Hey Again-

It was weeks before my last email and here I am one week later! I feel like we just “talked” but I have a few things to share since last week so here goes!

First, Thank You for all the feedback regarding Constant Contact. I eventually made it to my workshop and may try it out in a limited way for a bit then make a decision. I really do appreciate your feedback on this. So, THANKS!

Second, late August planning has set the shop up with some great offerings for the Fall. We have added some new classes and a few special events including the most important: our 3rd Anniversary Party, September 19th. Check out the class list for classes like and Oliver & S Pattern Sewing Class with a very special instructor, Home Dec Pillows in one night!, Free Club Knitting with Chelsea and the return of Intro to Knit and the VERY popular First Sweater Class with Claire. Katie is re-running the super cool Colorwork class in September and October and Roman Shades in back in October. Kids classes in both sewing and knitting will be offered and the return of our Club Nights and Events! Plus all the regular classes! Get your calendar out - and start planning for a very productive Fall at Stitch House!

Finally, I would like to announce our first of the season CONTEST! Knit or crochet your favorite Halloween themed hat and win a great prize. Just purchase your materials between now and September 15, let us display your project in the shop (to get votes) between October 1 and 15 and win a gift certificate to the Stitch House. Very easy, very fun and Cascade is still on sale - so you can really make out on this contest!

So that’s that! I hope to see you soon!

Annissa

Ever have a “hooky” day? Or at least a hooky morning? I had one today and it was FABULOUS! I was scheduled to go to a Constant Contact workshop (I am thinking of changing over to it… I am curious about your thoughts on this) and got lost on the way so I just didn’t go! I went and had cheesecake for breakfast (yum!) and had a gift certificate from a friend for a hair cut - so I went! After I spent some time window shopping and roaming. And I didn’t tell anyone, that is, until NOW! So, my advise to you - take at least a hooky morning, afternoon or evening. Soon. And the key to hooky success - don’t tell anyone!

In the meantime, plan some time with us at Stitch House. Cascade is still 40% through the end of August and our clearance section has some great finds ranging from 25% off to $2 a ball! We also have classes ongoing and upcoming. Pick one! We also have room in next weeks Kid Camp if you’re in need of a last minute activity for them and then there is our Adult mini-camp of sorts starting tomorrow evening - join us for the Amy Butler Brick Path quilt workshop. s class is designed for beginners and those wanting to give quilting a try or jump back into it after time away!. I attached the description and have listed the classes below. Give us a call or send us an email!

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! Classes are $75 (not including materials) for 4 weeks. Offered Saturdays 11am-1pm OR Thursday evenings, 6-8pm (both ongoing enrollment).

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 with a rolling start starting Sept 14. Class time is 6-8pm for $75. Pattern and yarn not included.

FREE Wednesday Evening Second Sweater with Chelsea! Welcome to the world of knitting sweaters – you pick your style and we provide the motivation and assistance. We hear over and over how you’ve made a baby or child sweater for this one or that one, but not for you - so come in and get working on your newest project with Chelsea. You should be able to knit, purl and work increases and decreases. We’ll get you through the rest! This is a free workshop, so join us any or all Wednesdays this autumn from 6-8pm.

First Time Offered! Oliver & S Sewing Class- Using the darling Oliver & S patterns join Jeannie Po, a test sewer for Oliver & S, will guide you through the process of creating an outfit for a little one. Come check out the trunk show currently on view! Class offered on 2 Saturdays: September 11 & 18, 10-1pm. $60. Does not include pattern and materials.

Simple Décor Pillows - This one session class will provide a quick introduction to sewing and sewing techniques. Each participant will sew one or two decorative pillows. The first class will introduce the participants to the shop machines. This is a great way to start your sewing journey! Offered Wednesday September 15, 6-9pm. $30.

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 us for a One-Day Workshop: Offered Saturday September 25th, 10-11:30am. $15.

We had a great time in New York for our fabric shopping trip (photos will soon be posted on my blog) and we’ve had some rumblings for something this Fall or winter (Upper side, holiday show)… do you have any thoughts about some field trips we could organize (Rinebeck, Stitches East)? I would love to hear from you! Also, save the date for our 3 year Anniversary Party on Sunday, September 19.

So, play hooky, get restarted on your Fall knitting and join us for a class or workshop!

Talk soon!

Annissa

All Cascade Yarns on Sale 40% Off during August!

I want to first thank all of you for the warm wishes for my very first Triathlon. Sunday was an awesome day of sisterhood with my college roommates Angel, Christine & Lisa (minus Sandy who sipped Margaritas poolside that day waiting for word we completed our event) and the first “healthy” thing we’ve probably ever done! They’ve all done this before and were fantastic in keeping me motivated and moving in the right direction (which can be a problem in the water). It was my first “tri” and I finished! and did okay with time, and… I say it is my first because I am hooked! and I’ve already planned my second triathlon in September. If your motivated join me at the Danskin Tri in Webster, MA on Sunday, September 26. Or, let’s do a Stitch House tri team next year! Maybe an idea to work on… I’ll keep you posted and post some pics on my blog later this weekend.

The Noro Sale has been fantastic for creating traffic this July! Thank you for taking advantage of this great discount! and now for the August sale… drum role please… Cascade will be 40% this month only!! Yes CASCADE! So the details: all Cascade in stock, no special orders and we might limit how many hanks we wind into balls for you depending on how crazy it gets in here! In Cascade we carry Magnum, 220 Wool, Superwash 220 Wool, Chunky Baby Alpaca, Pure Alpaca, Alpaca Lace, Heritage Sock, Ultra Pima Cotton, and Eco Wool! How does that sound? Great I hope! So… just for August!

We also have some classes starting this week and next. Join us for one or more of the following:

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 runs 2 Saturdays for$75 (does not include materials) Light lunch provided. Choose from the following sessions: July 31 & August 7, 10:30am-2:30pm *OR* August 21st & 28th, 2-6pm.

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! Classes are $75 (not including materials) for 4 weeks. Offered Saturdays 11am-1pm OR Thursday evenings, 6-8pm (both ongoing enrollment).

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 July & August with a rolling start – you pick! Class time is 6-8pm for $75. Pattern and yarn not included.

FREE Wednesday Evening Second Sweater with Chelsea! Welcome to the world of knitting sweaters – you pick your style and we provide the motivation and assistance. We hear over and over how you’ve made a baby or child sweater for this one or that one, but not for you - so come in and get working on your newest project with Chelsea. You should be able to knit, purl and work increases and decreases. We’ll get you through the rest! This is a free workshop, so join us any or all Wednesdays this July & August from 6-8pm.

Thursday Night Finishing Clinic Is the thought of “finishing work” stopping you from moving on? Do you have UFOs (unfinished objects) in baskets and bins waiting for seaming, grafting, crocheted edgings, duplicate-stitch embroidery, grosgrain buttonbands, picked-up necklines or just the ends to be woven in? If you want your knitting project to look professional (think handmade, not home-made!), come learn the tricks of flawless finishing with Katie. Bring your unfinished projects, a darning/tapestry needle, crochet hook, and any notions (buttons, zippers, etc) needed to finish off your piece.
Thursdays 5-8pm throughout August. $10 per session.

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. Please choose one of the following sessions: Thursdays: September 9, 16, 23, 30, 6-8pm or Tuesdays: September 14, 21, 28, Oct 5, 6-8pm.

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 on 2 evenings: Tuesdays August 10 & 17th, 6-9pm. $60 not including pattern and materials.

FREE Quilting Workshop—Beginner Brick Path. Join Annissa as she guides you through the process of making this beautiful Amy Butler Quilt. Come see the beautiful sample in the store! This quilt is a nice beginner project made from brick sized pieces requiring approximately 10 yards of Amy Butler Fabric. Other materials needed are fabric, thread, and batting. This workshop is free with purchase of Amy Butler materials. All products available for purchase at Stitch House. Workshop meets Friday, August 20, 6-8pm; Friday, August 27, 6-8pm; and Saturday morning, August 28th 9am-12pm. Email for more details.

So… That’s it! I hope to see you soon!

Annissa

Enhance Your Stash!

Join the Stitch House for our annual fabric and yarn buying trip to New York City!

We will depart from the shop bright and early on Saturday, August 14th and return in time to tuck in the kids! Well, maybe if your kids are night owls!

Stops include the wholesale district, M&J Trim, B&J Fabrics, Mood Fabrics (popularized by Project Runway), Pacific Trimming, Habu Textiles and the new location of Purl Soho (along with some other shops to be determined)!

Many shops offer one-time only discounts to participants.

Call us at 617-265-8013 to reserve your spot on the bus; the cost is $50. Fall crafting is right around the corner…

I missed an email last week and now have so much more to share with you! Some of it is very personal (well not that personal) and the rest all about what’s happening at the shop this week and next.. So here goes! First for the personal. Somehow I managed to let my college roommates talk me into doing a Triathlon (yes - a triathlon, but a mini one) this weekend. I have been working on my training and I haven’t been nervous about it until NOW - - yes, right now. The last two nights have been filled with anxiety and an almost nightmare where I left my bike helmet at home and couldn’t finish the race. I have all my gear ready and just need to pack my anti-anxiety knitting project for the ride out and for the morning of. Knitting is great therapy! That leads me to the exciting stuff happening here at Stitch House..

Noro is still on sale for 40% off - - ALL Noro is on sale!! We still have good stock supplies of Kureyon, Iro, Sock and Silk Garden - but this sale ends on July 31! Come in and get it while it’s here and on sale! If you know what you need and we have it in stock we would be happy to mail it to you. Just let us know.

We also have classes starting this week and next. Check these ones out:

Alterations - Do you have a closet full of “off the rack” clothes that need to be hemmed or a pair of favorite pants that need a zipper replaced? Bring your jeans, jackets, dresses and skirts and learn to do your own alterations. You will also learn to do perfect hand and machine stitches on your delicate fabrics. Some sewing experience is necessary. Class runs one evening: Tuesday July 27th, 6-9pm. $30.

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 July & August with a rolling start – you pick! Class time is 6-8pm for $75. Pattern and yarn 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. Please choose one of the following sessions:
Thursdays: July 29, Aug 5, 12, 19, 6-8pm.
Thursdays: September 9, 16, 23, 30, 6-8pm

FREE Wednesday Evening Second Sweater with Chelsea! Welcome to the world of knitting sweaters – you pick your style and we provide the motivation and assistance. We hear over and over how you’ve made a baby or child sweater for this one or that one, but not for you - so come in and get working on your newest project with Chelsea. You should be able to knit, purl and work increases and decreases. We’ll get you through the rest! This is a free workshop, so join us any or all Wednesdays this July & August from 6-8pm.

FREE Quilting Workshop—Beginner Brick Path. Join Annissa as she guides you through the process of making this beautiful Amy Butler Quilt. Come see the beautiful sample in the store! This quilt is a nice beginner project made from brick sized pieces requiring approximately 10 yards of Amy Butler Fabric. Other materials needed are fabric, thread, and batting. This workshop is free with purchase of Amy Butler materials. All products available for purchase at Stitch House. Workshop meets Friday, August 20, 6-8pm; Friday, August 27, 6-8pm; and Saturday morning, August 28th 9am-12pm. Email for more details.

Our New York City Shopping Trip has also been rescheduled so if you weren’t able to join us in July you have another chance! We are going Saturday, August 14th - we have limited seats reserved on the bus so check out the post and details and get ready for a day of fabric shopping in the Big Apple!

Finally, the end of August we are hosting 2 weeks of kid camps - if you would like your kids to have a wonderful, end of summer experience, send them to us!

So that’s it! A lot going on… come in and enjoy the cool AC here and a few good sales and events!

Annissa

Kids Camp is underway and the girls are making an awesome Patchwork Quilt! If you’re jealous join us for our half day session next week - - we’re making a bag! Call for more details and to reserve your spot.

Yes - you read the subject line right - we are putting all Noro yarns (no exceptions!) on sale at 40% off retail! This will only be for the month of July and while stock lasts! We won’t be able to special order any of these yarns but we do have a ton of stock! This very special sale includes Kureyon, Silk Garden, Iro, Kocharon, Bonbori, Hotaru, Taiyo and Chirimen. We are happy to mail you your order as well - just call or email us your wish and we’ll get it to you asap! We also have a bunch of great yarns on clearance - so come in and check out the great deals happening NOW at Stitch House!

The Daisy Chain Quilt group is almost done with their very stunning quilts (stop by tomorrow night to see their almost finished projects). I have enjoyed running this workshop that I’m planning one for beginners. If you a re a new sewer or a true beginner I selected Amy Butler’s Brick Path Quilt as our project for August. Join us August 20 (to select fabrics and discuss tasks for home to prepare for class) and August 27 and 28 for sewing your quilt! This workshop is free with purchase of supplies from Stitch House - see the more detailed class description attached.

IN other news… Katie is back and relaxed after her beautiful wedding and well deserved honey-moon.. She’s here as usual on Saturdays but for the Summer you can join her for Intro to Socks Knitting on Thursday evenings. This class is designed for all knitters wanting to add socks to their list of things they can make - so come in and learn from the expert! This is a 4 week series running throughout the July & August - you can start when you want and skip weeks as needed - you come the 4 Thursdays you can! Call and register for this class now!

We decided to postpone our New York City Fabric Shopping Trip until August 14… so if you couldn’t make it this weekend - there’s still hope for you to join us. This all day trip is just what the doctor ordered for a fabric fix. And, we have a lot of fun!

So thats’ that! Come in and shop ’til you drop!

Annissa

Check out this cool pillow - Fabric and pattern from Stitch House!

I missed a post to all of you last week and now I have so much to say I am not sure where to begin.. So here goes!!

Today (Friday) we have Quick Sew from 6-8pm. Join us for an evening of sewing - - we’re making a simple Amy Butler wrap skirt for $30.

Saturday has a few fun things happening in the world of sewing: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine for $15 from 10-11:30 followed by Get to Know Your Serger from 11:30-1pm. Both classes require you to bring in your machine and either a project your working on or scrap fabric to practice.

Sign up for Alterations THIS Saturday. Bring in your garments and matching thread from 1-4pm and learn how to and do! Create a better fit, hem pants or a skirt, repair minor tears or replace buttons all on your own clothes. Alter your clothes and learn from watching others repair theirs!

On Sunday, join Jeanne for Crochet Club from 12-2 for $10. (Oh yeah! My sister Sarrah is graduating from Boston Latin Academy this Sunday and I am so excited for her so I figured I would share my joy with all of you!)

A little further out… new series of Intro to Knit and Sew are now on the schedule, Summer Camps for Kids are posted and a New Summer Program for High School Students in Fashion Design

We’ve also scheduled our Daisy Chain Quilt Workshop (FREE!!) and a sure to be fabulous Yarn Sale on Sunday, June 27 and our New York City Fabric Shopping Trip is now planned for Saturday, July 10.

What else?? Lots of new yarn on CLEARANCE!! I just started all my Fall ordering so I need to start making room for these great new yarns. Come in and check out all the great sale yarns while there’s still a good amount in your favorite colors!

Until Then… Thank you!

Annissa

Join us here at the Stitch House for a day of knitting, shopping, and learning from one of the industry’s hot new designers, Stephen West.

1pm Lunch Hour: Chat with Stephen about his techniques, designs and making a name as a knit designer. Light lunch will be served.

4-6pm: Afternoon Lemonade and Workshop: Stephen will help you pick out the perfect yarn to complete one of his designs (perhaps one of our special Memorial Day Sale yarns!) Afterwards knit his beautiful shawl “Boneyard” with him and Eliza!

6-8pm Light Supper and Great Knitting: All levels of knitters are invited to work on their projects and enjoy a light supper. The perfect start to a long weekend!

See you at the Stitch House today!

This has been and will be a big week for Stitch House. This past weekend Katie got hitched! She certainly looked beautiful in her hand crafted wedding gown (rich silk shantung accentled in sage green) and knit lace wrap (bone white intricate lacework to make anyone proud). Her and husband Jonathan tied the knot at the the Old Slater Mill in Pawtucket Rhode island. It was the most appropriate site for her wedding… rushing water, summer breeze, bright sun, and an old fiber mill! It was a unique and beautiful day for the bride and groom.

Sunday I ran in the Run to Home Base 9K road race which ended at Fenway Park! It was a great treat - and all for a good cause. At the finish was Doug, the kids, my mom and Claire. Claire was supposed to run but couldn’t due to injury! We still took a bunch of pictures together and you can see them posted on our facebook site. The kids LOVED seeing their mom on the field at Fenway Park - Douglas especially. I was overwhelmed coming into Fenway and crossing home plate but the most pride I felt was seeing how excited the boys were to see me on the field. That was too cool for words. They are just starting to get to know their Mom who exercises! A number of you donated to this great cause and I thank you.

Now for this week: Stitch House is hosting very awesome designer Stephen West THIS Friday, May 28th from 1pm - 8pm. Join us for this FREE open house.. come in any time to meet, chat and knit with Stephen West. I have attached the flyer for this event and one of his free patterns from Ravelry. Stephen will be here to discuss his patterns, demonstrate his techniques and showcase his designs. Munchies, drinks and specials all day - come on in after work (hopefully you;ll get out early!).

We are open this weekend and hope you can stop by Friday (tomorrow) or over the weekend.If you’re the type to start planning a little further ahead, save these dates:

Tentative NYC Fabric Shopping Trip on Saturday, June 26th

Yarn Sale (you sell your yarn here!) will be Sunday, June 27th

Annissa

P.S. Starting in July we will be closed on Sundays and Mondays.