New Classes and Some New Products

Things I ordered at the show are starting to drift in.  I got some great patterns from Knitting at Knoon.  This is one of the knitted toys.  There are also 2 others.  But I just love the Blue Footed Booby.   This would be so cute knit in some of the pretty colors of Cash Vero.  Dream in Color Groovy should be arriving this week.  It's superwash chunky weight wool.  Fabulous colors.  And some mohair silk, which rumor has it is the hottest thing yet!  Figuratively, of course--  it's very light and would make a nice summer shrug or a great transition piece.

We are starting the next round of classes in a week.  First up is Top Down Knits.  In this 4 week class you will learn to construct a raglan sweater all in one piece.  No finishing!  If you have taken a beginner knitting class you have all the necessary skills to take this class.  You will be making a baby-sized raglan sleeve sweater.  The sample is at the store if you'd like to see it.  I made a cardigan but you will have a choice of a pullover too.  From this class you will learn to make sweaters that fit you!  No more disappointing finished objects that sit dejectedly on your shelf.  The class is $85 and does not include supplies.  I will give you the supply list when you sign up.  Pattern is included.  Class begins July 8th at 6:30 PM.

Next is Crochet Beyond the Chain:  Granny Squares, Medallions and Reading Stitch Diagrams

No description necessary, right?  $65 includes handouts but no other materials.  I will give you a list of supplies when you sign up.  Class begins on Saturday, July 10th at 10AM. 

We may close early on Saturday this week since it's the holiday weekend.  Please call before you stop by.  773.244.1646. We will definitely be closed on Sunday and Monday.  Have wonderful 4th!

You Know You Own a Yarn Shop When...

it's the Summer solstice, it's 90+ degrees outside, the humidity is 99.9% and all you can think about is new yarn and patterns.  TNNA was a riot of color, patterns, yarn and new products.   Over the next couple of months you'll see new products from Lantern Moon-- beautiful needle cases and accessories as well as a select few needles and crochet hooks made as only they do in beautiful woods and packaged in their own unique way.

We are getting Dream in Color, Lorna's Laces and Jade Sapphire Cashmere along with patterns to support these beautiful fibers.  The independent designers are creating wonderful garments; sweaters, shawls, jackets and accessories like I've not seen before.  Some of the designers to watch for are: Ysolda Teague, Stephen West, Skif and Cocoknits.

The other exciting thing is Stitch Cooperative, a group of independent designers whose patterns are available through this blog.  I've put a link to them on the side over there.  I've barely begun to explore the wealth of patterns on this site.  It's got great search capability and they are updating it regularly.  Keep an eye out for a special offer with their patterns and yarn from Knit 1!

In the meantime, just a word of warning.  When I got to the shop last night there was no phone or Internet service.  I called AT&T who promised, ever so reassuringly, that they would promptly (?) restore service by 6PM on FRIDAY!!!!  REALLY?????  So, if you need to reach me email me or call and leave a message and I'll check frequently and get back to you.  Uggghhhh.

Road Trip

We leave tomorrow to drive to Columbus, Ohio for TNNA, the big industry trade fair.  Based on my email from the last couple of weeks, everybody will be there.  It's a chance for me to see all the new yarns, accessories, trends and the designers who create all those wonderful sweaters we covet come fall.  It's a fantastic opportunity and I'm quite excited!  It's also the time to see vendors and buy some unique and wonderful items. 

Stacey will be in the store regular hours on Friday and Sunday so there will be class; and Amy will be there Saturday.  I will be home in time (or close to) Monday to open at 1PM.

See you next week with all the news!

Beginning Knitting and Socks

We still have space in two of our Beginner classes:  Saturday Morning beginning June 12th at 10AM and Monday night class beginning next Monday June 14th at 6:30PM.  In four sessions learn to cast on, knit, purl, bind off, basic shaping for making a garment and you'll begin a project.  $125 includes your supplies. 

IMHO, the best summer project: Socks!  Portable, great for the beach, Ravinia, Millenium Park, car rides (when you're not driving), affordable. What's not to like???  And to enable you-- Sock class!!!!  Starts this Thursday evening at 6:30.  $65 buys you a summer of knitting fun and the holidays will be here before you know it and you won't want to be knitting that gift at the last minute!  We have some great sock yarn...

Call the shop 773.244.1646 or email info@knit1chgo.com to register.  All students receive 10% off yarn purchases.

SpinSpanSpun Trunk Show

Hope to see everyone Friday night, June 4th from 6 - 8.  Sample raw foods and buy the beautiful handspun yarn of SpinSpanSpun. 

Deadwax Records next door, will be offering 20% discount on all his merch.

Check out Trish Woodson's beautiful containers!