Frequently, we hear, "I don't like to work with cotton, it stretches..." and our response is, "give it another chance!"  Most of the cottons that we currently carry are blends or considered tightly spun and therefore doesn't necessarily stretch.  The most important factor to keep in mind when working with cotton is the twist of the ply.  If the the cotton (usually 100%) isn't balanced when it is twisted and plied, then that could cause some stretching known as a bias or tilt in the direction that the twist of the yarn leans.   This can be compensated by incorporating a pattern that mixes knits and purls.  All is good and that is just one little reason that you should try cotton again! 

Now that you've gotten a little yarn education, let me talk about this week's Yarn Spotlight....Weekend is a great blend 
of acrylic and cotton that works up beautifully!  A true worsted, 4.5 stitches per inch on a 7 or 8 needle, 205 yards and it produces a smooth, cottony texture!  Great pattern options too!  Check it out!    

This is the Weekend Wrap from CoCo Knits and Julie Weisenberger was 100% accurate when she said that you could complete in a weekend!  Laura and I both used Ripple from Tahki and we are both inclined to do a second one!  That is how quick and easy the pattern is to do!

 

Spring is baby time! It seems like every other customer who comes into the store lately is looking for a baby pattern and this week we are featuring a book which will make your pattern choice so easy! Grammy's Favorite Knits for Baby by Doreen L. Marquart, a wonderful book of fun knits for babies and toddlers.

The book is comprised of some Doreen Marquart's favorite designs. There are 20 projects in sizes from newborn to 24 months, ranging from easy to intermediate. The designs are classic, but what makes them new, is the use of color striping yarns and color combinations. There are many projects to choose from including sweaters, hats and booties, mittens, little girls' jumpers and several baby blankets.  We just love The Shoulder Button Pullover and Comfy Hoody which are both knit in the round.

There are a variety of earflap hats to choose from, the Tricolor Ensemble has a welted hat that is beautiful. Once the hat is made you won't be able to stop until the booties, mitten and sweater are complete!

Grammy's Favorite Knits for Baby includes tips and tricks along the way, plus easy to follow instructions, schematics, and a nice little glossary and knitting basics section. This book is sure to become one of your favorites. Stop by this week and pick up your copy at 30% off.