Knitting

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Sad to say, it's time for this column to bind off

You have probably enjoyed knitting your project, but now you are finished. Maybe the boring dishcloths just need some extra pizzazz.

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Second Leapman book challenges imagination

Most people try to make some New Year's resolutions at this time of year. I love the idea that you get to begin fresh: a new page on a clean calendar, a new month full of possibilities, and a whole year of days, weeks and months stretching way out into the future.

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Learn to master knitting with a guild membership

It may seem early to make predictions for the new year, but I can see that 2009 will be a very good year for traditional knitting and serious knitters.

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Dress up holiday garments with glitter

The holiday season is a wonderful time for dressier garments that glitter. The Christmas lights on the tree and the warm glow of the fireplace or a few candles set the mood so much better when you sparkle just a little bit too.

Artistry of knitting relies on inventiveness

A few weeks ago I asked my readers to debate this question: Is knitting a craft or an art? I have gotten interesting responses. In addition, I understand that the question has been debated in many knitting venues around town. I was hoping to light a spark

Knitters go for gold during Olympics; classes, TV show target crocheters

Knitters unofficially joined Olympic competition this year. Canadian Stephanie Pearl-McPhee of Yarn Harlot blog fame decided to challenge knitters to create teams and rise to the occasion of world-class excellence. That challenge sparked interest in Alask

New magazine targets youthful, stylish knitters

A recent survey by the Craft Yarn Council of America found that the age group most interested in knitting and crocheting was 25 to 34. Participation in that age bracket jumped from 13 percent in 2002 to nearly 33 percent in 2004, more than a 150

Knitting is not just for women -- and never was

When you think of someone knitting, what image comes to mind? Is it one of a sweet, little old granny rocking back and forth in her wooden rocker while she deftly plies the yarn into something wonderful to wear? Do you see young athletic teens knitting an

African knitwear designs pay homage to black culture

Since 1926 Americans have set aside time to celebrate black history, first called Negro History Week and finally Black History Month. Educator and historian Carter G. Woodson chose the second week of February as the perfect time to focus on the culture, h

Knitters, crocheters can show off talents to aid adoption agency

I recently had an opportunity to talk with Marilyn Moreno, the program director for Catholic Social Services in Anchorage, about its adoption program. I learned that it is very underfunded yet continues to serve a real need in our community. Mari

Local yarn shops come to the rescue

Today is a different day for lovers of yarn. Many more companies are competing for the dollars you have to spend on yarn and supplies. Some of these companies have added their own labels, and most have added new types of yarn to their collections. The cho

Put needles to work spreading a little peace this season

During this holiday season, I have been doing a lot of knitting while I watch television. I knit away and watch movies or the ever-changing world events and local news. Sadly, the recent world news included a local Alaskan, Ron Schulz, a kidnap victim in

Only five knitting days left before Christmas; try mittens

These cute, festive mittens make lovely gift card or cash holders. They can be used for napkin pockets too. Happy holidays!

This year, knitters, take it easier

I would imagine that knitters everywhere are pretty much like me: busy knitting gifts for everyone on the list. Why is it that I honestly believe I must give something I knit?

Check washing instructions before purchasing yarn

Over the past two weeks I have given you important information and tips about reading the labels on yarn skeins. Labels tell the nuts and bolts of what you can expect from your yarn purchase and help ensure the finished project will be what you want.

Symbols and other label information help knitters make yarn substitutions

Q. Are there rules for substituting yarns? -- Charlotte Cable

Yarn labels can answer many knitting questions

Yarn labels can be interesting reading. As I mentioned last week, the success of your knitting project can be as easy as information found on the label.

Be sure the yarn matches the project

Getting started with a knitting project is often hard. It can be overwhelming to pick a yarn for your favorite pattern. Newer exotic yarns on the market just seem to complicate things more.

Knitters can help support servicemen and families

I have often thought how wonderful it is to be a part of a group that loves the timeless art of knitting. In our own ways, we knitters have all found the fascination that each new project holds. We know the wonder of creating and the joy of wearing our wo

Needle tricks perfect for Halloween treats

The weather is getting cold, and the trees are looking bare. Little goblins will be knocking at your door soon. Why not knit something to give them? Small projects fit neatly into your knitting bag and into your busy fall schedule. Party favors for Hallow

Finishing touches important in knitted sweater

Many a knitter stitches his or her way through the pieces of a sweater and then realizes those parts do not a sweater make. Now what? If this has happened to you, don't feel alone.