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Counting the days until
Bedford Springs Knittreat

We have been busy sorting yarns, yarns and more yarns… as well as books and giveaways for the Bedford Springs Knittreat. Our Sponsors (including, from top, AslanTrends, Holiday Yarns Dye Studio and SpaceCadet Creations) sent a lovely assortment of yarns, and we’ll have some extra gifts that you will see in upcoming newsletters and in this issue.

Jim Bryson, from Bryson Distributing sent four sets of bamboo needles, complete with a beautiful fabric case. We have three to give away at the Knittreat and one to give away to a Festival Update reader (see later in this issue for details)!

With such a broad selection of needles being manufactured, there are so many choices: Addi’s, aluminum, plastic, acrylic, straight, squares, rounds and various woods. Wooden needles, according to the Waldorf method, is best suited for young people learning how to knit or crochet. Wood is a natural material and is warm when handled. With the holidays just around the corner, the bamboo needle set would be a perfect gift for anyone.

Our Feltloom studio play date is tomorrow (Oct. 17). We have space if your schedule opens up last minute. We’ll be at Terri Stramba’s farm at 1 p.m. for about two or three hours. Just show up if you can make it! Her address is: 2331 Chewton Wurtenburg Rd. Wampum, PA 16157. She is approximately 45 minutes north of the Four Points Sheraton where the Festival is held. If you are unable to attend, you can look forward to working with different Feltloom models that we will have at the Festival.

With Warm Regards,

Barb

Barb’s book review and giveaway: Sweet & Simple Baby Crochet

As you may already know, I personally do not crochet… but I understand the concept, and my daughter Sarah likes to crochet. We both took a look at the book Sweet & Simple Baby Crochet by Kristi Simpson, RAKJ Patterns. Our first reaction to the book was “awww”! It looks as if Kristi teamed up with Anne Geddes, the famous photographer who published many baby books years ago.

The infants here are nestled in crocheted pea pods, in baskets, and in yarn cocoons. The babies are wearing the most adorable hats — a moose hat, a puppy hat, an owl hat, elephant ears hat (the cover photo) and Gatsby-style hats.

Kristi also offers blanket ideas, clothing patterns and not-too-often-seen clothes for boys. All too often, clothing for boys can be stiff and uncomfortable. The boy outfits found in this book are sure to let the little rompers move and play with ease.

Kristi has written clear, step-by-step instructions. She makes recommendations for yarns, and the pictures are as sweet as can be.
Although the use of yarns is always debatable, and a personal preference, many people prefer not to use acrylics for babies. Acrylics are easy for wash and wear, and there are many soft acrylics; however, when choosing a yarn for winter wear and for the very young, don’t forget the many superwash merinos that are perfect for baby use. They do not felt when thrown into the washing machine, making them a good choice for a newborn.

Cottons are another good choice, which Kristi frequently suggests in the book. Bamboos, alpaca, corn, milk or soy-based yarns are also good choices if you are uncertain whether baby will have a wool allergy. One yarn not to use for infants, though, is angora. I was told years ago by an angora breeder that the fibers are too long, and shed, and can potentially present a choking hazard. Regardless of whether this is an old wives’ tale, I would err on the side of caution and not use angora for a very little child. As we know, children have a tendency to put everything into their mouths!

Kristi is a young mother of five children, I don’t know when she finds time to crochet, much less write a book, but a nice comment from her: ” buying cute clothes and hats that your baby will outgrow in just a few months is an indulgence not everyone can afford.” Many of the items are so quick and easy to make, maybe this is the perfect way to unwind after a whole day with five young children.
We have one book for a sweepstakes giveaway this issue, and we’ll have another copy at the Bedford Springs Knittreat for a second giveaway.

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per prize, per person, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by Nov. 1, 2013, with the subject line of “Sweet & Simple Baby Crochet.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Bonus giveaway: Bryson Distributing Needle Set

Thanks go to Jim Bryson and the team at Bryson Distributing for generously donating this set, complete with case, for a lucky reader!

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per prize, per person, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by Nov. 1, 2013, with the subject line of “Bryson Distributing Needle Set.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

September sweepstakes winners announced

For the Annie’s Crafts sweepstakes last month, Nancy Powell of Slippery Rock, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of Karen McKenna‘s Elegant, Fashionable, Chic Accessories to Crochet book, while Barb Wudkwych of Hickory, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of Kim Guzman‘s Learn Drop Stitch Crochet book. Then for Kraemer Yarns’ Perfection skeins, Jeannette Wakim, Wheeling, WV, was the randomly drawn winner. Congratulations to all!

Festival Update is published by

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P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

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2014 Festival continues to take shape

We still have lots to do before the Festival takes place next spring, but here are a couple of updates:

1. Thanks to Terri Stramba at Stramba Farm Alpacas and More, we’ve finished some beautiful felted centerpieces for the dinner and luncheons at the Festival. In fact, we are planning a return visit to Terri’s farm on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 1:30 p.m. for a studio play date. We’ll continue to make more centerpieces for two luncheons and a dinner.

2. We’ll have a private dinner and a luncheon with our VERY special guest, #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Debbie Macomber.

3. We’re preparing a special charity event involving the donation of 18-inch dolls and handmade outfits for them. Now’s a great time to check your yarn stash so you can start knitting or crocheting the outfits. If you’re fresh out of 18-inch doll patterns, may we suggest Nicky Epstein’s latest two books, which we reviewed in the Aug. 7 issue. We’ll keep you updated with participating yarn stores and drop-off locations. Nicky will feature a full doll display with the dolls dressed in all of the outfits from both books. Remember her Barbie Display at the 2011 Festival? This promises to be just as fun!

4. A Kick Off the Festival Weekend Fashion Show & Luncheon is in the works. Details next issue…

With Warm Regards,

Barb

More shopping opportunities at Knittreat!

If you were unable to sign up for our Knittreat event taking place Nov. 7-8-9-10, but live near the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, we invite you to stop into the Market Friday and Saturday (Nov. 8-9) from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Kathy’s Kreations, Soft n’ Sassy and Embroidered for You will have an assortment of yarns, kits and accessories available.

Barb’s yarn review: Perfection

Kraemer Yarns, also known as Kraemer Textiles, sits proudly on Main Street in Nazareth, PA. Just as their website states, it’s a “living, breathing testament to small-town Americana — spinning dozens of varieties of yarn from natural and synthetic fibers that will become lovingly crafted handmade items. We’re working hard to keep up with the rapidly growing demand for quality yarn.”

We have had a longstanding relationship with Kraemer Yarns. I have come to know their yarns and their staff members, and they are, in a nutshell, reliable, kind and trustworthy!

Eleanor Swogger is one of those people who has been involved with us for years. She has taught many of your favorite classes at the Festival, and Kraemer has always provided the yarn for the students Eleanor is teaching. She will be teaching the Slip Stitch Sampler Pillowcase at this year’s fall Knittreat at Bedford Springs. Kraemer will provide the yarn for the class, and they’ve sent me their latest yarns to review:

Perfection is not a new line, it has been a tried-and-true Kraemer yarn for as long as I can recall. What is new, though, are Perfection Super Bulky and Tapas!

Perfection Super Bulky (Yarn Weight #6) is a blend of domestic merino and acrylic. It is a soft, easy-care wool blend that won’t break the bank. Perfection Super Bulky is soft, but balanced with six plies and enjoyable to knit or crochet. It is very comfortable against the skin. It is great for quick projects such as hats, scarves, jackets, and some home decor. This weight of Perfection is available in a wide range of colors, with many more colors available in the near future. I personally see this as the “perfect” yarn for those oversized cowls that are so popular.

Perfection Tapas is a worsted-weight blend of domestic merino and acrylic. It is another soft, easy-care wool blend from Kraemer that won’t break the bank. The merino wool makes this blend one of the softest around. It is very comfortable against the skin and there is a wide range of colors, the most recent are the” tweedy” ones.

The Perfection yarns work up well and are consistent. I have a skein of Super Bulky (April Shower) and one skein of Tapas (Arugula) for one lucky winner.

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by Oct. 15, 2013, with the subject line of “Perfection Yarn.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update, along with the winners from our Sept. 3 sweepstakes (which by the way, runs until Oct. 1! Check it out here!).

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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Barb is relaxing at the beach

While the summer is winding down, and the kids are back in school, we are relaxing on the beach in Virginia. It’s one final week of R&R until we dive full swing into final plans for the Fall Bedford Springs Knittreat and continue with plans for the Festival.

A couple weeks ago, I had the opportunity to go to Stramba Farm Alpacas and More with a friend and my sister Ann for an afternoon of studio play. Not only did Terri Stramba give us a full tour of the mill, we worked with the feltloom, making centerpieces for the dinner and luncheons for the Festival. You can see photos from our day that Ann posted to our Facebook page, including the friendly alpaca pictured at left!

At the Festival, there will be an opportunity for you to play on the feltloom, too. We will have a full size loom there, and a free project for you to make on it. The possibilities are endless, from one-of-a-kind jackets, coats and scarves to creative artwork for your home.

We are planning another afternoon studio play day within the next couple weeks. Please let me know if you would like to join us. We’ll have space for about 10 in the group.

With Warm Regards,

Barb

A Fair in the Park takes place this weekend

A Fair in the Park takes place Sept. 6, 7, 8 at Pittsburgh’s Mellon Park. This free event is 45 years old, and features a variety of crafters from across the country. There is music, food and lots of shade in the park. Several of our Festival teachers and vendors showcase their items at the Fair, so be sure to stop by and see them if you can!

Barb’s yarn review: Rimu

I have finally had a chance to review another yarn I picked up in June at TNNA from Zealana. Rimu is a yarn made from the New Zealand brushtail possum.

Yes, possum. I realize that the immediate visual most of us have is that dead critter by the side of the road, but this isn’t the same animal at all! New Zealand’s brushtail possum yarn is as soft as merino, but without any itch associated with some animals. The Rimu is a blend of NZ fine merino and brushtail possum. It’s evenly spun, does not split, works up well and is very soft. It is the perfect yarn for every project on your list, from sweaters to small projects. The yarn comes in a variety of beautiful colors and is machine washable.

Using the possum is actually a form of management for the species’ overpopulation. According to information taken from Zealana’s website: “Since its introduction to New Zealand by fur traders in the late 19th century, the non-native brushtail possum population has reached staggering proportions, largely because of the lack of natural predators that would otherwise maintain an ecological balance. The consequences of their rapidly increasing numbers are many, including damaging impacts on New Zealand’s native flora and fauna.”

Consider that New Zealand’s human population is 4.4 million, and its possum population is 70 million! And that every 24 hours, these animals consume 21,000 metric tons of grass and plants.

Zealana is committed to the responsible management of the brushtail possum in New Zealand. So when you choose their yarns, you’re choosing to be part of their sustainability story.

TWO Sweepstakes Prizes, courtesy of Annie’s Crafts

This month, we have two crochet pattern books from Annie’s Crafts:

If you’re looking for a great booklet that covers the basics, try Elegant, Fashionable, Chic Accessories to Crochet by Karen McKenna. It covers six
Unique Accessory sets made using fingering, sport and worsted weight yarns.

For more advanced crocheters, there’s Learn Drop Stitch Crochet by Kim Guzman. The booklet explains a unique crochet technique made by using a crochet hook and a single knitting needle!

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by Oct. 1, 2013, with the subject line of either “Crochet Accessories” OR “Drop Stitch Crochet.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The two winners will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Sweepstakes winners announced

Beth Kuzma of Erie, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of the Nicky Epstein Knits for Dolls book, while Ruth Glass of Cranberry Township, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of the Nicky Epstein Crochet for Dolls book. Congratulations to them both!

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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Nicky Epstein returns to Pittsburgh Festival

Our good friend Nicky Epstein has agreed to come back to Pittsburgh to celebrate our 10-year anniversary! She’ll be on hand to meet with you, teach a class, and showcase her collection of 18-in. dolls.

Nicky has been busy again, with her two latest books: Knits for Dolls and Crochet for Dolls, 25 Fun, Fabulous Outfits for 18-inch Dolls. Similar to how she had her special Barbie doll display at the 2011 Festival, Nicky will display her full collection of 18-in. dolls, complete with outfits from the books. This display is sure to also be a favorite for all ages. Maybe you’ll plan to bring your daughter, granddaughter, niece or tell your local Girl Scout troop! See below in this issue for book reviews and giveaway details.

Along with the Doll Display, we are hosting a Charity Doll Round-Up with Nicky. With so many patterns so easy to do, we are asking that you make an outfit for an 18-in. doll and bring it either to the 2014 Festival or to a participating yarn store. (We’ll provide you with a list of official drop-off points for doll outfits at a later date.) If you prefer not to make an outfit and would like to donate an 18-in. doll, we’ll be collecting those also. Dolls must be new and remain in their package. Outfits will be packed by a volunteer group at the Festival. The dolls and outfits will be donated to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. So, look through your stash and see what you can use for an outfit for a doll. You have plenty of time and we will keep you informed with more details as they come in.

On a related note, we are in the process of accepting class submissions from teachers for the Festival in March. It seems like a long way off, but we are steeped in planning and preparations. We’ll have a full schedule with Debbie Macomber, Lily Chin, Nicky Epstein, StevenBe, plus all of your local favorite teachers. If you have a particular class or a teacher you would like to see on the schedule next year, please let us know via email at pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com.

With Warm Regards,

Barb

Make plans to see the Knit the Bridge Installation this weekend!

The Bridge Installation goes up Aug. 10-11, and comes down Sept. 7-8. Volunteers are helping with the Ground Installation and you can, too. Visit the official site here, and their Facebook page here, for the latest details!

Barb’s Book Reviews AND Sweepstakes Prizes: Nicky Epstein

This month, we have books for crochet and knit enthusiasts alike, both from the talented Nicky Epstein. Even better, she has graciously donated them as two separate sweepstake prizes this month!

Nicky Epstein Knits for Dolls, 25 Fun, Fabulous Outfits for 18-inch Dolls is cute, adorable and made me feel like a kid again. This book has been out for a few months, and has outfits for every season along with accessories to match. From casual outfits, sportswear, coats and dresses, a ballerina outfit, to a lace princess gown, you’ll be planning tea time with your young ones soon. Nicky has included in the back section some jewelry for the dolls and recipes for tea-time.

What’s not to like? This book has designs for every skill level, and the outfits are so small, they are sure to be a quick “little” project.

Nicky Epstein Crochet for Dolls, 25 Fun, Fabulous Outfits for 18-inch Dolls is not at the bookstores yet, but I have received a promotional copy for review. With a similar layout to the Knits for Dolls, this book features the most adorable outfits for crocheters to make. There’s a bathrobe in this collection with cozy kitten slippers to match, and I can’t wait to see them on display at the Festival! From vintage (a go-go girl) to the latest fashionwear: vests, jackets, and a blanket, Nicky has featured a variety of outfits perfect for every occasion for your dolls. There are many accessories that can be mixed and matched, so you and your girls are sure to have lots of fun with this book. I hope Nicky plans to come out with a collection that offers matching outfits for the dolls and their young owners next!

With every outfit being adorable, it was tough to pick a favorite one. My favorite in both books is the photo of Nicky at 3 years old on the inside back cover!

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by SEPT. 1, 2013, with the subject line of either “Nicky Knits” OR “Nicky Crochets.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The two winners will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Sweepstakes winner announced

Pam Zimmer of Erie, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of our most recent sweepstakes. She receives Luxury Yarn, One Skein Wonders, 101 Small Indulgences, edited by Judith Durant.
Congratulations, Pam!

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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Summer is finally here!

Copyright Babeth Raible

At long last, the rain has stopped. It’s hot, still humid but it finally feels like summer. I was beginning to feel like I lived in Seattle! I have all of my summer dresses out, but had to put away the sweaters. Too hot to wear a sweater, and even too hot for those sweet evening shawls. Check out our merchandise page for fun summertime alternative “knitted and crocheted” apparel.

Although the weather is hot, it is never too hot to knit or crochet, with so many alternative yarns and fibers available. I have a new yarn that I have reviewed for this issue that I thought it would be too hot to handle, but I was pleasantly surprised to find otherwise.

This might also be a good time to check out one of the many video classes offered at Craftsy, or take a class at your local yarn shop, try a new technique, or brush up on an old one. Stop on out to Cranberry Township where the Yarn Bombed trees are on display. The trees were part of the Community Day Celebration last weekend, but the trees are still on display. Our friends, the Butler Spinners and Weavers Guild members, adopted several trees and even decorated the fences with flowers. A very lovely display!
The photo above just shows a tiny part of it… you can see a gallery online courtesy of guild member Babeth Raible’s Flickr album (thanks for sharing, Babeth!).

Knit the Bridge is moving full speed ahead, with an Aug. 10 installation date. Volunteers will meet up at The Spinning Plate where all of the pieces and panels are being assembled and there is still a need for volunteering from now until the date it will be installed. If you’d like to help, see the details here… maybe I’ll see you there! Please be sure to make that special trip into downtown Pittsburgh to see the Andy Warhol Bridge once it is up; I’m hearing that it will be the biggest yarn installation in the world.

With Warm Regards,

Barb

Just a few spots left for Knittreat

Have you registered for our annual Knittreat in Bedford Springs, PA, yet? There are just six spots left! Don’t delay, send in your registration form today. We will not be opening up any classes to the public; however, we will announce an Open Market Day at a later date. We’ll announce when we are full. Visit Knittreat.com for all the details.

Barb’s Yarn Review: Colinton Australia

While I was at The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) Summer Trade Show, I was given a skein of Colinton Australia Ultrafine lace fine kid mohair to review. I was surprised to find that all of the yarn felt soft and non-scratchy.

Typically, our immediate association with mohair is itch, however, this is not the case with Colinton yarn. The yarn feels like silk to the touch and works up beautifully. I’ve been working with it while traveling lately, and I also found that it never felt hot while holding it. In this heat, many people are apprehensive about using wools and fibers other than cottons, linens, silks, bamboos and other plant-based yarns. But mohair can be an ALL-SEASON fashion fiber.

Mohair is a naturally soft fiber that is enhanced by modern processing. This ultrafine lace should go on your list of summertime yarns!

Mohair is the fleece produced from the Angora goat, and Angora is the fleece produced from the Angora rabbit.

SOME UNIQUE QUALITIES OF MOHAIR YARN

• Wicking: Quality that promotes beautiful and even absorption of dyes. Mohair readily absorbs moisture from handling or humid climate conditions that will alter the overall weight.
  
• Highly Lustrous: Smooth, natural characteristic resulting from widely spaced microscopic platelets on each strand, providing a greater uninterrupted surface area to reflect light.
  
• Fine Handle: Cool, silky quality. Mohair does not cling together in direct opposition to wool, which has a raised outer cuticle layer along each strand (also known as “hooks”).
  
• Halo Quality: Adding to the luxury, it is also responsible for the yarn to suffer from shedding. This is one of the reasons for blending with wool.
  
• Blending: Mohair can be spun into yarn without the blending of wool because of the strength, firmness and overall length of fibers.
  

This extremely fine and unusually soft yarn has the least amount of “halo” of all of the Colinton yarns. It is unique in the market, as it is unbrushed with minimal halo or shedding. The colors are rich and lustrous, with 335 yards to a skein, making it plenty for a shawl. There are a variety of different weights and colors available… my favorite was the tangerine, which is the color I chose.

For a fun read and a peek at some very sweet baby goat photos, check out Colinton Australia’s “Our farm background” link. It is a family-owned farm, with Brandyn, her husband and two daughters all pitching in to be part of the operation.

Sweepstakes winner(s) announced

Theresa Grochalski of Butler, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of our most recent sweepstakes. She receives Mountain Colors‘ Yellowstone River Scarf Kit.

We had a nice bonus: An extra kit was found in our stash, so we pulled a second name. Jan Rodgers of Mars, PA, was the lucky recipient. Congratulations, Theresa and Jan!

Sweepstakes prize: Luxury Yarn book

Although we don’t have any Colinton Australia yarn for a giveaway, there are many lovely lace weight patterns in the book that IS our Sweepstakes Prize this issue: Luxury Yarn, One Skein Wonders, 101 Small Indulgences, edited by Judith Durant. You are certain to find a pattern for Colinton Australia or any other yarn in your stash.

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by AUG. 1, 2013, with the subject line of “Luxury Yarns.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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Catching our breath from Columbus!

This weekend, Sarah, Ann and I made the rounds on the trade show floor of The National NeedleArts Association’s Summer Market in Columbus, OH. We caught up with many old friends and colleagues, and made a number of new connections, too. In fact, we have many surprises coming your way as a result of our networking. We’ll reveal everything … all in good time, we promise.

Pictured below is yarn that I brought home that was donated for our upcoming Bedford Knittreat, with more to come. We’re very grateful to the following donors:

• Plymouth Yarn (alpaca, baby alpaca, merinos and more)
• Knitting Fever Inc.
• Sirdar
• Jade Sapphire Exotic Fibres
• Noro
• Ella Rae Designs
• Louisa Harding Yarns

Watch for sweepstakes prizes from HPKY and Mountain Colors Yarns in upcoming issues of our newsletters. In fact, this issue’s sweepstakes is for a Mountain Colors scarf kit (details at the end of this newsletter).

I still have yarns to review from Colinette Yarns, Abuelita Yarns and Zealana Yarn. There are also quite a few books that I brought home from TNNA that I plan to review for you throughout the summer and fall.

Last but not least, wow, look at this mountain of wool! This is from Blue Sky Alpacas and is currently in my sitting room… although we plan to use all of it in our preparations for the Festival in March.

Here’s to a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday for everyone. I’m bringing my needles to the fireworks display, hope you can, too. And with the sweltering weather we’ve been having lately, now’s a great time to order your “It’s Too Hot to Wear My Sweater” T-shirts! Learn more here.

With Warm Regards,

Barb

Knittreat Early Bird registration ends June 30

Have you registered for our annual Knittreat in Bedford Springs, PA, yet? If not, there’s just a few days left to get in at the Early Bird rate! Visit Knittreat.com for all the details.

Congratulations to our Sweepstakes winners

Lynn Drzewucki, Cranberry Township, PA, was the randomly drawn winner of our book review sweepstakes from last issue. She receives Georgia Druen’s
My First Cardigan Workbook: Knit Your Way to Success with 8 Top-down Cardigans, from Annie’s Crafts.

In addition, we had a second prize package to celebrate Father’s Day:

•  4 free tickets to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game
•  6 buy one, get one free tickets to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game
•  2 coupons for $10 off club seats to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game

The randomly drawn winner of that sweepstakes prize was Rebecca White, Sycamore, PA. We congratulate both of our winners, and encourage everyone to read on for this issue’s sweepstakes details!

Sweepstakes prize: Mountain Colors Scarf Kit

The lovely Yellowstone River Scarf Kit is courtesy of Mountain Colors. This fun, textured scarf is knit lengthwise and includes five different types of Mountain Colors’ hand-painted yarn, approximately 1oz. each. The five different colorways blend for a colorful look.

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by JULY 1, 2013, with the subject line of “Yellowstone River Scarf.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winners will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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Lily Chin will be our Festival Featured Teacher!

While I want to remind everyone that Early Bird Registration is still going until the end of June for our November Knittreat, I am also thrilled with how the 2014 Festival is shaping up. First, we got word that the wonderful, #1 New York Times Best-selling Author Debbie Macomber will be our Special Guest during the event, and now I am pleased to announce that the fabulous Lily Chin has agreed to return to teach for the Festival’s 10th anniversary!

According to the bio on her website, Lily, named a “Master Knitter” by Vogue Knitting International, has designed knitwear for magazines and yarn companies for nearly 25 years, and she has worked with designers Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, Diane von Furstenberg, and Isaac Mizrahi. Her work has been on the backs of celebrities and super models, from Racquel Welch and Vanna White to Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell. She is the author of Knit and Crochet with Beads, The Urban Knitter and Mosaic Magic, and she has written the “On Designing” column for Knitter’s Magazine and the annual “Focus on Fibers” report for Knit ‘n Style.

Lily also is the reigning champion fastest crocheter in the world, a title she defended in October 2004 at the world championships in London. Lily Chin regularly appears as a spokesperson for the yarn industry in media across the U.S., including Time, the New York Times, USA Today, the David Letterman Show, the CBS Early Show, DIY’s Knitty Gritty, E! Style Network’s Craft Corner Death Match, Lifetime’s Handmade by Design, HGTV’s Sew Much More, and CNN. Lily Chin has lived in New York City nearly all her life and has been involved in some aspect of the fashion industry since age 13. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, and was educated at Queens College, City University of New York.

It’s going to be a great 10th-anniversary Festival, to say the least!

Check out our new merchandise page!

The weather has been so erratic: hot, cold, hot, cold and some days it really is too hot to wear our favorite sweater, shawl or vest. So, check out these new products and more that we are offering at: PghKnitandCrochet.com/merchandise.

These garments are perfect to let everyone know what we like to do. They will be available in the fall and winter in long- sleeved and sweatshirt styles.

Educational weaving event set for June 22

Visit Arthurdale Heritage in nearby Arthurdale, WV, on June 22 for “Common Threads,” a fiber show that will celebrate the city’s history of hand-weaving and other fabric and fiber crafts. Local artists will demonstrate their craft, teach classes, network, and swap supplies.

A special exhibit, “Weaving Legacies: Arthurdale’s Handweavers and the Craft Revival,” will highlight the links between Arthurdale’s weaving program and broader national trends in the 1930s.

The celebration of this new exhibit will include presentations by Sarah Fletcher (daughter of master weaver and Arthurdale homesteader Dorothy Thompson) and Philis Alvic, an eastern Kentucky weaver whose book, Weavers of the Southern Highlands, explores historic weaving programs in Appalachia.

The day begins at 10 a.m. with classes and demonstrations. These include a knit-in with Tracy Strother, a quilting show by the Homestead Quilters Guild, weaving exhibits, plus spinning and dyeing demonstrations. For children, there will be tie dye and macramé workshops. A “scrap swap” will allow fiber artists to trade materials and supplies. At 11:30 a.m., Sarah Fletcher will speak and show samples of her mother’s work. A light lunch will follow, and the event will end with Philis Alvic’s discussion and book signing. Click here for more information.

We will be at TNNA and unable to make it. Please let us know if you go, and take photos to share with us!

Fabric Fair a hit, thanks in part to Festival donations

We recently received a note from the Salvation Army Greater Pittsburgh Women’s Auxilliary letting us know that our Fabric Fair dropoff collection during the Festival was a home run for the group: “Your attendees are most generous and their donations are always of very good quality. This year our one-day sale in April netted us $36,500.”

Thank you all who participated in making their 2013 Fabric Fair such a success!

Book review… and special Father’s Day Sweepstakes

“The kids are out of school for the whole summer, and I love having Sarah at home!” says Barb. “I always wish that summer was a little longer.” Here’s the lastest book review, along with a very special sweepstakes prize, just in time to celebrate the dads in our lives:

The perfect companion for those of you who are with young people and are showing them how to knit their first sweater is from Annie’s Crafts: My First Cardigan Workbook. Knit Your Way to Success with 8 Top-down Cardigans, by Georgia Druen.

This little book is well organized for the beginner knitter, with four sweater patterns that offer an intro to lace, cables, fair isle, and basket weave basics. It has a before-you-get-started section, as well as knitting basics. It begins by starting with an infant-sized sweater. There are four pint-sized cardigans, then the same four cardigans are shown in adult sizes. When the baby sweaters have been completed, you can proceed to making an adult-sized matching one. The patterns are classic, simple styles, with various borders. This seems like it would be the perfect summer project for Grandma and grandchild.

We have two sweepstakes prizes this time around. In addition to a randomly drawn winner for the book, we also have a second, special sweepstakes package for another winner. just in time for Father’s Day June 16:

• 4 free tickets to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game
• 6 buy one, get one free tickets to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game
• 2 coupons for $10 off club seats to a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by JUNE 14, 2013, with the subject line of “My First Cardigan” (for the book), and/or if you want to try for the baseball package, send a separate email with the subject line of “Happy Father’s Day.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winners will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the next issue of Festival Update.

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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The early bird catches the Knittreat benefits

I had a sweet Mother’s Day with my Mother, my Mother-in-law, and of course my daughter. I can’t believe that May is almost over! This weekend, my family and I plan to start summer with a bang, literally… we’re attending PyroFest, billed as “America’s Largest Fireworks Festival” right here in Pittsburgh.

I am pleased to announce that Early Bird Registration is open for the Omni Bedford Springs Knittreat, which is set for Nov. 7, 8, 9 and 10. This year, an early-bird deposit payment of $159 can be made by June 30… A SAVINGS OF $70! See more details at Knittreat.com. The balance for lodging and meals does not need to be made until Oct. 8 to the host hotel, the Omni Bedford Springs.

We’ve been hard at work planning the details of this event. Holiday Yarns Dye Studio and SpaceCadet Creations are providing the yarn for the Westlake Shawl that Kathy Zimmerman will be teaching (pictured at top right). Holiday’s Jennifer VanCalCar has sent “Psyche & Cupid” from her Greek Myth Lace Club (pictured at bottom right), and I can’t wait to see what Stephanie Alford from SpaceCadet will send for the shawl.

Kraemer Yarns is graciously providing yarn for the Slip Stitch Sampler Pillow that Eleanor Swogger is teaching.

At press time, additional supporters include Elaine’s Wearable Art Boutique and AslanTrends.

Last but not least, stay tuned for details on how you can purchase our new product line, first introduced at the Festival in March! There are T-shirts, car stickers and more. Photos and an order form link will appear in our next issue, in just two weeks!

With Warm Regards,

Barbara Grossman

Barb’s mini book review AND Knittreat Sweepstakes prize:

Knitting Scandinavian Slippers and Socks, by Laura Farson

For all of you sock lovers, we are not only featuring a fun sock class at the Bedford Springs Knittreat with our own Marge Connelly, we have a book to give away to an Early Bird registrant! Discover beautiful knitting patterns that incorporate both twined and stranded knitting for slippers and socks for men and women. The book simplifies twined knitting, shows various cast-on methods for a better fit, and features a mix of traditional Scandinavian designs and modern variations. 

From a basic design to a more intricate pattern, there is sure to be a sock or slipper in this book for someone in your life. An added bonus is the instruction for a felted insole (mine always wear out quickly). 

Everyone who completes an Early Bird registration for Knittreat by June 30 will be automatically entered into a random drawing for the book. The winner will be announced in our July issue.

Congrats to our Sweepstakes winners

The random drawing winner of Sheryl Thies’ Nature’s Wrapture: Contemporary Knitted Shawls book is Claudia Dettlinger of Pittsburgh. The winner of Crochet
One-Skein Wonders: 101 Projects from Crocheters around the World, edited by Judith Durant and Edie Eckman, is Lois Kretchun, West Newton, PA. Congratulations to them both!

We know you’re anxious for the next Festival Update sweepstakes prize announcement, but it will have to wait just a wee bit closer to Father’s Day… we have something special just for Dads!

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party. © 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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On the Move…

These past few weeks have been spent helping my mother-in-law, Florence Grossman, relocate from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. She is now living at an independent living facility, Lighthouse Pointe Village at Chapel Harbor, close to our home. I bet she will have a knitting group started in no time at all! Florence is responsible for making just about every knitted and beaded garment and accessory I own.

I’d love to know what everyone bought at the Festival this year. I hope that you can finish at least one item and plan to show it off at next year’s PJ party with StevenBe. My purchases included two pairs of earrings from Sassafras Creations (which I wear all of the time), Sheepish Creations’ Heather Moors Lace Shawl kit (shown at left, although mine is in gray), and a few other patterns. I promise to wear my finished lace shawl at Bedford in November and at the Festival next year.

Stay tuned next month, we’re adding a product line!

With Warm Regards,

Barbara Grossman

Knittreat Update

We are happy to announce that all of our teachers have been selected for the 2013 Bedford Springs Knittreat: Eleanor Swogger, the design director for Kraemer Yarns, and our very own Kathy Zimmerman will offer classes along with Marge Connelly, Cheryl Geschke, Elaine Smith and Ann Szilagyi.

We’re working on getting all of the info posted onto Knittreat.com, and we’ll have Early Bird registration open by June 1. 

Our Sweepstakes is back … for knitters AND crocheters!

This month, Barb has reviewed two books, and decided they were just too good to keep to herself! So she made them both sweepstakes prizes. Read on for her take on all this fibery goodness, and then see how you can get in on a chance to win a copy of one (or both!) of them:

Nature’s Wrapture: Contemporary Knitted Shawls

By Sheryl Thies

This book is like a breath of fresh air: Sheryl offers a collection of wraps for every season. It was inspired by her daily walks with her neighbor friend. Over several years, they took various bike paths, nature trails, and walked in parks and local neighborhoods. They watched the leaves change with the seasons, observing butterflies, birds, bumblebees and dragonflies dancing across their paths. Shawls with titles such as “Heavy Rain,” “Sandy Beach,” “Orchid,” “Roses” and “Flame,” the garments truly capture the changing seasons.

Twenty shawls are featured in the book, with styles ranging from ponchos to shrugs and wraps. They are shown in a variety of ways to wear them. Rectangular, triangular and asymmetrical, elegant to casual, lacy, beaded and functional, Sheryl has a garment for everyone.

One particularly standout feature in this book is “Sheryl’s Notes.” At the end of each pattern, Sheryl shares a tip for each garment… what needles work best with the yarn suggested, how to wear the shawl or different closure options, for example.

There are patterns for every level, from the beginner to advanced. The patterns seem to be well written with an accompanying chart. I was going to mention my favorite in the book, but couldn’t decide which one I like best. There are 12 that would be my favorite picks!

Crochet
One-Skein Wonders: 101 Projects from Crocheters around the World

Edited by Judith Durant and Edie Eckman

Although I do not crochet, this book is sure to be a big hit among crocheters! Judith Durant has previously published the One-Skein Wonders books for knitters, showing many ways to use your stash. Finally, here’s a book solely dedicated to crochet, with 101 projects to try out.

The projects are lovely, colorful and adorable as well as useful. They’re arranged by yarn weight, with an assortment of items: from scarves to shawls, hats, gloves, socks, yoga bags, purses, jewelry, flowers, baby clothing, doll clothing, home decor and amigurumi. Diagrams of several stitch patterns are included, as is a full glossary of techniques that will help every level of crocheter succeed, from the beginner to advanced.

Hip, boho patterns and even a few timeless vintage designs make me want to get out the hook and give it another try.

HOW TO ENTER THE SWEEPSTAKES: Simply send an email (one entry per person per prize, please) to pghknitandcrochet@gmail.com by APRIL 30, 2013, with the subject line of either “Nature’s Wrapture” or “Crochet One-Skein Wonders.” Please include your name and a phone number where you can be reached. The winner of each book will be drawn randomly from the entries and announced in the May issue of Festival Update.

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

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THANK YOU!

The Festival was a huge success and we owe it all to you, thank you.

Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers, teachers, vendors and staff who worked so hard to make this show happen. A full thank-you list can be seen on the website.

For those of you who were unable to attend or came late on Sunday when we ran out of programs, we have added the program as a PDF on the website that you can download here.

Many photos have been posted on our Facebook page. If you took any photos, we’d love to see them, too.

The winners of the One-Year Subscription to Knitter’s Magazine daily drawings were: 

• Friday: Jodi Neff
• Saturday: Tishie Woodwell
• Sunday: Lori Chandler 

We are always grateful for any suggestions or recommendations that might help us to improve each Festival. Each year, there are little items that arise, which we try to address. This year, we had some questions about parking. The hotel has been gracious and provided a free shuttle all three days to transport those who parked in an adjacent lot or were parked farther away.

The hotel DOES PERMIT parking along the yellow lines of its parking lot during the weekend of the show! We encouraged folks to drive together and carpool to help resolve this issue, but other than that, we are at the mercy of the venue. Other than going to another location, this is the best that we can do. Other locations would present other issues, though: parking would not be free; admission, classes and vendor spaces would become more expensive, etc.

We work very hard to keep costs low to accommodate everyone, including the small local farmers and store owners, as well as the folks who travel from far away. Let’s keep our Festival in an intimate hotel atmosphere, a more friendly environment than a convention center, which allows us to make closer connections and let our hair down.

I’m putting my daughter Sarah on a plane to Spain this week, then traveling to Florida with my sister Ann. I’ll send news again next month, including details about our fall Knittreat. I hope you spend the coming weeks playing with all your new Festival finds!

With Warm Regards,

Barbara Grossman

Festival Update is published by

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet

P.O. Box 7706, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 / (412) 963-7030

We do not share our mailing list with any third party.

© 2013 Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

eNews designed by Gooch & Gooch, LLC