We have our own March Madness going on here at Stitch House! We have the Red line Crawl coming up (I will describe exactly what that is later), a ton of new classes (some listed in the email, the rest attached) and mini adventures (clubs are one of my favorite things to do at the Stitch House) and new product in (Amy Butler Fabrics and oil cloth) and arriving soon (did anyone say cotton?). We also have some community news to report and ask for support with.

First, let me start with the Red Line Crawl. Some of you have asked ““What is the Red Line Crawl?”“, “Do we need to drink while doing it?”, Where do we start?”, “Where do we finish?”, “Will you offer specials?”. So here are your answers. The Red Line Crawl is a spectacular yarn shopping event on Saturday, March 20th hosted by Stitch House, Windsor Button and Mind’s Eye. All three of us are located within a very short walking distance to the Red Line T and working together to have a very fun day! Our hope is that you will use the MBTA and visit all of our shops and do some shopping! You can start at any shop and work your way back and forth and end where you started or finish at the other end… it is all up to you. Consider it a self-guided tour of three of the finest yarn shops around. We will all be hosting specials events and offerings throughout the day and I think we have some great things in store for you. I attached the list of events here at the Stitch House to help plan your day better. Some of you are familiar with other types of “crawls”, you know, the kind that you don’t knit your way through. To celebrate the history of the crawl we will be offering coffee in the morning, cake in the afternoon and hosting a BYOB event in the evening. We will also feature the book Pints and Purls for your enjoyment! We have put a lot of thought into designing a great day for all our customers - I hope you can join us.

Over the next few weeks we also have our regular assortment of very cool classes starting up. Our sewing classes have been filling up quickly so check out the attached list and get yourself signed up! We are asking folks to pre-pay for those classes in high demand to ensure our classes are full and those who want to be here can be. In the meantime we have a few starting now:

Knit your First Sweater–This series will help you do more with your knits and purls. Claire will teach you the techniques needed to increase, decrease, and seam as you construct a simple raglan sweater. Using Ann Norling’s patterns for either an adult or child’s cardigan or pullover, you can choose from a variety of yarns and gauges. Check out Annissa’s Irish Flag child’s pullover for inspiration. Class runs 4 Tuesday evenings in March and April with a rolling start – you pick! Class time is 6-8pm starting March 9th (last start date April 6th) for $75. Pattern and yarn not included.

Introduction to Sewing: Butler Bags - Amy Butler is the designer of beautiful fabrics and patterns. Using her patterns and fabrics in just two sessions you’ll have a great new tote or bag to show off to all your friends! This class will give you experience in the basics of sewing so that you will have the knowledge and confidence to undertake projects on your own. You will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions. All materials for this class are available at Stitch House. This class will be held 2 Tuesdays March 16 & 23 from 6-9pm for $60 * OR* April 27 & May 4 from 6-9pm for $60.

Hat Class: Quincy by Jared Flood—The Quincy hat, from Jared Flood’s Made In Brooklyn, is good old garter stitch with a twist. For advanced beginners or seasoned knitters who want to learn some new techniques, this class will cover: provisional cast-on, built-in i-cord edging, kitchener stitch for garter fabric, and picking up stitches to knit in the round. We will meet for two sessions, Tuesdays March 9 & 16 from 6pm-8pm. $30 plus materials.

Tomorrow night is our Sweater Club night. You can join at any time and only come when you want. All of our club listings are here but here is the blurb for Sweater Club: 1st Friday Sweater Club: The Friday Night Sweater Club is a motivated group of knitters with a wide range of abilities wanting to knit and chat while making a sweater. By creating this atmosphere knitters will have an opportunity to enjoy the company of other knitters working on similar projects. Limited technical assistance will be provided during this club time. There is no fee charged to participate, but we encourage, and it is our hope, you will purchase your project materials from Stitch House. The 1st Fridays through June include Mar. 5, Apr. 2, May 7 and June 4 from 6-8pm. Space is unlimited so join us! We provide the munchies- you bring your beverage of choice!

If you’re in the neighborhood stop by and check out the newest from Amy Butler. This last week we also got a ton of Amy Butler fabrics in too! This includes some of her newest prints from her LOVE Collection and some prints made into oil cloth. Check them out and maybe consider a Butler Bag class. For the Red Line Yarn Crawl I am making up a bunch of samples for you to check out.

Many of you know I am also a teacher at East Boston High School. Every year our girls struggle to find the perfect prom gown at the perfect price. This year I am so happy to be a part of the Belle of the Ball program. Stitch House is a collection site for prom gowns. Please bring us your gently worn, but clean, prom gowns and as a part of this program I will make sure they get to a deserving girl. If you would like a flyer to post at your work please let me know and I will forward it to you.. in the meantime dig out those old gowns ladies!

There is also a local group of teachers-in-training who are part of the a program called Boston Teacher Residency. They will be teaching knit and crochet to Boston Public School students at the Hyde Park Education Complex (former Hyde Park HS). Many of their students are from Haiti, and our aim is to unite them in community while engaging in constructive activity and working to diminish the stress in their lives. These teachers are hoping to get help with to teach knitting and/or crochet and looking for leftover yarn or seldom used needles or hooks. Any contribution of time or materials, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. Donations can be dropped off at Stitch House or to the the Hyde Park Education Complex. They will meet on Tuesday afternoons through June. You can contact Melissa Wender (melissa.wender@gmail.com) or Amanda Chaloupka (amandachaloupka@gmail.com) for more information.

And lastly, Saturday night, March 6th, is the “Last Dance” at Saint Williams School in the Savin Hill Section of Dorchester. Those of you originally from this area may remember those good old days… well I went to St. Margaret School so I didn’t attend many of those dances… but I will be going Saturday! The “Last Dance” supports the Savin Hill Baseball League (which my boys will be in this year) and is certainly a good cause - and will be fun for sure!

What else? I think that is enough for today! I hope to see you soon.

Annissa

What a let down Wednesday was! Imagine all the snow we were supposed to get and then… for at least us we gone just a dusting. Well, I’m sure most of you spent the day listening to the complaints all day so I will stop now. There.

Here’s what’s happening here in the meantime: Our GREAT sale is still on and fabulous - 20% off all 100% Alpacas, Sparkle Yarns and Amy Butler fabrics and patterns. We also have some regular clearance items at 50% off and a few $2 balls left - just for you. We also have Kids Camp next week. Send us your precious ones for three days of fun! Call and reserve your spot NOW 617-265-8013. Or simply reply to this email.We also have some great classes coming up. Check out the attachment with all the classes and see the few I have highlighted below..

Intro to Cabling – Now that you’ve mastered the knit and purl stitches, add something extra special to your knitting: cables! Join Bill for this 2 weeks series on Cabling Techniques. You’ll learn two to three cable patterns and how to read them in patterns and charts. You can start a new project (we recommend a reversible cable scarf) or work on a swatches. This is a 2 week series meeting Thursday February 11 & 18th from 6-8pm and costs $30 (not including materials).

Toe-Up Socks Workshop If you’ve got the basics of sock knitting down but want to try something new, come to this one-day workshop. This class will teach you different possibilities for starting a toe-up sock, and will also handle the turning of the heel in reverse! Bring a toe-up sock pattern and materials. Saturday, February 20th from 2-4 pm for $15.

Beaded Shawlette Workshop - This one-day workshop will teach you how to incorporate beads into your knitting to add a little extra glamour! Make your very own fancy scarf using crochet hood bead technique and a simple stitch to produce a beautiful accent piece to add to your wardrobe. Come in to Stitch House to see the shop model! Class is $30 and offered on Sunday, February 21 from 10am-2pm. Materials not included.

Introduction to Sewing - “Learn to Dress Yourself” This four week class will give you experience in the basics of sewing so that you will have the knowledge and confidence to undertake projects on your own. You will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns and make minor pattern alterations for a better fit. In addition you will learn clothing construction fundamentals such as seams, darts, waistbands, zippers, buttonholes and hem techniques. The cost is $75, materials not included. Choose from the following sessions:
Tuesdays in February 16, 23, March 2, 9, 6-8pm Thursdays in March 4, 11, 18, 25. 6-8pm

Home Decorating 101: Window Treatments - This 4 week class will provide you with the skills and confidence needed to construct ONE window treatment for your home. You will review the correct way to measure your window to ensure a proper fit. At the completion of this course you will have a functioning treatment and instruction on how to mount and install it in your home. During the series you are welcome to use the shop machines, when available, to make another one to compliment the one you’ll work on during class time. Offered from 6-8pm on 4 Wednesdays starting February 24th for $100, materials not included.

Join us for a class, a club or the Red Line Crawl on Saturday, March 20th.

I hope to see you soon!

Annissa

I am bummed the Pats aren’t in the Superbowl and I actually don’t even know who is playing this year. I am usually a better sports fan… but I guess not this year. In celebration of both the Superbowl and Valentine’s Day we’re having a one week sale on some of our most beautiful yarns! Come in anytime from Sunday to Sunday and get 20% off all 100% alpaca yarns (Blue Sky has some great choices), 20% off all our yarns with sparkle (did someone say Blue Heron?), and 20% off Amy Butler Fabrics and Patterns (this will the only time this year Amy butler will be on sale). We won’t be able to special order for this sale so make sure you get here early - or call us to hold what you want!

Our plans are in the making for the Red Line Crawl on Saturday, March 20. We’ll start getting the word out as more details get set but we are going to include a special appearance by local knitwear designer, Jen Paulousky of Blue Alvarez Designs, yarn samplings and specials throughout the day. A few of you have already asked about any festivities that may happen that evening and including crawling of a different sort… we’ll see. Stay tuned and save the day (& night if you’d like!).

Madeline Tosh DK (formerly lightweight worsted) and Sock are in stock and look FABULOUS! I am so excited to have them in store… and Claire and I considered for a moment to just keep them all for ourselves. But that wouldn’t be fair - so come in and check them out before our stock is gone again!

Saturday, Jen is teaching a mini-workshop on “Get to Know Your Sewing Machine“. All of you with machines still in the box or barely used, this is the class for you to get moving on sewing. Later this month we’re following up with a “Get to Know Your Serger“. Please take advantage of these mini’s. They are great motivators!

We have some other classes and workshops happening, as well as our FREE Clubs.The following are happening SOON:

Magic Loop101 Want to do things 2-at-a-time? Socks, sleeves, legs and more? Comefor this one-time workshop and we’ll get you making two things at once on along circular. Please bring a project of your choice – socks are a greatchoice, but sleeves etc. are also welcome. Saturday,February 6th from 2-4pm for $15.

Saturday Sew Intensive for Beginners and New Sewers – So you want to learnto sew or continue developing your skills? Pick your own project and get started. Youwill learn how to read and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns andmake minor pattern alterations for a better fit. We start sewing the first weekso come with a pattern and fabric ready to go. This class costs $75 (does not include materials) 2 Saturdays from 10:30-2:30. Light lunch provided. Choose from thefollowing sessions: February 13 & 20 *OR*March 6 & 13.

Home Decorating 101:Window Treatments - This4 week class will provide you with the skills and confidence needed toconstruct ONE window treatment for your home. You will review the correct wayto measure your window to ensure a proper fit. At the completion of this courseyou will have a functioning treatment and instruction on how to mount andinstall it in your home. During the series you are welcome to use the shopmachines, when available, to make another one to compliment the one you’ll workon during class time. Offered from 6-8pm on 4 Wednesdays starting February 24th for $100, materials not included. 3 Spots Left!

Thank you! And go (Fill in the blank for your Superbowl Team)!

Annissa

Hey All!

We have a few things in shop, lots going on NOW at Stitch House and a few great things in the works for LATER… First with the NEW:

We have some new products in shop that are fabulous (I really only try to buy the fabulous if I can help it!). We have in stock every color of Louet Gems sock yarn. With a purchase of this yarn you get a FREE Louet sock pattern. This week we also got in a great line of greeting cards from Itty Bitty Witty Knitties. If you thought our Zippy Pins cracked you up - spend a few minutes digging through and reading these very cute note cards for most occasions. And, finally, MORE MADELINE TOSH!

Classes! Classes and more Classes! I feel sometimes I can’t keep up with all the classes you are asking for but I will continue to do my best. Here are a few upcoming and happening NOW and the whole current list is attached.

TONIGHT Last Friday Night Kids Craft Club: The Last Friday Night Kids Craft Club meets from 5-7pm and is designed to provide kids ages 8-12 an opportunity to sew or create a quick craft. Kids don’t need any experience to participate – just the desire to learn something new! Parents are invited to observe during the first and last 15 minutes of club time. Pick-up and drop-off times should be honored. There is a $15 fee to participate in this 2 hour club and includes all project materials and a slice of pizza and drink. The Last Friday Night Kids Craft Club meets through June including Jan. 29, Feb. 26, Mar. 26, Apr. 30, May 28 & June 25 from 5-7 pm. Pre-registration required. Club size is limited to 12. Only 1 spot left!

Knitting 101/ Intro to Knitting - If you have no knitting experience, or have tried a few times but quit because that scarf was just taking too darn long and you got bored, then this is the class for you! This class will teach you the basics, and together we will create something small, manageable and fabulous. Not only will you leave with a finished project, but you’ll have the motivation and the tools to keep knitting! Offered Tuesday evenings from 6-8 OR Saturdays 11am-1pm (both ongoing enrollment). Classes are $75 (not including materials) for 4 weeks. Join Claire or Katie for this great class!

FREE This Way Up Scarf - Chelsea’s January run with her Free Clapotis night has turned into a new FREE Workshop night with her. Join her Wednesdays in February to work on a new project – the This Way Up Scarf (free Ravelry download). Check out the sample in the shop, made in Rowan Cocoon. It is a subtle detail for a great gift – especially for the men in your life. You should know how to knit and purl but we’ll go over the pattern and help you manage the repeat design in this pattern - we just ask you buy your yarn for the Stitch House.

Introduction to Sewing: Butler Bags - Amy Butler is the designer of beautiful fabrics and patterns. Using her patterns and fabrics in just two sessions you’ll have a great new tote or bag to show off to all your friends! This class will give you experience in the basics of sewing so that you will have the knowledge and confidence to undertake projects on your own. You will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions. All materials for this class are available at Stitch House. This class will be held 2 Tuesdays February 2 & 9 *OR* March 16 & 23 from 6-9pm for $60.

Get To Know Your SEWING MACHINE better! – Do you own a sewing machine and have a great fear of getting starting or trying more than a straight stitch - join Jen for a One-Day Workshop on Saturday, February 6th from 10-11:30am for $15. Jen of Blue Alvarez Design

Introduction to Sewing - “Learn to Dress Yourself” This four week class will give you experience in the basics of sewing so that you will have the knowledge and confidence to undertake projects on your own. You will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns and make minor pattern alterations for a better fit. In addition you will learn clothing construction fundamentals such as seams, darts, waistbands, zippers, buttonholes and hem techniques. The cost is $75, materials not included. Choose from the following sessions:
Thursdays in February 4, 11, 18, 25. 6-8pm *OR* Thursdays in March 4, 11, 18, 25. 6-8pm

Magic Loop 101 Want to do things 2-at-a-time? Socks, sleeves, legs and more? Come for this one-time workshop and we’ll get you making two things at once on a long circular. Please bring a project of your choice – socks are a great choice, but sleeves etc. are also welcome. Saturday, February 6th from 2-4pm for $15.

If you can’t make it in soon, we have a few things to keep in mind for the LATER-

February Sale: 2/7-2/14: Celebrate the Superbowl and Valentine’s Day in luxury with special prices on our sparkly yarn, alpaca, and Amy Butler fabric.

February School Vacation Week - Kids Camp! Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10:30-12:30 $75

Hattitude Trunk Show in Mid March featuring the collection of 40 hats from Cathy Carron’s new book Hattitude

March Red Line Yarn Crawl: Saturday March 20th. Visit some of Boston’s best creative shops along the T’s Red Line: Mind’s Eye Yarns, Windsor Button, and Stitch House Dorchester. Specials, Prizes, and Fun!

So there is the NEW, the NOW and the LATER for you - enjoy and have a good week!

Annissa

First, I want to thank all of you for your kind words of support and prayers as my family mourns the sudden loss of my Dad. The last 12 days have very difficult. A few of you had the opportunity to meet my Dad in the shop and I am sure he charmed you as he does everyone he meets. He loved coming in and being the shop owner’s father- it made him very proud and I was so happy to introduce him and show him off. He always pushed me hard to be successful at all the things I did throughout my life. He set the bar high for my and my sisters and brother and we will continue to be the best we can because of the hard work him and my mom put in for us.

This Friday, Jen Paulosky will be joining us for a first time special event. We are hosting our first (in a hopeful series) Local Designer Series. Stitch House is thrilled to invite you to meet Jen Paulousky of Blue Alvarez Designs on Friday, January 22 from 6-9pm. This evening will include a showing of Jen’s designs, a mini-workshop on one of her favorite knitting techniques and casual discussion on knitwear design. Jen designs and sells knitwear and other clothing through her company, Blue Alvarez Designs. She has shown her fashions at Rockin’ Runway, Craftland Providence, Seamless (Boston Museum of Science), and elsewhere. She holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from McGill University, with additional training at Rhode Island School of Design. Jen is also an instructor at Stitch House in both sewing and knitting. She teaches our “Get to Know” series on sewing, serger and knitting machines. She is scheduled to teach in February – meet her in January, learn from her in February!

I also wanted to formally thank the contestants who entered the Mitten Contest in December. Heather’s Shark Mittens took home first place! She got a great gift certificate to Stitch House and a small prize. Everyone that entered a mitten took home a thank you gift. I want to run another contest in the month of March but I need your suggestions… what should I do? Let me know over the next few days and I’ll announce the contest next week!

We also have a surge in upcoming classes. I attached the class listings and here are some that are starting this week and next:

Intro to Lacework – Now that you’ve mastered the knit and purl stitches, add something extra special to your knitting: lacework! Join Bill for this 2 weeks series on Lace Techniques. You’ll learn two to three cable patterns and how to read them in patterns and charts. You can start a new project (we recommend the Yang Most Exquisite Scarf or the Figheadh Mavis Lace Scarf) or work on a swatch. This is a 2 week series meeting Thursday January 21 & 28 from 6-8pm and costs $30 (not including materials).
scarf was just taking too darn long and you got bored, then this is the class for you! This class will teach you the basics, and together we will create something small, manageable and fabulous. Not only will you leave with a finished project, but you’ll have the motivation and the tools to keep knitting! Offered Tuesday evenings from 6-8 OR Saturdays 11am-1pm (both ongoing enrollment). Classes are $75 (not including materials) for 4 weeks. Join Claire or Katie for this great class!

Saturday Sew Intensive for Beginners and New Sewers – So you want to learn to sew or continue developing your skills? Pick your own project and get started. You will learn how to read and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns and make minor pattern alterations for a better fit. We start sewing the first week so come with a pattern and fabric ready to go. This class costs $75 (does not include materials) 2 Saturdays from 10:30-2:30. Light lunch provided.
Choose from the following sessions: January 23 & 30 OR February 13 & 20.

Introduction to Sewing: Butler Bags - Amy Butler is the designer of beautiful fabrics and patterns. Using her patterns and fabrics in just two sessions you’ll have a great new tote or bag to show off to all your friends! This class will give you experience in the basics of sewing so that you will have the knowledge and confidence to undertake projects on your own. You will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions. All materials for this class are available at Stitch House. This class will be held 2 Tuesdays February 2 & 9 from 6-9pm for $60.

Tonight!! is our January FREE Clapotis Nights - Chelsea loves her Clapotis and wants to share her knitting experience! Join her on Wednesday nights in January to make your own. This is a fabulous wrap, made popular on Ravelry and designed by Kate Gilbert, is sampled in the shop, one made in SWTC Bamboo (golden yellow), the other in Blue Heron Rayon Metalic (blueberry). Check them out and join Chelsea any or all Wednesdays starting January 6th. You should know how to knit and purl but we’ll go over the pattern and help you manage the repeat design in this pattern - we just ask you buy your yarn for the Stitch House.

And Friday is the first meeting of the NEW for 2010! Friday Afternoon Young Kids Craft Club: The Friday Afternoon Young Kids Craft Club meets from 4-5:30pm and is designed to provide kids ages 6-7-8 an opportunity to create a quick craft. Kids don’t need any experience to participate – just the desire to learn something new! Parents are invited to observe during the first and last 15 minutes of club time. Pick-up and drop-off times should be honored. There is a $10 fee to participate in this club and includes all project materials and a snack and drink. The Friday Afternoon Young Kids Craft Club meets through June including Jan. 22, Feb. 26, Mar. 26, May 28 & June 25 from 4-5:30 pm. Pre-registration required. Here is a list of all our clubs.

Again, thank you and I hope to see you soon!

Annissa

This is the most fun I’ve had for Christmas in a long time! The kids are at the perfect age to really enjoy this holiday and celebrate the joy of all that’s going on. They, like me, love the lights and decorations and the bustle the season brings. Today was their Christmas show at school, they have their list and wrote their letter - and are not so patiently waiting for Santa next week. Every night Kayden, the middle triplet, asks “Is Santa coming tonight? Is Rudolph coming too?” Is is as sad as it is cute. I am lucky to report they all basically want the same thing with only some variation. This year it is all about hockey!

For me and the rest of us that aren’t all done with shopping TONIGHT is the Last Minute Shopping party. Claire and I are plugging away at setting up and all the handmade products are great! You will love them too! They are all made by local crafters and some of the gift options included: very cute baby hats, wine bottle cheese trays, jewelry, handbags, belts, papercrafts, silky scarfs, dog coats, little girl dresses, hand towels… and more! I hope you can make it this evening. We are also holding a coffee Saturday morning form 9-11am for those of you who can’t make it in. I hope you will join us and celebrate the season either tonight or Saturday.

We also have a great selection of gifts for you to request of your loved ones, or to pick up for someone special. We have ready made beginner knitting kits, kits for kids (boys & girls), fun teacher gifts, needle sets, reference books and gift certificates! We will be closing at 5 Christmas evening so make sure get in here before times runs out! (7 days left!). We will also be closing early New Year’s Eve and closed both Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Our mitten contest is underway and you have some awesome choices to vote for! When your in next make sure you pick a pair and cast your ballot. Mittens are also a great last minute gift to knit, as are chunky scarves, cowls and wraps. We are happy to help you pick out the last minute gifts you still need to make!

So… I hope you all enjoy the last weekend of running around and make time to sit and relax. Happy Holidays!

See you soon!

Annissa

Last Minute Shopping Party

Thursday, December 17, 2009

6-9pm

§

Special Coffee Morning Shopping Event by Popular Demand

Saturday, December 19th from 9-11am

Join this special event featuring a fabulous selection of handmade gifts from local crafters.

Tuesday(12/15) 10-9pm
Wednesday (12/16) 10-8pm
Thursday(12/17) 10-9pm
Friday (12/18) 10-9pm
Sat (12/19) open at 9am-6pm
Sunday (12/20) 12-6pm
Monday (12/21) 4-8pm (we’re usually closed on Mondays)
Tuesday (12/22) 10-8pm
Wed (12/23) 10-8pm
Thurs (12/24) 10-5pm
Friday 12/25 - Christmas Day - Closed

Regular hours until:
Thursday Dec 31 10-5
Friday Jan 1 Closed

All other dates and times are as usual.

My hands are cramped for cranking out these last minute gifts for Christmas! But I know how much they’ll be appreciated so I keep plugging along… what we crafters do for those we love! Last week I told you about my School Spirit Scarf for my sister so here it is! Using Magnum in Bright Yellow & Black, I cast on 15 stitches, row 1 knit across, row 2 knit 3, p9, knit 3, change colors and repeat throughout. Before you know it you’ll have an awesome gift for someone full of school spirit! The response has been overwhelming and many of you are taking this quick project on for a last minute gift too. Yesterday Anne was nice enough to forward along her version of the school spirit scarf. We didn’t have both her colors in the Magnum so she opted for Lana Grande and Sheep Shop and worked a garter stitch pattern lengthwise. Here’s her picture next to mine.

Many of our Mittens for the Contest are in (you still have time to drop your mittens off) and I hope you find some time to come in and take a look and vote for your favorite one. Here’s a group photo and soon each one will be posted on our blog site.

Interweave is offering a rebate of $5 on purchases of their books and magazines. I have attached a copy for you and we have more in the store if you would like one. While you’re in check out the Nantucket Bags that just arrived - they make the perfect Christmas gift. We also have gift certificates and a good list of gift options in various price ranges. Send them in for you or let us know what you would like….

Last Minute Shopping Party is NEXT week, Thursday, December 17 from 6-9pm and then we’re hosting a Last Minute Shopping Coffee on Saturday, December 19 from 9-11am for those of you who can’t make it in mid-week. Most of the items will still be on display through the weekend if you get inspired. Please join us for what I think will be a very festive evening or awakening morning (does that make sense?). Between now and then our sale items will still be on sale so we can make room for our Last Minute Shopping Party. We are still accepting a more vendors for this event.

Lastly, we have our class listing online and a one-night sewing event. Think about signing up for the Quick Amy Butler Reversible Chef’s Apron - This easy, quick sew project is geared towards beginners, new sewers and folks just looking for a night out to sew! This one night class includes all materials to make a reversible apron in two of our very cool Amy Butler prints. Join this one night class on Tuesday, December 16 from 6-9pm for $30.

We have a few special hours to help support you during this holiday season… We will be open late many evenings (call ahead) and on Monday, December 21 from 4-8pm. We will be closing early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Our website will have more specific times - - but call ahead and we will make sure to be here for you!

I hope to see you soon!

Annissa

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and were lucky enough to enjoy a few days off from work. We’ve been busy at the shop getting our Christmas decorations up - - and I have to say they look fabulous! The tree is huge (although we could use a few more ornaments) and Paul did a great job on my window boxes. I love Christmas. I love everything about Christmas. I love the glitter and lights and decorations and even the craziness of shopping. I love get my kids excited about Christmas and the general good feeling of generosity and extra kindness that seems to be contagious during this season. Simply, I am a fan of this season!

So the mittens are making their way in so come on in and vote for your favorite pair - - one vote per visit. We’ll get pictures posted as soon as we can so you can admire yours and theirs. If you still have your pair bring them in so we can show them off.

Our clearance table is still bubbling with great yarns and a huge discount. There is a good selection of $2 a ball yarns and the rest are 50% off… good amounts still available in Debbie Bliss Aran, Noro Maiko and Louisa Harding Grace. These will only be on clearance through December 16.

We’re starting to collect applications for our Last Minute Shopping Party on Thursday, December 17. Save the date to come shop and join us as a vendor with your homemade goods! We want to display, promote and sell your beautiful, handmade crafts. Some of what we have coming in include: beaded necklaces, handbags, sewn scraves, knitting accessories… and so much more! Please participate as a vendor and reserve the date to celebrate the season with us!

There are a few last minute classes too. If you would like to make a last minute sewn gift, join me on Tuesday, December 15th to make a reversible Amy Butler Chef’s Apron. All materials included for $30. Or, come in on the next two Tuesdays to knit a Bella Hat with Claire…. or start a pair of socks this weekend with Katie. Julie is teaching a one-night decorator pillow class on Wednesday, December 9 from 6-9pm. If you want to get a jumpstart on Christmas vacation we have a a three day craft/sew/knit/crochet bonanza for kids. This school vacation week “camp” will be held on Tues-Thurs, Dec 29, 30 and 31 from 10-12:30. We’ll include all the materials and a snack for $75 per child. This camp is geared to kids ages 8-12yo.

We also have a few fantastic knit projects for a last minute gift. I would recommend my own pattern for the Sculptured City Cowl in the gorgeous Blue Sky Bulky Wool/Alapca. This is beautiful gift that will only cost you $24! This is perfect and QUICK (if I do say so myself..)

Another last minute gift I’m making is for my youngest sister, Sarrah. She is a senior in high school and her school colors are yellow and black (Boston Latin Academy). I’m using Cascade Magnum to make a chunky striped school spirit scarf for her. I am using two skeins and one is enough so I will use the extra to either make a second one for her best friend or maybe coordinating mittens. I made a solid scarf in this a few weeks back for a shop model and using size 17 needles, this scarf took no more than 2 hours!! That was a seed stitch pattern, so a stockinette scarf should take no time at all! If any of these interest you I would be happy to put your colors on hold or drop them in the mail to you… let us know!

Wow! I said a lot this week. So join us this weekend or next week for a quick class, stop in to get some clearance yarn, or make plans to shop our Last Minute Shopping Party.

Annissa (here’s me in my Sculptured City Cowl)