I hope you all had a nice holiday weekend. Mine was filled with a visit from my oldest daughter, cooking, time at the beach and knitting. I am knitting a sweater I cannot seem to put down. Do you ever have a project like that? Colorful stripes...so different than what I usually knit. Speaking of, we will have kits in the newsletter soon! Maybe very soon at the rate this knit is coming off my needles.
We have a few fun things in the newsletter this week: first off, the Woodbridge Wrap knit with Blue Sky Metalico—a beautiful poncho/shawl piece. Blue Sky will be hosting a Knit-a-Long and we are going to join in the fun. The pattern will be free with purchase and we will be posting updates on social media as we knit the wrap!
We are also carrying Shibui's new Camp Colors. If some of you remember, way back they had a sock yarn in their base lineup. They have rebranded the same great superwash merino under Camp Colors and introduced this fun line. While their patterns are full of fun, multi-color projects, this is also a great yarn for children's sweaters, socks and bright accessories! We will feature some summer-ready projects in the coming weeks.
Lastly, we have a re-stock of the much-loved Sunset Shawl. The others sold out so quickly, so we got our ducks in a row and are making more kits for you! Check out the link below!
Knit, and be happy,
Ann
Tahki Skinny Jeans
Online-Only Sale!
This worsted weight yarn brings the relaxed and casual look of worn denim to your knitwear! A ribbon-y yarn with a true denim-dyed effect. Tahki Skinny Jeans is great for crisp and full-bodied fabrics to create casual tops, wraps and accessories. The Wrapped Garter Stitch Scarf, a favorite in the shop, only takes 3 skeins and we are happy to send you the pattern with purchase of three skeins!
Here are some great project suggestions for Skinny Jeans:
We're in a wrap state of mind over at the shop lately—they're perfect for the season! And the Woodbridge Wrap by Vladimira Ilkovicova is just what we want on our needles right now. Blue Sky Fiber's Metalico blooms with this allover delicate lace pattern. The luscious combination of 50% baby alpaca and 50% silk provides the loveliest drape. Style it by tying for a fitted look or leave side pieces to hang for a casual feature. Check out their accompanying video here!
Want this beauty on your needles, too? Blue Sky is hosting a summer knit-a-long! Order a kit and join us for this fun and relaxing KAL that runs from July 1st to August 31st. We can hardly wait!
Needles: US 4 (3.5mm)
Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle and scissors
Finished Measurements: 1 (2, 3); Neck opening: 15 (17, 19) inches;Total width: 43½ (47¼, 51¼) inches; Length: 18½ (20, 21½) inches Woodbridge Wrap (The kit includes the pattern.)
Ingwer
Add a dash of slipped stitches, eyelets, and nubbly garter stitch! The mix of textures blend perfectly in Ingwer, which is German for “ginger.” It’s an asymmetrical triangle shawl that features a picot bind off, and can be knit up in a generously snuggly size to keep you toasty. Pick your favorite vibrant shade of The Fiber Co. Cumbria Fingering, a slightly heathered yarn with a plush rustic touch and feel.
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) Notions: Tapestry needle and scissors Ingwer (The kit includes the pattern.)
Broderie
When paired with an easy slip stitch pattern, Berroco's Millefiori Light yarn simply shines. Two colors intertwine beautifully as you grow this boast-worthy accessory into an asymmetrical knitted shawl. Fast and fun, Broderie is an effortless work of art. Which color combination will you choose?
Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors and stitch markers Broderie (The kit includes the pattern.)
Color Craze Cowl
Pop some color onto your needles with the Color Craze Cowl! Designed by Matt Akers for Camp Color, this bandana-like piece is a quick and oh-so satisfying knit. Easy stockinette and a garter stitch border is worked flat and then joined in the round, finished with an i-cord bind-off for a piece that seamlessly slips over for easy wear. This fun cowl can be knitted in three of Color Camp's Color Collection: Sweet Tooth (delectable pastels), Rainbow is My Favorite Color (kaleidoscope of cheery brights) or High Fidelity (a groovy combo of bolds and neutrals). Whichever one you choose, this is sure to become your newest favorite accessory!
Needle: US 3 (3.25 mm) 16” circular needle
Notions: Tapestry Needle, 2 Locking Stitch Markers, 4 Stitch Markers Color Craze Cowl (The kit includes the pattern.)
Striped Tee
A quintessential summer staple, this is an easy to wear garment that can be paired with anything from jeans to flowing skirts. Knit with top-down in the round construction with an addictive stripe sequence, this short sleeve top literally flies off the needles. Shibui's Echo yarn makes it all the more worthwhile, too. Swing into summer with this cute striped top!
Needles: US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle, 16” / 40 cm and 32” / 80 cm long
and a set of US 5 (3.75mm) Double Pointed Needles
Notions: Stitch marker, stitch holders, tapestry needle
Finished chest circumference (inches): 33½ (36¼, 39¼, 42, 45, 48, 51)” / 85 (92, 100, 107, 115, 122, 130 cm. To fit with approx. 2-4” / 5-10 cm positive ease Striped Tee (The kit includes the pattern.)
Sunset Shawl Restock
If you've missed out on this beautiful shawl, we have more available! Love the Sunset Slouch by Meghan Babin? Then you'll love this cheery shawl, too! Featuring the same rainbow gradient color set, this squishy garter stitch shawl includes eight mini skeins along with 2 full skeins of Hudson + West Co.'s Weld. Wrap yourself in a rainbow!
Order a kit today! This is a pre-order. The kit will ship about the 15th of June, if not before!
New in the shop!
Camp Colors - If you follow us on social media, you may have noticed last week that we played along with the launch of Shibui's new sister line, Camp Colors Yarns! Their introductory yarn is a soft fingering-weight 100% merino wool (do you remember Shibui Sock?) that has been dyed in three color collections: High Fidelity, Rainbow is My Favorite Color and Sweet Tooth. Each collection features a fun designer collab, too! Read all about this fantastic new brand over on our blog!
New Ribbon Street - Our favorite zippered cotton pouches are restocked! Locally made in Santa Cruz, these lovely project bags will happily hold and transport your knitting projects. The cute fabrics on the outside correspond with a complimentary fabric liner. Each bag is finished and topped off with a sturdy removable Japanese woven ribbon key hook wristlet, which allows you to wear it while you knit. Available in store only. If you'd like to order, send us an email at hello@monarchknitting.com
In case you missed it: last week's new additions...
Knit and be Happy Market Bag - Seriously, this bag just makes me, well, happy! Add my knitting to it, along with my notions bag, pattern, and daily accoutrement...gosh, for its size, this bag can hold a ton! Made out of an outer jute fiber with a water resistant lining and soft leather handles for easy carrying, I've had this beauty for over two years now and it has held up beautifully. I love that it goes with just about anything, too...
Kits to Keep You Knitting
In case you missed out on these featured favorites,
here is a recap of last week's projects!
Monarch Knitting's Zoom classes will be limited in number, as determined by the instructor. We will have a moderator in the class to ask the instructor any questions and attend to any technical questions. All attendees will be muted during the teaching portion, so the instructor is free to carry out their class outline. Don't worry, you can ask your questions via chat! We will also open the floor from time to time for you ask your questions directly.
We suggest that you find a good Internet connection, so the class video does not buffer too much. Zoom suggests you have at least 2 MPBS upload and download speed from your internet service provider. Note: We will not be providing refunds for clients with connectivity issues.
Blocking 101
A Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, KnitChats
Monday, June 7th from 11:00 AM to noon
$20.00
So often I hear from knitters that they are reluctant to block their hand-knits. They don’t understand why it’s necessary, or even how to do it. Totally understandable! Join me, Amy Odin, with KnitChats and get ready to take your knitting to a whole new level. In this class you’ll get in-depth information that will enable you to block confidently, so your pieces will look perfectly finished. We’ll talk about why it’s important to block your projects and the pros and cons of various techniques. We’ll also discuss what methods are best for different fibers. I’ll review all the tools you need, many of which are already in your home! You’ll learn how to block all kinds of projects from the smallest accessories to the largest of blankets. I’ll finish up the class by demonstrating how to block a lace square.
Introduction to Intarsia
A Virtual Workshop with Josie Flores, KnitChats
Sold Out - Friday, June 11th, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Tuesday June 29th, from 11:00am to 12:30 pm
$30.00
Expand your color-work skills and learn the basics of flat Intarsia knitting! We’ll cover the concept of incorporating sections of color within knitted fabric, how to transition between colors and ways to manage your yarn. The class practice sample will be the Cityscape template from MDK Field Guide #16: Painterly, which we will cast on together. We’ll spend our time knitting a good-sized sample and by the end of our workshop, you’ll be confident with the basic technique. You may continue to knit the full scarf or simply be inspired to make other lovely projects in the book!
Skills: Must know how to cast on, knit, purl and bind off
Materials for class sample: Cityscape Scarf pattern, MDK Field Guide #16: Painterly Smooth, DK weight yarn in 4 or more contrasting colors (Rowan Felted Tweed) *Note: You may also review the pattern on p. 30/34 for the full color range pictured in the scarf. Size US 5 needle (or appropriate size for your gauge), 12” or longer straight or 24” circular *Gauge: 24 sts and 32 rows = 4” in stockinette 2 stitch markers
Pre-work: Review the Cityscape Scarf color diagram on page 34 and plan your color placement. With your choice of color for “1”, cast on 52 sts and leave on your needles.
Mosaic Knitting - Colorwork Made Easy
A Virtual Workshop with Christina, KnitChats
Monday, June 14th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Knitting legend Barbara Walker created this beautiful style of colorwork in the 1960’s. Mosaic knitting creates a beautiful fabric that is great for snuggly blankets, squishy sweaters and other cozy items. The technique, which uses slipped stitches, looks complicated but it is so easy to learn. It is an ideal starting point for beginners who would like to try colorwork and working with charts. Seasoned stitchers will also marvel at the elegance and simplicity of mosaic knitting. In this class, we’ll work together to create two swatches in both stockinette and garter stitch using a chart from her innovative book Mosaic Knitting.
Skills required: Knowledge of knit and purl stitch
Supplies: Two (2) charts for Mosaic #8 (provided in class materials), Two (2) contrasting-color worsted yarns (MC and CC) approx. 120 yards each. (Brooklyn Tweed Shelter), Straight or circular knitting needles in a size you like for knitting worsted weight yarn flat – US 6, US 7 or US 8, Six stitch markers: two of one type, 3 of another, another unique marker to show the RS of the work, Preferred method to count rows – row counter, pencil and paper etc., Ruler or tape measure, Piece of paper or card stock to cover the top part of the chart while you are working
Pre-work: We will be making two(2) swatches in this class. Cast-on 35 stitches with one color (MC) two times; one cast-on for each swatch, each cast-on on a separate needle. If you only have one set of needles in your desired size, you can either use another needle one size up or down or put one cast-on on a stitch holder. Long-tail cast on is ideal, but you may use your preferred method. Purl one row. Gauge is not essential for this project. Please have this ready at the beginning of class.
Crosswise Cadence Glove Workshop
A 2-part Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, KnitChats Sold Out - Tuesday, June 15th, 11:00 AM to 12:30 pm AND Tuesday, June 22nd, 11:00 AM - noon
Wednesday, July 7th, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM AND Wednesday, July 14th, 11:00 AM - noon
$45.00
Learn to knit the Crosswise Cadence Gloves from the designer herself! Join Amy Odin, KnitChats Coach, teacher and designer as she guides you through this project in two separate sessions, one week apart. The gloves are worked in the round and feature a delightful and unusual diagonal slip stitch pattern. For the first session, Amy will help you master the eight-row repeat that creates the slip stitches. She will explain and demonstrate how to work through the thumb gusset in preparation for the second session. The following week you will complete the thumb and resume the slip stitch pattern to finish the glove.
Skills required:
Must be able to knit in the round using double pointed needles (DPNs) or other preferred method *
*Note that class demonstrations will be worked using DPNs. Students are responsible for making pattern adjustments if Magic loop method or using two 16” needles are used
Supplies:
200-240 yds (depending on size – see pattern) fingering weight yarn in a variegated or solid color. If using a variegated yarn, be sure there are no extreme contrasts of light and dark. This will hide the slip stitch pattern. - We will have kits including the yarn and pattern on next week's newsletter.
Size US 2 DPNs or size to get gauge (28 sts and 44 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette St after blocking)
Waste yarn for holding live stitches
“Crosswise Cadence Gloves” Pattern available for purchase on Ravelry
Pre-work:
Complete a gauge swatch to determine correct needle size.
Cast on for the project in your preferred glove size, work the twisted rib cuff (22 rnds), then knit one rnd.
Learn to Knit Continental Style A Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, Knit Chats
Sold Out - Wednesday, June 16th from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Friday, July 2nd, from 11:00am to 12:30pm $30.00
Have you always wanted to knit faster? Does knitting British Style cause you pain or strain? Join Amy Odin, KnitChats Coach, teacher and independent designer, as she teaches you how to knit Contintental Style (sometimes referred to as “picking”). This technique offers you a different way to knit that feeds your yarn from your left hand, resulting in smaller, faster motions. This style is loved by those that are both right and left handed! You’ll learn how to work the knit and purl stitch, alternate knit and purl stitches in a row, and understand how to approach special stitches such as increases and decreases.
Skills required: Must have basic knitting skills.
Supplies: One Skein of worsted weight solid light colored yarn Size 7 or 8 straight, or 24” circular knitting needles
Pre-work: Cast on 30 stitches and work in garter stitch (knit every row) for approximately two inches. Keep on the needles – do not bind off.
Introduction to Stranded/Fair Isle Knitting
A two-part Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, KnitChats
Wednesdays, June 23rd and 30th from 11:00 AM to Noon
Have you wanted to master Stranded/Fair Isle Knitting? This is the introduction that will set you on your way! Knit the Flor Vieja Cowl, a simple yet beautiful repeating design that will give you a basic understanding of the technique. Follow along with teacher, designer and KnitChats Coach Amy Odin in this two-part class as she demonstrates how to manage and knit two colors of yarn across one row. She will also teach how to read a simple colorwork chart that accompanies the pattern. Also included are detailed instructions and demonstrations for catching your floats with both main and contrasting colors.
Skills required: Must know how to cast on, join in the round, and knit.
Supplies: Free pattern – Flor Vieja Cowl by Leslie Roth (download from Ravelry), 400 yards total worsted weight yarn (200 for color A, 200 for color B), Size 5 US (24” circular needle), Size 7 US (24” circular needle) or size needed to get gauge (5 sts – 1 inch), 1 stitch marker
Pre-work: With color A, and smaller needles; cast on 128 sts; Place marker and join in the round; Work 8 rounds of 2x2 rib (k2, p2, k2, p2…); Change to larger needles and knit one round
Introduction to Short Rows
A Virtual Workshop with Jessica, Knit Chats
Thursday, June 24th from 11:00am to 12:30pm
What are they? Why are they used? How are they done? What are these unsightly holes where I have turned? Let’s face it: we’ve all posed at least one of these questions when we learned of short rows. Join KnitChats instructor, Jessica, for a dive into short rows! Together, you’ll define short rows, see what magic they have, practice some short row techniques, and troubleshoot not only technique, but also method and yarn pairings as well. See you there!
Supplies: DK or Worsted weight yarn, US 7 or US 8 needles as appropriate for the yarn, and 6 locking stitch markers.
Pre-work: Make three, small swatches:
CO 22
Rows 1-3: Knit
Row 4: K2, P to last 2 sts, K2
Row 5: Knit
Row 6: K2, P to last 2 sts, K2
Row 7: K19 (the last 3 sts are not worked prior to class)
* Move all stitches to a spare needle or keep on working needle. I am using a set of 5 double pointed needles to hold my swatches.
Introduction to Seaming
A Virtual Workshop with Christina Mursa, KnitChats
Friday June 25th from 11:00am to noon
Class description: Good seaming skills make all the difference in achieving a polished and professional look to your handknits. In this 1-hour workshop, we’ll cover two basic seaming methods: Mattress Stitch and Kitchener Stitch. You’ll learn how these techniques are applied to stockinette and garter fabric, including horizontal, vertical and curved edges. Join us and learn to seam with confidence!
Starting a new sweater project, part 2...
Like I said in the note, I am truly enjoying this sweater project! As promised, here are a few more tips to make your sweater knitting even more enjoyable:
I use interchangable needles when I knit, which allows me to use a great trick that makes knitting in the round a bit smoother. The needle in my right hand, the needle I am knitting onto, is the needle I need for my gauge, in this case a US 5. The needle I knit off, the needle in my left hand, is a US 2. Why, you may ask? The left hand needle is just holding the stitches but, when knitting in the round, you are sizing the stitches with the right hand needle. If you left hand needle is smaller, they slip over the join a bit more easily. Fringe Associate has a little article about it here. Please note: this only works when knitting in the round. If you have some short rows to work, both needles must be the same size for that portion of the pattern.
When I want to try on my top-down sweater, I knit half of the stitches onto another circular needle (US 5 for this sweater). As long as each cord is half of the circumference of the sweater you can carefully try it on. Then you can continue to knit in the round and you stitches will all be on one needle again. FYI, sometimes I do give it a quick steam, but I let it dry completely before trying it on.
My sweater has a lot of stripes so I am weaving in my ends as I go. I don't like to leave that chore to the end.
...and here are our suggestions from the last newsletter:
Starting a new sweater project...
This weekend I casted on a sweater and it got me thinking about what I do when I cast on a new project. If you are new to knitting, or sweater knitting, these tips may help you.
Decide what size you want to knit. Yes, this is obvious but some people find this decision difficult.
Does the pattern list true bust or finished measurements? Read the sizing information and then compare that to the schematic or finished measurements. (A short bit about schematic from Hudson + West.)
Does the designer suggested a certain amount of ease? (Hudson + West has a blog post about ease here.)
Take a look at the other projects on Ravelry. Sometime the photos and notes can help you understand the fit.
Measure one of your own garments that fits you well and use it to compare to the schematic or finished measurements.
Read through the pattern and highlight all of the instructions that pertain to your size. This is also a great chance to see if there are any techniques used in the pattern that you might need to review.
Swatch
Make sure your swatch is big enough. I like a swatch about 6 x 6 - inches in size.
Count your stitch and row gauge before you block it and make a note of it. This count will allow you to re-check your gauge and know that you are on the right track.
Block your swatch, let it dry completely and then measure the stitch and row gauge. The gauge that is noted in the pattern instructions is always a blocked gauge, unless otherwise noted.
Swatching 101 - Brooklyn Tweed created a blog post on gauge swatching. (FYI - The Knitting Resources section of their website is excellent.)
Collect all of the needles, notions and yarn you need for a project and keep it together. I don't like to hunt down a tape measure when I need one. I keep everything at hand in my bag or knitting basket.
In-Store, Online, and Phone Shopping Available!
Here's how you can shop with us:
In-Store Shopping - We will be open for in-store shopping Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We will be closed on Sunday. Please note this is for shopping only - we will not be offering knitting/crochet help or private lessons at this time. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate these new shop policies. Please visit our website to learn more.
Online Shop - if something is out of stock, please call us, as we are still placing orders and many vendors will ship directly to you!
Phone Orders - please call 831-647-9276 during our business hours, 10:00am to 5:30pm., Monday to Saturday.
Shipping is FREE for purchases over $95.00 and just $7.95 for orders under $95.00. For locals, we offer curbside pick up Monday to Saturday.
Use the comment box to let us know if you would like your yarn wound, or if the items are a gift for a friend--we're happy to include a note.
Join Us on Zoom!
Gather your knitting, a favorite beverage, and join us for a virtual knitting group!
It really is a great way to knit together. If you're joining us (we hope you will!), plan to introduce yourself, tell us where you are, and what you are knitting or crocheting.
Staying connected to our friends is so important at this time, so we will be holding our knitting groups online.
Tuesdays from 10:30 AM to noon
Wednesdays from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Here is how you join in!
To access the virtual knitting group you will need to download Zoom on your phone, computer or tablet. https://zoom.us/signup
If you see a pop-up that says "to hear others please join audio, select the "call using internet audio" option.
You will be connected to the group video call where we can all see and hear everyone. If you have a lot of background noise at home, please mute your microphone and click on when you want to chat!
Please note, this is not a time to get knitting instruction or help. Also, please keep the conversation light and cheerful. This should be a time to find joy in your craft!
As always, watch our social media for updates and reminders.
Monarch Knitting In-Store Shopping Policies
Please be patient with our staff and other customers. We are all doing our best, and respect for one another is extremely important at this time.
You are required to wear a face covering when you enter the shop.
Please maintain 6 feet of distance between other customers in the shop and our staff members.
If interested in a yarn, you are allowed to touch the yarn when browsing.
We are happy to wind your yarn, but may only be able to wind one skein for you at the time of purchase, as we want to serve all of our customers in a timely manner. You can return the next day to pick up the rest of your order.
When making a purchase, please stand on the “X” and wait until we have entered your items. At that point we will step back from the register and let you complete your transaction on the pin pad. Please step back to the “X” and we will gather your receipt and items in a bag.
No sitting at the knitting table.
Due to social distancing guidelines, we cannot offer to fix your knitting or teach private lessons. If you are stuck on a project, we can help you select something new to work on.
Please be aware of other people waiting behind you.
Monarch Knitting offers a friendly, warm, welcoming and organized store where all makers can come and enjoy the opportunity to pursue their projects with support from a staff that is experienced, passionate and professional.
Photo Credits: Monarch Knitting, The Knit Side, Patterson Puptography, Some Kit Favorites found via links and/or Ravelry.
