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Newsletter
Spring 2014
Kiwi News
Volume 9, Issue 4
Peru was wonderful and though I could not keep up with live reports (internet connections from
Puno were less than perfect), I am trying hard to complete the posting of pictures and
explanations around the clamor of January reporting and newsletter duties! Check out the Kiwi
Blog accessible from the home page (top right). Though Peru is not the easiest tourist venue, it
is beautiful and so interesting! The Tinkuy conference exceeded expectations by a mile, Cat &
Pecos were outstanding hosts, and you would love our fellow travelers.
!Our biggest event this season is the hosting of Galina Khmeleva on March 15 & 16. Galina is a
rock star of knitted lace! She is dedicated to preserving the traditions of Orenburg lace and
anxious to provide you with an awesome, unforgettable cultural experience as well as new skills
and confidence in knitting lace. Please see the “Special Events” section under “Classes” for
futher details on her visit to Tucson!
!Of course, we have lots of new yarn arriving! The fav so far is Bamboo Pop, a super soft
combination of cotton & bamboo in lots of great colors! Others include spring colors of Rowan
Fine Art, expensive but an outstanding choice for soft, warm socks & shawls alike. (Mom, a
Chicagoan, has hardly had her new socks off her feet.) Syros from Katia is a light, cool blend
of polyester/acrylic/cotton that is mostly intended for crochet, but is my choice for the Souffle
Snood (see the classes below)! Speaking of the Souffle Snood, Sublime Book #675 is in
stock and every bit as great as previous books! From Noro, we have added new colors of Taiyo
Lace & a new light-worsted yarn, Koromo, a balanced blend of cotton, wool, & silk – VERY soft!
This is a great choice for a Tucson version of your favorite Silk Garden or Kuryeon patterns.
This is just the beginning, come in during the next few months to see the newest arrivals (some
areas of the country think spring weather doesn’t arrive until April!?).
!April will mark the end of Kiwi’s 9 year! Of course we will celebrate! More details will be
mailed in April!
!Finally, Rincon Market opens in just a couple weeks! We can hardly wait!
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Knit Night
Join us for Knit Night there is always friendly conversation, refreshments, and help when you
need it every Monday from 7 – 9 PM. The fee is $5 for non Kiwi Klub members (applicable to a
purchase on the night you attend).
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Sock Group
Looking for friendly faces & warm feet? Come to Kiwi from 1 – 3 PM on the first Saturday of
each month! Sock knitting is strongly encouraged, but not mandatory! Drop-ins welcome.
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Bead Crochet & Beading Workshop
Join our knowledgeable & enthusiastic group to work on bead crochet or other beading
project(s) of your choice. Novice & experienced participants are actively working on bracelets,
necklaces, and earrings using various techniques. 1 – 3 PM each Thursday.
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Kiwi Klub
Kiwi Klub membership includes the following benefits:
♥ Kiwi notebook!
♥ A pattern-of-the-month (remember to pick up when you’re in the shop).
♥ A 10% discount on yarn for the project of the month.
♥ Weekly Knit Night fee
♥ One scheduled tech class each month.
Cost is $70 per year for membership June 1 – May 31st. The cost is pro-rated during the year
as of the first of each month so you snowbirds can take advantage while you’re here. New
Memberships close on March 1, 2014. A real bargain just for the Knit Nights alone!
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Knit Doctor
Feel free to drop in on Friday mornings when Holly or Kendra is available from
10 AM – Noon to help with your knitting and crocheting challenges. (No charge!)
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Classes!
Whether you want to learn a new skill, try a new project, or simply socialize, we have just the
class for you - from the basics to advanced techniques. Private lessons are available, too.
You’ll love working with a great line-up of teachers: Brigid Connolly, Holly Harper, Jill Holbrook,
Deborah Levine, Kendra McNally, & Michelle Yauger. Check www.kiwiknitting.com for
updates. In order to provide you with the individual attention you deserve, classes are limited
to 5 unless otherwise noted.
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We’d like to hear from you! Let us know what classes you would like to see and best times for
you. E-mail me at [email protected].
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Special Events
A Weekend with Galina! -- Lace lovers rejoice! Galina Khmeleva of Skaska Designs is coming
to town. Thursday & Friday March 13 & 14 the “Tucson Handweavers & Spinners Guild” will
host a 2-day workshop, “Fundamentals of Orenburg Lace Knitting”. Then Galina comes to Kiwi
for 2 additional days of classes as follows:
9 AM – Noon Sat March 15: An Overview of Orenburg-style Knitted Lace
Elegant borders, sensational motifs, intriguing technique, and the fascinating women
who make it happen! Join Galina for an in-depth look at Orenburg-style knitted lace from
both a technical and historical perspective. Cost: $40 + $5 materials fee.
1 – 4 PM Sat March 15: The Perfect Edge, Knitted Lace Embellishments
Orenburg lace is often recognized by its exquisitely detailed scalloped border. You will
first be introduced to the fascinating techniques that result in this “perfect edge,” then
explore various ways to turn ordinary table, bed and bath linens, even favorite clothing
items into luxurious collectibles with the addition of the simple, sophisticated Orenburg
lace border. Cost: $40 + $5 materials fee.
9 AM – 4 PM Sun March 16: Embraceable Lace – Conquering Your Lace Knitting
Fears Relax … take a deep breath … repeat after me: I CAN learn to knit lace! If just
the sight of laceweight yarn causes a rash, this introductory lace class is for you. With a
unique, inspiring, fun-loving teaching style, Galina unravels the myths & mystery about
the complexity of lace knitting. You will wonder what all the fuss was about!
Cost: $80 + $10 materials fee. Lunch provided.
Materials for all classes: Favorite needles sz US0 – 3; note-taking materials; yarn &
charts provided. Material fees are paid to Galina on the day of class. Beverages &
snacks provided for all classes.
For details on THSG’s workshop, please visit their website, www.thsg.org.
Uniquely Yours -- Begin to design your own sweaters or modify a pattern to make it uniquely
yours. Start with a yarn you love, your favorite garment or an idea. Students will learn to choose
appropriate yarns, stitches, needle size, gauge and basic design tips and start a design using a
worksheet and schematic. Materials: a variety of knitting needles; scissors; a ruler or tape
measure; pencil & paper; and project ideas, patterns, a favorite garment, or yarns you wish to
use. Cost: $40. Teacher: Jill Holbrook. 10 AM – 2:30 (30 min. lunch break) Sat Apr 12
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Beginner Classes
The Beginning Crochet Series – Learn the basics of crochet – the foundation chain, single &
double crochet, pattern reading, and more in this 3-session class. Then create an easy scarf to
help you practice your new skills. Materials: A size H crochet hook & 100g a plied worsted
yarn. Cost: $50. Teacher: Jill Holbrook
10 – Noon:
Thu Feb 20 – Mar 6
Mon Apr 21 – May 5
Intermediate Crochet – Once you have learned the basics, this class will take you to the next
level. You will make a hat while learning how to increase & work circular construction similar to
“Granny Squares”. Materials: 100g worsted-weight yarn & a size H crochet hook. Cost: $40.
Teacher: Jill Holbrook. 1 – 3 PM Fri Mar 28 & Apr 4 (2 sessions)
The Beginning Knitting Series — A series of 4 modules that can take you from non-knitter to
confident knitter ready for most common knitting projects. Making a sampler scarf allows you to
master the knit and purl stitches, casting on (starting), binding off (ending), basic increases and
decreases and pattern reading. Take one or all. Materials: 200yd worsted weight yarn and
knitting needles size 8, 9, or 10. Cost: $60 or $25 per module. Teachers: Michelle Yauger &
Kendra McNally.
1 – 3 PM:
Wed Apr 2 – 23
7 – 9 PM:
Tue Feb 18 – Mar 11
Second Steps – Second Steps is a series of 3 classes for the new knitter. Using a simple hat,
these modules will expand your knowledge of casting on, increasing & decreasing, knitting in
the round and simple color work. Materials: 75g of worsted yarn in 1 or 2 colors; 16” circular
knitting needles sized US7 & 6. Cost: $50. Teacher: Lynn Davis & Kendra McNally.
1 – 3 PM:
Fri Feb 14 – 28
7 – 9 PM:
Tue Apr 22 – May 6
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Spin DR – Jill will be at Kiwi on the Saturday mornings listed below to teach beginners and
those needing help to move to the next level alike. Learn hand spinning, how to use a spinning
wheel or bring your questions about preparing and spinning fibers. Materials: Your hand
spindle and/or wheel, fiber and questions. Cost: $25/session. Teacher: Jill Holbrook
10 – Noon:
Feb 15, Mar 8, & Apr 19
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Tech Classes
Cost: $25/class unless otherwise noted. Unless otherwise indicated, please bring a small
amount of worsted weight yarn & US 7 knitting needles.
!Filet Crochet – Learn how to create dainty lace items in crochet. Then amaze your friends &
family with beautiful gifts ranging from sachet bags to summer shawls. Teacher: Jill Holbrook.
10 – Noon Sat Feb 8
!Starting in the Middle – Some hats, shawls, blankets & other projects start from a center point
with just a few sts. While many patterns use the usual circular cast on for this, this class will
teach you some interesting methods you might like better. Materials: A small amount of yarn;
double pointed needles & 2 circulars of a suitable size for the yarn. Teacher: Holly Harper.
10 – Noon Tue Feb 11
!Adding Beads – Beads can add a little sparkle to projects. This class will teach you the 4 ways
to make that happen. Materials: Sz 6 seed beads & a small amount of fingering weight yarn.
Teacher: Jill Holbrook. 1 – 3 PM Wed Feb 19
!Using Stitch Dictionary – So you found this wonderful book with cool patterns you’d like to try,
but how can you use them? Learn how to take the 6 (or 8 or 10) st pattern & turn it into
something wide enough to use or wear. Soon you’ll find yourself designing all sorts of projects!
Teacher: Brigid Connolly. 1 – 3 PM Mon Feb 24
!Ergonomic Knitting – Wrist strain? Neck strain? Brain strain? Come learn some stretches,
exercises, and techniques to help avoid repetitive motion injuries that can be caused by knitting
& crocheting. Bring some knitting and learn different holds for the needles. There is no reason
to let pain stop your needles from flying. Teacher: Brigid Connolly. 1 – 3 PM Mon Mar 3
!Chart Reading – If your knitting involves lace, cable, and/or color patterns and you are getting
lost in long strings of instructions, TAKE THIS COURSE! Learn the ease of using charts to
greatly simplify the process. Teacher: Kendra McNally. 7 – 9 PM Wed Mar 12
!Converting a sweater into the round – If you have ever wished you could cut seams out from
a project to avoid mismatched stripes or just reduce the finishing work then this class is
designed for you! You will learn the adjustments needed at key points to achieve your goals .
Materials: If you have a pattern you’d like to convert bring it with you. Teacher: Holly Harper.
1 – 3 PM Fri Mar 21
!Shadow Knitting – Now you see it – now you don’t! Learn how to add a subtle pattern that
disappears in an instant when you change position. Materials: Bring 2 colors of yarn -- one
light, one dark. Teacher: Jill Holbrook. 1 – 3 PM Tue Mar 25
!Seams – – From the simple to the sophisticated. Learn the techniques that will make the
dreaded s-word your newest friend. You will be amazed at how beautiful your projects will look
with these techniques. Materials: a darning needle & a crochet hook; a couple 4x4 knitted
squares or a project in need of seaming. Teacher: Brigid Connolly. 10 – Noon Sat Apr 5
!Cast-offs – Did you know there are 80 different ways to cast (bind) off? Come explore some
new ways to enhance your next project! Teacher: Brigid Connolly. 1 – 3 PM Mon Apr 7
!Lace Elements – Lace is simply holes in your knitting! The beauty is in how you make those
holes. In this class, you will make a swatch to start you reading lace charts and learning some
basic lace patterns. If time permits, a simple knitted-on border will also be included.
Teacher: Kendra McNally. 1 – 3 PM Fri Apr 18
!Increases & Decreases – Discover the world beyond Kf&b and K2tog. You will love the results
each technique brings to your knitting! Teacher: Holly Harper. 10 – Noon Tue Apr 22
!Fair Isle – Are you intrigued by the beauty of items made in patterns with 2 or more colors?
Learn the techniques to start creating your own! Materials: small amts of 2 different colors of
yarn & appropriate needles. Teacher: Jill Holbrook. 1 – 3 PM Wed Apr 30
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Projects
!Bead Crochet Bracelet – Learn this internationally popular technique for making vintage bead
rope jewelry while creating a beautiful bracelet or necklace. No crochet experience is
necessary. Materials: 6 colors of size 6/0 seed beads; #10 crochet thread; 2.1 – 1.5 mm steel
crochet hook; scissors; bead mat; & thread heaven. Cost based on private lesson fees.
Teacher: Deborah Levine. Scheduled on a private basis only. Call for contact information.
!Audrey Twinset Shell – If you are a crocheter looking for an interesting & stylish project for this
summer, consider the Audrey Twinset Shell. Make it in April and wear it all summer. The shell
features a shell stitch body flowing into an innovative, sleeveless shoulder/neckline. Materials:
850y fingering yarn for main color & 425y contrasting color; Size D hook; markers; & pattern
from Interweave “Crochet” winter 2013 issue. Cost: $50. Teacher: Jill Holbrook.
1 – 3 PM Tue Apr 8 – 22
!Hester Cowl – This cowl from “Malabrigo Book 5: In SOHO” is sure to brighten everyone’s day!
It features a 2-color thorn stitch pattern in a bright color on a dark background. This is a great
way to learn/practice Fair Isle knitting. The original is made in a worsted weight yarn however,
Kendra is ready to help you adjust the pattern for whatever yarn you want to use. Materials:
200g of your bright color & 100g of the dark; knitting needles one size larger than suggested on
the yarn’s label plus a circular with a 40” cable in the same size; & access to the pattern in
“Malabrigo Book 5”. Cost: $25. Teacher: Kendra McNally. 10 – Noon Sat Mar 22
!Shelby Creek Shrug – Take a simple garment, add an unconventional, seamless technique &
counterpane lace pattern and you have the perfect topper to embellish any outfit. Materials:
800y sock yarn; US 4 24” circular needle & double points; markers; & the pattern from
“Knitscene” Spring 2014. Cost: $40. Teacher: Holly Harper. 10 – Noon Wed Feb 12 & 28
!Socks Your Way – If you have mastered knit and purl and are looking for a new challenge, this
course may be just what you are looking for. You will be introduced to several different
techniques for sock construction then choose the one that you prefer to make your first sock. A
great project for trips, sport events, or while waiting for your children’s lessons. Materials: 100g
of fingering or sport weight yarn; a set of US 0, US 1, or US 2 circular or double pointed
needles; pattern provided. Cost: $50. Teacher: Kendra McNally.
10 – Noon:
Wed Mar 5, 19 & 26
Thu Apr 24, May 8 & 15
!Souffle Snood – This irresistible snood/cowl has a soufflé softness that falls softly over your
hair or in folds around your neck. In soft merino lace yarn, it will fit perfectly under your sweater
or coat for extra coziness during the early, northern spring weather. In a silk or summery fiber, it
is the perfect summer accessory. Materials: 385y lace yarn; US 6 24” circular needle; markers;
& pattern from Sublime Book #675. Cost: $40. Teacher: Lynn Davis.
10 AM – Noon Tue Apr 1 & 8.
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Take Flight Shawl – Here is a really fun triangular shawlette that will let you take flight into the
world of knitted stitch patterns and color! When done – sure to spruce up your wardrobe!
Materials: 1 skein Kettle Tweed (436y sock yarn), 1 hand each of 2 colors of Elfin Tweed (208y
each); 36” circular knitting needle US 5; & Knit One Crochet too pattern # 2040. Cost: $50.
Teacher: Holly Harper. 1 -- 3 Tue Mar 11 & 18
!Winterfrost Wrap – Pretty as a doily but much softer! A dainty, crocheted wrap that dresses up
a simple neckline for a special event. Materials: 1 skein Malabrigo lace (420y lace weight yarn);
Sz B crochet hook; & pattern in a free e-book @ crochetme.com (download BEFORE March
15th). Cost: $50. Teacher: Holly Harper. 10 – Noon Thu Apr 3 & 10
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Spring’s Featured Book!
Malabrigo has another winner with it’s new softcover “Malabrigo Book 5: In SOHO”. From lacey
“spring” (aka the “Swiss Cheese Scarf”), the thick cabled,”broome” cowl, the Fair Isle “hester”
cowl (see the class above) to any of the several lace the shawlettes, the projects reflect the fast
pace and history of SOHO. They take seed in the soft yarns of Malabrigo, and they will inspire
and challenge you for years to come!
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Class times don’t fit your schedule?
Call about private lessons or to find out if more classes are being planned when it is convenient
for you. (881—1319)
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Store Policies
New policies in bold
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Full skeins of yarn are returnable up to 1 year after purchase except sale items & special
orders. A receipt for the purchase must accompany EVERY return.
Needles and patterns are not returnable after 3 days.
Needles and equipment must be in the original packaging and accompanied by a receipt.
Store credit only will be given.
Pre-registration and payment are required to reserve your spot in our classes and events.
Cancellations must be made by close of business the day previous to your class. Refunds
are given only if your spot is filled, but you may reschedule for a future class at no extra fee.
The stated times for each class are estimates and may vary by the number of people
attending.
Class materials are not included unless specifically stated otherwise.
2% discount given for cash/check purchases.
Checks greater than $250 are accepted only with the approval of the owner.
Kiwi Knitting Company
2540 E. 6th Street
Tucson AZ 85716
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Phone: (520) 881-1319
Email: [email protected] Mon – Sat 10 AM – 6 PM
Web: www.kiwiknitting.com