June 2008

Twice a year, we join your local yarn shop owners and attend an industry trade show fondly referred to as “TNNA.”  TNNA stands for The National Needlework Association.  The show was held in California in mid-January and showcased the Spring/Summer Collections of fibers and yarns from the manufacturers, as well as new products and patterns.

Here is a trend that I saw on the floor … new sock yarns, new sock patterns, new sock needles, new sock books, and MORE about socks.  Heard about Sock Wars?  Sock Wars II actually made the front page of the Wall Street Journal one day in December 2007.  Round III starts soon and SWTC is the sponsor.  Learn all about how you can participate in this issue of Knit ‘N Style.  This is not a competition for the faint of heart!

I did something last weekend that I haven’t done in a very long time.  I participated in a sock-knitting class.  One of my local yarn shops had a Sunday afternoon class (perfect for me), and cleverly scheduled the three sessions on alternating Sundays.  They somehow knew I could not compromise the Super Bowl or the Knit Out in Minnesota.  It was nice of the shop to give us two weeks (instead of one) to get our homework done.  Yes, I’ve knit socks but never on one very long circular needle.

The point of sharing my adventure is that you need to make time to take classes.  It’s important to see what others are working on.  You won’t miss out on something really awesome and you will be inspired.  You should consider taking classes (especially when you think you know everything) because I guarantee that you will learn at least one new thing.  You also support your shop and your teachers.  Besides, classes get you out of the house!  Now if they only had another class to get the other sock finished …

Until next time, enjoy your knitting!