some great new products

One of the most exciting things about being the owner of The Purple Sock ( well, besides opening all the boxes of fabulous yarns when they arrive!), is finding new and different items for the shop.

I particularly love finding small local business, run by women, who share a passion for creating lovely things...and this brings me to the two new businesses that I want to showcase today....

Donna Light, owner of Cedar Point Soaps of Waubaushene, and I, go back a long way....to the days when I was a soap-maker as well, and we would run into each other at local craft fairs and Farmer's Markets. But since opening The Purple Sock, my soap making days are no more, so I am thrilled to now carry Donna's incredible handmade soaps. Oven baked and inspired by the earth and forest, her soaps lather beautifully and the aromas of them will make your bath or shower a wonderful experience! Donna, with her Metis background has chosen some wonderful names for her soaps, and the packaging is simply that - simple...no plastic, no excess wrapping, just a plain and simple band of paper which lets the soap shine on its' own. Sweetgrass, cedar, winterberry, cranberry, Bay Rum, all the sensuous smells of the season are here..come by and breath deeply..you will be glad you did. And, at just $4.95 a bar, they make a nice treat for that someone special in your life ( including YOU!)

The other new item in the shop ( which is selling so quickly that I am on my third order!) is from "The Woodlot" in Meaford Ontario. Aptly called "Firewood Artistry", Jessie's design flair is just what is needed to top off your latest sweater or shawl. The buttons, shawl pins and toggles are just stunning. Reclaimed timber and fallen trees are cut and polished and finished with tung oil and beeswax to create these one-of-a-kind buttons. With the bark still on, and the grain highlighted, these are pieces that will catch your eye ( and everyone else's!) when you wear your latest scarf, shawl or sweater. We first found Jessie at The Knitters Fair in Kitchener this fall where the people at her booth were three deep, so it's easy to see that her commitment to "giving old wood new life" is something worth sharing! Come on in and see her work, starting at just $6.00 dollars for a whole card of buttons...you won't be disappointed.

Christmas is coming

Hello Knitters,



Well, just as it does every year, Christmas is coming fast and furious!! And this year, I have added a feature to the shop that I hope will make your present opening a fun experience! We have all opened our share of food processors, irons, reindeer slippers and pink tool kits...but this year, I want you to be able to open a present that you REALLY want!



So to make that easier for the present buyers in your life ( hubby, kids, relatives, fellow knitting friends),The Purple Sock now has a "Wish List"! All you do is come in, choose the items you would love to see under your tree and write them into my little "Wish List Book"...then when the kids, your hubby, or your sister-in-law come in...their work is done! How easy is that??



Happy Knitting!

Lynn

Thursday Knit along

Hi Everyone



Hope you are enjoying this wonderful weather we have had the last few days.

I am thinking of doing a Thursday afternoon knit along from 1:00Pm till 3:00Pm this will run till you are finished your project.

I have a new yarn in by Naturally called Mohair. It is a blend of mohair, wool and nylon and lovely to work with.. It is light weight and warm. There are some great patterns for it. What I am thinking about doing for this knit along is we would all be using the same yarn but you would be free to pick from among any of the patterns that they have for this yarn. I will be there to help you along with any problems.

There is no charge for this you just have to buy the yarn and the pattern to join us. I am hoping to start as soon as possible. So if you are interested take a look at the link below which will show you the yarn colours and the patterns that are available. I am just in the process of finishing pattern #N1125 the Scalloped Edge Cropped jacket and I am planning to knit pattern #N1139 . If you are interested please let me know , I have some copies of the patterns and some colours of the yarn but can order in whatever colour you might like.



http://naturallyyarnsnz.com/product.php?id=144

Happy Knitting
Lynn

Coldwater witches walk

As you can see by the photo's it was a great night, many many wonderful witches were out in Coldwater for the Witches Walk. Thanks to everyone for making it such a fun and successful night.
Lynn

Witches Walk in Coldwater!!

The Witches Walk in Coldwater!!


Once again, Coldwater shops open their doors on Wednesday night, October 26th for freaky fun and frivolity!

Come dressed in your finest, scariest, creepiest Witches attire and take part in all the activities and happenings in town....from 6:30 til 9PM, you can pop into the Purple Sock and needlefelt a black cat pin, find some wispy yarn to make a great scarf or enjoy a cup of Witches Brew tea!

Trick or Treat ~ we will see you there!!

Happy knitting!

Lynn

Warm Hands Network

Hello Everyone,

You are all so amazing! I have just sent off a second box filled with gorgeous knitting to The Warm Hands Network in Ottawa, thanks to an anonymous donor who paid for the mailing.

Check out the link below with photos that they have posted on their blog.

http://findingfortygatheringknitting.blogspot.com/
There are also photos on this post of all the wonderful things you have knit.

Here is what we sent along this time:
12 blankets
16 hats
2 hat and mitt sets
3 pairs of mittens
4 neck warmers
1 bib
6 pairs of socks
(and a whole lotta love and caring!)



Thanks to each and every one of you who helped in whatever way!! Whether it was knitting, donating yarn, donating money for shipping...every action adds up to a positive force which will keep some great kids warm and cosy this winter.


This is an on-going project, there next shipment will go the end of January as well, so keep the knitting coming! If you need information about the project, let me know.


Take care and Happy Knitting!

Lynn

Sock of the Month

I will be having the Sock of the Month Club again this year. Last year this went over very well, we all had a great time and learned lots of different sock knitting techniques.

This is not for beginner sock knitters. You really need to have already knit a pair or two of socks as I will not be teaching the basics. Each month there will be a different sock yarn and a new pattern. I try to include some new technique each time. Different heels, or toes, top down, toe up etc.


This will start on Thursday October . 6th at 7 pm. We always meet on the first Thursday of each month. This year we will meetin October, November and December and then take January and February off and then meet again for March, April, May and June. So 7 socks in all. So if you are interested in socks and are game to try new things please join us.

Fee: $22.00 & HST each month. this includes yarn and pattern.

What to bring : 2:25mm needles. either circulars or double pointed. Show and tell from last years socks or any great socks you have knit and would like to show off, we are always interested in other patterns and different yarns!!

If you would like to do the Sock of the Month but can’t attend the meetings I am more that happy to sell you the kit!! ( I can always give you a quick lesson on the technique we are using.) I can also mail order them if you are not close by.
Happy knitting

Lynn

P.S. Don’t forget to come and check out the scarf of the week, the one that Hetty is wearing each week will be 10% off for that week only.

Yarn storming

Hello Everyone,

Well, the trusty on-line encyclopaedia -Wikipedia - defines "Yarn Storming" as " a type of graffiti or street art that employs colourful displays of knitted or crocheted yarn rather than cloth, spray paint or chalk".

And so you say, how does this interest me?? Well, check out the photos on my blog. An "un-named" group of knitters has taken the lead on this type of art and has yarn stormed ,or yarn bombed, a local bridge.

If you are in the area, just take a quick drive up the Vasey Road and go across the Sturgeon River bridge...look left and right, and see what this group has created! The bridge is between Rosemount Rd and Gervais Rd.

fall class schedule

Hi Everyone


Hard to believe it is fall already, but it is a great time to starting knitting a new project. I have lots of classes planned so hope you find something of interest.
I will also be starting a new knit along(more info to follow) Also The Sock of
the Month will be starting the beginning
of Oct. (more info to follow on this also)There are lots of new yarns coming in
this fall, I will keep you updated on this.
Happy Knitting
Lynn
BEGINNER RUG
HOOKING
Instructor: Gayle Gunby

Come and learn a craft that is indigenous to North America. It is
very portable and with only one stitch to master, it is very easy to produce
a charming piece of artwork. You do not have to be an artist to participate.
Join us to learn the basics of rug hooking. We will talk about it's history;
how to transfer a pattern, choose colours and how to finish a rug.

Fee $40.00 & HST
Materials are extra. You will
need to purchase the rug hooking kit on the first day at $40.00 plus HST
You will also need a hook and hoop, which are available
for sale at the store. Hooks $10.00
Hoops $22.00
2 week course

Saturday Nov. 5th 10 till 2pm
Saturday Nov 19th from 10 till 2 pm.
Please bring your lunch Tea will be provided.

.
.

LEARN TO KNIT PORTUGUESE STYLE
Instrcutor: Lynn Stitchman
What is this you ask? Your knitting turns out just the same. This is
another method of holding the yarn.
The yarn is tensioned around your neck or with the use a knitting pin.
Fee: $20 .00 & HST
Wed. Oct 19th from 7:00Pm till 9:00PM
Fee includes a knitting pin.
Please bring practice yarn and needles.Medium weight is best to start with.
Straight or circular needles will both work fine, depending on what
you like to use.




BASIC SOCK KNITTING
Instructor: Lynn Stitchman
Basic knitting knowledge required you need to know how to cast on,
cast off, knit and purl. You will learn to use double pointed
needles and all it takes to knit a pair of socks.
Fee $50.00 & HST Includes yarn and pattern.
You will need size 3.75mm double pointed needles.
3 week course starting
Thurs Oct 13, Oct 20th and Oct 27th
7 pm till 9 pm





Amethyst Garden Shawl
Instructor: Kathleen Fitzgerald
This class will introduce the basics of lace knitting including: finding your
lace gauge: making sense of charts: reading your knitting: making friends with
stitch markers: basic short-row shaping: adding beads to your knitting, finishing
and proper blocking methods.

Fee: $40.00 & HST which includes the
pattern.
Materials list provided on registion there will be a little pre work required
for this class

3 week class starting
Sept. 28th, Oct 5th, and Oct 12th. 7 till 9pm


BABY SWEATER KNIT
TOP DOWN ALL IN ONE
PIECE.
This is a great project to learn how to knit top down with no
seaming. Basic knitting skills required, knit, purl, cast on
and cast off all the rest you will learn. This little baby cardigan can be
knit in 3 different sizes 3-6 month,6-12 months, or 2 year. . Come out
and give it a try.
Fee; $45.00 which includes the pattern.
You will need needles and yarn, which can be purchased
here. Size 3.75mm circular and 3.75mm double pointed. Double
knitting yarn is what we will be using and I have several different ones
to choose from.
3 week class starting Nov. 10th.
Nov. 17th and Nov 24th 7 till 9 pm
.


BEGINNER KNITTING
Instructor: Lynn Stitchman
Learn the basics, cast on, cast off,knit and purl. Make a scarf.
Fee $50.00 & GST Includes yarn and
pattern.
Size 5.5 or 6mm needles needed.
3 week course starting
Thurs. Sept 15th, Sept 22nd, and Sept29th 7pm till 9pm





Knit a Peggy Sue doll
Instructor; Lynn Stitchman
These whimsical dolls let your inner self out to play. They are so much
fun to create.Basic knitting skills required, the
rest will be taught.The class includes all the material
you just need to add the love.A fun and creative time.
You will need 4mm straight needles,3mm double points and 9mm double
points. Some of these will be available to use during the class if you don't have
them.
Fee: $50.00 & HST
Nov. 2nd, Nov. 9th and Nov 16th.
7 pm till 9pm.



About Kathleen Fitzgerald
Kathleen has been knitting since she earned her badge at Brownies. About 3 years ago, she was bit by the lace knitting "bug" and quickly
became addicted. So far, Kathleen has knit over 25 different shawls, including 12 shawls for the Ravelry "10 shawls in 2010" challenge, and her
project list just keeps on growing.



About Gayle Gunby

Gayle was raised for most of her childhood in the village of Coldwater,
however her Father's job with the C. P. R. took her and her sibling all
over Ontario. She returned to the village as their Kindergarten
teacher in 1970 and here she remains. Gayle has embraced most crafts
and became a certified Mayco ceramic teacher in 1980. Gayle is a self taught
rug hooker and one of her pieces is on permanent display in the Black
History and Cultural Museum in Collingwood. Pieces of her primitive
style handiwork can be found in homes all over Ontario as well as
Vancouver. Her inspiration comes from family...those here now and those who
have "passed over".
.
.


About Lynn Stitchman
Lynn is the owner of The Purple Sock which opened for business in May of
2007. I have always knit for as long as I can remember and have been spinning
my own yarns for the last 15 years. I have tried many other fibre art forms over the
years but always come back to the knitting and spinning. I am very interested in
natural fibers and making knitting an enjoyable pass time for anyone that
would like to give it a try. I have always been interested in tea, trying new
kinds, learning more about them and where they come from.

Warm Hands Network

Hi Everyone,



I hope you have all been enjoying this great weather, hard to believe the summer is almost over!!


Just a reminder to everyone...... if you have items to hand in for our Charity project, (Warm Hands Network) I would like to have them before the end of next week, Sunday, September 4th, as I need to get them mailed off to them in Ottawa.


This is an on-going project, and their next shipment will go the end of January, so if you wanted to do something and have just run out of time, you can always do it for the next shipment.


I have received all kinds of wonderful knitted items to send and I thank you all so much for your generosity. Watch for more photos on my blog of all the items we will be sending.



"Warm Hands" did a very nice entry on their blog (link is below) about the items already sent. Unfortunately some items were put in with other peoples items and their names were not mentioned, but I know who you are, so thanks to all of you!



http://findingfortygatheringknitting.blogspot.com/


Happy Knitting

Lynn

Peggy Sue and Ravelry!!

Hello everyone


Well, I must say that this is a "Banner Day" for me! I have posted my first pattern on Ravelry and it has already sold!!



"Peggy Sue" is my first published pattern, and judging by all the various "Peggy Sue's" in the front windows of the Purple Sock, you all seem to like knitting her, making her your own and giving her your own special name.



In addition to the pattern,( which is also available here at the shop), I will be making kits for her too...these are still in the creating stage, but as soon as they are ready, I will post a note on here. She is addictive! So many various yarns can be used, so many different hair styles, and so many different ways to make her your own...and a great way to use up your stash as well.


I will also be doing another workshop on it in the fall, so stay tuned for that.


If you are not familiar with Ravelry, click here to check it out..and if you have already knit up your own Peggy Sue, please post a picture on Ravelry so others can see how different she can be...thanks!



href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/peggy-sue-dolls ">

Happy Knitting
Lynn

Linsey Projects

Hello Everyone,

I hope you are having a great summer and surviving this heat, just think of February and March and perhaps the heat won't seem so awful,lol!

One of the wonderful things about knitting is that it can be done year 'round and especially so when you have a fabulous yarn like Berroco's "Linsey"! Made in Italy, this summer weight yarn is 64% cotton and 36% linen, which makes for a soft, yet substantial hand to any item you knit.

The short sleeved top was made for our trip to Cuba and it proved invaluable! Great with slacks, shorts or over a swimsuit, it was a quick, easy knit. But nothing was as quick and easy as the lacy shrug! Just the perfect thing over a T-shirt or a little dress in the evening...several of the Purple Sock knitters have made this shrug, and the short sleeved cardigan is also something that Linsey just lends itself to....the drape is wonderful and the little details really show up as Linsey has great stitch definition...BUT, the last piece is my favourite! WOW! Isn't it great ( if I do say so myself!).... I can see that this piece is one I am going to wear a LOT! I love the way the back looks on this piece and I love the flow-y drape of the front panels too.

Purchase the yarn for a Linsey project and get the pattern or pattern book at 40% off for the month of August.



So, come on in, see the wonderful colours and the various pieces up close, try them on and finish out the summer with a Linsey project, there are lots more patterns in the shop as well. Stay cool!



Happy Knitting!
Lynn

YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!!

I have sent off some knitting to Warm Hands Network and I know there is still more to come. Below are photo's of what is now making its way to Ottawa. One of my customers was going to North Bay and has a friend that is going to Ottawa at the end of the month and will be delivering what I have sent.
2 baby sweaters, one with a hat
1 neck warmer
2 baby blankets
9 pairs of socks
14 pairs of mitts
11 hats.
thanks so much everyone and keep up the good work. I know these will all be very much appreciated!!
Hope you are all having a safe and happy summer
Happy Knitting
Lynn

Duck Race in Coldwater

Well the Duck Race is over again for another year. Each year the Business Improvement Association has a contest for window display.
The Purple Sock has won first prize again this year. This is our second year to win. Thanks to everyone that helped with it. Not sure if you can tell by the photo's but we had a train going around with little rubber ducks on it and some felted ducks around it. Also we used Izzy dolls as the crowd watching the the race.
Here are a couple of photos. It is not easy to take them as I always seem to get a glare or reflection from across the street.
I have lots of great summer yarns in the store, now that the warm weather is here you might want to knit a summer top or two. come on in and take a look.
Happy Knitting
Lynn

YOU KNIT, WE SHIP!



Calling all crochetters knitters! How about dedicating some of your stash to an outstanding project? The Warm Hands Network and the Purple Sock are teaming up for this worthy cause.

We are knitting for the Innu of Northern Labrador. The items you create will be shipped to Sheshatsuit to warm Innu children and elders. The items are distributed by community health workers to families in need. They would be very grateful to receive warm clothing, hats, socks, sweaters or blankets, for children up to 12 years old.

The Moosonee Native Friendship Centre would like to receive hand-knit blankets, sweaters, hats and mittens for distribution through their pre- and post-natal programs and their Headstart program. The items are distributed to Cree children in Moosonee and up the James Bay coast.


Helpful Hints
• Knit or crochet your favorite patterns or try something new. Check out our web-site for patterns.
• Avoid white or very light colors. Feel free to mix a bright and cheery palate from your yarn collection! Machine washable is preferred.
• Please assume standard garment sizes. And, remember, warmth is very important – Labrador and James Bay have cold winters. Hats need to cover ears, sleeves need to go the wrist and torsos need to be long.
• No used items please.

Where? When?
You can drop off your projects at the Purple Sock, 13 Coldwater Road, Coldwater Ontario. Our deadline is September 0, 2011.


What is the Warm Hands Network? We will ship your charity knitting to our partners. We love knitting, and know there are children out there in need of a warm hat or blanket, pair of mittens or socks.

“We cannot do great things, only small things with great love.” Join us!

Questions? Contact anita.barewal@rogers.com



Check out our web-site: www.warmhandsnetwork.org and our blog at www.findingfortygatheringknitting.blogspot.com

Anniversary Sale

Hi all
Believe it or not another year has past, (where does the time go?) this will mark the fourth year that I have been in business. I would like to take this Saturday May 7th to thank all of you by offering all items in the store at 10% off as well as some further reduced items in the backroom. There will be tea and cookies in the backroom, so please drop in for a visit. Hope to see you then!!
Happy knitting
Lynn

IZZY Dolls

You guys are amazing!! we have handed over 254 , yes I said 254 Izzy dolls to the Nursing progam at Georgian College.


Here are a couple of snaps of the Izzy Dolls that you all made. Aren't they amazing!!!
For anyone that didn' know , they are going with the nursing students from Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario as they travel to the Dominican Republic. there the nursing studends will be handing them out to children as they do basic nursing care.


I can just see the little hands which will be clutching these precious little dollies from Canada, holding them close and sleeping with them and just loving them to bits!!


A big thanks you to everyone that helped make the dolls, We had such a great reponse. Some ladies made dozens of them!!! And this just started about 4-5 weeks ago....knitters are such great people so generous and giving. ( Google "Izzy Dolls" to see the story of how they got their names, very poignant.)
I will be sending out another e-mail soon about about charity knitting project so hope you are not all knitted out.
Again thanks so much for all you help without all of you this would not have been possible.

take care and happy knitting
Lynn

New Assistant at the Purple Sock

Hello!


I am writing today to introduce my new assistant here at the Purple Sock! Her name is Lucinda, and while she is very shy and quiet, she is doing a great job of showcasing the gorgeous samples of finished pieces we have here in the shop.


Her sweater is knit from our "March Madness" special, Berroco's Ultra Alpaca..this luscious yarn is 50% Super Fine Alpaca and 50% Peruvian wool. It comes in three weights including Ultra Alpaca , Ultra Alpaca Light and Ultra Alpaca Fine, and all three weights are on sale in March for 15% off the regular price! In addition, we have some wonderful pattern books for this yarn, including Lucinda's stunning green sweater which she is wearing here for her debut!


Lucinda is going to be quite the clothes horse I think, she is already thinking of changing sweaters to the lovely teal one I knit from the Ultra Alpaca and Ultra Alpaca fine and while she just adores the lovely beret she is wearing, I saw her eyeing a pretty blue one which is here in the shop as well. It's a good thing I knit a lot and can keep her in the stylish knit items I think she is going to want.


So, please drop in to meet Lucinda and to check out the "March Madness" special on the Berroco Ultra Alpaca....see you soon!




Happy Knitting!




Lynn,
thepurplesock@vianet.ca