March 2006 Newsletter

Hi All! We are so happy to be back on the web and in communication with you again. In February our hosting provider had problems and we had to find a new provider. As a result we were out of service for about 2 weeks, and then, to top that, we lost the email messages that were stored on the server! So, if you sent us a note and didn’t get a response that’s why……please try us now and we will get back to you! Here’s just a few of the new items available for you now at River City Yarns. Just arrived today! Glass knitting needles from Namaste! Namaste Needles offer undeniable beauty paired with unmatched performance. These stunning tools are made of extremely durable borosilicate glass and are intended for everyday use. Each pair is handcrafted one at a time and must meet the strictest of quality standards. You can choose from Sphere, Dots or Cone Styles in sizes 5mm thru 10mm - $45.00 per pair Let your Namaste needles travel safely and in style with a rock solid yet highly fashionable hard Shell case. Even protects your needles mid-project. Just clamp down and your needles and project are safe. These needle shells accommodate multiple pairs and come in several fantastic fabrics. $25 per case In January we introduced Lantern Moon hand made needles, silk cases and bamboo totes. This company works directly with their producers to provide income, education and self-reliance to Vietnamese women and their families. These items sold out so quickly that many of you did not have a chance to purchase. We ordered more and now have a good selection of needles, both in straights and now double pointed sets as well as more silk needle cases. And, for summer we have colorful bamboo tote bags, in two different styles and 6 great colors. http://lanternmoon.com/RT.asp Here is a capelet pattern that is pure designer, yet easy to knit. We completed our store sample in a few evenings. It’s a great design from Tahki-Stacy Charles, the brand that is synonymous with superior quality and fashion. This capelet hugs the shoulders, curves softly around the arms and has a soft flowing, looped hemline. Four color coordinated yarns, Ziggy, Rialto, Micio and Merino Cable are included in the kit, along with the S. Charles Collezione pattern book. One size fits all - $127. Workshops – Teaching workshops takes special skills and lots of patience. We are extremely proud of all our instructional staff. Their enthusiasm is infectious and they are the source of the many new classes that are offered. On top of that, they are very talented, but also humble enough to continue to learn – often from you, their students. One of our instructors, Vivian Cloutier, has just received her knitting instructor certification from the Craft Yarn Council (CYC) of America. This designation is significant because the CYC puts instructors thru the paces, asking them to knitting up numerous samples, teach practice classes and explain various knitting techniques and tips. Only when they are satisfied with the instructor’s knowledge, instructional style and their actual work, do they issue certification. Congratulations to Vivian! Sign up now for beginner and refresher knitting classes. We are offering lessons Saturday mornings (9 – 11 AM) and Thursday afternoons from 4:30 to 6:30. Brush up on your knitting techniques, meet new friends, and make great projects. Six weeks of instruction - $75. Weeks 1 thru 4 are related to technique and in weeks 5 & 6 we support you in a project of your choice. Coming in March and April - Felted Slippers Workshop, Felted Handbag Workshop, Beaded Bracelet, Moebius Scarf Workshop, Beginner and Intermediate Sweater Classes. Call for dates, prices and material lists. Other Interesting Items If you want to join a knit group – try the one at the Stanley Milner Library. This group meets the 1st Friday of each month from Noon to 2 PM. All stitcher’s welcome. Do you knit on holidays? Spend hours thinking about what yarn and project you should take on vacation? You are not alone. Check out the thrummed mitts that Judy made on her Mexican holiday. Send me your vacation pictures, knitting tips, favorite websites, etc for our future newsletters. Happy knitting! Barb, Sheila, Marcene and Vivian River City Yarns www.rivercityyarns.com 780-477-YARN (9276)