Sunday, February 21, 2010

Stitches is coming! Stitches is coming!


Stitches West, that is.

If you aren't familiar, it's a big knitting show that comes to town once a year. There are classes, demonstrations, fashion shows, and a market with yarn and needles and books and accessories and so much more. I really look forward to it and take time off work so I can attend the morning of the first day, before it gets packed. The Stitches Market is overwhelming enough without having to elbow and glare your way through a crowd to get a close-up look at the latest in hand-painted yarn or get your hands on the discounted bamboo needles.

Last year I took two classes, one on needle felting and one on short rows, but this year decided not to take any because they are a bit pricey. I'd rather spend the same amount on a four-week class at my local yarn shop than a two-hour class at Stitches.

I went through my stash this weekend, gathered up a grocery bag of yarn and gave it to Dogwood, who will use it to knit scarves and blankets for charity. It felt good to admit to myself that I won't ever use that yarn and then let it go. Now I can shop at Stitches without quite as much guilt.

The show begins on Friday, so this week I'm going to decide on a few patterns I want to knit in the coming months. That way I can attend the market with a shopping list for specific projects rather than buying yarn just because it's soft or shiny or affordable. But I'm sure there will be at least a little bit of impulse shopping ... that's what makes Stitches fun.

12 comments:

GerryART said...

So, you think you're not going to succumb to the call of the yarns???
We are going to expect a complete, honest report of your purchases.
To be honest, I'm envious of your trip to Stitches West

Dogwood said...

Thanks again for all the great yarn. I will have lots of knitting fun in the coming months.

The count down begins for the Stitches West! I know you love going and glad you will be there the first day in the morning. Hopefully you won't have to push and shove so much. Love your photo today.

Fun day yesterday...

Rachel said...

It sounds wonderful! Have fun - well, of course you will.

Full report expected!

Suz said...

first of all...how was the craft show with your buddy?
I am getting excited for you!
What a great thing to let go of yarn
and yet know so much good will come from it
and what's wrong with a little implule buying..that's what you wait for all year
indulgence!

Theresa said...

Oh how fun for you! Isn't it wonderful to look forward to learning something new. Get your list all ready and have a fun time! Hugs!

Woollywotnots said...

sounds like fun!

Susan Gallacher-Turner said...

Oh, the wonder of a huge room full of yarn...the colors, the textures, the sparkles!!

I think you're decision to go with patterns/needs in hand is a wonderful one. But don't do what I've done and ignore the one that tugs at your heart. I always regret it when I do that...especially when later I find the perfect thing to use it for.

Have FUN!
Susan

Maiden Jane said...

How fun! I've never been to a Stitches event. We have a mini-version here in Ohio - Knitter's Fantasy. This year I'm teaching a beginner's knitting class. I think it's a good idea to have some projects and yarn ideas in mind. It can be overwhelming to walk around, tempted by so much, but not sure what to get. Have a great time!

Kitty said...

I can't wait to hear all about it! I've never been to a stitches before- but I heard that it's amazing! Tell us all about it!

PunkiePie (Jen) said...

Have a great time! A friend of mine attends when it hits the East coast. She loves it too.

GARAGE SALE GAL said...

Hi Stacy,
Do you make felt animals?? I have seen so very cute little animals in blogland?
Have FUN!!!
Warmly,
Deb :)

Thimbleanna said...

Oooh, I hope you have a wonderful time -- it sounds so fun! I've never been good at stash shopping with yarn (I can do it all day with fabric though.) I have to have a pattern in mind -- I'm too afraid that I wouldn't get enough yarn!