Sage Yarn Blog

Hexagons

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 03:27:00 +0000

Hexagons… generic, not Norah’s

This first one is the one I prefer & would probably knit
From outside-in
Figure out your CO by your gauge – your sts/in multiplied by 18 (for instance 5 sts/in x 18=90 CO)
Join, knit one round
Mark 6 evenly spaced points
Knit the next round, decreasing 2 stitches at each marked point. You can “design” some here by picking your fav decrease combo.

I did… CO 90, marked every 15th stitch with a removable marker, k to within one stitch of this st. and did a centered double decrease – slip 2 stitches knitwise together, k1, pass slipped stitches over)

K2 rounds

Continue to decrease until you hit the center (6 sts remain) – be sure to put 2 even rounds in between decrease rounds to keep it flat.

From the center-out
CO 6 sts, join, knit one round
*K1, yo, repeat from * around
K 2 rounds *k1, (k1, yo, k1) in the same st. repeat from * around
K2 rounds
K2, *yo, k1, yo, k3, repeat from * around ending with a k1 instead of a k3
K2 rounds
K3, *yo, k1, yo, k5, repeat from * around ending with a k2 instead of a k5

Repeat yarn over round, adding 2 stitches in between the (yo, k1, yo) group each round (for instance the next round would have *yo, k1, yo, k7 repeat * around…
You can “design” some by replacing the YOs with your favorite increase method
I marked the k1 “point” stitch with a removable marker in the first round or two so I wouldn’t mess up
Knit 2 rounds in between each increase round to keep the hexagon flat
Stop when you have your sts/in x 3 in between the points.

Something to note – my chunky inside-out hexagon with the yarnovers didn’t block pointy. I think it was the chunky yarn on size 8DPNs :-D

If anyone finds corrections in here let me know via PM and I’ll edit it!

Turkey Coma Remedy

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:17:00 +0000

We have now entered... the *holiday zone*.... do-do, do-do, do-do, do-do

Thanksgiving Day has passed and while we're still basking in the warm fuzzy glow of feeling so loved we're thinking ahead to what to do for those loved ones for the holidays. What do you pick? Something sturdy and useful? Something beautiful and delicate? Something funny and off-the wall? Here are a few ideas to inspire you!

Just for fun - if you click on the ravelry link for these patterns, you can find photos of everyone else's projects! click on the "projects" tab at the top of the pattern listing

A starry crocheted scarf designed by Kristen TenDyke

Princess Star Motif Scarf
ravelry link
Make this one in Classic Elite Summer Set

A slouchy knit beret designed by Melissa LaBarre

A Slouch For All Seasons
ravelry link
Make this one in Classic Elite Classic Silk

A slightly-more-than-basic scarf from Berroco

Almost Garter Scarf
ravelry link
Make this one in Ultra Alpaca Light

A crocheted apple cozy or coffee mug cozy

designed by Teresa Grant (pdf downloads for $3.50)
Adorable Apple Cozy
ravelry link
Mighty Mug Cozy
ravelry link
make these in Plymouth Fantasy Naturale

A simple lace pattern, zig-zag scarf from Veronik Avery

Lace Ribbon Scarf
ravelry link
Make this one in Classic Elite Alpaca Sox

An easy pincushion, straight from your mother's sewing basket

Knitted Pin Cushion
ravelry link
Make this one in Plymouth Galway

An easy, garter stitch baby sweater from Berroco

Pie Baby Set
ravelry link
Make this one in Berroco Pure Merino

Knitted yoga socks from Plymouth

Yoga Socks
ravelry link
Make this one in Plymouth Oceanside Organic

Drawstring bags from Plymouth

Bags in 2 sizes
ravelry link
Make this one in Plymouth Mulberry Merino

Crocheted aran tote bag designed by Celeste Young

Bobbling Along Aran Tote
ravelry link
Make this one in Berroco Ultra Alpaca

Silly stuff!

Knitted Spam - Ravelry link only
Knitted Dalek - Extermiknit!
Crocheted Mario Mushrooms - Mario Brothers Mushrooms
Knitted Lobster - Toy Lobster Pattern

Softy Dog Bone Toy - Fetch!
Catnip Bunny Toy - Ravelry Link

There's something out there for everyone on your list! What fun patterns have you found?

Not So Itty-Bitty

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 14:19:00 +0000

How about some not-so-itty-bitty projects? I get to talk to a lot of people and hear what they're making as presents for others. Here are some shop favorites, to give you some ideas for something just a bit different. If you've been in the shop recently, you may already know these well!

The Baby Alpaca Grande Vest/Shrug - a Plymouth Yarn Company Leaflet

So infamous here at Sage we've memorized the pattern number and reorder it at every opportunity! Though this one looks fancy when finished, it is actually just knitted rectangle that is sewn together into a semi-circular shrug. Baby Alpaca Grande comes in solids, tweeds and paints.

Tunisian Crochet Entrelac Hat - designed by Josh McKiernan

I'm halfway through my hat from the class we had last weekend. It's so much fun! And it's working up faster than a knit hat, for sure. I also want to use the same pattern to make a circular bag in some crazy colors. Josh's written pattern can be accessed via ravelry. You can use a variety of yarns for this one; it calls for light fingering but I'm using a worsted (Ultra Alpaca).

Nimbus - designed by the Berroco Design team

This is really a perfect sweater. It is fashion-forward without being too weird or crazy. It is knit in a bulky but light wool (Peruvia Quick) that holds up to wear and looks beautiful. You get to pick one awesome button to showcase. And the pattern is FREE! I have knit 4 of them so far.

City Girl Cap - designed by Celeste Young

When I first met Celeste and she told me she had designed this hat I was SO impressed! It's very stylish and cozy and works up really quickly. As with any other top-down hat, you can adjust size as you go for a perfect fit. I made this one up in Encore Tweed, but any other worsted weight yarn would be wonderful (Galway Worsted, Ultra Alpaca, Comfort Worsted, etc.). She also has a wonderful tote bag pattern that is next on my crochet list. Both patterns are available for free as Ravelry downloads.

Knitted Bunny Toy - a Plymouth Yarn Company leaflet

This little bunny has been hopping around the store for a year now. We've made it in all different yarns - some practical yarn for little kids and some fun yarn for friends. This is the perfect project for those times when you don't have enough time to knit a blanket and aren't sure what size sweater to make! These two buns were made by Carol using Comfort worsted.

Remember to have FUN! Let me know if you have any questions - info@sageyarn.com, or 508-457-9513

Itty Bitty Holiday Projects

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:38:00 +0000

Starting tonight we're adding a Friday night knit/crochet night to the line up! I decided to call it "Itty Bitty Holiday Projects" in an effort to keep us motivated to keep working on those projects that just *need* to get done. So from 5:30-7:30 we'll be cozied up in the Sage Yarn classroom, working away on whatever we need to work on.

To get into the spirit this year we Sage kids are making lots of "mini" things... starting with these!

Mini Mittens

This clever mini mitten is a free pattern from the people at WEBS in promotion of their Valley Yarns. I used scraps of Encore DK from the leftovers pile and size 6 needles.

I picture these little mittens decorating a wreath or tree, or attached with a bow to a present or tied around a gift card. They also seem just the right size for an American Girl Doll's hands ;)
I found this pattern by searching ravelry's patterns for "ornament" - here is the ravelry entry for the pattern. You can find all sorts of mini things using the pattern search. Here, I found you some mini ice skates!These are crocheted using just bits of scrap yarn, over a metal paperclip. SO fun!

Making your list

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:35:00 +0000

As we hit November and get closer to the holidays it seems that we yarn lovers start making lists in our heads. We have a mental inventory of who we've made stuff for and who we've missed... how much yarn we have at home and what needles or hooks match them. I make lists like crazy! Sometimes, even the act of making the list gets all of the clutter out of my brain and lets me relax and focus.

Given my own preference for lists, I encourage you to make some lists of our own. Clear out your head! Prioritize! Things will seem less overwhelming and you get the satisfaction of crossing things off every time something is completed.

My list of lists:
small projects - gift tags, ornaments, flower pins, gift card holders, potholder, dishcloth, etc.
medium projects - fingerless gloves, cowls, hats, slippers, legwarmers, scarves, shawls, etc.
large projects - sweaters, shawls, blankets, socks, etc.
people - I list people on the left and a handful of possible projects for each on the right

When thinking about your handmade holiday gifts make sure you include yourself in the equation! Don't just think about what yarn, pattern you need but also ask yourself, "How much am I going to enjoy making this?" Is it worth it to you, to spend your valuable time working on a project you hate to get an end result that you love? Do you want to spend all of your time making one big thing or a split up your time across a dozen little things? Will this person appreciate the time I put into this gift? How upset will I be if the recipient doesn't like my gift? Will I love the meditative act of making the same thing over and over for everyone or will I be crazy-bored?

By considering these things before you even start you will be setting yourself up for a more enjoyable time working on your projects! The answers to these questions are personal and everyone you meet will have a different take on what they want to do. Stick to what is best for you and don't let anyone make you feel bad about what you choose - you're the designer of your happy holiday season!

You'll see many links to the projects that have caught my eye in the next few weeks. I wish I had time to make them all! I will live vicariously through you and the fun things that you make. (I anticipate a lot of my links will be to ravelry listings - if you're not already signed up for ravelry, it's a great resource for all yarn lovers.)

See you soon!

Jen

Patterns of the Month, October 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:01:00 +0000

Patterns of the Month October 2010

Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!

Reversible Cabled Wrap
from Vermont Fiber Designs

This wonderful pattern line doesn't get a lot of attention at our store and it really deserves highlighting! Clean and classic styles combined with clear instructions make Vermont Fiber Designs a shop favorite. This Reversible Cabled Wrap will get you into some cables, a reversible pattern technique and will keep you warm this fall and winter. Choose from 3 over-sized options and use your favorite worsted weight yarn.

Finished Measurements:
40, (44.5, 49, 53.5)" wide by 50, (54, 58, 62)" long
Yarn requirements:
1225, (1500, 1775, 2075) yards

Great yarn suggestions: Berroco Ultra Alpaca, Plymouth Galway, Queensland Rustic Tweed, Berroco Pure Merino

The Cottonwood Coat
from Oat Couture

How cozy would a bulky knitted coat be? This is the perfect pattern to try it out! A super-easy combination of stockinette and garter stitch keeps this pattern simple and stylish. It has pockets!! And choose from Bulky or Super Bulky gauges for speedy knitting.

Finished Measurements:
36, (40, 44, 48, 52, 56)" chest
Yarn requirements:
Bulky = 1450, (1600, 1725, 1890, 2025, 2150) yards at 14sts=4"
Super bulky = 1125, (1235, 1325, 1460, 1565, 1665) yards at 10 sts = 4"

Great yarn suggestions: Berroco Peruvia Quick, Galway Chunky, Reynolds Andean Alpaca Regal, Berroco Sundae

Stay warm through these crisp fall days! If you need anything, please stop by, give us a call (508-457-9513) or an email. We're here for you!

Fall Classes

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:09:00 +0000

Every week we have a dozen customers asking whether we offer classes. We do! This fall we're really stepping up our class selection and variety. We now have seven teachers scheduled in for fall classes. I am so excited about this and I hope you are also!

Back when I got back "in" to yarn, in college, I started out crocheting. My boss at work crocheted and I thought, "Hey, that's neat! I want to try that." A stitch dictionary brought me to a dozen crocheted scarves and a ridiculously heavy bobbled afghan for my sister. Then I picked up my knitting needles again. I wanted a scarf. And then a hat. And then socks. And then a sweater. And each thing I learned led to the next thing I *wanted* to learn.

This is my absolute FAVORITE thing about working with yarn. There is always something new to learn. Even when you think you know everything or have tried everything you stumble upon something different that you just need to try. This is what we hope to become for you, here at Sage. We want to be a place that not only inspires you, but also helps you acquire the skills you need to do anything you want to do. A "center for learning" seems too highfalutin' a phrase, but we hope with our humble little classroom, to become a conduit for the great information of the yarn world to pass through... from person to person, one yarn lover at a time.

Please give all of our new teachers a warm welcome this fall by signing up for your favorite class. They all have been writing patterns and instructions, making class samples and are really excited to be here! It's time try that project you've always been a bit nervous about :) You can view the calendar and class descriptions by clicking here, and you can sign up by giving the store a phone call at 508-457-9513.

Comfort Afghans Trunk Show

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:27:00 +0000

There are many times that we, as human beings in a 3 dimensional universe, simply cannot envision how a 2 dimensional photo of a project will actually look and feel in our hands. This is where our amazing Berroco sales rep comes in! Andra has knit and crocheted sample sizes of the designs from Comfort Knitting & Crochet Afghans so that we can be inspired (how lucky are we?!) They will be on display from August 11th to August 24th - come in and touch them before they're flying on their way to the next store on the list!

As the title suggests, this book features 27 knit patterns and 24 crochet patterns that use yarns from Berroco's Comfort line. They run the gamut from simple checkerboard and chevron to fair-isle and embellished afghans.

For our "Pattern" of the month sale this month we are featuring the patterns from this book.

For the month of August,
buy the book and/or the yarn to make a pattern in the book and
get 15% off of the purchase!

If we don't have your color in the quantity you need, we'll order it and honor your 15% off.

We stock Comfort Worsted in 31 colors and Comfort DK in 20 colors. If you don't see what you like be sure to ask about ordering.

Here are a few of my favorites from the book, but be sure to check out Berroco's full photo preview - and there are slideshows of both the knit and crochet patterns.

Huge Garment SALE!

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:04:00 +0000

We have a very special promotion going on over the next week - a garment SALE! We don't often put our garments on sale, since we prefer to keep them to show how the yarns knit up. Over the last few years we have accumulated boxes of garments from yarns or patterns that are now long discontinued. Now, we finally have enough to have a great big sale, and sent them up for you to browse through and try on!

Garments are marked at:

50%-75% off of the original value

This means that a sweater that cost $120 in yarn to make is now only $30!

These garments include things for adults and children - sweaters, cardigans, hats, scarves, shawls, bags/purses and even an afghan. Everything is either hand-wash or machine wash - no dry cleaning required. It's a great opportunity to buy a handmade item and stash it away for gift-giving season ;)

This sale will last from
Saturday, August 7th to Saturday August 14th.

Get there early to see the *good* stuff! (really, it's all good, but the most popular styles go first)

Free parking is available all along Main St or across the street from our store, at the park. Email or call if you have any questions! info@sageyarn.com phone: 508-457-9513

Our next big SALE!

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:37:00 +0000

Here on Main St every year we have a street fair on the first Wednesday after the 4th of July. Since the 4th was on a Sunday that means that the fair is *late* this year - on the 14th. Mark your calendar!

While I know it is a pain in the butt to drive down here in the middle of the week, even from across town, here are some reasons why you should stop by Sage Yarn for our street fair SALE!

Our sale starts on Monday, which means you can choose a time, ANY time between 9am on Monday and 5pm on Wednesday to come by for the sale. You don't have to brave the Wednesday crowds if you don't want to.
This is our biggest sale of the year, by far - larger discounts, more yarn on sale
Exclusive yarns - we pull out sale yarns that we don't have room for on the sales floor. You'll see very NICE but discontinued yarns from many yarn companies. You'll also see discontinued colors of current yarn lines such as Encore and Ultra Alpaca.
This is one of two sales a year that features $1, $2, and $3 grab bins - mixed types of yarns mostly in single balls or pairs, for sale at absolute clearance prices.
On fair day we will have some of the last few nice "gifts" on sale from when we were a combined gift and yarn store. This includes some Franz porcelain and a lot of Anne C. Ross glassware.
It is FUN! I know sometimes it stinks to get stuck in a crowd full of people you don't know... but here at Sage it's different. We all have a shared love of yarn and our shoppers frequently have very friendly and helpful conversations at our sales! People share ideas, tips and patterns with complete strangers. It always lifts my spirits.

Other details:
PARKING: On Monday and Tuesday you can park anywhere. There is parking available across the street at the park for those who don't want to parallel park on the street (I know I don't). There is also a very small amount of parking behind our building if you drive down Elm Arch Way. ON FAIR DAY - if you get here early you will be able to park in a parking lot near us. The fair starts at 10 but we open at 9. If you don't get here early you will find someplace to park but you will walk a few minutes to get here.
OTHER FAIR FUN: The fair typically features many booths of jewelry, pottery, quilts, baskets, flower arrangements, kids toys, stained glass, handmade soaps, and many other wonderful products. There is fair food which usually includes fried dough, lemonade, hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, etc. ALL OF THE STORES ON MAIN ST. ARE OPEN and usually offering discounts on many products.

Here is a link to our location on google maps.
Here is a link to driving directions to our store.
Here is our website if you want to browse our regular offerings.
Here is a link to email us if you have any questions whatsoever! We hope you'll stop by for some big SALE fun next week!

Patterns of the Month, July 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:38:00 +0000

It's July! If the weather wasn't any indication that summer is here, how about some summery knitting patterns?

Patterns of the Month July 2010

Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!

In our efforts to fill in the gap in patterns for "tweens" we found this beautiful pattern booklet by Louisa Harding. It also happens to feature a great yarn that we had purchased for cool summer knitwear!

Brighton is an oversized pullover that features a centered cable panel on a reverse stockinette body. It can be customized to your liking - plain collar and edgings or lacy edges with picot details. Albero is a cotton and viscose blend that has just a little bit of shine to it. It has a wonderful drape and isn't stiff at all. On the cotton-difficulty scale I would put this near the bottom - it won't hurt your hands to work with it and as long as you knit a gauge swatch there won't be any droopy surprises.

Recommended Ages: 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 years
**Actual chest size: 28", 32", 36", 39.75", 43.75", 46"
Yarn amounts: 6, 7, 7, 8, 9 balls of Albero for plain sweater, add 1 more ball for lacy picot version
Other yarn suggestions: Bebe Cotsoy, Bamboucle, Classic Silk, Summer Set

**When you look at the sizing for this pullover take note that there is 4 inches of ease built into each size. This kind of sizing is great for throwing on over a tank top or t-shirt after the sun sets. I could have used one last night while watching the 4th of July fireworks :) If you don't want so much room, you can make a smaller size and cut down the amount of yarn you purchase. As a 36" chest myself, I'd probably make a size 9-10.

Our next pattern of the month comes from The Mirasol Project and is high on my to-do list this summer. We have often featured Mirasol not only for its very high quality yarns and stylish designs, but also for its humanitarian efforts.

Bobo, a lacy vest, features very simple shaping and a common stitch pattern that would be great for a beginning lace knitter. There is no shaping to complicate things - the back and two fronts are large rectangles without any decreasing or increasing.

(I know she doesn't look too happy about wearing it, but it's a nice vest!)

Bobo is worked in Mirasol's Samp'a, a dk weight organic and naturally dyed cotton. It comes in mostly soft colors so if you're looking for a splash of something bright, check out T'ika! On the cotton-difficulty scale these cottons are both in the middle, but using them for a lace project puts them back at the bottom - super easy.

To fit chest size: 32-34", 36-38", 40-42", 42-44", 44-46"
Actual measurement: 40.75", 43.25", 45.75", 48", 50.5"
Yarn amounts: 9, 10, 10, 11, 11 balls of Samp'a
Other yarn suggestions: T'ika, Pure Pima, Top Seed Cotton, Butterfly, Scartlett, Hempathy, Merletto, Cotton Bamboo

Well I'm sure that's all you ever wanted to know about these two patterns ;) Let me know if you have any questions and I'll see you soon!

Patterns of the Month, June 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Patterns of the Month

June 2010

Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it
and get 15% off your purchase!

This June I have chosen a pretty lace shawl pattern and cottony summer cardigan to keep you warm/cool this summer. "Warm/cool" is a technical term (I made up) that means: takes the chill off but doesn't make you too hot.

The Flower Basket Shawl, designed by Evelyn Clark, is one of my favorite Fiber Trends shawl patterns. It has the typical Fiber Trends flexibility - you can pick from laceweight, fingering weight, sport weight or DK/light worsted weight yarns!

We have a small Flower Basket Shawl on display here at the store, made in one skein of Handmaiden SeaSilk. Stop by and see it sometime soon - it's in the front window! For other gorgeous yarn options, Try Mirasol Nuna or Classic Elite Silky Alpaca Lace.

More details:
Size: Instructions for 3 sizes in 4 yarn weights.
Measurements are approximate and will vary with yarn used. Size can be easily changed by adding or subtracting pattern repeats.
Scarf/shoulder shawl: 27" (69cm) deep and 54" (137cm) wide.
Small Shawl: 34" (86cm) deep and 68" (173cm) wide.
Large Shawl: 45" (114cm) deep and 90" (229cm) wide.

Yarn Requirements and Needle Sizes:
You will need a 24" to 32" (60 to 80 cm) circular needle in the size given below for your yarn weight.
Lace wt: Scarf/shoulder shawl 425 yds; small shawl 650 yds;
large shawl 1175 yds; US size 5 needle.
Fingering wt: Scarf/shoulder shawl 325 yds; small shawl 600 yds; large shawl 1100 yds; US size 6 needle.
Sport wt: Scarf/shoulder shawl 300 yds; small shawl 550 yds; large shawl 1000 yds;US size 8 needle.
DK or lt worsted wt: Scarf/shoulder shawl 250 yds; small shawl 450 yds; large shawl 850 yds; US size 10 needle.

Noa is a simple cardigan with ruffly details that you will always keep handy in the summer air conditioning. Worked in Berroco's Weekend, this cotton-blend fabric will cover you up and keep the goosebumps away while not overheating you.

More details:
Noa
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Bust (closed) – 32(36-40-44-48-52)”
Length – 28(28-29-29½-30-30½)”
MATERIALS
4(5-5-6-6-7) Hanks of Berroco Weekend

I've been working with this yarn, knitting a pullover from the same booklet. I really like it! It feels like cotton but is a lot more forgiving than 100% cotton yarns. A LOT. It's easier on your hands and all of the irregular-sized stitches that would stand out with a 100% cotton yarn disappear in Weekend.

I hope you'll stop by sometime soon and check out our spring and summer yarns. Here comes the SUN!

Patterns of the Month, May 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 03 May 2010 15:11:00 +0000

Patterns of the Month
May 2010

Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!

Our two patterns of the month for May reflect some of the most frequent requests we've had in the store recently. I hope it will give you a chance to knit with some yarns that you haven't found a good pattern for yet!

The first pattern happens to be a free pattern from Berroco.com. Published recently through the Berroco weekly newsletter, Ari has already become a popular pattern on Ravelry and the internet. It fulfills ALL of the criteria that a lot of you have asked for lately. Something that:

will take the chill off at an evening wedding or in the air conditioning
looks elegant but isn't too fancy or difficult
has a WIDE variety of yarns to choose from so you can find the color you want
covers your shoulders but actually stays on without a shawl pin or holding it with your hands

Meet Ari from the Berroco Design Team:
Ari is sized for bodies from 32" to 52" and has a cropped length of between 15.5" and 18.5". This feminine shape is easily customized for longer body or sleeve length if you so wish - but don't be afraid of the cropped look! It is very flattering to all kinds of body types and flexible for different wardrobes. This pattern calls for Berroco's cotton/acrylic blend yarn, Weekend, which we now stock in 19 colors.

You could also use
Cotton & cotton blends - Fantasy Naturale, Jeannee (on clearance)
Wool & wool blends - Peruvia, Lustra, Paca Tweed, Malabrigo Worsted, Ultra Alpaca, Galway, Comfort, Encore and many more!

For our second pattern I have this great, basic twin set from Plymouth Yarn Co. Two patterns in one, it features a v-neck tank top under a versatile deep-v neck cardigan - both with a twisted rib detail throughout. I would find myself reaching for this cardigan every day for work or an evening walk around the block.
This pattern is worked in Plymouth's Oceanside Organic Cotton but take a look at Mirasol's organic, naturally dyed cotton also. Other great options for summer wear include:

And for the wooly, cooler-weather options look at:

Lots of options for you! Let me know if you have any questions about yarn selection or the patterns and I'll get right back to you. Jen at info@sageyarn.com Hopefully we'll see you soon!

The Finer Things - Spring 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:31:00 +0000

It's time for our spring yarn tasting! Email info@sageyarn.com to reserve your spot.

The Finer Things*
featuring sport, fingering and laceweight yarns
and what to do with them!

Friday April 23rd
from 5-8pm
and Saturday April 24th
from 9am-12pm

10% off of all regular priced yarn during these hours!!

A yarn tasting is a time for you to stop by the store and sample some yarns that you may not try on your own. Sometimes it's hard to invest $5-$10 in a ball of yarn just for swatching... and then what happens when you don't like it? Well, sign up for either Friday night or Saturday morning and try out the yarns for FREE! We will be featuring the FINER things in the store this spring - sport, fingering and laceweight yarns. If you never work with fine yarns this is a great opportunity to try it out. Fine weight yarns are for more than just socks and lacy shawls and they're not as hard to work with as you might think!

We will provide a guidebook for you to take with you during your tasting so you can jot down your impressions of each yarn. There will be samples available to take home, a gift bag for those who've signed up, refreshments, free patterns and all of the yarn in the store is 10% off! I've already picked out the door prizes and man, they're good!

There are a limited number of slots open for sign-ups. If you don't get to sign up or choose not to sign up because you're not sure of your schedule, you can still come to shop the sale and see the yarns. You will be ineligible for the door prizes, however :)

email info@sageyarn.com to sign up!

*did you see what I did, there?

Mirasol March

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:23:00 +0000

Mirasol March

A sale to benefit the shepherd's children

Back in our Gift/Yarn store days one of the wonderful yarn lines that we fell in love with was the Mirasol project. The yarns were so high-quality and came in gorgeous colors. The pattern support was designed by renowned knitwear designer, Jane Ellison. And there is a human connection with this yarn... when you purchase this yarn you help children high in the Andes, whose parents tend to the alpaca herds of Mallkini ranch. Since then, the yarn and project has grown on us, and we wish to take the month of March to give the Mirasol Project the attention it deserves.

In this area of Peru, malnutrition and lack of education are a big problem. Children have to walk such a distance to even get to school that many do not attend. The Mirasol project has sought to better this situation by building dormitories and provide health care and meals for the children of the shepherds.

Mallard Mittens from Book 6

The Mirasol Project is also dedicated to "... the principles of Fair Trade where producers receive a price that covers the cost of sustainable production plus an extra premium that is invested in social or economic development projects."* While the yarn you purchase might be a dollar or two more than other yarns imported from Europe or South America, you can rest assured that the producers of these fibers are being compensated fairly and are actually supported by your purchase.

Since it's inception in 2005, the Mirasol Project has seen the construction of the dormitories and the implementation of health and education programs, but they still need your support. School, health and personal supplies, such as vaccines, toothpaste and books, are given to each student. Your purchase of these beautiful yarns will help with the continued success of the Project.

Ilapa from Book 3

Here at Sage, we would like to highlight this project and make it possible for you to spread the word about their wonderful products. Please consider purchasing some Mirasol yarn this month in support of the project. For every purchase you make over $30, Sage will take 15% off of your total. This discount does NOT discount the money that goes towards the project - it comes from our put-up cost. Also, if you are not local and would like to order yarn, we're unable to set up the discount on the website - give us a call and we'll take your order over the phone! 508-457-9513

Please email me if you have any questions about the yarn or anything at all: info@sageyarn.com

The Mirasol Project has pattern support for every one of their yarns from knitwear designer Jane Ellison. From the Mirasol books you can find patterns for Men, Women, Children and your home. Scroll down for more photos from the books and click here to browse through the Mirasol pattern catalogue on the KFI website.

Hannah, in Hap'i from book 5

Solomon, in Samp'a from Book 5

Alhambra, in Tika from book 2

Charlotte, in Samp'a from Book 4

Stella in Samp'a from Book 5

Kallpa, in Tupa from Book 3

Ana, in Qina from Book 3

*quote taken from the Mirasol information leaflet.

Patterns of the Month, February 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Patterns of the Month, February 2010
Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!

Here we go! The patterns of the month for February are two "greatest hits" from even before we owned the store.

First, the Portuguese Fisherman's Sweater (Malha de Pescador) - the old standby from the Candide days:
This pattern is still available through Reynolds though we don't carry Candide anymore. We've updated this sweater by knitting it in Peruvia, a wonderful aran weight wool from Berroco. Peruvia is much softer than the old Candide and comes in a wide range of beautiful colors. If Peruvia doesn't strike your fancy try one of these: Paca Tweed, Montera, Lamb's Pride Worsted, Kathmandu Aran, Homestead, Silky Flamme.

This sweater is a great way to cut your teeth on a larger garment without getting into something too complicated. You will cast on, knit, purl, bind off and pick up stitches. That's it! When you pick your size note that the finished measurements give you 2" of ease. This gives you room to wear something underneath and still be comfortable.

Gauge: 4sts & 5rows = 1 inch
Sizes: children 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, Adult 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44
Finished Chest Measurement: children 22", 24", 26", 28", 30", 32" Adult 34", 36", 38", 40", 42", 44", 46"
Yardage: 510, 510, 680, 680, 680, 680, 850, 1020, 1020, 1190, 1360, 1530, 1530

Our second pattern is a great winter pullover from Reynolds. It's called "Colorful Kids" but bear with me - I'm going make a case for this as an adult sweater as well.

This Guernsey features some easy cables and knit and purl details on the upper portion of the sweater. It is knit in a chunky yarn, which makes for a quick project! Our shop sample was knit using Lopi yarn, which has a tough rustic feel to it, but if you should like something a bit softer give these others a try: Peruvia Quick, Galway Chunky, Lamb's Pride Bulky, Encore Chunky, Sulka, Cuzco.

This sweater is great for kids who want to run and play in the cool fall or spring air but resist wearing a jacket. It's super warm! This sweater says it is sized for child's size 2-16... however, the finished measurements for these sizes range from 28" to 41"! For myself, I would knit the child's size 10-12, at a finished size of 36" and maybe add an inch or two to the 21" length (I would grab an extra ball, just in case).
Gauge: 14 sts and 19 rows = 4"
Sizes: 2-4, 6-8, 10-12, 14-16
Finished Measurement: 28", 32.5", 36", 41"
Yardage: 440, 550, 660, 770

As always, let me know if you have any questions or need any help. Email us at info@sageyarn.com or give us a call at 508-457-9513

~Jen

Patterns of the Month, January 2010

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 17:00:00 +0000

Patterns of the Month, January 2010

Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!

This month I have picked two very popular patterns from completely different categories. First, the most Versatile Scarf you'll ever knit!
This scarf gently curves around your neck almost in the style of the larger Faroese shawls. The "tails" at the end are long enough to wrap around your neck, tie in the front or pin with a pretty shawl/scarf pin. Deb knit this one using two balls of a beautiful silk from Louisa Harding called Mulberry:
The pattern itself features 3 different stitch patterns and almost endless yarn possibilities. This is the perfect pattern for featuring a special yarn that you've been coveting (Seasilk, Great Big Sea, Malabrigo Silky Merino) a handpainted yarn (Hacho, Chirapa, Malabrigo) or that ONE skein of sock yarn that doesn't want to be socks (Alpaca Sox, Alpaca Prima, Ultra Alpaca Fine). I love the style of this little scarf and enjoy wearing it with the point in front, like this... it seems to be the fashion these days!

Versatile Scarves
Pattern leaflet from Fiber Trends
Yarn Requirements:
Fingering/Sock - 280 yards, size US 6 needle
Sport - 250 yards, size US 7 needle
DK - 220 yards, size US 8 needle
Worsted - 190 yards, size US 10 needles

Our second pattern this month is a very popular afghan pattern leaflet from Plymouth Yarn (this photo really doesn't do it justice).
This aran afghan is knit in one piece and measures 45 x 56 as its finished size - just big enough to cover you up, while small enough not to drive you crazy while knitting it. While visually complex, a simple staggered cable pattern is repeated over and over along the length of the blanket. Once you've done it a few times, you might even have it memorized! Customers frequently knit this one as a present for a loved one and it always gets rave reviews.

Aran Cabled Afghan
leaflet from Plymouth Yarn
2000 yards of a worsted weight yarn of your choice, size US 9 circular needle
Yarn suggestions: Plymouth Encore, Plymouth Galway, Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted, Berroco Ultra Alpaca, Berroco Comfort, Berroco Peruvia

Well, I hope you see something you like! As usual, if you have any questions shoot me an email at info@sageyarn.com.

Andra's Trunk Show

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:43:00 +0000

Our wonderful sales representative from Berroco yarns has presented us with an amazing opportunity. She has offered to lend us her wonderful handknit sample garments to hold a trunk show at the store! They arrived, in style, this week!!!

Our DEAL for the next two weeks, instead of picking some
"patterns of the month" is to give you
15% off the purchase of the yarn & pattern
for any one of these sweaters!

This is a long post full of great details I don't want to you to miss. I hope you'll read to the end.

Pike
Pike has been on my to-do list for some time now. This size is medium uses only 6 skeins of Peruvia, an ultra soft wool from Berroco. When I told Andra it was on my list for the store she said I could borrow hers! I've seen a few people try it on and the Peruvia is already flying out the door. This is a free pattern online, so you can preview it here.
Loope

I picked out Loope the first time I looked at the pattern book for Lustra. The great shine of the yarn combined with the rich colors, simple styling and FUN tie accessory make this a great addition to your wardrobe. I think I'll walk down the street to Bojangles and pick out a flouncy scarf for a more feminine touch :) This size 44" took only 6 skeins of Lustra.

Anhinga
I have to be honest, I was a little on the fence with Anhinga. I really wasn't sure how it was going to flatter my shape (I'm a wonderful Pear). It has a flutter in the center over your belly and it criss-crosses your front.... Let me tell you - I TOTALLY love it. I tried on Andra's size 42" and it instantly shot to the top of my queue.

Here is the model:
And here is me:
That's my, "hey, I really like this!" face. The lighting is tough but you can see it doesn't highlight the tummy like I thought :-D I'll probably knit a size smaller than this one (I'm a 32" chest and maybe a 40" hip) Andra made this one with 14 balls of Pure Merino but I may make mine in Ultra Alpaca.

Goodall
Last but not least we have Goodall. The most cabley of the bunch, Goodall is made in Inca Gold, a worsted wool and silk blend. I made my wonderful Assemblage in this yarn and I really love it. This is the size 42" sweater and it took 14 skeins of Inca Gold.

WAIT! Why don't I throw Cormorant into the deal?

Cormorant is a sweet one-button cardigan knit in a combination of Ultra Alpaca worsted for the body and Ultra Alpaca Fine for the ruffle at the bottom. We have many matching colors between the worsted and the fine for you to pick from. The teal one I made is size 36" chest and used just 5 skeins of the worsted and one of the Fine.

COME ON IN and try on the samples! We do have to be nice to them - we can't get any strong perfume smells attached to them or have our makeup rub off on them. We have to return them in tip-top shape!

We're so grateful to have a wide range of sizes available in the store at the moment. In addition to those that Andra sent us we have 13 other sweaters and vests for you to browse through and every Berroco booklet currently produced. And here... a shot of Carol in Andra's Nimbus Cardigan (knit in Peruvia Quick) and Mom in Andra's Danielle Cowl and Graham hat (2 and 3 skeins of Sundae, respectively)

We hope you'll stop by in the next two weeks to get inspired!

Patterns of the Month October 2009

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:13:00 +0000

October 2009 Patterns of the Month
Choose your pattern and the yarn to go with it and get 15% off your purchase!!

I don't know about you, but chunky knits are making me very happy right now. I spent the summer making up quick little things like washcloths and portable things like socks. This cooler weather hit and I wanted a sweater - and I wanted it NOW! Chunky knits to the rescue.

For our patterns of the month this month we've picked a great chunky vest pattern and a great fall accessory - legwarmers! (they're back, you can't deny it)

Chunky Vest in Blizzard
leaflet pattern from Reynolds

This vest pattern has two styles to choose from - a placket neck with buttons and a fold-over collar and a plain neck with a hood. Anne made up a sample for us here at the store in the tan Blizzard in the photo:

Don't they look happy? :-D

Super Bulky yarn, Gauge 9sts to 4 inches
Chest circumference = 36", 40", 43", 46", 48"
Collared Vest: 6, 6, 7, 7, 8 balls of Blizzard
OR 396, 396, 462, 462, 528 yards of any super bulky yarn
Hooded Vest: 6, 6, 7, 8, 8 balls of Blizzard
OR 396, 396, 462, 528, 528 yards of any super bulky yarn

Other great super bulky yarns that would be great for this pattern include the NEW Sundae from Berroco (beautiful colors), and Encore Mega (machine wash acrylic/wool). Try putting together two strands of a funky chunky yarn for some extra flair ;)

Leg Warmers leaflet pattern from Oat Couture

Check out the flexibility on this pattern:

3 different leg warmer patterns to choose from
2 different lengths (17" or 21" long)
3 different yarn weights to choose from (DK, Worsted, or Chunky)
choose to either knit flat and seam it up or knit them in the round!

36 possibilities! That's what I call service!

For the sports player, warming up on the field, the figure skater who needs a little something on the ice or the every-day lounger cozying up on the couch...

Sizes: 8.5", 10.5", 13" circumference
DK: 17" long = 285, 350, 430 yards
21" long = 350, 430, 520 yards

Worsted: 17" long = 250, 305, 375 yards
21" long = 305, 375, 460 yards

Chunky: 17" long = 210, 265, 325 yards
21" long = 265, 325, 400 yards

I don't have any of these made up at the store right now but I do know that Carol has made them in the past. She made them in Falmouth colors - maroon and white - and used the solid pattern option, knit flat. With the different yarn choices in this pattern you can make them up using almost 80% of the yarns in the store - your pick!

I hope you see something you like and, as always, let us know if you have any questions!

Patterns of the Month September 2009

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:17:00 +0000

September's Patterns of the Month

Pick your yarn and your pattern and save 15% on both!

This month I decided to go with a pair of simple patterns from companies known for their clean style and clear directions.

First up, fingerless gloves!

Matchgirl Gloves from Dolce Handknits

Out of all the fingerless gloves I've knit, this pair fits me the best (my mom made this pair, here).
They narrow at the wrist just a bit to keep the fabric in close to your skin and keep you nice and cozy. At 300 yards of sport/DK weight yarn it's a great opportunity to indulge in a luxurious fiber :)

Gauge: 6 sts to the inch (it calls for a size 5 needle)
Yarns: My mom used Mirasol Hacho, other great yarns include Malabrigo Silky Merino, Happy Feet DK, Mirasol Qina, Classic Elite Wool Bamboo, Handmaiden Great Big Sea, and Ultra Alpaca Light.

ALL SUMMER I have been yearning for a basic cardigan that I can throw on in the air conditioning. This is one of those patterns - pick a great yarn in a color that flatters and then settle in with some easy knitting.

V Neck, Neckdown Cardigan for Women from Knitting Pure and Simple

Since this one is done in a worsted weight yarn you have your pick of over 30 yarn styles totalling 100s of color choices. Encore Tweed, Paca Tweed, and Kathmandu Aran would get you the great tweedy look of the photograph while Peruvia or Homestead would get you a more wooly sweater. If you're feeling adventurous, you could throw in your favorite stitch pattern here or there!

Finished Measurements: Chest - 36", 40", 44", 48", 52"
Yarn requirements: 1,250, 1,325, 1,400, 1,500, 1,650 yds
Gauge: 18 sts to 4 inches over stockinette st.

Merino Madness!

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:11:00 +0000

Hi Everyone!
We’ve scheduled the yarn tasting event for the Fall! I think this Fall could be called Merino Madness (last year was Alpacapalooza) since I’ve picked all different merino yarns. I’m putting together all the goodies and brainstorming some new ideas. Let me know if you have any suggestions!

Merino Madness!
Friday, September 11th from 5-8pm
OR
Saturday, September 12th from 9-12am

Here’s the yarn tasting overview: For each tasting we pick out a selection of our yarns that we have in stock. We wind up the balls, cast on a bit of knitting using the needles that we have in stock and set them up around a big table. You can walk around, tasting the yarns and taking notes on your favorites in your Yarn Passport. We have goody bags for each person who has signed up, a big door prize and other goodies. And FOOD! We’ll have all of the yarn in the store on sale to give you a chance to stock up while you’re here :)

If you have any questions let me know! Please sign up by emailing info@sageyarn.com. Last year I messed up the signup lists so David is keeping tabs on me, lol. Signups are limited due to space & goody bag availability!

You can check out photos from past yarn tastings here on the blog.

Patterns of the Month August 2009

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:30:00 +0000

August's Patterns of the Month

Pick your yarn and your pattern and save 15% on your purchase of both!

We're big Berroco fans around here & we're happy to offer two selections from their fall line for our August patterns of the month.

How about something nice for your favorite gentleman?
Devon, from Norah Gaughan Men's Booklet, from Berroco Yarns

I have found it difficult to pick patterns for the men in my life and Berroco has jumped in this season to make it easier on me. This pullover is knit in Peruvia Quick, which is a wonderfully soft bulky weight wool from the peruvian highlands. It features a cable pattern along the center front - not too complicated for TV knitting and just enough interesting material to keep you going. Devon has a matching hat with the same cable pattern, should you end up with some leftover yarn :)

I have to confess, I may make this one for myself. The smallest size, 36", would be a really great, loose-fitting pullover to snuggle up with this winter.

Devon
Finished Measurements
Chest – 36(40-44-48-52-56)”
Length – 26½(27-27-27½-28-28½)”
8(9-9-11-12-13) hanks of Berroco Peruvia Quick

Our second pattern for this month is another great sweater for the "tween" in your life.
Ferris, from Berroco Comfort Book for Girls, Berroco Book #291
Ferris is a great, swingy cardigan for the fall, featuring more "grown up" details than most of the younger knits we have in-store. Comfort DK provides beautiful stitch definition for the front cable details while staying soft in your hands (and it's machine-wash!). The sizing is just right - you can see the size 6 (28") on this model - ranging from 26" to 32".

Ferris
Child Sizes 4, 6, 8, 10
Finished Measurements
Chest (closed) – 26(28-30-32)”
Length – 16(17-18-19)”
Materials
5(5-6-7) Balls of Berroco Comfort DK

If you're looking for something just a bit larger than this, check out Calvert from Norah Gaughan Vol 3, which ranges in size from 30" to 50". It's not part of the POTM this month but thought I'd mention it, just in case!
Alright! That's it for August - I hope you see something you like! Let me know if you have any questions about either design or the yarn - info@sageyarn.com

Jen

Patterns of the Month, July 2009

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:30:00 +0000

July's Patterns of the Month

Pick your yarn & your pattern and SAVE 15%! on your WHOLE purchase :-D

Classic Silk Open Cardi by Pam Allen
Found in the New Harbor pattern booklet from Classic Elite

This open, summery cardigan features a simple lace panel on either side of a wide ribbed neckline. Classic Silk is one of our more under-appreciated yarns and is simply beautiful. It's slightly tweedy and cottony feeling but not too hard on your hands. The silk lends to the tweed look and helps to chase away the chill on a summer night (or in the cold A.C.) We stock 9 earthy colors of the Classic Silk and many other yarns you could substitute (any other worsted weight yarn - Classic Elite Summer Set, Plymouth Galway, Berroco Ultra Alpaca and many more)

My mom knit this one in the cream colorway and added a silk flower pin to pull it closed. You could use a shawl pin or double pointed needle to add some style or wear it open!

Classic Silk Open Cardi
Sizes: 30 (33.25, 37.25, 41, 44.75)
Materials: 6 (7, 8, 8, 9) balls of Classic Silk from Classic Elite
Gauge - 19sts by 29 rows = 4" in stockinette on US 7 needles

Kids Kimono
by JoAnne Turcotte, pattern leaflet from Plymouth Yarns
Our second pattern for this month is a child's kimono-style sweater. We have been expanding our selection of patterns for "tween" sizes - children older than toddler but younger than teens - and have had surprising success! This sweater is made up of garter stitch rectangles, making it a great first sweater for a beginning knitter. Since it is over-sized in style, if it is a tiny bit big or small it will still fit the recipient!
This sweater can be knit in any worsted weight yarn which makes the color selection and fiber options HUGE. Pick from Plymouth Encore (now in tweeds), Plymouth Galway, Berroco Ultra Alpaca, Malabrigo Merino Worsted, Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted, Berroco Comfort, Queensland Rustic Tweed, and MANY others.

Anne knit this pattern for display in Plymouth Galway Paint:
TAKE NOTE of these sizes! This could be a good cropped design to knit for yourself. If you like the kimono look we have additional patterns for women's sizes and a wonderful book called Knit Kimono.

Sizes: 4 (6, 8, 10) oversized
Chest: 32 (34, 36, 38)
Materials: Encore or Galway 4 (4, 5, 5) balls
Gauge: 16sts=4" on a size 9 needle

We hope you'll enjoy the July patterns of the month - we're still in summer mode but will soon be thinking about fall/winter and holiday projects (can you believe it?)

Patterns of the Month, June 2009

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:39:00 +0000

We're featuring two patterns for our very first Patterns of the Month!
This month this is an in-store special (the website isn't set up for it)

Pick your yarn & your pattern and SAVE 15%! on your purchase :-D

Flower Child and Pucker - both from Norah Gaughan Volume 4, new this spring.

Pucker

Pucker is a t-shirt style summertime knit made in Berroco Seduce. I picked it because it is a simple knit but has a few design features that may be new to you. You mostly knit and purl, in stockinette stitch (you can do that!) but when you get to the neckline you get to use decreases and increases to make the pucker detail along the bust. The short, swingy sleeves are just a bit different from the tight cap sleeves that were in fashion last year.

It is also a pretty flattering knit for many different body types. Click here to check out all of the projects on Ravelry. This is a size 34" on me, a size 32" bust. I have big arms for my bust size and while I do have a waist I have pretty wide hips just below it. I would probably leave the pucker off the bottom edge for my pear self but I love, love, love the neckline.

I forgot to smile because the camera timer was driving me crazy!

Sizes available from 32" to 54"! Adding length to the body or leaving off the bottom pucker are both super easy alterations - email me if you want to do either and need some helpful hints.

Yarn! Pucker is knit in Seduce (I used Seduce Colors), which is a pretty unique yarn. It is silky but not super slippery, textured but not bumpy and comes in beautiful colors. It is a "worsted" weight yarn, meaning you can get a gauge of 5 sts to the inch on US 8 needles but the resulting fabric is a little mesh-like. I think it's beautiful but if you're looking for something a bit more solid check out Hempathy or Butterfly Cotton. You will have to do a gauge swatch to see what needle size to use with this alternative but you will get a much more solid fabric while keeping the swingy style fabric.
Pucker
sizes
to fit bust size 30(34-38-42-46-50-54)”
finished measurements
bust – 30(34-38-42-46-50-54)”
length – 21(21½-22-23-23½-24½-25)”
materials
Seduce or Seduce Colors
6(7-8-9-10-11-12), 40 gr balls

Flower Child
I picked Flower Child because I'm totally in love with it. From the moment I saw a preview copy from our Berroco rep last fall I knew I'd be making one. I have only swatched so far but you'll be seeing me around town in one pretty soon! Flower Child is plain on the back, making for some more simple knitting, while you have to pay more attention when you're working on the front. There area few more skills on this one - knit, purl, increase, decrease, make bobble, cable, yarn over.

There are two versions of this tee - a short version and a long version. The one in the modeled photo is the longer version while the sample that was sent to us is the short version. This design is also one that looks good on all different bodies - click here to check out the projects on Ravelry. I'm knitting the shorter version due to my hips; I'm a pear and the upper detail will balance out my natural hippiness on a shorter version.

This is my sister in the smallest size, short version. Shhh!! Don't tell her I posted this photo!

Yarn: This one is knit in Berroco's new Pure Pima, which I highly recommend. It comes in beautiful, rich shades and it is a VERY high quality cotton for a great price. It won't sag out of shape, especially in a design like this one, so you can feel confident that your finished garment will look great! We have a few good yarn substitutions if Pure Pima doesn't have your color - check out Scarlett, Hempathy, Cotton Bamboo, and Bambool. You will have to swatch with this pattern no matter what yarn you pick. Please, please swatch!

Flower Child
sizes
to fit bust size 30(34-38-42-46-50)”
finished measurements
bust – 30(34-38-42-46-50)”
long version – 28(29-3031-32-33)”
shorter version – 21(22½-24½-26-n/a-n/a)
materials
Pure Pima
long version – 8(10-11-13-14-16), 50 gr hanks
shorter version – 7(8-9-11-n/a,n/a) 50 gr hanks

Summer projects...

noreply@blogger.com (J.Reilly) — Mon, 25 May 2009 15:16:00 +0000

....how do I love thee - let me count the ways...

cottony yarns wick moisture away from my fingers, keeping me cool as I work
lacy fashions are IN and great for cool summer nights
A sock or dishcloth on-the-go keeps me busy at BBQs, family gatherings and road trips
the market bag I just finished will be used at the Farmers' Market that starts up on the green across the street from us
baseball games make the perfect project background noise!
tanks tops get done so much faster than cardigans
I get started on Christmas knitting - small projects like mittens, headbands, scarves - planning the bigger projects for later
bright colors are IN
I work on small pieces of a larger project - that afghan I want can get done one square at a time
linen, bamboo, cotton, hemp and other summer blends are everywhere nowadays
floppy brimmed hats look soooo cute on summer babies at the beach!

You can KNIT/CROCHET IN PUBLIC! since your fingers won't freeze and the weather is so beautiful, you can take your projects outside! (Remember, sand will wash right out of your projects with a good soak)

What do you love about summer knitting/crocheting?