NEW Upcoming Classes

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Happy Endings: Finishing

A KnitHow Class with Lynne Sosnowski

The Are you one of those knitters who has a basket full of knit pieces just waiting to be
seamed together or finished in some way? Come to this class where we’ll cover the things you need to know to put your project together and end up with a smile on your face.

This KnitHow class starts with seaming – including shoulder seams, side seams, all the
parts of sleeve seams, and working two kinds of fabric texture together. We’ll also work
on picking up stitches to make your edge treatments, sewing in ends securely, and
washing & blocking.

We’ll talk about how different cast-ons and bind-offs can affect your finished project, and we’ll take up a list of questions from students in the class about finishing and point you to answers. Students are welcome to bring projects in progress as samples or to ask specific questions.

Prerequisites: Students must be able to knit and purl confidently and without assistance, and should have some familiarity with basic increases and decreases.

Skill Level: Intermediate-Beginner to Intermediate

Homework: Two swatches, see website for details

Scheduling: One session of two hours: Saturday February 8, 1-3pm OR March 14, 1-3pm

Materials: see website for details

Fixing Your Mistakes

A KnitHow Class with Lynne Sosnowski 

There’s nothing under earth and sky that will keep us from making mistakes, it’s just
part of human nature. But when it comes to knitting, there are lots of things we can do to prevent mistakes in the first place and then other tricks we can use to keep small mistakes from becoming big disasters.

This KnitHow class starts with learning how to read your knit fabric – we first brush up on how stitches should look and line up so we can prevent a mistake as we’re knitting. We then look at pattern reading and understanding, so we can know what we’re meant to do before we do it. We have lots of strategies to explore to help us stay on pattern. We will practice counting stitches and rows, and get a working understanding of gauge. Once we’ve done some actual knitting (small homework requirement), we will look at diagnosing our mistake, and we will talk about cosmetic versus structural remedies. Then we will work our way through fixes for the most common mistakes including: dropped stitch, slipped stitch, twisted stitch, accidental hole, split yarn, purl instead of knit and vice-versa. We will continue with “disaster management”, including learning how to unknit small amounts as well as when and how to rip out sections of a piece.

Skill Level: Any

Prerequisites: Students must be able to knit and purl confidently and without assistance, and should have some familiarity with basic increases and decreases.

Homework: One swatch, see website for details

Scheduling: One session of three hours: Saturday February 1, 1-4 pm OR March 7, 1-4 pm

Materials: see website for details

Toe-Up Socks on Two Circulars

A KnitHow Class with Lynne Sosnowski

Lynne specializes in helping students grow their “sock literacy” while making adult-sized socks in fingering weight yarn. This class is of interest to brand new sock makers, those who have only knit top-down socks, and those who wish to learn the Two Circulars method.

In the first session, students jump right into learning a bi-directional cast-on (Turkish/Middle Eastern), several options for increases, and how to create sock toes and feet. Throughout students are taught not just the “how” of executing their instructions but the “knithow” – the effect those instructions have on the fabric and how to read their stitches to find their way. Along the way, we cover how to custom-fit socks to any feet. Students are expected to work their sock to a specific point prior to the second session.

In the second session, students work through a short-row heel and how to create sock legs and cuffs. Throughout students are guided with diagrams, waypoints, and even sing-song to find their way by reading their own fabric. Instructions on custom-fitting and altering socks are discussed. Students complete the sock cuff on their own time. Learn how to make the most of your sock yarn by starting your socks at the toes, and knitting up until you run out of yarn!

Prerequisites: Students must be able to knit and purl confidently and without assistance, and should have some familiarity with basic increases and decreases.

Skill Level: Advanced-Beginner/Intermediate. 

Homework: There is no homework prior to the first class. There will be some knitting expectations to meet to be best able to participate in the second class. 

Scheduling: Two session of two hours each (a total of 4 hours). Saturday February 1 and 8: 10am to 12pm.

Materials: see website for details

Beginner Cowls

A Beginner Workshop with Erica Wilson

This is a follow-up course to our Absolute Beginner Class. You’ll continue to learn more of the basics: the purl stitch, working in the round on circular needles and how to finish off and weave in the ends. You’ll also learn the basics of following a pattern. By the end, you should be well on your way to making your first cowl!  If you do not already have your materials please come to the class 10 to 15 minutes early to choose.


Skill Level: After Absolute Beginner (you should already know how to cast on and knit)

Scheduling: One session of 2.5 hours. Saturday February 15, 10 am- 12:30 pm

Materials: See website for details

Beginner Crochet:

A Beginner Workshop with Erica Wilson

This is a crash course to get you crocheting fast! You’ll learn the basics to get you up and running: understanding yarn information, the proper way to hold your hook, how to chain, the single crochet stitch and the double crochet stitch. By the end, you should be well on your way to making your first scarf.


Skill Level: Absolute Beginner 

Scheduling: One session of 2.5 hours. Saturday February 15, 1 pm – 3:30 pm or Saturday March 28, 1 pm to 3:30 pm

Materials: See website for details

NEXT SWAP Saturday Jan 25, 1-3 pm

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NEXT SWAP: Saturday Jan 25, 1-3 pm

$5 – Proceeds go to the Red Door Women’s Shelter

It’s swap time again! Time to tidy up your yarn stash and purge the stuff you’re never going to use. That’s right, you can bring us your shame and leave your guilt in our yarn swap bins with the assurance that the yarn that didn’t work out for you will have a second (or third, or fourth) life in a new home. What do you do at a swap? Bring in the yarn and needles you don’t want and take home whatever you like from our swap bins.

Bring

  • Yarn (please secure bits & bobs in a ziplock bag)
  • Knitting Needles & Crochet Hooks
  • Knitting & Crochet Notions & Accessories

The leftovers are donated to charities, and don’t be embarrassed by the quality of the yarn you bring, whatever is left over is donated to charities like Street Knit, West Toronto Support Services, and Gilda’s Club, most of whom prefer acrylic! If you want to donate but can’t make the date please feel free to drop it by when we are open, sealed up in a plastic bag. The only yarn we can’t accept is anything that is strongly scented (cigarette smoke or perfume). We are also a drop-off point for Street Knit and Knitted Knockers of Canada. 

Details

  • $5 to participate in the swap (proceeds go to the Red Door Women’s Shelter)
  • Drop-in, no need to sign up
  • Everyone is welcome, all skill levels
  • Location: 1382 Bathurst St, Toronto ON
  • In-Store only, NOT ONLINE

NEW PROJECT Ayla Chunky Cabled Socks

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Ayla

Happy New Year! I hope you had (or are still having) a great holiday. This project was supposed to be for the holidays, but you know how things are … life. I thought the Ayla socks would make great wearing around the house or slipper socks, akin to reading socks, but made from something lovely, natural, and by YOU!

We used the luscious and seriously cozy Illimani Llama II, and our socks definitely turned out delicious! Camelid fibres like Llama and Alpaca tend to stretch once they are worn, so you may want to go down a needle size if you use this type of fibre. Wool and the wool blend the pattern is designed in (Berroco Vintage Chunky) tend to be springy and keep their shape much better. If machine washability is important for you, go with the Malabrigo Mecha or Berroco Vintage Chunky, both are superwash yarns and a no-brainer.

Yarn Options

We used Illimani Llama II (2 skeins), but you can use a few other options:

Materials

Happy Holidays (+Sale)

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Until January 5th, take 20% off select yarns, accessories, knitting needle and crochet hook sets, and more!

Holiday Store Hours

Wednesday Dec 25: Closed

Thursday Dec 26: Closed

Friday Dec 27: 11am – 6pm

Saturday Dec 28: 11am – 6pm

Sunday Dec 29: 11am – 6pm

Monday Dec 30: 11am – 6pm

Tuesday Dec 31: 11am – 3pm

Wednesday Jan 1: Closed

Thursday Jan 2: 11am – 6pm

Favourite Holiday Gifts (for fibrely people)

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Under $25

Firefly Project Bags

Firefly Drawstring Project Bags are adorable and practical! Made from 100% cotton, each bag measures is large enough to hold a small to medium size project. Plus it’s made right here in Canada! They make great for knitters & crocheters. 100% Cotton, 8″(20cm) wide, 10″(25cm) high, digitally printed, Made in Canada. $9.97

Firefly Stitch Markers

Firefly Stitch Markers are the most beautiful and useful no-snag stitch markers we’ve ever seen, and we fell in love immediately! They come in different sizes and colours (details listed below), and some come with an extra marker that looks different, to mark your place in your work (like the beginning of your round). Nickel free, Made in Canada. $10.97

Rubber Wrist Rulers

Rubber Wrist Ruler is a silicone wristband with engraved inch and centimetre measurements. It’s a vegan alternative to the classic Wrist Ruler, and now you can wear your ruler everywhere and never take it off. It’s one-size-fits-most (the full length is 18″/48cm), it’s waterproof, and it’s available in black, white, and a classic ruler yellow.  Wrist Ruler is made in the US. $13.97

Gleener ‘Swet’ Project Bags

We think Gleener Swet Bags make perfect project bags, but they’re so much more. They’re designed to keep odours, wetness and messed contained. The zipper and lining are both waterproof, so they also make a great travel companion to the gym, swimming or beyond. Keep your projects safe, clean and dry anywhere you go! $14.97 to$19.97

Squiggle Shawl Pins

Nature’s Wonders Sweater & Shawl pins are beautiful & functional artisanal accessories for your knits. They are hand made from reclaimed wood by a lifetime artisan, located in central Ontario, Canada. Each piece is unique, no two are exactly alike. $17.97

Yarn Spindles

Made of Beech Wood, these Yarn Spindles are the perfect way to keep yarn freely flowing while you crochet or knit. Each spindle consists of a base with non-slip pads, and a removable top that spins on the base. Natural wax finish.
6″ tall x 3.5″ diameter. $19.97

Crafty Kit Company Needle Felting Kits

New from the Crafty Kit Company, these needle felting kits contain everything you need to create a beautiful and realistic animal head. You’ll learn how to make a wire armature, then build it up with felting wool, and finally add the details that will really bring your creation to life. Each kit comes with all the felting wool you need, a tube with 3 felting needles, glass eyes, wire, pipe cleaners, nylon, a mat to work on, wood slice for mounting, faux leather strap and clear step by step instructions. Finished object will measure approximately 15cm tall. $23.97 to $32.97

Gleener Fuzz Remover

Restore your wardrobe and other treasured textiles with the Gleener® Ultimate Fuzz Remover™. This award winning fabric de-piller and lint brush combo safely removes fuzz balls, lint and pet hair from even the finest of fabrics. Colour is Slate Blue. $23.97

Under $50

Rico Weaving Loom

Rico Looms are a great, inexpensive tool to get into weaving! These small, hand-held looms are uncomplicated and can be used by adults and children. Kit contains all you need to start weaving: weaving loom, shuttle, comb, heddle rod, and step by step instructions. Just add the yarns, roving and fabric pieces you would like to use. Sizes: Small (19cm x 29cm) and Large (30cm x 39.5cm). $29.97 to $49.97

Mango Wood Yarn Bowl

Yarn bowls are a great way to hold your yarn while you’re working on a project. These yarn bowls are made of mango wood, so they’re sturdier and lighter than their ceramic cousins. They won’t snag or imprison your yarn in the carved swirl, so you can access your project at any time. They’re heavy enough to stay in place while you’re working but light enough that you can bring it with you to knit night. $39.97

Leather Wrist Rulers

Wrist Ruler is a leather wristband with engraved inch and centimetre measurements. If you find yourself always needing to measure things when you’re on the go, this is the perfect product for you. Wrist Ruler is made in the US. $27.97 to $34.97

Twig & Horn Argyle Sock Blockers

Keep handknit socks in tip-top shape with Twig & Horn’s Argyle Sock blockers. Diamond cutouts keep airflow flowing as socks are drying after wet blocking. Each set comes with two blockers. Twig & Horn’s crafted their argyle sock blockers using high-quality MDF board made with 100% recycled/recovered, FSC certified wood content. This eco-friendly option stands the test of time and holds up to plenty of use without warping or cupping. Measurements below are given for blocker foot length. Made in Maine, USA. $45.97

Under $75

Prym All-in-One Needlework Bag

The Prym All-in-One Needlework bag is a great option for organizing your needles and notions. $66.97

  • Universal needlework bag for transporting accessories
  • 8 transparent inner pockets (no exterior pockets)
  • 12 interior loops for tidy needle storage (or other accessories)
  • Sturdy handles
  • 13″/33cm wide x 11.5″/30cm high x 4″/10cm deep
  • Cotton exterior, nylon interior with clear vinyl zippered pockets 
  • Made in Germany

Under $100

Knitting Comfortably by Carson Demers

Imagine being told you have to stop knitting because of discomfort in your hands, arms, neck, or back. Imagine the sense of frustration and the longing to get the needles back in your hands. Imagine the lingering doubt you might have when you can pick them up again: “What was I doing wrong after all these years of knitting?” “Will I get hurt again?” “Will I have to stop knitting forever to make this pain go away?” Maybe you’d like to be a faster, more efficient knitter, or a knitter who produces more projects, but you’re not sure what’s getting in the way.

This book will help you understand the ergonomics of knitting so you can improve your safety, efficiency, and productivity in knitting. You’ll learn to identify ergonomic risks that contribute to injury and reduce knitting efficiency. Throughout the book, you’ll be provided with activities and guidance to improve your knitting ergonomics so you can knit more confidently and comfortably. Through instruction in stretches, exercise, and self-care, you’ll also learn how to manage the discomfort common to knitters before it becomes an injury, and how to recognize when it’s time to seek help from a health-care professional. $79.97

The Principles of Knitting

The Principles of Knitting is basically the Bible, the Encyclopedia, and the OED of knitting, COMBINED. Reading The Principles of Knitting is like having a knitting mentor by your side who can answer any knitting question you have in an honest, intelligent, informed manner.

A treasured guide beloved by knitters everywhere, the classic book The Principles of Knitting is finally available again in a fully revised and updated edition. This is the definitive book on knitting techniques, with valuable information for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters. June Hiatt presents not only a thorough, thoughtful approach to the craft, but also a passion for carrying on the art of knitting to future generations. She has repeatedly tested the various techniques and presents them with clear, easy-to-follow instructions—as well as an explanation of what each one can contribute to your knitting. Informed by decades of experience and thousands of hours of practice, this comprehensive resource offers a variety of ways to approach every skill and technique and offers solutions that can help solve the most challenging aspects of any knitting project.

The Principles of Knitting has been totally rewritten—new instructions, new illustrations, and new information. While the basics of knitting have not changed much, June’s understanding of the material has deepened over the last twenty-five years, and she’s eager to share what she has learned with the knitting world. In addition, the book has been reorganized to make it easier to use and has a gorgeous new design. $77.97

Just Over $100

Prym Store & Travel Bags

The Prym Store & Travel Bag is a great option for organizing your yarn and project in progress. It’s beautiful, elegant, and is big enough to hold a sizeable afghan project. Plus it’s portable, with bamboo handles and a detachable cotton canvas shoulder strap. The exterior is cotton and the interior has a water repellent lining. $115.97

  • Storage and transport of needlework accessories
  • Sturdy and stable with a reinforced bag bottom
  • Water-repellent inner fabric
  • Carries up to 10 kg/22 lbs
  • 16″/40cm wide, 17″/43cm high,  8″/20cm deep

NEW Fleece Artist Wonder Woolen Thrum Mitten Kits

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Fleece Artist Wonder Woolen Thrum Mitten Kits

Thrumming is a very old technique that is seriously fun and functional. Small tufts of roving (wool that hasn’t been spun into yarn yet) are knit into the garment creating a fuzzy warm layer on the inside and irresistible dots of colour the outside. As you wear them, the thrummed roving felts down, keeping your hands warm and cozy (take note dog owners, these are ideal winter dog walking mitts). The mittens will be the colour of the yarn and the thrums (roving) will peek through. Each kit is individually hand dyed, no two will be exactly alike. Kit does not include needles:  5.5mm/US4 double-pointed needles. 

Note: I think the pattern provided has a mistake (that’s why our sample looks a bit weirdly) so we have included a correction in the kit (so your mitts don’t look weirdly)

Wonder Woolen Yarn

Wonder Woolen is a new yarn from Fleece Artist. It is 100% regionally sourced wool (25 Micron, Woolen Spun). It is heartier and sturdier than the yarns they have used in the past for their thrum kits, and will wear harder, last longer, and keep you warmer. They are so happy with this new yarn at Fleece Artist that they have discontinued all of their other thrum kits. Wonder Woolen is also thicker than the previous yarns used, and knits up faster on larger 5.5mm/US9 needles.

Kit Includes

  • Pattern & instructions 
  • Yarn: Fleece Artist Wonder Woolen, 113g (100% wool)
  • Merino Roving: 60g (100% merino wool) 
  • Size: Adult Medium

SALE Black Friday (& Grey Saturday)

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TWO DAYS ONLY

Friday Nov 29 & Saturday Nov 30 take 20% off a bunch of yarn, accessories, needle sets, needle sets, kits, bags, and more!