cleverknits

Private Lessons

2010-02-28T15:05:00.000-08:00

We are happy to help resolve quick errors (5-minutes-or-less) free of charge if you purchased your yarn here at Clever Knits. There is a $5 charge for this assistance if you purchased your yarn elsewhere.

For more complex problems, or to learn new techniques, we offer private lessons in knit and crochet for a very reasonable rate of $20 per 30 minutes (30 minute minimum). These can be scheduled individually with Karen, Lexi, or Helena by emailing us at cleverknits@gmail.com.

Faraday

2010-02-24T13:19:00.000-08:00

I LOVE yarns with crazy colors, hand-dyed yarns, and stripes, but complex lace and patterned socks get lost in the sea of crazy colors.

After much searching amongst nicely textured sock patterns to find one that would work well with heavily variegated yarn, I discovered that I would have to make my own due to the fact that every single one was cable-heavy (and I was on a cable boycott).

I was in love with the lace pattern from the “Radio Room Hat” pattern, and after contacting its author, I learned that it is a vintage stitch originally found in an ancient magazine of the author's mother. So I adapted the pattern into a sock pattern.

I’m calling the pattern ‘Faraday’ for two reasons: first, the polar opposite of a hat is a sock, and the opposite of a radio room is a room in which no radio can transmit. Uber-science-nerds are familiar with such rooms, called ‘Faraday Cages’ after scientist Michael Faraday.

It’s also amusing to me that this pattern was birthed from avoidance of cables. The pun here is that things without cables are often called ‘wireless’ (and radio waves certainly are wireless).

And so, I am pleased to present you with the Faraday pattern, available for just $1.00 on Ravelry or free with any sock yarn purchase here at Clever Knits.

Patterns, now all in one place!

2010-02-17T23:07:00.001-08:00

All patterns and photos are © Clever Knits. They are protected under the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives License.

These patterns are for personal, non-profit use only. You may not sell items made from these patterns. You may make them for yourself, as gifts, or for donation to charity sales or auctions. These patterns may also be used for knitalongs or other organized knitting events that are completely free of charge.

Merchants may not download or print these patterns for sale, distribution, nor class use without prior written permission from the author. If you are a teacher or store owner and would like to use one of our patterns for a class, please contact cleverknits@gmail.com.

Printing or downloading a pattern constitutes agreement with these terms.

If you use and enjoy our free patterns, we welcome donations to our pattern-writing-fund. These monies are used to help keep creative juices flowing. Sometimes that involves espresso and chocolate.

All the Math - FREE [download now]	Baby Valentine Sweater - $4.00 [purchase now]
Olympic Reindeer Hat - FREE [download now]	Faraday - $2.00 [purchase now]

All the Math

2010-02-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to feature a new, FREE pattern written by Helena. This generic pattern for magic-loop, toe-up socks with a slip stitch heel is named because I have done all the math for you. Download link.

The pattern includes instructions for 5 different sock sizes on 3 different needle sizes. Pictured sock is Trekking XXL, color 135 in size Women’s M on 2.5mm needles (Addi turbo US size 1).

Note that millimeter measurements can correspond to different US sizes, so it is important to make sure your needles match the millimeter measurement.

Materials:

100g sock-weight yarn
1 circular needle, 32” or longer (40” is best), size 2mm, 2.5mm, or 3mm

Sizing:

2mm needles: Sizes XS (S, M); Circumference 6.25 (7.25, 8.25); 8 sts per inch
2.5mm needles: Sizes S (M, L); Circumference 7.25 (8.25, 9.25); 7.25 sts per inch
3mm needles: Sizes M (L, XL); Circumference 8.25 (9.25, 10.25); 6.5 sts per inch

Note: for men’s socks, I recommend working size L (men’s M) or XL (men’s L).

South Bay Shawlette crochet class - March 2010

2010-02-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

Karen will be teaching a beautiful crochet lace "shawlette" in March.

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $36 plus materials ($50 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Schedule: The class will span 3 weeks, ~~Saturdays, March 13th, 20th, and 27th from 2-4pm.~~
Dates Moved! Class will be held: Saturday March 13, 2-4pm and Sundays March 21 & 28, 4-6pm.

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Note: This is an advanced class. Students must have already mastered the techniques covered in Crochet 101 before taking this course.

Materials required:

Pattern (link) - please print and bring with you to the class
2 skeins laceweight suri alpaca or mohair yarn
Size I hook
Darning needle

February 2010 Knitnews & Valentine's Sale!

2010-02-05T15:26:00.000-08:00

Clever Knitters!

I hope your knit and crochet goals for the new year are well underway. No more holiday knitting! And still several months of chilly weather to warrant working on a bulky sweater or afghan.

This Sunday is the Super Bowl, so if you need to get away from football, Clever Knits is the place to be! We Crochet-a-Long EVERY Sunday, and Super Bowl Sunday is no exception.

Contents of this message:

1. Valentine's Sale!
2. New Items - It's not a yarn problem, it's a yarn solution!
3. Social Knit/Crochet Events - New & old, a summary of our social knitting/crochet events

1. Valentine's Sale!

Sweetheart deals in store on February 14th, and everyone who makes a purchase that day will receive a FREE copy of Helena's Baby Valentine Sweater pattern.

2. New things!
I don't have a yarn problem, I have a yarn solution! Loads of lovely new yarns and delightful new colors. Fiber makes me happy.

Cascade Ultra Pima, brand new to the whole wide world, this marvelous 100% pima cotton yarn comes in great-big 100g/220yd hanks and is very affordably priced. It has a great hand, and is lovely to work with (even wool-snobs love working with it).
Cascade Cloud 9, new to us, this 50/50 Merino/Angora blend is positively decadent and absurdly affordable.
Cascade 220 in how many new colors? I'm not sure I can count them!
Cascade 220 Superwash Paints in just a few colors.
Trekking XXL a dreamy sock yarn in delicious new colors for spring
Berroco Sox in new spring colors too
Lantern Moon Silk Bags in the larger size, great for medium-sized projects
Lantern Moon Baskets back in stock (but not for long!)
Blocking Wires for stretching lace shawls to their full potential
Eucalan wool wash, 4 scents in 2 sizes
Wire Sock Blockers with a built-in hanger, these are brand-new to the world and might be my new favourite thing
So many books I can't even count them all. Come take a peek.
Fiber Trends patterns, a yummy selection of cute things to knit and felt
Churchmouse Patterns, an equally yummy selection of beautiful things, extremely well-written, simple patterns

3. Social Knitting/Crochet Events
These events are social groups. No instruction is provided during these times -- they are just an opportunity to hang out with like-minded individuals, celebrating and practicing the fiber arts. Information on classes can be found on our website by clicking the 'classes' link at the top of the page. ALL our events, including classes, can be seen on our Google Calendar.

Clever Knits knitnight: EVERY Tuesday 6-10pm
- don't be fooled by the name; both knitting AND crochet are welcome
- please, no children (it's a school night!)
more info: http://cleverknits.com/2009/08/note-on-knitnight.html

Sock Knit-a-long: EVERY Thursday, 6-8pm
- anyone working on any sock pattern is welcome

Oceanside Knitters: EVERY Friday 5-8pm
- no need to be an Oceanside resident - all are welcome!
- children who knit or crochet are welcome to attend
more info: Ravelry

Crochet/Knit-a-long: EVERY Sunday 1-4pm
- focus on a specific project, though others are welcome to 'crash'
more info: http://cleverknits.com/search/label/KAL

Warm (& sweatery) regards,

Clever Knits
214 S. Indiana Ave
Vista CA 92084

open 12-8pm daily
FREE knitnight Tuesdays 6-10pm

http://cleverknits.com
cleverknits@gmail.com
phone: 760.806.6744

Sock KAL

2010-01-30T14:40:00.001-08:00

Announcing a Sock KAL: Thursdays from 6-8pm starting February 11th!

Bring any sock that's on your needles, and come for moral support, get a few rows knit, learn some new techniques, swap patterns, and SHARE THE SOCK-LOVE.

We have a RIDICULOUS selection of sock yarn (I'm told we're famous for it), so if your stash is low, come in and grab a skein.

Knit & Crochet groups at Clever Knits

2010-01-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

We have MANY knitting and crochet groups that meet here at Clever Knits, and a new group will start meeting here in February, so this is a summary/reminder/announcement of all the various knit and crochet groups dates and times.

These events are social groups. No instruction is provided during these times -- they are just an opportunity to hang out with like-minded individuals, celebrating and practicing the fiber arts.

Information on classes can be found on our website by clicking the 'classes' link at the top of the page. ALL our events, including classes, can be seen on our Google Calendar.

Clever Knits knitnight: EVERY Tuesday 6-10pm
- don't be fooled by the name; both knitting AND crochet are welcome
- please, no children (it's a school night!)
more info: http://cleverknits.com/2009/08/note-on-knitnight.html

Sock Knit-a-long: EVERY Thursday, 6-8pm
- anyone working on any sock pattern is welcome

Oceanside Knitters: EVERY Friday 5-8pm
- no need to be an Oceanside resident - all are welcome!
- children who knit or crochet are welcome to attend
more info: Ravelry

Crochet/Knit-a-long: EVERY Sunday 1-4pm
- focus on a specific project, though others are welcome to 'crash'
more info: http://cleverknits.com/search/label/KAL

Knit 101 - February 2010

2010-01-21T17:18:00.000-08:00

This class will go over how to do the basic stitches. This is the first class you should take if interested in learning to knit -- and even if it's the ONLY class you ever take, you should be adept at making washcloths and scarves (and other square or rectangular objects).

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $12 plus materials for the 2hr session ($18 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Dates: Choose one or both. Most students can learn all the stitches in one class, but some students benefit from repeating the course.

~~Thursday, Feb 4th: 6-8pm~~ FULL
Monday, Feb 22nd: 6-8pm

You will learn: casting on, knit stitch, purl stitch, binding off, weaving in ends

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes may be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials required:

1 skein Cascade 220
Size 8 knitting needles (straight bamboo needles are preferred, but metal/plastic needles or circular needles are acceptable)
Darning needle

Crochet 101 - March 2010

2010-01-19T17:14:00.000-08:00

This class will go over how to do the basic stitches. This is the first class you should take if interested in learning to crochet -- and even if it's the ONLY class you ever take, you should be adept at making washcloths and scarves (and other square or rectangular objects).

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $12 plus materials for the 2hr session ($18 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Date:Saturday, March 6th: 4-6pm

You will learn: (subject to change depending on the pace of the class) chain stitch, single crochet, double crochet, triple crochet, weaving in ends.

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials required:

1 skein Cascade 220
Size H hook
Darning needle

Baby Valentine Sweater

2010-01-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

When I saw a customer working on the Karin Lace Shawl by Evelyn Clark, my first thought was that the heart-shaped lace would be absolutely precious as a replacement for the gull-lace in the February Baby Sweater by Elizabeth Zimmerman from Knitter’s Almanac. After a lot of math and the assistance of several dedicated test-knitters, I am thrilled to present this pattern for the Baby Valentine Sweater.

Pattern is available in hard-copy at the shop for just $4.00, or on ravelry for $5.00.

The sweater pattern is written for infant size, but can be altered for larger sizes by increasing both yarn weight and needle size. For example, a worsted weight yarn and size 9 or 10 needles would make a toddler-sized sweater. The red sample was worked up in Colinette Jitterbug on size 6 needles.

Knitnews #5: Clever Knits updates for January 2010

2010-01-13T11:28:00.000-08:00

Clever Knitters,

Happy new year! I hope that your holidays were safe and fun and full of fibery gifts.

Contents of this message:

1. January & February Classes - LOTS of great classes!
2. Crochet-a-Long - Erica's Aunt's ripple afghan, Sundays from 1-3pm, FREE
3. Crazy Quilt CAKAL and Drawing - world's craziest barn-raising sock-yarn quilt
4. As always - knitnight Tues 6-10pm, Open Crochet Sunday 2-6pm, O'side knitters 5-8pm, free wireless, yarnstorm

1. Class schedules through February posted
Details about classes below, or check our website and click the 'classes' link at the top of the page.

JANUARY CLASSES

Knit/Crochet 101:
January will be the month of 101 -- so tell your friends to make good of their new-year's resolution to learn a new craft. Studies show that fiber arts are as relaxing as yoga for the mind and spirit. A super-cute gift idea for a friend who has always wanted to learn: a skein of Cascade 220, knitting needles or a crochet hook, and a gift certificate to one of our knit or crochet 101 class -- under $25 for the whole package!

KNIT 101 - Jan 17th OR 25th - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/knit-101-january-2010.html
CROCHET 101 - Jan 31 - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/crochet-101-january-2010.html

Socks from the Toe Up:
By popular demand, our resident expert, Rhonda, will be teaching socks from the toe-up. Saturdays, Jan 16, 23, and 30th, $54 plus materials for all 3 sessions ($74 if yarn is purchased elsewhere) - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/socks-from-toe-up-january-2010.html

Feather-and-Fan Crochet:
Karen will be teaching a feather-and-fan crochet scarf at the end of January. The feather-and-fan stitch is a classic fundamental in lace knitting, and this clever and elegant pattern brings the stitch to crochet as well - Wednesday evenings Jan 27th and Feb 3rd from 6-8pm, $24 plus materials ($36 if materials are purchased elsewhere) - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/feather-and-fan-crochet-scarf-january.html

FEBRUARY CLASSES

Knit 101: Feb 22 - details: http://cleverknits.com/2010/01/knit-101-february-2010.html

Crochet 102: Basket-Weave Stitch:
$14 plus materials for the 2hr session ($19 if materials are purchased elsewhere) - details: http://cleverknits.com/2010/01/crochet-102-basket-weave-stitch.html

February Lady Sweater:
Helena is thrilled to be teaching the aptly named February Lady Sweater (pdf link) by Pamela Wynne from Flint Knits. This is the number one sweater on ravelry for a reason (Over 7,000 made! ravelry link)! It's a fantastic 'first sweater' for an advanced beginner. Beginners can easily omit the lacework and do a solid garter-stitch sweater. $63 plus materials ($89 if materials are purchased elsewhere), Saturdays from 1-3pm, February 6, 13, 20, 27 - details: http://cleverknits.com/2010/01/february-lady-sweater-class-february.html

2. Crochet-a-long Ripple Afghan
Every Sunday from 1-3pm, Karen and customer Erica are hosting a crochet-a-long. The project is Erica's Auntie's ripple afghan - a delightful vintage pattern. Anyone is welcome to participate, and the CAL is completely free, even if it's not being made from our yarns (though I do recommend a cozy wool afghan from the DOZENS of colors of Cascade 220 we have in stock). Details about the CAL: http://cleverknits.com/2010/01/crochet-long-ripple-afghan.html

3. Crazy Quilt CAKAL and Drawing
I've finally started stitching together our wild crochet-and-knit-a-long (cakal?) -- the world's craziest barn-raising sock-yarn quilt. The lap-ghan knit entirely from washable wool sock-yarn will be raffled off as soon as it's done. Each square constitutes one entry in the drawing to win the quilt, and we ARE still accepting squares, though we ask now that they be sized in increments of 2" (2x2, 2x4, 2x6, 4x4, 4x6, 4x8, etc), since I've puzzled together all the oddly-sized pieces and these will make the outside border.

4. As Always

knitnight:
Our knitnight Tuesdays EVERY week from 6-10pm continue to be an exciting and popular opportunity to come hang out and make new knitterly friends. All fiber artists are welcome (crochet, needlepoint, spinning, cat’s cradle, etc)! Feel free to come by even if you just need a stash-fix or a needle, or want to see what all the fuss is about – you don’t HAVE to stay, but you are more than welcome to.

We also have open knit/crochet on Sundays from 2-6pm, and the Oceanside Knitters (ravelry link) meet here on Fridays from 5-8pm (though you needn't be an Oceanside resident to attend -- they're a very open and friendly bunch, and most of them come Tuesdays and/or Sundays, too).

Free wireless:
Don't forget that we offer free wireless to our customers and their knitcomplices, so bring that laptop to browse ravelry or check a pattern on knitty, or whip out your iPhone and make use of our speedy fast connection to learn a new technique on youtube.

Yarnstorm '10:
There's still a chance to bring some yarn graffiti to decorate our ducts and GET 15% OFF your entire purchase that day! Swatches need to be 26 inches in length and anywhere from 4-10" wide, made of ANY yarn in your stash (they just need to look pretty), knit OR crochet. This offer is valid until the ducts are fully covered in yarn graffiti -- and they're nearly full!

Warm (& sweatery) regards,
Helena, Karen, & Lexi

Clever Knits
214 S. Indiana Ave
Vista CA 92084

open 12-8pm daily
FREE knitnights Tuesdays 6-10pm

http://cleverknits.com
cleverknits@gmail.com
phone: 760.806.6744

Crochet-a-long: Ripple Afghan

2010-01-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

Erica and Karen are Starting a New Crochet-A-Long on Sundays at Clever Knits from 1:00 to 3:00. We are going to be kicking it old school, you know how much Karen loves all things vintage, and making Erica's Aunt’s Ripple Afghan, but each our own original versions of it!

Erica has her aunt's vintage pattern and is happy to share it with anyone working the project. This is a FREE event and you can bring any yarn you have that you want to work with. No restrictions, no charge!

Come be a granny square and join us in the fun!

February Lady Sweater class - February 2010

2010-01-04T18:22:00.000-08:00

This class is FULL, but we will be offering it again in the Fall!

Helena is thrilled to be teaching the aptly named February Lady Sweater in February. This is the number one sweater on ravelry for a reason (Over 7,000 made! ravelry link)! It's a fantastic 'first sweater' for an advanced beginner. Beginners can easily omit the lacework and do a solid garter-stitch sweater.

Pattern: February Lady Sweater (pdf), by Pamela Wynne, from Flint Knits

Cost: $63 if you buy materials here / $89 if you bring your own

Note: Please download, print, and bring the pattern with you to the first class.

Schedule: Saturdays from 1-3pm, February 6, 13, 20, 27

Feb 6: **Bring a 4" square garter stitch swatch in your sweater-yarn to the first class** Calculate gauge and size, cast-on, begin yoke construction
Homework: complete yoke

Feb 13: Separate sleeves, begin lace work
Homework: complete body

Feb 20th: Pick-up sleeve stitches, sleeve construction, in-the-round knitting
Homework: complete sleeve

Feb 27th (optional): 2nd sleeve help, make-up session

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (class may be canceled & all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials:

750-1400 yards worsted weight yarn. Cascade 220 is an extremely affordable option and would be lovely in this pattern. Colinette Cadenza or Berroco Pure Merino provide more luxury and easy-care options.
32" US Size 8 circular needle
Set of US Size 8 DPNs (for those not comfortable with the magic loop method)
Stitch markers
3 buttons 7/8"

Crochet 102: Basket weave stitch - February 2010

2010-01-04T18:05:00.001-08:00

This class will introduce a complex new crochet stitch -- the basket weave stitch. This is a great stitch for scarves, and could also be employed on sweaters, garment edges, or any number of other locations. Students should already have mastered techniques covered in Crochet 101 before taking this class.

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $14 plus materials for the 2hr session ($19 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Date: Saturday, February 20th, 4-6pm

You will learn: basket weave stitch

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes may be canceled and fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials required:

1 skein DK-weight yarn (wool or alpaca)
Size G hook
Darning needle

Sock yarn crazy quilt update #2

2010-01-03T17:28:00.001-08:00

We've laid out the squares for the quilt, and I've begun to sew the pieces together (though I may need some help! Wow that is a lot of tiny pieces, and tiny ends to weave!). It's looking fairly amazing.

We definitely CAN still take squares and rectangles, though I'll need to ask that they all be either 2" or 4" along one side (the other side can be any length), since it will become a bit more tricky to find a home for them in the blanket if they are oddly-shaped.

Remember, one swatch = one entry in the drawing to win the quilt! I may offer up entries to those helping me weave in ends or stitch squares together, since that will be a lot of work, too.

Feather-and-fan Crochet scarf - January 2010

2009-12-26T13:37:00.000-08:00

Karen will be teaching a feather-and-fan crochet scarf at the end of January. The feather-and-fan stitch is a classic fundamental in lace knitting, and this clever and elegant pattern brings the stitch to crochet as well.

image © Elisa Purnell

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $24 plus materials ($36 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Schedule: The class will span 2 weeks, Wednesday evenings Jan 27th and Feb 3rd from 6-8pm.

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Note: This is an advanced class. Students must have already mastered the techniques covered in Crochet 101 before taking this course.

Materials required:

Pattern (ravelry link) - please print and bring with you to the class
400-500 yards worsted or aran weight yarn; we recommend Skacel Urban silk (4 skeins) or Handmaiden Sea Three (2 skeins) for this elegant pattern
Size G hook
Darning needle

Crochet 101 - January 2010

2009-12-17T17:23:00.000-08:00

January will be the month of 101 -- so tell your friends to make good of their new-year's resolution to learn a new craft. Studies show that fiber arts are as relaxing as yoga for the mind and spirit. A super-cute gift idea for a friend who has always wanted to learn: a skein of Cascade 220, knitting needles or a crochet hook, and a gift certificate to one of our knit or crochet 101 class -- under $25 for the whole package!

This class will go over how to do the basic stitches. This is the first class you should take if interested in learning to crochet -- and even if it's the ONLY class you ever take, you should be adept at making washcloths and scarves (and other square or rectangular objects).

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $12 plus materials for the 2hr session ($18 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Schedule: Three classes will be offered, you may register for any or all of them (though you should need just one class, some students benefit from repeating the course a second time):
Saturday, Jan 9th: 4-6pm
Wednesday, Jan 13th: 6-8pm
Sunday, Jan 31st: 2-4pm

You will learn: (subject to change depending on the pace of the class) chain stitch, single crochet, double crochet, triple crochet, weaving in ends.

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials required:

1 skein Cascade 220
Size H hook
Darning needle

Knit 101 - January 2010

2009-12-17T17:10:00.000-08:00

January will be the month of 101 -- so tell your friends to make good of their new-year's resolution to learn a new craft. Studies show that fiber arts are as relaxing as yoga for the mind and spirit. A super-cute gift idea for a friend who has always wanted to learn: a skein of Cascade 220, knitting needles or a crochet hook, and a gift certificate to one of our knit or crochet 101 class -- under $25 for the whole package!

This class will go over how to do the basic stitches. This is the first class you should take if interested in learning to knit -- and even if it's the ONLY class you ever take, you should be adept at making washcloths and scarves (and other square or rectangular objects).

Registration: Come in, call 760-806-6744, or email cleverknits@gmail.com to register. Advance payment is required to guarantee your space in class. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your place in the class.

Cost: $12 plus materials for the 2hr session ($18 if materials are purchased elsewhere)

Schedule: Three classes will be offered, you may register for any or all of them (though you should need just one class, some students benefit from repeating the course a second time):

Wednesday, Jan 6th: 6-8pm
Sunday, Jan 17th: 12-2pm
Monday, Jan 25th: 6-8pm

You will learn: casting on, knit stitch, purl stitch, binding off, weaving in ends

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials required:

1 skein Cascade 220
Size 8 knitting needles (straight bamboo needles are preferred, but metal needles or circular needles are acceptable)
Darning needle

Socks from the Toe Up - January 2010

2009-12-17T16:24:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, our resident expert, Rhonda, will be teaching socks from the toe-up in January.

To enroll in this class, you should already be comfortable with the basics (knit/purl, circular knitting, increase/decrease). You do not need to be familiar with sock-knitting.

Registration: Come in or email cleverknits@gmail.com to reserve your space in class. Advance payment is required. Refunds available only if we are able to fill your space in the class.

Cost: $54 for three 2hr sessions ($74 if yarn is purchased elsewhere)

Schedule: The Sock Knitting Class will be held on three consecutive Saturdays from 1-3pm starting January 16th.

Jan 16th: Intro to toe-up socks, casting on, making the toe
Jan 23rd: Gusset and heel turn
Jan 30th: Finishing, additional questions, 2nd sock help

You will learn:
Magic Loop Method
Figure 8 cast-on
Heel Turn
Gusset
Toe Increase

Limit: 7 students, advance registration is required (classes will be canceled and all fees refunded if we do not have at least 3 students signed up).

Materials:

Sock yarn (enough to make 2 socks -- for most sock yarns this is one 100g skein)
Size 2 circular knitting needle, either 32" or 40"(if you plan on doing 2 socks at once in the future go with the longer 40" cord)
Darning needle
Stitch markers

Knitnews #4: Clever Knits Updates for December 2009

2009-12-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

Clever Knitters,

The holidays are here in full swing, can you tell we're a little behind at the Yarn House? The month is half over and I'm finally getting this out to you!

Contents of this message:

1. Open Christmas Day! - Closed Dec 24, but open Christmas Day from 12-6pm. Come knit with us!
2. Shop Vista - spend $300 in the City of Vista before Dec 31, get $30 back
3. Holiday Knits - some ever-so-last-minute holiday pattern ideas
4. January Classes - Knit & Crochet 101, Toe-up Socks
5. Crazy Quilt CAKAL and Drawing - world's craziest barn-raising sock-yarn quilt
6. As always - knitnight Tues 6-10pm, Open Knit Sunday 2-6pm, free wireless, yarnstorm

1. Closed Christmas Eve -- but OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY!

No kidding! We will be open on Christmas Day from 12-6pm.

My family does the whole dinner-thing on Christmas Eve, so we're taking the day off on December 24th to be together and eat lasagne. However, we will be OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY from 12-6pm, in case you have any super-duper last-minute gift-getting to do for the knitter in your life. Or maybe you just need a break from the chaos of your own holiday festivities, come escape for an hour of knitting while the turkey is cooking. Or maybe you're itching to spend your Christmas Cash, and we're the only shop that's open. In any case, we've got you covered.

2. Shop Vista - get $30

The City of Vista is offering a Holiday Purchase Incentive Program, in which they are offering a $30 Visa gift card to each household spending $300 within city limits. Free money? Yes please! Stock up on yarn and put a little extra something in your stocking! Details can be found on our website at http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/shop-vista-get-30.html

3. Ever-so-last-minute Holiday Knits

I've been busy posting a few darling pattern ideas for last-minute knits, and some gift ideas for your knitterly friends on our website (I just started my holiday knitting last week, so my needles have been frantic):

* Gifts for knitters: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/holiday-news-gift-ideas-for-knitters.html
* Re-create a $65 designer hat for under $25: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/plural-of-moose-is-moose.html
* Some adorable last-minute holiday knits: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/last-minute-holiday-knitting-ideas.html

4. Learn to Knit/Crochet in January

Knit/Crochet 101:
January will be the month of 101 -- so tell your friends to make good of their new-year's resolution to learn a new craft. Studies show that fiber arts are as relaxing as yoga for the mind and spirit. A super-cute gift idea for a friend who has always wanted to learn: a skein of Cascade 220, knitting needles or a crochet hook, and a gift certificate to one of our knit or crochet 101 class -- under $25 for the whole package!

KNIT 101 will be offered: Jan 6 (Wed), 17 (Sun), 25 (Mon) - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/knit-101-january-2010.html

CROCHET 101 will be offered: Jan 9 (Sat), 13 (Wed), 31 (Sun) - details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/crochet-101-january-2010.html

Socks from the Toe Up:
By popular demand, our resident expert, Rhonda, will be teaching socks from the toe-up. The class will be held Saturdays, Jan 16, 23, and 30th, $54 plus materials for all 3 sessions ($74 if yarn is purchased elsewhere).
details: http://cleverknits.com/2009/12/socks-from-toe-up-january-2010.html

5. Crazy Quilt CAKAL and Drawing

We're STILL working on a wild crochet-and-knit-a-long (cakal?) -- the world's craziest barn-raising sock-yarn quilt. Everyone who contributes a square, rectangle, triangle, rhombus (whatever shape floats your boat) gets an entry in the drawing to win the final product! Pieces can be knit or crochet in any stitch pattern or needle size that tickles your fancy. We ask only that all contributions are made from Superwash Sock Yarn in at least 75% wool. We have a bucket full of scraps, and are still working on accumulating enough squares to have a big enough quilt.

6. As Always

knitnight:
We WILL have knitnight next Tuesday, Dec 22nd.

Our knitnight Tuesdays from 6-10pm continue to be an exciting and popular opportunity to come hang out and make new knitterly friends. All fiber artists are welcome (crochet, needlepoint, spinning, cat’s cradle, etc)! Feel free to come by even if you just need a stash-fix or a needle, or want to see what all the fuss is about – you don’t HAVE to stay, but you are more than welcome to.

We also have open knit/crochet on Sundays from 2-6pm, and the Oceanside Knitters (ravelry link) meet here on Fridays from 5-8pm (though you needn't be an Oceanside resident to attend -- they're a very open and friendly bunch, and most of them come Tuesdays and/or Sundays, too).

Free wireless:
Don't forget that we offer free wireless to our customers and their knitcomplices, so bring that laptop to browse ravelry or check a pattern on knitty, or whip out your iPhone and make use of our speedy fast connection to learn a new technique on youtube.

Yarnstorm 09:
There's still a chance to bring some yarn graffiti to decorate our ducts and GET 15% OFF your entire purchase that day! Swatches need to be 26 inches in length and anywhere from 4-10" wide, made of ANY yarn in your stash (they just need to look pretty). This offer is valid until the ducts are fully covered in yarn graffiti -- and they're nearly full!

Warm (& sweatery) regards,
Helena, Karen, & Lexi

Clever Knits
214 S. Indiana Ave
Vista CA 92084

open 12-8pm daily
FREE knitnights Tuesdays 6-10pm

http://cleverknits.com
cleverknits@gmail.com
phone: 760.806.6744

Holiday news & gift ideas for knitters

2009-12-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that we will be closed on Christmas Eve (December 24th). My family does the whole dinner-thing on Christmas Eve, so we're taking the day off to be together and eat lasagne. However, we will be OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY from 12-6pm, in case you have any super-duper last-minute gift-getting to do for the knitter in your life. Or maybe you just need a break from the chaos of your own holiday festivities, come escape for an hour of knitting while the turkey is cooking. Or maybe you're itching to spend your Christmas Cash, and we're the only shop that's open.

In any case, we've got you covered. I'm also posting a delightful guide, sort of a Knitter's Wish List. We've also put together a couple of gorgeous kits in case of a need for last-minute presents.

Kits, priced from roughly $30-$80 depending on the kit:

O-Wool hat kit: includes O-Wool pattern, 1 skein O-Wool Classic yarn, and Crystal Palace size 8 DPNs.

This is one of the most affordable kits, and a great gift for an organic-friendly knitter (or any knitter really).

Cashmere mitts kit: includes Churchmouse Classics pattern, 1 skein Jade Sapphire cashmere yarn (needles can be purchased separately).

This decadent kit is a DREAM for any knitter, with cashmere yarn and an amazing, simple pattern.

Cashmere-blend Sock Kit: includes 1 skein Jade Sapphire cashmere-blend yarn, 1 set of sock-blockers, and 1 set of Lantern Moon Sox Stix.

Perfect for any sock-knitter!

Decadent scarf kit: includes wool, cotton, and mohair yarn, and size 11 needles (bag can be purchased separately).

Inspired by the Purl Scarf (ravelry link), a simple 1x1 rib hat becomes rich and decadent when 3 different yarns are held together.

Or if you'd like to put a kit of your own together, we have lots of lovely items that are likely to appear on many a knitter's wish list:

Beautiful Lantern Moon ebony straight needles and sox stix.

4-ply Cashmere -- a decadent sport-weight cashmere, one 55g/200yd skein is enough to make a gorgeous pair of fingerless mitts, or a beautiful cowl-scarf.

Silk taffeta bags in every color under the sun, perfect for a project bag, priced under $12, would also make a lovely gift bag for a special hand-knit item.

Shameless Knits handmade needle cases are a delightful fun way to store circulars.

And OF COURSE, Addi Clicks -- a beautiful set of interchangeable needles from Addi, makers of the perfect circular knitting needles.

The plural of moose is...reindeer?

2009-12-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

I've been lusting over this amazing Olympic hat since I first saw it mentioned (I no longer recall by which of my favourite knit-bloggers/tweeters). But $65 is a bit of an absurd price-tag, even for designer knitwear. So I spent a cozy morning in bed with my cup of coffee and reverse-engineered the pattern from the photos. And a clever commentator on Ravelry pointed out to me, those aren't moose, they're reindeer! So, I am pleased to bring you the Olympic Reindeer Hat as a free ravelry download!

Shop Vista - get $30

2009-12-07T16:14:00.000-08:00

The City of Vista is offering a Holiday Purchase Incentive Program, in which they are offering a $30 Visa gift card to each household spending $300 within city limits. Free money? Yes please! Stock up on yarn and put a little extra something in your stocking!

How to participate:

Spend a total of $300 or more at any retailer(s) - yarn shops, movie theaters, grocery stores, whatever! - in the City of Vista between November 26, 2009 and December 31, 2009. Gather up your receipts and bring them to the Finance/Cashier office at City Hall before January 29, 2010, and they will give you a $30 Visa gift card.

More information can be found at http://shopvista.biz.

Clever Knits is also offering 10% off any purchase to customers with a ShopVista Loyalty Card. These cards offer discounts from other Vista retailers as well, and can be picked up at any of three locations:

* Vista Chamber of Commerce at 201 Washington St
* Vista Village Business Association at 127 Main St
* Vista City Hall Cashier's Office at corner of Alta Vista and Escondido Ave

Last-minute holiday knitting ideas

2009-12-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

The time has come for ever-so-last-minute holiday knitting. I just started my holiday knitting YESTERDAY, if you can believe it, and I am thrilled to find a healthy assortment of DARLING patterns for super-quick knits.

Of course, there are dozens of books and magazines, old and new, filled with one and two-skein patterns. I have in the shop Interweave's latest special issue on 'Knit Accessories' which is filled with fantastic quick-knit projects (and let us not forget Interweave's current rebate offering - $5 towards any Interweave product purchased here at your LYS).

But there are also many free patterns available for some darling little tidbits -- and here are two of my new favourites:

For starters, I have fallen MADLY in love with Flint Knits' new pattern for Elf Shoes. I made one men's shoe in a single day, so a pair of these could easily be whipped together in a weekend (or a single day if making a kid size). The pattern recommends size 10.5 DPNs, but since the project is felted to fit, and since I much prefer the magic-loop method, it could certainly be done on a long circular needle in size 10 or 11. AND it's in the favourite Cascade 220, an awesomely affordable felting wool which comes in a huge range of colours (I have an excellent and ever-expanding selection of them here in the shop).

This morning I met with my Crystal Palace sales rep, who showed me some of their darling new patterns, including the Mochi Plus Swirl Hat, which is not only quick but also quite simple, since it is worked as a scarf-like strip and then stitches are picked up for the crown.

Also free is my own pattern for Perfect Mitts, knit out of a single skein of chunky-weight alpaca (Cascade's Baby Alpaca Chunky is an excellent choice for this pattern). These are super-fast and make a lovely gift for typists, knitters, or anyone who uses their hands a lot in cold weather.