Sandee spent last weekend at the Brooklyn Fair demonstrating the Erlbacher Gearhart Circular Sock Knitting Machine.The Erlbacher Gearhart is a reproduction of the Gearhart Circular Sock Knitting Machine that was originally made in the 1920's. David "Pee Wee" Erlbacher of Erlbacher Gear and Machine Works decided to reproduce this piece of history in 2010. If you would like more information about this machine, contact Sandee at the shop.

Just a cute photo from the Brooklyn Fair. Both photos from the Fair were taken by Jeff Buchbinder and used in this blog with his permission.

The New Class Schedule will be out with the YWAT newsletter in a few days. Here are a couple of classes that will begin next week that you don't want to miss. Mitten Classes Continue Saturday, September 17th – 2pm to 4pm And/Or Saturday, September 24th – 9:30am to 11:30am Class will be a beginning, or continuation, of the Mini Mochi Springy Mittens and for those who would like to begin the Bella Mittens. The Mini Mochi mittens is an excellent pattern for a beginner knitter would wants to spread their wings and try something different, but not go too far out of their comfort zone. The Bella Mittens were a big hit at the shop last year and many requests have been received to repeat the class again. The Bella Mitten pattern utilizes cables and would be the perfect project for an intermediate knitter. Pattern for either mitten is available for free with the purchase of yarn. Recommended yarn for the Mini Mochi is – Mini Mochi by Crystal Palace; Bella Mittens – Katia Peru. Either pattern will require two skeins for an adult size. Note – If you are working on the Brioche Mitten and need more assistance, please call the shop or stop by one of these class times. Suggestions for other mitten classes are always appreciated. Road Map Scarf – The Road Map Scarf is a fun and interesting project incorporating 10 squares that are each unique and each incorporating a different pattern and technique. Date – Friday, September 16th from 2pm to 4pm Instructor – Barb This is an ongoing class and additional sessions will be planned on Sept. 16th Yarn Requirements – 6 skeins (one of each color), Size 4 – 9: straight or size to obtain gauge for main Size 4 – 32” circular needle or longer or size to obtain gauge for ruffle and i-cord. Gauge: 6 sts to 1 inch. This shop sample and the scarf pictured below were knitted using Mission Falls DK. Even though this yarn has been discontinued, we still have a nice sized inventory left. If you prefer to use another yarn, we will be happy to assist you in choosing the yarn and your colors.  Virginia completed her Road Map Scarf during our first classes. She did a great job. We will post photos of more scarves as they are completed. Time to bring out those needles and begin knitting for Fall, Winter and, even Christmas/Holiday gifts. Yarns With A Twist is stocked with new yarns in all your favorite colors and weights. Perfect for cold weather knitting. Stop in and see what's new. OUR STAFF AND CUSTOMERS MAKE THE PRETTIEST THINGS  Barbara W. knitted the RUCKLE HAT using Berroco Pure Merino. The Ruckle Hat is described as "a soft,scrunchy hat with folds or puckers knit into the body". This hat was a lot of fun to make and Barb will be available to teach if there is enough interest in forming a class. YWAT carries so many pretty shades of Berroco Pure Merino and this hat would look adorable out of any of them. The pattern is available in the current issue of KnitCircus. Knit Circus is an online publication. http://www.knitcircus.com/. You can view the magazine, but must purchase a subscription for the patterns. Patterns can be purchased for a specific issue for a nominal price. Definitely worth checking out.

KNIT MITTENS CLASS BEGINS SATURDAY, AUGUST 27th

THREE MITTENS - THREE LEVELS OF KNITTING

9:30 am to 11:30 am

A second session will also be added.
Date and time will be determined by the class participants.

Instructor – Barbara

Whether beginner, intermediate or more experienced knitter join me on Saturday, August 27^th to KNIT MITTENS.

For the BEGINNER, Bazinga yarn with size 10 dps, will yield a quick easy mitten. Along the way you will become more comfortable with knitting with double pointed needles, reading the pattern, doing increases and decreases and at the end a special, and easy bind off.

Materials – 2 skeins of Plymouth Bazinga yarn and one sent of #10 double pointed needles. This will create on pair of women’s medium mittens.

INTERMEDIATE knitters, who have already had the experience of knitting a basic mitten, the Mini Mochi Springy Ring is fun and easy.  With this pattern you can knit either a pair of mittens for a child or an adult.
Pattern is free and available with yarn purchase.

Materials – 1 or 2 skeins of Crystal Palace Yarns Mini Mochi. Amount of yarn required depends on the size - one skein is for a Child’s Medium. Remaining sizes use 2 skeins. #2 double pointed needles. Pattern is free and available with purchase of yarn.

For the more EXPERIENCED knitters, it has been requested that we knit the Brioche Twist with Latte Mittens (Hat class will follow). The pattern includes instructions for a hat and scarf too, but in this class we will concentrate only on the mittens. Brioche knitting as defined on Wikipedia  - “Brioche knitting is a family of knitting patterns involving tucked stitches, i.e., yarn overs that are knitted together with a slipped stitch from the previous row. Such stitches may also be made by knitting into the row below (equivalent to the slipped stitch) and dropping the stitch above (equivalent to the yarn over).”  Sounds complicated right. Wrong, the pattern that is used in this class is well written and easy to follow. When completed, you will have a beautiful and very warm pair of mittens. I will also be knitting a pair of mittens along with you, so we can all work together through any questions or problems you might encounter.

Materials – Mittens – 2 balls of each color of Ella Rae Latte  and size 9 double pointed or circular needles (16 inch). When knitting the shop sample I used double pointed needles and distributed my stitches accordingly.

Pattern is available as a download on Ravelry.com the name is Brioche Twist with Latte -  http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brioche-twist-with-latte cost is $5.00.

MITTEN CLASSES FOR FALL  

September Knit Mittens classes will include the popular Bella Mittens. If you didn’t make a pair of these wonderfully long mittens knitted with Katia Peru yarn last year, sign up for the class this fall. Other patterns will also be included in this class so all levels of knitters can participate and learn how much fun it is to knit a pair of mittens.

If you have a request for a mitten class please call the shop and let us know. Suggestions are double knit mittens and stranded mittens

The ROADMAP SCARF. We had so much fun making this scarf in August, that there have been requests by others to join in. Class will be planned for September.

A Tale of Two Hats

The RELAXED BERET pattern has become the source for two beautiful hats

The first was knitted using PLYMOUTH JULI. A very soft blend of alpaca, nylon, polyester with just a little bit of bling to bring a twinkle to your completed project. The pattern was altered just a bit to achieve a nice slouchy effect.  See tag on shop sample hat for that information.

Materials – 2 skeins of PLYMOUTH JULI, and Size 10 and 10 ½ double pointed needles. 

The second was knitted using the pattern suggested yarn – NORO KOCHORAN. Kochoran is a blend of wool, silk and angora. The colors very subtle and their gradual change results in a beautiful, soft and relaxed hat. This pattern is a quick, easy knit. Once you make one, you will want to make more. A simple and inexpensive solution to many on your holiday gift giving list.

Materials – 1 skein of NORO KORCHORAN and #10 16# circular and double pointed needles.

Pattern for the RELAXED BERET is available at YARNS WITH A TWIST – cost $5.00.

As some of you know, SANDEE has a prototype circular sock machine from Erlbacher Gearhart Knitting Machine Company here to show people this new machine being manufactured in the USA. The website for them is www.erlbachergearhart.com.  This was Sandee's first pair using this machine.  She made these socks using Tofutsies from SWTC, using a 3x1 mock rib method.

OUR STAFF AND CUSTOMERS
MAKE THE PRETTIEST THINGS 

 









Elizabeth Zimmerman Surprise Jacket was knitted by Sue Polomski using Rowans Tapestry yarns. This was a long term project for Sue, but definitely worth the wait. The sweater is modeled by Mary Ewalt. YWAT held a class for the EZ Surprise Jacket two summers ago, is it time for another one? Call the shop and let us know.

This scarf was knitted by shop regular Maralen. She used one of the many new ruffled yarns now available at YARNS WITH A TWIST. Normally the pattern suggests a narrower cast on, Maralen chose to go wider and didn't it turn out nice?  New yarns, RIPPLE, FLOUNCE and TRIANA yarn, plus CHA-CHA that came out late last fall, are all available at YWAT. Stop in soon to stock up for holiday gift giving.

 
Another completed project from Maralen is the Ribbon Triangle Shawl. This is a very simple shawl (and it is self-fringing) is knitted from one of the fun colors of Tartelette yarn. This shawl can be worn year round and would enhance anything you wear for the upcoming fall and winter holidays. If you are new to knitting and would like to make this shawl for yourself, or a gift, let us know. A mini-class can be set up to help you from beginning to end. 

Margaret W. just completed this pair of Double Helix Socks. The pattern was featured in the First Fall 2011 Knitty.com (an online magazine).When we took this photo we tried to position the sock on the right so you can see the Double Helix pattern in the heel. Beautiful job, Margaret, and kudos to you for attempting what can be a very challenging technique.

Sally S. knitted this elegant vest with two yarns - Kraemer Tatamy Tweed and Ellyn Cooper Yarn Sonnet Woolbury. Great job Sally!


 

YARNS WITH A TWIST
WILL HAVE REDUCED STORE HOURS 
DURING THE WEEK OF AUGUST 15TH
 
MONDAY & TUESDAY - AUGUST 15TH & 16TH - CLOSED
WEDNESDAY - AUGUST 17TH - 11AM to 5 PM (No Evening Hours)
THURSDAY - AUGUST 18TH - 11AM to 5 PM (No Evening Hours)
FRIDAY - AUGUST 19TH - 1 PM to 5 PM
SATURDAY - AUGUST 20TH - 11 AM to 5 PM

WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE
NORMAL STORE HOURS WILL RESUME ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 23RD

Yarns With A Twist will be CLOSED
Friday, August 5th and Saturday, August 6th.
YWAT will reopen on Tuesday, August 10th.

Manos Clasica and Maxima just arrived and it's so soft and beautiful. Sandee is already planning her next project from this yarn. Come on in and check it out....you will love it.

Cute and simple Cowl knitted with the new Blick Fang (means "eye catching") yarn. Blick Fang is lumpy and bumpy and very soft.  

• 99% Wool - 1% Nylon
• 175 yards per 100 gram skein
• US 11-15 needles
• 4.25 sts per inch

 

From the pages of the new Interweave Knits Weekend magazine comes this lovely MIXT COWL. Knitted with 2 skeins of PLYMOUTH BOBOLI and a #9 circular needle this is a quick knit and the yarn is oh so nice. This is a worsted weight yarn  with a blend of wool, acrylic and viscose. It also has a beautiful sheen. There are 206 yards per skein

Two skeins of PLYMOUTH BAZINGA yarn and a set of #10 needles = a quick and easy pair of mittens.  Every time I was in the store I would look at this yarn and wonder just what anyone would want to knit with it. I finally decided to take the plunge, purchase a couple of skeins and see what it looked like off the ball and into an actual project. How pretty are these mittens! BAZINGA is a super bulky weight yarn and that means a larger needle and very little time and effort to create. BAZINGA is also priced right too. At $6.00 a skein ($12.00 total) I have a fun pair of mittens for myself or can knit up many to be given as gifts for friends.
Pattern for these mittens will be available at YWAT and free with the purchase of yarn.  -- Barb Williams

MONTAGUE BULKY
LACE VEST

Another new yarn this fall is SCHULANA CAMBADA from Skacel yarns. This yarn has a heathered base with multi-colored slubs and a slight twist. CAMBADA is:
• 100% Merino Wool
• 66 yards per 50 gram ball
• 8-10 mm (approx. US 11-15) needles
• Approx. 2.75 sts per inch

This vest was knitted in the largest size and only used 9 skeins of yarn. The photos of the vest just don't do it justice. There is a pretty lacy pattern that is not showing well. The vest is now hanging in the shop and the next time you visit, take a look. Seeing it up close will definitely inspire you to make one for yourself.

Pattern for this vest can be found on page 137 of the book NEW ENGLAND KNITS. This book is available at YWAT. If you haven't already seen it, stop by and take a look. This vest is only one of the many lovely New England inspired patterns. 

OUR CUSTOMERS KNIT AND CROCHET
THE PRETTIEST THINGS

 This beautiful shawl was made by Sharon Fletcher out of Harmony yarn from Cascade.  The pattern is a free download from www.cascadeyarns.com.  It's called Feather, feather and Fan Shawlette.  Beautiful job Sharon. So pretty.





.

Sale Continues Through Saturday, July 23rd.

This cute beret was knitted with less than 2 skeins of Juli by Plymouth yarns. Juli is new this fall and contains Alpaca, Nylon and Polyester.

If you look closely at the sample photo below you will see that is yarn has little flecks of silver bling. The pattern for this hat, Relaxed Beret, is available at the shop.

Juli is one of the many new yarns that is included in the Yarns With A Twist Summer Sale. Pick a ticket at the end of your shopping. Tickets will be discounted from 20% to 40%. Come on in and take advantage of huge savings. You may also add 10% off already discounted yarns. All sales are final

Storewide Sale Continues through Saturday, July 23rd

Yarns With A Twist HUGE Sale July 12th through July 23rd. 

This is a sale you don't want to miss. New fall yarns have already arrived and are included. Take advantage of this opportunity to stock up for your fall, and Christmas, knitting. Not sure what to knit for winter? Check out our shop samples of hats, mittens and scarfs. Two favorites are the Brioche Hat and Mitten set (class to be held in September) and the Alpine Topper Hat. The Slouch Hat knitted with Cascade Eco Duo is coming in at third. This hat only requires one skein of Eco Duo and the pattern is available for free at the Cascade Yarn website.
Pick a ticket at the end of your shopping. Tickets will be discounted from 20% to 40%. Come on in and take advantage of huge savings. You may also add 10% off already discounted yarns. All sales are final.

Don't forget to check our blog as we showcase new yarns arriving for fall. Also, check out Yarns With A Twist on Facebook. There will be weekly surprises to take advantage of.

I hope you are having a wonderful summer and
please travel safe and have fun.

Please note: Yarns With A Twist will be CLOSED for two days.

Friday, August 5th and Saturday, August 6th.

CLASSES

Let's Make Mittens- I

Every year we hear more than one person comment “I wish I knew how to knit mittens”. Well here is your chance. “Let’s Make Mittens I” is the first of a series of mitten workshops that will be offered at Yarns With A Twist this summer and continue into fall and winter.

The first workshop is just the basics. You will make one pair of simple mittens using either the Yankee Design pattern (knitted on two straight needles) or Anne Norling's Basic Mittens on 4 Needles. Either pattern gives you the option of size and we are recommending that you use a worsted weight yarn.

This is not a learn to knit class, but a class for those who already know the basics (knit, purl, increase, decrease) and are ready to move forward.

Future “Let’s Make Mittens” Workshops will include reading charts and graphs, cables, stranding and, even brioche. Of course knitting a hat to match, or compliment, your mittens is a must. “Let’s Make Hats” workshops will also be offered.

This is a 2 part class. 1st class will cover cast on, ribbing and thumb gusset. 2nd class will cover the thumb, hand, bind off and pick up for thumb.

Please purchase your supplies prior to class day (pattern, yarn, needles etc) so we are ready to go on the first day.  Suggested yarn – Andes-- Needle size as per gauge. (Sample mittens are 5 sts = 1 inch (worsted) but using size 5 needles).

Level: Intermediate - know the basics and ready to move forward.
Date: Part 1: Saturday, July 23rd Time: 9:30 to 11:30
Date: Part 2: Saturday, July 30th Time: 9:30 to 11:30
(Additional assistance is available upon request.)
Instructor: Barb

Road Map Scarf

The Road Map Scarf is a fun and interesting project incorporating 10 squares that are each unique and each incorporating a different pattern and technique.
The Road Map Scarf class began on Friday, July 15th and will continue for at least the next two weeks. Would anyone else like to join? Always room for more.

When: Friday, July, 22nd and Friday, July, 29th - 2pm - 4 pm
Instructor: Barb
Road Map Scarf Information:
Yarn Requirements – 6 skeins (one of each color),
Size 4 – 9" straight or size to obtain gauge for main part.
Size 4 – 32” circular needle or longer or size to obtain gauge for ruffle and i-cord.
Gauge: 6 sts to 1 inch.
The pattern calls for a sport yarn. The Road Map Scarf shop sample was knitted using Mission Falls 136 – a DK weight. Whatever yarn you choose make sure you have at least 140-150 yards per skein.
Pattern is available for $8.00 as a Ravelry download: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/road-map
Patterns must be purchased online and will not be available for sale in the shop.

HUGE SALE IN JULY

I can't believe it's July already. Yarns With A Twist has decided to have a HUGE Sale July 12th through July 23rd.  Pick a ticket at the end of your shopping. Tickets will be discounted from 20% to 40%. Come on in and take advantage of huge savings. You may also add 10% off already discounted yarns. All sales are final.

Don't forget to check our blog as we showcase new yarns arriving for fall. Also, check out Yarns With A Twist on Facebook. There will be weekly surprises to take advantage of.

I hope you are having a wonderful summer and
please travel safe and have fun.

Please note: Yarns With A Twist will be CLOSED for two days.

Friday, August 5th and Saturday, August 6th.

Classes

Road Map Scarf

The Road Map Scarf is a fun and interesting project incorporating 10 squares that are each unique and each incorporating a different pattern and technique.

When: Friday, July 15th (Continuing dates will be determined at first class) 2pm - 4 pm
Instructor: Barb
Road Map Scarf Information:
Yarn Requirements – 6 skeins (one of each color),
Size 4 – 9" straight or size to obtain gauge for main part.
Size 4 – 32” circular needle or longer or size to obtain gauge for ruffle and i-cord.
Gauge: 6 sts to 1 inch.
The pattern calls for a sport yarn. The Road Map Scarf shop sample was knitted using Mission Falls 136 – a DK weight. Whatever yarn you choose make sure you have at least 140-150 yards per skein.
Pattern is available for $8.00 as a Ravelry download: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/road-map
Patterns must be purchased online and will not be available for sale in the shop.

Attention Crochet Lovers

Ongoing Crochet Basics with Sue. If interested in learning how to crochet, join this class. You will learn the basic crochet stitches and how to make a straight line.
Level: Beginner
Teacher: Sue
When: Saturday, July 16th, 1 - 3 pm

LET’S MAKE MITTENS - 1

Every year we hear more than one person comment “I wish I knew how to knit mittens”. Well here is your chance. “Let’s Make Mittens I” is the first of a series of mitten workshops that will be offered at Yarns With A Twist this summer and continue into fall and winter.

The first workshop is just the basics. You will make one pair of simple mittens using either Yankee Design pattern (this pattern is worked on two straight needles) or Anne Norling's Basic Mittens on 4 Needles (for those of prefer knitting on four needles). Either pattern gives you the option of size and we are recommending that you use a worsted weight yarn.

This is not a learn to knit class, but a class for those who already know the basics (knit, purl, increase, decrease) and are ready to move forward.
Future “Let’s Make Mittens” Workshops will include reading patterns, cables, stranding and, even brioche. Of course knitting a hat to match, or compliment, your mittens is a must. “Let’s Make Hats” workshops will also be offered.
This is a 2 part class. 1st class will cover cast on, ribbing and thumb gusset. 2nd class will cover the thumb, hand, bind off and pick up for thumb.
Please purchase your supplies prior to class day (pattern, yarn, needles etc) so we are ready to go on the first day.
Suggested yarn is Andes by Euro yarn. Needle size as per gauge. (Sample mittens are 5st = 1 inch (worsted) but using size 5 needles).
Level: Intermediate - know the basics and ready to move forward.
Date: Part 1: Saturday, July 23rd Time: 9:30 - 11:30 am
Date: Part 2: Saturday, July 30th Time: 9:30 - 11:30 am
Instructor: Barb

Quonset Cardi

This is not your mother's cardigan! Softly flowing with an eye-catching lace detail, make it either in wool or cotton. For added interest, the garment is knitted from the neck down, minimizing the number of seams. What could be better!
Sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium Large, 1X and 2X
Finished measurements: 32(36-40-44-48-52)
Material: US 7, 29" circular needle and size 7 straight needles, crochet hook, size 4.50 mm (7), 6 st markers
Gauge: 18 sts and 26 rows to 4" in stockinette stitch
Please note that gauge is very important in this sweater, so you MUST make a swatch before the class begins and use the appropriate needle size for the yarn you choose.
Level: Intermediate
When: Saturday, August 13, 9:30-11:30 AM
Instructor: Sheila
(pattern available with purchase of yarn)

VOLAN

Whether dressing up your jeans jacket or adding flair to dressier attire, Volan offers endless possibilities for fashionably warding off the chill of cool evenings or air conditioning. This versatile new design by Christiane is something between a scarf, shawl and wrap with a crescent shape that allows for many styling options.
Volan has double shaped ruffles on both edges and a two colored garter stitch body. Innovative construction techniques eliminate the need for short rows and picking up stitches.
When: Wednesday, August 24th, 7 - 9 pm
Instructor: Christiane

Sweater made by Lin Elliott out of Encore Bulky.

She doesn't remember what pattern she used
but was very happy with the results as was her granddaughter.

Martha Gerling used her stash yarn from Yarns With A Twist to create this

beauitful baby blanket for a baby due any day.

The afghan is called Rambing Rose by Cottage Creations.

Linda Breault made this adorable hat from one skein of Kauni from their

pattern called Lake Drive Hat both of which we have in the shop.
|Linda said she had fun making this hat and we think it looks great on her.



Happy Fourth of July.
Have fun, be safe and keep on knitting.

Yarns With A Twist is on Facebook. If you have not already found the page on Facebook and clicked on the "like" button don't wait. New messages are posted often during the week. Read about what is new in the shop. Take advantage of shop specials that will only be posted on Facebook.

New Colors of Trekking XXL.

• 75% Superwash Wool - 25% Nylon
• 459 yards per 100 gram ball
• 2-3 mm (approx. US 0-2) needles
• Approx. 7.5 sts per inch
(Sock Pattern - Diagonal Cross-Rib Socks by Ann Budd
from Favorite Socks 25 Timeless Designs from Interweave)