Stitch Therapy Brooklyn

A HELPING HAND...

2012-01-26T17:02:00.000-05:00

Maxcine,

Seeded Diamond holding two colors of
Karabella Yarns Aurora 8

You saved the day! While knitting a baby blanket as a gift for a
pregnant close friend, I discovered I'd dropped a couple stitches. I
tried to fix them myself but only made matters worse, ending up with
strange stitches going all different directions! On the phone you
invited me to come to the shop right away. Not only did you fix my
mistakes, you showed me how I could better fix them myself in the future.

You're a lifesaver. Thanks!

Claudia

JANUARY CLASSES

2012-01-06T20:36:00.000-05:00

Create a mesh with darning

Repairing the knitted fabric

Part I: Simple Repairs

Duplicate stitch

Repairing pulls
Repair a single strand break in stockinette stitch: knit side, purl side.

Bring to Class - a knit swatch

Use worsted weight yarn in a light color for your learning swatch. This is so you can see what you are doing.
Knit on needle size 6, 7 or 8. If you are a tight knitter, use 8’s. Bring a small amount of dark colored yarn.

Cast on 30 stitches with the light colored yarn. Garter stitch (knit every row) 4 rows to stabilize the edge.
Then change to stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) and knit about 4 inches. Bind off loosely.

Part II: Darning Knitted Fabric: for Large Holes

-Stabilize the edges of the hole.
-Setting up a grid along the length of the fabric

-Stabilizing the sides
-Weaving in new fabric

Bring to Class: The swatch you used for the first class OR a knitted garment that needs
darning with, if possible, matching yarn OR both.

Date: Wednesday, January 18 & 25, 2012

Time: 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Teacher: Susan C. Stewart, MD - a.k.a. The Sweater Doctor
Price: $65.00

Choose any gauge yarn you like.

Crochet Motifs
Beyond the granny square this workshop will focus on three crochet motifs. Using – 5 colors of your choosing you will learn to read written instructions to crochet multiple variations of these three motif. Use your knowledge of basic stitches to crochet the motifs to make a cowl, eternity scarf or lap blanket create a lap blanket.

The color palette is created with the use of hand painted and tonal colors.

* Use colors to add depth to a crocheted square.

* Use your knowledge of the chain, single/double crochet to expand your stitch library.

Prerequisites: Must chain, single and double crochet independently

More info: Guest blogger Evy Leonard talks about her creative process (look in the archive from last month.)

Date: January 21, 2012

Time: 1:30-4:30pm

Teacher: Evy Leonard

Fair Isle and Steeking

Snowflake comes alive through color

Using five colors to paint a picture learn two distinctive technique in this class:

-To knit while using two strands of yarn at a time.

- Understand the facets of working and reading Fair Isle patterns.

- Use the process of "steeking" to cut your knit with scissors.

Class project will be a coffee cup cozie. You must printout your own copy of the pattern - Free download available: http://bit.ly/rRaLWE Materials must be purchased at Stitch Therapy.

Cost of yarn and needles not included in class fee.

Teacher - Kris Percival
Date: January 14, & 28, 2012
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Cost: $100.00

Prerequisites: Must Cast-on, knit and purl without assistance

Wine Tasting

An Italian Lambrusco

A refreshing wine with a sparkling bouquet that can vary from fruity to floral with hints of violets and heather. On the palate it is zesty, with nice fruit flavors and a clean finish. One important thing to keep in mind is that a Lambrusco can be either dry or sweet.

Tuesday night January 24, 2012, 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Call to book your seat in one or more of these classes.

UPCOMING CLASS: REPAIRING KNITTED FABRIC / DARNING KNITTED FABRIC

2011-12-21T16:47:00.000-05:00

Part I: Simple Repairs

Where is the yarn going?
Duplicate stitch

Repairing pulls
Repairing a single strand break in stockinette stitch: knit side, purl side.

Bring to Class - a knit swatch

Use worsted weight yarn in a light color for your learning swatch. This is so you can see what you are doing. Knit on needle size 6, 7 or 8. If you are a tight knitter, use 8’s. Bring a small amount of dark colored yarn.

Cast on 30 stitches with the light colored yarn. Garter stitch (knit every row) 4 rows to stabilize the edge. Then change to stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) and knit about 4 inches. Bind off loosely.

Part II: Darning Knitted Fabric: for Large Holes

Stabilizing the edges of the hole.
Setting up a grid along the length of the fabric

Stabilizing the sides
Weaving in new fabric

Bring to Class: The swatch you used for the first class OR a knitted garment that needs darning with, if possible, matching yarn OR both.

Date: Wednesday, January 18 & 25, 2012

Time: 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Teacher: Susan C. Stewart, MD - a.k.a. The Sweater Doctor

Price: $65.00

Call to reserve your space.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2011-12-14T20:22:00.000-05:00

Mitered Border

Happy Holidays --

Please join me on this Thursday night for a toast in celebration of the holidays and happiness in the coming new year.

This is the first in a series of wine & yarn pairings at Stitch Therapy, I just received a shipment of a special hand painted alpaca from the state of Missouri, named for famous operas, the colors are spectacular and the fiber is soft to the touch.

The project choices are endless including this mitered scarf out of one hank every row is knit. Or the lace triangular shawl made from two hanks. Crocheters I have a few stitches that are easy to commit to memory to make a scarf, shawl or blanket. The gauge of this yarn ranges from a DK to an Aran I would recommend a 7 (H) to a 10 (J) for your knitting needle or (crochet Hook).

TASTINGS

YARN

HPKY - Hand Painted Knitting Yarns

- 100% Alpaca
- In 15 different Hand-painted and tonal colors
- 500 yards per hank - hand dyed in Missouri
- Projects - dress Kit, mitered scarf with picot edge

WINE

Domaine des Nugues "Made by G" Sparkling Gamay
Beaujolais, France, Gamay

Made by G is a sparkling red wine, produced from 25 year old Gamay vines.

This fruity, floral and fresh style of sparkling wine is a true delight!

Our local wine shop: Picada Y Vino carries the featured wine just three doors down from Stitch Therapy.

Date: Thursday, December 15th from 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Guest Hostess: Kim Anthony Davis

Hope you can make it.

Connect Online

www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.com

www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.blogspot.com www.stitchtherapyknitalong.blogspot.com http://stitchtherapybrooklyn.tumblr.com

Twitter: @StitchTherapy

SHALIMAR A MUSIC GROUP from the 70's

2011-12-09T17:08:00.000-05:00

Today Shalimar is the yarn company behind lovely yarns like "Breathless" and "Honey" two yarns that just arrived today at Stitch Therapy. The yardage on both is plentyful and fiber is soft to the touch.

Breathless: merino, cashmere and silk

Breathless, our newest yarn offering, is a stunning 3-ply superwash blend of Merino, cashmere and silk.

With a generous 420 yards, Breathless is wonderful for any one-skein project, small sweaters or a large pair of socks.

100% Superwash Australian Merino

With it's scrumptious hand, sheen and drape, Breathless is the perfect choice.

FREE PATTERN: Fingerless Gloves in Honey

Honey Worsted is our superwash worsted with a generous 250 yards. Machine washable with a soft and sqooshy hand, Honey Worsted is a versatile yarn for sweaters, accessories and afghans.

GUEST BLOGGER: INSPIRED CROCHET MOTIFS by Evy Leonard

2011-11-02T18:54:00.004-04:00

200 Crotchet Blocks for blankets, throws and afghans by Jan Eaton

On a beautiful spring day about 5 ½ years ago I walked into Stitch Therapy in Park Slope Brooklyn – the yarns in the window were beautiful and the store’s name called out to me. I have always appreciated handmade crafts and my home is filled with handblown glass and ceramic objects, art and textiles. Perhaps I was ready to try my hand. The store's owner, Maxcine encouraged me to begin.

In the store I was drawn to the Interweave Crochet magazine. As I thumbed through the magazine I came upon a photo of a young girl wrapped in a fabulous afghan the Babette Blanket. I bought the magazine and starting thinking. The afghan had an intricate pattern that required 17 different colors and 150 different sized squares. Since I don’t like to follow instructions I decided to choose my own colors. Little did I know that the pattern called for a sport/sock weight yarn and I chose bulky Manos de Uruguay yarns. I started crocheting and my afghan grew and became a bedspread for my daughter to take to college!! After that I learned more about yarn – the different weights and textures.

Touching the yarn, choosing colors and textures, and watching them weave together to make beautiful afghans was so much fun that I made many more Babette Blankets and happily gave them as gifts. Before I started each blanket I determined the color wave and then shopped for yarn. During my visits to Stitch Therapy I chose yarn for their color and weight, and sought out yarns that would add texture to my life. Maxcine always carried great options.

I started weaving, and stopped crocheting for awhile. Again, watching the colors and textures of yarn create patterns and fabrics was thrilling.

Six months ago I got itchy to crochet again. I needed a new project and new direction. I sat with the book 200 Crotchet blocks for blankets, throws and afghans by Jan Eaton and decided to design my own afghan using 5-6 different square patterns and focusing of a color wave. My quest for yarns began.

My first project would be colors that I adore - fuscia, chartreuse and purple. On my travels to Stitch Therapy I’d pick up both solid and variegated yarns within the basic colorwave. The variegated yarns that I chose turned out to be my favorites and I bought every color by a very special manufacturer that Stitch Therapy stocked. I’d also look for unusual textures to add to the depth of the project. Many of the yarns were DK or sock weight. I created a pattern starting from the middle and working rounds with a common theme – the centers and edges would all be the same color. What tied the rows together was that the same yarns were used (but in different orders) inside the square. As the afghan grew I was mesmerized by its beauty and very proud that I could make such a wonderful work of art.

I was then on a roll. It was so much fun working with sock weight yarn, and the afghans felt so soft and light, that weight became my medium. Onward to my next project – pinks, oranges and purple. Then blues, greens and purples. Always, I insert a few different colors that pop out to add interest and fun.

What these projects give me is a chance to play with colors - connect them and have them speak in different ways. They also enable me to have a quest – finding new and unusual yarn. Before I travel I look online for the local yarn stores and poke around because surely other communities have a fiber artist's treasure trove just like we have in Brooklyn.

I have now come full circle. Maxcine has asked me to facilitate a crocheting circle next year to work with crotchers to explore their creative side, by creating and designing projects using patterns and yarns of their choice. What fun!

Crochet Motif workshop led by Evy Leonard January 21th 1:30-4:30pm - call to reserve a space.

BE PART OF THE CURE: Light the Night Walk

2011-09-25T20:15:00.002-04:00

My long time friend Suzanne Donaldson is walking for the cause --

EVERY FOUR MINUTES—yes it's a cancer letter!—someone is diagnosed and every 10 minutes someone passes from blood cancer. As many of you know, I happen to be the one in that equation who wasdiagnosed 5 years ago and faced it again this Christmas. Is there an oddersaying than Christmas chemo? I don't think so. In addition, I just successfullyfinished an 8 week protocol that has me feeling better, stronger, and happierthan I have been in years!

So then I got home to get in bed and read thepaper the other night, it became very clear to me that I need to throw myselfback into an effort that is near and dear to me. I was in the obit section,grieving over two people I don't know. Dr. Bruce Dan, who so brilliantly madethe public aware of toxic shock syndrome, died at age 64 after a brilliantcareer of research and awareness, from a complication from a bone marrowtransplant for leukemia. The other brave soul, Andy Whitfield, only 39, Australianand super hot (think of TV show Spartacus; he was the lead), died ofnon-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Two out of the three obits on page were fromblood cancers. I was stunned and realized I cannot wait any longer to fundraisefor my walk, Light the Night, which will talk place on 0ctober 14th.
Help me do something about it.

Walk with me across a bridge on October 5th,2011 in LLS’s annual Light the Night walk. If you live in Brooklyn, I won'ttell that you carry on and get yourselves home that night. But the other lotwill walk proudly with me supporting a cause that impacts my life in so manyways. Visit here to join us:
http://pages.lightthenight.org/nyc/Manhattn11/TeamHairy

If you're afraid of heights, just donate.

For those of you who know me well, I am not aquitter. I now embrace the needles and the reminder in my bod that life is soincredibly wonderful.

So walk, read this article in NY Times, “An Immune System Trained the Kill Cancer” (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/13/health/13gene.html), donate, spread the word, and most of allhelp me raise awareness. Get your blood checked yearly and call me if you needreminding.
Donate now!!!

http://pages.lightthenight.org/nyc/Manhattn11/sdonaldcsq

If you are a Glamour staffer we are teaming upwith SELF, Teen Vogue, and Vanity Fair for one big team! Should be super fun!

STITCH THERAPY VACATION

2011-08-27T19:18:00.001-04:00

Dad budding plants -

Irene is forcing me to take a day of rest so I will be closed on Sunday.

This leads me to my vacation, as you know Stitch Therapy is usually closed on Mondays this week the shop will also
be closed on Tuesday - Thursday.

If Irene allows my flight to depart on Tuesday I will fly to the lovely Island of Jamaica to bake my father a cake for his 92nd birthday.

Composting --

Stitch Therapy will re-open for Labor Day Weekend, lucky you The Yarn Monkey will be man-ning the shop,please stop by Tony knits, crochets and designs. Some new yarns have arrived and there are many more to come.

"Hey folks, next week I'll be running the shop from Friday to Sunday (Sept. 2 to 4) at Stitch Therapy, A Fine Yarn Shop,
while Maxcine takes a well deserved trip to Jamaica. Drop in and say hello, get some basic knitting advice, check out
the fine selection of yarn, hooks and needles." Tony

Ten minutes from the house -

See you when I return -

SUPPORT THE ARTS: SHANNON BURNETTE GOES TO INDIA

2011-08-21T19:14:00.000-04:00

I am thrilled to announce that members of the Green Lotus Project will be playing live to my film works this coming Thursday, August 25 at Baluchi's Park Slope!

The event is also being promoted on the neighborhood blogs: All About Fifth Avenue and Park Slope Fifth Avenue BID! And a small raffle is in the works...stay tuned!

Thank you for your RSVP's --- this is a friendly update!

For those who are in Brooklyn this coming Thursday please make it out --- don't let the SUGGESTED donation keep you from supporting & enjoying a lovely evening of exchange!

For those who can't make it but want to share their generous spirit --- go to my FUNDRAISER ONLINE!

Celebration & Cultural Exchange

Please join us outside on the lovely patio at Baluchi’s Park Slope to celebrate & experience some cultural exchange in support of an international artist exchange in India this Fall!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

6:00 to 9:00 pm Patio at Baluchi’s Indian Food Park Slope -- 310 5th Avenue between 2nd & 3rd Sts.

A special thank you to Baluchi’s and Arthur for their sponsorship of this evening, facebook likeBaluchi’s Park Slope! The evening is also kindly co-sponsored by Artists on the Brink.

Suggested donation at door, $30 ~ Kids $10 ~

donations made in advance through the Fundraiser page automatically adds you to the guest list!

6:00pm exotic pass around appetizers & discounted cocktails begins

7:00pm screening of works in process by Shannon Brunette with a few of the amazing members of the Green Lotus Project!

7:30pm classical Indian Odissi dance performance by Mala Desai

Children & friends welcomed!

Please see fundraising page for details on how your support will be utilized, I am ever so grateful for all the support of friends, family & strangers alike. Thank you all in advance for this exciting evening in support of an exceptional opportunity to participate in The Raghurajpur International Art/Craft Exchange.

About Mala Desai: The divinity of being – is dance…An Indian classical dancer who believes that dance nurtures the soul and leads you to experience ultimate freedom. Mala has performed at innumerable events in India and America. Most recently Mala was presented to a packed audience in “Om Namo” by Professor Kathryn Posin at The Gallatin School of NYU in NEW unique Odissi-Ballet-Modern dance technique fusion choreography to music from the 2011 Grammy-Nominated album “Soul Call” by Chandrika Krishnamurhty Tandon.

Original Lakshmi drawing: created by artist Nicole S. Fernandez for this special event.

BOOK READING/TRUNK SHOW: "Hastings & Flitt Detective Agency"

2011-08-14T20:07:00.000-04:00

"Hastings & Flitt Detective Agency"

Coming in Sunday, October 23rd, The Adventures of Miss Flitt's final book, Vol. I, Chapter IV, "Hastings & Flitt Detective Agency"

Join us at Stitch Therapy for the book reading and a trunk show of knit designs from the final chapter.

The Adventures of Miss Flitt's final book, "Hastings & Flitt Detective Agency," finds Emma and Amity back at home, but when Emma receives an odd letter, Emma and Amity again find themselves embroiled in mystery. Enjoy over twenty full-color watercolors and a set of knitwear designs by Beth Hahn. Knit the organic Branches & Leaves Shawl or the soft and flowing Aeolian Harp Wrap. Begin your holiday gift knitting with Emma's City Beret, a simple lace hat with a decorative cast-on, or prepare for winter's cold evenings by knitting the sparkling Nocturne Hat. Create an everyday classic with the Gretel Sweater--originally released in winter, 2010--Gretel is a vintage-inspired pullover with a mock honeycomb yoke and slip stitch detailing," finds Emma and Amity back at home, but when Emma receives an odd letter, Emma and Amity again find themselves embroiled in mystery. Enjoy over twenty full-color watercolors and a set of knitwear designs by Beth Hahn. Knit the organic Branches & Leaves Shawl or the soft and flowing Aeolian Harp Wrap. Begin your holiday gift knitting with Emma's City Beret, a simple lace hat with a decorative cast-on, or prepare for winter's cold evenings by knitting the sparkling Nocturne Hat. Create an everyday classic with the Gretel Sweater--originally released in winter, 2010--Gretel is a vintage-inspired pullover with a mock honeycomb yoke and slip stitch detailing.

LOCATION: Stitch Therapy, 335 5th Avenue bet. 3rd and 4th Street

DATE: Sunday, October 23rd

TIME: 3:00 - 7:00pm

RUTH MARSHAL: ANIMAL PELTS KNIT IN COLOR

2011-08-06T18:05:00.001-04:00

Ruth Marshal at work

Some of the most beautiful and complex patterns are found in the natural world. Artist Ruth Marshall will teach students how to translate intricate patterns in nature onto a design chart, which they will create a piece of colorful, knitted art. The goal of the workshop is to teach participants the skill of visually interpreting an image, so that they can leave with the knowledge of how to knit creative patterns of their own design. This workshop and art exhibit, scheduled for October 30th from 1:30 - 4:30pm at Stitch Therapy in Park Slope Brooklyn, is inspired by Ruth Marshall's message of wildlife conservation and her fascination with the intricate designs on the coats of spotted and striped cats such as the ocelot, leopard, and tiger. Samples of the knitted pelts will be exhibited October 30 - November 9, 2011

Knit from the chart.

By studying photographs of these exotic cats, the artist will demonstrate how to draw a design onto a grid layout, which will serve as your knitting chart. This chart will help you to envision your four-inch knitted square, which you will then complete during the course of the workshop. Using two contrasting colors you will see how beautiful the coats of these animals are and also how knitting is a fantastic medium with which to translate nature. Students should know how to knit and purl.

Reptile

To view more of Ruth Marshal's work.

Stitch Therapy workshop
Sunday, October 30, 2011
TIME: 1:30 - 4:30pm
335 5th Avenue
Between (3rd - 4th streets)
Park Slope Brooklyn, NY
PRICE: $95.00

Call to reserve a seat

WIN A KNITTING LESSON

2011-07-31T19:52:00.000-04:00

Learn to knit

Are you available on Thrsday August 4th at 2:00pm. How would you like to win a free lesson in Continental Knitting with knitting needles and yarn included.

The rules: Must be at least 18 years old and have the desire to knit, and also mention this raffle when you call. There are seats available for two lucky winners all you have to do is call the Stitch Therapy @ 718-/398-2020 on Tuesday August 2nd between the hours of 2:00 - 3:00 pm.

This is a random opportunity for caller number 10 and caller number 25 - these two callers will each be awarded one seat.

GOOD LUCK - If you are already a knitter please forward this message to a friend.

KNITTED GLASS

2011-07-24T20:34:00.000-04:00

Holy Cow!

CHIC SIMPLICITY

2011-07-22T16:41:00.000-04:00

LANA GROSSA Ibiza Self Stiping Ribbon

These are the days for creativity with just the simplest of effort no matter your choice of yarn or tool, either a pair of knitting needles or a crochet hook.

Lana Grossa offers just that in it's self stripping ribbon in a cotton blend "Ibiza".  As you knit or crochet "Ibiza" it develops into
a light texture while the color change before your eyes with gradations of either gray, apricot, rose, yellow or grape.

If you knit then 20 stitches in "garter" will do on a size 11us, if you crochet "the bushy" stitch on a size "k" us, this stitch is a two row repeat that self scallops on three edges, the foundation row is done once and the second row is repeated for the desired length. I recommend an eternity scarf - two balls will do either, perfect for the early days of fall.

JULY: STITCH THERAPY BROOKLYN

2011-07-16T19:03:00.000-04:00

Garter stitch cabled cowl

People if it is too hot to knit or crochet I have attached a few links to alternative craft ideas to entertain you through the end of the summer. The first is cardboard weaving (Woven Place Mats Pattern Number: L0676) and the second is a pom pom rug (Pom-Pom Rug Pattern Number: L0081) bOth made with yarn.

I just finished my second cowl in this beautiful garter stitch cable stitch, the space in-between each cable act as a buttonhole. Yarn is a worsted weight this sample is in Lana Grossa Alta Moda Alpaca - charcoal with black buttons. A quick and chic accessory for the coming season.

Magic Loop Samples Fall 2011

These fingerless glove samples just arrived from Maine where Kris Percival test knit the projects for the next round of Magic Loop classes. If you use Ravelry.com go to Pumpkinbutter's projects and click the "magic loop" tab for a link to the patterns. At the end of September the Magic Loop class will run every other week on Sunday's check stitchtherapybrooklyn.com in the next few weeks for the new schedule.

Vintage Onsie

Did you see this cute onsie knit in Schulana Merino Cotton 135
the pattern is written in three sizes from the neck-down.

Check Stitch Therapy out online:

Website
www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.com
Blog
www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.blogspot.com
Knit-Along Blog
www.stitchtherapyknitalong.blogspot.com
Tumblr
http://stitchtherapybrooklyn.tumblr.com/

Twitter
@stitchtherapy on Twitter
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002335101582#!/pages/Stitch-Therapy-A-Fine-Yarn-Shop/66119433941

Decorative Edge Crocheted

2011-07-13T20:57:00.000-04:00

Stitch Therapy BKLYN (@StitchTherapy) has shared a Tweet with you:

"RedHeartYarns: Wanting to add some girly flair to your work? Learn how to do a picot edging! http://tinyurl.com/6ekbb2y #crochet #tutorial"
--http://twitter.com/RedHeartYarns/status/85750823631585280

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Triangular Shawls by Evelyn Clark

2011-07-03T21:37:00.001-04:00

Saturday Sureka came in from the state of Virginia,the last time she was in the shop I recommended Evelyn Clark's book on triangular shawls. That was about three months ago -one phone call later Sureka has two beautiful shawls. The red is the hand-painted EuroFlax from Louet Sale and the magenta is Karabella Yarns Super Platinum. And one is a gift for a very lucky person, Sureka is visiting NYC with her husband for the 4th of July weekend.

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STITCH THERAPY PATTERN READING

2011-06-25T18:47:00.000-04:00

A Mystery Stitch

KNIT

Learn the meaning of all the abbreviations and symbols that make up the intricate patterns of cable and lace. Starting with Volume One of the Mystery Stitch –Along you will interpret and execute step by step instructions that reveal a pattern with each row repeat. At the end of each session you will understand the meaning of: k4, *yo, skp, p1, k2tog, yo, k8; repeat from* end last repeat k4.

Price: $30 per session

Time: 7 - 9pm

Dates: July 13, 20, 27 – Wednesday nights

Pre-Reqiusite: must be able to cast-on, knit and purl independently.

Bushy Stitch Crocheted

CROCHET

Learn the meaning of all the abbreviations and symbols that make up the intricate patterns of Basic, chevron and lace. I have chosen a few stitches to take you beyond the single crochet stitch. Interpret and execute step by step instructions that reveal a pattern with each row repeat. At the end of each session you will be able to understand the meaning of: 1sc into first st, *5ch, 1sc into next 5ch arch, 5ch, 1sc into 3^rd dc of next 5dc; rep from * ending last rep with 1sc into top of ch, turn.

Price: $30 per session

Time: 7 – 9pm

Dates: July 14, 21, 28 – Thursday nights

Pre-Reqiusite: must be able to chain and do a single crochet stitch independently.

Call to reserve a seat.

Check out Twitter, knit along blog and online shop.

This is a Great jacket for any fall season!

2011-06-08T22:48:00.002-04:00

http://bit.ly/imhfeT working link

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SHELL: DAY TO EVENING

2011-06-07T20:06:00.000-04:00

Back view: in the round knit from the bottom up.

Front View: with a cable twist.

Just finished - Karabella Yarns Silk Organznia Hand Painted

TUNISIAN CROCHET RE-INVENTED

2011-06-04T18:47:00.000-04:00

Bulky Cowl

Tunisian crochet is on the rise again, this time novel techniques such as lace patterns and working in the round are allowing for a greater variation in designs. The test piece for this class is a two colored cowl, worked in the round, using a hand crafted oversized Tunisian crochet hook with a long flexible cord. Participants will get an insight into the possibilities of using Tunisian crochet as design elements in knitting projects.

Techniques covered: casting on, estimating size, Tunisian simple stitch, Tunisian purl stitch, seed stitch pattern, working in the round with one or two colors, increases, decreases and binding off.

Ragga (raggaknits on Ravelry) is an Icelandic knitting instructor, designer, entrepreneur and the CEO of KNITTING ICELAND. Ragga’s classes are creative and fun and enlightening. Her firm belief is that knowledge liberates you and enables her/him to think outside the charts and beyond the patterns.

Tunisian crochet hook with a long flexible cord

Materials: Knitting Iceland has recently put on the market an oversized hook for Tunisian crochet. Mr. Jumbo is both suitable for working on flat pieces and in the round and opens up many exciting possibilities for fiber enthusiasts.

Dates: June 22nd 6:30-9:30 pm Wednesday evening.

Material not included in the class fee: tool $28.00 yarn cost is separate.

EXPLORING YOUR PERSONAL COlOR PALETTE

2011-05-17T17:33:00.001-04:00

Lana Grossa Ibiza Cotton Blend Ribbon

When you walk into a yarn shop these days the yarns sometimes call to you before you can decide on your next creation. All the pure, bright and clear colors reach in and pull on the pleasure strings drawing on memories from your past. Have you ever considrered why you like or choose a color.

Traditionally we all have our own personal color pallette, if you look though your yarn stash and seperate each yarn by color group you will find that within your stash each color might have an intimate relationship with the next. Why does this mean anything to you, well that would be up to you what are you going to make with the yarn in your basket full hanks or scraps that are leftover. First seperate by gauge and then by color this is an opportunity to see what yarns you own, it is also fun.

Sarah's Rambling Rows Blanket

What do you have and what will you be able to make think about how you can create a new fabric. Will you put two or three strands of yarn together creating a larger gauge and a tweedy texture for a chunky cowl or will you stripe a group of colors together for a neckdown button up? My friend Sarah made a beautiful Rambling Rows baby blanket out of scrap yarns left over from a few years of earlier knit and crochet projects. Rambling Rows is a modular knit, no sewing knit one square at a time all attached as you go. Worked in five color and all mapped out -- you can create the palette using as many colors as you like and wherever you see the colors fitting in.
Sarah makes many baby gifts, however after gifting the blanket she later told me that she wished she had kept that one.

Susan's Rambling Rows in Zitron Opus 1

The gem tones that Sarah chooses with each project somehow came together to create a lovely piece of comfort for a beautiful baby. When I saw it each little parcel of color worked to enhance another Sarah was the designer. This is whereyou come in, the secret is that you have already begon the design process when you chose your colors.

Neckdown Stripes.

When I choose the yarn for Stitch Therapy I sometimes hold my head because it is the most nerve racking thing that I have to do. Selecting color involves so many elements come it is not just the colors that are in my personal palette I have to envision how the colors that I don't like enhance the ones that I do like. Then I have to remember the colors that you like and the colors that you pair together. And last do I have a full range from yellow to black.

Crocheted Stripes.

All you have to do is choose the colors you like!

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KNIT ALONG CONTINUES ---

2011-04-13T17:25:00.001-04:00

Wollack from Ravelry.com

Kaffekaren from Ravelry.com

Lovely photo!

The Mystery is still growing while a number of blankets are being complete.

This stitch-along will continue throughout the summer and beyond. The true stitch names are still a mystery so join in.

SHAWL KNIT-ALONG - WITH DESIGNER BETH HAHN

2011-03-29T19:49:00.000-04:00

Join Beth Hahn in June for a Shawl Knit-Along. The designer will guide and advise you through The Seance Shawl Saturday June 4, 11, and 18th 1:30pm - 3:00pm. Take one or all three sessions.

Pattern is available in Volume 1, Chapter III - The Adventures of Miss Flitt or by single sheet pattern - http://www.missflitt.com/

Yarn must be purchased from Stitch Therapy.

June 4, 11, & 18th get started with one or attend all three.

I.R.T BERET - NOW AVAILABLE at RAVELRY.COM

2011-03-16T20:45:00.000-04:00

Double knit ribbing and Traveling Vine lace stitch.

The first in a series of new hat patterns is now available for download from Stitch Therapy via Ravelry.com.
Designed by Maxcine DeGouttes, owner of Stitch Therapy, a fine yarn shop in Park Slope Brooklyn, New York the I. R. T. Beret is a quick knit that is perfect for a day when a sweet little chapeau is all you need.

Individual pattern price is $5.00

JAPANESE CHART READING

2011-01-18T13:13:00.000-05:00

Make this cowl or you select the project - Mieko has designed the cowl to teach you how to knit while reading a Japanese knitting chart. Nice a lofty this piece is knit in the round with Granite by Loop-d-Loop on a size 17 US knitting needle. Or pick your ouwn project - The Japanese book shop Kinokuniya locatedat 1073 Avenue of the Americas (212) 869-1700 has a selection of knitting books.

Pick a knitting project and our instructor will help you translate the chart to help you through the project.

Teacher - Mieko Takahashi; Date: January 9, 16, and 23, 2011; Time: 2:30-4:30 pm; Cost: $75.00

Prerequisites: Must knit & purl independently

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2010-11-23T19:01:00.000-05:00

Volume 4 http://www.stitchtherapyknitalong.blogspot.com/

Always ongoing, this Stitch-Along is meant to teach you, the knitter, how much you know about knitting. As you pick your projects and read the stitch instructions, a little voice inside your head will say, "I can do that."

IT'S ALL IN THE KNITTING

2010-11-03T18:01:00.000-04:00

Eight squares down, and eight more to go.

Using up your scrap yarn.

Congratulations to those of you who have finished the first eight squares.

Blocked to size.

This stitch-along is a true test of your pattern reading skills. Thanks for your patience.

Enjoy Volume 3!

If you are experiencing difficulty downloading the patterns, please make sure you are using an up-to-date browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. You can download them for free here:

Google Chrome

Mozilla Firefox

NEW PATTERNS

2010-10-14T21:28:00.000-04:00

CHAPTER THREE: A READING - October 23rd

2010-10-05T20:02:00.000-04:00

The Adventures of Miss Flitt, Vol. I, Part III, “The Séance,”
an Illustrated 19th C. Tale with Knitting Patterns.

The third book of this illustrated mystery, "The Séance," sends Emma, Amity, Nadya, and Rolie into the curious world of 19th century spiritualism. The mystery continues with over twenty full-color watercolors and a six knitwear accessories. Join the story and knit the elegant Ether Overskirt--a lace side-buttoned skirt that will dress-up any outfit; to keep the chill of the spirits at bay, work the Séance Shawl--a prettily patterned lace triangle shawl; leave your fingers free for automatic writing with the Medium's MItts--a set of soft, fingerless gloves.

“The Séance” includes over twenty full-color watercolors and will be available for purchase during the reading and online at http://www.missflitt.com/.

“The Séance” will launch at Stitch Therapy Brooklyn on October 23rd. Join us at 4 PM for a reading and art and trunk show at Stitch Therapy’s new location: 335 5th Avenue, between 3rd & 4th Street in Park Slope. “The Séance” includes over twenty full-color watercolors and will be available for purchase at Stitch therapy during the event and online at www.missflitt.com.

Picada y Vino Wine Shop located at 327 Fifth Avenue will serve a wine for your tasting.

The Dao of Knitting: Free your mind and the rest will follow.

2010-09-22T20:39:00.000-04:00

Guest Daoshi Wu Wei Lin
When my friend Maxcine asked me to write an article for her blog about knitting, I was flattered, but a little hesitant at first. I know almostnothing about knitting, quite honestly. I know a few people who knit, and another friend raises her own sheep and spins the wool into beautiful organically dyed yarns, but I have never knit myself, and it all seems rather esoteric and mysterious. But then, so (probably) does Daoism to someone unfamiliar with the term. So I put aside my doubts and agreed to write the article.You could ask, and rightfully so, what a priest from an ancient and obscure Chinese religion could possibly contribute to a subject that he admittedly knows next to nothing about. Hopefully, I can help you to see your art (and I do believe that it is an art and you are artists) in a fresh light. Perhaps this will help you to see a problem in a new way, or simply help you to gain a new appreciation of your needlework and yourself.

First, I need to explain a couple of terms so that we are speaking the same language. Dao is the fundamental concept underlying Daoism. Simply put, “Dao” means “theway”, or “the path”. It can also mean “the method”. Everything we experience with our senses is the Dao. The entire universe is a manifestation of the Dao. Yin and Yang, which literally mean the dark and light sides of a mountain, are the female and male, negative and positive aspects of the Dao. This is graphically represented by the Yin/Yang symbol, or “Taiji” – the supreme ultimate. The symbol shows the universal dance of these aspects, constantly changing, constantly moving, each containing the seed of the other. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the energy inherent in something. Everything has qi energy, either yin or yang, or some combination of both.

How in the world does this relate to knitting or crochet? That’s a very good question. If we understand that Daocan also mean a “way”,

or a “method” then we can certainly say that there is a Dao of needlework. As artists, you have an individual “way” or “method” of working and creating also. For thetime being, I would ask you to spend time focusing on this method, your method, and not the final product. If you celebrate the process, and truly put yourself into it, the end product will naturally be an outgrowth of that. The next time you pick up needles and wool, consider them alittle more closely.

These are your tools and media, the same as a painter has brushes and paint. You create art that is not only beautiful, but practical as well! That is harmonious indeed. If pure beauty alone can be considered passive – or yin, then being able to wear the thing of beauty to stay warm could be considered active – or yang. See? Your art is already balanced and harmonious, without you having to do anything special! Don’t worry about the end result. Consider your needles. Are they wood, metal, plastic? All are valid, and have an energy specific to themselves. Once you start thinking about that, you can decide if that energy is what you want to bring to the piece that you are working on. Wood is considered yang, metal is yin. They would impart their inherent energies into your work. Even plastic, which is a product of the earth, has energy. Earth energy is yin and yang in balance, therefore plastic needles could be considered more or less neutral.

Now to your wool. Is it natural fiber, or synthetic? Animal fibers (wool, silk) are generally considered yang, while those derived from plants (cotton, linen) would be yin. What color is it? Chinese color theory as it relates to qi is a whole school of thought unto itself! Certain colors are considered yin or yang, of course, but they also have an effect on certain organs and therefore our physical and mental health. Briefly, green affects the liver, red the heart, yellow the spleen, white the lungs, and black/dark blue the kidneys.

Don’t be overwhelmed. You don’t even need to know all of this. The next time you start a project, trust your instincts. Don’t try too hard! This is Dao. There is a very important concept in Daoism called “wu wei” which means non-doing, or more appropriately “non-striving”. Pick needles that feel good in your hands. It doesn’t matter if they are finely crafted bamboo or wooden needles, or something inexpensive from a mega-store, as long as they are comfortable in your hands, and appropriate for the project. They will become an extension of your hands and your creativity will flow from your hands into the needles, and into the work. What energy the needles bring on their own is only in addition to what you bring. Pick yarn that you like the look and feel of. Note whether it is natural or synthetic, but that doesn’t matter if it makes you feel good working with it. That is the energy that will go into the project.

Now for the process. Remember “wu wei”? Don’t stress about the project. Try not to worry about stitch counting. Is stress and worry the energy that you want to go into that baby blanket? If you are worrying about the color, stressing about the stitches, obsessing about getting it done on a deadline, I guarantee that is the energy that will flow from you into the work. Instead, trust in your own skills. Give yourself plenty of time and the right resources to finish the project. Then make it a meditation. Soon, you will find yourself in “the zone”. Your hands, confident in their skill, will free your mind from worrying about the details. But don’t let your mind wander aimlessly! Focus on putting the joy that you feel while knitting into the project. When you are in this state you become what Daoists call an “empty vessel”. An empty vessel is open, receptive, able to be filled with the Dao. Your actions will become effortless, you will achieve balance, “wu wei”. Your work will be a manifestation of the Dao; balanced, perfect, and beautiful.

道长無爲臨

Ginkgo Grove Daoist Center
http://www.ginkgogrove.org/

VOLUME TWO: IN DEMAND

2010-09-09T17:14:00.000-04:00

Image by http://www.thecompletefabrication.blogspot.com/

This stitch-along has reached as far as Australia and is a virtual success. So far I have heard from teams of friendly knitters making the blanket as a baby shower gift and solo knitters using their subway time wisely. No matter how far the Mystery reaches the hookup is taking place online through Ravelry.com, Facebook.com and the right here. Look for the release of Volume Two available now at http://www.stitchtherapyknitalong.blogspot.com/.

MY FAVORITE YARN SHOP by Beth Hahn

2010-09-01T19:53:00.000-04:00

Had I never gone to Stitch Therapy, it is very possible that The Adventures of Miss Flitt would not exist. When I first began to visit Maxcine’s store, I was not an experienced knitter. I harbored a vague terror of knitting in the round, but I fell in love with the alpaca Baby Twist. It’s soft palette and softer feel called to me. I must knit a hat, I thought, a hat in the round, and so I approached the counter with some trepidation. Maxcine asked me a series of pointed questions: Can you tell the difference between a knit and a purl stitch? Do you know how to decrease? Have you knit in the round before?

I bought the yarn, made the hat, knew so little that I wore it wrong side out, and took it to show Maxcine. “Look at that!” She said. “How beautiful!” I looked down at my work and felt proud. I bought yarn and knitted a second hat for my husband. By then I had figured out that I was wearing my hat the wrong way, so I corrected his. Again I took my hat back to the shop, and again, I was congratulated on my achievement.

What next? I wondered. A sweater? I chose a light blue mohair and went to work on a Karabella shawl-collared pullover pattern I’d fallen in love with. It was a tricky. The first thing I had to do was knit a turned picot edge using a set of needles and one extra, smaller needle to hold the turning stitches. I was stumped, but I knew where to go. Brandi, the official Miss Flitt model and a Stitch Therapy employee, set me on the right track. Her directions were easy to follow, and she was patient with me.

When I finished the pieces, I washed and blocked them, and then it was time to sew everything together. Oh dear! How to sew a sweater together? How to get those tidy seams and clean lines? I went back to the shop, joined a Sunday night knitting circle, and was taught by Tony Limauco, a wonderful designer, and an expert at the mattress stitch.

I could have stopped there, but I didn’t want to. I wanted to design my own sweater, and so I did a watercolor of a girl holding a book and wearing a purple sweater with a tie at the neck. She looked vaguely 60s and vaguely French, so I called her Claudette and wrote a few paragraphs about her sweater collection. She lived on the Left Bank, rode a bicycle, and carried the kind of satchel I remembered seeing in Truffaut’s Small Change.

I brought my watercolors to Stitch Therapy. “Look at this!” Maxcine said. “This is beautiful. Can you do more?” she asked. “Maybe you could do some for the shop.” I felt shy. After all, I hadn’t put pencil to paper in over five years. It was only my desire to design a sweater that prompted the watercolor. I went home and did a drawing specifically for Maxcine. It was a thank you gift, and she uses it as her avatar on Ravelry.

Gradually, it began to dawn on me, as I continued to knit and paint and write, that I might put a book together, and when I told Maxcine about it, again she was enthusiastic. She said we should do an art show and a reading. She’d always wanted to do a reading at the shop, and wouldn’t this be perfect? She never once thought I might not be able to finish the work, or that when I did, it wouldn’t be something she’d want to show.

We launched the first book of The Adventures of Miss Flitt series, “The Strange Case of the Magician’s Cabinet”, in October, 2009, and we launched the second, “Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens” in May.

Maxcine still asks me pointed questions, but now they are more about business and marketing than knitting. She has been able to answer questions that I would otherwise be clueless about: What’s the difference between a copyright and a trademark? What sort of tax do you place on knitting goods in New York?

I buy most of my yarn at Stitch Therapy because the yarns are lovely, elegant, and classic, and I like to visit the shop, sit at the little round table, and talk to Maxcine about the progress of the next installment in the Miss Flitt series or the yarns she’s thinking about ordering for the new season. There’s always something to admire in the shop—Maxcine’s hat designs are inspiring, and I love to see other customers’ projects. Stitch Therapy is a friendly, comfortable place, and for me it is a uniquely wonderful place, because it is the true home of The Adventures of Miss Flitt.

For more information or to purchase a book, please visit The Adventures of Miss Flitt online at http://www.missflitt.com/

This one's for you Sherlock! - The Mystery Blanket Stitch-Along

2010-08-04T16:50:00.000-04:00

For the creative knitter who's not afraid of a challenge, the Stitch Therapy Mystery Blanket Stitch-Along project is just for you. Experiment with a variety of knitting stitches and textures from stitch to stitch, unveiling each mystery as you knit. You play detective as clues come in the form of your favorite authors and writers; each square is named after a famous writer, perhaps giving you an indication of what to expect, or perhaps not – let's not give away too much at once! Details of their life span and a title of one of their well-known works adds to the fun.If you are daring and up for an adventure get involved! And for those of you who like the idea, but want to thread carefully, feel free to drop in to the shop on a Wednesdays between 4:00 – 6.30pm to pick out your yarn and get started with some basic stitch therapy! Happy Knitting!

Visit the knit-along blog to download your free patterns.

This summer on Wednesday between the hours of 4:00 - 6:30pm if you need help and you have purchased the yarn from Stitch Therapy feel free to drop in.

Guest Post: Knitting in Motion

2010-06-10T07:15:00.000-04:00

by Natalie Agee

Knitting has swiftly become my favorite thing to do, outside of teaching circus arts, and being an inter-disciplinary performer.

I'm a beginning knitter, and so far, each project has proven to be a very dramatic – dare I say say "theatrical" – process. Chunky yarn and larger needles are a special combo for me--they bring knitting to it's most physical; each arc, swoop, loop over, and tug feels hearty, satisfying, energetic and somewhat suspenseful, like performance.

...I bet John Cage would've loved to gather three hundred and one knitters together in concert, so musical are the sounds of those bamboo needles clicking...

On a more cerebral note: trace forms are the dynamic and invisible lines traced in space by a movement, or movement phrase. When I was beginning to study movement, I tried to draw these movement pathways so that I could "see" them for as long as I wanted. The trace forms of a knitter's path become color-saturated parts of a fabric that you can see, touch to your cheek, and give to another person.

Part of the beauty of live performance is that it exists in the moment. This, alone, makes it so completely amazing, and so worth doing. But that slightly-gone-awry, imperfect sweater, that I'll make for a special someone, may last a life-time. I feel so lucky to have the chance to experience and cherish the best of both these worlds. I can't wait for the day when I make my first knitting pattern!

ANNUAL YARN & BOOK SALE

2010-06-07T20:49:00.000-04:00

Thursday June 10 through Sunday June 13th

Here is a chance to pick up a few balls of the favorite yarns that you have been dreaming of, get a jump start on your holiday gifts with a quick summer projects.

We have lots of free patterns for creative 2-3 ball projects. I have attached two patterns that are getting alot of buzz amongst your fellow needlecrafters.

Check out www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.blogspot.com to see what we have been making.
Plan ahead and see if your favorite yarn or books are on the list.

25% OFF

Debbie Bliss Baby cashmerino, Fez, Alpaca Silk Aran
Berroco - comfort chunky
Aslan Trends Del Sur, Invernal- merino/angora, Guanaco-Alpaca Blends
Punta - Twist handpainted chunky merino, Merisock Handpainted
Loop-d-Loop - Granite
Marble chunky
Colinette - Jitterbug
Karabella Aurora Bulky
Lana Grossa - Chiara, Silkhair, Vespa, Gnocchi
Noro - Silk Garden Sock

And everything on the SALE TREE

20% OFF

Berroco Cuzco
Joseph Galler - Prime Alpaca, Pashmina
Jade Sapphire - Cashmere scarf kits for her, Mongolian Cashmere 2 ply
Alpaca with a Twist - Big Baby

15% OFF

Books and Patterns too!

Manos Del Uruguay Yarn

2010-05-30T15:00:00.000-04:00

A friend was traveling to Manos Del Uruguay in South America for a few weeks, jhe called just before he left for the airport. As you know when my friends are traveling I always recommend finding a local yarn shop or sometimes I say "can you bring me back some yarn". On his adventure he encountered this yarn shop. I asked for jewel tones and what I got were beautiful greens, pinks and yellows. come make your choice while the supply lasts.

HAT OF THE MONTH: DUCHESS

2010-05-25T09:40:00.000-04:00

The summer is a reason to keep on knitting - this Hat of the Month is a quick fashionable knit on a bulky knitting needle and takes only one hank of most yarns - the sample is knit in Berroco Cuzco. Inspired by Stitch Therapy customers the Duchess is our offering the Month of June. You will find the download for this pattern on this page.

A Quick Summer Knit: $12-18 Tank Top

2010-05-15T21:43:00.000-04:00

A quick knit from Rebecca Summer 2010 - shown in Berocco's Weekend 25% cotton 75% acrylic. Pattern free with yarn purchase.

Knit from the bottom up in the round on a 10 1/2 US. sizing to fit up to 38/40" bust. Nice detailing at the neckline - back neckline is round. Anyone can knit the top to the armhole, then if you need help, join the knitting circle to learn the details for armhole and neck shaping in a garment.

OUTDOOR CIRCLE: 5th AVE. FAIR

2010-05-13T19:30:00.000-04:00

We're setting up a tent so come join us on Sunday the 16th of May from Noon to 6pm because Stitch Therapy and Brooklyn Mercantile will be hosting a crafty afternoon. Bring your project knitting or crochet and a friend, and if your friends want to learn how to knit bring them along on this date we will be teaching people to do the knit stitch with the purchase of a ball of yarn and a pair of knitting needles.

IS IT A NECKLACE or A NECKWARMER

2010-05-12T22:15:00.000-04:00

This jewel of a knit is a nice quick project for the summer and a great accessory for the fall. While I was on vacation in Jamaica I did one strand of this necklace a day. This is Sev[en] Circles a free pattern online by Kirsten Johnstone you can find it on Ravelry.com.

I used three yarns: Lana Grossa - Chiara (mohair and viscose) in violet (lighter color), Chiara has a metallic quality which adds a shimmer, then I held two yarns together - Lana Grossa Silkhair (mohair and silk) in purple and Naturally Dawn wool and silk) in violet. When these two yarns are held together it creates a stretchy fabric.

You can knit this project in your own style the pattern calls for seven strands but I did nine. Some of my customers are making the strands longer to drape passed the collar bone. Since I am a loose knitter do I used a 24" size 4.

NEW YARN: TWEEDY PIMA

2010-05-10T15:08:00.000-04:00

Soft, $6 a ball & 109 yds!

Just Arrived: MIA

2010-04-28T16:33:00.000-04:00

BOOK READING: “Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens”

2010-04-20T19:29:00.000-04:00

SAVE the DATE: May 8, 2010

TIME: 4:00 pm

Readings by the author from The Adventures of Miss Flitt, “Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens,” an Illustrated 19th C. Tale with Knitting Patterns, to Launch at Stitch Therapy Brooklyn, New York.

When Emma Flitt and Amity Hastings enter the notorious Five Points neighborhood in search of Lucy Flitt, the mystery of the girl’s disappearance deepens. In Beth Hahn’s “Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens,” the second part in The Adventures of Miss Flitt’s four-part series, Emma and Amity meet Nadya Claudere and her son Rollie who become guides to navigating the dark side of 19^th century New York. Nadya’s back-story reveals villainous new plot twists and brings fresh and seasonal knitwear designs.

“Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens” includes the Nadya Corset and Slip, a spring/summer cotton top and matching skirt; Sharpers, a pair of silk lace gloves with thumb gusset and finger loop, and the Five Points Capelet, a short silk cape inspired by the fashion of the times. For the knitter who likes to look ahead, a longer, two-color woolen version of the cape is included. For chilly nights, the Smoke Ring Mobius is a quick, bulky lace knit that may be worn as a scarf or shawl. Finally, the knitter who sews will be overjoyed to find a collaborative pattern with sewer extraordinaire, Clara Ronk, for a cloth Emma Doll.

“Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens” will launch at Stitch Therapy Brooklyn on May 8. Join us at 3PM for a reading and art and trunk show at Stitch Therapy’s new location: 335 5th Avenue, between 3rd & 4th Street in Park Slope. “Dangerous Ladies and Opium Dens” includes over twenty full-color watercolors and will be available for purchase at Stitch therapy during the event and online at http://www.missflitt.com/. Stitch Therapy Brooklyn, a fine yarn shop, has been an integral part of the Park Slope knitting community for six years.

FINGER KNITTING

2010-04-10T03:01:00.000-04:00

Finger knitting is only one of the new classes added for the under 21 crowd - Look for parent and child finger knitting, summer camp for teens and workshops for you - click here for complete schedule.

Another FREE ENTRELAC WORKSHOP

2010-04-01T03:01:00.000-04:00

INFANTRY TRAINING

Technicolor ENTRELAC Wrap - Free project workshop with yarn purchase.

Entrelac creates a beautifully textured and plush Rubik's cube basketweave. Learn this distinctive technique and open up another world of knitting in your repertoire.

Prerequisite: Cast-on, knit stitch, purl stitch

Yarn: 3 skeins of Noro Taiyo

Needles: 11 us 24" long and DPN

Accessories: Point Protectors

Pattern: Basic Entrelac Scarf from Knitting Daily bring your own copy of pattern

DATES: Starts May 2, 23, June 6, 20, July 18, August 1st - You will only need 2 sessions - you must register in advance

TIME: 2:30-4:00 pm

FABULOUS COLORS

2010-03-31T18:55:00.000-04:00

A new yarn from Berroco - "Weekend" in over 14 colors, 205 yards and 4 stitches to the inch. This cotton blend is a must have for crocheters as well as those of you that knit - Berroco has created many simple styles. I recommend Weekend for the Stitch Therapy summer knit-along - drop in for help on this delicate leaf pattern and you can take a knitting circle to learn the Mattress Stitch to sew the side seams. Pattern is sized from 32" - 42" bust measurement.

Check website for updated class schedule - also remember our new location on 5th Avenue in Park Slope.

Advance Your Skills with Japanese Knitting Technique

2010-03-21T18:25:00.000-04:00

Date: April 18 & 25th 2:30 - 4:30pm
Price: $75.00 plus $10.00 Instruction fee

This is an opportunity for you to embellish your knitting projects with a new level of finishing using different cast-ons and bind-offs.

In this workshop you will learn:

the five cast-ons pictured
a circular lace cast-on
double ribbed bind-off using a tapestry needle
double knitting slip stitch ribbing for ribbed borders
basic Japanese chart reading to swatch 3 lace stitch patterns

Materials:

1 Hank of Ultra alpaca to knit a beret using a double knitting slip stitch technique
16" circular in size 7 or 8 US
3 -4 different weight yarns (approx. 100 yards each) and the appropriate knitting needles for each yarn. These yarns will be used for practicing cast-ons. If you can not find these yarns in your stash I recommend Karabella Aurora 8, Bulky, Schulana Merino-cotton 135, Debbie Bliss Fez.
A lace weight yarn (approx. 100 yards) and double pointed needles in the appropriate size. I recommend Naturally Dawn.
Tapestry needle (size of needle should work with yarn) will be used for single and double ribbed bind-off.

EASY AND SWEET SUMMER KNIT

2010-03-15T21:40:00.000-04:00

This summer you can learn how to knit this beautiful leaf pattern and quickly knit this cute cap sleeved top - I recommend Weekend by Berocco a 50/50 cotton/acrylic. Colors arrive at Stitch Therapy the week of March 15th there will be plenty to choose from - to check colors .

Drop in for help to knit the leaf pattern, then sign up for a knitting circle to learn how to sew the top together.

This easy knit can be customized by lengthening the waist or the sleeves. Pattern is sized from bust measurement 32" - 42"

RED HOT

2010-02-04T13:49:00.000-05:00

In celebration of Valentine's Week - All things red in the way of yarn will be 20% off and on top of that all books and pattern booklets will be 25% off. February 8th - 14th, 2010.

The LYS has moved... New location 335 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY bet. 3rd & 4th Street.

HOLIDAY NEWS

2009-12-16T20:34:00.000-05:00

Happy holidays to everyone -- Yes it is true - Stitch Therapy has a new home on 5th Avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn all I can say is "I love it here", we opened on November 1st. Some of you have found the shop and seen the work in progress I am still decorating, last week I hung the mirror and a few rug beaters. For more information go to: http://stitchtherapybrooklyn.com/

This week is the Snowflake Festival, the shops on 5th Avenue will be open until 8pm with special offers - come to the new location 335 5th Avenue between 3rd & 4th Street and take advantage of the Snowflake Festival discount - 15% discount Noro Silk Garden Sock yarn.

Look for a new Hat of the Month and class schedule in January.

Quick Holiday Knits: http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/jejune/jejune.html

Quick Holiday Crochet: http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/phannie/phannie.html

Guest Post — The Bountiful Turkish Yarn Shop

2009-12-10T07:42:00.000-05:00

By Charlotte Bloomberg

On a recent trip, my husband and I traveled to Sinop, Turkey, which is about 650 kilometers from Istanbul. After touring the fortifications of this Black Sea town and the Sinop museum, I turned to our guide and said, "Enough! Are there any yarn shops in Sinop?" With a grin, our guide took us to the shop shown in the pictures and introduced us to this lovely woman who was delighted to show me her yarns. As you can see, the store was packed to the rafters. It's a bit smaller than Maxcine's and loaded with amazing yarns.

This was our last stop in Turkey so my husband and I pooled all of our Turkish lira and I held it in my hands. The shopkeeper immediately understood, counted the lira and began pulling skeins. Soon, there was a small pile of beautiful yarns on the table and, selection complete, I left the shop, liraless, but with a bag of lovely yarns to add to my stash. The created garment will be a wonderful reminder of an afternoon spent in a yarn shop in this quaint little town.

***

Reminder: The Stitch Therapy LYS has moved to 335 5th Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11215, between 3rd and 4th Streets. Please stop by to say hello and see our beautiful new space!

STITCH THERAPY HAS A NEW HOME

2009-10-26T17:54:00.000-04:00

In the five years that Stitch Therapy has been on Lincoln Place I have met quite a few amazing people. Years ago a friend reminded me that my mantra was "all I want to do is knit" and now knitting and crochet have become my full-time work, but it is through you, my talented and creative customers and friends, that I have experienced the joy of our craft.

I take pleasure in supporting you through your projects, and if you don't mind, I share the pride that I hope you experience when your project is complete. Stitch Therapy will continue to be an inspirational haven for you in her new home at 335 5th Avenue between 3rd and 4th street, opening November 1st – continuing to be a part of the fabric of Park Slope Brooklyn.

This is a move to a future that offers more classes like "Men's Night Out" "Fingerless gloves and Mittens", "Beginner Circle for new Parents-that means you can bring your new baby", "Weekend Kid Camps", "Mystery Squares", a backyard, and more events like the recent book reading. 335 5th Avenue is now the home of Brooklyn Mercantile a wonderful fabric and home shop owned by Tamara Plummer - both shops will now share this address - two shops under one roof!

This change for Stitch Therapy is a good thing! We will be open seven days a week and still be in Park Slope. Did I mention the backyard? The spring will allow for outdoor classes and entertainment. Just as the Lincoln Place spot evolved into the space that it was (if you could see it at this moment you would not recognize it) so will 5th Avenue. I have spent quite a bit of time at the shop and what I love the most is the way the sun floods in through the front window.

This is Phase 3 for Stitch Therapy, Phase 2 was the online shop, I expect this part to be filled with fun and creativity and I hope that you will continue to be a part of it. Check out the new hours on the website and the schedule for the additional classes.

NYC Yarn Crawl - Reading, Trunk Show & Art Exhibit

2009-09-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

Click to Download full-size poster PDF

Just a reminder about our fantastic reading and trunk show on Saturday, October 10th at 4pm! Take a moment to pop over to the beautiful website for author, Beth Hahn's Miss Flit.

Mark your calendars for NYC's very first Yarn Crawl

2009-09-11T10:29:00.000-04:00

featuring 13 shops and all kinds of carrying on, will be happening over the Columbus Day holiday weekend, October 9-12, 2009.

For details, go to www.nycyarncrawl.com

Join author Beth Hahn at Stitch Therapy during the yarn crawl, as we celebrate the first issue of The Adventures of Miss Flitt, , an Illustrated 19th C. Tale with Knitting Patterns, with a reading and a trunk and art show on Saturday, October 10th, 2009, at 4:00. Beth will also have some limited edition books to sign and sell.

Hope to see you here!

Sophie Digard: Pretty in Paris

2009-08-18T08:58:00.000-04:00

Clothing as a form of art is often mocked by those who seldom see the creativity, skill and expression that are often found within design. The appreciation of apparel on a serious level is sometimes confused with vanity, arrogance and almost always pretence, yet it could be argued that the beautiful crochet creations of Sophie Digard show, to the unfamiliar eye, the potential of regarding fashion as an art form.

The French designer's hand-crafted designs come in an array of shapes and forms, from scarves to necklaces, bags to berets – just about everything you could wish for is covered. Rich in earthly shades and complimentary tones, her use of colour is inspirational; creating a mood that is reminiscent of the English countryside – a peaceful elegance.

In particular her scarves are to be adored. The spring connotations that arise when studying a Sophie Digard scarf are so vivid that only memories of bright summer days enter your thoughts. Most are comprised of tiny 'fleurs' and crochet circles stitched together, creating a classic vintage look as well as an artistic master piece. So detailed, so innovative and yet so at ease, Digard's beauties are faultless. Using fine wool, linen, or a simple sewing thread the Parisian's crocheted idiosyncratic pieces are garments to be treasured for years to come.

It's the final days of summer and the air conditioning is on!

2009-08-08T20:09:00.000-04:00

The first yarn for the fall season has arrived - I love it. Schulana Merino Cotton 135 - 149 yards of 53% cotton 47% wool - 5.25 - 6 stitches to the inch - 17 rich colors - 12 colors are in 5 more to arrive next week.

Starting today Yarn Sale -

Summer yarns 15% off - cotton, bamboo, soybean, and linen blends
Noro Silk Garden Sock - 20% off
Trekking Hand Art Sock - 20% off
Ella Rae Lace Merino - 15% off
Berroco yarns 15% off
Debbie Bliss yarns - 15% off
GGH Lara 50% off
All books and pattern books 20% off
Back issues $2.00 each
Clearance 25% off
Free patterns books

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

2009-06-26T23:10:00.000-04:00

With all the amazing fibers and colors available in the yarn world today the opportunity for creating your own cloth offers a wealth of freedom for expression. I knit these hats and swatches about six years ago when I was working in another yarn shop that offered a great variety so I had the chance to experiment with fibers and stitches.

The blue, white and red hat are a single ply -- practically roving -- and the multicolored swatch uses remnants of a light blue yarn for weaving, and hand dyed merino wool. Playing with my Harmony Guide, I picked a two color cable with the idea to knit ear flaps for a hat, add stitches for the back of the hat, and keep the two color cable going.

Well, they do somewhat resemble mutton chops, and the chevron stitch in the red and blue are a bit subtle, but this hat was a hit on the runway last year at the Brooklyn Conservatory where my friend Raphael used it in a fashion show. In muscles and swim trunks the model walked the runway with confidence and my hat covered the beautiful locks of an Adonis. This hat is one of a kind and what initially looked like a odd pairing of yarn worked in the end. Trying something out of the norm can create a fresh new twist on a classic stitch.

Summer classes for kids

2009-06-12T15:50:00.000-04:00

Stitch Therapy is thrilled to announce a new series of summer classes for children at the Brooklyn shop!
Summer Camp: Knit
Want to learn how to knit? Then this is the class for you! In one week children will learn long-tail cast-on, continental knit stitch, bind-off, continental purl stitch, and knit/purl rib stitch. During the four day camp you'll Knit a pair of fingerless gloves or a hat, or for those of you who already know the basics of knitting - knit a shrug. Beginner's learn the foundation of knitting. Materials cost approximately $40.00 and must be purchased at Stitch Therapy.

Teacher - Kim Davis
Date: June 23,24, 25, 26, 2009 - Fingerless Gloves
July 14, 15, 16, 17, 2009 - Hats
July 28, 29, 30, 31, 2009 - Shrugs
Time: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Cost: $300.00
Prerequisites: Min. age 10 yrs old

Summer Camp: Crochet
Children will learn to crochet in a fun and encouraging environment during this four day camp. They'll learn to read stitch instructions and crochet their own hats using the basic chain, single crochet and double crochet stitches. Materials cost approximately $30.00 for beginners and must be purchased at Stitch Therapy.
Teacher - Kim Davis
Date: July 21, 22, 23, 24, 2009
August 4, 5, 6, 7, 2009
Time: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Cost: $300.00
Prerequisites: Min. age 10 yrs old

Summer Camp: Finger Knitting for Parent and Child
Knitting is a wonderful way to strengthen dexterity and spatial relationship recognition, as well as enhance basic math skills. Children love the feeling of success when they can create something with their own hands. Beginner sessions will learn to use their hands and fingers to knit rectangles. Advanced sessions will knit a doll blanket.

Teacher - Morgan Hultman
Date: (choose one session at a time)
Beginner
June 13
June 14
June 27
June 28
July 11
July 12
Advanced
July 25
July 26
Time: 10:30 am - 12 pm
Cost: $50.00

Prerequisites: Your child must be at least 5 yrs old, be able to count to 5 and know right and left. Materials included for beginner sessions.

Stop in or call the shop to sign up!

NEW PATTERN BOOKLETS

2009-06-03T13:19:00.000-04:00

Of all the patterns that arrive in yesterdays mail these three booklets stand out the most - the first is filled with charming neckdown knit sweaters in a heirloom leaf pattern for babies that includes booties and a blanket. The leaf pattern is just one of a few stitch patterns.

The last two are spanish language booklets for knit and crochet. The first is a book of knit blankets and the latter is a booklet of 63 stitch patterns - affter sampling all 63 stitches the squares can be turned into a blanket.

BAG SALE 25% OFF!

2009-05-21T21:18:00.000-04:00

The Belle Bag

The lovely people at Stitch Therapy are continuously thinking about your needs. These hard-working fellows have realised that tiny needles, loose threads and all the wonderful pieces of haberdashery that you’ve been collecting can easily be misplaced causing bouts of heartache and anger among you Knitters and crocheters.

The answer to all your problems? The Belle bag. A cute little bag, in denim or adorned with flowers, to hold all your precious bits in. This exclusive bag, designed and made by Rapheal Huggins, could even double up as a bag to use when out and about. Worthwhile and easy to maintain, the Belle bag is well suited to all your needs.

At $40.00 these limited edition bags are going to sell out fast! You'd better hurry if you want the ones embellished with Rhinestone...

Also, the Knitting Messenger Bag with all the compartments - Great for the summer! Knitting Needle cases are also on-sale.

Additional Classes Added

2009-05-14T20:33:00.000-04:00

Technocolr Entrelac Wrap
Additional Dates: Saturday: May 23, June 6, 20, July 11, 2009 - 2:00 - 4:00pm.

Knit in the Round on 2 Circular Knitting Needles
New Date: September 30th 6:30 - 8:00 pm

- See class schedule at http://www.stitchtherapybrooklyn.com/

Save The Date

2009-05-08T13:22:00.000-04:00

Event: World Wide Knit in Public Day

What: Jam Session

Host: Grace Shanahan

Start Time: Saturday, June 13 at 10:00am

End Time: Saturday, June 13 at 1:00pm

Where: The steps of the main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library

Hot Off The Presses

2009-04-28T19:42:00.000-04:00

The new summer issues have arrived - -Linked!

Yarn Theory: Knitting, Crochet, Math and Science

2009-04-21T19:51:00.000-04:00

April 25 - May 17

150 First Avenue,
(enter on 9th Street bet. 1st Avenue and Avenue A)
T: 212-228-4249

ps122gallery.org

Victorian Lace In Hardcover

2009-04-14T21:25:00.000-04:00

I just received three hardcover copies of Victorian Lace from my distributor - Last year the word was they would only be available in softcover - If you are a lace knitter it is worth the space on your coffee table

The summer 2009 issue is in!

2009-04-08T17:55:00.000-04:00

Leg Warmers, Gloves, Mittens, Socks, Sweater: Knit in the Round on 2 Circular Needles

2009-04-05T20:13:00.000-04:00

Using two circular knitting needles

learn to knit in the round

- - in one lesson

Date: September 30, 2009
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Class Project: Leg Warmers
Materials : Oat Couture: Leg Warmers - choose from 3 styles, 3 sizes and 3 weights of yarn

Where: Stitch Therapy, 176 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn, 718-398-2020
Price: $35.00

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Greatest benefits of circular knitting:

Circular needles fit far more comfortably in the palms of your hands so you‘re not constantly fiddling with double pointed needles that slip and slide through your stitches.

Circular needles are less unwieldy to use than DPNS - stitches rest safely on the cable of the circular needle.

Don’t have to worry about losing a needle – I find the DPNS have a tendency to slide out.

With two circulars you can knit a project of pretty much any size you don't have to worry about stitches dropping off the end of the DPN.

Two circulars make a project very easy to carry along with you anywhere, and easier to knit in any situation--even while standing on the subway.

Circulars allow you to move the bulk of the knitting closer to your lap, making it easier to balance. With a heavier weight yarn, this can make it a much more comfortable project.

Crocheted Hat of the Month

2009-03-18T16:19:00.000-04:00

The first crochet Hat of the Month is fashioned after an African wedding hat - and is the first of many crocheted hats to come from Stitch Therapy. I learned to crochet in shop class at Nathanial Horthorne JHS 74 in Bayside, Queens when I was in the sixth grade. This was about two years before they allowed girls to take wood shop and the boys had to learn how to cook and sew.

This hat is an any gauge any yarn hat - I have given the formula to this hat to many crocheters over the past four years, and have added a few stitch embellishments to make it entertaining. This pattern is in single crochet, but it can also be made with half double or double crochet stitching. Download the pattern in the sidebar.

THE BARTER SYSTEM

2009-03-11T23:26:00.000-04:00

I have always said that "people buy your expertise" so in an effort to endure the economic condition of 2009 I have entered into barter arrangements and lent out my hands for services rendered.

In all I have committed to custom knit four or five items: one pair of purple tweed cashmere cable knit fingerless gloves; one tan alpaca lace beret; one aubergene alpaca lace shrug with a slite belle sleeve; a luxurious pair of long southwestern colored fingerless gloves made from alpaca, merino and silk; cable knit sleeves in Joker purple and green; and possibly one pair of socks.

The other day I started my third item "the lizzy" -- a spring/fall staple at the shop that has evolved into a stylish knit since its incarnation three summers ago - the neckdown shrug knit in the old faggoted lace rib is an effortless four row repeat and easily doubles as a scarf on a cool day.

I'm doing the knitting and in exchange received: a suitcase full of yarn from abroad; professional financial services; design and editing services; a Super Bowl poem, and time. The barter system in lieu of cash makes the exchange a priceless value between friends.

Fashioning Felt

2009-02-15T20:53:00.000-05:00

On view March 6–September 7, 2009 - COOPER HEWITT Museum/NYC

This exhibition will explore the varied new uses of felt—an ancient material, believed to be one of the earliest techniques for making textiles. Made by matting together wool fibers with humidity and friction, felting requires little technological expertise and is an extremely versatile material. The exhibition will begin with historic examples of felts, showcase innovations in handmade felts, and feature contemporary uses of industrial felt in a range of fields, including product design, fashion, architecture, and home furnishings. http://www.cooperhewitt.org/EXHIBITIONS/Fashioning-Felt/

Calling All Knitters - Crocheters too!!!!

2009-02-15T20:37:00.000-05:00

Do you spend hours searching for the perfect yarn and patterns to knit something fantastic? Is knitting a “must-have” in your life? Well, Martha Stewart has the perfect show for you! Coming up in March we are dedicating an entire show to knitting!

Whether you love to knit scarves, blankets or sweaters, whether you’re a beginner or experienced knitter, we want you in our studio audience with your favorite knitting project in hand!

If you’re interested in requesting tickets for our knitting show please be sure to tell us about your knitting passion and what project you plan to bring with you…the more details the better! (If this show does not apply to you please do not request it).

Please visit the Martha Stewart website to request tickets.
www.marthastewart.com/get-tickets
Hurry before tickets run out!

Superbowl Poem #3

2009-01-27T15:20:00.000-05:00

2008 was a very fine vintage
Obama made history at home
Phelps at the Olympics

2009 so far a bit less certain

Burress fired his arm

a sure sign the economy is hurtin'

Enter Superbow l XLIII

featuring two teams

no less polar

The winter-hardened Steelers

versus the Cardinals

rewind a minute

to bygone yesteryears

when FDR urged us

to rise above our fears

in 1944 two opponents

joined lockers and played as one

as the country stood united

vs. the fascists to overcome

stitching together what men they could

Card-Pitt lost every game

until the boys finally came home

and they became opponents again

Back to the Future

fast-forward to the present day

past all those Steeler championships

lined up along the way

Not so for Arizona

who have suffered long and hard

whether in Chicago or St. Louis

it was never easy to be a Card

But a change is gonna come

a wise man once did say

through loops and twists and turns

the Cardinals might crochet

A Superbowl Shocker

a bold new look

proving that Larry Fitzgerald

is certifiably off the hook

But Mike Tomlin and his D

have spent a lot of time knitting

Terrible Towels into a Steel Curtain

they hope #11 will be hitting

Whether the Knitters or Crochet-ers

are bound to come out on top

there is only one place in Park Slope

they would both agree to shop

For the quality materials

and knowledge they need to prevail

there's Stitch Therapy: proud sponsor

of the 3rd Annual Superbowl Sale -- by John Lovrich

20% off all yarn and books from 12-5:45 pm.

Brooklyn sidewalk stalker

2009-01-05T15:43:00.001-05:00

The other day I was running errands and I spotted the most chic hat on a young woman rushing up the sidewalk ahead of me. It turned out to be one of my customers - this is not the first time that this has happened. I felt myself picking up the pace, pushing my laundry cart faster and faster in front of me, trying to catch up to her.

She was walking at a good clip -- in a hurry on a Monday night to get home from work, or rushing to get past the Häagen-Dazs shop and it's daily, delicious temptation. At the red light I caught up and tapped her shoulder, "Excuse me, did you make your hat?" She recognized me from the shop and said that yes, she had made the hat.

This hat was so beautiful, the body was knit in a fluffy rich black angora that rolled under at the bottom, creating a french curl of a brim and giving the hat a cloche look. The fluffy angora made most of the hat crown and two other yarns topped off the hat with two wide bands. Above the black was a yellow and green tweed that knit up a bit stiffer than the angora, followed by a tomato red. The crown was shaped in a mirrored decrease squaring the top off.

I am always amazed at what my customers come up with -- this hat was a feast for the eyes! Unfortunately, you'll have to use your imagination because I did not have my camera with me. But then, sometimes life is meant to simply be lived and savored!

I got schooled by a little green beret

2008-11-06T19:47:00.000-05:00

You would think that owning a yarn shop would afford me the time to knit all day, but you would be wrong - the shop keeps me busy so I have to squeeze the knitting in where I can, but every day I find some time to knit, usually after the shop is closed. This summer a little beret named Portia by Louisa Harding caught my eye. I thought it would be a fun project for my customers to make, and that it would challenge their knitting skills.

I didn't love the fact that it was a flat knit but the beauty of the lace drew me in. I thought that with my 40 years of knitting experience this would be a quick, down-and-dirty knit. Wrong again. At first, I was going to knit it in a combination of yarns, and I got through the rib of the hat with no problem using a merino, silk, and cashmere blend with a mohair strand. The fabric had great body and the rib stood up on its own.

Beyond the rib was a row of increases and then it moved on to the lace. I began knitting two stitches together and yarning over in the sequence that was presented in the instructions -- okay, one row of the repeat down. Row two, not so fast - I didn't have enough stitches to complete the last repeat! I must have missed something on the last row. So, one stitch at a time I backed out of row two, reviewing the stitches from the previous row. No problem...or so I thought.

I ripped it out again and saw that row one again ended, but row two not so much. Reviewing row two with the pattern, I backed it out and knit it again. Okay, this time it worked. How that happened is a mystery. After ripping the hat five times I decided to Google to see if any one had completed this sweet little beret, and there they were -- pictures of two completed hats. It was definitely me having the problem, not the pattern.

Did I mention that I had emailed the Louisa Harding website to see if there were errata on Portia? The next day I came in to an email from Louisa Harding herself, letting me know that the pattern was indeed correct, and giving me instructions on how to read the [ ]'s *'s and ( )"s.

Two sentences into the email and here comes my ego. I have been knitting for over 40 years and trust me, I know how to read stitch instructions. The name of the shop is Stitch Therapy - this is where the name stems from -- being comfortable with your knit and purl combinations to execute a stitch pattern and not being afraid to attempt a beautifully challenging garment pattern. So I was ripping the beret out for the seventh time.

Okay - back to Louisa -- her email included a lace chart to use with instructions on how to read the stitch repeat -- and to not repeat the first knit one. Well, my friends, I was rusty, rusty, rusty in the art of translating the legend on a knitting instruction. Thanks, Louisa Harding, for taking the time to explain.

Three berets later (two for friends and one for the shop) I still love this knit and would do it again, now that I have mastered it.