Knit, Blog & Be Happy!

While I keep a notions bag in each project bag and in my grab-and-go handy dandy tin, the bulk of my notions lives next to my knitting chair. I keep them all in a Waxed Canvas Work Bag that is always filled to the brim with just what I need.  Three little knickknack bags live in the work bag and are organized with all sorts of goodies.  My yellow notion bag is filled with all sorts of markers and tapestry needles.  I purchased a Cocoknits flight of stitch markers and noted the type of marker on the top of the tube. I also have a small...

It's nearing that time of year again when folks are itching to swap out puffer coats for cardigans.  While we don't tend to have progressive weather changes here on our coast, I enjoy the freshness spring evokes. (I do love a spring cleaning!) We've rounded up five great in-between-season patterns that may welcome spring right into your queues. When there's still a nip in the air or a cool breeze, cowls are the perfect antidote to the temperament of the season. One of our shop favorites has become Andrea Mowry's The Shift Cowl. Engaging from cast-on to bind-off, simple knit, and slip stitches make up the pattern, while the shifting of...

At home, I always have my trusty stocked knickknack bag at the ready (more on that next week), and I usually have a notions bag for larger projects, like shawls and sweaters, that live in their respective project bags. But sometimes, when working on a quick, small project like The Shift, I need a few basic notions at hand. With our restock of Firefly Notes Tins, I have finally created a mini notions tin. What took me so long? I do not know!  I would, from time to time, toss things into an old Altoids tin, but over time, the hinges would give...

After a dreary and chilly winter here on the coast, don't we all deserve a day filled with color and inspiration? On Saturday, March 11th, we will do our best to cure the winter doldrums by hosting a Plucky Knitter Trunk show. It will be a happy day at the shop with yarn, kits, treats, and giveaways. And, if you are far afield, don't worry; we will be hosting the trunk show virtually starting on Sunday the 12th!  Nick and Diana will be here to help you make your selections, and if you are looking for yarn for a particular project, you...

I know I might be preaching to the choir here, but at the shop, we always run into pushback when we tell people a yarn requires hand washing. A number of yarns can be laundered in a machine and come out as good as new. But most yarns require hand washing, and I am here to tell you, it is not that hard. So many people imagine this complex process that takes a lot of tools and setup. But it is simple, trust me. Use a mixing bowl in the kitchen for smaller items like a baby sweater, small cowl, socks, mitts,...