Rest assured, that while we are taking the dye classes off the schedule for the summer, they will be back in the fall. Feel free to contact us with specifics you'd like to see in future dye classes (for example, dyeing with a particular project in mind, dyeing specific weights of yarn, dyeing for certain color repeats, etc.).
Curious about what it takes to dye your own yarn? Come find out!
Class members will get approximately 400 yards of a sock weight yarn which will be dyed in a crock pot.
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. 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, June 24, 2009
Class: Knitting Entrelac Socks
June 27, July 18 and 25 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $60
Yarn and pattern provided | Needles not provided
Have you been knitting socks for a while, and feel ready to jump into Entrelac? Even if you've only made a few pairs of socks before, as long as you understand the basics of sock construction, you can take this class! We provide the yarn, pattern, and instruction - you provide your favorite sock needles and a willingness to learn!
What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- bind off
- you should have a basic idea of sock construction; this is not a good "intro to knitting socks" class
What we'll teach you how to do:
- how to knit entrelac in the round
What materials are included:
- pattern
- one skein of appropriate sock-weight yarn (makes two socks)
Students should provide needles appropriate to the yarn, in the method by which you are most comfortable knitting socks (DPNs, two circulars, 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, we will cancel or reschedule the class and a full refund will be given. 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.
Yarn and pattern provided | Needles not provided
Have you been knitting socks for a while, and feel ready to jump into Entrelac? Even if you've only made a few pairs of socks before, as long as you understand the basics of sock construction, you can take this class! We provide the yarn, pattern, and instruction - you provide your favorite sock needles and a willingness to learn!
What you need to know how to do:
- cast on
- the knit stitch
- the purl stitch
- bind off
- you should have a basic idea of sock construction; this is not a good "intro to knitting socks" class
What we'll teach you how to do:
- how to knit entrelac in the round
What materials are included:
- pattern
- one skein of appropriate sock-weight yarn (makes two socks)
Students should provide needles appropriate to the yarn, in the method by which you are most comfortable knitting socks (DPNs, two circulars, 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, we will cancel or reschedule the class and a full refund will be given. 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.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Craft on sale
Just in case you haven't checked the $5 sale bin lately, Vickie Howell Craft (a 65% organic cotton/35% milk protein blend) has been marked down. This won't last long, folks! If you've never worked with it, let me just tell you - it is absolutely my favorite cotton, and I'm not really a cotton lover. Mostly it hurts my wrists... but not Craft. It's fantastic!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Ask and ye shall recieve!
The Friday night group was pleased to still be in the shop when Celena dropped off some more Rocket Yarn and Rocket Roving (including a new lace weight)! -
Believe it or not, some of this even made it through the weekend! If you're not local, feel free to give us a call here at the shop if you want to know what we still have available.
Believe it or not, some of this even made it through the weekend! If you're not local, feel free to give us a call here at the shop if you want to know what we still have available.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Cables and Twists
Looking for a fun one-skein project? Try our new pattern, Cables and Twists (Ravel it!)!
A few notes -
This pattern is charted! There are no written instructions other than what number to cast on, and how many times you should repeat the stitch pattern.
If you do not know how to cable without a cable needle, you will need one for this pattern.
The pattern is not available online, but is available in our shop for free with a purchase of the yarn, Lana Grossa Linea Pura Organico. If you are ordering this yarn online from our online store, please mention in the notes when checking out that you would like a copy of the pattern, and we will include it when we ship your yarn.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
My kingdom for another "S"!
We ran out of letters so had to respell "classes" to "courses"... but I think you still get the idea. More than just yarn!
Monday, June 15, 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 June 18th?
See you on June 18th?
Friday, June 12, 2009
June sock club yarn is ready!
Here's a black & white teaser photo for the June 2009 sock club yarn -
This is a new base yarn for us, too, so we're very excited!
Those of you who get this shipped, it's in the mail to you; and if you opted to pick it up, be sure to swing by the shop this week if you haven't already!
This is a new base yarn for us, too, so we're very excited!
Those of you who get this shipped, it's in the mail to you; and if you opted to pick it up, be sure to swing by the shop this week if you haven't already!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Class: Introduction to NeedleFelting
June 15 and 22 (Mondays) | 6:00-8:00 | $60 | Materials Included
Been nervous about learning how to stab wool repeatedly with sharp needles in order to shape anything from an animal to a vegetable? No need to be nervous any more! This two-week class will teach you the basics of needle felting, which is a fun and easy hobby to pick up. Did we mention it was sharp?
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. 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.
Been nervous about learning how to stab wool repeatedly with sharp needles in order to shape anything from an animal to a vegetable? No need to be nervous any more! This two-week class will teach you the basics of needle felting, which is a fun and easy hobby to pick up. Did we mention it was sharp?
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. 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, June 10, 2009
Apple Harvest is now available!
The December 2008 sock club colorway, Apple Harvest, is now available for sale (this also means that if you are in the club and the colors just weren’t for you, feel free to sell or trade for something else).
We should have it up on our website by the end of the week in both Superwash Merino and Merino/Bamboo sock. Both yarns come in 400-yard skeins; the Merino retails for $20 and the Bamboo for $22.
Here are a pair of Leyburn socks by Lynn -
And I really stretched mine out by combining them with another yarn for a slipped-stitch pair of socks; so much so that I also had enough for a pair of knucks -
We've made some executive changes to the colorway after feedback from club members; there is a little bit less dark green and dark brown, and about twice as much red.
Enjoy!
We should have it up on our website by the end of the week in both Superwash Merino and Merino/Bamboo sock. Both yarns come in 400-yard skeins; the Merino retails for $20 and the Bamboo for $22.
Here are a pair of Leyburn socks by Lynn -
And I really stretched mine out by combining them with another yarn for a slipped-stitch pair of socks; so much so that I also had enough for a pair of knucks -
We've made some executive changes to the colorway after feedback from club members; there is a little bit less dark green and dark brown, and about twice as much red.
Enjoy!
Class: Learn to Knit Hats
June 13, 20, and 27 (Saturdays) | 10:30-1:30 | $75 | Materials Included
This class is already full!
However, we will be offering it again over the summer -
July 6, 13, and 20 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00
August 31, September 7 and 14 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00
Learn to knit hats using an easy, basic pattern; after you learn the basics you can use the same pattern to make a variety of hats using a variety of different weight yarns and needle sizes.
Once you learn the basics of knitting in the round and decreasing, you can add your own stripes, change colors, throw in a rib... be adventurous!
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. 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.
This class is already full!
However, we will be offering it again over the summer -
July 6, 13, and 20 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00
August 31, September 7 and 14 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00
Learn to knit hats using an easy, basic pattern; after you learn the basics you can use the same pattern to make a variety of hats using a variety of different weight yarns and needle sizes.
Once you learn the basics of knitting in the round and decreasing, you can add your own stripes, change colors, throw in a rib... be adventurous!
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. 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, June 8, 2009
Upcoming Classes
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. 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.
July
Knitting Entrelac Socks
June 27, July 18 and 25 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $60
Yarn and pattern provided | Needles not provided
Intro to Cables and Twisted Stitches
July 2 and 9 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 |$50
Intro to Knitting Hats
July 6, 13, and 20 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $80
Intro to Lace Knitting
July 8, 15, 22, and 29 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $110
Intro to Knitting
July 11, 18, 25, and August 1 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $100
2009 Afghan: The July Square
July 11 (Saturday)| 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Knitting vs. Crochet: An Introduction to Both
July 16 and 23 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $55
Spinning Workshop – Drafting
July 17 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Intro to Needlefelting
July 27 and August 3 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $65
Crocheted Flowers
July 30 and August 6 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $85
Introduction to Spinning
July 31, August 7, 14, and 21 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $125
August
2009 Afghan: The August Square
August 1 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Introduction to Spinning on a Drop Spindle
August 5 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Blending Fibers with Hand and Drum Carders
August 8 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $40
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Introduction to Cables (Knit a Washcloth)
August 8 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $30
Knitting Lace Socks
August 8, 15, and 22 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $75
Intro to Knitting Socks on DPNs
August 10, 17, and 24 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $75
Beaded Lace Knitting: Harbour Lights Shawl
August 12, 19, 26, and September 2 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $125
Knitting vs. Crochet: An Introduction to Both
August 13 and 20 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $55
Intro to Knitting
August 15, 22, 29, and September 5 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $100
Knitted Flowers
August 27 and September 3 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $85
Spinning workshop: Spinning and Plying Colors
August 28 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Knitting Fair Isle Socks
August 25, September 12, and 19 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 |$60
Yarn provided | Needles not provided
Introduction to Knitting Hats
August 31, September 7 and 14 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $80
September
Sweater Workshop
September 4, 11, and 25 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $75
2009 Afghan: The September Square
September 5 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Intro to Knitting
September 9, 16, 23, and 30 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $100
Reading Charts; Reading Knitting
September 12, 19, and 26 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $75
Introduction to Needlefelting
September 21 and 28 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $65
Introduction to Cables (Knit a Washcloth)
September 26 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $30
Detailed information for each class will be posted closer to the class date; please call or come by the shop if you have any questions.
July
Knitting Entrelac Socks
June 27, July 18 and 25 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $60
Yarn and pattern provided | Needles not provided
Intro to Cables and Twisted Stitches
July 2 and 9 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 |$50
Intro to Knitting Hats
July 6, 13, and 20 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $80
Intro to Lace Knitting
July 8, 15, 22, and 29 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $110
Intro to Knitting
July 11, 18, 25, and August 1 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $100
2009 Afghan: The July Square
July 11 (Saturday)| 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Knitting vs. Crochet: An Introduction to Both
July 16 and 23 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $55
Spinning Workshop – Drafting
July 17 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Intro to Needlefelting
July 27 and August 3 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $65
Crocheted Flowers
July 30 and August 6 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $85
Introduction to Spinning
July 31, August 7, 14, and 21 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $125
August
2009 Afghan: The August Square
August 1 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Introduction to Spinning on a Drop Spindle
August 5 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Blending Fibers with Hand and Drum Carders
August 8 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $40
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Introduction to Cables (Knit a Washcloth)
August 8 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $30
Knitting Lace Socks
August 8, 15, and 22 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $75
Intro to Knitting Socks on DPNs
August 10, 17, and 24 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $75
Beaded Lace Knitting: Harbour Lights Shawl
August 12, 19, 26, and September 2 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $125
Knitting vs. Crochet: An Introduction to Both
August 13 and 20 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $55
Intro to Knitting
August 15, 22, 29, and September 5 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $100
Knitted Flowers
August 27 and September 3 (Thursday) | 6:00-8:00 | $85
Spinning workshop: Spinning and Plying Colors
August 28 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $30
Students should bring their own wheel or drop spindle
Knitting Fair Isle Socks
August 25, September 12, and 19 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 |$60
Yarn provided | Needles not provided
Introduction to Knitting Hats
August 31, September 7 and 14 (Monday) | 6:00-8:00 | $80
September
Sweater Workshop
September 4, 11, and 25 (Friday) | 6:00-8:00 | $75
2009 Afghan: The September Square
September 5 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $15 (no materials)/$30 (materials provided)
Intro to Knitting
September 9, 16, 23, and 30 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $100
Reading Charts; Reading Knitting
September 12, 19, and 26 (Saturday) | 10:30-1:30 | $75
Introduction to Needlefelting
September 21 and 28 (Wednesday) | 6:00-8:00 | $65
Introduction to Cables (Knit a Washcloth)
September 26 (Saturday) | 2:00-5:00 | $30
Detailed information for each class will be posted closer to the class date; please call or come by the shop if you have any questions.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Class: Knitting Lace Socks
June 13, 20, and 27 (Saturdays) | 2:00-5:00 | $75 $50 | Materials Included
Due to some unexpected scheduling events, we are dropping this to a $50, 2-week class. The first class will be on Saturday June 13th (we'll do the cuff and get you started on the lace pattern) and the second class will be on June 20th (we'll do the heel flap, turn the heel, and get you started on gusset decreases). Should you get stuck on your toe-closing, we are all experienced sock knitters here at the shop and you can stop by for help any time.
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 class is also for those of us who love Lorna's Laces. Pheasant Run (Ravel it!) is designed by Wildhorse Farms Designs using Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock yarn, and you'll be able to choose from any of our in-stock colorways to make your socks.
This is not a good class for a first-time sock knitter; 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).
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. 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.
Due to some unexpected scheduling events, we are dropping this to a $50, 2-week class. The first class will be on Saturday June 13th (we'll do the cuff and get you started on the lace pattern) and the second class will be on June 20th (we'll do the heel flap, turn the heel, and get you started on gusset decreases). Should you get stuck on your toe-closing, we are all experienced sock knitters here at the shop and you can stop by for help any time.
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 class is also for those of us who love Lorna's Laces. Pheasant Run (Ravel it!) is designed by Wildhorse Farms Designs using Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock yarn, and you'll be able to choose from any of our in-stock colorways to make your socks.
This is not a good class for a first-time sock knitter; 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).
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. 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.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Introducing... Kromski!
In addition to the Louet and Ashford wheels and supplies that we already carry, we can now also get you anything in the Kromski family that you want! And for those of you (like me) who already have Kromski wheels (that's my five-year-old lighter colored one on the right, there) we can also get "extras"... neeed a Lazy Kate? Nostepinne? Jumbo flyer? Extra bobbins? Niddy-noddy? Just give us a shout, we'd be happy to order anything we don't currently have in stock!
Friday, June 5, 2009
As if I needed an excuse...
As if I ever needed an excuse to cast on another pair of socks, here are three more reasons...
1. Lorna's Laces is doing a Knit-Along (here is a post on their blog about this month's pattern; here is the Ravelry group).
2. The KAL is for a pair of socks.
3. The sock pattern takes ONE skein of Shepherd Sock.
The fact that I have like eleven other things on the needles is NOT A PROBLEM. Because these socks are cute. And socks. And they take one skein. Must... cast on... today...!
Thursday, June 4, 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!
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!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
It's as American as Baseball!
Hanks is proud to say that we're one of many shops in the Gainesville and Jacksonville areas working together to help plan (...drumroll please...) Stitch 'n' Pitch at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville!
Sunday, June 7th at 3:05 PM, the Jacksonville Suns will be taking on the Carolina Mudcats, and you know you want to be there. Cheer on the Suns as you crochet or knit (or embroider... or cross-stitch...) and show other fans that your love of baseball is almost as much as your love for the fiber and needle arts. Did we mention that goody-bags are available for crafters while supplies last? Friends and family are of course welcome too!
You can get tickets (only $9 each) and meal tickets ($10 each, redeemable for a large sandwich, large beverage, and a snack) by calling Meghan Clark at 904-358-2846.
Sunday, June 7th at 3:05 PM, the Jacksonville Suns will be taking on the Carolina Mudcats, and you know you want to be there. Cheer on the Suns as you crochet or knit (or embroider... or cross-stitch...) and show other fans that your love of baseball is almost as much as your love for the fiber and needle arts. Did we mention that goody-bags are available for crafters while supplies last? Friends and family are of course welcome too!
You can get tickets (only $9 each) and meal tickets ($10 each, redeemable for a large sandwich, large beverage, and a snack) by calling Meghan Clark at 904-358-2846.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Class: 2009 Afghan - The June Square
June 6 (Saturday) 2:00-5:00 | $15 (materials not included)/$30 (materials included)
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.
The June Square is a simple slipped stitch pattern designed to either use up those little scraps from earlier squares, or to feature a self-striping yarn. Anyone familiar with casting on, the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and binding off can do this square.
During the class we will get you started on the June 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.
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. 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.
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.
The June Square is a simple slipped stitch pattern designed to either use up those little scraps from earlier squares, or to feature a self-striping yarn. Anyone familiar with casting on, the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and binding off can do this square.
During the class we will get you started on the June 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.
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. 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, June 1, 2009
2009: The Year of the Afghan (June)
The June square! As you know already, while we will be using yarn from our shop to make each square, the patterns will be written for any worsted weight yarn that gets approximately 4.5 stitches/inch on a US 8. So feel free to substitute anything you have in your stash! At the end of the year you will have twelve squares (more, if you do some of them twice) and while the squares will be interesting enough to keep even advanced knitters interested, it would also be a good project for the new or intermediate knitter who is interested in learning some new skills throughout the year. The squares are designed to get increasingly more challenging and exciting as the year goes on, but this month we've slipped in one that is easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy. The June Square is nothing but knits, purls, and slipped stitches. This is going to be a great one for using up scraps of yarn from previous squares (if you've been using different colors) or for showing off some variegated colorways. I like this pattern so much I've already made two, will be making a third this month, and can see myself coming back to it later in the year when I have more bits of other colorways to work through.
The June pattern is available here, and you can check it out on Ravelry here.
Class: Introduction to Knitting
June 4, 11, 18, and 25 (Thursdays) | 6:00-8:00 | $100 | Materials Included
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.
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. 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.
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.
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. 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.
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