Katonah Yarn

Guest Post From Across the Pond

2012-01-26T11:27:00.000-05:00

Click on this link to read about a woman who crochets everything. Everything. There are pictures.

Knitting with Floss: Olek is back!: As if she ever went away! If you're an avid reader of knittingwithfloss (which none of you are), then you may remember the last time I ref...

Malibrigo Sock

2012-01-24T23:34:00.000-05:00

The new workshops just went up for the months of February and March.

I'm thinking that learning how to knit socks from the toe up makes an awful lot of sense given that I've got a pair of socks with a toe undone for more than two years.

And in a shade of this new Malibrigo sock yarn......

Jennifer's First Japanese Sweater

2012-01-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

Jennifer took Gayle Roehm's Understanding Japanese Knitting Patterns at Stitches East in the Fall and got started on this sweater as soon as she got back from the weekend.

Because she's Jennifer she finished it very shortly thereafter.

I'm very excited that Jennifer now shares my great admiration for Japanese patterns because ever since Lucy introduced me to crochet patterns for flowers and other ornamental projects, I've been determined to master them.

I've done lots of experimenting on my own, followed lots of leads on the internet and enlisted the help of a Japanese neighbor whose dog plays with mine.

Have you knit or crocheted something using a Japanese pattern? We would love to see it and hear about your experience with the pattern. Please join us on Facebook and share what you're made.

Freia Fine Handpaints - Ombré Worsted

2012-01-12T23:35:00.000-05:00

I love being in the shop after the shelves have been restocked and the yarn's neatly arranged. This ombre looks specially luscious with waves of color within each skein placed in piles which in turn create waves of color.

Here's the Triangle Entrelac Shawl illustrating the compilation of colors within each skein.

Jennifer's Babette Blanket

2012-01-09T23:37:00.000-05:00

Kathy Merrick's Babette Blanket pattern is one of those projects on most of our To Do lists.

As soon as your eyes settle on one, you begin to feel that all is right and warm and balanced.

Somehow the combination of 17 colors and several different sized squares results in a whole that feels anything but chaotic.

Artyarns Supermerino in Stonewashed Colors

2012-01-07T23:33:00.000-05:00

The same soft beauty of Supermerino in even more intense and saturated colors.

Come in and see them for yourself.

I've already got quite a bit on my needles but I'm definitely going to make a hat out of one of these right away.

What color should I use?

Sky Scarf Kits

2012-01-07T00:04:00.001-05:00

We've had increased interest in our Sky Scarf kit. Here are three packed and ready to go.

Can't wait to see the results. The orders came from near and far so the skies will no doubt be different.

I'm still thinking about a kit for a baby blanket based on Lea's concept of recording the passage of a significant time in one's life in knitted (or crocheted) fabric.

Come on into the shop and we'll be happy to help you figure out a baby blanket project.

You could do nine squares, with each square recording a month of skies or knit nine panels (scarves) along the same line. I think granny squares would also work nicely as a means of combining the different colors of sky while also allowing each color to stand out.

The possibilities for expression of this concept, as evident in all the examples sent to Lea here, are endless.

Dogs Have LYS's Too

2012-01-06T07:52:00.001-05:00

And here we have Missy in her Feather and Fan. She came in to wish Peanut a Happy New Year but forgot that Peanut doesn't come in on Mondays.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T09:37:00.004-05:00

I forgot to post these on Christmas, but aren't Joy and Love (and doesn't the Angel resemble a bell - for Ringing In the New Year) all appropriate sentiments for any day of the year.

Jennifer knit these ornaments and I think we should have a workshop nice and early "next" year so that we'll all be able to give them as gifts in December 2012 which is just around the corner.

Happy New Year! Everyone at Katonah Yarn looks forward to knitting and crocheting with you in 2012.

Best wishes for a year of health and good things. -Liz

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T13:40:00.002-05:00

A big thank you to everyone who donated hats for today's Christmas Dinner at St. Mary's Church. Because of you, Katonah Yarn was able to contribute 380 hand knit hats to be given out today.

Annie's Quick Knit Cowl

2011-12-16T20:38:00.003-05:00

Here's the cowl that Annie knit up last weekend using one skein of Plymouth Yarn's Baby Alpaca Grande Hand Dye. It's already getting raves and the one above is now in the possession of the person who modeled it for the picture. I'm sure if there's anyone left on your list in need of a gift, they would want one too. You can find the pattern below.

Annie's Quick Knit Cowl

Yarn: 1 Skein Plymouth Yarn Baby Alpaca Grande Hand Dye

Needle: Size 17 straight

The cowl is knit in stockinette stitch, double wrapping every stitch, every row.

Cast on 28 stitches.

Knit all rows double wrapped stockinette until most of yarn is used up.

You can finish by either binding off and sewing the two edges together (wrong sides facing) or doing a three needle bind off. Weave in ends and put over your head and admire.

Knitted Gifts and the Gift of Knitting

2011-12-08T07:08:00.000-05:00

A hand knit gift is both functional and full of love. This is the time of year when we're all looking for a scarf, hat or glove pattern that's a little different than the one we used last year. This year's it's the slouch hat, the scarf, and fingerless gloves or mitts.

While we may know how relaxing and restorative knitting is for the soul, there are those who don't or those who don't know how to knit. Martha Stewart recommends sharing this tonic with people we care about by giving them the gift of learning how to knit.

And for those of you who know what you want and want your loved ones to know too, there's the Katonah Yarn wish list. Let us know what you would like and we'll keep the list so that when your friends and family come in, call or email, we'll able to tell them what you want.

How To Knit and Purl

2011-12-03T22:33:00.001-05:00

When Jennifer was approached by someone to participate in a how to video for about.com she didn't think twice about saying yes. One of the reasons she opened Katonah Yarn was to share with others a craft that has brought her immense personal satisfaction. This video gives her an opportunity to teach the basics to a wider audience.

With knitting and purling under your belt, you can knit just about anything.

Double Knitting

2011-11-28T22:08:00.001-05:00

Peggy did a bit of show and tell this morning and stopped us all in mid purl.

What you see above is two sides of the same blanket. Besides being awe inspiring and mind boggling and impressive, it's amazingly squishy and cozy and when you touch it you want to surround yourself in it immediately.

She said that she would love to teach a workshop on how to knit this.

I've been meaning to have a go at the Paul Klee scarf designed by Susan M. so I'm taking Peggy's blanket as a sign that I better get the scarf mastered so I can then do what must be a more complicated bit of double knitting for the blanket.

Thank YOU

2011-11-23T16:32:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and the store will be closed for the day. One of the traditions in our family is to go around the table and say what it is that we're thankful for. It's not a terribly original one I know but it certainly is a good time to pause and take stock of all that we have and how lucky we are.

It's also a good time to think of others less fortunate and what we can do to help.

MaryAnne C. walked in the door recently with 36 hats to be distributed at St. Mary's Christmas dinner for the homeless. It's a pet project of the store's and we've been hoping to surpass our contribution from last year. Please help us help others. If you're looking for a pattern you can find a few here.

A very heartfelt thank you to all who have contributed so far! -Liz

Crocheting a Flower

2011-11-11T12:22:00.000-05:00

Not too long ago Lucy, from England, blogged about a shawl someone else, from France, blogged about after following a Japanese designer's pattern. For a very short period of time, the French blogger had posted the Japanese woman's pattern on-line in a language other than Japanese. By the time I and most everyone else got a hold of the absolute need to make the beautiful flower shawl/scarf/coaster, the translated instructions had been taken down. I looked at many different crochet flower patterns and I looked at Lucy's closeup photos of her finished product and I made up a few. And then I went on to crocheting other things that I absolutely HAD to be crocheting.

Last Monday a woman walked into the shop and inquired if there was anyone who could write up a pattern for the very same flower. I had never written down a pattern but I sat down with her and she wrote down a pattern as I talked her through the flower we looked at on Lucy's blog. What was so enjoyable about meeting her was that she wanted to crochet this shawl with as much passion as I had when I was on the search.

This is what mine looks like.

I have some ideas about how to open it up a little more.

Meanwhile, I'm going to have someone translate the Japanese pattern for me. - Liz

New Noro On The Shelves

2011-11-10T09:44:00.001-05:00

There are many new Noro yarns in the shop. Above is Noro Sock in some come knit me color combinations. I'm having trouble deciding which one to put on my needles but as soon as I do, I'll report back here with photos!

The Silk Garden shipment that was supposed to be here before the Mitered Crosses workshop got here the day after. There are some truly beautiful color combinations here too.

Check back for photos of more Noro yarns!

Ombré

2011-11-05T11:43:00.001-04:00

Jennifer was very excited when she saw the Kinnickinnic blanket at Stitches East last year. She loved how the yarn knit up from light to dark creating a natural shading and then how the pattern created another rippling effect.

She promptly ordered everything needed to knit a few up.

Come on in and see it for yourself!

We're Open

2011-10-31T10:21:00.000-04:00

The store is open!

Come in and knit with us.

Store Closed, Power Out

2011-10-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

The sun is out and so is the power.

Stay safe and warm.

Hope to see you soon.

Power's Out In The Store

2011-10-29T17:04:00.000-04:00

Hope you are all staying warm and safe.

We'll have a message on the phone Sunday to let you know if we're open.

I just started knitting another slouchy hat in Lorna's Laces. What are you working on this weekend?

Write a comment and let us know. - Liz

Every Day I'm Ripple'N

2011-10-27T14:40:00.001-04:00

What's so addictive about crocheting or knitting a blanket that's more than one color is that at any moment you are going to get to the part where you change colors. Where you get to see progress, the pattern, your idea become animate.

I've been trying to ripple a little every day and I hope that you have too. Please send some pictures along. Don't let concern about the quality of the picture stop you. Phones today allow for pretty good shots.

For most of us who enter yarn stores it's not just about the main course, it's about the sides - the conversation, the opportunity to share ideas, consider options that would never have occurred to us, Form friendships. So it's not about perfection. Imperfection is part of handmade. Part of the beauty of us.

It's true that I've been mitering too.

And knitting a slouch hat for a store kit pattern.

It's exciting to be creating things.

Something Kay Gardiner said the other night made me want to shout out YES.

She was talking about how much knitting (and blanket making) has allowed her to express her creative self. How she has all sorts of responses to things that she cannot represent through any other medium. Now those were not her exact words, but I'm pretty sure I'm getting the gist of what she was saying.

She was saying that she's a person who has color and shape and texture in her soul and it needed an out. That she looks at things and thinks about things and listens to things and wants to say something visual in response. Something that involves colors and lines. And knitting is how she gets to do it. (I think there may be a little bit of staging/photography in there too when I think about that Mitered Crosses blanket on the dog in the park photo but that's just me.)

And here's the sky today in Westchester. Have to go with the Tosh Light Antler and Silver Fox to express IT with yarn.

Great day to get some knit'N done!

Kay Gardiner in the House

2011-10-25T23:09:00.002-04:00

What a thrill to have the famous Mitered Crosses blanket in the shop. And with it, Kay Gardiner, the woman who made it. Peanut's pretty happy with it too. He's making sure that Olive can't stop thinking of him.

It was a full house. All our tables in the main room. Everything nice and cozy. A little wine. But who has time to eat or drink. Does it look like anyone?

Please send photos of your mitered crosses blankets in progress and once completed to info@katonahyarn.com.

"My Soul Is In The Sky"*

2011-10-20T09:46:00.000-04:00

The Madelinetosh shipment came in, and with it the two colors we were missing for our most popular Sky Scarf Kit.

I can't wait to get started on a new store sample!

I couldn't choose one picture from the ones I took this morning on my way up to the shop.

I drove through backroads rather than getting directly on the highway, passing what is still a cattle grazing field. I have found the sky something to privately exclaim over every time I drive which is often.

The clouds are fuller and more active than they were this summer.

*Shakespeare

2011-10-19T11:48:00.000-04:00

The ripple is growing. Felicia suggested adding some black to give it the Missoni look I was going for. I think it was a good call. Don't you? Liz

Peanut's Tweed Coat

2011-10-18T11:39:00.001-04:00

Here's Peanut in his new coat made from a pattern in Dogs in Knits by Judith L. Swartz.

Jennifer used Debbie Bliss's Luxury Tweed.

Braided Cable Headband

2011-10-17T12:56:00.000-04:00

Dani designed this headband for the Holiday Gift club using Artyarns Cashmere 5.

Here's the pattern if you would like to knit one up for yourself or someone special.

Try adding one of Artyarns glitter yarns for a little bit of sparkle.

Yarn: 1 skein of Artyarns Cashmere 5-ply (102 yds)
Gauge: 5sts/1” on a #7 needle, but, for once, itʼs not all that important

Abbreviations: C12F – slip 6sts onto cable needle, hold in front, k6, then knit the 6sts on cable needleC12B – slip 6sts onto cable needle, hold in back, k6, then knit the 6sts on cable needle Wyif – with yarn in front

3-Needle Bind Off – Place sts on two #7 needles. With right sides together and using a third #7 needle, knit the first two sts together (a st from the front needle and a st from the back needle). Repeat once more. Pass the first st over the second; continue in this manner until all sts are bound off.
Pattern:Using a provisional cast on (and waste yarn), cast on 22sts
Row 1 (RS): Using cashmere, knit to end
Row 2 (and all WS rows): Sl1 purlwise, k1, p to last 2 sts, k1, p1
Row 3: Sl1 knitwise, k to end
Row 5: Rep. row 3
Row 7: Sl1 knitwise wyif, k1, C12F, k to end
Row 9: Rep. row 3
Row 11: Rep. row 3
Row 13: Rep. row 3
Row 15: Rep. row 3
Row 17: Sl1 knitwise wyif, k7, C12B, k to end
Row 19: Rep. row 3
Row 21: Rep. row 3
Row 23: Rep. row 3
Row 25: Rep. row 3
Repeat rows 2-25 9x or until it reaches the desired length, but do not bind off OR break yarn!

Remove provisional cast-on, placing live sts on needle. Use Kitchener stitch to graft together... if terribly allergic to/fearful of Kitchener st, you can use the 3-needle bind-off method, but this will produce a ridge on the WS.For good instructions on how to do the Kitchener stitch, check out: http://www.knitty.com/ ISSUEsummer04/FEATtheresasum04.html

Present to someone special with pride!

2011-10-15T12:40:00.000-04:00

Here's the store's ripple.

I did a row of white in slipstitch because I wanted just a hint of it.
Liz

Ripple Along With Us

2011-10-12T13:44:00.000-04:00

How exciting to see shelves filled with Simplicity in the shop! It's not often that you're going to hear exclamations about a blend, but this Merino, Acrylic, and yes Nylon, blend comes in a zillion shades of beautiful and knits up soft and extremely pleasing to the eye.

And then Lucy over at Attic24 presented all her readers with an invitation to crochet a ripple blanket with her. Lucy doesn't charge for her patterns but it's always nice to make a donation on her site. Just keep in mind that she usually writes her patterns using British crochet terms so you have to translate them to our crochet terms. A treble crochet is a double, a double is a single...

Lucy talks about how she chooses her colors over on her blog. I'm always attracted to all the bright and stand out stripes that she puts together, but found my eyes returning again and again to the top shelf's earthy palette. I could imagine being blanketed by ripples of calm.

I'll be rippling by tonight and invite you to do the same. We've got lots of great choices for a ripple blanket. If you need help figuring out how much yarn you need or what size hook to use, just email me at liz@katonahyarn.com.

Look forward to hearing from you. Liz.

Kay Gardiner Workshop

2011-10-05T10:40:00.000-04:00

If you have ever read the blog masondixonknitting or the subsequent book series you know that Kay Gardiner and Ann Shayne have managed to capture the intimacy of the knitting circle virtually. You feel like you're part of a really close family. You are happy when they are happy and sad when they are sad. And when they produce something breathtakingly beautiful like the Mitered Crosses Blanket above, you feel proud. And you want to make one too.

So we are very excited that Kay is coming up county on October 25th (6-8 PM) to lead a workshop on the Mitered Crosses Blanket pattern. And if you are coming up from the city too, you're welcome to join Kay on the train. Just let us know and we'll give you the details.

You can expect to make new friends, have some good laughs, complete the first cross and begin the logcabin frame.

Materials needed: Yarnfor the cross and frame and knitting needles. At the end of the workshop you'll get a coupon for 10% off your purchase of supplies for your Mitered Crosses Blanket.

The $40.00 fee includes a copy ofthe pattern as well as a copy of one of the Mason Dixon Knitting books. Pre-registration is required for thisworkshop as space is limited.Please call the shop at 914-977-3145, email liz@katonahyarn.com or register right here.

Margaret's Meadowbrook

2011-09-30T14:35:00.000-04:00

Margaret knit Stephen West's Meadowbrook scarf for her son. She hasn't been able to give it to him yet because it's become a very popular sample here in the shop.

It's out of West Knits Book One and made with Madelinetosh DK.

2011-09-29T13:51:00.001-04:00

Here's a picture from what's going to be a tutorial for the crocheted pillow we were all mad about over the summer. I just finished making one to sit on Cousin B's new sofa but I thought as a work in progress it offered a bit of floral sunshine on this rainy day.

2011-09-27T23:27:00.004-04:00

Just a little eye candy to boost your mood.

Stimulate some knitterly imaginings.

Artyarns Cashmere 5 comes in a seemingly endless number of colors.

Come on in and check them out.

There just might be one you've never seen before.

Sweater Knitting Warm Up

2011-09-25T23:26:00.000-04:00

Iris Schrier brought this beauty up with her during the beginning of Hurricane Irene. Fortunately she left it at the store. It's a pattern from the Winter 2010/11 Vogue Knitting done up in Artyarns Ultrabulky and in addition to looking good on everyone it feels supper cozy which is what everybody is going to want to be feeling pretty soon.

The yarn is a pleasure to work with, it's washable and because it's Ultrabulky it's going to knit up fast enough to get started on your next, more demanding sweater, very soon.

Sky Scarf Kits Available On-Line

2011-09-19T10:08:00.000-04:00

Even people who don't knit are touched by the concept of Lea Redmond's Sky Scarf. Every day for a year, or some significant and defined amount of time, knit two rows of garter stitch to represent the sky. At the end of whatever time period you have chosen you will have a knitted record in variations of gray, white and blue.

You can't help but notice the touches of brightness created by the lines of blue from those days of nearly cloudless skies. A reminder that along with the gray there is always cheer.

Katonah Yarn is thrilled to introduce a selection of 3 Sky Scarf kits with more Sky themed kits in the works. Each kit includes everything you need to knit your own Sky Scarf - Lea's beautifully illustrated instructions, 5 skeins of yarn in the appropriate shades of grey, white and blue (choose from Artyarns one-ply cashmere, Madelinetosh Merino Light and Isager's Spinni), and a pair of size 3 short wooden needles.

You can order your Sky Scarf Kit here or below. And make sure to check out Lea's website to learn about her other funky cool ideas.

Tyler's Wonderful Wallaby

2011-09-14T21:31:00.003-04:00

Cousin B's nephew looks mighty cozy in his Wallaby.

How's yours coming?

2011-09-13T10:21:00.002-04:00

Come on in to check out the 60 Quick Baby Knits trunk show.

All the patterns in this book are winners and we've got a great selection of knit samples in the shop right now!

It's That Scarf Again

2011-09-11T23:08:00.001-04:00

Here's a favorite scarf pattern of ours. It's simple, quick and looks great. It's from Jared Flood, and as he says himself, there are endless variations.

Using two skeins, or pulling from both ends of one skein, of self-striping yarn, in this case Noro Kuryon, you knit a simple rib over an odd number of stitches, changing colors, or yarns, every two rows.

The two colorways or ends allow for a more distinct striping effect. And the rib creates a wonderful cushiony feel.

A Blanket For Your Fall

2011-09-06T08:13:00.003-04:00

Was that fall at our doors this morning? The humidity of the weekend replaced by a bit of snap in the air?

Perfect timing since I feel that I need to make one of these blankets.

If you never made it in for the Noro Trunk Show this was part of it.

I love when Noro's self-striping is used for more complex purposes than row after row of stripes. I think that's when it really shines. -Liz

-Liz

A One Skein Scarf

2011-09-02T08:03:00.001-04:00

Pick out one skein of your favorite Brown Sheep Worsted color.

Cast on 28 stitches.

Row 1: *Purl 1, Knit 2* Purl 1

Row 2: Knit 1 *Purl 2, Knit 1*

Continue until skein is gone or scarf is as long as your want.

Bind off loosely.

Enjoy.

Repeat.

Another Beautiful Day to Knit - And The Shop Is Open

2011-09-01T09:57:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago we were visited by some energetic knitters. Although not regulars to the shop they were immediately at home and were willing to share their knitting tales and tails.
This one is from one skein of Zauberball sock yarn using this pattern from Ravelry.

Whale Watching

2011-08-31T22:17:00.002-04:00

Renee S., aged 6, knitting while the rest of her family watches for whales off of Cape Cod.

Wednesday August 31

2011-08-31T11:35:00.000-04:00

We are open again without electricity.

Once again cash and checks appreciated.

Once again we are happy to see you.

60 Quick Baby Knits Trunk Show is in the shop!

Come in and knit with us!

Tuesday, August 30

2011-08-30T09:41:00.001-04:00

We'll be open today from 10 to about 7 tonight. We still do not have electricity and are dependent on natural light so if the clouds swoop in we may have to close earlier. Cash and checks are greatly appreciated.
Hope you're doing okay in the aftermath of the storm.
Come on in and knit with us!

We Are Open!

2011-08-29T10:06:00.002-04:00

The storm knocked out our power but it's a beautiful day and Felicia and Barbara are at the store from 11-4 today. So come on in and knit with them!

Wondering About the Wallaby

2011-08-24T10:59:00.005-04:00

The Wonderful Wallably.

Coming to your needles soon.

If it's not already there.

The pattern is written for all sizes.

It's for knitters beginner to advanced.

It's comfortable.

It's cozy.

It looks great.

And there's a place for your hands if your arms get tired.

We've had some questions about this simple sweater. And by we I mean WE. I myself spent two hours picking up the stitches for the pouch. Had I only read the instructions cover to cover. Like you're supposed to. Like we tell all our customers.

Reading the pattern before beginning is as important as checking your gauge. I became a believer of the gauge swatch years ago after working in two yarn stores. I tell you. I am now a total believer in reading the pattern before beginning to cast on or chain a stitch.

Here's what I learned about picking up stitches for the pouch. (Turns out Felicia had figured this trick out for herself. Felicia's knit so many Wallaby's we've lost count.)

Thread scrap yarn through the second knit row (after the ribbing) immediately after knitting it OR knit a contrasting thread along with yarn when knitting the second row (to be cut out later). This way you don't have to guess which stitch your poking your needle through to pick up the next stitch.

If you get confused when instructed to increase stitches evenly across a row, here's a link that does the calculation for you.

What advice would you like to share with Wallaby knitters?

You can see more Wallaby's here and here.

Jennifer Spins Yarn, Knits Hat

2011-08-15T15:21:00.001-04:00

Jennifer learned how to spin yarn and does so whenever she can. Her very first product is at home among the jewels at Pretty Funny in Tarrytown where we've been holding some of our off site classes.

Her second ball of yarn resulted in this hat.

Lucy's Flower Pillow and Peanut

2011-08-15T12:37:00.005-04:00

There was lots of laughter at the Crochet A Flower workshop last Wednesday night. Between the conversation from Mary's class, and the show and tell of all the projects they have completed (they're an extremely impressive group of practically new knitters), and our group (learning the hard way that multiples of five means that you if you don't have multiples of five you will not have enough stitches to complete the pattern) you wouldn't have thought that we were concentrating on wrapping yarn and pulling it through one, two or three loops.
Those of you who last crocheted the LAST time granny square ponchos were all the rage need not fear that you won't remember a thing. It all DOES come back to you.
I made this pillow after modifying a pattern from Attic24 for which Lucy had written a comprehensive tutorial complete with her comprehensive photo illustrations. I haven't been able to get hold of Lucy but I have made a contribution to her coffee fund for which she has a button on her blog.
I think the pillow makes a perfect backdrop for Peanut who is feeling much better after being bedridden for a few days.

An Illusive Yarn

2011-08-08T16:54:00.000-04:00

I just finished leading a week of garden camp for a group of children aged 5-8. It involved harvesting from an herb and vegetable garden, using the harvest to make food and then eating it.

My 16 year old thought it necessary to remind me not to become a five year old myself when dealing with one.

For example, if a child who I knew was not allergic to anything said "I'm allergic," she felt I should not say "No you're not. I know for a fact that you are not because I had your parents fill out a form before camp started specifically asking if you were allergic to anything. And you're not allergic to ANYTHING."

I'm sure there's not one among you who would disagree with my daughter. And to be clear. I'm not saying that I behaved the way used in the above example. It was simply an example of how she felt I should NOT behave.

She wanted to make sure that I behaved like a grownup.

Meanwhile back on the yarn front....

This past Saturday I started emailing and calling every yarn store on the Noro list of retailers and on-line stores carrying Silk Garden. I was determined to find the illusive Silk Garden 269.

This colorway landed on the periphery of my consciousness when Kay Gardiner listed it in her Mitered Cross Pattern. I didn't pay too much attention to it. It was white, a neutral, and discontinued. Oh well. Move on.

I liked the idea of learning mitered knitting and helping Japan at the same time so I pressed the BUY button. I have always enjoyed the way Noro self stripes and liked the idea of making use of that quality in a way that didn't result in simple parallel lines.

As I wrote about here, I happily used Manos silk blend in a green for the solid contrast to the transitioning Noro and received many compliments.

The problem began after I had five squares completed. Suddenly the green became heavy and confining.

I began looking for a way to loosen things up. Maybe I would crochet the blocks together asymetrically with some other color. Maybe I would make a bag using the blocks on the diagonal.

Maybe I would mix other Noro colors in.

After a while I took my five completed squares and put them away.

One day Chris B. walked into the shop with a skein of Silk Garden 269 and one skein of Silk Garden 264 thinking that they might help lighten things up for me.

She did not realize that the 269 was a much sought after item or that it was the color that was used in the original quilt.

I knit up one mitered cross square using the 269.

The picture below tells you what I did next.

I found the 269 after an hour of calling and emailing many yarn stores and online shops. A quilt shop that had a yarn corner found some stuffed in a cubbie and an online store said they had it but I was skeptical.

I had already ordered from the online store when I heard back from the Quilt shop but I was so addicted to the idea of getting the yarn that I thought I might just buy all of it and then have it for some other Mitered Cross junkie.

Then I decided to order the yarn from the Quilt shop, cancel my other order and AFTER my yarn arrived I would let people know where they could find 269.

There was no way I was going to risk giving up my source of Noro Silk Garden color 269 before I had my 8 outstanding skeins in hand.

ABSOLUTELY NO WAY.

Nothing childish about that.

Nu Uh...

Liz

Ribbon Candy Scarf

2011-08-04T19:01:00.004-04:00

Susan M., a regular at our Tuesday night Sit, Knit and unWined, casually took this beauty out of her bag a few weeks ago. She had just come back from Gale Zuckers Photography for Knitter's Workshop and was so excited about her experience that she failed to make a big deal about her impressive creation. She was explaining that she was working through her stash and had created this double knitting project as a way to use up her Kid Silk Haze.

Thankfully she's writing up the pattern and has agreed to share it with all of us here just as soon as she's finished. I know what I'm going to do with all the Kid Silk left from my Log Cabin Scarf. - Liz

Katonah Knit Kits

2011-07-30T13:02:00.000-04:00

We've had great success putting together kits for projects we know that you're interested in. Barbara put together tube scarf kits for Felicia's tube scarf which is still one of our most popular go to scarf patterns. In addition to the Tube Scarf kits which are available with both Cashmere and Supermerino we have Flower Pillow kits in several palates and a crochet hook for the crocheted flower from Attic24 and the Summer Scarf Kit which has everything you need to knit a lacy summer scarf - one skein of Cottonspring, a knitting needle and the pattern all packaged in an attractive little bundle. The Flower kits will be available for the August 10 Flower Crochet workshop Liz is giving at the shop.

Up Up and Away in a Cloud of Cashmere

2011-07-27T11:39:00.001-04:00

When I first saw Lea Redmond’s Sky Scarf project on her website I was instantly attracted to the idea of capturing a year’s worth of sky in a scarf and wrapping it around my neck. For me visual balance is achieved through something other than symmetry and the idea of letting the colors of the sky determine the colors of the next row seemed just right. I also felt that the overall effect of the five colors involved would always be beautiful.

Lea is up to many many things all of which represent an amazingly creative sensibility. In addition to having a business in which she conceives of and sells objects meant to bring the recipient pure joy and delight she shares many of her conceptual ideas with all of us by posting them on her website and relevant community sites; in this case Ravelry.

The Sky Scarf is the first pattern that she is sharing in her Conceptual Knitting Series. She clearly has amazing energy as well, and has a video up to help illustrate the organization of all the balls of yarn needed to represent your sky on any given day. You can find Lea's pattern and the video here.

I felt that the Sky Scarf was a special project, a record of a year in my life, so I decided to use Artyarns single ply cashmere.

Because I'm working on my scarf every day and explaining what I'm doing to customers curious about the many balls of yarn attached to my needles I have ample opportunity to consider all the ways the the scarf could celebrate specific years in the lives of loved ones. So far I've come up with knitting the sky of the first year of a baby's life or of the first year of a marriage.

It requires a certain amount of patience and definitely needs to be kept in one place. But what a reward awaits on day 365. -Liz

GO USA

2011-07-17T11:12:00.003-04:00

Jennifer's David is in Germany making sure we can watch the US Soccer team go for the win. Have a safe trip home David! All of us at Katonah Yarn wish you a safe trip and we can't wait to see you. Peanut too.

Sit, Knit and un-Wined

2011-07-11T17:26:00.005-04:00

SIGN UP NOW!

Thursday, August 25, 7-9 pm

Join other knitters and crocheters for an evening of craft and conversation.

Gather round at W@tercooler, located at 21 N. Broadway (2nd Floor), and be inspired by other's creativity. Enjoy a glass of wine and tasting of cheeses from Mint.

Take a break from home life and drop a stitch or two in W@tercooler's hip lounge area.

Bring your own project or knit a light and lacy summer scarf with Artyarns Cottonspring available in a Katonah Yarn Summer Scarf Kit. (Kit includes 1 skein of yarn, 1 set of wooden number 13 needles, and instructions - the scarf is all garter stitch). There will be a variety of colors available. If you’re new to knitting, we’ll be happy to get you started.

Sponsored by W@tercooler and Katonah Yarn, coordinated by stitching guru Liz Kaplan.

$10.00 fee

RSVP to liz@katonahyarn.com

Special Offerings of the Evening:

Katonah Yarn: 10% off next purchase, Summer Scarf Kit available for purchase $20.00.

Pretty Funny: 10% off next Vintage Jewel purchase

W@tercooler: Drawing for TWO-DAY Pass

Artyarns Cottonspring in the Summer

2011-07-06T13:40:00.004-04:00

Because not knitting in the summer is not an option, finding a yarn that is light in hand and soothing to touch is an occurrence worth noting. Artyarns combination of one-ply cotton twisted with wool makes for some cool summer knitting. We've put together a quick Summer Scarf Kit - one skein of Cottonspring, one set of large wooden needles and all you need to do is pick your color.

Who Says You Have to Knit With It?

2011-07-01T13:43:00.004-04:00

Here's the yarn that came out of the box, went onto the shelves, got taken off the shelves, got put back on the shelves and then taken off them the next day and put in the hold cabinet behind the cabinet. I wasn't sure what exactly I was going to make with them although I thought it might be this. But maybe it should be this. Or maybe the yarn should stay just as it is, neatly spun cylinders of yum. Don't they look fine against my peeling porch floor? It's not like I don't have other things to knit. There's the Dani and Felicia Sweater soon to be available on Ravelry. The store sample of the Katonah Yarn Summer Scarf soon to be available as a kit - the perfect solution for what to knit by the pool - a skein of Artyarns Cottonspring on short wooden needles. A Wallaby in Tosh DK for my daughter because she saw, tried on and enjoyed the luxurious feel of Jennifer's. And creatively crocheting together my Mitered Crosses Squares because I don't like things to be symmetrical in the traditional sense.
There's nothing quite like the anticipation of a long weekend, a covered porch, a chair by the river, a pile of books, and a bag full of yarn. Even if all you do with the yarn is look at it.- Liz

Jennifer Makes Yarn

2011-06-25T08:13:00.001-04:00

Ever since Jennifer got back from TNNA she's been eager to get started spinning. Everyone in the store knew to let her know the second the wheel she ordered arrived with the daily UPS delivery. As you can see from the picture above, the wheel has arrived.

Some Boxes Are More Exciting Than Others

2011-06-24T17:57:00.001-04:00

When I'm the one unpacking the boxes of yarn that UPS brings in around 2:30 most afternoons I am also the one overcome by the NEED to possess a portion of their content. I see color combinations and textures where they do not yet exist. I rarely know how I will use the yarn but I know that I must find a way. Truthfully, I often let that need pass. It is a necessity. I am surrounded by beautiful yarn on a daily basis and would be drowning in it if I took home all that I HAD to possess. As it is, my basement is in constant need of organization due to my having HAD to possess yarn and buttons and fabric in the past. It's not a new story. You've heard it before I'm sure. Perhaps you're even writing a version of it yourself.

Sometimes I have an idea what project might work for the yarn that's fresh out of the box. If a few hours go by, or a day, and I have actually put the yarn on the shelf and taken it off the shelf more than once, I start looking for a pattern. These days I find it easy to pop in the yarn requirements on Ravelry. Twenty-four hours later when I emerge completely raveled, I've found the perfect pattern. For at least ten new projects!

The other day two huge boxes of Madelinetosh arrived in the store. At least eight people came in within two hours of the yarn being labeled. By the next day when it was almost all out on the shelves, one third of the Tosh Merino Light was gone. People we had never seen before came in having somehow sensed that their beloved Tosh was in the area.

Jennifer and I are going to knit this shawl out of the Tosh Light. We have three shelves of Tosh Merino DK in some really luscious colors. They have some nice free patterns, like the Honey Cowl pictured above, on their website. It's shown without a double loop but I can imagine how snuggly it will be looped twice around the neck. Several people, Jennifer included, have knit the Wonderful Wallaby in the DK too. What have you made with Tosh DK? We would love to see it! - Liz

It's Not Just About The Yarn - Part 1

2011-06-17T06:49:00.126-04:00

Customers come into the store every day. Some of them know exactly what they want or have an idea of what they are looking for. Others are just looking, either because they want to start a project, be inspired or are in a new place and have to check out the local yarn store. That's what I do whenever I am anywhere away from home.

Rarely does a customer just walk in and walk out the way you might when you are running into the A&P to buy a half-gallon of milk. It's easy to get caught up in the conversation or in a conversation. Someone will ask what you are knitting and then that person or someone else will be reminded of something like that that someone else knit and that will inevitably lead to some other project that was similar which might lead to a vacation that someone took when they brought that project with them and where they stayed and what travel agent was used. You may even end up sitting down. Discuss the merits of using a travel agent in the age of the Internet. All of a sudden the conversation turns to dinner. You really have to go. You need to pick up a few things at the grocery store. You're not sure what you should make. You are bombarded with suggestions. One person even makes sure that you write down the recipe.

The picture above is of strawberries brought in by Chris B. She went up to Pawling to pick up fresh picked strawberries to make preserves. She thought we might enjoy a taste so she stopped by with a quart on her way home.

The strawberries set off a jumble of thoughts. The metaphors possible between knitting and life are, if not infinite, many. Much more warmth results from the creation of a blanket or a sweater or a hat than provided by the object itself. There is the the warmth that results from someone dropping off fresh picked strawberries just because. It would never have happened if one day Chris B. hadn't needed some yarn. - Liz

A Hug To Take With You

2011-06-17T06:29:00.003-04:00

It's become a tradition in the Ceisler household for Jennifer to knit David a hat when he goes on location and this time was no different. She chose this beauty from twist collective.

Jennifer Has A Thing for A Wheel Named Julia

2011-06-14T17:11:00.000-04:00

There's going to be a quiz.

I thought that a diagram of parts with labels was appropriate for this time of year when teenagers all over the country are studying for, and taking, final exams. The diagram above is of Louet's Julia Spinning Wheel which Jennifer is obsessed with. She is determined to own one before Pam from Louet comes on July 12 to share her spinning wisdom with us all. Jennifer figures she'll be able to give everyone a head start on the joy of spinning. Because who would not love spinning as much as she does? Pam will be bringing some of these magnificent machines with her on the day of her visit and offering them at a discount. - Liz

What's TNNA?

2011-06-13T06:02:00.005-04:00

Exactly.

The TNNA Market in Columbus Ohio is where many yarn shop owners are this weekend and it slips off our tongues when people ask where Jennifer is as though anyone in the yarn world knows what TNNA is. But truthfully I had no idea until I looked it up last night and then I had to look it up again just now to remind myself.

The National NeedleArts Association. It's the trade show for all things related to knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery and sewing. Kind of like the name implies. Kind of like the candy store for people like us!

Jennifer's phone calls and emails have reflected her excitement about all that she has seen and all the people she has met and spoken to. She's ordered an array of new yarns for the shop and then while ordering linen from Louet got into a conversation about spinning, tried out one of their lovely spinning wheels and ended up arranging for Pam from Louet to bring some of those spinning wheels to the shop on July 12th for a combination class demonstration. Save the date and stay tuned for more details. -Liz
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The picture is Spud and Chloe's Seeing Stars Blanket which was on display at TNNA

Granny Stripes Baby Blanket

2011-06-08T06:55:00.015-04:00

Jennifer just finished this Granny Stripes baby blanket in Zara and we couldn't be more excited to share the pictures and source of the pattern with you. We've all been fans of Lucy and her heartwarming, lovely to look at, generous, instructional blog for years. It's been the reason some of us have returned to crocheting.

This particular crochet project is a great one for getting reacquainted with the art because it's rows of double crochet clusters with chains in between. By the time the body of the blanket is finished you're ready for the ever so slightly more complicated picot edging which Lucy is nice enough to give separate instructions for here. Thank you Lucy!
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Lucy just posted that her mother is very ill. We wish her well.

Tosh Sock Is Not Just For Socks

2011-06-01T22:21:00.003-04:00

I'm exited to share this pattern I found on Ravelry because I think this weather is the perfect time to be knitting a simple pattern with something light (in weight), bright (to remind us that it is in fact the season of white clothing and grilling) and lacy so that it's still appropriate to give as a lovingly made gift. I was looking for a pattern that would knit up quick but look complicated and this fits the bill. Every row is knit the same. My scarf in knit in Tosh Sock color Pop Rocks. Thank you Turvid for sharing. - Liz

Jennifer's Rock Island Shawl

2011-06-01T13:08:00.003-04:00

Take a look at The Rock Island Shawl that Jennifer knit with Lorna's Lace's Sock Yarn. You're going to want to click on the picture to see the delicate lacework. It's really something.- Liz

Baby Surprise Jacket

2011-05-23T22:57:00.006-04:00

I first heard of Elizabeth Zimmerman when a friend handed me a book with a picture of a women in a dated looking Icelandic sweater. "You'll never need another pattern if you read this," she said. Really, I thought. I was hoping for some advice on what was wrong with my sleeve in progress. I leafed through the book and it appeared to be filled with full pages of words with the occasional squiggly hand drawn picture of the garment being discussed. This was no ordinary pattern book. I didn't have the patience at the time to read it. My friend Karen saw the Baby Surprise sweater in the store and is a woman of incredible patience. She read the book with the instructions, knit the sweater in a day and declared Elizabeth a genius. Rae recently knit up the EZ Pi shawl in both a sock and worsted weight yarn and I think I am finally ready to try my hand at the Elizabeth Zimmerman approach to knitting. So many famous knitting people swear by it. Including Jennifer who had the second of her two-part Baby Surprise workshop this past Saturday. Participants happily learned how to turn an oddly shaped swatch of garter stitch into an incredible baby sweater. - Liz

Madelinetosh Is In The House!

2011-05-17T19:56:00.006-04:00

At long last the luscious hand-dyed fibers of Madelinetosh have arrived in the shop. Prairie lace, Tosh Dk and Sock are flying out the door. It is not clear if any of the skeins will even make it onto the shelves. Come see for yourselves.

The Kwithu Women’s Cooperative in Mzuzu Malawi

2011-05-16T09:58:00.003-04:00

The Kwithu Women’s Cooperative in Mzuzu Malawi has built a community center with a crafts room for a knitting machine and several sewing machines. The women's goal is to generate enough income to feed around 200 local orphans hot meals three times a week. There is a container heading to Mzuzu Malawi soon and Meredith Brokaw, who has recently returned from canning tomatoes with the inspiring women of the Kwithu Women's Cooperative, has asked Katonah Yarn to serve as a drop off point for yarn donations. She will deliver all yarn collected to the container by June 11.

Knitting Retreat

2011-05-13T20:42:00.003-04:00

Knitting time is anytime!

Take a break from your daily routine and join Katonah Yarn’s supportive and friendly staff for a special weekend created just for you. Get new ideas, advice and assistance all weekend long. Finish those projects you have started or get a fresh start with choosing a new one.

You may also visit the picturesque surrounding towns, take a walk, catch up on sleep or enjoy a massage or facial. Shop for the latest knitting supplies, yarn, books, patterns and more at our very own mini traveling yarn shop.

The retreat is held at the lovely Interlaken Inn of Lakeville Connecticut. It is a resort and country inn located in the beautiful Litchfield Hills of Connecticut. Known as "New England's Country Resort,” it has lots of on-property recreation and expanded spa services.

Single $650/per person
Double $495/per person
Triple $450/per person

All inclusive: two nights lodging in Main Building, six meals, snacks and drinks. Mini workshops offered by our professional teaching staff all weekend.

Each room features queen-size beds with a private bath, a hair dryer, coffee maker, cable TV, iron and ironing board.

A full packet of information will be sent along with your reminder notice in October,2011. A non-refundable deposit of $100.00 holds your space, with the balance due by August 1, 2011.

Brave New Knits

2011-05-05T07:24:00.002-04:00

The Brave New Knits trunk show and book signing was a lot of fun. Julie Turjoman brought a great selection of samples from the book so we got a chance to see how the patterns looked finished and how they fit.
Don't forget that along with our new Monday store hours comes a full set of new classes including Learn How to Knit or Crochet.

Up and Running

2011-05-02T09:52:00.009-04:00

Thank you all so much for your patience as we closed the shop for a day to do inventory and get our new sales system up and running. Everything is counted and almost everything is labeled. The store is open, the new computer is in place and we welcome you to come on in and knit with us!

May classes have started, and for those of you looking for a one or two-session weekend class, check out our list of May workshops.

Develop Great New Skills In One of our Classes

2011-04-12T07:51:00.006-04:00

Elizabeth Zimmerman's Pi Shawl with Rae's own border

We've got some great workshops scheduled for May along with our usual selection of friendly and helpful classes. Jennifer and Rae are highlighting the techniques of Elizabeth Zimmerman and Peggy is demystifying entrelac. So call or come in to sign up. (Soon you'll be able to sign up on-line.)

Come knit with us!

Knit Along with Lorna's Laces

2011-04-08T21:34:00.004-04:00

Our friends over at Lorna's Laces have invited us to participate in their knit-along of Jared Flood's Rock Island shawl. So come on into the shop and pick out a lovely lace weight yarn and get ready to start knitting this beautiful summer shawl. We're going to start on April 15 and will post progress reports and pictures of everyone's work as we go. Jennifer is knitting hers in Lorna's sock yarn using color Grand Street Ink. Please send pictures and let us know what yarn you're using and how your project is going. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Knitting Fever Doubled Your Donations for Japan Relief

2011-04-08T13:04:00.004-04:00

Our customers generosity along with Katonah Yarns contribution, matched by Knitting Fever brought the total Katonah Yarn community contribution to $2140. Although the store has stopped collecting money the efforts to help Japan continue. Check out what the wonderful ladies at Mason-Dixon have going on. Many of us at the shop have begun our Mitered Crosses Blankets. Liz is using Noro Silk Garden for the cross and Manos Silk Blend for the ground. Here's her square unblocked. Let us know what you pick. And send us pictures!

We've Got News!

2011-03-23T13:09:00.055-04:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in our spring- cleaning sale. We were able to make room for loads of yummy new yarns! For those of you who love the hunt, there are a few sale items sitting in the back room. So come on in and see if there's that one last thing you might like to have at 50% off. During the first week of April, we will be donating the remainder.

NEW STORE HOURS BEGINNING MONDAY, APRIL 4th!

Monday: 11-4
Tuesday: 10-8
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 10-6
Saturday: 10-5
Sunday: 11-4

April classes are up on the classes page and we encourage you to give us a call and sign up quickly.

Jennifer is working on getting the new inventory system up and running and once it is, we're going to close the store for a few days to do a complete inventory. (Classes will still meet.)

Along with the new inventory program and hours we're very excited and happy to be introducing a customer rewards program. It's been something Jennifer has wanted to do for a long time to show how much we appreciate our customers and the new sales program makes it easy.

Liz is working on a new blog, so bear with us during the transition! (but enjoy and feel free to leave comments.)

Those adorable babies at the top of this post are new friends of Felicia's. She used ArtYarns Cashmere 5 and a free pattern from Ravelry - Baby Rollin Beret.

2011-01-01T13:04:00.002-05:00