Jenny Wrap

Alexa — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:19:15 +0000

Since I’ve been back in the shop it seems that people are knitting one thing: the Jenny Wrap by Amanda Kaffka. I haven’t gone one day without someone exclaiming ‘Where is this pattern and what yarn do I need?!’. It’s quickly becoming a phenomenon.

There are at least 2 reasons I think people are so enthused about Jenny. The first is the number of yarn combinations available and the gauge flexibility. The original Jenny was knit with a chunky alpaca held together with a strand of mohair. Why am I being rather vague about the gauge? It isn’t really crucial. Something kinda chunky with something kinda thin works. Something medium held together with something else medium works. Something medium with 2 thin yarns works. It’s anything goes! The fabric of the Jenny wrap is a little on the looser side so if your yarn combo is a little thicker or a little thinner, the wrap will just be a little denser or a little more open. Find a combo that works out to a chunky weight in the end, that’s all there is to it.

There is also a lot of flexibility in the yarn type. Originally it was knit up in an Alpaca and a Mohair, but the current model in the shop has sequins. People have knit it in merino, silk, mohair, acrylic, sparkles, you name it! The Jenny wrap is also versatile in it’s wear. Around the neck, over a coat, around the shoulders, dress it up or dress it down. Make yourself one of these gorgeous wardrobe pieces in your personal combination!

Valentines around the Corner!

Alexa — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:59:48 +0000

There seem to be two different camps on Valentines day. There are those cynical individuals (sometimes, but not always, single) who can’t understand why people would celebrate such a hallmark holiday, and there are those who are all to excited to show everyone they know how much they adore them. Do you fit under the ‘hearts all around’ camp or the Valentines equivalent of a bah humbug?

If you are feeling festive and want to show it with knitwear, there are many many options. A quick Ravelry search for ‘heart’ turns up over 11,000 matches! I’ve knit these crazy couple’s mittens for a February 14th past, but I think a lovely pair of subtly heart themed fair isle mittens might fit the bill this year.

Freja by Emmy Petersson is a free pattern from the ever popular Knitty. These lovely mittens take just 175 yards of each colour in a fingering weight yarn (sock weight/28 stitches per 4 inches) and 2.5mm needles.

Toasty Mittens

Alexa — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:58:33 +0000

I just came across some seriously gorgeous mittens. I was just minding my own business and BAM there they were. They took me by surprise. They are Borough by Veronica O’Neil and they look amazing! These mittens can be found amongst a fabulous collection of patterns in the latest Knitty. I was just starting to think that perhaps the photographs of carrying wood were what won me over (I always miss camping in the middle of winter), but no, the mittens are awesome.

I realize they are probably technically designed for boys but I say, not to worry! Is there really a gender to mittens?! And the best thing of all? They are knit in one of my favorite indulgences, Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand Dyes. The yarn is soft, it has excellent stitch definition and it’s nice and warm on the hands for those windy days out there.

Zealana Event

Alexa — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:27:43 +0000

We have many interesting fibers at Urban Yarns, from Bison and Cashmere to Silk and Mohair, the list is really rather endless. One of the most unusual is the Possum fibers from Zealana Yarns.

There is something a little different about possum, the halo it has when it’s knit up is dark and the yarn, while seaming rather ordinary in the ball, comes to life once it’s been knit up. People are always asking what fabulous yarn our pink sample is knit up in and once they feel they ball there is an inevitable ‘really?’. The yarn softens up, the halo comes through, and it blooms as well. Like I said, a little different!

If you are dying to know more about this interesting yarn join us this Thursday for a yarn tasting and guest speaker Jimad Kahn, from New Zealand. There will be a slideshow and a QnA as well as wine and cheese to enjoy. This event is free of charge. Hope to see you there!

Sweet Shawlettes

Alexa — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 04:20:40 +0000

Ceilidh

Jean Moss, knitwear extraordinaire has recently published her latest book, Sweet Shawlettes, and lucky me I got a sneak peak! This new book has 25 designs and I’m pretty sure you’ve never seen anything like it. The textures, techniques, and styles are incredibly varied so there is something for everyone.

Friday January 27th we will be giving away a copy of Jean’s book at knit night via a draw at 9pm. Put your name in the draw starting at 6. Jean was good enough to answer a few of my questions about her new book and her design inspirations.

Penumbra

Jean, your shawl designs are so delightfully varied, where do you draw your inspiration from?

My career has always been fashion-led, so each season I look at the trends. I also love street fashion and like nothing better than to sit in the sun with a cup of coffee and observe what people are wearing - especially in the big cities. I’m also fascinated by old fashion illustrations, the designs of David Downton, Rene Gruau and Erte are mega-inspiring. My camera is always to hand and I take many pictures of interesting objects, people and places - looking back over themoften sows the seeds of new designs.

2. You have so many different shawlette constructions, do your designs influence the construction or the other way around?

Previously most of my books have concentrated mainly on sweaters, and Sweet Shawlettes gave me the opportunity to explore a totally different form. Shawls, capes, cowls, furbelows or anything that can be worn around the neck was the brief and I was thrilled to find as many ways of interpreting it as I could. I usually sketch a design and then I look at the possibilities for construction, yarn, stitch and techniques. Being an incorrigible technique freak, I love to pass on as many as I can through my designs and shawlettes seemed like the perfect medium for offering tasters, without the commitment of a larger piece, either in time or yarn.

3. With so many fibers and colours to choose from, how do you make your yarn selections?

I’m very keen on sustainable and ethical fibres and would have liked ideally to include more than eventually made it into the book. However, the timeframe of the book was so tight, I knew I had to use yarns I’m familiar with and trust, so in the end the majority of the projects used many different Rowan yarns, including their gorgeous eco-yarns. Trying out new yarns is one of the bonuses of writing a book and it was like Christmas opening the box when it arrived from Rowan - twenty-four different qualities, each one as fabulous as the next. I’ve been using their yarns for many years now, so I can make confident choices, knowing that they won’t be far off the mark.
4. From 25 patterns, do you have a favourite?

I find it hard to design knits I wouldn’t wear myself, so it’s fair to say I’ve loved each project in turn as I’ve designed it. However, the project I chose to knit for friends this Xmas was Drift from the Couture chapter. I love big cables and this easy cowl has the bonus that it’s quick to knit and fabulously wearable – I’ve rarely had such positive feedback from everyone who received it!

5. What exciting projects do you have on the horizon? I can’t wait to see what’s next!

This year we have two upcoming knitters’ tours – Lakes & York in May and Knit Ireland in September. We put a lot of work into making sure everything goes like clockwork, so we’ll be frantically dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s over the next couple of months. Knit Ireland is full, but there are still a few places on Lakes & York so if you or any of your readers fancy eleven days of total knit immersion with kindred spirits, get in touch or visit the website for a taster. Knitwise I always have things on the go. I’m in negotiation with Taunton for a new book. Can’t say a whole lot about it other than it’s developing one aspect of Sweet Shawlettes and applying it to other small projects. I’d also like to play more music, perhaps get a band together performing, amongst other things, eine kleine knit music.

Green at Heart

Twin Peaks

Alexa — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:22:52 +0000

Hooray for knitting weather! In usual true Vancouverite form, a few inches of snow has us all trapped in our houses. Hopefully you all have extensive stashes to choose from or you can muster the courage to go out for more yarn or those needles your project so desperately requires.

I think a lovely pair of wintery knee socks are just the ticket to cure the snowstorm chills and the trapped-at-home doldrums. These lovelies are knit up in a wonderful new yarn (alright, I think we’ve had it for a bit but I really noticed for the first time last week) Vista from Classic Elite. It’s an alpaca and wool blend (50/50) and it knits up at a quick 19 stitches per 4 inches. The yarn is undyed so it comes in a select few sheepy shades, natural neutrals.

Another great yarn from the same collection is the Vail. It comes in the same natural colours but it is an Alpaca/Bamboo blend (70/30) and it knits up at 27 stitches per 4 inches. I’m plotting some lace in this super soft and drapey yarn.

Goodale

Alexa — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:17:04 +0000

Although it may not seem this way, January is the perfect time to cast on for a spring cardigan. While spring may seem to be a far off dream at the moment (it’s zero degrees out as I write this) it really is coming and it’s nice to finish a garment in time for the season it’s intended for. While perusing the many cardigan patterns out there I was immediately drawn to the more wintry items but practicality won out and I’m plotting a Goodale Cardigan.

The greatness of this cardigan is all in the details. How great is that cute pocket?! The enclosure at the top is also the perfect platform for a couple of great buttons. It’s the perfect cardigan for me and my darling new knitter Emily is casting on one for herself as well. She will be working in the ever popular Madelinetosh DK in the colourway Tart. It’s a little thicker than the recommended gauge but I think it’ll work out just fine. I, on the other hand, have yet to choose the perfect sport weight to work in. I have always enjoyed the softness and range of colour in the Blue Sky Alpacas Sport, but there is also the stunning Rowan Lima to consider. So many options, so little time!

Hap

Alexa — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 21:03:32 +0000

I’m always on the lookout for a great baby blanket pattern. It seems as though there are lots of beautiful hand-knit baby blankets in the world, but hardly anyone is bothering to write down the pattern! There is a certain combination of stitches that I find irresistible in a baby blanket, garter and lace. Baby blankets need to have that certain squishy-ness that some garter stitch gives them but a little lace makes for a pretty and delicate item, perfect for baby.

Michael has just put out a gorgeous new pattern, the Hap Baby blanket. It has everything I’m looking for and it’s knit in a nice chunky yarn. There are many a pattern out there calling for a fingering weight in a blanket but that seems slightly insane. Am I saying I would NEVER knit such a thing? Of course not! It just doesn’t call to me as much as an aran weight or bulkier. One skein of Cascade Eco Wool will do the trick!

January Classes

Alexa — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 01:32:39 +0000

Had a slow start to your January? No problem, we’ve got classes starting in the next couple of weeks, plenty of time to sign up and learn something new! We also have a ton of QnA times if you have a project you are stuck on, just give us a call!

MONDAY

MR. FOX STOLE YOUR HEART

(advanced beginner)

(With Deanna Krushinsky)

This whimsical stole is reminiscent of the foxes round the ladies of the 1940”s. Deanna walks you through the steps and techniques to knit this vintage piece.

Supply requirements: pattern (Tiny Owl Knits); yarn suggestion: Lima, Silk Cloud, alpaca cotton, pastaza; 7mm needles & DPNs

Time: 6:30-8:30pm

Dates: January 23, 30 & Feb 06

Cost: $75.00 + HST

MONDAY

BEGINNER CROCHET

(beginner)

(With Deanna Krushinsky)

Learn the basics of crochet with stitches such as the slip stitch, single crochet, half-double crochet double crochet, and the triple crochet, increasing and decreasing, and crocheting in the round. You will also learn chaining and working back and forth in rows from a foundation chain. If time allows, basic pattern reading skills will be taught. Most will have time to start some sort of beginner project, or you can make swatches and turn them into a scarf in the end.

Supply requirements: crochet hook 5mm; DK weight yarn (wool or acrylic is best, opposed to cotton or novelty yarn.

Time: 6:30-8:30pm

Dates: Feb 20, 27, March 05 & 12

Cost: $95.00 + HST

TUESDAY

BEGINNER KNITTING

(beginner)

(With Amanda Kaffka)

Have fun learning the basics of knitting. This is a techniques based class where you will learn to cast on/off, knit and purl for the first time, or if you have learnt years ago but need a refresher this is the class for you. It is always encouraged to start a simple and easy project in this class that will help solidify the techniques in practice and teaches pattern reading skills.

Supply requirements: For first time learners, any chunky yarn & 6mm; or yarn for a project of your choice (we can help you during class time pick the appropriate yarn/pattern/needles).

Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm

Dates: January 24, 31, Feb 7 & 14

Cost: $95.00 + HST

TUESDAY

BEYOND BEGINNER KNITTING

(advanced beginner)

(With Amanda Kaffka)

Wanting to go to that next level? Join the beyond beginner class with Amanda where she will help you pick a pattern, yarn and needles that will challenge you to learn new skills and techniques. Learn to read patterns and understand the abbreviations and new stitches along with finishing techniques

Supply requirements: A pattern & yarn of your choice (we can help you select a pattern & yarn)

Time: 12:15-2:15pm

Dates: January 24, 31, Feb 7 & 14

Cost: $95.00 + HST

TUESDAY

FIDDLEHEAD MITTENS

(intermediate)

(With Alexa Ludeman)

These classic Fiddlehead Mittens are super popular and fun to knit! Alexa takes you through the techniques of Fair Isle and chart reading.

Supply requirements: Pattern (purchase on line); yarn suggestion: BSA sport/mélange (2 main colour, 1 each of contrasting colours, 2 brushed suri)

Time: 6:30 – 8:30pm

Dates: January 17, 24, 31 & Feb 07

Cost: $95.00 + HST

TUESDAY

TRENDY SLOUCHY HAT

(advanced beginner)

(With Michael Wynne)

This fashion foward hat suitable for both men and women is a great knit for your self or as a special gift; just in time for the cooling weather and holiday season. Join Michael as he walks you through the techniques needed to knit this perfectly slouchy hat, like i-cord cast on, and basic cables.

Supply requirements: Pattern Fulton; yarn: 20 - 22 st yarn (ideas: Madelintosh, peartree 8ply); 4.5mm & cable needle (optional)

Time: 7:00 – 9:00pm

Dates: Jan 17 & 24

Cost: $50.00 + HST

TUESDAY

CABLE SAMPLER PILLOW

(advanced beginner)

(With Michael Wynne)

Knit this timeless cable sampler pillow to add the perfect accent in any room. Knitted décor always adds a soft, beautiful look to any space.

Learn the basics of cabling creating a 4 square pillow and solid back.

Supply requirements: 18 st gauge yarn in a light colour 500 meters (250m for front & 250m for back. & pattern sold in store.

Time: 6:30 – 8:30pm

Dates: January 31, Feb 7, 14 & 8

Cost: $95.00 + HST

WEDNESDAY

KID’S CLUB

(all levels ages 6 – 12)

(With Amanda Kaffka)

Let’s have fun knitting and learning the basics, making a simple garter stitch scarf or fingerless gloves or little simple animals. All levels welcome from learning to knit for the very first time to pros!

Supply requirements: first timers, we recommend a chunky yarn and 6mm needles; those wanting to start a project 1 ball of anything and needles to match yarn (novelty yarn is not encouraged).

Time: 3:30 – 4:30

Dates: January 25, Feb 1, 8 & 15

Cost: $50.00 + HST

WEDNESDAY

BEGINNER KNITTING

(beginner)

(With Amanda Kaffka)

Supply requirements: For first time learners, any chunky yarn & 6mm; or yarn for a project of your choice (we can help you during class time pick the appropriate yarn/pattern/needles).

Time: 6:00 - 8:00pm

Dates: January 25, Feb 1, 8 & 15

Cost: $75.00 + HST

WEDNESDAY

JUNEBERRY SHAWL

(intermediate)

(With Alison Holley)

Jared Flood’s patterns are always spectacular and the Juneberry Shawl is no acception! Alison will take you through the steps of this lace pattern and chart reading.

Supply requirements: yarn 480 yds of worsted or sport weight; pattern; 5.5mm needles

Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm

Dates: January 25, Feb 1, 8 & 15

Cost: $95.00 + HST

THURSDAY

KID’S CLUB

(all levels ages 6 – 12)

(With Amanda Kaffka)

Supply requirements: first timers, we recommend a chunky yarn and 6mm needles; those wanting to start a project 1 ball of anything and needles to match yarn (novelty yarn is not encouraged).

Time: 3:30 – 4:30

Dates: January 26, Feb 2, 9 & 16

Cost: $50.00 + HST

THURSDAY

BEYOND BEGINNER KNITTING

(beginner)

(With Sandra Dunkin)

Now that you’ve learned the basic’s of knitting, and can’t wait to make a more advanced project, come join the beyond beginner knitting class. From learning to read a pattern, to finishing techniques, Sandra will coach you through the obstacle course of your first garment.

Supply requirements: Basic pattern of your choice and the yarn and needles that is specifies.

Time: 6:30-8:30pm

Dates: January 19, 26, Feb 2 & 9

Cost: $95.00 + HST

THURSDAY

GENTLEMEN’S KNIT CLUB

(all levels)

(With Michael Wynne)

Got Balls? Then join us in an exclusive weekly men’s knit night. Bring your knitting or start a new project. All skill levels not only welcome, but encouraged. Let’s see how much testosterone we can drum up in a knitting store!

Time: 7 – 9pm

Date: Weekly

Cost: FREE

SATURDAY

SOCK BOOT CAMP

(advanced beginner)

(With Jackie Blackmore)

Learn to knit a sock in just one evening! Basic knitting skills are required and knowledge of knitting on DPN’s expected. You will knit a top-down, mini training sock on 4 DPN’s by the end of the 3 hour class. An educational “Sock Knitting” handout and a free sock pattern will be included.

Supply requirements: 3.25mm or 3/5mm DPN and a small ball of aran weight yarn

Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Dates: Session A: January 7

Session B: Feb 04

Session C: March 04

Cost: $40.00 + HST

SATURDAY
ENTRELAC SCARF WORKSHOP

(advanced beginner)

(With Alison H.)

Entrelac looks complex but the technique is easy to understand and looks impressive! In this class you will cast on and then knit 3 base triangles. Once the set up is complete we will work 2 passes across the scarf, which are the fundamental rows for knitting entrelac.

Supply requirements: Pattern provided; 4 skeins Noro Silk Garden, or similar weight yarn; 4mm needles

Time: 1:00 – 4:30pm

Dates: January 21

Cost: $40.00 + HST

SATURDAY
SOCKS KNIT ON 2 CIRCULAR NEEDLES

(intermediate)

(With Alexa Ludeman)

Are you an avid sock knitter who wants to learn a new technique to knit up your feet warmers? Well, this might be the course for you! Alexa shows you the steps to using 2 circular needles instead of DPN’s.

Time: 10:30 – 12:30pm

Dates: January 28, Feb 11 + 18th

Cost: $75.00 + HST

SUNDAY

PTARMIGAN

(advanced beginner; able to read charts)

(With Alison H.)

Brooklyn Tweed’s Ptarmigan is a simple, yet warm and lovely lace cowl knit in the round. This cowl is the perfect neck piece to transition from winter to spring.

Supply requirements: Brooklyn Tweed’s pattern Ptarmigan pattern; 175 – 220 yd sport/DK yarn; 4 – 4.5mm 16- 24” needles

Time: 3:00 – 5:00

Dates: January 22 & 29

Cost: $50.00 + HST + cost of pattern + supplies

Kynna Strikes Again!

Alexa — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 07:03:50 +0000

I so enjoy perusing the projects of friends on Ravelry. There’s a certain amount of excitement whenever I see that someone has finished an ongoing project or even popped up with something I didn’t even know they were working on. It feels a little bit wrong somehow, just checking up on people without them knowing it, but their projects are so full of pride and inspiration when they post them!

Kynna never disappoints, her two newest projects are just stunning. Both in colours I have a serious affinity for, Madelinetosh Glazed Pecan and Tart. First up is Rose Red by Ysolda Teague. I think Kynna has knit more than half of all the Ysolda patterns by now, if not she’ll get there soon!

Next is a popular pattern, the Honey Cowl. Simple but fun, the pattern shows off the stunning yarn and subtle colour variations. To make a Honey Cowl of your own you will need about 400 yards of a dk weight yarn, something soft and sumptuous to kick off the new year!