Well this will be the last weekend before the real craziness of the holiday seasons gets to us. I know a few of you are already done shopping and all the plans are made - well good for you! But for the rest of us… this is the last moment of peace. I hope you can start this season off with us at the Stitch House TONIGHT for our first annual Thanksgiving Pot Luck & Toy Drive. This evening (Friday, Nov 20) from 6-9pm we’re hosting an evening of fun and music and food and hopefully collecting toys for our local police department’s kids Holiday Party (they lost a major supporter this year and I hope we can help out). Join us regardless but if you can please bring a toy valued between $15 and $25 (or a gift card in that amount) and I will extend a 10% discount for your purchases tomorrow night. I think this is a great way to help out, hang out and eat! Let us know if you can bring a food item and we’ll add it to the menu. A few delights to wet your appetite include Eggplant Parmesan, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Wine and of course Pecan Pie!

We have some classes starting up over the next few weeks and into the holiday season. A few to consider now are:

SUNDAY 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, November 22 from 12-4pm. Materials not included.

TUESDAY Bella Mitten - Free Mini-Lesson - So many people have been raving about the Bella Mitten by Marielle Henault (www.subliminalrabbit.com) posted on Ravlery. To really get you going we’re holding two Bella Mitten nights - join Claire to work on your mittens on Tuesday evening November 17 and/or November 24 from 6-8. You should know how to knit and purl but we’ll teach you to cable the design in this mitten pattern - we just ask you buy your yarn from us and the mini lesson in cabling will be free!

DEC 1 & 8 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, December 1 and 8 from 6-9pm for $60.

DEC 5 & 12 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 December 5 & 12 from 10:30-2:30. Light lunch provided.

We have a ton of new clearance yarns too! All Jo Sharp stock is NOW $2 a ball - yes! I said $2 a ball. It is fabulous and I can’t order it anymore so it is that cheap. We’re also clearing out of Debbie Bliss Aran, Classic Elite Bazic & Four Seasons, Louisa Harding Grace, Cleckheaton Country and Noro Maiko. They are all 50% off! This week we got Madeline Tosh yarns and new Rowan and more colors of Magnum… so we needed room. Come in and check out what’s on sale and what’s new. All will certainly please the pickiest of knitters!

We are also planning our 2nd Annual Last Minute Shopping Party featuring all handmade items. If you are interested in having your items on display for sale at this event please let me know and I will forward you details. The only requirement is that your crafts are made by you! We had some great things last year… we just got whacked with an early snow storm. This year will be bigger and better - join the night!
And last, but certainly not least… we want to make sure your loved ones get you what you want for the holidays. Let us know what you want them to buy you and we will be happy to put it aside, email them the info - even wrap and ship it… Shoot - just buy yourself and send it to your self from him… I mean them I don’t mean to insult my wonderful guy customers… you men just have a way of not knowing what to get us so I’m offering you a hand. Let us know!

Oh! I almost forgot - - the Mitten Contest. I can’t wait to see all the great mittens people have been planning. Get knitting and get creative! If you want to enter call or email and we’ll get you the instructions (basically - make a pair out of our yarn - and plan on winning!).

I hope to see you tonight!

Annissa

I haven’t done this in a while so here it is - - I attached a pattern this month to promote our current contest - Mittens! So many people have been raving about the Bella Mitten by Marielle Henault (www.subliminalrabbit.com) posted on Ravelry so here it is - get knitting and enter our contest. All you have to do is purchase our yarn and put your mittens on display for the month of December and you can win a great prize. All contestants get a small gift and the winner gets even more. To really get you guys going we holding two Bella Mitten nights - join Claire to work on your mittens on Tuesday evening November 17 and/or November 24 from 6-8. You should know how to knit and purl but we’ll teach you to cable the design in this mitten pattern - we just ask you buy your yarn from us and the mini lesson in cabling will be free!Once you get a pair done - I know you’ll want to enter them in our contest - and then make another pair for a gift.

Speaking of gifts…(note the smooth transition, thanks) we just got in a ton of new Amy Butler fabrics to make some beautiful, sewn gifts. In fact I have a friend who is having twins! and getting TWO lovely quilts (saying it out loud will give me the strength to get them done in time) and anything Amy Butler comes out fabulous! We also have very cute kid craft sets for boys and girls and for young ages as well. We will only get this one shipment in and they are a great gift for the aspiring little crafter in your life.

Tomorrow, November 13, is our monthly Quick Sew Club from 6-8pm. We’ll be making a vintage half apron in Amy Butler fabric in preparation for our Thanksgiving Dinner NEXT Friday, November 20. We’re hosting our First Thanksgiving Pot Luck dinner here at the Stitch House. I am so complimented by how many of you think of the Stitch House as your home away from your real home, and I want to do what families do - celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with you. Join us from 6-9pm and bring a side of your choice. If you will be coming please let us know what you would like to bring and we’ll start up a list so we don’t have too many mashed potatoes (or whatever - you get my drift). During this event I would also ask you bring a toy for our local police station’s toy drive. They host several hundred kids every year for a Christmas Party and this year they lost some funding and are short on toys. Please bring an unwrapped toy valued between $15 and $25 or a gift card and get a 10% discount on your entire purchase that evening.

Other classes starting in the next week include:

Bill’s Bootie Workshop Bill is our in-house baby bootie expert. We’ve designed three 2-week workshops, each session increasing the difficulty of the booty design. Participants should expect to complete the bootie pair in each session. Each session is $30 and includes the pattern and a ball of yarn for the booties (needles are not included) and runs for 2 consecutive Thursdays from 6-8pm. November 12 & 19.

Kid’s Quick Sew - For kids only! Ages 8-12 are invited to learn to sew or refine the skills they learned in one of our summer camps. 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 sewing! After this class they’ll have the skills to make great gifts for all their friends. Kids will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns, and use basic machine functions. Two consecutive Fridays, 3-5pm, November 13 and 20, $30.

Fix-It Class-Learn how to fix mistakes in your knitting! From picking up a dropped stitch to changing a knit stitch to a purl, learn some valuable tips from Katie that can help rescue your project and sanity. Class is $15 on Saturday November 14, 2-4pm.

Beaded Shawlette Workshop - This two-day afternoon 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 2 consecutive Sundays, November 22 and 29th, 12-4pm. Materials not included.

There are two local events you might like to drop in on this weekend. First is the Holiday Craft Fair at Dorchester’s First Parish Church on Meetinghouse Hill from 10-4 on Saturday, November 14. The other event is a Girls Night Out Shopping Extravaganza on Saturday, November 14 from 5-9pm at Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy in Neponset (formerly Saint Ann’s School).

Also,This week’s Crochet Club is ON but Nicole won’t be here so come in and join your fellow crocheters - but no instruction this month! Nicole will be back next month…

Last, but not least, thank you to all that attended this weekend Noni Design Workshop. We had so much fun - - and did a lot of knitting. I hope you’re all ready to show off on Friday, November 20 at our Pot Luck Dinner. Call us or stop in if you need help!

Talk soon,

Annissa

Mitten Knitting Contest Rules & Directions

For all levels of knitters – put your needles to work! Make a fabulous pair of mittens, from the easiest to the most detailed and win a fabulous prize! Purchase your yarn between today and December 1 and display your mittens during the month of December. Customers vote once per visit and their votes determine the winner! The winner will be announced at a special event in January. All participants will get a cool gift and the winner walks away with a Stitch House Gift Certificate, T-Shirt, collectible Vogue Knitting book and bragging rights.

o Buy your yarn between November 1 and December 1

o Complete Entry Form

o Display Mittens between December 1 and December 31

o Winner announced in January 2010

Our numbers were low for registrations for this weekend’s awesome workshop planned with Nora Bellows of Noni Designs. I couldn’t let so many people miss out on what I think is going to be a fabulous time… so I invite ALL of you to join us for no charge! Please come but let us know so we are prepared with snacks and chairs. Nora will be here Saturday and Sunday from 10-4 and you are welcome both days or pick your favorite. We are also hosting a welcoming party Friday evening from 6-8pm. This is a great opportunity to meet a wonderful designer and very creative knitter! Get inspired by her and all the samples of her designs on display at Stitch House.

Marie is also here next week, Wednesday, November 11 for picture day. There are times available throughout the day and it is a school holiday in observance of Veterans Day. Use this time to get a jump start on your holiday pictures for cards and gifts. Call us to arrange for your time with Marie.

We got some new yarns for late Fall and Early Winter this week. Check out Rowan’s Cocoon and Grand Opera, Cascade Chunky Baby Alpaca, Debbie Bliss Rialto DK, Marble Chunky (very fun!), Noro Kureyon Sock, and a ton of new regular stock. I am more excited about the newest Amy Butler Fabrics in stock. We doubled our original offering - and these are beautiful cottons in quilting/garment and home decorating weights.

There are also classes starting tonight and this coming week. They include:

Cabling Mini- Workshop If you are ready to learn cabling techniques but don’t want to commit to a four week class –we have the perfect one-skein project for you! In one session you’ll get at least one repeat done on a cabled neck cozy (one of our favorite things to make) using one skein of chunky yarn. Imagine, learning to cable and leaving with a completed cable pattern repeat in just one night! Participants should be familiar with knitting and purling. This mini-workshop is $20 and includes the pattern and a ball of yarn for the cozy (needles & buttons are not included) and runs Thursday, November 5th from 6-8pm. THIS CLASS IS TONIGHT!

Bill’s Bootie Workshop Bill is our in-house baby bootie expert. We’ve designed three 2-week workshops, each session increasing the difficulty of the booty design. Participants should expect to complete the bootie pair in each session. Each session is $30 and includes the pattern and a ball of yarn for the booties (needles are not included) and runs for 2 consecutive Thursdays from 6-8pm. November 12 & 19.

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. Students are also welcome to sew a Butler bag or garment or simple patchwork quilt in this series. Pick from one of two sessions: This class is offered for the next 3 THURSDAYS for a reduced rate of $60 - THIS CLASS IS TONIGHT!

I hope to see you this weekend!

Annissa

Hi All!

Quick post today….so enjoy!

Tonight starts another series of Intro to Sew with Moo. We have 2 spots left so grab your materials and join us! You can use this class to improve your new sewer skills or learn from the beginning. Moo also welcomes you to this class if you would like to try quilt making. Call us NOW to get in on this great class!

Saturday Marie Zelmer Wu will be taking Halloween pictures from 3-6pm. No reservations required.. just stop on by! We’ll also have some fun activities for the kids while you wait. Pictures will only take a few minutes and costs $15 and includes a 5X7 pic of your cutie. The picture above is a sampling of her last round of Halloween pics.

We still have some room available for our weekend (NEXT WEEKEND!) with Nora from Noni Designs. Some of you want to join us but can’t commit to the full weekend. So… come for one day - and pick your day. I am so excited about this workshop and want you to come. Don’t worry if your bag isn’t done because we can finish it together and wash it here (yup, we have a machine downstairs). There are no excuses now! The flyer is attached. Please help me spread the word.

Home Dec meets Wednesday nights and just started this week. If you would like to join for the remaining 3 weeks you can for a reduced rate of $75. Join Julie and fellow sewers for a great time learning how to make your own beautiful drapes and Roman Shades.

Kids Club meets tomorrow night from 5-7pm. We have a few more seats if you would like your kid to have some Friday night fun! All materials are provides and we also provide pizza and a drink for $15.

Thanks to all the teachers that stopped by yesterday - we had a great turnout throughout the day… who should we do next?? Let me know!

Thank you!

Annissa

So first things first…my “owls” sweater has eyes. Check out the cute pattern on ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/owls-2

New Yarns! We have a few new things in… NORO SOCK Yarn, new colors of Noro Taiyo, Kureyon, Iro and Kochoran. More colors of Debbie Bliss Baby and the new Debbie Bliss Rialto DK (this is an awesome yarn.. so awesome I am going to scale way back on my collection of regular Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK). Then.. after getting the request too many times, I finally tracked down the Baby Surprise Jacket Pattern. I have a bunch in stock and it has the instructions for the Surprise Child and Adult. This is a fantastic pattern and the smallest sizes are usually great for one skein! Finally…. The Debbie Bliss Magazine is HERE and new beads! Check out all the colors we just got in…. perfect for making a beaded shawl or spiral hat this Sunday with Nicole.

Next week we’re hosting a Teacher Appreciation Day at Stitch House. Join us Wednesday, October 28 ALL DAY (for you that are enjoying retirement, come during the day). Teachers with a union membership card or staff ID are welcome to a 10% discount on your entire purchase! During the evening we’ll have the tea pot going and light munchies for you to enjoy!

If you don’t know how great our class offerings are try one in the next few weeks. A few starting NOW include:

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 Tuesdays 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!

Beaded Spiral Hat: This close-fitting knit cap adds a bit of sparkle with elegant glass seed beads worked into the spiral design using the crochet hook method of beading. This 2-session class will teach a modified version of the popular “Odessa” pattern by Grumperina (a free download at www.ravelry.com). This is a great project for beginners who want to learn knitting in the round, or for experienced needle crafters looking to jazz up their hat-making skills. Come in to Stitch House to see the shop model! This Class will run two Sundays 12-2pm on October 25 and November 1. The cost is $30,
not including materials, and is due at the time of registration. This is a great prep class for the Beaded Shawlette coming in late November.

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 to work on. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2-4 pm. $15.

***Noni Felted Bag Workshop join Nora Bellows, creator of Noni Designs, as she presents her innovative ideas for creating and embellishing a unique felted bag. Beginners welcome! Participants will prepare for her arrival by selecting and beginning the bag project at free knitting nights. Two days: Saturday and Sunday, November 7 & 8,
10am-4pm. $150 includes morning refreshment and light lunch. Materials not included.

Home Décor – Window Treatments This four-week class will provide you with the skills and confidence to construct a custom lined, window treatment. Students can select a treatment such as a Roman Shade or pleated drape. Students can meet a week earlier for an additional fee to shop with Julie to purchase materials. A class materials list and directions on measuring will be provided the week prior to class. Learn the correct way to measure your window(s) to assure a proper and custom fit. At the completion of this course you will have a functioning shade and instructions on how to mount and install your beautiful Roman Shade at home. This class runs 4 Wednesdays October 28, November 4, 11 & 18 from 6-8pm ($100, not inclusive of materials)

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 October 24, 31 from 10:30-2:30 (with Casey) OR November 14 and 21 (with Moo). Light lunch provided.

Next Friday evening is Kids Club! Kids Club filled up last month so get your spaced reserved for this fun time!
The Last Friday Night Kid 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. Pre-registration required to collect contact information. Club size is limited to 10.

So - that’s it for this week - I hope to see you soon!

Annissa
(remember to get more frequent updates on Twitter and Facebook)

I bet you all think I am ready to go for Halloween? I know I play this role of the super organized woman really well… but no I am not. It doesn’t help that the kids just now decided they all want to be Spiderman this year - - and Douglas says that I have to make it (imagine a store bought costume for my kids!). So that is on the agenda for next week. I will be sure to post some pictures after Halloween so you can check out my kids all dressed up. If you want to get some good pics of your kids  - - Marie is doing a Halloween Day Quick Shoot which we’re calling “Spooky Pics”, although there will be nothing spooky about it. Right now I am finishing a beautiful lace wrap in Nashua Geologie. I love it! But not as much as my Blueberry Metalic Sparkle Clapotis - that is my favorite new accessory. If you haven’t made one yet, you need to. It is a free pattern through knitty.com and here’s the link: http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall04/PATTclapotis.html I am happy to suggest some great yarns to make it in!

And for all of you who have been driving me crazy with this request - guess what!? I now carry Spud & Chloe yarns! We have most colors in all 3 weights and a ton of great patterns that go with the collections. For a sneak peak check out: http://www.spudandchloe.com/.

Katie is running two great sock workshops this weekend and next. The first if Magic Loop and the second in Toe-Up Socks. Here are the descriptions:

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 Oct. 17, 2-4 pm. $15.

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 to work on. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2-4 pm. $15.

Next weekend is another Intenstive Sew weekend if you would like to register for a great class with Casey and more wonderful offerings are listed on our website or print out the attached class listing. Join us tomorrow night for unfinished projects club.

A special thank you to all our new Stitch House followers who we met last weekend at the Irish Heritage Festival in Adams Village, Dorchester. I had a great day and look forward to meeting you at the Stitch House. Check out the class list and join us to learn or develop a new talent.

Marie is back for several photo days and we still have some times available for Saturday morning if you would like to get some fantastic professional pictures of you and your kids.. Call us for details.

So - I’m done for now, but stay updated by following us on Twitter and Facebook. We’re @StitchHouse on both!
Talk soon,
Annissa

Marie Zemler Wu will once again be bringing her photo studio to the store for the holidays. We’re now taking sign ups (call or visit the shop) for sessions on Saturday, October 17; Sunday, November 1; or the school holiday on Wednesday, November 11. The cost is $75 for a session and an 11×14 print, with a $15 discount for those getting an early jump and taking the October date. We’re also having Marie at Stitch House on Halloween, Saturday, October 31. Bring your little ghosts and goblins anytime from 3 to 6 p.m. for a quick portrait, a holiday craft, and a sweet treat. No sign ups needed on this one; cost is $15 and includes the craft, treat, and a 5×7 print. Cards with more information about the Holiday and Halloween portrait sessions are attached. Marie also has some other holiday specials outside of Stitch House, details are on the card or her website www.mariezemlerwu.com.

I am so excited to be able to participate in this weekend’s Irish Festival in Adams Village Dorchester. I hope you can join us at this FREE event, this Sunday, October 11. In addition to checking out my table there will be tons of fun for everyone in the family and some live performances. You can get more info at www.irishheritagefestival.com.

We also have another boatload of classes starting up. Here’s the skinny on that:

TONIGHT Cabling Mini- Workshop If you are ready to learn cabling techniques but don’t want to commit to a four week class –we have the perfect one-skein project for you! In two weeks you’ll complete a cabled neck cozy (one of our favorite things to make) using one skein of chunky yarn. Imagine, learning to cable and leaving with a completed project, in just 2 weeks! Participants should be familiar with knitting and purling. This mini-workshop is $30 and includes the pattern and a ball of yarn for the cozy (needles are not included) and runs for 2 Thursday, October 8 and 15 from 6-8pm.

TOMORROW Kid’s Knit- For kids only! Ages 8-12 are invited to learn to knit or refine the skills they learned in one of our summer camps. This class will teach you the basics and together we will create a fantastic project – of your choice. Not only will you leave with a finished project, but you’ll have the motivation and the tools to keep knitting! After this class they’ll have the skills to make great gifts for all their friends. Kids will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cast on, and bind-off. Starting Friday, October 9, 16, 23, 30 from 3-5pm for 4 weeks ($75, materials 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 3 Tuesdays, October 6, 13, 20 from 6-8pm for three weeks for $60. Katy is our Butler Bag specialist – you’ll have fun learning to sew with her! Join for weeks 2 and 3 for $40

Basic Quiltmaking This introductory class will teach basic quick and easy quiltmaking techniques for beginners. Using rotary cutting and machine sewing you will create a quilt top suitable for a baby, lap or to hang on the wall. You will also learn how to baste the three layers of a quilt together, hand quilt it, and how to bind the edges. Using the recommended book Last Minute Patchwork Quilt, participants will select a pattern based on their experience level. This class will be taught by Moo and held 4 Thursdays, October 15, 22, 29 & November 5th from 6-8pm for $75.

We’re also prepping for our spectacular weekend with Noni in November - please consider joining us and her and make a fabulous bag!

Oh ya! Check us out on Twitter and Facebook! Follow us and hear from us all the time!

Talk soon,

Annissa

Did that catch your attention? Yes! I know some of you love yarn so much, if you could you would!

Friday evening (tomorrow night) we are hosting a Rowan Yarn Tasting. This means we’ll have a huge sampling of all the newest Rowan yarns for you to feel and imagine all the great creations you could make. So join me tomorrow night for some touching and feeling … and I’ll add some munchies and beverages and a SALE! on Rowan Yarns in stock. Just tomorrow between 6-9pm all Rowan yarns, books and magazines will be 25% off regular retail. I hope you can join us in the fun.

In other news.. classes are filling up fast so here’s a few to consider:

Steeks 101 - Terrified of letting scissors near your work, but want to make a fair-isle cardigan (or set in sleeves in the round)? Conquer your fears by learning the basic techniques for steeks! We’ll be going over basic, crocheted, and sewn steeks. Bring 2 colors of worsted weight yarn, needles (anything from size 6-10), and a crochet hook. This Quick Class with Katie is THIS Saturday, October 3 from 2-4pm and costs $15 per person.

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 October 3, 10 (with Moo) OR October 24, 31 from 10:30-2:30 (with Casey). Light lunch provided.

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 3 Tuesdays, October 6, 13, 20 from 6-8pm for three weeks for $60. Katy is our Butler Bag specialist - you’ll have fun learning to sew with her!

Kid’s Knit- For kids only! Ages 8-12 are invited to learn to knit or refine the skills they learned in one of our summer camps. This class will teach you the basics and together we will create a fantastic project - of your choice. Not only will you leave with a finished project, but you’ll have the motivation and the tools to keep knitting! After this class they’ll have the skills to make great gifts for all their friends. Kids will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cast on, and bind-off. Starting Friday, October 9, 16, 23, 30 from 3-5pm for 4 weeks ($75, materials included)

Please keep on your calendar the fantastic weekend we have planned with Nora Bellows of Noni Designs. Here are those details:

***Noni Felted Bag Workshop join Nora Bellows, creator of Noni Designs, as she presents her innovative ideas for creating and embellishing a unique felted bag. Beginners welcome! Participants will prepare for her arrival by selecting and beginning the bag project at free knitting nights (October 10, 16, 20, 27 and Nov 3). Two days: Saturday and Sunday, November 7 & 8,10am-4pm. $150 includes morning refreshment and light lunch. Materials not included.

Chelsea posted all of our 2 year birthday bash photos on our Facebook Fan page and you can also follow us on Twitter - so if you want to hear from me MORE, that is the place to be… We are StitchHouse on Twitter and follow this link to our Fan Page on FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dorchester-MA/Stitch-House-Dorchester/117869962126?ref=ts

We also JUST (literally minutes ago) got the newest Stitch Magazine in. I got 10 copies so if you would ike me to hold one for you - reply to this email and in the hold bin it will go.

What else? You ask…. You’ll have to come in and see for yourself! I can’t wait to see you! Oh yeah- I am almost done with my Metalic Blueberry Blue Heron Clapotis wrap - - and I LOVE it! I wish you would make one with me. Smile

Annissa

I can’t thank all of you enough for celebrating our 2 year anniversary. Sunday was fantastic and all the well wishes I received that day and from those of you who couldn’t make it in, thank you. When I said Sunday that the best thing I get from Stitch House is the invaluable friendships I have made, I do mean it. You are a wonderful group of women and men and kids! And your support and friendship over the last 2 years has been the surprise I never counted on. And for the years to come, I hope that friendship grows.
As usual we have a lot of the agenda for the next few weeks and heading into the real Fall season (hello Summer - finally!?) First, tomorrow night (Friday, September 25 from 7-10pm) is our Duct Tape Dress Form Workshop with Casey. For $25 - all going to charity - plus a $5 materials fee, you’ll make a dress for using your body! Everyone will leave with a body double… We’ll also provide instruction on how to mount this dress form so you can use it! Join us and have fun for a good cause.

Second we have a few classes starting this week and next. Check these ones out before they’re gone:

Beaded Spiral Hat: This close-fitting knit cap adds a bit of sparkle with elegant glass seed beads worked into the spiral design using the crochet hook method of beading. This 2-session class will teach a modified version of the popular “Odessa” pattern by Grumperina (a free download at www.ravelry.com). This is a great project for beginners who want to learn knitting in the round, or for experienced needle crafters looking to jazz up their hat-making skills. Come in to Stitch House to see the shop model! This Class will run two Sundays 12-2pm on September 27 & October 4. The cost is $30,not including materials, and is due at the time of registration.

Pre-Teens Sewing for Kids Ages 10-12 will make a simple pajama pants in fabrics of their choice. After this class they’ll have the skills to make great gifts for all their friends. Participants will learn how to understand and follow pattern instructions, cut out patterns, and use basic machine stitches and hand sewing techniques. The first class will introduce the participants to the shop machines. This class runs 4 Sunday mornings September 27, October 4, 11 & 18 from 10am-12noon and costs $75. This class includes materials and will be taught by Julianne.

Home Décor - Window Treatments This four-week class will provide you with the skills and confidence to construct a custom lined, window treatment. Students can select a treatment such as a Roman Shade or pleated drape. Students can meet a week earlier for an additional fee to shop with Julie to purchase materials. A class materials list and directions on measuring will be provided the week prior to class. Learn the correct way to measure your window(s) to assure a proper and custom fit. At the completion of this course you will have a functioning shade and instructions on how to mount and install your beautiful Roman Shade at home. Wednesdays starting September 23, 30, October 7 and 14 from 6-8pm ($100, not inclusive of materials) Room to add class at $75 for remaining 3 weeks.

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 3 Tuesdays, October 6, 13, 20 from 6-8pm for three weeks for $60. Katy is our Butler Bag specialist - you’ll have fun learning to sew with her!

And last but not least, Nora Bellows of Noni Designs will be here November 7th and 8th for a weekend workshop. All participants will be invited to attend free classes before hand to start their bag and then spend a weekend perfecting it with Nora!  We have started accepting student registrations - so get on board!

I hope to see you soon!

Annissa