Knit & Caboodle Yarn Shop

Open Labour Day Monday

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-09-01T18:36:52-06:00

We will be open Labour Day Monday from Noon - 4:30pm.

Saturday is the usual 10:30 - 5:30 on and Sunday Noon - 4:30 as always.

Hope to see you in beautiful Canmore this weekend!

Ooops, I did it again.

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-08-30T17:03:02-06:00

OK, we're doing the vacation thing and the part that gives me more stress than the rest, is packing my knitting. My philosophy on packing is this: I make the best list I can, but if I forget something, I try not to sweat it too much, 'cause I can always buy it once I arrive at my destination. Toothbrush? Buy it. Favourite book? Get another at the airport. Hat, sunscreen, bug spray? Buy it, buy it, buy it.

But when it's knitting related, things get complicated. If I forget a set of knitting needles or run out of yarn, well, replacements aren't always so easy to come by. Especially since I like to take several projects because, hey, you never know what you might feel like working on, right?

So I packed everything up in my shiny new red Namaste Hermosa. I'd been drooling over these beautiful bags all week in the shop and I was possessed. Must. Have. Bag. I have not been disappointed. This is the best bag I've owned, evah!

That brings us to the present situation. I packed tons of needles, and stitch markers, and a pair of scissors, and even my needle gauge (I always forget that one, but I was on the ball this time). I even packed a stitch dictionary. Now who does that people?!? Who takes a Harmony Stitch Dictionary on vacation with them???

So now, do you think I can find a set of 4 mm double points? Um, no... 3.5 mm -- yes. 4.5 mm -- absolutely. 5.0mm -- in the bag. But no 4 mm's and I want them for the mitten pattern I am working on. Gah!

The same scenario played out on my last trip too, except it was a set of 4.5 mm circulars that I needed desperately for the Meret beret. I can't tell you how many sets of these I own but none to be found.

I guess I'll pick up one of the other projects I brought along instead. Hence, justifying my purchase of my bulging-with-yarn Hermosa bag...and also my need to bring along a billion projects (plus stitch dictionary :-) on vacation.

Num...Namaste bags are in!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-08-19T20:13:09-06:00

Light summer knitting

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-08-19T19:45:44-06:00

OK guys... MAJOR panic attack. I went to turn on my computer one morning and instead of getting this happy start-up icon:

I got this:

Aaaaaack!!!! And then it gets worse. I lost the files for my website. So it took a while to get back into business but here we are.

Now 'nuff about that...how about a little light summertime knitting? How about these cute little Amigurumi animals

From this great book:

In stock now...but selling fast!

Sorry for being away for so long, but it's nice to be back! (PS... note to self... don't forget to do regular backups!)

Playing for change

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-07-18T19:30:20-06:00

Okay, not knitting related but here's a great, inspiring video...have a look!

Knitting on planes

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-06-27T18:43:19-06:00

I know I've posted on this topic before...even had a photo of "moi" knitting on a plane. But I thought I'd post again as I recently got back from a trip to the States, wherein I was bold, people, very bold. I took AddiTurbo Lace needles with me ON THE PLANE. Yes, you read that right AddiTurbo Lace: you know the metal needles with the sharper points than the regular Addi nickel plated needles. No one stopped me, no one made a fuss, nothing. This is good news!

I had always been a bit shy of taking my beloved Turbos through security, for fear that a) they would take them away from me, and b) that would leave me with nothing to knit with at all once I reached my destination. So I had been taking wood or bamboo needles with me...never had a problem with those puppies, never. But my dear, sweet Addi's I always felt were too much of a risk.

However, I was knitting something that I really wanted, and most certainly needed, a metal needle for. So I took the gamble...and won! But, truth be told, this year I've taken (and knitted with) my Addi's to Las Vegas, Toronto, and Los Angeles. So I think we might be good to go with the metal needles now, in my limited experience at least.

Olds Fiber Week...are you going?

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-06-24T19:45:41-06:00

Fiber Week at Olds College in Olds, Alberta starts tomorrow. There are probably a few spots left for classes if you wish to learn a new skill...or you could go and visit the merchants market to find some fantastic fibers. If you aren't familiar with this hommage to woolly goodness, check out their website and maybe plan to attend next year!

And if you do plan on coming next year from points far away, do know that Olds is a mere one hour north of Calgary. Pretty convenient, eh?

Some favourite things...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-06-23T19:38:42-06:00

Ahhh...some hand-dyed yarn...by me no less (more on that in another post and how maybe we can help you make your own hand-dyed yarns). Plus my iPhone. I have several knitting apps including the Needle Sizer that sizes needles without the use of one of those thing-ma-jigs with holes in it, the Needle Tracker that keeps a record of the needles I own, and the Stitch Minder that keeps count of rows knitted and repeats in patterns and stuff (which I use ALL the time).

Holiday Weekend Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-05-18T20:05:28-06:00

Wow, guys....it's May already!!!! And the Victoria Day long weekend is coming up.

We will be open our regular hours on the weekend (10:30-5:30 Saturday, and Noon - 4:30 on Sunday) aaaand for your shopping pleasure, we will also be open on Monday from Noon -4:30.

We've got lots of new yarns in stock, plus a new and recent shipment of Madelinetosh yarns...and a restocking of these cute little 'dumpling cases'. Oh people, these are sooo very cute... 6 little yarn ball stitch markers all rolled into a little silk case that looks like a Chinese dumpling!

Just for fun...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-04-19T21:32:18-06:00

Oh, just for fun we've got these "shelf sitters" in stock, with hilarious messages. Place them on a book shelf, in your studio or anywhere you knit to let people know about the status of your knitting or if you just want to have a chuckle.

Pick one, or all four sayings:

Oh, and my personal favourite?

Ohhhh...so true!

Madelinetosh...yes!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-04-13T19:10:24-06:00

We have received our shipment of Madelinetosh, yay!

Tosh Sock and Tosh DK (formerly worsted) are here, and lace should be arriving shortly. The colours of this beautiful hand-dyed merino must be seen. All our Tosh tends to go fast, so if you are interested be sure to drop by the store soon!

More and more new stuff...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-04-08T17:10:50-06:00

Hmmm...where to start?

We just received a full restocking of Dream in Color "Starry" and Malabrigo Sock yarns. We were running on empty for both of these great hand-dyed merino sock yarns...and now we're full up again. Dream in Color "Smooshy" is currently winging its way here and should be in any day too, with more "Classy" to follow.

New books: Saturday Style, Cuddly Crochet, Nature's Wrapture, Knitting More Circles Around Socks, Men's Knits, Knitted Lace of Estonia and more.

And in the 'cute-but-practical department, from Lantern Moon we've got the Leaf and Ladybug tape measures (and the Chicken and Turtle too), plus the Sweater Key rings...verrry cute!

Easter Weekend Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-29T11:07:11-06:00

Good Friday: Noon - 4:30
Saturday: 10:30 - 5:30
Sunday: Noon - 4:30
Monday: Closed

Happy Easter!

Crazyfoot by Mountain Colors...HERE...NOW!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-25T20:31:43-06:00

Nuff said, eh!

We now have a nice selection of Mountain Colors' new, new, new Crazyfoot sock yarn. It's a 90% Superwash Merino Wool/10% Nylon (for that extra sock strenght) with an amazing 425 yds per 100 gm skein.

Just arrived today. Come and check it out!

Knit Happy! Oh...ya!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-23T19:47:29-06:00

Okay...we all know we're happy, reeeaallly happy when we knit! So why not tell the world with a great "Knit Happy" coffee mug...

Or a "Knit Happy" insulated go cup...

Orrrrr...a "Knit Happy" notebook?!?!?

All in stock now with lots of colours to choose from!

Central Park Hoodie

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-20T20:50:38-06:00

Finished my Central Park Hoodie...luv it!

It's done in Cascade 220-Dune Heather. We have a HUGE selection of 220 Heather's and solids in stock. You can't go wrong with this yarn. Lot's of yardage, it felts, it shows cables and stitch patterns beautifully, it's soft and it's affordable...what more could anyone want?!

Anzula's here...and other unique yarns

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-17T20:13:44-06:00

Just unpacked some fabulous hand-dyed yarns from Anzula Luxury Fibers. Okay, now...have a peek at the "Squishy" sock yarn which is a a Merino/cashmere/nylon blend (80/10/10) of hand-dyed, tone-on-tone loveliness:

We've also got a selection of lace weight yarns: Breeze, which is a silk/linen blend (65/35) and Mermaid, a sea cell/silk blend (60/40). Oh my, you've never seen such wonderful stuff!

Also in are the latest Jade Sapphire yarns ... for all of you cashmere coveters out there this is Mongolian cashmere, hand-dyed and ooooooh so soft! We have 2-ply lace weight, 4-ply DK and a nice selection of His & Hers Scarf Kits (comes with all the lovely pure cashmere yarn you need to make one of seven scarves...patterns included!)

Lifelines

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-03-09T19:44:55-07:00

Okay, so I was working on my Traveling Woman scarf/shawl and it came to the point where I was wondering if I could make it a little bit longer (and wider) by adding another lace repeat. I wasn't sure whether I had enough yarn so I decide to put in a lifeline in case I ran out of yarn and had to rip it back.

For those of you who have knitted lace, you know how hard it can be to rip back work...what with all the yarn overs and the k2togs and whatnot; it's difficult to know whether you've managed to retain all of the necessary stitches. The solution? A lifeline. A lifeline is where you take a piece of waste yarn and weave it through the live stitches on your needle. Then you continue knitting your lace pattern. If you run into trouble, you can always pull all the stitches off of the needle and rip it back to the lifeline. For more information check out this link: A lifeline or this video on knittinghelp.com: (scroll down to "Fixing Mistakes". The lifeline is the last video clip).

You can see the lifeline I put in in the photo below. It's the purpley bit of yarn running through the work.

Here it is in closer detail:

It turned out that I had more than enough yarn to complete the shawl with the extra 12 row repeat. With no need to rip anything back, I simply pulled out the line of purple yarn when I finished the project and cast off happily!

Cascade...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-01-21T09:23:15-07:00

We're in the process of unloading three huge boxes of Cascade yarns. We're restocking the 220 plus adding more new colours; we've also got the more Aplaca Plus and Eco-wool in some new heather colours. And...non Cascade related ... we've also got in some Bully Woolly: a super soft, varigated yarn that knits up big on 10mm needles. Come in and check it out!

Join our Ravelry Group

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-01-19T19:32:58-07:00

We've started a new group on Ravelry (www.ravelry.com) Our group is called Knit & Caboodlers.

Please join us to keep in touch with shop events and shop news! See you online!

Schaefer Sock Yarns

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-01-19T19:26:08-07:00

We just got a restocking of the ever fabulous Schaefer sock yarns in.

We have in an assortment of amazing colourways in the following yarns:
“Nichole” (80% Extrafine Merino, 20% Nylon Superwash);

“Heather” (55% Merino, 30% Silk and 15% Nylon); and

“Anne” (60% Merino, 25% Mohair, 15% Nylon).

But don’t limit your projects to socks…mitts, neckwarmers, shawls & hats are other great projects that would work beautifully in this yarn.

Help for Haiti

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-01-14T19:10:52-07:00

Like many people, I have been saddened by the watching the effects of the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti – this poorest of poor countries.

In an effort to help we will be donating a percentage of this week’s total sales receipts to the relief efforts…

So if you’re around or in town this and have a chance to stop in the shop, a portion of your purchase $$ will be going to the relief effort. Thanks!

A good 'guy sweater'

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2010-01-03T10:25:39-07:00

Looking for a new project to start the New Year? The Nantucket Pullover by designer Barbara Selsnick is a great 'guy' sweater that is easy to do -- especially if it's your first sweater -- and it knits up quickly in a worsted weight yarn.

The style is a simple drop sleeve with an easy stitch pattern that adds texture and visual interest. We've got the pattern and lots of worsted weight yarns to choose from. This sample was knit in the always wonderful Cascade 220.

Holiday Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-12-18T14:47:04-07:00

Wow another year come and almost gone! I can't believe how fast it has gone by...and we're now approaching Christmas. It's been a great year, with a lot of fun, new yarns and products, and of course the best part, YOU, our wonderful and loyal customers! Thank you all!

Below are our holiday hours:

December 24 – 10:30 – 4:00
Christmas Day – CLOSED

Boxing Day – CLOSED
December 27 – 12:00 – 4:30
Dec. 28–30 – 10:30 – 5:30
December 31 – 10:30 – 4:00
January 1 – CLOSED

Have a very happy holiday season and we hope to see you in the shop over the holidays and in the year!

New and just in...Polarknits yarn

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-11-18T19:33:47-07:00

Love the feel and ease-of-care of your polar fleece garments? Well now you can enjoy knitting with that very same fibre. PolarKnit™ has invented the first authentic fleece yarn for the knitting and crochet industry. The yarn is soft and cozy, knits up fast, dries quickly, and is machine washable. And they come with all sorts of patterns that you can download from their website.

How about these:

Or these....

Or this...

Come in a check it out!

Addi's & Addi Clicks

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-10-27T09:03:18-06:00

We've just restocked our selection of Addi Turbos, Addi Lace Turbos ...aaaand... we have a couple of sets of the much sought after Addi Clicks!

Also in is more Cascade 220, Eco Wool, and some wonderful hand-dyed yarns from Tanis Fiber Arts from Montreal, delivered personally by Tanis when she was out here visting the Rockies. Thanks Tanis!

Ujamaa Grandmas - Purses for Africa Sale

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-10-15T15:45:10-06:00

If you are in Calgary this Saturday (October 17, 2009), plan to attend the Ujamaa Grandmas - Purses for Africa Sale at the South Calgary Community Association: 3130 – 16th Street S.W., from 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM. The sale features unique sewn, knitted and felted purses, bags, accessories, and baby and toddler items all handmade by a group of caring Calgary grandmothers to support grandmothers in Africa.

The event is put on by the Ujamaa Grandmas - a group of Calgary grandmothers who are turning their talents towards a great cause: raising money that will go to community-based organizations in Africa. Specifically to organizations that are helping to turn the tide of HIV/AIDS by providing care to women, grandmothers, orphans and people living with HIV and AIDS. All proceeds from the sale to the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Good work ladies!

Happy Thanksgiving & Weekend Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-10-10T15:44:40-06:00

I love the fall and Thanksgiving in particular. It's chilly today in Canmore and I think it's suppose to be this way for the rest of the weekend. Perfect weather to be all cosy and warm with a great knitting project to work on

I've got the Colonnade Shawl on my needles today which I am doing in Manos Clasica - Naturals. This is a new yarn from Manos Del Uruguay that we just got in. It's also the featured yarn on the cover of the latest issue of Interweave Knits:

The Clasica Naturals come in three natural blends in the sheep's natural colours of grey, brown and ecru, which are then handspun together creating a melange effect. These natural blends have also been overdyed in six rich shades to create a soft wool with incredibly gorgeous and subtle variations in color and texture.

It's also good to know that Manos del Uruguay yarns are produced by a cooperative of Uruguayan women artists, and is member of WFTO, the World Fair Trade Organization,

There is still plenty of time to pick up a project to keep yourself warm and busy over the holiday weekend. We are open Thanksgiving weekend during the following hours:

Saturday: 10:30 - 5:30
Sunday: Noon - 4:30
Monday: Noon - 4:30

Hope to see you. Thank you to everyone who have continued to support the shop. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving full of friends, family, reflection and gratitude!

Car magnets for knitters

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-09-30T19:54:18-06:00

You've probably see the oval shaped magnets (with a black outline) that are typically used in Europe to denote which country a car is from when crossing borders. Well we've got 'em for knitters! Choose your fav: from k2tog, ssk, K1P1, or YO.

Easy to place, easy to remove; they also work on fridges too. We've stuck a few to the store's mini-fridge:

These are soooo cool...come in and pick one out for yourself or buy as a gift for the knitter who has everything!

Yarn Harlot's latest...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-09-25T11:39:34-06:00

We've unpacked a bunch of new books including the "Never Not Knitting 2010" calendar from the Yarn Harlot - Stephanie Pearl-McFee. Call to reserve your copy or stop by the shop and peruse are new yarns and books.

Too busy to blog...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-09-02T18:36:22-06:00

Sorry guys for being so remiss on my blog updates. We've been busy....reallllly busy....unpacking all the new fall yarns and more and more keeps coming in daily.

To date, we've got a complete restocking of Mission Falls 1824 and 136 mmmmm-merino superwash yarns. Plus another restocking of the always fabulous Manos silk blend. New in the shop (and almost gone) is Madeleinetosh hand-dyed worsted weight and sock yarn. Too yummy! Plus Schaefer hand dyed sock yarns, ArtYarn hand-dyed superwash merino, with matching beaded silk yarn. Love the bling, people!

Ummmm what else? Some new Lima Peruvian Yarn from the Diamond Luxury collection. Fabulously soft, subtle multi-toned yarn at a fantastic price. Noro Silk Garden, and Silk Garden sock yarn....ummm.... new books....lots of stuff. Come and see!

Fall Class Schedule

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-08-18T19:37:23-06:00

Check out our new Fall 2009 class schedule! We've got beginner knitting and crochet classes plus a bunch of new classes to help build your skills: from entrelac, to lace knitting to colourwork...it's all there.

Done... luv it!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-07-30T17:39:15-06:00

Actually, I finished this a couple of weeks ago, but have been on summer vacay for the past week or so. We are finally getting some nice summer weather out here, after much rain, so I don't want to jinx things by saying, 'bring on the fall' so I can wear my new sweater! But I realllly want to wear my new sweater.
I
The pattern comes from "Knits from the North Country", a book of Canadian designs that we sell in the shop. The yarn used was the ever-fabulous-ever-great-bargain, Mule Spinner yarn from Custom Woolen Mills made right here in Alberta, which we also sell in the shop.

NEW: Tons 'o patterns

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-07-19T19:47:41-06:00

NEW: Kollage square needles

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-07-15T20:07:43-06:00

Kollàge's new square knitting needles are here and they're great! Designed to be ergonomically suited to your hands, these light-weight aluminum coated needles help decrease stress and strain and are easier to use by those who have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or stiffness in hands and fingers.

We have crochet hooks, double points and circulars in stock. The cable on the circulars is like no other...it will not kink, curl or knot and has virtually no memory. This is a circular that is ready to knit right out of the package. You've got to try them!

Almost done

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-07-10T09:44:05-06:00

One good thing about all the rain that we've been having recently is that I've been making great progress on the sweater. I've got the sleeves done and attached to the body and am now gunning towards completing the collar. That's one great thing about knitting sweaters in the round (in addition to the fact that you have no seams to sew) is that it seems to come together so fast in the end.

I found this photographing this project at this stage a little daunting...no matter how I arranged and rearranged the sweater I just couldn't seem to do it justice. Perhaps a close-up would work?!

Happy Canada Day!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-06-30T18:06:24-06:00

July 1st means that Canmore's fantastic Canada Day parade will swing into motion at noon...the downtown is pretty much shut down for the parade. But we will be open on Canada Day once the parade finishes (around 1PM). We'll also have a table set up on Main Street for the big sidewalk sale (also after the parade). Be sure to stop by and say hello, and pick up some fabulous yarn...sans GST!!!

New buttons

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-06-27T08:13:19-06:00

Here's just a teeny tiny sampling of the new buttons that arrived this week.

Also just in and waiting to be unpacked is The Alpaca Yarn Companys "Paca Peds" sock yarn, soooo soft and in an exquisite array of hand-dyed colours!

More Sock Innovation

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-06-19T08:01:06-06:00

Just opened my latest shipment of goodies, and guess what? We've got this back in stock:

Yay! We've got five copies so if you'd like to reserve one, please call or email or drop by the shop to get your copy. Also new in the book department is "Knitting for HIm" - a great book with 27 patterns to knit for the guy in your life -- or if you are a guy -- for you!

In the yarn department, enroute in the postal system as we speak are some new hand-dyed sock yarns from Schaefer Yarns, Pacapeds, and a restocking of Lorna's Laces (sock yarn plus Shepherd Worsted). I'll let you know when it all arrives!

Busy unpacking...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-05-22T08:55:50-06:00

Been busy unpacking all sorts of new stuff. We've got more of our ever-popular Bearfoot Sock yarn from the hand-dyers of Mountain Colors. As well as more Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Yarns-- another fantastic hand-dyed yarn with an incredible stitch and handfeel:

Pluuuuuus ... a nice shipment of Malabrigo yarns including the new and much anticipated Malabrigo CHUNKY. We also received some new colours in the Malabrigo sock yarn as well.

Busy knitting

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-05-20T13:27:12-06:00

OK... as I write this, I'm looking out the window, and it's snowing. It's May 20th and it's s...n...o...w...i...n...g! Now I know that living in the mountains, you've got to expect weird weather, but this is getting downright silly. We'll have a nice sunny day with the promise of summer in the air, followed by a cold day like today were the rain might turn to snow.

So it's probably a good thing that I've been putting my recent knitting time towards a sweater; it might come in handy if this weather keeps up! I've been doing a knit along with a friend and we've chosen a pattern with a little bit of Fairaisle and a bit of pattern stitch work. We're using 2-ply Mulespinner yarn from Alberta's own Custom Woolen Mills--which is a great yarn with good yardage at a great price. We just received a nice restock of with some of their new colours and I am really pleased with how this yarn is knitting up. Now if only our weather would be so good!

New books in

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-05-01T11:39:26-06:00

We've got three copies of Cookie A's much anticipated "Sock Innovation" left in stock. We had several more, but between the time it took to take the photo of this book and the time the store closed yesterday, two of them went to happy new homes!

Also in this book order, is Ann Budd's recently released "SImple Style" plus some great books on fair aisle and colour knitting.

In the yarn department, we just unpacked our latest shipment of Noro "Chirimen" which is a cotton and silk blend of beautiful colours that Noro is famous for. Plus Ella Rae's "Shibu", which is another silk blend that has subtle, light tones and is great for light summer garments (of which I currently have on the needles!). Also in is Mirasol's "Nuna", a silk, bamboo and wool blend in eight gorgeous colours. So if you are wanting to do some lightweight summer knits, these are all wonderful choices!

Can you knit on the plane?

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-04-28T19:10:17-06:00

We get that question a lot at the shop, and the answer is, yes you can! Here's the proof from my recent vacation:

I've travelled quite a bit over the last year--three or four times to the United States, once to Belize, and a couple of domestic flights-- and I have knitted my way through all of it. I've knitted while waiting to board a flight, while waiting on the plane for the flight to take off, through flight delays, and throughout the flights themselves. So ya...you can knit on the plane! The Canadian Air Transport and Security Authority says so and so does the Transportation Security Commission in the States.

Having said that, I have usually taken a sock project (because they are so portable) and have used wooden needles. No one has ever questioned it, and I have to say,several of the flight attendants have cheered me on. The attendant on this flight said she wanted to see "project completed before we reach our destination." How good is that?!?

Easter Weekend Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-04-03T08:26:24-06:00

There're only one small change to our regular shop hours over the Easter weekend: Friday, April 10 is Good Friday which is a statutory holiday, so we will be open from 12pm - 4:30pm that day. Here's the weekend lowdown:

Friday, April 10 (Good Friday): 12pm - 4:30pm
Saturday, April 11: 10:30am - 5:30pm
Sunday, April 12: 12pm - 4:30pm

Happy Easter!

Nothing to do with knitting...

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-27T17:40:15-06:00

For those of you reading from afar and not familiar with where I live and have my shop, Canmore, Alberta is located in the spectacular Canadian Rockies, just five minutes east of Banff National Park. What I love about living here (among many things), is being so close to nature and wildlife. I see deer and/or elk weekly, and almost daily sometimes, when walking the dogs. And occasionally I see one of these guys lurking around the back yard of our house, like I did this morning:

Yup, that's a coyote taking in a little sunshine. His friend trotted off when I went out on the deck to get a photo, but I did manage to get a shot in.

And for anyone who has dogs, you might appreciate the fact that even their wild canine cousins do a little boot-scoot'n boogie from time to time too!

Felted objects...before and after

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-22T13:31:47-06:00

Here are some photos of my recently felted rug. It was knit in Deluxe Chunky Tones from Universal Yarns. This is a bulky weight yarn that felted really fast, with the resulting fabric coming out about as thick as if you'd double-stranded two worsted weight yarns.

Before...

Pre-felt size was 37.5” x 46”; finished size 25” x 32” and I've used my dog, Faith, as a model here for a sense of scale.

After...

Last week we got a ton of new books on knitting and crocheting in at the shop (more about that in another post...), including some books on felting, as well as copies of "The Knitted Rug" by Donna Druhan, upon which my felted rug was based. So do stop by and check them out!

A fast and fabulous FO

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-16T16:25:44-06:00

Here's the result of the Malabrigo Aquarella/AddiTurbo combo: a fast 'n easy finished object (FO). This neckwarmer uses just one ball of yarn and knits up in less than an hour. It's from a pattern is called "Fourteen" and is a free download from Ravelry.

Love and marriage

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-11T19:34:28-06:00

A shot of Malabrigo Aquarella just waiting to be knit up on AddiTurbos...life doesn't get much better!

Stack 'o squares

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-06T10:26:53-07:00

The squares for my felted rug are done and ready for assembly. I've decided to do a throw rug and I have twenty 9.5-inch squares done up that I'll put in a 4-square by 5-square layout. I had originally thought 4 by 6, but it just seemed proportionately too long, so I'll have a few squares left to play with.

I am anticipating that the felting process will shrink the whole thing by 30 per cent and if all goes as planned the finished size will be about 26 x 33 inches. If all doesn't go as planned, I guess the dogs will have a new mat to lie on!

It's all a learning process--not the knitting this time round, but in thinking that I should be knitting something more difficult, more important. Customers would come in the store to purchase yarns for a fabulous sweater, or cabled mittens or a lace shawl, and there I was churning out mere squares!

How many times do we feel this way in life, not just in knitting; feeling that we should be doing something bigger, better, more challenging, more important? When in reality it's totally okay to relax, to enjoy simplicity and to not always set monumental challenges for ourselves. I'm not saying goals aren't good, or we shouldn't challenge ourselves in our knitting...just not all the time. Because, as recent post on Knitting Daily says:

"Sometimes we forget: Knitting is supposed to be fun. It's what we choose to do in our free time, it's what we do for ourselves—to calm ourselves, to enjoy the rhythm of stitches, to revel in the feel of yarn slipping through our fingers."

Addi-Clicks are in!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-03T14:58:11-07:00

Just in: another shipment of the new Addi Click interchangeable needles. Yay! We sold out of the first shipment and and due to their popularity, have waited a couple of months for this one to arrive.

The Addi-Clicks provide 10 pairs of different sized AddiTurbo needle tips from 3.5mm to 10mm, plus three different lengths of those amazingly pliable Addi cords, which come in 60 cm, 80 cm and 100 cm (24, 32 and 40-inch) lengths. By using either one cord or combining two cords with the connector that comes with the package, you can get six different circular needle lengths: from 60 cm (24 inch);to 183 cm (72 inch). That means that you will always have the right size and length of needle when you need it!

So the next time your gauge calls for a needle one size larger or smaller than you anticipated, you just switch needle tips and you are ready to knit. Can't beat that! Call today to reserve your set.

Toe-up socks

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-03-01T14:32:40-07:00

There are still a couple of spaces left in our upcoming "Toe-up Socks" class that runs three Saturday mornings (March 7, 14 & 21) from 10:30AM – 12:30 PM.

If you're already a sock knitter, this class will build on your skills and teach you a new technique, and if you've never knit a sock...well, here's your chance to learn how to make one of the most popular knitting projects!

Please call us at shop if you'd like to register: 403-609-5582.

This is knittin' weather!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-02-25T11:39:12-07:00

Not that I don't knit in any kind of weather, buuuut, we've been having quite a nice steady snowfall here in Canmore. We've had about 15-20 centimetres (6 - 8 inches) and it's still coming down. This is great for the ski hills and actually, great for my knitting too.

On beautiful, sunny days I always feel that I should be outside doing something to take advantage of good weather, but on snowy or rainy days it just seems right to tuck in for some solid, guilt-free knitting.

So what's on the needles? Well after finishing my sweater I wanted to delve into something completely different...and so I am knitting a rug. Well a bunch of squares that I'll sew together and then felt the whole thing and hope that it turns into a small throw rug.

I've always wanted to knit a rug; so inspired by the cover of "The Knitted Rug" by Donna Druhan and by the colours we have in stock from Deluxe Chunky Tones by Universal Yarns, I am blissfully knitting away.

The rug in the book was done in a bulky weight cotton, but I am choosing to use wool and, as I mentioned earlier, plan to felt it. And while the rug is made up of a bunch of squares, they're not just any old squares! These are mitred by doing a double decrease in the middle of the row. So you start off by casting on the longest edge and decrease in the middle of the row until you have just one stitch left. Each row gets shorter and shorter to knit as you go along and you end up with a nifty little square.

Each square knits up pretty fast, so you can watch an hour of television and complete a square...or in my case, complete a couple of rows in between unpacking boxes of new stock.

So we shall see how this experiment works out! I'll keep you posted.

So how's that sweater coming along?

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-02-22T11:51:46-07:00

...well, quite well, actually. It's finished and I love it! I wore it to work this week and I'm loving the short sleeve bit: it's like wearing a vest, but a bit warmer, but still cool enough to wear indoors and even outside on a coolish day.

In an earlier post I admitted that I was a "start-a-holic" of sorts and kinda weak on finishing because, hey, there's just so much neat stuff to knit and I want to do it all.

But this time I told anyone who would listen that I was determined to be disciplined and stick to the project. And what happened was kind of interesting...people would ask "how's that sweater coming along?" each time they visited the store. Knowing that someone would ask (especially you, Val, if you're reading this!) motivated me to keep going so that I would have some progress to report.

I might just try that again on the next big project; it is a bit having a personal trainer, or even better a "knitting coach," to keep you on track and accountable. You should try it too...I highly recommend it!

Zuma Zoom!

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-02-14T20:35:30-07:00

In three short days, we're totally sold out of Namaste's Zuma Eggplant bags and we're planning on re-ordering this colour (as well as the Lime colour) and some other Namaste bags that we're sold out of. So if you'd like us to special order a bag with your name on it, call or email the shop and let us know!

A couple of new classes

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-02-12T14:40:36-07:00

We're adding a couple of new classes to our Saturday schedule. If you are a new knitter or a knitter returning to knitting after a layoff and want to pick up the needles again,

consider the "Beginner Plus" class. This class is designed to take you further with your knitting by working on a project like a hat, mittens or a baby blanket. You'll learn the basics of pattern reading and all sorts of tips and tricks while working on a great project.

We're also offering another Entrelac knitting class entitled the "EntreSac" Beaded Bag class. This funky little bag will teach you the entrelac technique plus a little beading for the handle and bit about felting for good measure. Once you're done, you too can be the proud owner of a bag like the one in the photo!

The Beginner Plus runs on three Saturday afternoons in March (7, 14, 21) from 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM and the EntreSac class runs three mornings in April (4, 18, 25) from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Each costs $50 plus GST and materials. You can register by either calling the shop or dropping by in person. Hope to see you there!

Progress report

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-02-06T15:15:15-07:00

I'd really planned on having my sweater done by now...but I had to do a little frogging on the back (eek!) and then the rest of life got in the way! "Life" involved unpacking a backorder of Malabrigo Worsted (yay) and stocking our latest order of bags from Namaste.

In additon to restocking the popular Laguna bags, we've now got the new Zuma bags in many of Namaste's fantastic colourways including "Eggplant" (shown above). For those of you on Ravelry, this was the colour chosen by Ravelers as this season's limited edition colour.

Also in the works are a couple more classes. One will be a "Beginner Plus" class for advanced beginners looking to move beyond scarf knitting, or for those returning to knitting after a bit of a layoff. This class will be scheduled for three Saturdays in March. The other class will be a beaded Entrelac Bag, which is a follow-up to our popular Entrelac scarf class. It will be scheduled for three Saturdays in April. More details will follow shortly!

In the meantime, it's back to my sweater. It's been blocked, and the shoulder seams done in a nifty three-needle bind-off. And now it's time to pick up the stitches on the sleeves and add the ribbing!

What's on the needles this week?

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-01-27T19:17:10-07:00

I am working on the "Eliza" sweater featured on the cover of Ella Rae's Studio Collection, Book 13. I'm doing it in Malabrigo worsted, but it would also work really well in other yarns we carry such as Mission Falls 1824 merino, or Elsebeth Lavold Classic AL (a lovely wool/alpaca blend), Cascade Sierra (for those who prefer cotton) and of course Ella Rae yarns.

I chose the Malabrigo worsted (which we also stock) because it had been waiting patiently in my stash for just the right project, and this is the project!

Those of you who know me, know that I'm great at starting a project and then another great new yarn, or pattern comes in the shop and I've just got to try out that too. So I have my fair share of works in progress! But hey...I'm not the only person who does this, right?!??

I am proud to say that over the past few days I've finished the back and the left front and am surging forth with the front right. It's such a fun pattern (Ella Rae is a wonderful designer), and a great yarn that is buttery smooth to knit with, that I really can't put it down. And, pretty soon I'll be sporting a new sweater...yay!

Mmmm ... Malabrigo & Manos Silk Wools

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-01-21T12:58:43-07:00

We just got new shipments in of Malabrigo Silky Merino (left) and Manos Silk Blend (below).....yum on both accounts!

The Malabrigo is a new addition for us, but many of our knitters have been working with the Manos Silk Blend over the past year and loving it! So much so, that we keep brining in more...and this time we have lots of new colours in both solids and varigated.

Both of these yarns have an incredible handfeel, a nice sheen and beautiful stitch definition due to the silk component. Both also knit up at a DK gauge of roughly 22-24 stitches per 10 centimetres (4").

The main difference is in colourways .... beautiful but different, in that the Malabrigo has deep colour saturation with hits of contrasting colours, where the Manos is more subtle and earthy.

Either way, you can't lose with these fantastic yarns! Come in and check them out.

His 'n Hers Hat Pattern

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-01-07T19:43:05-07:00

This is a hat pattern we put together to show Rozetti's "Always Surprise" self-patterning yarn can be used to great affect.

It is soooooooo easy and it looks like you've done all the fairaisle work, when in actuality, the yarn (like self-patterning sock yarns) does all the work for you. This pattern is available free with yarn purchase!

Entrelac is on this weekend

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2009-01-05T17:10:26-07:00

The Enrelac class is a definite go this weekend and there are still some available spots if you are interested in learning this intriguing technique. Call or drop by the shop to sign up.

There are lots of other knit and crochet classes running though to April...be sure to check out our Classes page.

New Year's Resolutions

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-12-28T17:18:41-07:00

Lose weight...check...exercise more...check...update this blog more often...check, check, check! That is one major goal this year ... to update this page with new store happenings and news at least once a week.

That's one reason why I've moved the blog to the home page, so that you get the most recent updates as soon as you get to the website. You can also use the RSS feed at the bottom of the column on the left so that you'll get automatic updates delivered to your web browser.

It's going to be a brand new year in just a couple of days. I'd like to wish everyone a Happy New Year all the best in 2009!

Happy Holidays!!! - Holiday Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-12-16T11:57:39-07:00

We will be open as usual during our regular business hours throughout the holiday season with a few exceptions. We will be closing a little early on Christmas Eve and New Year's eve to spend time with our families. Holiday hours:

December 24 - 10:30 am - 3:30PM
Christmas Day - Closed
Boxing Day - Closed

New Year's Eve - 10:30 - 4:00PM
New Years' Day - Closed

We wish you and your families a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to happy knitting & crocheting with you in 2009!

Fall Classes

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-08-19T15:07:57-06:00

September is just a couple of weeks away...and that means a return to classes!

We've got some great classes and fabulous instructors lined up for the fall. Read about them on-line on our Classes page, and you can also download a copy for further reference.

Little Can of Paint

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-04-15T13:32:52-06:00

Check these little beauties out! They're the Little Can of Paint sock kits from Lorna's Laces and we just a dozen or so in.

The kits come creatively packaged in a transparent plastic paint can, complete with a pattern and two hanks of Lorna's Laces luscious, hand-dyed Shepherd's Wool sock yarn...enough to make a pair of socks.

I've just completing a pair myself and this yarn is truly wonderful to knit with, both in terms of colours and hand feel.

Plus it makes a great little gift for you or the knittter in your life!

Just in... Lorna's Laces

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-03-30T13:01:07-06:00

I just unpacked our new shipment of Lorna's Laces...wow! The colours and colour combinations are amazing and the yarn is so soft too.

I was recently in Chicago and had the opportunity to tour the studio where Beth, the owner of Lorna's Laces, and her staff dye the yarn. It's all lovingly done in small batches, by hand. I wanted to take a photo of it all to share, but my digital camera is on the fritz...likewise in the store. I can't get the camera to work to show you the display. So you'll just have to use your imagination for now and come and visit the store to see -- and dare I say 'fondle'! -- this wonderful yarn in person!

Easter Weekend Hours

info@knitandcaboodle.ca — 2008-03-21T10:36:30-06:00

Here are our Easter weekend hours:

Good Friday: NOON - 4:30
Saturday: 10:30 - 5:30
Sunday: NOON - 4:30
Monday: Closed

Happy Easter!