A KNITTER"S GARDEN

DOOR PRIZE WINNER

2011-12-06T10:31:00.002-05:00

Our Christmas Fair was a Wonderful Success this year. I was worried, so many other Fairs I'd heard about recently, did not do as well as in the past. Times are tough, people are planning on a Hand/Home Made Christmas...What better place to Start Looking for Gifts...Local Artists and ALL Hand Made!!!! Well....My Loyal Patrons and Brand New Ladies did NOT disappoint us at all!!! We had a Great Turn Out BOTH Days. Usually, Sunday is quiet, everyone going to Church, having a Family Dinner/Day...then getting ready for the Work Week. Well, we were Very Pleasantly Surprised...Sunday was just as busy as Saturday!!! WE THANK YOU ALL, those who came by, shopped and made our Holidays so much Brighter!!! Many Familiar Faces but MANY NEW and excited Faces who just discovered AKG...Great Signs for the New Year!!!!Again, Thanks to ALL who came by...SENDING YOU Our Warmest Holiday Wishes.
I had Bob pull the Raffle Ticket for A Knitter's Garden Door Prize on Monday Evening.....Margaret O'Brien is the LUCKY WINNER.....PLUS, since she lives in Stoneham, MA...Bob HAS to personally deliver the Gift!!!!! CONGRATULATIONS to you, Margaret...Now Ann knows you were here without her!!!!! You girls will just have to make a second trip up to visit and shop!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS...J

CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE OF CHESTER...

2011-11-21T10:17:00.007-05:00

It's That TimeAgain... Saturday, December 3rd, from 10:00am to 4 pm.....Again on Sunday, December 4th, 10 am 'til 4:00pm ******A Knitter Garden****** 58 Derry Road,Route 102, Chester NH

Christmas in the Village....Lots of Shopping can be done. Congregational Church, Bittersweet Blessings Gift Shop, Cradle House and more stops throughout the Village...Get a Jump on Holiday Gifts. You will find LOTS of Mitts Knitted w/ Very Special Yarn!! Hats, Scarves, Mittens...American Girl Doll Clothes--Hats and Mitt/Mitten Sets...Jewlry, Crafts, Sweets to Sample/Order, J Drizzle Popcorn, Worm Doo...And So Much More. Stop By for Our "Handmade Christmas" Enjoy a cup of Mulled Cide, Cookies and w/Purchase, Enter for Our Door Prize...
For Extra Door Prize Tickets...Please Add to Our Favorite Charity Donation Basket for "New Horizons Homeless Shelter" in Manchester...New or Gently Used hats, mittens, gloves, socks. Any mini sized personal Health/Beauty Items (shampoo, deod,toothpaste&brush--travel-sized). They are a Wonderful Organization who help so many all year round not just during the Holidays!!
I am giving YOU MY Permission to PASS this invite along to ALL Your Friends and Family!! Have a Wonderful and Joyous Holiday Season...Love To All...Joanne :D

Diagonal Sweater Workshop...

2011-05-01T18:20:00.007-04:00

Here are three pictures of the Diagonal Sweater we are making together. The pattern is not difficult but it is a challenge...NOT a Bad Thing!!! I have made one, it lives here in the shop. I love wearing it. I made it in 100% Wool...My next was going to be mostly Acrylic for Washability but I fell in love with a bunch of Handspun Alpaca while on our Knitting Retreat last month. It just happened to find it's way home with me!!! Can't wait to start it!!!
Most of the women interested, prefer class in the afternoon, I'm aiming for the middle of May...Either on a Thursday or Friday from 1:00 to 3:00...There is a $20 deposit due at time of registration, followed by $20 for each session, I am planning on four or five weeks, your last session is your deposited $20. The pattern is available for an additional $8.00, either from me or from Ravelry. It can not be viewed otherwise. Designer's rules not mine!! I will give you a list of supplies once you have registered and made your deposit.

STOP BY...CHECK OUT MY SWEATER BEFORE YOU COMMIT TO THE WORKSHOP...

I know this is going to be great fun to knit...Like other workshops...There is a Limit of 5 students. Depending upon requests, I may repeat this workshop in the evening as well...What evening...I do not know, there aren't many to choose from!! We'll work on that as it happens!

As always...Questions...Comments...You know how to reach me!!!

SUMMER ADVENTURES IN SOX KNITTING :D

2011-04-30T21:02:00.009-04:00

...The Largest Pic, and most Colorful is an array of Many Sox Yarns.
Below: The Beginning of the Actual Toe working upward.
Pic Above: Further Progress of a toe up sox.

A KNITTER'S GARDEN is offering a Sox Class...As most know, we have a Purling Petals Guild Meeting twice a month, the 1st and 3rd Weds nights...Well, I've been asked to hold a Sox Class on the other Weds nights.....On the 2nd and 4th Weds Evenings... Classes will run from 6 to 8....They will begin on May 11th and 25th for $40 each month, paid in full at the first class. I have taught MANY classes and I understand, everyone NEEDS my attention...I am limiting classes to 5 Students, this allows plenty of personal time! Please register in advance to assure your place at the table. I plan to continue these classes throughtout the summer. A different sox will be taught and that pattern will be included at each class. Toe Up Pattern will be our first lesson.

Supplies needed for class:
1: 2 SETS of #2 Double Pointed Needles...We will be knitting BOTH sox individually
but at the same time!So you will need at least 7 #2 needles to achieve this.
2: Most patterns call for approx. 400 yards of Sox Yarn, this pattern is NO different!
3: Two coil safety pins or locking stitch markers.
4: Two regular stitch markers.

Supplies may be purchased here before class, and is greatly appreciated. Should you already have sox yarn, please divide it into 2 equal balls. Saves time for knitting.

Any Questions...Comments...Please Call Joanne at 603-887-8550
Until Then..."Keep Those Needles Clicking!"

Up Coming Event....

2011-01-31T11:16:00.003-05:00

Hello All...Shame on me. It has been MONTHS since I last blogged. Where does the time go? The Hours...Days...Weeks...We get so involved in our everyday life, we forget the FUN things. My New Years Resolution is to be Better on the Blogging Front!! Let's See...I've said that in years past too.

This is just a Heads Up....I am planning an Event in February...Still in the thinking stages but I wanted to let everyone know to WATCH OUT for a future Announcement.............Have to get all my Ducks in a Row...Keep you updated as I know "What" and "When". Trying to be Creative!! Until Then...."Keep Those Needles Clicking!!!"

Chester's Scarecrow Contest...

2010-10-05T12:15:00.005-04:00

LOOK WHO WON THE SECOND PLACE RIBBON!!!! NAOMI...NOT ME!

MEET "NAOMI the NUTTY KNITTER"....Guess Where She Lives???

THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF CHESTER IS HOSTING A SCARECROW CONTEST...Three of the members have cut, sewn and created awesome painted, highly expressive faces for said Scarcrows.....OMG....They are so WONDERFUL...the Citizens and Business Owners of Chester are so Creative!!!

There are 56 DIFFERENT Scarecrows scattered around town.....You HAVE to drive around and check them out!!!! I believe they will be around through Halloween...Come to Chester and Check Them Out!!!! They are Everywhere!!!

NEW ADDITION TO BY THE BROOK FARM...

2010-10-05T11:55:00.005-04:00

Stop by and Meet the Newest Additions to our Farm Family....Shroder and Charlie Brown...Yes Two of the Peanuts Characters!! Both are Boys and Babies...only 6 months old!!! Shroder is a beautiful Black Merino, sweet, quiet and very studious, concentrating on eating up all the moss around the trees. Charlie on the other hand, is Very Vocal, has a veracious appetite and is a beautiful dark Ivory Icelandic boy. Both Boys have been a delight and a wonderful addition to our mini farm.

Their fiber will be harvested in the Spring of 2011. Can't wait!!! This past Sunday, we went to Sallie's Fen to drop off our Flock's Fleeces...Finally!!! Three Angora Bunnies, one Shetland and one Jacob...Their Fleece will be processed together into a Worsted Weight Blend this year. Again...Can't Wait for the end result...I LOVE Our Flock...eventhough Josie, the Jacob, tried to knock me down on 4 different occasions!!! Needless to say, I do NOT go into the paddock alone any more!!! Chiropractor's Orders!!! I am nuts but not Crazy!!!

So, come on by and meet the Boys!! They'd love to meet you!!

WHAT IS A GUILD??

2010-09-16T13:20:00.005-04:00

This question has come up more than once in the past few months. I have always belonged to a knitting group of one kind or another in Massachusetts and NH.. Upon moving to Chester, the first thing I did was go to the library, get a library card and ask..."Do you have a Knitting Group or Guild in Town" I was told NO. Then asked by our librarian, "Would/Could you start one?" Of course I jumped at the opportunity.
The long and short of it, we met at the library, very soon out grew our space there. I was given a key to our newly vamped "Community Center" This is when I started researching the differences between a Knitting GROUP and a Knitting GUILD...there is a difference...GROUP COMMITMENT...
I will Gladly past on what I have learned...
A "Knitting GROUP" is just that. A GROUP of people knitting together at any given time, day or night.
A "KNITTING GUILD" on the other hand...is a "GROUP OF KNITTERS with a COMMON GOAL". To be a TRUE GUILD according to the Crochet/Knit Guild of America...The Group (GUILD) MUST agree upon a COMMUNITY SERVICE for said Group to FOREFILL in a timely manner with weekly, monthly meetings to stay apprised of said service.
Some Guilds reguire a membership, an annual fee, and actually have board members...President-V.President-Secretary-Treasurer.

Personally, I have never wanted to be that regimented but I did want to name my Group and I wanted us to be a GUILD. I learned to have those things you must have a mission statement.

When forming the guild I asked, the ladies then attending, could we promise each other to make the commitment to knit for Charity, gather our items and send them to said Charity. We have ALWAYS done this. No hesitation on anyone's part.

In the very beginning, a large box of lovely yarn was donated by a mother-in-law of one of the knitters. Using this yarn, we ALL knitted squares, we ALL assembled a full-sized afghan and raffled it off at the Chester Town Fair. One of our members bought $25 worth of tickets, she won the afghan!! She then, donated the Afghan with the raffle tally of $50 to the Red Cross to be sent to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina. We were so Proud!!!!!

Since then, "Purling Petals GUILD", a name chosen by the members, has donated to so many charities...here is a list of some...Linus Project, Salvation Army, St Thomas Aquinus, DADUZA Dolls for Africa, Helmet Liners for the Troops, California Fire Fund, Neighbors Helping Newborns, Hats and Booties for Guadamala, Sweaters for Haiti, Project Purl. I know there are more I just can't remember them all.

I must say, through my own experiences, in NH and MA, I LOVE the community, commradary and wholeness you feel by belonging to a Guild. Doing anything for another human being you will probably NEVER meet is the greatest feeling I have every known. It gives you purpose and warms the heart when the whole world seems to be falling apart!!! I could never imagine my life without belonging to a Guild.

Hope this answers the question..."Why does Joanne ask Guild Members to Knit for Charity?".....To Help Mankind!!

Scarecrow Contest...

2010-08-29T12:56:00.003-04:00

Hi All...I was just approached to enter the "Chester Scarecrow Contest" Putting my thinking cap on and coming up with some cool ideas..."She" will be viewable as of October 1st...Winner Chosen on Oct 9th...Won the "Front Door Contest" two years ago...Maybe again???? Y a never know...Stay Tuned...

Guild Resuming....

2010-08-26T13:58:00.003-04:00

Great News...Autumn is around the corner and "PURLING PETALS GUILD" is meeting again!! We took a summer break, now it is time to resume the chatter, knitting and socialization we have all missed during these past months.

Hope to see old and new faces beginning Weds, September 1st from 6 to 8...

September 1 st and 15th
October 6th and 20th
November 3rd and 17th
December 1st and 15th Then we'll go from there...

New Ravelry Charity

2010-08-24T12:47:00.006-04:00

Hello Everyone...
I have recently discovered a new Charity on Ravelry..."Project Purl"
AND if you haven't joined Ravelry yet...It is Time...there is so much great info about K/C and Kindred Spirits, just like US!!! Just Do It!

www.ravelry.com

Website address is www.projectpurl.org Their Mission is to help the Homeless in Manchester by donating knit/crochet hats, scarves, mittens, sock, personal size health and beauty aids. I love the idea of helping a LOCAL Charity help Locals. I truly feel for needy people of other countries but I think we NEED to take care of our OWN FIRST!!!

I have a basket at the shop for items...I already have 8 hats/mittens and more than a dozen beauty aids with more on their way! My husband is the first to call me CRAZY when I get crazed with a charity, constantly buying things to add to the stash!! But then...He's the first to show how PROUD he is with what I have given or collected and always gives me encouragement to continue!!! That's what I call "Unconditional Support"!!! How lucky am I???

In ending...I know I can continue to count on you too. We have ALWAYS pulled together... I am also collecting your "Unwanted Washable Yarn" for those who want to K/C but do not have the materials. I have two shopping bags already. AND if you NEED yarn to work on this project...Just Ask!! I have plenty to pass around...a great reason to De-Stash!!! My intention...

Makes a body feel so good to help others not as fortunate as ourselves. And NOT to wait for the Holidays to roll around...Someone Always Needs Help!!

Thank You for Your Support....As Ever...Joanne

JENNESS FARM GOAT MILK PRODUCTS

2010-07-09T16:07:00.007-04:00

Yep, that's right. I am diversifing a little...Always had handmade soaps on a limited scale. I have hooked up with Jenness Farm and now can retail all their products. Here are a few pics of what you'll find at the Garden...Soaps in varying fragrances, Lip Balm, Body Lotion, Brown Sugar Scrub and BUG OFF.....The BEST BUG SPRAY EVER! No DEET...No Nasty Smell or Stains on Clothes and......It Is ANIMAL SAFE!!! Angus Loves it, doesn't run away when I spray him...AND STILL BETTER YET.....IT WORKS!! I've experimented and it really does!!!

Check This Out!!

2010-07-09T16:01:00.002-04:00

Cabin Fever's "BABY J" Sweater. I have had the pattern for a while but never the time or inclination to knit one up. While at the Sheep and Wool, I spotted a really interesting Toddler Sweater. Upon inspection....."Baby J"!!!!!

Came right home, grabbed Patons Jacquard Yarn and here it is...The cutest sweater ever!!!!

I brought the patterns and yarn to the Granite State Knit In...Sold every skein of yarn and every pattern I had with me for that sweater!!! Just getting them back in stock and ready to ship out to a few who had to wait!! They are on their way, ladies.

GREEN ROOM

2010-07-09T15:46:00.005-04:00

MY LATEST CREATION....A SWEATER VALANCE! Hangers were ruining my sample sweaters...Solution...Ditch the Hangers...Now, NEW Window Treatments!

A few changes in the placement of "STUFF" I get bored so I have to Mix Things Up!!
All Books, Patterns, Odd Dyelots or Discontinued Yarns can be found in here in the Green Room Treasure Chest and Shelves...

My Salem HS Stitchers...

2010-07-09T15:29:00.005-04:00

Here are SOME of my WONDERFUL Salem High School Continuing Ed Students.
Pic #1 is Elizabeth...Her FIRST piece of Knitted Apparel! Now complete but too hot to wear!!!
Pic#2 Harriet's Sweater...by this class, still small enough to be a hat! Crazy Lady!
Pic#3 Modeling their Hand Knit Top Down Sweaters...some not Knitted for them but Modeling anyway!!

All sweaters since these pics, have been either completed or very close. Most are working on #2 and #3 Sweaters. I am so PROUD of the entire class. I hope they all sign up for our September Semester...They are such great ladies...We have a blast every week!!!!

MAKE - IT - YOURSELF - MARCH

2010-03-01T14:11:00.005-05:00

PROMO'S FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH...

10% Discount Off your Total YARN Purchase, Hand Dyed Not Included

"ALL" Instock INOX Circular Needles...Any Size, Any Length...$5.00

Kits Available..."FELTED BAGS" Knit or Crochet

ALL INSTOCK BACK ISSUE MAGS...$2

10% Discount on ALL Instock Knit/Crochet Books this Month ONLY...

Stop by and take advantage of this March Madness!!!

QUICK LITTLE UPDATE...

2010-02-23T12:26:00.003-05:00

MID-WINTER HELLO....ahhhh remember that Sunshine???

Just wanted to answer a question that has been brought to my attention...

YES...an ASTOUNDING YES....A Knitter's Garden is alive and very WELL!! So well, infact, I have not had the time to even think of updating my blog in quite some time. My classes have been very sucessful, leaving me little time for blogging...Sorry...I will try in the next few weeks to update...It is difficult to run a business alone. Even a small one, I have a family and mini farm to attend to as well as my yarn shop. My blog takes second place above the others.

I am planning some Specials for the month of March. As soon as I have it all planned, I'll post it right here plus send out an email to those who have an active address listed with me.

I am sure, you feel as I do.....Can't wait for SPRING!! Winter this year has been tough. Lots of storms, wind and COLD!!!

Jen of Seacoast Handpainted Yarns and I created two new Winter Colorways..."Winter Solstice" and "Nor'easter"...both are lovely and doing well, thank you. Stop by to see a sample. Jen has been doing quite a bit of custom dying for my customers...Check out her wedsite for colorways, new or tried and true tones. She does great work, take advantage of her talent and have some yarn dyed especially for you or a loved one...

Well, once again...I need to run...or rather walk, I have a very sore back these last few weeks...Gathering up a project, cuppa something warm and my trusty Heating Pad...Until next time..."Keep Those Needles Clicking" Joanne

Newest ColorWay

2009-11-22T20:39:00.007-05:00

Jen, my yarn colorist, and myself have created two new Seasonal Colorways...They are both being introduced at our Holiday Fair...I will give you a peek into their content but NOT the colors......You have to be patient and wait for that!
***The First is titled..."Nor'easter"... a delightfully soft superwash Australian wool of a dk weight...***The Second is titled..."Winter Solstice"...You will discover a bolder colorway, also a superwash Australian wool in a true worsted weight yarn, soft and toasty warm, perfect for a Cowl, Hat or Scarf.
***Since both selections are superwash, Children's Hats, Mittens or Sweaters are a perfect choice for this HIGHLY Machine Washable/Dryable Yarn. And MUCH warmer than an Acrylic Blend...Baby Safe and Soft!!!

I will take a pic of the samples as I complete them...Check back...

CHRISTMAS FAIR

2009-11-21T14:00:00.002-05:00

Hello All....It is that time of year again.....Many of you will be receiving either e-mail or snail-mail from me announcing our 7th Annual Fair!! Yup, that's right... this is my 7th year in Chester...Where does the time go??

Christmas Holiday Fair, Saturday and Sunday, December 5th and 6th from 10am to 3pm...Right here at A Knitter's Garden, 58 Derry Rd, Chester

I am planning to have lots of Handcrafted Gifts for you to give those Special Family Members...We will have Hats, Mittens, Scarves, Jewelry, Fudge, Soap and so much more...Hope you can all stop by for a cup of Hot Mulled Cider and Cookie. Everyone making a Knitted/Yarn Purchase will receive a Gift from me...Hope to see you here at the Garden...Happy Holidays...Joanne

"The Goings On" at AKG

2009-09-17T08:37:00.002-04:00

The official date for the first day of Autumn is just days away...We are all getting back into our schedules and routines...Kids back to school, on the sports fields, at the table with homework...Stews and Soups simmering on the stove....I made my first seasonal meal of Chicken Soup last night, to some's unhappiness. A fact of life... Summer is over and Autumn is on its way.

Give some thought to a nice, soft, toasty warm knitted sweater, afghan or even vest to warm the body as the cool nights asend upon us...Skeins and skeins of lovely yarn can be found at AKG. Great wools for felting mittens, hats and totes.

Barbara King, owner of Yarnwinder is retiring and closing her studio in Bedford, NH. As a direct result much of her inventory has found its way into the Green Room at AKG. At the moment, you will find a variety of Artful Yarns, Malabrigo, INOX Circs...all available under current Retail Prices. Weekly additions, thanks to Barbara, and deletions of the inventory is apparent as more customers become aware of our "Goings On"....Stop by and take advantage of the special pricing while it lasts...

TRUNK SHOW...

2009-08-18T14:07:00.007-04:00

Arriving on Friday afternoon was a large package full of wonderful Peace Fleece Wool and Needles....Along with these goodies came a lovely TRUNK SHOW to share with all my PF fans...For your viewing, touching and modeling pleasure....4 Beautiful Sweaters in varying sizes, Mittens, Bootie Boots, Buttons, needles and their newest...Little Chicks Kits...Stop by to see and feel and smell...Peace Fleece yarn has an aroma to savor...

Poems...

2009-08-18T13:56:00.003-04:00

Universal Yarns have come out with a few new colorways....And here are three I just had to make available to Poems lovers. I haven't knitted them up as of yet, they just arrived yesterday, but knowing the beautiful way Poems colors shade and display themselves....these new colors will be a treat!! Hope you agree...

HAND SPUN TREASURES...

2009-08-12T14:58:00.007-04:00

Here are a few pics of the lovely Hand Spun I recently acquired. As I stated, it has all been washed, conditioned, dried and measured...there are four Colors...A Light Green--600yds, a Darker Green--990yds, a Rust/Brown Blend---430yds and a Natural/Green/Brown Blend--517yds. They are all 100% wool, a very nice twist, I'll bet great for vests, sweater, hat or felted mittens among many other choices...Very reasonably priced...Purchase all skeins of one color...25% discount .....[click on pics for close up of colors]

Sallie's Alpaca...Locally milled....Natural Off White Color, 6 skeins/150yds/Alpaca/Seacell/Tencel and 6 skeins/150yds/Alpaca/Merino/Nylon/Soysilk...Both are lovely to look at and yummy to touch.....

Farmhouse Yarn Shawl...

2009-08-06T15:29:00.014-04:00

I recently finished my Shawl "Knit-Along" knitting with New England's local........."Farmhouse Silk Blend Yarn"...it is lovely to work with and even more lovely to wear! Come by, try it on...Ordering more colors this week...Requests??

HANDSPUN YARNS...LOTS OF IT!

2009-08-06T15:21:00.005-04:00

I belong to a spinning group...Island Pond Spinners...Recently a fellow member had a stash of goodies she wanted to part with....I purchased all of the Hand Spun Yarn she had...What a Treasure Trove!!! Whomever did the spinning did a great job but lost interest and didn't finish by setting the twist. So....Monday Morning Laundry...I washed and conditioned 30 skeins of yarns and hung them on our porch to dry!!! What a sight...Beautiful Sight...Do you not agree?? Stop by and give it all a feel...

Bailey Island, Maine

2009-08-06T14:30:00.005-04:00

Bob and I celebrated our 25th Anniverary...We went to the islands...off the coast of Maine that is!! What a BEAUTIFUL place, so green and blue...Here are a few pics I'd like to share...

PICKITY PLACE...

2009-08-06T14:20:00.005-04:00

Purling Petals Knitting Guild went to "Grandmother's House" What Big Teeth You Have Grandmother!!!!!

Yes, we went to the Home of Lil' Red Riding Hood's Grammy...Pickity Place. What a fun place to go, great gift shops, greenhouse and Wonderful Luncheon...We all had a fun day...Clockwise...Me, Cheryl A, Marlana, Pam, Julie, Cheryl P and back to me...

Magic Loop...

2009-08-03T13:31:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone...Our Saturday's Magic Loop Workshop was AWESOME!!!! Kim did an terrific job of teaching us, she was very patient with us...and yes, I did say "US"...I know I said I'd never learn, didn't want to, had no desire...then I watched and HAD to do it too...It is fun once you get the jist of it...It's a rhythm! We were a little slow to get the cast on, we didn't get as far along as Kim had wanted us to... so she assigned us homework. We are meeting again on Saturday to keep the rhythm going! Kim is more than willing to repeat the workshop should anyone, like me, have a change of heart!! I'll take pics Saturday and post our progress...

AKG Addition...

2009-07-31T23:08:00.005-04:00

Barbara King of "The Yarnwinder Studio" will be closing her door after many years of serving the knitting community. She has chosen "A Knitter's Garden" to make available much of her remaining inventory as of September.

Please stay tuned for forth coming info...

A Knitter's Garden is planning a few "Autumn Specials" you do not want to miss!!

My Button and Stitch Marker Swap...

2009-07-10T08:32:00.007-04:00

Most knitters are aware of Ravelry...I belong to a number of different groups there. This last SWAP I did was so much fun...not a real big commitment, no knitting involved, just collecting a few specific things and off you go. We emailed our matched swapee with a few questions on likes etc...My swapee went above and beyond...You should see the cool hand designed and hand made Stitch Markers...3 sets of them, Yarn Note Cards are so LOVELY, tea and candy(gone but not forgotten), really cute buttons...2 painted enamel-a butterfly and a kitten-and a round ceramic one. As if that wasn't enough....also in my box of treasures...Square Circular Needles by Kollage, can't wait to check them out, and the most beautiful Shawl Clasp...forged glass, shimmers with the light...Just Magnificent!!!
Here are pics of MY gifts sent by my Friend Brenda AKA quilt2, I can't THANK YOU enough.....I LOVE LOVE LOVE EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!

Socks on the Magic Loop.....

2009-06-29T19:02:00.003-04:00

We are planning a Sock Class for any interested in learning "Magic Loop...Two Sox at Once" Of course, any who know me well realize....I can't teach that class myself...I can not knit socks to fit human feet!!! So, a very talented knitter, Kim, is going to be the instructor for the class.

There are a few requirements...
....you MUST have Sock Knitting Knowledge...

The class will be held Saturday, August 1st from 11:00 to 2:00
The cost is $45/3 hour workshop...Registration MANDATORY with $20 deposit.
You will be knitting a pair of baby socks, the smaller size will give you time to achieve all sock components within this 3 hour time span.

Supplies needed for the class are a skein of sock yarn, stitch markers, Circular Needles size #2 or #3 x 47"...Everything is available here as well as the Magic Loop Booklet and a couple of highly recommended Sock Knitting books.

We have been planning this workshop for quite some time....I am sure it will be enjoyed by all who participate...

How do I squeeze it all in???

2009-06-28T16:18:00.008-04:00

New Yarns have arrived, New Patterns and New Ideas...
Joe Raffino of SWTC stopped by the shop awhile back. He had a trunk show with him and shared a bit with me and a couple of customers who just happened to be here that day. The "Big V Vest" was so impressive in person...not so much by the pic...I ordered the yarn...Terra..50% Bamboo/50% Cotton...in five colors. The Patterns are also here...I have started mine, had to put it aside and now am trying to get back to it...the back is finished, the fronts [I like to work on both tog] are on the needles...Stop by and check it out...Very Nice Drape and Feel, Perfect for Summer.

Joe also put together a lovely kit for me....A MARIPOSA Shawl available, two kits in varigated Bamboo colors, Peacock and Vineyard in stock.

SWTC's "A-Maizing", their Corn Fiber is here too...available in 3 colors. A flat ribbon like yarn, fun to work with cool and washable, great for summer Tanks. I have knitted a baby sweater "to check it out for you", any excuse! What a pleasure to knit with!! Sample sweater is here for your viewing, touching and fondling!!

AKG has another Original Pattern available for your knitting ease...Child's Tank Top...available in 4 sizes. Knitted on circular needles...sample for you viewing.

Stop by when the spirit moves you, but don't wait too long....UNANNOUNCED Summer Specials...but you have to visit in person to take advantage.....See you soon.....

Finishing Class...

2009-06-28T16:00:00.004-04:00

As promised, we had our "Finishing Class" on Saturday. We had a very productive day. I believe everyone caught on to the techniques covered. We accomplished everything I had planned to touch on in less time than expected.

I will be holding another secession in August for those who could not attend this one due to vacations...see, they do get in the way!!! Again, I will announce the actual date as soon as it is determined, either Saturday, August 8th or 15th. More details to follow...

Thank you for those who attended...You all did very well....ever a question...do NOT hesitate to ask, I am ALWAYS available to you.

Gift Certificate of the Month Club...

2009-06-28T15:50:00.002-04:00

I am going to suspend this club for the duration of the summer. So many of my knitters are absent due to childrens' schedules, summer vacations and heat...who wants to knit heavy afghans during a Heat Wave...right Staci?

So, we will forgo "The Club" for a few months...Let's plan on bringing it back the first of October...Schedules and General Insanity should have calmed down by then!!!

I will remind everyone as Autumn approaches....

GRANITE STATE KNIT IN

2009-05-31T10:30:00.003-04:00

Hello All, Just a quick note to remind you the Shop will be CLOSED on Friday and Saturday this week....I am vending at the GSKI again this year. Looking forward to the day. Great Company, Great Classes, Great Lunch and Great Fun with Kindred Spirits!!! Wish you could all attend, it is a wonderful experience. I am planning to check out the class taught by Barb Burri, "Knitting with Wire", sounds very interesting. I may have to partake or better yet, hold my own this Summer. Something to look forward too!!!!!

I am planning a 3 hour class here at the Garden...Saturday, June 27th from 2 to 5..."Corrections and Finishing Class"...Registration is required, deposit of $20 in advance. A Finishing Booklet, $8 value, is included in the class price of $40. Give the shop a call to get your homework assignment and list of supplies needed to bring along to class. Maybe we could go grab a bite to eat after class, Derry Rest., Cracker Barrel, for those interested.

I am also planning a "SOX" Class this summer, possibly a July Saturday, with Instructor, Kim , since I have never sucessfully finished a pair of "Wearable" sox, I am not qualified to teach this one!!! All interested parties, again Registration is mandatory, deposit required. Kim will supply us with a list of supplies needed for the class, all will be available here at the shop.

Upon return from the KI, I will update on new yarns that have arrived...a few to talk about...New Patterns too! One of my own designs...Grab Bag Shawl...Great Stash Buster! My Shawl is here to view.

Hope to hear from you all very soon....Enjoy the SUNSHINE!!!

GIFT CERTIFICATE OF THE MONTH CLUB...

2009-05-02T11:46:00.004-04:00

The happy winner for the month of April is none other than...................... Carol Mc Farland...Carol is the woman who suggested this monthly drawing after winning a Gift Certificate from a quaint gift shop in the north country of Berlin, NH. It has been a great way to entice you into my shop and the anticipation for the drawing has been delightful!!

So...Here we go again...Come on in, Sign Up and See who gets a Shopping Spree!!!!

Thank you for all who have participated...

Seabreeze Quilt Fair...

2009-04-28T14:50:00.005-04:00

Here is a little peek of my table at the recent "Seabreeze Quilt Fair". Held at the Stratham Middle School...What a WONDERFUL event!!

First displaying of my brand new Banner!!! My friend Cheryl had it especially made and presented it to me this past Christmas, what a lucky person I am to have such a thoughtful friend....Thanks, Cheryl, You recieved lots of compliments on your idea of the banner!!

So Many Quilts to look at, mind boggling!! Such very talented quilters...You have to make an attempt to stop by next Spring to view these beauties, grab a quick homemade lunch and dessert and pick up yarn, fabric and goodies.....Sorry no pics of the quilts, I was too busy!! Next year I PROMISE!!!!!

Luxury at its Best...

2009-04-28T14:15:00.003-04:00

Caron intoduced these two new Yarns to their line a few months ago, we now stock them each in 5 Lovely colors.... "SPA"...A Rayon, Bamboo and Acrylic Blend ,comes in 251 yd skeins, Washable/Dryable Sport Weight suggested #6 needles,5 sts to the inch.
"COUNTRY".....considered a Light Worsted Weight Merino and Acrylic Blend available in 185 yard skeins, Washable and Dryable, Suggested #8 needles, 4 sts to the inch.

Spa will make the most "Luxurious" Summer Tank or Shawl

Country is lovely to feel and beautiful to look at it's stitch definition, Cottage Creation's Funnel Sweater has been knitted with Country, Infant size is here on display for your viewing pleasure.

Just In...

2009-04-28T13:53:00.005-04:00

We will be featuring New Summer Yarns for the Spring and Summer Seasons...
Universal Yarns has a beautiful cotton..."Cotton Supreme" ~ 180 yards ~ Needle 7-9 ~ 4sts=1" ~ Crochet Hook I~J~K

It is in stock in two colors...Caramel and Blue Bird Blue

Knitting with this yarn is pure pleasure...looks and feels like Silk...Come and fondle this beauty...

Knitting Retreat Weekend...

2009-04-06T18:49:00.007-04:00

Our hostess, Jeanette, owns and operates Soo Nipi Lodge. Once a dairy barn, after a 2 year renovation, it can now house up to 20 quests. Accomodations include a Spa/Workout Gym and all amenities for a wonderous mountain stay.

We shared all meals and activities in the main room and sunroom...lots of space and sunshine, when it shows itself!!

New friends abound...this will be an annual event PP will partake in for many years to come!!

We went on a "Field Trip" to Hodge Podge Fiber and Yarn Shop in downtown Newport. Sue's shop is almost as comfortable as AKG! Just kidding...MUCH more yarn and notions but the SAME warm and cozy feelings as AKG...Loved every minute of being there and can't wait to return!! Thank you Sue for your hospitality.

This was the best weekend away I have had in ages!! 6 knitters from Purling Petals, 3knitters from Ravel Rousers and 8 other knitters from MA, NH, Conn and ME. We had a ball. Great food, wonderful accommodations, beautiful scenery.....knitters are the best!!! We discovered lots of "Kindred Spirits" on this yarn crawl!!

Mr. "Snowball"

2009-04-03T09:29:00.007-04:00

Here he is in all his glory!! Mr. Snowball...our newest addition to our family of Furry Friends...He was given to us by a spinning friend and her family. He is the sweetest bunny, LOVES to be held and has a veracious appetite!! He has some skin issues, hair lose and a fur ball in his tummy that you can actually feel!! So, after a long and arduous search for an Exotic Vet...we found Dr. Sonya Dennis...she and her team are so awesome!!! Poor Snowball has hair mites...nasty little critters only seen by a microscope...which I had the pleasure of viewing...UCK!! This type of mite is very common in bunnies, not passable to other animals or humans! VERY curable but I have to be extremely diligent with his treatment of Selamectin, speciality foods to address the Fur Ball, brushing to get rid of the dander and keeping him away from the ladies!! Of course, that is not a problem since NONE of our bunnies are fixed...and there is to be NO cohabitation!!!!!

I asked Bob to take a few pics so you could see this very Handsome Guy...I am working on acquiring an addition Hutch to place on the front porch by the shop door so each morning a Different Bunny will Greet You!!! Hopefully you will all meet him very soon...

Gift Certificate of the Month Club...

2009-04-03T09:20:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday, Jenn Belcher and her cutey boy Ryan came into the shop. Ryan was the first male of the day! He is a 2 1/2yr old bundle of jumping joy!! He picked the winning name for the club this month.........Cheryl Perkins.....AGAIN!!! What are the chances of one person winning both months?? What a lucky son of a gun!!
Cheryl has a $60 GC to spend on yarn, books or anything else she desires here in the shop. Congratulations to you Cheryl!!!

April is here and we have already started...2 so far....Come on in girls...We can't let Cheryl win a third time!!!

KNITTING RETREAT.......

2009-03-23T19:42:00.003-04:00

Just a note to let everyone know...A strong desire to Brush out the Cobwebs has come over our guild....
.....A KNITTER'S GARDEN will be closed on Fri-Sat-Sun April 3-4-5....
Along with Purling Petals, we are attending a Knitting Retreat...I'll post pics and info when we return...Hope to bring home to my garden a few new ideas and projects...

My husband and girls will be around, but they will not be of help to any of you, please just hold off your visit until Weds-Thurs-Fri-Sat, April 8-11...Everything back to normal again....until....Saturday, April 18th, Shop Closed Again..... I am vending at the Stratham Middle School for their..."Seabreeze Quilt Show". Check back for more info when I have more to tell.

And, of course, do not forget "The Granite State Knit In" on Saturday, June 6...Plenty of time for updates on this but keep the date open...Loon Mountain Ski Lodge for the day...Lunch, Classes, Shopping, Guest Speaker, Raffles and Yarn...Yarn...Yarn...And Lots of Kindred Spirits...

I leave you now with one thought...
Keep Those Needles Clicking!!

Easy As Pie Vest...

2009-03-14T18:50:00.004-04:00

I have been wanting to make myself a vest forever. Peace Fleece's Zayga Fog colorway has been speaking to me for quite some time. So, I just had to do it! A very simple and basic vest pattern, from PF themselves, but of course with a twist! I was teaching a lovely 12 yr old young lady, Caroline, how to make a cable scarf when she asked me what I was knitting. I preceded to tell her about my vest, she then very quietly suggested I rip out what I had to incorporate a cable..."It will be worth the trouble of ripping out the front to start again" She told me...She impressed me with her tenacity...and I was taught to do what I was told!! I did it. She and I together, chose a cable pattern right then and there.....4 days later....I am finished and have worn my vest 3 days in a row because I LOVE THE CABLE, the Idea, how it came to be and Caroline!!!!! Thank You Girlfriend!!!!

Pattern I have Always Loved...

2009-03-14T18:40:00.006-04:00

I didn't think I could pull this Cable Pattern off but guess what......I DID!!

I have always admired the Woven Cable in Relief but didn't think I had the knowledge or ability to succeed with it. I, of course, couldn't knit it in a straight pattern, that would have been WAY to easy! I had to design a Circular Headband and Cowl...after 3 attempts, cursing, coffee and more cussing... and just plain aggravation, I did succeed. I have printed the patterns in very understandable script for all to follow. I will be bringing the pattern and pics to the printer and the availablity is on the horizon...

The Garden Series...Second Edition

2009-03-06T13:46:00.004-05:00

The waiting is over...Announcing the Second Edition of the Garden Series Handpainted Yarns..."Sweet Clover"...A lovely cuddley soft worsted weight yarn produced in a Superwash of 220 yards per skein...Wonderful for a lacey scarf, infant blanket or 5 hour baby sweater...Swing by and feel for yourself...

Gift Certificate of the Month Club...

2009-02-27T11:49:00.000-05:00

So Exciting....Our First Drawing.....

Today is the day for our first drawing for the winner of the "Gift Certificate of the Month Club"..........Drum Role Please....And the Winner is....

.......Cheryl Perkins.......

I had my first customer of the day, Cheryl Bernoth, draw the winning name this morning..........Congratulations Cheryl!!!

This past month, we had 5 participants, so a GC for $40 is waiting for Cheryl to use...

The month of March has 5 weeks in it...$10 for the month, one participant so far has already paid her dues...Come On Ladies...Let's Keep This Going....

Luke.......

2009-02-22T11:33:00.000-05:00

This will be my last Update on my Buddy Luke...He is no longer with us. Last Sunday we surrendered him to the NHSPCA. Not our choice or desire but out of necessity...Luke was not a very social guy and our house has people coming in and out all day, especially when the Yarn Shop is open. Luke was very nervous and anxious with all the comings and goings, scared of big people, scared of little people, everything frightened him........A very difficult decision had to be made. Hopefully he is in a better place...Love goes out to you Luke...Lots of Love...

First Drawing....

2009-02-22T11:26:00.001-05:00

Friday, February 27th, will be the first drawing of our "Gift Certificate of the Month Club" We had 6 participants, the "GC" will be for $48 to be spent at the Garden, no restrictions on purchases. The March Club starts on March 2nd and continues thru March 30th...5 weeks!! Let's see how many more join in the fun...Thank You Carol for this awesome idea!!

Knitted Projects 101...

2009-02-22T11:05:00.000-05:00

Check out this sweater knitted with Universal Yarns......."Tapestry"....Just knit and the yarn gives the look of Fair Isle without the work!!

This sweater was knitted in the Garter Stitch....So very Nice...When knitted in a stockinette stitch, a bolder pattern emerges. This yarn is available at The Knitter's Garden in 10 color ways with solids to coordinate, samples knitted to view patterns for most colors.

Mom, Lorie knitted this sweater for Son, Jonathan, our model. What a handsome guy!!!

The Garden Series Yarns...

2009-02-22T10:31:00.000-05:00

Here you have it.....The Garden Series' first yarn, "PURLING PETALS" in all it's glory....knitted by mom, Lorie and modeled by daughter Laurel. The yarn knitted up in such a lovely pattern. I am so pleased with the results...The yarn is wonderful to work with, a DK weight in a Superwash. Lorie did such an awesome job of knitting the Hoodie!!! I do not know which I am more proud of...Lorie's knitting skills or my Purling Petals yarn!!

Coming in Mid-March, the Second Edition of The Garden Series....."Sweet Clover", a light Worsted Weight Wool, 220yds per skein and also a Superwash. The color and texture is soooooo Soft...Can't wait to show you all.....

Our Spring Agenda will bring you......"The Garden Series Lapghan", a Sampler Lapghan featuring each New Color addition, as it matures. Each color will have it's own special stitch patterned square, then they will melt together in a lattice of solid contrasting color. The plan is 3X3, 12" Squares...3 across and 3 down.
A great experience for learning new pattern techniques on an small scale, not overwhelming but a bit of a challenge.

Gift Certificate of the Month Club...

2009-01-01T19:19:00.000-05:00

I am beginning a new venture...Won't you join me??
Gift Certificate of the Month Club...This Basket and a Log book will be on the Table...Here's how it works...
You must sign in the Log Book and place your $2 in the basket each week for one month. At the end of the month, a tally of the cash will be made and a name will be pulled from the participating customers. That Lucky Customer will recieve a Gift Certificate from A Knitters Garden for the full amount of cash collected for that month....And then we start all over again!!

Now, should you happen to belong to RAVELRY, live out of state or just can't get to the shop on a weekly basis, you may still belong to our "Club" via Snail mail...you may send a check for a full month, the week before the first of a new month...either $8 or $10 depending on how many weeks are in that month. I will log you in for the correct number of weeks/months you send money for and you will have the same chance to win as if you were here doing it yourself!!
I will e-mail the winner and send their chosen purchases via ups/uspp at my cost. Our first month will begin now and we will go through to February...it's a short month and mail takes time for those who may want to join us...

Very Exciting Announcement...

2009-01-01T15:44:00.002-05:00

A Knitter's Garden along with Seacoast Handpainted Yarns is introducing a new line...The Garden Collection...The first in the Collection has been designed and named after our Knitting Guild..............."PURLING PETALS"... It is a Superwash 100% Wool, DK Weight, 140 yds, #5-6 Needles, 5sts=1" Cost is $17.00 a skein.

My hope is to introduce a new color bi-monthly...designed by Jennifer and myself. This yarn is available exclusively thru AKG at the moment...

Look What Bob and I Created this Season...

2009-01-01T14:50:00.000-05:00

Here's a Close Up of Our Master Piece....
A more distant shot...those two bottom windows are the shop...Candles always lit and Welcoming...oops, you can't see the candles...IMAGINE!!
Bob made the Knitting Needles out of broom handle replacements and actually whittled the points by hand!! The Caps are wooden "Apples" that he nailed to the needles. The yarn is just that, Heavy Rug Yarn wrapped over styrofoam balls. I just love it. My brother Russell and my friend Cheryl added their thoughts to the original idea while Brainstorming for the Chester Front Door Contest, which never materialized this year!

Thank you for all the wonderful Compliments we recieved on our design...

Chickens and Eggs...

2009-01-01T14:22:00.000-05:00

The Largest and Smallest of our eggs...
A Mountain of Naturally Colored Eggs...
Here some are in all their Glory...
After the Egg Wash...
Let's talk about my newest girls. In the early spring, we got a new brood of baby chicks. 12 of them, all different than we have ever had before...6 Araucana
which lay colored eggs from light blue to olive green...2 White Silkies...teeny weeny beige eggs, they are bantam chicks and I just discovered, one is a rooster...and 4 Cochin...they lay brown eggs and have furry feet as do the Silkies...plus we still have 7 chickens from two years ago...5 hens...who lay white eggs when they feel the need and then my boys...2 Roosters..Alexandro and Budweiser...lovely in color, the guys usually are, reds-golds-iridescent-greens and blues...they are the nicest roosters, such Gentlemen, they wait for all the girls to come out of the small run into the larger, they never go first and when it's time to go back into the coop...they are the last to enter...making sure all the girls are okay!! It is so cute to watch them...Since the girls started laying, they have been very productive. We usually have 2 dozen eggs in the fridge all the time but has been upwards of 8 dozen!! Always ask, they are for sale...You will never eat a store bought egg again once you've had home grown!!! Well, enjoy the pics...

The Boys

2008-12-30T16:07:00.000-05:00

Everyone is always asking about my boys and "How Is Mr Lukey doing??" My Dog in "Training"...always in Training!! Here are some pics...you look at that face....how can he be so crazy!!!
Angus is still the Best Dog in the World...getting alittle grey!! He is so sweet and HE love Luke! They are the best of friends!
To get back to Luke...He has his days...he is a very lovable dog to his Core Family and that is about it!!! He has acquired many nicknames...Cujo comes to mind first and Psycho Dog is another top contender. He is very nervous, shy, timid and NASTY! He makes noises I have never heard a dog make...I have seen two different Dog Psychologists, I didn't know how to care for him.....he has made us so crazy with his unnatural behavior. Good thing we love him so much...No ordinary family would put up with is temperment/behavior. Julia, Sarah and I were making great strides, we took a break over the summer, my being sick and all. I am hoping to start working with Julia again soon.

Hello and Happy Almost New Year!!!

2008-12-30T15:49:00.000-05:00

I am going to make a New Years resolution....to be a better Blogger this year!!!
I know I should but I can never find the time to sit and type all my important info...So here goes...Better late than not at all...
The Pictures at the top are my students from Salem HS Cont. Ed Class I taught in September...We accomplished quite a bit...Started with Dish Cloth, onto a scarf then a Sampler Afghan. Everyones project was a little different but boy.....they did great!! I can't wait to start up again in February...I hope the girls sign up for the class again, they were a great group. Half was from my previous class...we met through the summer too. What fun!!

Field Trip

2008-10-07T09:07:00.001-04:00

So here we are...Purling Petals visiting Sallie's Fen in Barrington...Our first "Group Field Trip"
Pic...The Babies..Angel is 7 days old!...Inside the Shop, Cheryl, Pam, Nichole, Cheryl, Marlana, Nicola and Sallie...I am behind the camera!
Missing from our trip were Marlene, Sylvia, Mary Ann and Alice...who will be sorry when they see what they missed!!!!

...We had a ball, saw brand new Babies, lots of Awesome yarn and roving, Sallie gave us a personal tour of the yarn mill...AND...
...I picked up my Girls Spun YARN...OMG...It is SO AWESOME...Sallie did an incredable job of spinning my fiber into lucious 3 ply dk wt yarn. The Jacob/Angora, once washed, is heavier than the Shetland. What a halo!! I started knitting with it that night!! The class I teach in Salem started a sampler scarf on Tuesday, I had no intensions of making one...Guess what?! That is exactly what I am making...with alternating stripes...Blend(Josie,Bonnie,Gracie) for 4" then switch off to Harriett for 4" then back to the Blend and so on. It looks great but FEELS...can't be described, you HAVE to feel it for yourself!!! Stop by the shop and I'll let you "Fondle" my scarf and yarn!!

For those interested...The skeins are 250yds @ $25 each, there are 6 skeins of each color available as we speak. This Saturday/Sunday, Oct 11 and 12, I am vending at Fiber Studio and intend to bring my yarns with me...I do not know what I will come home with...if you really want any, I would suggest stopping by this week...Or seek me out at Fiber Studio during the Wool Arts Tour this weekend...Until next time...Keep Those Needles Clicking!!

My Autumn Sock or Scarf Swap package...

2008-09-22T20:26:00.000-04:00

Look at all the goodies my friend Kim sent me...There is Yummy Yarn that reminds me of a pumpkin sitting in a patch with leaves laying near it,a lovely Leaf Motif Scarf Pattern, Leaf Stitch Markers, two wonderful Candles, Choco. Peep Cats, Coconut Chai Tea (the best ever!!), Ceramic Pumpkin, a soft Door Knob Pillow, Soup Mix for our crisp New England evenings...I know I left out something...there was just so much!! This was the best swap I have even participated in. Kim, Thank You for all your thoughtful gifts!!

International Scarf Exchange Gifts...

2008-08-06T14:09:00.000-04:00

I am ashammed of myself for not posting this picture sooner but....life has a way of getting IN THE WAY!!!

Do not be too jealous of my beautiful Mohair Scarf with Beaded Fringe...It is so soft and yummy!! I know come fall, I will have to fight off my two daughters to wear it myself!!! Along with my scarf, Dorothy sent three different bottles of Crabtree and Evelyn oils that you place on a clay bib over a light bulb, when it heats up...the fragrances are intoxicating!!! The Maple Leaf shaped candies are heavenly and the lip gloss is GONE!!! Thanks girls!!! Dorothy, they enjoyed it! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness...

Thank you ladies, your hard work at coordinating this and past swaps is so very much appreciated!!!! When do we do it again??!!

KAL Shawl AKA Kitchen Curtain

2008-08-06T13:57:00.000-04:00

Now...Here are pictures of my KAL Shawl that turned into a Curtain when it fell off my needles,lost the edge stitches and I could not retrieve them!!! Actually, I started over with Cotton that matches my newly painted Kitchen walls...I just love it...provides just the right amount of privacy from the farmers porch entry.

I am going to try to post this on the AKG at Ravalry but I do not know how sucessful I will be....please just bear with me!!

New Yarns, Needles and Stuff...

2008-08-06T13:34:00.000-04:00

Hello...A few new additions here at A Knitter's Garden...
POLAR KNIT YARN has finally arrived.
Available in four colors, free patterns on the website, printed out here and yours when you purchase Polar Knit Yarn...55yd balls @ $8.95...I have knitted a sample of the Cable Cap...Very nice, warm and soft!!

Now carrying KA Japanese Bamboo Needles...Circular and Double Pointed...Wonderfully Smooth, nicely pointed...Greatest feature...The Needle rotates on the connector!!! You have to check them out!! I love them better than ----, still carry them, too!!

Many new colors of Seacoast Handpaints added to our inventory...sport and worsted weight, Superwash merino, angora...lucious yarns and colors...yes, I do allow fondling of my yarns!!

Buttons you may ask...Antler Buttons...very interesting...very individual in style. Sets of 2 and 4 and 6...reasonably priced.

A Knitter's Garden Ravelry KAL....

2008-07-10T19:41:00.000-04:00

For those who do not know, we started a KAL on Ravelry but will also be starting the same KAL on Weds Night Purling Petal's Guild.

Here is a pic of one of the Ravelry Gal's KAL already in progress....How awesome is that??!! So, everyone interested, choose your yarn and let's get started...Remember...Keep Those Needles Clicking!!!

New Items...

2008-07-02T14:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics of a few new items available at AKG. The first is a Caron Yarn...SPA...it is a lovely Silky Bamboo, 250 yds lite yarn. Also another new Caron is Country, the softest Merino Wool ever, a ww at 185 yds. Both yarns are Washable and Dryable. Next up is a fabulous Silk and Merino Blend by Yarns Northwest, a lite ww skein with 120 yds, handwash only. Check out Mona the Moose's AKG Designed Cowl. Pattern or Kits available. Lastly...Due in this month...Polar Knit...Knitting with Polar Fleece Yarn!!...Extra warm, soft, washable and cuddly...Chunky 55yd balls available in 6 colors.

There will be many more as Autumn approaches so check back offen. I do give my word, I will update more often than in the past...Again, Thanks for your loyality...It is very appreciated!

And remember...KEEP THOSE NEEDLES CLICKING.....

Ravelry...

2008-07-02T13:56:00.000-04:00

I do not know how many of you are involved with Ravelry. I joined last year but didn't do anything with it until recently. It is pretty darn cool, I must say. I have joined a few different groups and we actually started our own...A Knitter's Garden...and we are planning a Knit-Along. Stop by www.ravelry.com for those of you who may be interested.

The buttons above are the groups I have joined, again, check 'em out.

Happy July...

2008-07-02T13:35:00.000-04:00

Hello All, Sorry to have been away so long...lots going on. The Blow-Out Summer Sale was a huge Success...Thank You all who took advantage of the savings. Here are a few snaps of the shop before and after the sale day. Thanks always to my PR Gal Friday!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS...

2008-05-20T14:23:00.000-04:00

AND HERE THEY ARE...BETSY, KELLY, TERRY, VICKIE AND CHERYL

NH SHEEP AND WOOL ENTREE...for the SHEEP TO SHAWL CONTEST...
AND THE WINNERS ARE OUR VERY OWN ISLAND POND SPINNERS!!!!!!!!!
We are all so proud of you gals. Great job done by all!!!!

Look who's living in our Dining Room...

2008-05-16T11:04:00.000-04:00

Here's a look at our 12 baby chicks...they are 4 weeks old this Saturday. Can you see the difference in their size?? They are growing like crazy and noisey as all get out!! But we are loving them...Angus and Luke included!!

ISE6...Gift from Swapee...

2008-05-16T10:31:00.000-04:00

Look at the beautiful gifts my International Scarf Exchange Swapee sent to me from Taiwan!! I was so blown away yesterday when I received a package from her. I had this horrid thought..."She hates my Alpaca scarf and is returning it!!!!!" Couldn't be farther from the truth! Pheew...May received her package last week and loved the scarf and all the goodies I sent along with it.
Back to her gift to me...
The beautiful blouse is on display in my shop,as are all her gifts, the color is so amazing. May also included a lovely card, postcard, a tatted Doily, a "Good Luck" charm and bookmark. And what my family loved the most, Collectable Cards from 7 Eleven in Taiwan!!! My husband thought that was so terrific...Thanks again and again to you May...you made us all smile!!!!!!

On the otherside...I am waiting for my scarf to arrive. I am sure it is on it's way...another surprise for another day...I will keep you posted!!! This is so exciting...you should all experience a SWAP atleast once...there are plenty out there, just google...swaps...I am sure something will pop up to interest you.

Shearing Done...

2008-04-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

Oh My God...Wait till you see the girls...they were shorn yesterday. As soon as one of my girls comes home, I will snap a few pics and post them...What a hoot...Harriet is so tiny...she looks like a little Lamb! Nothing like the pic above!
As the time approached, Josie, the horned and fresh one, was such a lady!! Took me totally by surprise. Just stayed put and let James shear her completely. And I think enjoyed every minute!
Now, Harriet on the other hand, who is such a LADY, calm, friendly, never jumpy...Would not stay still, tried to jump up and thrash around. I ended up on the ground with her to hold her head and whisper sweet nothings in her ear! She still wouldn't stay still, jumped and got a nasty nick! That's why I pay someone to shear them for me...I have no strength or stamina to stay crouched down on the ground for more than say...10 to 15 minutes...Poor James was in that position for -2 hours! Youth!!
Well I have some beautiful fleece...I am trying to decide whether to make a trip to Friend's Folly again or bring fleece to a mill here in NH...I'd like to keep the business here...we'll see. Bye for now until pics are ready...

NABY Specials...

2008-03-07T15:58:00.000-05:00

We are into our 3rd Rotation of my NABY Weekly Specials...Things are going great!Try to stop by and take advantage of a 15% discount on specific items each week...Hope to see you here...Doesn't this sheep look like Harriet?? In my spare time I have taught Her how to knit!! What a winter...Can you say..."Cabin Fever?"

ROTATING WEEKLY SPECIALS.......NABY

2008-02-17T09:45:00.000-05:00

You ask...What the heck is NABY...Needles...Accessories...Books...Yarn...
The same week each month, the same group of items are on special...
FIRST WEEK OF EACH MONTH...Needles... when you purchase any in stock needles, you will recieve a 15% discount.
SECOND WEEK OF EACH MONTH...Accessories...All instock accessories, 15% discount.
THIRD WEEK OF EACH MONTH...Books...My books are already discounted but I will deduct an additional 15%.
and lastly...
FOURTH WEEK OF EACH MONTH...Yarn...This is where it gets tricky...NO SPECIALTY YARNS are included in this special. By Specialty Yarns I mean, Handspun (Sarah or Nancy's), Local (Sallie's Fen or Riverslea) or My Flock's Yarn. All other yarns instock will recieve a 15% discount off the retail price of that particular yarn. All yarns at the "Out The Door Sale" are already discounted to the MAX...

To start...we are going into the third week of February...so this week's Special is "B"...books...From February 20th thru 23rd...15% off any instock book...

Hope you take advantage of these savings...Stop by and Look around...

Happy February...

2008-02-07T15:10:00.000-05:00

I know, it's been forever since I posted anything...Shame on me...Between holidays, work, animal care and just the holiday blues...it's been rough...But we are all back on track...Everyone is Healthy, Happy and tired of Shoveling...How 'bout you!?!

Let's see...updates...My WebPages should be up and working sometime next week...I do promise to keep you informed! It took 3 1/2 hours and a super technician, Mike, but I think we have things on the right road, finally.

At Christmas, the Historical Society of Chester sponsored a "Front Door Contest". Of course, you know I had to enter...Well, low and behold...I won 3rd Place! I already have some great ideas for next year's door.

The most exciting and newest to the shop...I have finished processing my girls wool and I decided to share...I have put up 100 yard skeins of both yarns. Harriet, our Brown/Black Shetland, her wool is so soft, I am pleasantly pleased. Josie, our Jacob sheep, Bonnie and Gracie, our Angora bunnies, have been blended into the most wonderful yarn. It is a 80/20 blend, the "Halo" blooms as you work it. So far my own socks and mittens are "Wonderous". I hope Mary and Raven are loving theirs, too.

Right now I have 3 skeins of each with more to come, they are a steal at $15. I just have to share the wealth!

The Sheep will be shorn again this March/April...so there will be more to come.

Well, it's great to be back...I hope to find the time to be here more often...please, stay tuned...J

Web Site Update

2007-11-12T21:24:00.000-05:00

Hello all, Thank you for all the calls and e-mails telling me about my website problems. Yes, it is down, No it is not fixed yet. I was on the phone to California for 45 minutes this morning, no results! I have to "Give them 24 to 48 hours to find the problem" How much longer to "FIX" the problem? Computers are wonderful...

Newest Group Project...

2007-10-29T13:12:00.000-04:00

The fires in California are a horrific event unfolding before our eyes. Here we are on the East Coast helpless...You may ask...How can we be useful? Let's put our needles together and knit/crochet squares/blankets for these fellow Americans, some who have lost everything. We can wrap them in a hug and blanket.
Here is what one woman is doing...www.sandiegowildfireblankets.blogspot.com/ Check out her blog and you will get the picture.
I am making squares,#8 needles with WW yarn, CO 32 sts, knit to 8", they should be 8" square. I am knitting,collecting from anyone who wants to participate and as with the Daduza Dolls, A Knitter's Garden will pick up the cost to ship them out to Sandie in California. Let's help make a difference...

Workshops...

2007-09-26T15:09:00.000-04:00

As always, I love to hold workshops. Any requests, suggestion, please direct them to me by way of e-mail, jmlm157@msn.com or telephone, 603-887-8550. I will be happy to accommodate. I am working on a few requests now, as soon as I have more info, I'll let you know...Thanks, Joanne

NEW ARRIVAL TABLE...

2007-09-26T14:39:00.000-04:00

As you enter the door, a table to your right will have "New Items" for the month.

Our arrivals this month are...

All Natural/Local Sallie's Fen 100% Alpaca yarn. Five natural colors, 2oz. skeins at 150yds/ $12.

Get ready for "Winter's Snow and Wind" Great yarn for hats, mittens and slippers
"Wool" and "Wool/Silk" Closeout Specials
100% Wool or Wool/Silk Blends 3.5 to 4 oz skeins Various Colors...
$8.50 while supply lasts

Another New Addition to the Garden..."Seacoast Handpainted Yarns"
"PANDA" A great Merino, Bamboo and Nylon blend...400yds/7sts=1"/$22
"SUPERWASH" Sock Yarn...100% Merino/560yds/7sts=1"/$25

I received quite a deal so I will pass it on to you..."REYNOLD'S" Wool/Silk Combo available in 12 colors...550yds per bag at $6

"Designs by Judith" patterns are now available, various sweater, scarves and afghan patterns have arrived. Waiting on an order from "Heart String Designs"

A selection of "ZECCA" and Ironstone Ceramic Buttons,
Felted Cases for your Circular Needles or Crochet Hooks,
and the ever favorite "Perpetual Knit Stitch Calendars" are all here for your viewing.

Let's start off the Winter Season with new yarns, patterns and many ideas...I look forward to seeing and helping you all, new and well established customers.

NEW SEASON HOURS...

2007-09-26T14:29:00.000-04:00

Autumn is here are so are new shop hours...

As of September 26th, A Knitter's Garden will be open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. With the exception of two Saturdays, October 6th, NH Sheep and Wool and October 20 th, NY Sheep and Wool in Rhinebeck, NY. I will be attending both Fiber Festivals. Check back to see what goodies I bring back...

I am working on presenting a Finishing Workshop and a Beaded Christmas Ornament Workshop...stay tuned for more info...

Update...

2007-08-20T14:16:00.000-04:00

FYI, the Travel Guide covers have been sent back and I am awaiting the new copies. When I have them in my hot little hands, I'll let you know...Thanks for returning the covers so speedily...

RECALL......

2007-08-09T20:55:00.000-04:00

Anyone who purchased a Travel Guide from my shop, please call me. The company is recalling ALL books. The binding is inferior, with use the books can fall apart. The publisher is replacing ALL issues, free of charge. I need your front cover to return for new books.

Continental Knitting Workshop...

2007-08-09T20:38:00.000-04:00

Changes in day and time for Workshop...

I have been asked by a few knitters to teach a workshop in Continental Knitting. I am planning a class on Saturday, September 15th, from 12 to 2...the Workshop will be $20, supplies needed, a pair of straight #8 needles and scrap yarn, ww preferred. Please let me know if you are interested in attending.

It has been difficult planning this class. We aren't all available the same day/ times. This seemed to work for the majority interested. Please call by September 10 to register. 603-887-8550 Thanks and I hope to see you soon...Joanne

Looking for a new home...

2007-07-19T19:21:00.000-04:00

We have two lovely Parakeets living in our dinning room. A male, Theo and a female, Paree'. As much as I love them and all their tweets, I need the space for other things...They live in a beautiful cage modeled after a house, complete with shutters, front door and chimney! Do you think you'd like them to live with you? If you are interested, please call me at 603-887-8550.

2007-07-19T19:20:00.000-04:00

I am truly excited about the newest...
"KNITTER'S TRAVEL GUIDE" 2007-2008
It is a great source for travelers near and far. Yarn shops all over the United States are listed by state. "A Knitter's Garden" is #3 on the New Hampshire pages. I have 5 issues of the book left...selling for $12.00...Stop by and grab one before they're gone...

DDofS Swap Contest #2...

2007-07-19T19:19:00.000-04:00

The Dog Days of Summer Dish Cloth Swap...Contest 2
These are the instructions we were given...
Make a post, include photo, of favorite handmade item that you use or wear.
AND
Include a link to something you have seen on a fellow swappers blog that yu may like to make.
Well, the dresses above are gifts that I have made for cousins babies...The green is for 5 month old Zoe, the middle pastel is for 1 year old Gianna and the third is a sample, knitted in Ticker Tape ribbon yarn, size 12 months, for my shop.
AND
What I'd love to make is the Monica top posted on Knitty and on Pheeya D.'s blog. www.pheeya.blogspot.com Scroll way down, her niece is modeling it, so cute, I just love it! Great job!

Duduza Dolls for Africa...

2007-07-19T19:16:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest photo of our overflowing basket of the cutest Duduza Dolls ever created...There are 25 in all and it is only July! We have some with beads or earrings, some with corn-row hair, some with dreadlocks! Some in skirts, others in pants. My knitting friends are so creative.
I am so pleased and moved at all the dolls we have collected. I do believe we are going to make a group of parentless children very happy!!! I am so proud of all my knitters...Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart!!
I will continue to collect dolls throughout August. They will be shipped to Vermont to the CHABHA Charity and then off to Rowanda and waiting arms to hug each and every one!

E

Answer to the questions...

2007-07-02T20:40:00.000-04:00

My button on the top of the page with the adirondike chair, the summer drink and our yarn garden...My very talented oldest daughter, Laura, designed that for me. I wanted to put it on my business cards, stationery, labels...everything associated with A Knitter's Garden but we couldn't shrink it down enough and keep the details. It changed the integratity of the art work as a whole. Do not ask me how but I managed to transfer it on my blog...I am so proud...

Buttons...

2007-06-30T09:06:00.000-04:00

Check it out...I figured out how to add Buttons ALL BY MYSELF...and alot of time wasted trying!!!

...Dog Days of Summer

2007-06-28T23:21:00.001-04:00

Here is the Questionaire for the "Dog Days Of Summer" Swap...Round 2...

1. Do you knit, or crochet, or do both? How long have you been knitting\crocheting?
I do both, I love to knit but I like to crochet. I learned to knit first, maybe around 8 or 10. Crocheting came next...I had great shawls, rugs and blankets for my Barbies!
2. Have you knit dishcloths or dishtowels before?
Yes, I had made many facecloths, dishcloths and potholders (two cloths sewn tog), they are great!
3. What are your favorite cotton yarns? Is there a cotton or linen you’ve been dying to try but have not?
My favorite is TLC Cotton Plus, Halcyon's Casco Bay and Lambs Pride Cotton Fleece.
There are many out there I haven't tried and would love to.
4. Are there any cotton yarns you don’t enjoy knitting with?
Yes, I do not like to knit with Sugar and Cream, it is very stiff. But I must say, it is great for an exfoliant in the shower...Thank you Maria!
5. What type of needle do you prefer using? (Metal/Wood/Plastic)
It truly depends on what yarn you are using. I prefer Bamboo first but I love Brysun, they are a nylon. Then of course, Addi Turbos
6. What other projects do you enjoy knitting or crocheting?
I love making baby clothes and doll clothes. They are small take-along items. Plus you use small amounts of yarn so you can go for the more expensive for trimmings etc. I have also started to make "SOAP CADDIES" for handmade soap I sell in my shop, what better addition but a caddy to put the soap in!! Swapper Maria from my first swap made one for me...I love it! Great idea, I stole it!
7. Do you have other hobbies or enjoy other kinds of crafting?
I love to read, I borrow "Books on Tape" from my library. Read and knit...perfection! I also enjoy container gardening. We have always had a small vegatable garden but lately, my knees do not want to bend and my back hurts when weeding, so Container Gardening is the answer. I love house plants and flowers, I was a floral designer before I opened my yarn shop.
8. What kind of treats do you like? Chocolate? Candies? Nuts?
Popcorn, pretzels, m&m's, cashews and almonds...sweet and salty together! Yum...
9. What colors are your kitchen and bath decorated in, if any?
Kitchen, Gray and Red...Bath...Wisteria and Navy
10. What are your favorite colors and what colors do you dislike?
My favorite is greens and blues...least fav black
11. Do you drink coffee? Tea? Other beverages? I love my COFFEE, Gevalia coffee club is wonderful!
12. Do you have any kids (human or pet variety!)?
We have a ton...2 dogs, 2 parakeets, 2 sheep, 11 chickens, 2 angora bunnies, 2 daughters and 1 husband...quite the crew!
13. Do you have any allergies?
Penicillin...please do not send any!!
Please share 3 tidbits about yourself that you think your pal and other swappers might find odd or interesting.
We own a 217 year old farmhouse in southern NH, 18 months ago I opened a yarn shop in the front parlor. It has been great fun, a dream come true.
I told you all about my animals. My husband wants more sheep. We went to the local MSPCA and found 2 up for adoption...maybe?
I swore I would not do this blogging and swapping stuff...This is my second and I'm loving it!!!

Well, I guess that should do it for now...I am going to try to figure out how to put "buttons" on my blog...can't seem to do it...Tomorrow is another day...J

Spring Into Summer Swap...

2007-06-24T19:32:00.000-04:00

Here is my Spoilers Loot...Check it out...Yarn..Candy.."Trailer" Dishcloth..Candy..Pattern..Candy..Duduza Doll..Candy..Soaps and a Soap Caddy for the shower..Candy..My Swapper done me good! Love it all and I Thank You Maria, we will keep in touch...I do not know yet what I am going to fashion into the Blue Mission Cotton..You'll be the first I show! Shannon, you touched me with your words and pics of your loot, so Glad you enjoyed...You can stalk me anytime! We will keep in touch too!

I never win anything, I am just not lucky like that. I have purchased lottery tickets, raffles tickets, been a Good Doobie but I never seem to have the lucky number. Devon posted a little Contest,I answered all questions correctly...Low and Behold... I won the booty...A Skein of Debbie Bliss Cotton in my fav green and a Book of Monogramed Notepaper...Thank you so much Devon!...I found a beautiful "Vineyard" pattern, all leaves at different angles, I am going to knit and build into a pillow! I'll post it one day...

Swing into Summer Dish Cloth Swap...

2007-06-19T10:20:00.000-04:00

**Well, most of the Swappers have their packages in the mail and the rest are waiting patiencely for their spoiling. My Swappee was "a little" pleased with her package, go to www.dishclothexchange.blogspot.com and check out Shannon's blog. I looked at a few other blogs, everyone has been so generous with their "Spoiling" What fun! Everyone should try a swap at least once!
**This Dish Cloth Group is doing it all over again. Interested? Rush on over to sign on...same address as above, just click on join...all the rules are very well explained...I am going to sign up for this one again!!! Sign up starts June 20th, don't wait to long to decide!!! You won't be sorry!
**I really liked this swap for one main reason...the commitment wasn't difficult, a dishcloth is easy and fast to make when your life is as crazy as mine. Besides they are fun to make 'cause there are so many cool patterns. Have you ever searched for patterns? There are millions out there, one prettier than the next! Try it, you'll understand why I did it. Plus, they are GREAT summer projects...lots of great cottons and patterns out there...Send me an e-mail, I am going to start selling on-line. I am thinking of putting kits tog for Dishcloths for SWAPPERS and SWAPPEES, Let me know what you think or may be interested in, I'd truly appreciate it...
**I joined another swap, "Dish Rag Tag Swap", alittle different rules but sounds like great fun. Sorry, all full...over 200 signed up!! I'll keep you informed.

My First Pictures!!

2007-06-05T18:06:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pics of A Knitter's Garden.

Here is our animal family!

Harriet and Josie are our sheep (before they have been sheared). New pictures coming.

Bonnie and Gracie, our angora bunnies, are six months old and have had one shearing.

Now meet Luke, the newest member of our family. We think he's 10 weeks old and a yellow lab mix.

Summer Hour Schedule...

2007-05-29T11:10:00.000-04:00

Hello and Welcome to Summer...
There will be changes to my hours of operation for the Summer Months...The shop will be closed M-T and W...all day...if you need something, please call first, if I am home, I will gladly open the door. Regular Hours are to be Thur-Fri-Sat 10 am to 4 pm...if Sat is quiet, I will close at noon and retire to camp for the weekend. Those are the plans at present. As you all know, we have lots of animals, so I can not be away for long! They need me and...I need them!
These changes will take effect as of June 1 through August 30

Should anyone have a KNITTING EMERGENCY...DO NOT PANICK, take a couple of deep cleansing breaths, sit down near the phone and slowly dial my number, should I be home, I will gladly administer KNITTING FIRST AID...Never fear, I am but a phone call away (although, I no longer make house calls)

Suggestions for small, uncumbersome lap projects... I have put together a few bags with yarn and directions for the Duduza Dolls. And for a Special Friend, Brittany M, I have made a Duduza pattern in Crocheting! Also kits are available for American Doll Clothes, New Baby Hatw/Socks, lots of Cotton and patterns for washcloths/ dishcloths and of course, Granny Square Afghans, make the squares in the warm weather and sew them together during the cooler temps. Sock yarns and a few new Sock books.
All are alternatives to our regular heavy knitting projects.

I hope you all have wonderful and safe Summer Months...Joanne

Scramble Contest...

2007-05-24T23:03:00.000-04:00

Well Ladies,
The results are in and there are two winners...Nichole and Aimee. Both had all the correct answers and the sentence at the bottom. Thank you for participating. I hope everyone who did the puzzle enjoyed exercising your brains with knit/crochet knowledge. I will have your prizes ready next week, you may stop by anytime after Monday. The shop will be closed Sunday and Monday due to the long weekend, I need some chill-time at camp in front of a roaring fire toasting marshmellows and swatting mosquitoes...and knitting of course!

I must Thank everyone for all the Duduza Dolls...they are awesome and so are you! Each one with it's own little personality. I will diffinately take pics and post them...wait 'til you see...

Everyone...Have a great long weekend and be safe...Seatbelts and no drinking and driving!!! It's the MOTHER in me...J

I've been Tagged...

2007-05-18T19:26:00.000-04:00

Okay, bear with me, I do not know how this works or what it is all about but I am game and here goes...
So, this is how it works:
Each person tagged gives 7 random facts about themselves. Those tagged need to write on their own blog those 7 facts as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag 7 others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and to read your blog.
Here are my 7 Facts...please do not hold any of these against me...I am only human!!!
1. I love to eat M&M's and chips at the same time.
2. I kissed my sheep, Josie, on the nose.
3. I never eat sauce from a jar.
4. I think Tom Selleck is still a hunk!!
5. I have never watched American Idol or any reality TV.
6. I Love, Love, Love to Knit.
7. I am living my dreams...Own a farmhouse w/animals and a yarn shop to boot!!

Now, my 7 Taggees are:
Shannon S
Cheryl
Janine
Ericka
Kim
Jennifer
Lisa

Okay Girls...let it rip...J

My Pal...

2007-05-10T07:09:00.000-04:00

Hello Pal,
Thank you for your note and I truly look forward to all this fun! What do you think of the Duduza Doll? Thanks for attempting one, such easy and fast knitting. Did you go on the site and watch the video, it is inspiring. We have about 12 waiting for their stuffing! Again, Thanks...have a wonderful day...Joanne

A Contest I get to participate in...

2007-05-10T06:41:00.000-04:00

I have joined a Dish Cloth Swap and part of the fun are these little contests.

So here are the questions and answers to mine...
1. What is one baked item you love to bake or buy and why.
I love to make "Swedish Apple Pie" It is the easiest recipe, no crust, just a batter consisting of 4 ingredients, your sliced apples and a pie plate!

2. What is one item you love to knit and why.
I love making doll or baby clothes. They are a small lap project, work up fast and are so adorable. And you can fool around with small amounts of funky yarns to change things around. Try it you'll see what I mean!

3. Favorite outdoor activity and why.
We have a trailer at a seasonal campground. We are only weekend campers, have been there 12 years and have made so many awesome friends that we only see at camp. So we get together, watch the guys play horseshoes, go for walks in the woods or by the lake and just enjoy being outside most of the day and night. Last year I taught 5- 13 yr olds to knit! Can't wait to see how they have done over the winter.

4. Favorite and why to relax.
Either at home on the porch in my favorite rocking chair knitting and watching the cars drive by. Or at camp by a roaring fire, just staring into it, it is soooooo relaxing!

I just realized, I am looking forward to going up there this weekend...Catch ya later

Up for the Challenge...

2007-05-06T13:50:00.000-04:00

This is the "Spring Into Summer" Dishcloth Swap I have joined. Sounds like fun!!
www.dishclothexchange.blogspot.com check it out!
Yes, a first for me. I have heard so many knitters speak of "Swaps". They sound like fun and this particular swap is not intimidating for me. I have been afraid to make the commitment in the past, life gets in the way...Now I feel up for the challenge. I am really looking forward to participating...Here goes with the Questionnaire...

1. When did you learn to knit? Who taught you? I learned when I was about 8 or 10, my maternal Nana.
2. What was your very first completed object? A shawl for my Barbie. Your most recent? So many...Duduza Dolls...scroll down my blog for info!

3. What was the very first thing you sent to the frog pond? Sorry, don't remember the first but the latest was a baby blanket, three times! Can't seem to find just the right stitch---follow a pattern you say??!!
4. What is currently on the needles for you? Summer top for ME in "Breeze" Cotton blend, 18" doll clothes for a class I am teaching and again, Duduza Dolls.

5. What types of needles do you enjoy working with? I usually use Addi's, Clover or Bryspun. What have you tried and hated? The old style Aluminum, way to slick for me and cold in the winter!
6. Have you knit dishcloths before? Yes, many. What was your favorite one? For mindless knitting, Grandma's Favorite, I have even made GIANT ones as afghans and baby blankets...great basic pattern
Least favorite? Haven't found one yet
7. Do you use homemade dishcloths or face cloths yourself, or give them as gifts, or both? All of the above.
8. What are your favorite and least favorite scents? I LOVE Lilac, Lily of the Valley (For your body, such as soap/lotion/etc)Least, Lavender
9. What are your favorite colors? Greens and blues usually, I am in the process of painting our bathroom and I chose...Wisteria Mist, lovely and a new fav
10. What colors (if any) are your bathroom and kitchen decorated in? Bathroom--Wisteria with Navy accessories, Kitchen Grey walls, Red accessories.
11. What other hobbies and crafts do you enjoy? We live in a rural area and we have animals: chickens, sheep, dog, bunnies and parakeets, I love caring for them, I was a Floral Designer before I opened my yarn shop, hence my shop name,A Knitter's Garden, I love flowers and gardening.
12. Chocolate: Dark? White? Milk? Ew? Again, all of the above!!
13. Do you like salty treats? What kinds? Yes, Pecans, pistachios, chips, Chocolate covered pretzels!
14. If you could go anywhere in the world for one day and spend the day any way you wanted, where would you go and what would you do? I'd love to visit England, Ireland, Scotland, tour all the lovely old Castles and Cathedrals.
15. Do you have any allergies? (Yarns, foods, etc. that might impact what your pal can send) No penicillin please!! Ha Ha

Well, I guess I have answered all the questions...Let the Games Begin...Joanne

Knitting Bag Contents...

2007-05-03T12:18:00.000-04:00

Since I do not drive anymore(eye problems), while traveling, long or short distances, I always knit to my destination. Have you ever forgotten scissors, something to write on, better yet, a PEN?! Very annoying. Well, here is my list of everything I carry in my knitting bag...Hope it helps you out...

Blunt end, large eye sewing needle
Crochet Hook...to catch stray/drop stitch
"Extra" Needles in size of Current Project...dropped one between seats while looking out window at something interesting! We've ALL been there.
Needle Gauge
Pencil/Paper/Notebook
Photocopy of Current Project Pattern
Safety Pins
Scissors
Stitch Holders
Stitch Markers
Tape Measure and a Bottle of Water, you never know when you need a swig!

I also keep a list of all my needle/hook sizes handy. Again, you may whizz by a Yarn Shop, have to stop and check things out. You may see needles you think you NEED to have?! Safety Precaution! At my May Sale, I will have a grid-sheet printed, small enough to slide on your bag or tape into a notebook. It just may be helpful.

Watch your mail for my May Sale Flyer and info on my "Surprise Prize"...until May 19th...J

MAY SPECIAL...

2007-04-30T13:08:00.000-04:00

Hello,Fellow Knitters...
The special for May is to be...Purchase a Book or Pattern and recieve 20% off on the purchase of the yarn to complete that project. Lots of new books and pamphets have arrived, stop by and check them out...

DUDUZA (comfort) DOLLS

2007-04-26T19:40:00.000-04:00

As many of you know by my e-mails, last week I was watching Fox TV and they interviewed a woman who is very involved with CHABHA..Children Affected By HIVAIDS...There are thousands of parentless children in Rwanda and other African countries. These children have no change of clothes, no shoes, no toys. The group wanted to make a difference, they knitted dolls, counted 219, thought it was plenty, brought them over and were so overwhelmed by the response of the children. They loved, hugged and cried for these dolls but there was not enough to go around. The group returned to the states and is requesting...If you can knit, Please, follow these simple instructions and create this much needed "Lovey" in American, "Duduza" in African.
I have much donated yarns, you do not need a large amount but lots of different colors and textures to make them cheerful and fun. Here are two sites where you can see the dolls, retrieve the pattern and read for yourself the articles...www.chabha.org and also www.creativestitchonline.com/pattern
When we have collected a good sized box full, A Knitter's Garden will pay to ship the box to Vermont. I will also have a collection jar for monetary donations to send along as well. Please help me make a difference....J