Hi friends,
It has been busy week, but a lot of things have been ticked off the list in my “brain". Not my actual brain (because, right now, I can't seem to remember a thing—do you ever go through those times?), but my "brain", which is is what Koryn calls the day timer that I hand draw at the beginning of each year. I suppose it really is a mind-map! Although I still tend to collect scraps of paper, full of little lists, this planner is the source. I work best in the morning so I try to get up early and get things completed. Emails, buying for the shop, accounting, errands…tick, tick, tick, off the list they go. After a few weeks where I felt like I was just treading water, I'm reminded how much I love this little system, and how much it helps me avoid overwhelm.
Fall is a great time to brush up on some knitting skills; with that in mind, we have added some in-store classes for the rest of fall! For the near future, our in-store class size is only four, so please make sure you secure you spot if you are interested in a class. We have added a Zoom class called “Knitting Gauge, Demystified," too. As every knitter knows, this is essential knowledge!
Oh, and don’t forget—we have expanded out store hours to 10:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Saturday. We so look forward to welcoming you all to the shop this fall!
I hope you all have a great week ahead. Tick a few things off your list, and take some time to relax and enjoy your knitting.
Knit, and be happy,
Ann
Quince & Co. Osprey
Online-Only Sale!
Spun from fluffy wool fleece, Osprey is a cushy, comfy, 3-ply Aran-weight yarn that has a relax twist - giving knits a soft, fluid hand. Resulting fabrics are lofty and light and stitch definitions bloom. Arriving in Quince's extensive color palette.
Pattern ideas: Our favorite project is the Cobbles Cowl by Elizabeth Smith. Just one skein of two colors makes the small cowl and two of each the large. Two Tokyo Hoodie by Carrie Bostick Hoge, Carbreth Cardigan by Kate Davies, Avery by Melissa LaBarre
We will be scaling up the savings each day, as follows –
Thursday - 20% off
Friday - 30% off
Saturday - 40% off
Sunday - 50% off
I will change the amount at about 8:00am (PST) each day, but please be patient with me if I am not right on it!
Sterling Wrap
One of my favorite accessory shapes is a rectangular shawl. You can easily throw it over your shoulders like a stole, or loop it around your neck for an extra thick scarf. I love that it can be dressed up or down, too! Sterling by Evgeniya Dupliy is a shawl full of texture created by a combination of broad stripes in simple stockinette and ribbed stitches, both easy to remember repeats—perfect for beginners and great for advanced knitters looking for a relaxing knit. Cheeky Merino Joy makes this project all the more relaxing with its warm and beautiful drape.
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) 32-inch circular needles
Notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle and scissors Streling Wrap (The kit includes the pattern)
Fireworks Cowl
Marie Greene has created a companion to her Fireworks Sweater with this fun little cowl. She says, “a delightful, rhythmic dance of firework bursts, the Fireworks Cowl has a steady beat of texture that’s perfect when you want maximum bang with minimum focus.”. The great stitch definition of Farmer’s Daughter Juicy DK highlights the fun-to-knit fireworks stitch. Trust me, I knit a lot of them when I knit my sweater!
Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) 16" circular needles with sharp tips
Notions: Stitch markers. tapestry needle and scissors Fireworks Cowl (The kit includes the pattern.)
Mitra Hat Holiday Gift Idea
If you've ever wanted to try LUFT, one of my favorite yarns from Woolfolk, this hat is a great way to sample it. This quick-to-knit unisex hat only takes one skein of this bunny-soft gorgeous yarn! An easy section of 1x1 ribbing is interrupted by a delicate lateral braid that intersects between simple stockinette through the remainder of the hat. I may just need one in every color...
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)16-inch needle and US 10 (6.0 mm ) 16-inch needle and double pointed needle
Notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle and scissors Mitra Hat (The kit includes the pattern.)
Rhapsody Socks
What do you get when you mash up a traditional pair of socks with some cozy leg warmers? These oh-so cute Rhapsody socks! Knit from the toe-up, these fun socks feature an afterthought-heel and ribbed cuffs. You knit the foot of the sock with one strand of sock yarn and add another strand to knit the cuff, creating a fun marled effect. Our kits come with two skeins of Hedgehog sock so you can create away!
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) dpns or 32-inch circular needles for magic loop
Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle and scissors
Sizes: baby (toddler, child S, child M/adult S) (child L/adult M, adult L, adult XL) Rhapsody Socks (The kit includes the pattern.)
Norwegian Fir Cardigan
Holiday Gift Idea
There is just something about wee little knits are simple with a little bit of detail that I love. This seamless little top-down cardigan is worked in squishy garter stitch and features a darling pattern along the raglan, adding just enough interest. Life in the Long Grass DK Twist will create a soft heirloom for the sweet baby in your life.
Needle Size: US 5 (3.75 mm) 32" circular needles and US 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles
Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle, stitch holders, measuring tape, scissors.
Sizes: (0 – 3 months), 3-6 months , 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 2-3 years, 4-5 years, 6-7 years, 8-9 years Norwegian Fir Cardigan (The kit includes the pattern and 1 button.)
Douglas Cardigan
Vintage, comfy and cozy vibes with Andrea Mowry's newest cardigan! The Douglas Cardi is a grandpa-style cardigan complete with stripes, big pockets, and a relaxed fit. Andrea named this pattern after her father who is, "now fondly known as Grandpa Doug to my kiddos, it reminds me of when I spruced up my school uniform with my own grandpa’s golfing cardigan when I was in middle school." The large color range of Rowan Felted Tweed makes it the perfect yarn for this cardi. Koryn has hand selected a few color options but feel free to stop by the shop to create your own!
Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) 32" circular needles and DPNs
Notions: Stitch markers, row counter (recommended), scissors, waste yarn or stitch holders
Finished Sizes: 32.5 (37.25, 41.25, 45.25, 48.5)(53.5, 57.5, 61, 65)” 82.5 (94.5, 105, 115, 123)(136, 146, 155, 165) cm. Recommended ease is -2 to + 3”/-5 to +7.5 cm Douglas Cardigan (The kit includes the pattern.)
New in the shop!
Sea Change Fibers Fjord Tweed - Fjord Tweed is a soft yet rustic Merino/Rambouillet wool with nupps sprinkled about like confetti for the tweedy effect. This climate-beneficial and fully traceable wool is sourced from Great Basin (western US) area ranches and milled in the US. It's then beautifully hand dyed by Sarah Pedersen in her studio in Santa Cruz. Each skein of this yummy worsted tweedy yarn offers 210 yards–perfect for a variety of projects!
In case you missed it: last week's new additions...
Cocoknits Maker's Board - Finally, the tool we have been waiting for! For all of us that favor paper vs digital patterns, Cocoknits has designed the perfect system to hold your chart or knitting pattern and keep track of where you are as you go. The Maker’s Board includes strong magnets to keep small tools, row counters, charts and patterns at hand while you are crafting away. You can put a chart on one surface, a pattern on another and (how handy?) the angle is adjustable. The magnets can hold a variety of other Cocoknits tools like stitch markers, cable needles, tapestry needles and stitch fixers close at hand. Add in the ruler and gauge set for the Maker’s Board (sold separately) and you can keep track of exactly what row you are knitting. Grab some extra magnets for more options. I love good organizational tools and this one takes the cake for me!
TBK Cords - Say goodbye to waste yarn and hello to these hollow cables. How do they work? Just press the open end of the cable on to the tip of your needle and gently slip your stitches to the cable for hold, and vice versa for placing the stitches back on to the needles! Perfect for trying on sleeves or a body when trying on a garment. Each set comes with three cords.
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.
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: 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. Homework: (Make 2) With worsted weight yarn and a size 8 needle, CO 18 sts. Work 12 rows in St st, 12 rows in Rev St st and then 12 rows in St st. Slide all stitches to a stitch holder to be worked later. Cut yarn leaving a long tail. Repeat for second swatch.
(Make 2) With worsted weight yarn and a size 8 needle, CO 18 sts. Work 24 rows in garter st. Slide all stitches to a stitch holder to be worked later. Cut yarn leaving a long tail. Repeat for second swatch.
*Please block all swatches before class.*
Please ensure the homework is completed so you may work along in the class.
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.
Continental Knitting
(In-Store Workshop) Saturday, October 2nd from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
$45.00
Have you always wanted to learn about Continental Knitting or “picking”? It is a more ergonomic way to knit, as the movements are small and more efficient than throwing. Once you learn the knit and purl stitches, you will be able to breeze through seed stitch patterns and ribbing. If you admire colorwork, this class will get you ready to use both hands, making Fair Isle easier to knit! In this class we will learn the continental knit and purl stitches, and move into knit 1 purl 1 ribbing so you can practice your new skills. This class is 2 hours to allow you plenty of time to sit and knit, so you quickly become comfortable with the picking method.
Skill level: This class is suitable for the beginner, who know how to knit and purl, to the advanced.
Supplies: Please bring about 100-120 yards of worsted or DK light colored yarn, the appropriately sized needles, and patience.
Learn to Knit the Love Note Sweater (Zoom)
A 3-part Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, KnitChats
(Please note: You will be knitting the smallest size for the class)
Tuesdays, October 5 and 12th from 11:00am to noon AND October 19th from 11:00 am to 12:30pm
The Love Note sweater by Tin Can Knits is a beautiful piece with a light, lofty look. Join Amy Odin, KnitChats Coach, teacher, and designer as she guides you through all the steps of the project. The sweater is knitted top-down in one piece and works up quickly using one strand of merino held with one strand of mohair. If you’d like to keep it simple, you can substitute any DK weight yarn. The pattern offers two hem lengths but can be customized to any. Together we'll knit the smallest size, so you can easily and efficiently learn all the techniques to work any of the larger sizes after the completion of the class. One of its best features is that it’s sized from infant to women’s 5XL. What a deal!
What you’ll learn:
Session 1 - Work a provisional cast on using a needle and crochet hook. Demos and instructions will be provided so you can knit the lace yoke and raglan shaping through the week.
Session 2 - Separate the body and sleeves and learn how to work German Short Rows for the hemline.
Session 3 - Begin to work the sleeves and pick up stitches from the provisional cast on to complete the neckline. To get that perfect finished product, Amy will also discuss any last details such as alterations to the neckline and blocking.
Skill Level: Confident beginner. Must know how to knit in the round on circular needles and double pointed needles (or other method for small circumferences such as magic loop). Knowledge of basic stitches, including increases/decreases.
Supplies:
- Love Note Sweater pattern – purchase and download from Ravelry
- Yarn required for Size 0-6 months – 200-225 yds each strand fingering or dk weight – see pattern for specifics.
- Needles – Size US 7 and 10 (16” circulars and double pointed needles each size, or needles for magic loop or other method) OR sizes to get gauge.
- Crochet hook for provisional cast on - 3.5-4.5 mm
- Waste yarn – about 2 yards dk weight smooth non fuzzy yarn that contrasts in color with project yarn
- Stitch markers - choose 1 that is different from the others for your Beg of round marker
Pre-work: Work a gauge swatch to determine needle sizes.
Four Ways to Knit in the Round
(In-Store Workshop)
Saturday, October 9th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
$45.00
Knitting in the round got you down? Join Koryn as she discusses the four ways to knit in the round; using double pointed needles, small circumference needles, two circular needles, and magic loop. She will have examples of each technique ready to go so you can get your hands on some knitting and try it for yourself. This is a perfect way to see what is most comfortable to you without committing to an entire project. This class will also include general tips for knitting in the round. Needles and yarn will be provided, just bring your happy selves!
Skill Level: Confident Beginner. Must know how to knit with ease.
Knitting Gauge, Demystified (Zoom)
A Virtual Workshop with Amy Odin, KnitChats
Wednesday, October 20th from 11:00am to noon
$20.00
As knitters, we all want our garments to fit just right, and everything else we knit to have that perfect look! Understanding how to get this by working a gauge swatch, knowing exactly how to use it, is essential. In this one-hour class, you’ll learn why we knit gauge swatches, how to knit them, and how to measure. You’ll also learn how to make adjustments to get those measurements spot-on. In addition, you’ll be given basic formulas to adapt a pattern to a different gauge or even design your own project!
Supplies: A knitted gauge swatch (see pre-work below), a ruler with markings to at least ¼ inch, printed pages that will be emailed prior to class, pen or pencil and a calculator
Pre-work: Knit a swatch in a natural fiber according to the pattern provided prior to class. Hand wash and air dry.
Brioche 102
(In-Store Workshop)
Saturday,October 30th, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$45.00
We have had a number of people ask for a follow up class to our Brioche 101, and here it is! In Brioche 102 will cover increases and directional decreases. Koryn will also demonstrate how to pick up a stitch, tink back and rip out rows. After this class you will be able to take on all of those amazing Brioches shawls and hats you are seeing all over instagram!
Skill Level: You must have taken our Brioche Stitch Workshop (offered on June 1st) or be very familiar with the basic and two-color brioche stitch
Supplies: 30 yards worsted weight yarn in a light color and Size US 8 needle.
Pre-work: Cast on 21 stitches.
Set up row - Sl1 Knitwise, *YF, Sl1, K1*, repeat between the *’s to the end.
Row 1 - Sl1 Knitwise, *K2tog, YF, Sl1* to last 3 stitches , K2tog, K1
Row 2 - Sl1 Knitwise, *YF, Sl1, K2tog* to last 2 stitches, YF, Sl1, K1
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 for about 2”. Do not bind off.
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.
While We Knit...
This week, thanks to the invitation of some kind friends, Mr. Monarch and I enjoyed a Giants game at Oracle Park. Worried that I would offend our friends, I did not bring my knitting into the park. It seemed odd to watch a game without my knitting. For me, baseball and knitting go hand-in-hand. Thought I'd share some fun articles and patterns that bring my two passions together!
Did you know that I knit a scarf based on a Giants baseball season? I love it. The Cracker Jack scarf uses a sport weight yarn and knit it in one of my favorite stitches, the linen stitch. I knit 2 rows per game with each color representing home and away wins and losses. It is a great looking scarf, and I actually wear it to chilly games. If they have a strong October it will be at a game with me!
Hillary Smith Callis designed a cute little sweater modeled after a baseball t-shirt for children 4 and under called Candlestick. You could modify the the colors to celebrate any team!
And someone actually designed a pattern called Fairly Accurate Baseball. I love the title, he was totally honest. It is a pretty realistic knit baseball.
...and here are our suggestions from the last newsletter:
Sheep stories
Fall has me thinking about all things wooly and here are some sheepy snippets!
One of my favorite accounts to follow on Instagram is Catskill Merino. Catskill Merino is a woman-owned small farm in the Hudson Valley of New York. Dominique’s photography is stunning and there is something incredibly soothing in watching a flock walk through a beautiful landscape. Know it is not all lambs and rainbows—she about the reality of being a sheep herder and owning a flock. It is a great insight into her working life.
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.
