Firstly, I want to thank all of you who sent so many kind comments regarding the loss of my father. For those of you who did not see the post, you can read it on our Instagram. We are all doing as well as one can expect, and trying to remember he would want to be celebrated, not mourned.
While I have not had much time to knit in the last few weeks, this weekend I am going to take time to slow down and have some quiet time with my knitting. My entire family turns to working with their hands when the world around them doesn’t make sense. My mom and my oldest will pick up their knitting project; my sister, a quilter who has moved to sunny Florida, now needlepoints; and my youngest is a painter.
So, I guess my simple wish to all of you is that no matter what life hands you, you find comfort in your craft.
Knit, and be happy,
Ann
Painting Honeycombs
Bee-come the envy of your knitting pals with this absolutely breathtaking shawl! This fun triangular shawl from Stephen West allows you to play with both texture and color. The magic of slip stitches is you only work with one color at a time, so you get a beautiful shawl that looks more intricate than it is difficult to make. We've paired two balls of Freia with Sea Change Fibers Littoral Fingering for kits flaring with color.
Needles: US 4 (is 3.5 mm)
Notions: Stitch markers. tapestry needle and scissors Painting Honeycombs (The kit includes the pattern.)
Change Your Mind Beanie
Joji Locatelli just release her Ready for Fall collection and it is lovely. This week, we are featuring the Change Your Mind Beanie, because don’t we all change our minds from time to time? The beanie features a 1x1 rib which you can continue to knit for the entire hat, or you can “change your mind” and pick up another color and knit a lovely ribbed lace pattern to the top. Finish it off with a Pom Pom created with the two yarns and voila! You have a darling hat for fall.
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) 16-inch circular needles
Notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle and scissors Change Your Mind Beanie (The kit includes the pattern)
Bluewater Cowl
I once read a poll online that asked, stockinette or texture? While I've certainly knitted my fair share of stockinette (I love a good pullover!), I must admit that I LOVE textured patterns. There is just something about the rhythm of the stitches and feel of the fabric. Bluewater Cowl by New Mexican designer Tressa Weidenaar is full of texture, made by simple knits and purls that are worked on the bias, then grafted together seamlessly. We've chosen Hedgehog DK for its crisp stitch definition. This little beauty works up rather quick! Gather your needles, one of our kits and you'll be wrapped in texture before you know it!
Needles: Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) straight or 24" circular needles
Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle, scissors and crochet hook for provisional cast-on Bluewater Cowl (The kit includes the pattern.)
Le Pouf Cardigan
Fancy a fade? Then this cute Le Pouf Cardigan is for you! We couldn't resist putting together kits of this fun cardigan after receiving a bountiful box of squishy Hedgehog Fibres! The color transitioning technique is what makes this simple top-down cardigan just a delight to knit. You start with two strands of color A, drop one add color B, then two strands of B and so on. Slightly flared sleeves adds a fun touch! I especially love the full sleeves. A Le Pouf might be on my needles soon... I can see one of my daughters wanting one for Christmas!
Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) 32" circular needles and DPNs Notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle and scissors
Finished Sizes: XS [S, M, L, XL] [2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL], to fit bust 28-30 [32-34, 36-38, 40-42, 44-46] [48-50, 52- 54, 56-58, 60-62], To be worn with 2’’ of ease Le Pouf Cardigan (The kit includes the pattern.)
miMa
I absolutely loved knitting Isabel Kraemer's Mariechen Cardigan, so this mini version of that fun pattern will be a joy to knit as well! This adorable wee cardi is worked seamlessly from the top down with raglan increases to shape the yoke. The front panels feature a cute textured lace panel down the center. Truly a basic, but oh-so fun cardigan construction with sleeves and buttonhole and neck bands. We have darling kits available using Ewe Ewe's Fluffy Fingering–washable merino that is perfectly soft and snuggly!
Needle Size: US 2 (2.75 mm), US 2 1/2 (3 mm) circular needle and US 3 (3.25 mm) 24” (60 cm) circular needle for body and DPNs
Notions: Stitch markers, scrap yarn or stitch holders, row counter, tapestry needle, scissors.
Finished Sizes 3 mo (6 mo, 12 mo, 18 mo, 2y)(4y, 6y, 8y, 10y)
Finished chest measurements: 20.5 (21.75, 22.5, 23, 23.75)(25.5, 26.75, 29.5, 30.75)“
51 (54.5, 56, 57.5, 59)(64, 67, 74, 77) cm miMa Cardigan (The kit includes the pattern.)
New in the shop!
Rowan Pebble Island - Pebble Island is Rowan's first fully traceable, responsibly farmed yarn. The Falkland Islands "is home to a farming family and several thousand unique Merino sheep who graze freely on the luscious natural vegetation and breathe in the rich sea air. This special location is where the world’s finest pure merino wool is grown, and then carefully sheared by hand before shipping to the UK where it is spun and dyed in a family-owned Yorkshire mill." The palette was designed by Erika Knight and is inspired by the natural beauty of Pebble Island. This exceptional yarn is natural, renewable, biodegradable, breathable, hypoallergenic, resilient and elastic, making it comfortable both to knit with and to wear.
Rowan Felted Tweed Colour - Rowan Felted Tweed Colour has taken all the qualities we love from regular Felted Tweed and added a long and subtle color variation. Inspired by nature’s landscapes, the tweedy hues gradually evolve along the fibers at a gentle pace. While this yarn is lovely to knit on its own, it will create a stunning fair isle effect by simply working with two shades or mixing in a solid Felted Tweed.
ChiaGoo Bamboo Patina Needles - We've finally found some bamboo needles we love! These light colored needles are made from sturdy Moso bamboo and feature the same memory-free cable as their stainless steel needles. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter color when knitting with darker yarns. We have circular, single pointed and double pointed needles in the store and online. The interchangeable needles are in the shop and will be online next week.
In case you missed it: last week's new additions... Freia Shawl Balls: Do you love an ombre? Well, these huge Freia Shawl Balls are for you! 430 yards of a single-ply fingering yarn in luscious, lovely 100% merino. The merino is grown and spun in the United States to Freia's specifications. This yarn will give you exceptional stitch definition with a wonderful loftiness that can be stitched up in a variety of gauges without losing definition or drape.
DMC Diamant Thread - Do you want to add just a hint of holiday elegance to your knitwear? DMC Diamant Thread is just what you need, as it will not change the gauge of your project. Soft to the touch, Diamant is a viscose sheet wrapped with a metallic polyester coating and then covered in a thin layer of silicone. One strand is equal to two strands of embroidery floss and it does not twist or tangle, making it an easy to work with thread. You can use it throughout a cowl, for the edging of a shawl or on the cuffs of a dressy sweater. Keep an eye out for a fun project using this floss in a future newsletter! Oh, by the way, you can use it for hand embroidery, cross stitch and quilting. Each spool is 38.2 yards.
Kits to Keep You Knitting
In case you missed out on these featured favorites,
here is a recap of last week's projects!
Please note these groups are for social knitting. Please keep the conversation light and enjoyable. Knitting help will not be offered at these sessions.
In-Store and Virtual Classes
When you sign up for a class, in-store or virtual, please note any supplies or homework that is listed under the class description. It is your responsibility come to class on time with the listed supplies and, if required, completed homework.
Full payment is needed to reserve your space. For a refund on the class, cancellations must be made 5 days prior to the class. All refunds are given as store credit only. If we cancel the class for any reason, you will receive a full refund. Supplies are not included in the class fee unless noted. No Monarch Rewards Points can be used towards the payment of a class.
In-Store Classes - Classes are limited to 4 students.
Virtual Classes - 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.
Choosing the Best Yarn for Your Project (Zoom)
A Virtual Workshop with Christina Mursa, KnitChats
Wednesday, September 8th from 1:00pm to 2:00pm PST
$20.00
Modern crafters have so many beautiful yarns to choose from; it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the options. Wool, alpaca, cotton, fingering, DK, worsted…what does it all mean? And which one should you choose for your project? In this class, KnitChats coach Christina Mursa talks about the characteristics of different fibers and how to find the ones that will make your project sing. She’ll talk about different yarn weights and provide guidelines for substituting yarn. At the end of the presentation, there will be plenty of time for discussion, so bring all your questions!
Skill Level: All levels are welcome!
No supplies needed.
Brioche 101
(In-Store Workshop)
Saturday, September 11th, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$45.00
We love the Brioche stitch, and you see it everywhere. So many shawls include a Brioche section and there is nothing lovelier that a sweater knit in the fabulous stitch. This stitch technique creates lofty, textured and reversible fabric, which resembles ribbing but with much more depth, and many more possibilities. We will teach the basic Brioche Stitch and the knitting terms that you might come across in a Brioche pattern. Once you have single color Brioche down, build on the skill to include two-color Brioche. Soon you will be knitting a Brioche project of your own!
Skill Level: You should have a firm grasp of the knit and purl stitch and know at least one cast-on and bind-off technique. Supplies: 30 yards easy-to-see yarn in two colors, and circular knitting needles in a size appropriate for your yarn.
Introduction to Short Rows (Zoom)
A 1.5-hour Virtual Workshop with Jessica, Knit Chats
Tuesday, September 14th from 11:00am to 12:30pm
$30.00
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 do, practice some short row techniques, and troubleshoot not only technique, but also method and yarn pairings as well. See you there!
Please come to class on time with the listed supplies and, if required, completed homework.
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.
Finishing Techniques 101
(In-Store Workshop)
Saturday, September 18th, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$45.00
Do you struggle with the techniques needed to properly finish a knitting project? If so, this is the class for you. After this hands-on workshop, you will be able to finish your projects with confidence. We will teach you the mattress switch on both garter and stockinette stitches. We will also learn about the 3 needle bind-off and kitchner stitch. You will pick up stitches on horizontal and vertical edges so you can avoid the dreaded pucker. We will even demonstrate a quick and easy technique to avoid the jog when binding off in the round. Lastly, you will learn to weave in the ends of your yarn for a professional look to your knitting.
Skill Level: You must know how to knit and purl and be a strong beginning knitter, with a few projects behind you. Homework: When you sign up for the class you will be sent the homework via email. Please ensure the homework is completed so you may work along in the class. Supplies: Completed homework, scissors, tapestry needle, 10 yards of the yarn in which the swatches are knit, the needles you knit the swatch in and a double pointed needle in the same size to use for the 3 needle bind off.
Traveling Cables
(In-Store Workshop)
Saturday, September 25th, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$45.00
Have you always loved the look of cable knitting, but are intimidated by the technique? This class is perfect for you! We will break down the process of knitting a cable and take the mystery out of the process. The Traveling Cable Hat is covered in cables, giving you plenty of opportunities to practice your newly acquired skills. So, join us on a quiet Saturday afternoon and learn to cable...who knows, a cable knit sweater may not be far behind!
Skills: You must be an advanced beginner and know how to knit in the round on a circular needle.
Supplies: Traveling Cables Hat kit, US5 and US 6 16" circular needles, US 6 double pointed needles and a cable needle.
Homework:Before taking the class we ask that you come into the store to purchase the kit, cast on, and knit to the first row of cables.
Private Lessons
$20.00 for 30 minutes
$40.00 for 1 hour
Do you have a new skill you would like to learn, or are you confused by a particular part of a pattern? Come into the shop and work one-on-one with us! Call us at 831.647.9276 to set up an appointment.
We can only offer private lessons on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday. There are no private lessons during the hours of knit group.
Not sure what to what to cook or bake for fall? The New York Times Cooking has you covered with their extensive library of Fall Recipes.
Last season, Jenn shared an autumn inspired cocktail recipe featuring apple cider. Yum! I look forward to trying one! Here, she shares her recipe:
Bobbing for bourbon
4 oz apple cider
2 oz bourbon
1 oz cayenne infused lemon juice
splash of orange bitters
sliced apple for garnish
Combine all ingredients (except garnish) into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Gently shake and strain into your favorite glass. Add garnish...sit, sip and be happy!
...and here are our suggestions from the last newsletter:
Color Duets: Kaffe Fassett | Erin Lee Gafill
Last weekend Mr. Monarch and I spent a lovely foggy afternoon at the Monterey Museum of Art. We saw the inspiring exhibit, Color Duets: Kaffe Fassett / Erin Lee Gafill and it was wonderful!
"In a redwood canyon down the Big Sur coast sits a small cabin. Each spring, artist Kaffe Fassett and painter (Kaffe's niece!) Erin Lee Gafill sit side by side at their easels to paint. During these stolen weeks, they share a decade-long visual conversation that began long ago in their family home at Nepenthe."
Monterey Museum of Art
559 Pacific St.
Monterey, CA
through Sunday, October 9th
Open Thursday to Saturday
11:00am to 5:00pm
Adults - $15.00
18 years and under - free
Students and active military with ID - free
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, Patterson Puptography,
Some Kit Favorites and projects of the week found via links and/or Ravelry.
