Friday, December 31, 2010

Shop Hop Visit from Kim Reynolds of XRX Books


We had a surprise visit from Kim Reynolds aka Some Bunny's Love yesterday. She is the Director of Social Media and Personal Relations for XRX Books (publisher of Knitter's Magazine and various books and the driving force behind the Stitches Expos). We had a wonderful evening with her and we hope to see her again very soon!


BTW, the digital edition of Knitter's Magazine K100 is available for free online.

Monday, December 27, 2010

Were you on Santa's nice list this year?

Did you receive a knit or crochet gift from a fellow crafter? Maybe someone gave you a fantastic knit or yarn themed gift or some great tools. We'd love to hear about them! We've started a discussion on the Ravelry forum so you can show off those gifts. Click here to join in!

New Year's Hours

We will be closing at 2:00 on December 31st and will be closed on New Year's Day. We will reopen at noon on Monday, January 3rd with our normal hours.

Happy New Year!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Yarn Camp Sign-ups Begin 1/3!!

Yarn Camp sign-ups begin on January 3rd!

Yarn Camp will be the weekend of February 18-20. Come join us for a relaxing weekend of knitting, crocheting, or spinning.

Lodging and meals for the entire weekend is $78.00 and Day rates (including meals) is $45.00. A daily rate without meals is available, just give us a call. The full weekend meals include Friday supper, Saturday brunch and supper, and Sunday brunch.

Reservations are required by February 10th. Please make your checks payable to the Washington County 4-H Center and mail them to:

A Likely Yarn
213 Pecan St.
Abingdon, VA 24210

Need additional details or have a question for us? Give us a call at 276-628-2143.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Need A Last Minute Gift?

Do you have a knitter or crocheter on your gift list that you've been scratching your head about what to give them this Christmas?

Not to worry! We have Gift Cards!

Stop by today to pick up a gift card in any amount for that special yarn enthusiast in your life!

Monday, December 20, 2010

Christmas Hours

We will be closing at 2:00 on Friday, December 24 and will be closed on Christmas day. We will reopen at noon on Monday, December 27 with our regular hours.

We wish everyone a very merry Christmas!!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Addi Clicks - Lace, Bamboo, and the Original Clicks

The ultimate knitter's gift is a set of interchangeable needles and we've got them in three different varieties.

The original Addi Clicks come with 10 pairs of tips (US size 4-15), 3 cords (24", 32" and 40"), and a connector in a black case. These are nickel plated and are just like our favorite Addi Turbos.

The Lace Clicks are not just for lace knitters! These tips are nickel plated and extra sharp. The Lace Clicks come with 8 pairs of tips (US size 4-11), 5 cords (16", 20", 24", 32" and 40"), and a connector in a brown case. These are similar to the Addi Lace Turbo needles with the exception of being nickel plated. Those that have skin reactions to brass may find these needles are right up their alley; and no tarnishing!

The Bamboo Clicks are perfect for those knitters that prefer the feel of bamboo over metal needles. This set comes with 8 pairs of tips (US size 4-11), 3 cords (24", 32" and 40") and a connector in a green case with a leaf print lining.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

December's Yarn Of The Month


Enjoy 15% off any green yarn all month long!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Special Offers from CEY and Interweave

Interweave has a special offer running until December 31, 2010. We have coupons available for a $5.00 rebate on any purchase of Interweave products. All you have to do is send in your receipt showing your purchase between Nov 1 and Dec 31 with the coupon and Interweave will send you five bucks!

Classic Elite Yarns wants to reward you for shopping at your favorite LYS. If you spend $40 on yarn, books or patterns between Nov 1 and Dec 31 and send your itemized receipt along with your address, email address, and phone number to Classic Elite Yarns they will send you a recent pattern book and three mini skeins.

Stop by for complete information on both offers.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Lookin' For A Gift For the Knitter In Your Life?


We have Franklin Habit's 2011 Calendar: Stash of Knitting Cartoons that is a full year of hilarious knitting cartoons..... Annnnd, it's currently 20% off!!

Ladies Watch Found

A lovely young man found a ladies watch in our parking lot. If you have recently lost a watch and believe this may be yours please call us. Must be able to describe the watch. 276-628-2143

Monday, November 22, 2010

Thanksgiving Hours

We will be closing at 2 pm on Wednesday and closed on Thursday but will reopen on Friday with our normal hours in observance of Thanksgiving.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

20% Off Notions Sale Nov 18-20

We're Having A Notions Sale!


Thursday, November 18 through Saturday, November 20 enjoy 20% off all our Bags, T-Shirts, Cases, Buttons, Creekwater Alpaca Socks, Shawl Pins, Gita Maria accessories, and of course Notions!



Recent arrivals, that are included in the sale, are our Knit Happy notions cases, our new selection of handmade row counter bracelets and the Sig'nits beads.



All our fantastic bags are on sale - Offhand Designs, Jordana Paige, Daisy Muir, Atenti, Nantucket (we now have lilac), Ukush and an assortment of beautiful baskets made in Ghana. The Frabjous Fibers notion and needle cases, Nancy's Knit Knacks notion cases and Fiber Spheres are also on sale.



Also, don't forget that our November Yarn of the Month is any yarn from Great Adirondack Yarn Company and they are 15% off all month long!


This sale does not include yarn, books, magazines, patterns, or hooks and needles.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Do You Knit Happy?


We sure hope you do! We have travel coffee mugs, post-it note books, and notions cases with the adorable little Knit Happy sheep. These little goodies make perfect gifts for yourself or the knitter on your shopping list.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Learn to make Tiny Christmas Ornaments


Join Jane this Saturday to learn to make tiny Christmas Ornaments. What could be more adorable than a Christmas tree decorated with tiny socks and tiny hats! These ornaments also make great gifts!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Have You Met Feza?


Feza is a new line of yarn that has just arrived here at A Likely Yarn. Talk about fun!! Feza is ready for a night out on the town. Currently we have a Feza Trunk Show that includes a chunky super soft wool acrylic blend called Cyprus Mohair, a sparkly acrylic & mohair blend called Festival, and two self striping/patterning yarns that have to be seen to be believed called Premier and Dazzle. The trunk show will be on display until November 10th.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Learn to make Mittens!


We've started to have a good frost on in the mornings around here which means that it must be cold enough for mittens. There's nothing like slipping your icy paws into a pair of warm woolly mitten.

Join Karen this Saturday to learn how to make your own pair of mittens! After you make yourself a pair, they make great quick knit gifts when you're in a pinch for a Christmas gift.

Class is Saturday from 1:00-3:00 and is $15.00 plus materials.

Monday, November 1, 2010

15% November Yarn Of The Month


All month long enjoy 15% off November's Yarn of the Month which is any yarn by Great Adirondack Yarn Company. Chubby, Potluck, Saratoga, Sierra, Kiki, and many more!! This also includes the Zypher Shawl Kits.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Christmas Knitting Show & Tell

There is just a mere two months until Christmas day! We would love to know what you are knitting for gifts this year.

I know gift knitting can strike fear and panic in the knitting world but there is still plenty of time so don’t start pulling all-night knitting frenzies just yet! Just breathe *inhale, exhale* repeat.


We would love to know what you are knitting as gifts. On Ravelry, you can most likely post your super secret gifts without the knowledge of your family and friends, unless of course you are knitting for a fellow knitter.
So lets have a Christmas Gift Show and Tell!! Even if it is something that you haven’t cast on yet, you are right in the middle of knitting, or a fantastic finished project; We Want To See Them!

We've started a Ravelry discussion for our Show & Tell so head on over and tell us what you're up to!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Huge Sale Extended!

Our Huge Sale has been extended to October 15 & 16 - 10% off all non-clearance in stock yarn and 40% off many yarns including every item in our sale room! We will be open our regular hours 10-5 both days.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Huge Sale October 7, 8, & 9 (Thur-Sat)

The cool fall air sure has me in the mood for knitting! There is nothing like spending a cool autumn evening sitting in a cozy chair with my knitting in hand, an afghan (handmade of course) across my lap, and a cup of hot tea. Here is a little something that is sure to spark your fall knitting:


We are having a Huge Sale on October 7, 8 & 9 (Thur-Sat).


All non-clearance in stock yarn is 10% off.


The following yarns (in addition to a few others from our current sale room stock) will be 40% off the Original price:


Mirasol Sampa
Mirasol Hacho
Debbie Bliss Tweed
Noro Silk Garden
Lite Noro Kureyon Sock
Online Sock (all lines)
Kollage Creamy
Kollage Hope (DK & Worsted)
Brown Sheep Superwash Worsted & Bulky
Euro Socos
Galway NEP
Katia Paper
Queensland Haze
Plymouth Kudo
Knitting Fever Sweetness

Come by the shop before all your favorite yarns are snatched up!

Friday, October 1, 2010

October Yarn Of The Month - CEY's Woodland


October's Yarn of the Month is Classic Elite Yarn's Woodland. Get 10% off Woodland all month long! Woodland is 65% wool and 35% nettles and approx. 131 yards in a 50 gram ball. The guage is 5-5.5 stitches to the inch on size US 6 (4 mm) needles. We have it in 12 colors: Carnat Red, Violet, Prussian Blue, Braken, Orange, Ivory, Silver, Ash, Charcoal, Fern, Sunshine, and Celestial.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Baby Surprise Jacket Knit Along Starting October 12th


In honor of Elizabeth Zimmerman's 100th birthday we're doing a Baby Surprise Jacket (or child or adult) knit along. We'll be starting on October 12th and meeting again on the 19th & 26th. Meetings will be from 1-3. We'll discuss yarn choices and cast on at the first meeting.
Photo courtesy of FunFairieGirl.


Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Abingdon's Midtown Madness

Friday & Saturday October 8 & 9 and 15 & 16* from 4:00-8:00 come hangout in Midtown Abingdon. Parking is available behind St. Thomas Episcopal Church on Park Street. Free Trolley pick-up from the church parking lot and the trolley will be stopping at all participating businesses from 4:00-8:30.

*Oct. 16 the trolley will run from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm.

Free Fall Fun! Refreshments, Music, Demonstrations, Tours, and Local Artists.

The following businesses, located between Partington Place (Barter Theater) and Deadmore Street (Zazzy'Z), are participating with something special happening at each place.

Camella's Remember When - Tea & Scone Tasting
Wolf Hills Brewing Co. - Beer Tasting
The Shabby Garden Shop - Refreshments
Trail Cafe - Irish & English Pub Fare
Wines of Distinction - Wine Tasting
A Likely Yarn
SissyGirl & Company
Persnickety
Kegley & Company - Refreshments
Forget-Me-Not
A Tailor's Lodging - Refreshments
Barter Theater & Barter Cafe - Refreshments
Zazzy's - Refreshments
The Mary Connally Penn House - Special Tours
Holston Mountain Artisans - Refreshments
Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Shop - Refreshments
The Gallery @ Barr Photographics - Refreshments

Friday, September 24, 2010

WWSIP Day Recap

Last Saturday was certainly a beautiful day to be outside spinning! Here's a photo of Karen and Carmen spinning on the front porch.

Did you do anything special on World Wide Spin In Public Day? We'd love to hear about it!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

World Wide Spin In Public Day Saturday September 18, 2010


World Wide Spin In Public Day is this Saturday, September 18! What do you have planned?? We would love to hear about your public spinning adventures. Tell us what you're up to over on our Ravelry Forum.


To prepare for WWSIP Day there is a Drop Spinning 101 class on Thursday 9/16 from 1-3 and again on Saturday 9/18 from 1-3. Call or drop by the shop for more information 276-628-2143.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Frabjous Fibers Sari Ribbon


Tuesday, a box arrived that was just filled with the most beautiful colors! We now have six five colors of Frabjous Fibers Sari Ribbon in stock. One color (Multi) sold out this morning! We have Gypsy, Coral Salmon, Nomad, Fuchsia, and Black Cherry. It is 50 grams, approximately 25 yards of 10-20 mm wide ribbon made from "hand cut strips of reclaimed silk fabrics sewn end to end".

Friday, September 10, 2010

Wrap Me Up Knit Along


Join us for the Wrap Me Up Knit Along starting on Friday October 8 from 11-1. We will meet every other week (10/22, 11/5, 11/19, and 12/10). There will also be an additional meeting at Yarn Camp on 10/29.
Come by or call the shop for more details: 276-628-2143
Photo courtesy of Knitting At Noon.


Thursday, September 9, 2010

Nancy's Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Swift/Skein Winder & Ball Winder

We've had the Nancy's Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Ball Winder in the shop for quite awhile now and we all love it. For me personally, I have a small plastic ball winder at home and sometimes (ok, most of the time) prefer to wind my yarn at the shop instead of at home because I love the ball winder that much. It makes such beautiful cakes of yarn and flows so smoothly.




We now have it's partner in crime, the Nancy's Knit Knacks Swift/Skein Winder with yardage counter. This fancy gadget pulls double duty because not only can it be used to make a skein into a ball but it can be used to make a ball into a skein.


I used a left over ball of Malabrigo Worsted to demonstrate how to use the skein winder/swift and ball winder in the following two videos.

This video demonstrates how to make a ball into a skein:


At the end the counter had clicked 48 times and my swift posts were set at the two yard markers which gave me a total of 96 yards.



This video demonstrates how to use the swift and ball winder to create a center pull ball.



I love this pair of fantastic tools! As a spinner I love that I'm able to accurately calculate the yardage of one of my hand spun yarns by winding it into a skein right off the bobbin, then wind it into a center pull ball and get to knitting quickly.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Fair Isle Beret


The Fair Isle Beret class is scheduled for Friday September 24th & October 8th from 1-3 pm. Come learn the Fair Isle technique with Delita. The beret is made with one solid colored yarn and one variegated yarn which will make you look like a color work pro!

Call or come by the shop to sign up or get more information: 276-628-2143

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Felting for Crocheters Class


Dear Crocheters,
Felting isn't just for knitters!
Your Fellow Crocheter,
Cassie

Come by on Friday September 10th to get started on a felted pumpkin that is a perfect addition to any yarn crafter's fall decor. This quick project may sprout many more pumpkins before you know it! The class meets on 9/10 and 9/17 from 11-1.

Call the shop to sign up or for more information. 276-628-2143

Friday, September 3, 2010

Entrelac Scarf Class


September 11 from 10-12 am come learn the Entrelac knitting technique with Karen. You'll need any long print yarn such as Liberty Wool, Ty-Dy cotton, or Noro.

Also, be on the look out for the upcoming book from Gwen Bortner titled Entree to Entrelac. "Entrée to Entrelac is the first book to be published in nearly two decades dedicated solely to the often misunderstood technique of entrelac." (from knitability.com)

Call or come by the shop to sign up or find out more information. 276-628-2143

Thursday, September 2, 2010

A Big Thanks To Our Crocheters!

We had many wonderful submissions for the Smithsonian Community Coral Reef Project. Thanks to everyone who submitted a piece! You can visit our pieces, and many, many more, at the Museum of Natural History between October and April.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Abingdon & A Likely Yarn In The Knoxville News!

On 8/29 an article by Gay Lyons was in the Knoxville News titled - Short vacation idea close to Knoxville: Abingdon's historic district. You can read the full article here. A Likely Yarn was mentioned in the article and we're super happy about!

Go Read It! Then plan a weekend trip to come see us, even if you're a local you can still act like you're on vacation.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Alpaca Roving

We now have alpaca roving in three colors from Pumpkintown Primitives. Spring (shown), Autumn, and Black in 2 oz and 8 oz bumps. We've nearly sold out of the black and we've only had it in stock for a week. Hurry in before it's all gone! I spun up a 2 oz bump on Wednesday morning and I felt like all I had to do was treadle. I swear it spun itself!


Not a spinner but love hand spun yarn? Not to worry, we also have hand spun alpaca yarn in 3 natural colors all named after the alpacas it came from; Honey Bell, Valerie, and Adora.
BTW, Sit & Spin is tomorrow from 1-3. Grab your spindles & wheels and spin on in!

Monday, August 9, 2010

Gray Squirrel, Gray Squirrel Shake Your Bushy Tail...

That's the little diddy that we used to have to sing as 4-H campers if we wore our hats in the dinning hall. Though, I'm sure Sam won't make you sing if you were wearing, say, a fair isle knitted tam.

Yarn Camp will be at the Washington County 4-H Center on October 29, 30, & 31. We'll begin taking reservations on August 16 so check your calendars now! Spaces fill up fast so don't dally!

For all three days & two nights, including 4 meals and housing it is $78. If you're not planning to stay the night at the 4-H center and would prefer to have dinner at one of Abingdon's many restaurants the full weekend price is $45. Daily rates are available as well if you don't think you'll be able to spend all three days with us. Call the shop for details 276-628-2143

No matter if you learned yesterday or have been doing yarn crafts for 50 years, come knit, crochet, spin, needle felt, or what ever yarny activity strikes your fancy.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

10% Off August Yarn Of The Month

This month's yarn of the month is Handpainted Knitting Yarns Sock Yarn! Hurry in and grab it up at 10% off before we sell out!!

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Crochet Dress By Ana Vega

One of our lovely customers has designed a crochet dress that can be found in the September issue of Crochet! Magazine. We're all so proud of you Ana!


Drum Roll Please........

The winner of the Get Your Knits Virginia Yarn Crawl $50 gift certificate is......

Jennifer Kelly!!

Congratulations Jennifer!

Friday, July 30, 2010

Call To Crocheters!

We're making pieces for the Smithsonian Museum's Community Coral Reef project! Patterns are available upon request. Finished pieces are due by August 25. Feel free to bring in your pieces early, as I will be setting up a display before we ship them out.

The pieces can be made in any color and any size.
Check the Smithsonian's Website to see all the details of the project.

The crochet coral reef will be displayed in the National Museum of Natural History from October 16, 2010 to April 24, 2011.

Here's a small sample from Beverly.

Any and all projects will be a great help no matter how small or large!

Monday, July 26, 2010

Knits Men Want

Have you seen the new book Knits Men Want by Bruce Weinstein? One of our customers, Jennifer K., says that the reversible cable scarf in this book can save her marriage! Well, we're sure happy to see a happy hubby.

Do you have a picky hubby? Check out Knits Men Want here at the shop and you'll likely find something that he'll finally LOVE. The sizing in this book is fantastic and range to fit a man built like a linebacker or as skinny as a flag pole. The stories in it are hilarious too, you could pick it up just for reading material.

What do you do with left over sock yarn?


Sharon has a fantastic solution to use all those little left over balls of sock yarn. She made a vest! Look at all those fun colors! Nice work Sharon!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Gettin' My Rita On

  Or Tammy  or Loretta.  I'm getting ready for my 49th high school reunion in a little dusty farm town in West TX.  No, I didn't lose the 20 pounds (I don't think any of my friends did, either!) but I've reconnected with Ferlin and Merle and we'll have a big time.  I might even bring you a tumble weed!  Meantime, my faithful crew will be glad to help you with anything you need in the way of yarn, classes, notions, needles, books or anything else you can think of.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Want Soft Smooth Hands?

The Lavishea lotion bars arrived this morning and are quickly scooting out the door! We have 7 scents and 2 sizes to choose from including an unscented variety. The lotion bars are made from soy, shea butter, and skin-safe fragrance.


I rubbed my hands down at noon today and over 5.5 hours later and several hand washings later, my hands are still soft as can be.


The best part, you can pick it up mid-row, rub it in, and then keep in knitting because it isn't greasy and doesn't leave your hands feeling tacky like some lotions can.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Lamb's Pride Bulky

  From bulky little sheep, I suppose.  Every color of the rainbow in 85% wool, 15% mohair.  Felts well, a bit softer than some and has a beautiful haze from the mohair.   Both the worsted and the bulky are good choices for the Christmas stockings you're making.  (Um...you are making stockings, aren't you???)
  Only just about 5 months 'til Christmas, so get hopping!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

AK Podcaster coming to A Likely Yarn July 20

  Dani Cortez of the Craft Culture Podcast is coming to see YOU Tuesday, July 20th at the shop!!  She's from Anchorage AK and has included Abingdon in her east coast summer tour of shops.  She'll be in the area both Monday and Tuesday, gathering information for a book she's writing about knitters (individual and groups) and the "why" of the craft.
  Do come 3-8pm on the 20th.....do bring knitter friends...Knit 'n' Network...what could be better????

Friday, July 9, 2010

Beginning Crochet

  Yes, Virginia, we DO have afternoon classes.  1-3pm, Tuesdays July 13 and 20th, Beverly will be doing the chain thing from beginning through 2 projects.  We have 3 more slots, so call soon to register...276-628-2143.
It's possible that an alternate 2nd meeting can be arranged.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Christmas in July


Sure it's hot and humid now, but  just wait!  Get in the spirit with a 3-session (starts July 17th) Christmas stocking plus 2 hour workshops on ornaments, animals, needlefelted embellishments, table "stuff" (napkin rings, runners, wine bottle cozies), "Round and Round" techniques for hats, fingerless mitts, felted baskets...you get the idea.  They'll go on through the holidays, so let us know if there's something you want to learn.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Counting Down..

  It's almost that time of the year!  Not just the holidays but lots of other schedules..
Depending on when you read this, there's
  CHRISTMAS.....27 weeks
  HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL...5 weeks
  YARN CAMP (October 29th weekend)....18 weeks
  3RD BIRTHDAY PARTY.....50 weeks
 Lots of good ideas down here or we'll be glad to help you with your own.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

TO MARKET, TO MARKET
  Carmen and the Heart of the Highlands Girls put their collective heads and hands together and came up with a rainbow of shopping bags!
  Join us for the next meeting (July 6th) 6p, here at the shop for "Back to Basics".....and fun's the most basic of all!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

We're 2....and holding!

Happy Birthday to us!!  Who knew waaaaay back there in June 2008 what was in store for The Little Shop That Could....and Did!
  Come by Saturday after you've done your Knitting in Public.....birthday cake at 2p and a 20% sale on all regularly priced yarn!

Merry Christmas.....almost

Hard to say which is better looking....the present or the wrapper.  Sorry, Kristine's got the last of this particular model but you can certainly help yourself (or any number of loved ones) to that gorgeous sweater.  Santa can pick from 13 colors of Kathmandu's wool/silk/cashmere blend and call you NICE!!!

Friday, June 4, 2010

Sheep and Chicks and Ducks Better Scurry!

Come this Saturday, June 5th (1-3) for Beh-eh-eh-erly Eason's 3-D Needle Felting Class.  Our prototype is a curly sheep with beady little black eyes, but who knows what you might come up with!  $40 covers materials and tools, instruction for one session and a great time.  Class limited to 5 students...get your registration in soon.

WE LIKE 'EM, WE LOVE 'EM, WE WANT SOME MORE OF 'EM..
All those wonderful people with those cute little hookey sticks! Greatest people in the world! We have beautiful bright color, high sheen Italian cotton, all the way to cotton in both cream and white in several weights. Plus an entire shelf of books of patterns, trims, techniques and more!
And when you're finished with the "just for crocheters", there's an entire shop of every weight, fiber and color yarn you can imagine. Arm yourself well or we'll just love all over you!!!!
Posted by Picasa

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

NIGHT CREATURES REJOICE!!!

Morticia’s not stirring about but we have more and more folks venturing out to join our evening classes. Troop Knitting shares Tuesday nights with Heart of the Highlands Knitting Guild and beginning knitting or crocheting classes. Thursday nights are for Chix with Stix, a Gypsy Shawl KAL and occasional classes.

We’ve just expanded the parking lot, so there’s plenty of room for everything from SUVs to brooms….but all others “will be toad”!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

ONCE UPON A PEONY…

When we bought this brave little house, peonies and some sort of oddball daffodil were just beginning to come up. We carefully dug them up for safekeeping and sure enouch, they’re back with us. The house was built in 1900 and I wouldn’t risk saying these are “original” but they’re beautiful and fragrant and I like to think of all the changes they might have seen in this neighborhood.Posted by Picasa

Sunday, May 9, 2010

World Wide Knitting and Happy Birthday

  Gosh!  How much fun can we stand???  "World-wide knitting" observance has grown to an entire week, June 12th-19th.  Take it to the doctor's office, play practice, to the movies (but PLEASE not to live theatre), when you're the car PASSENGER, your favorite social hangouts.....anywhere folks can see what fun knit and crochet activities are!
  The last Saturday (June 19th) give it one last good effort, then join us to celebrate A Likely Yarn's 3rd Birthday!  We opened June 3rd, 2008, RE-opened June 1, 2009 and here we are primed and ready for another great year.  Birthday cake and lemonade at 2pm, 213 Pecan St., just across the tracks from the Creeper Trail parking lot and almost-next to the VA Creeper Trail Bike Shop.

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Yarn of the Month....Katia's Paper Yarn

  "Scissors, rock, PAPER!!!"  Yeaaaaa!!  We win!!  And the prize is......summer-cute, summer-quick sunhats, market bags, coasters and placemats.  Best of all, it's machine-washable so there's no worry if you get caught in a sudden shower, a water-gun fight or just want to wash and re-shape it.  128 yards, we like it best on a U.S. 10.5 needle or an "E" hook.....and here's the REAL "best of all"!!  For the whole month of May it's 10% of all the skeins, all the colors you can carry home!!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Wheelin' to the Market

 Some of the nicest guys in town run the bike shop next to us....VA Creeper Trail Bike Shop.  Whether you want to ride the whole Trail (34 miles into NC), shuttle up to White Top and coast down or just peddle around town, Jerry and Gary will find you the perfect bike.  Call them at 276-676-2552 (or check for information at vacreepertrailbikeshop.com) to reserve by the hour or the day.  They also do awesome repairs!!
  From the Creeper Trail parking lot (just across the tracks from A Likely Yarn), you can ride west to the Farmer's Market (opening THIS SATURDAY!!  April 17th!) Saturday mornings or Tuesday afternoons, 3-6.  You can ride Park Street east to the new home of Holston Mountain Artisans (formerly The Cave House).  And, when your wanderings are finished, join us at A Likely Yarn for yarns of Washington County and the world, tools, notions, patterns, classes...or just come visit.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Helen's Nest

  No, not the one where Ed and the dogs hang out but something for upwardly mobile birds to dream about.  We have a call in to "Bodacious Nests" (What?  There's not?  Well, there soon will be!!) and realtors should be calling soon!  (Eggs courtesy of Jane and not included as part of the deal.)
  Beverly's needle-felted chick is the perfect mascot.  The perfect peep for the occasion!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Yarn of the Month

  We all like surprises and, beginning early each month, we'll announce a featured yarn.  10% off any amount, any color of this yarn for the whole month for in-store stock.  Some novelty, some basic....all beautiful!
  April's spotlight is on Classic Elite's PREMIERE...a 50-50 blend of pima cotton and tencel with a beautiful drape and sheen.  At 108 yards per 50 grams, this hand-washable delight is perfect for summer tanks and shrugs, shawls, children's items.  It'll be love at first sight!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Artfully speaking...

...we're very happy and proud to co-sponsor "Seasonings", next show up at Abingdon's Arts Depot.  Margaret Gregg's colorful fabric collages and textile constructions revolve around seasons, gardens and the work of our hands  The exhibit will be up through Memorial Day weekend and will make a great place to take weekend visitors.  Opening Reception is Sunday, April 18 (2-4pm) and regular hours are 11-3, Thursday through Saturday.

Monday, April 12, 2010

New Kids Coming to Town

 Malabrigo and Great Adirondacks shipped new beautiful yarns to us late last week, so they should be here at least by the end of the week.  And there's soon to be some new delights on the shelf....Noro's Kureyon sock yarn is headed our way in about 8 different colorways.  Plenty for a complete pair of socks and Noro's famous vibrant colors will keep you happy all the way from cuff to toe (or the other way 'round),

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Knitting for the Troops

 Hum a chorus or two of "Over There" or maybe "It's A Long Way to Tipperary" to get yourself in the mood and join us the 2nd Tuesday evening of each month to knit for the troops.  This coming Tuesday from 5-7 we'll be doing simple helmet liners in both knit and crochet.  Approved yarns are available and the patterns are free.  (And while you're at it, mark Tuesday, May 11th.)

Friday, April 2, 2010

BLOCK OF THE MONTH


BLOCK OF THE MONTH GONE GREAT!


JUDY LUTZO knit a square,
Knit ‘em here, knit ‘em there.
She made them all into a throw
Just in time to foil the snow!
GREAT job, Judy. (Knit from '09 Blocks of the Month in Encore’s colorspun. )

Block of the Month meets three times a month here at the shop. Learn new stitches for projects; no charge for pattern or class but you must buy your yarn here. Check class schedule for day and time.

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

YARN AMNESTY..BEFORE & AFTER




It seemed like such a good idea at the time..and even better now!  People would bring us their unwanted yarn and we'd give them store credit at $1/pound, then use it for charity knitting projects.  We had 2 at the old shop (fall of '08) and one last September for a grand total of (um) 890 pounds of re-purposed yarn.  To put that into perspective, most skeins are about 4 ounces (about 3560 skeins) or, from another view, it's within spittin' distance of a half-ton!  We're still happy to have your excess yarn and hotel samples (shampoo, etc.).
   The first 525 pounds went to law students in Grundy who learned to knit and crochet, making blankets, hats and more for CASA children.  Last fall we began a charity knitting group at the Abingdon Senior Center on Tuesday mornings.  Big ol' Southern breakfast (FREE!) at 9am, then knitting from 10-12.  Fast forward to earlier this month when several knitters and I turned over hats for all ages, scarves, afghans, and baby blankets to agency heads for distribution.
 For details, see this story and plan to join us soon.  http://www.gotricities.com/article.php?id=7008  Thanks for all your help....we can't do it without you!

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Desperately Seeking Samples

  Well, not desperately exactly, but we'd sure like to have those little hotel samples of soap, shampoo, shower gel, etc. we all seem to bring home from trips.  We gather a supply and send them on to the local Women's Shelter.  Please bring them by the shop anytime and we'll get them to the shelter.

Friday, March 26, 2010

EYE-POPPER SOCKS


Think you’ve seen it all in the world of sock yarns? Not quite yet!, ‘til you’ve caught a glimpse of our new Footprints Yarn from Blue Ridge. 100% superwash merino…300 yards of gorgeous hand-dyed yarn and a separate skein of 100 contrasting yards for toe and heel. And for virtually endless possibilities of patterns using 2 circular needles, take a look at our “Socks a la Carte”. 22 cuffs, 32 bodies and 44 feet..How many possible combinations? I’ll leave the math to you!!

Not sock knitter? Use it for contrast on other sock/fingering weight ideas and let us see your projects. Beautiful colors...great idea!

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Crochet Unanimous this Saturday

  That's right...it's the last Saturday already and time for our free crochet afternoon.
1-3pm we'll gather for Chain Gang, a sometimes boisterous, always fun group of hooked crafters.  Bring whatever you're working on for an afternoon of seeing what others are working on, tips and inspiration.  No charge, no reservations, just come and join us!

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Sleepy in Seattle

  Here's what not to do.....fly clear across the country on the same day as Daylight Savings Time begins.  Kristine and I went to Seattle last week for a marketing seminar put on by Yarn Market News - and I don't know quite the word for it.
  Was it fun/interesting/intense being with 100 yarnshop owners from all over the country?  Absolutely!
  Was it restful? Nope, not a bit but the speakers were excellent, the new merchandise (books, patterns, yarns and equipment) coming out for spring is exciting and we had a great time! And it didn't even rain!!
  We walked all over the bottom end of Seattle (about the only wrong turn we didn't take would have marched us right into the water!!), took the ferry over to Bainbridge Island to see a grand little shop called Churchmouse Yarns and Teas, met our new Skacel rep (he of the much-anticipated ADDI LACE CLICKS), "Yarn crawled" through 5 totally dissimilar shops and generally kept our little red eyes open for new ideas!
  It was fun going but we're glad to be back and ready for spring!!

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Coming soon...Addi LACE clicks

Hold onto your seats!  Your socks!  Your shawls!  There's great news coming just ahead of the daffodils!
  Addi's just put out a set of "clicks" interchangeable needles and cables for you people who love their little pointy heads and their non-slip finish.  The set has 8 sets of needles (sizes 4-11), 5 cables of various lengths and a connector to hook them together.  (I've personally never needed a 72" cable, but I guess you never know.)
  We've pre-ordered 6 sets and I'll post the news as soon as they're in.  You could knit an elephant cozy!!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Make Mine Gas

  I don't know how many of you might have seen this but it's super cute.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUFnH7KYMFE  Nothing earth-shaking, just a cute new take on how cozy and cuddly yarn can be.  See what you think and let me know if you have other ideas.  Check out the look on the cat's face!!!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

A-Tisket, A-Tasket..Holy Stitches! What a Basket!!


A-Tisket, A-Tasket…..Holy Stitches..WHAT A BASKET!

March 27th, do something good for yourself and for the Washington Public Library. Call the library for tickets and details and watch for A Likely Yarn’s exciting “basket”. It’s really a great reversible knitting bag from Offhand Designs, stuffed with bottles of wine and Pellegrino, Weekend Knitting designs book, tea bags and a lavender wand. And, oh, yeah, YARN……beaded silk, Peruvian wool, pima cotton, chunky mohair, corn ribbon, a llama/wool blend and hand-dyed sock yarn.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

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Friday, March 12, 2010

Easter ALREADY???!!


That wascally wabbit! Sneaking in here while it still feels like February but he knows it's almost Easter! Fortunately, Jane is at least twice as smart as most rabbits and will be teaching the cutest little knitted Easter eggs you ever saw! Thursday night, March 18th from 5-7....bring your own dibs and dabs of sock weight yarn (or use some of ours) and needles in sizes 1, 2 or 3. $15 for the workshop. (White puffy tails are optional.)

A Promise or A Threat??

When John Buckland of Blue Windmill Galleries promotes a show called Twenty Two Women, you can consider it either way. Twenty-two local female artists join together in a lively and varied show, with a portion of proceeds going to breast cancer research.
Located on East Main Street, next door to Zazzy's Bookstore and Coffeeshop, Blue Windmill is one of our favorite galleries....showcasing art from all ages, for all ages. For more information, visit http://www.bluewindmillgalleries.com/. Don't miss it!!

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

CLASSES..PLAIN & FANCY

CLASSES….BASIC AND NOT-SO-MUCH
By now you know our “base activities” every month….Block of the Month, Chix with Stix, UFOs, Drop-in-and-Spin, Knit for the Troops, Chain Gang (open crochet), Beginning Knitting or Crochet. (Check the schedule for days and times.)
Here’s the New News…Fair Isle Beret (starts March 18th), Beaded Necklace (March 27th), or Feather and Fan scarf (March 13th).for beginning lace knitters. Fees and schedule are included in “Classes” section.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

KALs Galore

KALs GALORE
First it was the Net of Justice and Villainess Gloves (from the series Hand-Knit Heroes), now 2 groups are finishing up Sally Melville's beautiful Camelot Coat.
Our next KAL will be Carol James' elegant Gypsy Shawl. 2nd and 4th Thursday evenings, 5-7pm, beginning March 11 for a total of 5 meetings. The gathering is free but requires pre-registration and purchase of materials and pattern from A Likely Yarn.
Knit-A-Longs are, by definition, not so much an instructor-led "class" as a group of similarly skilled knitters who meet for fun, inspiration, possibly a new skill.....and a gorgeous garment!
Call soon to sign up (276-628-2143) and purchase your materials and pattern before the first meeting.

Friday, March 5, 2010

CAROL JAMES MEETS HARRY POTTER

And our money’s on Carol to teach you her fanciful Block of the Month…..”Mr. Tweed Visits Diagon Alley”. (I didn’t get it but you probably did!) Our Blocks of the Month this year are a rich combination of tweeds in 12 different patterns/stitches and there’s still plenty of time for you to catch up. Classes are (tomorrow!) Saturday, March 6th or the 9th at 10am. No charge for the class but knitters must have basic skills and purchase yarn here at A Likely Yarn.