#KnittingPeachy #CrochetPeachy Michaels® Declares August Fine Art Month with In-Store Events, New Premium Products, and Exceptional Savings

Month-long celebration invites customers of all skill levels to unplug, create, and connect through hands-on experiences while discovering new fine art items at significant discountsEvery week in August, customers can participate in free in-store events, product demonstrations, and open classroom workshops designed to inspire creativity and build connection.

An expanded fine art assortment will roll out throughout August online and in stores, including hundreds of new products across paint, markers, pencils, paper and professional artist accessories.

Customers can enjoy significant savings and thousands of BOGO offers on fine art essentials throughout the month.

As more consumers embrace hands-on creativity to unplug, learn, and connect, Michaels is fueling the joy of creativity and celebration by declaring August Fine Art Month and transforming its stores and digital channels into the ultimate destination for artists. Throughout the month, both experienced fine artists and aspiring creators can discover free events in all stores, an expanded assortment of premium fine art supplies rolling out online and in stores, and exceptional savings on thousands of products from leading fine art brands.

Michaels® Declares August Fine Art Month with In-Store Events, New Premium Products, and Exceptional Savings

"More people are rediscovering the joy of creating with their hands and are looking for opportunities to connect with others through shared experiences," said Stacey Shively, Chief Merchant Officer at Michaels. "Fine Art Month is about bringing the artistic community together to celebrate their craft, while making it easier than ever to access affordable premium supplies, elevated inspiration and the top-tier brands creators can rely on."

A Month of Creativity and Community

Throughout August, customers can participate in free in-store and online programming to test out new products, work on creative projects, and explore leading fine art brands through:Open Classroom Sessions (Every Tuesday & Wednesday from 6-8pm): Offered for the first time ever, these free drop-in sessions invite customers to bring their own project or start fresh while experimenting with new materials, learn special techniques and receive inspiration from Michaels Team Members and leading brands including Staedtler, Golden, Koi, Liquitex, Micron, and Ohuhu.

Fine Art Events (Every Sunday from 1-3pm): Customers can participate in free guided art projects and watch live demonstrations featuring leading brands including Prismacolor, Liquitex, Winsor & Newton, and Faber-Castell.

Live Online Classes (Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6pm CT): These free evening sessions are led by expert instructors and cover drawing, acrylics, watercolor, portraiture, and figure drawing. The series concludes with a special wrap-up event featuring a student showcase and live instructor feedback.

Video Content: Creators can access an extensive library of new tutorials from top brands like Faber-Castell, Winsor & Newton, Liquitex, and Tombow, offering helpful guidance on working with exceptional quality art products.

Michaels' Expanded Premium Fine Arts Selection

Fine Art Month marks an expansion of Michaels' premium fine art assortment, with hundreds of new and exclusive products arriving online and in stores throughout August. Customers will discover the best brands and an unmatched selection designed to make it easy to explore, compare products, and find the right materials for every medium and skill level. Highlights include:New Premium Paints & Tools: An expanded acrylic, watercolor, and oil paint assortment from trusted brands including Liquitex, Winsor & Newton, Gamblin, Holbein, and Koi, alongside the addition of Iwata airbrush machines.

More Drawing & Illustration Materials: New markers, colored pencils, and drawing supplies from Ohuhu, Faber-Castell, POSCA, and Staedtler, and expanded options in artist-grade surfaces including Arches, Canson Artist Series, and Strathmore.

Save Big on Fine Art Supplies

Throughout August, customers can take advantage of limited-time savings on fine art essentials, including deep discounts and thousands of BOGO offers across paint, brushes, canvas, markers, sketchbooks, paper pads and other artist favorites. Month-long promotions include Buy 2, Get 2 Free canvas offers and Buy One, Get One 50% Off sketchbooks and paper pads, making it the perfect time to stock up for creative projects. Educators can also stack these savings with Michaels' everyday 15% teacher discount, making it an ideal time to prep for back-to-school.

Additionally, customers can enter a social media giveaway on Michaels' Instagram from August 22-28 for a chance to win professional-grade fine art supplies, including premium brushes, paper pads, and more.

By combining inspiring experiences, classes, and new and exclusive products, Michaels is making Fine Art Month more than a sales event – it is a celebration of artists and creative communities while reinforcing Michaels as the leading destination for creativity and celebration across North America.

To learn more about Fine Art Month, upcoming events and featured promotions, visit Michaels.com.

About The Michaels Companies, Inc.

At The Michaels Companies, Inc., our purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration. As the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, we operate over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada and online at Michaels.com and Michaels.ca. The Michaels Companies, Inc. also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of custom and specialty framing merchandise. Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels is the best place for all things creative. 

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CraftsyTV Launches New Channel on Sling Freestream to Broaden Reach and Offer Creative Inspiration

TN Marketing announces its latest partnership with Sling Freestream to launch the creative DIY channel and continue the expansion of CraftsyTV in the FAST market.

TN Marketing is excited to announce its latest collaboration with Sling Freestream, a leading free ad-supported television (FAST) streaming service. The partnership brings the DIY channel, CraftsyTV to Sling Freestream users with no payment or credit card required to watch. CraftsyTV offers viewers a diverse range of instructional videos, project tutorials, how-to demonstrations, and original programming across a wide array of categories including knitting, baking, quilting, sewing, cake decorating, crocheting, jewelry making and more.

CraftsyTV delivers creative inspiration 24/7 with exciting and engaging expert-led programming!

Craftsy, an online, subscription-based service specializing in creative, educational classes, is best known for offering its members an extensive variety of over 2,000 instructional classes and videos, covering more than 20 hobbies. The sampling of Craftsy's content on the Sling Freestream platform will allow CraftsyTV viewers to immerse themselves in engaging project tutorials and captivating demonstrations to help them discover new creative skills and find joy in the satisfaction of lifelong learning.

"This partnership is an exciting endeavor that will allow audiences to engage with our video content and give viewers an experience of what a Craftsy membership offers," says Jim Kopp, COO of TN Marketing, expressing his enthusiasm about the launch. "We're looking forward to the invaluable exposure that the CraftsyTV FAST channel will create and the opportunity to present instructional and entertaining DIY programming to viewers who want creativity-inspiring content."

The partnership is sure to complement Sling Freestream's existing lineup, which provides viewers with an impressive selection of more than 400 free channels and an extensive library of over 41,000 on-demand titles, while also allowing users to subscribe to over 50 standalone streaming services, including AMC+, discovery+, MGM+ and Showtime.

Accessible on Sling Freestream through both the SLING TV app and website, the newly introduced CraftsyTV channel will provide users with unlimited access to inspiring and creative content at no cost. The collaboration between CraftsyTV and Sling Freestream presents an exciting and promising prospect for viewers with diverse interests and holds true to Craftsy's core positioning as a valuable educational resource, empowering viewers to embrace their passions and enrich their lives through creativity.

To learn more about Craftsy and CraftsyTV, please visit https://www.craftsy.com/craftsytv/.

About TN Marketing

TN Marketing is a global media company that creates highly engaged communities of experts, enthusiasts, and hobbyists. With a presence in over 170 countries, the company is dedicated to engaging people with their passions and empowering them to explore their interests and unleash their creativity. The company creates high-quality instructional video content that spans various creative categories such as knitting, baking, sewing, painting, paper crafts, embroidery, woodworking, crocheting, and many more. TN Marketing's mission is to build a global community of individuals who are passionate about learning new skills and techniques and eager to share their knowledge and experience with others. For more information, please visit www.tnmarketing.com.

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#KnittingPeachy #CrochetPeachy @LionBrandYarn Announces #145thAnniversary Celebration

Previously Highly Recommended by Whom You Know this year for their Fisherman's Wool, Lion Brand Yarn Company, a leading global marketer and distributor of knitting and craft yarn and a fifth-generation, family-owned business, is proudly celebrating its milestone 145-year anniversary. Founded in 1878, Lion Brand has been at the forefront of the American crafting community throughout its long history, evolving and connecting with consumers through numerous cultural shifts, including recently developing fully sustainable products and partnering with nonprofit organizations that promote mental health and work to combat discrimination.

Lion Brand Yarn Announces 145th Anniversary Celebration

Lion Brand Yarn Announces 145th Anniversary Celebration

"Few creative mediums have proven their longevity and adaptability across cultures and trends throughout the years as much as the fiber arts, and Lion Brand Yarn is proud to have been at the forefront of this wonderful, inclusive community since 1878," said Adam Blumenthal, President, CEO and fifth-generation family member of Lion Brand Yarn. "Our success and longevity are a testament to many things, including the quality, trust and value associated with our brand, our continuously evolving product portfolio, the comfort our products provide to our amazing, highly engaged Lion Brand customers and the continued support of our retail partners."

Throughout the next several months, more than one million followers across Lion Brand's social channels will be treated to historical content looking back at past fashions in the fiber arts category, shoutouts from aficionados and opportunities to win Lion Brand gift cards, among many other surprises.

Lion Brand Yarn's history and resilience are significant: The brand was founded before the automobile, motion pictures, the Hershey Bar and Coca-Cola. Today, the company continues to be a market leader, driven by core legacy brands including Wool Ease®, Wool-Ease Thick & Quick®, Hometown®, Heartland®, Homespun® and Pound of Love®; meaningful new innovative product introductions including Hue & Me® and Mandala®; and an extensive natural and sustainable fiber portfolio including Re-Spun® and Coboo®, all of which are supported by leading-edge social and digital media.

In addition, Lion Brand Yarn supports knitters and crocheters by offering more than 8,000 free patterns on lionbrand.com and promoting community engagement via a diverse array of respected bloggers and influencers. The company has a long history of charitable endeavors, working with nonprofit organizations including Mental Health America, Knit the Rainbow, Warm Up America, HatNotHate, It Gets Better Project and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which has received over $2 million in proceeds from sales of Vanna's Choice®, a brand launched in collaboration with longtime Lion Brand spokesperson and "Wheel of Fortune" star Vanna White.

Notable company milestones include: In 1904, Lion Brand's first advertisement appeared in the Ladies' Home Journal.

In 1951, Lion Brand was one of the first companies to introduce nylon and orlon into the market, forever changing the hand-knitting world.

In 1965, Lion Brand became the first hand-knitting company in America to receive the coveted Woolmark, a globally recognized symbol of quality and authenticity in 100% wool products.

In 1978, Lion Brand received an official declaration from the City of New York in recognition of its 100th anniversary.

In 1981, Lion Brand introduced Jamie Yarn, the first yarn line with a photo on the label.

"Wheel of Fortune" star and knitting and crocheting aficionado Vanna White became Lion Brand's spokesperson in 1994, later launching the best-selling Vanna's Choice® line of pattern books and yarn.

In 2002, Lion Brand ignited the Fun Fur craze, inspiring millions of new knitting and crocheting enthusiasts.

In 2004, Lion Brand's website received hundreds of thousands of downloads of the free pattern for Martha Stewart's now-iconic prison release poncho.

In 2013, Lion Brand was awarded the highly coveted Family Business Award of Excellence by Ernst & Young.

In 2020, Lion Brand acquired Silk City Fibers, a leading marketer and distributor of fine yarns to designers and discriminating consumers.

In 2021, Lion Brand partnered with renowned Black crochet artist Aniqua Wilkerson to create Skein Tones, a product line that complements a wide spectrum of skin tones. The product was honored with a 2022 Gold Stevie Award from the American Business Awards.

In 2022, Lion Brand's Truboo, Coboo, and Re-Spun yarns were named Sustainability Product of the Year by the Business Intelligence Group's Sustainability Awards.

ABOUT LION BRAND YARN COMPANY

Celebrating its 145th anniversary in 2023, Lion Brand Yarn Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned business and one of the leading knitting and craft yarn companies in the United States. Lion Brand yarns are sold online and in stores across North America and in over 100 countries. Hundreds of types of yarn can be purchased on LionBrand.com and sister company SilkCityFibers.com, in addition to tools and accessories. Since 1878, Lion Brand has inspired and educated knitters and crocheters. Today, research shows that knitting and crocheting help relieve stress through the soothing, repetitive motions of the craft and by helping people achieve a creative outlet that produces tangible and valuable products.

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#KnittingPeachy Fishermen's Wool® Yarn by @LionBrandYarn Highly Recommended by #PeachyDeegan @ManhattanPeachy #WhomYouKnow

Capitalize on the remaining chilly days and celebrate St. Patrick's day authentically with Celtic designs in Classic Fishermen's Wool

It's not who you know, it's WHOM YOU KNOW and we know Lion Brand Yarn.

With St. Patrick's Day only days away, it is high time to celebrate being Irish or wishing that you were, and we know from the time Peachy Deegan was a resident of Ireland that knitting is a time-honored tradition and that today's Irish people want to be known for authenticity not the run-of-the-mill American commercialized St. Patrick's Day.  Of course Peachy is genetically proudly Irish.  Families used to have their own design that everyone in the family would wear when they were fishing so they could be identified; knitting is historically important in the Celtic Isles.  This wool is ideal for doing sweaters, and all the statistics are found below though you should calculate your own because everyone has unique tension.  It is a medium weight and the site suggests a size 9 needle, however we prefer an 8 for a tighter knit.  Read the History of the Aran Sweater here.

Five colors are available and we recommend Oatmeal, which is a light taupe, and Nature's Brown, which is a dark chocolate.  Don't eat it.  We prefer the solid colors as they are the classiest and show knitting quality best.  The natural color also looks great however we don't think it would age well in Manhattan unless you lived in a bubble; this can be a dirty, gritty place even if you are the neatest and cleanest person.  Also we recommend you don't clean it yourself after investing the time to create: use Hallak the Couture Cleaner by Mover and Shaker John-Claude Hallak.

Previously in Knitting Peachy, we have raved about Alice Starmore and her book Aran Knitting, and Norah Gaughan and her book Knitted Cable Sourcebook.  If you are a patient person that enjoys colorwork, may we suggest this book on Fair Isle.  We would suggest using books for inspiration but come up with your own look and design.  You don't want anyone else to replicate it or have it!  The beauty of knitting a piece bespoke is that it fits you exactly in both obviously the fit and also the design to reflect your style.  There is no need to reinvent the wheel in doing cables however; they are timeless.  This yarn is made in India; we would like to see it made in the USA or in Ireland/UK.

There is not a lot of winter left, so pick your style and make sure you have more yarn than you need because there is nothing worse than running out of yarn on a project!  You absolutely most definitely want to be using wool as a fiber for winter knitting.  The dye lots should match.  As you progress in your new endeavor, you'll gain envious looks by non-knitters and perhaps even more conversation from new people than you ever anticipated.  Knitting is a great Oscar-watching activity!

Fishermen's Wool® Yarn by Lion Brand Yarn is Highly Recommended.

Lion tell us on their website:

Our classic Fishermen's Wool® is made of undyed pure virgin wool with natural lanolin oil. Soft, warm, and naturally water resistant, it's ideal for ski-wear and fisherman sweaters, hats, scarves, and more. Fishermen's Wool® also felts beautifully for dense slippers, strong bags, and textural home decor projects. Plus its generous size and natural shades make it perfect for dyeing!

Inspiration

Patterns made with Fishermen's Wool®

Kits made with Fishermen's Wool®

Yarn Weight

4 Medium / Worsted

Crochet Gauge (4in x 4in)

16 sc x 16 r on H-8 (5 mm)

Knit Gauge (4in x 4in)

16 sts x 22 r on #9 (5.5 mm)

Length (yd)

465 (348 in prints)

Length (m)

425 (318 in prints)

Weight (oz)

8 (6 in prints)

Weight (g)

227 (170 in prints)

Fiber

Acrylic, Wool

Fiber Detail

100% Pure Virgin Wool

Only [Birch Tweed-202]: 90% wool, 7% acrylic, 3% rayon

Care

Hand Wash, Lay Flat to Dry

Care Detail

Items made from this yarn may be laundered through the use of water, detergent or soap and gentle hand manipulation. No bleach product may be used. A machine dryer may not be used. Lay out horizontally for drying.

About Lion Brand® Yarn

Lion Brand® Yarn Company is a fifth generation, family-owned business. Lion Brand® yarns are sold online, at craft chains, discount chains and independent shops across the United States. We are passionate about helping people enjoy the pleasures of working with yarn.

We're With You Every Stitch Of The Way®

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The Lion Brand 2023 Culture Report Highlights the Top 10 Trends in Knitting and Crocheting to Watch in the New Year

As told to us by Lion- note our indications of what we like here:

Influencers and Lion Brand's Style Watchers Round Up Culture-Defining Knitting and Crocheting Trends from the Catwalk to the Everyday Style

As knitting and crocheting continue to break into mainstream culture, [however everyone that is anyone knows this art has a long history and has never gone out of style in our mainstream culture], from the catwalk to everyday style, the Lion Brand 2023 Culture Report reveals the top 10 trends to watch this year according to them. Compiled by Lion Brand Yarn Company's influencers and trend watchers, this year's trends range from coastal chic to crochet-to-slay.

"This year, the fiber arts continue to embed themselves in culture from the runway to street style," said Jessica Hendrickson, Design Director of Lion Brand Yarn. "The report captures the continued excitement we're seeing around knitting and crocheting in culture, and I'm thrilled to see the increased excitement, especially about crocheting."

Weighing in on the "coastal chic" trend, Alexandra Tavel, the Knitwear Designer behind Two of Wands, said, "this trend is here to stay." "My new Coastal Chic Collection is inspired by New England fishing villages, keeping you cozy yet elegant in the salty breeze of the chilly seaside and evoking mood."

These are the top 10 trends highlighted in this year's culture report:

1. Happy Camper

This trend is boho-chic reimagined. Offbeat, energetic, and optimistic, the laid-back looks revitalize vintage-inspired pieces with bold and vibrant colors, patterns, and graphics to encourage a playful vibe. Essential designs include crocheted tanks, jacquard sets, crochet shorts, and bucket hats.

2. Coastal Chic

The Coastal Grandma craze continues with Jimmy Fallon even debuting an ode to Jane Fonda's coastal chic wardrobe from Netflix's hit show Grace and Frankie. Whether you love the entire aesthetic or the fashion, the coastal grandmother style is about relaxation and tranquility. Embrace neutral tones and oversized cardigans, relaxed button-downs, and khakis.

3. Men Embracing Knitwear and Knitting

The image of Olympic Gold Medalist Diver Tom Daley feverishly knitting during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics catapulted his passion into the pop culture spotlight and led to "Made for Love," his own line of yarn, knit kits, and his new book, "Made for Love." Harry Styles is another guy embracing this trend, dubbed the "king of the sweater" for his bold, statement-making colorful knits. Even Ian McKellen and ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus were seen knitting the band's latest range of festive sweaters.

4. The Sweater Dress

Celebrities like Olivia Culpo, Karlie Kloss, and Katie Holmes have chosen sweater dresses to make a fashion statement, as they can quickly go from day to night and work with many accessories. Combat boots, knit hats, sunglasses? Take your pick.

5. Slay in Crochet

According to Year on TikTok: 2022, smaller communities like Crocheters of TikTok were increasingly popular and made TikTok's list of favorite communities. Whether crocheting drink cozies, hand-made dresses, or sharing their passion for their favorite crochet needles, crocheters keep their community in stitches. Let's not forget celebrities like Dua Lipa, Gigi Hadid, and even Vanna White, Lion Brand Yarn's spokesperson of 30 years, have been spotted wearing trendy crochet miniskirts, cutout knit dresses, fun crop tops, and adorable accessories.

6. Sustainability

Although sustainability has become ubiquitous in the hearts and minds of much of the public, the knitting and craft yarn industry has historically lagged. Most products are manufactured with man-made polyester blends. More companies, including Lion Brand Yarn, are working to develop and offer sustainable products made from natural or recycled sources like plastic bottles.

7. Prep School Chic - we like it!

Collegiate cardigans and cable-knit scholarly style staples like cable-knit sweaters and logo-emblazoned cardigans have a new high-fashion twist from fashion-favorite brands like Miu Miu and Gucci. Chevron sweaters from Tory Burch and Lacoste feel retro. Like plaid, argyle is another pattern to consider. This is classic and has never gone out of style and may we suggest the Preppy Handbook by Mover and Shaker Carol Wallace which details exactly what you should be wearing.

8. Knitting with Purpose

From global knitting circles to charities like #HatNotHate, Knit the Rainbow, Knock Knock Give A Sock, and Warm Up America!, there's no shortage of people using their stitching skills to give back.

9. Knitting for Health

Knitting isn't just for grandma anymore since the pandemic has gained popularity among younger generations, and many are using it to de-stress.

10. Retro Opulence

With the popularity of Netflix's The Crown and the fascination with the Royals, the retro opulence trend taps into consumers' intrigue with all things regal. Lion Brand's 2023 Color of the Year Pomegranate conjures visions of romance and mystery with velvet, feather trim, alluring satin, and gorgeous gemstones. The shade's depth reminds us how luxurious it feels to dress up and wrap ourselves in lavishness.

###

ABOUT LION BRAND YARN COMPANY

Lion Brand Yarn Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned business and one of the leading knitting and craft yarn distributors in the United States. Lion Brand yarns are sold online and at craft chains, discount chains, and independent shops across the country. Via their website, they ship to virtually every country in the world. More than 80 different types of yarn can be purchased on LionBrand.com, in addition to tools and accessories. Since 1878, Lion Brand has inspired and educated knitters and crocheters. Today, research shows that knitting and crocheting help relieve stress through the soothing, repetitive motions of the craft and by helping people achieve a creative outlet that produces tangible and valuable products.

Read more...

#FashionAlert #KnittingPeachy #ItalyPeachy @LionBrandYarn LB Collection® Merino Yak Alpaca #MadeInItaly by Lion Brand Yarn Company Earns Whom You Know's Highest Recommendation. Lion Brand Yarn Company 24/7 Cotton DK and Feels Like Heaven Highly Recommended by Whom You Know.

Whom You Know could not be more thrilled to kick off our coverage of Lion Brand Yarn Company! This is their first review, however our use of them predates Whom You Know.  Lion Brand Yarn Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned business and one of the leading knitting and craft yarn marketers and distributors in the United States and international markets. 

Renowned for its innovation, social media, and community engagement, Lion Brand’s yarns are sold online and at craft chains, discount chains, and independent shops. More than 80 different types of yarn, as well as tools,  accessories, and designs, are available on LionBrand.com. Since 1878, Lion Brand has inspired and educated knitters, crocheters, and weavers. 

Today, research shows that knitting and crocheting help relieve stress through the soothing, repetitive motions of the craft and by providing an artistic experience that produces meaningful creations and affords a sense of fulfillment. You better believe as we close in on 27,000 posts over nearly 14 years there have been stressful moments and guess what Peachy does....Lion Brand Yarn Company’s mission is to spread warmth, comfort, and inspiration to the world byproviding products and social engagement that promote the joy of knitting, crocheting, and weaving.Lion Brand’s purpose is to Create a More Colorful, Connected, Comforting, and Caring World!

Ooooh we love love love love love Made in Italy and not only do we talk the talk but we walk the walk as evidenced by the Italian Trade's multiple articles on Whom You Know throughout the years.  Of the three yarns we write about today this is our absolute favorite and we suggest ordering it now as we can see it selling out of your favorite color easily.  Merino Yak Alpaca is like an all-encompassing hug no matter what you decide to make with it.  It's 70 percent Merino Wool, 15 percent Yak and 15 percent Alpaca thus earning it a most appropriate name.  AND IT IS A PRODUCT OF ITALY.  Each ball is 1.75 oz and 126 yards and we love it best in Navy.  It's a medium weight at 4 and we will probably use a size 8 knitting needle.  Cozy is a word that does not do this hot number justice and we absolutely love it.

LB Collection® Merino Yak Alpaca

Three luxury fibers are expertly blended into one perfect yarn. The merino adds softness and bounce,

the alpaca adds luster and drape and the 15% yak adds warmth and a bit of mystery to this luxury yarn.

This classic worsted weight has a generous amount of yardage for a 50g ball. What does this mean?

Surprisingly light weight projects that work up quickly and don't take a huge bite out of your wallet!

 CYC #4 Medium

 126 yd / 116 m

 1.75 oz / 50 g

 70% Merino, 15% Alpaca, 15% Yak

 Hand Wash, Lay Flat to Dry

Cotton is a fabulous fiber and one of the best you can work with in the summertime.  Despite our love of fine wool, we do not want to be near it when it is hazy, hot and humid and actually we cannot even touch it without extreme air conditioning.  Not to mention the fact that wool is not wearable now!  Enter 24/7 Cotton DK.  This is quite a light yarn, literally and we adore it in White.  The color here is titled: Sugarcane and of course en Francais, the second language of Whom You Know, it reads Canne a Sucre.  Ooooh we love that French must be their second language too and we suspect maybe they have quite a market in Canada.  This is sold in 3.5 oz and measures in at 273 yards a ball.  It's 100 percent cotton.  Knitting needles are recommended at a size 6 and we might even go a little smaller.  Crochet with G.

24/7 Cotton DK

Our fan-favorite 24/7 Cotton yarn now comes in a light (CYC #3) weight!! 24/7 Cotton DK is an easy-care, 100% cotton yarn with a lovely sheen and drape, making it perfect for year-round garments, shawls, home décor, bath and kitchen accessories, and baby items. Choose from a variety of colors, from cheerful hues to sophisticated neutrals. You’ll get 273 yards in each 100-gram ball.

 CYC #3 Light

 273 yd / 250 m

 3.5 oz / 100 g

 100% Cotton

 Machine Wash Gentle, Tumble Dry Low

It really does feel like heaven and this classy number in 100 percent nylon we feel is great for any time of year to work with or wear and we commend its versatility.  Also it is 3.5 oz per ball and a length of 246 yards.  Like the previous yarn a size 6 needle is recommended for knitting however an H is recommended for crochet.  Periwinkle is our favorite color of this series and can be dressed up or down going just as great with casual shorts as a dressy look to keep your shoulders covered in an air-condition setting.  

Feels Like Heaven

Feels Like Heaven is here to become your new favorite soft yarn. This appropriately named CYC3 begs to

be stitched into garments and accessories that will be worn against the skin. The slightly heathered look

and smooth plies will complement all stitch patterns. And since it’s 100% nylon (machine wash and dry),

this yarn is suitable for all ages.

 CYC #3 Light

 246 yd / 225 m

 3.5 oz / 100 g

 100% Nylon

 Machine Wash & Lay Flat to Dry

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#FashionAlert #KnittingPeachy Lion Brand and JOANN Stores Join Forces to Support Anti-Bullying Campaign #HATNOTHATE

Nearly 900 JOANN stores will begin featuring #HATNOTHATE display cases this month, stocked with blue Lion Brand yarn to support the campaign's 2022 goals.

As part of Lion Brand Yarn Company's ongoing support of the anti-bullying campaign #HATNOTHATE, the leading knitting and craft yarn distributor in the U.S. announced today its new collaboration with JOANN Stores, which is stocking blue Lion Brand yarn in 860 in-store display cases to promote #HATNOTHATE's 2022 campaign.

"We're so excited about this collaboration, which represents the shared goal between Lion Brand and our longtime retail partner JOANN to support the powerful #HATNOTHATE campaign," said Jessica Hendrickson, Creative Director, Lion Brand Yarn Company. "These displays will raise awareness for #HATNOTHATE's anti-bullying efforts and the yarn will give makers the tools they need to create hats to donate to the cause."

Founded in 2018 by crafter and activist Shira Blumenthal, #HATNOTHATE has collected nearly 100,000 blue hats, donated from knitters, crocheters, and loomers worldwide and distributed to schools across the U.S. as part of an educational mission to help end bullying. The new collaboration with Lion Brand and JOANN marks the first in-store retail activation of #HATNOTHATE.

"We couldn't be more proud to devote space in our stores to #HATNOTHATE, which has shown consistent dedication and support to those impacted by bullying," said Mike Caserta, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Basic Craft, JOANN. "Blue is the primary anti-bullying color, and in the branded displayers within our stores, creators will find a variety of blue Lion Brand yarns to use to create hats to make a difference."

Those Lion Brand yarns include a variety of styles, too, such as customer favorites from Wool Ease and Vanna's Choice to Hometown and Heartland. The vibrant displayers – which feature #HATNOTHATE information and insignia – are also part of the anti-bullying campaign's refined mission for 2022, which involves new calls to action for supporters and volunteers.

"For 2022, our goal is to involve the community, from yarn shops to libraries, to be drop-off points for #HATNOTHATE," said Blumenthal. "In the past, we have asked makers and drop-off points to send us the hats, which would then be distributed to participating schools; however, this year we want the community to be more involved in the process and give makers the opportunity to see their handmade hats in their local schools."

With drop-off points as the new focal point of the campaign – and helpers at those points responsible for receiving, sorting and distributing donated hats – #HATNOTHATE will be returning the favor by promoting each drop-off point via its social media channels and its website, while working to find local schools nearby to receive the hats. To date, #HATNOTHATE has established drop-off points in 31 U.S. states. Participating establishments range from craft stores and fitness centers to hair salons and even automotive shops.

ABOUT LION BRAND YARN COMPANY

Lion Brand Yarn Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned business and one of the leading knitting and craft yarn distributors in the United States. Lion Brand yarns are sold online and at craft chains, discount chains, and independent shops across the country. Via their website, they ship to virtually every country in the world. More than 80 different types of yarn can be purchased on LionBrand.com, in addition to tools and accessories. Since 1878, Lion Brand has inspired and educated knitters and crocheters. Today, research shows that knitting and crocheting help relieve stress through the soothing, repetitive motions of the craft and by helping people achieve a creative outlet that produces tangible and valuable products.

ABOUT JOANN STORES

For 75 years, JOANN has inspired creativity in the hearts, hands, and minds of its customers. From a single storefront in Cleveland, Ohio, the nation's leading fabric and craft retailer has grown to include more than 865 stores across 49 states and an industry-leading e-commerce business. With the goal of helping every customer find their creative Happy Place, JOANN serves as a convenient single stop for all of the supplies, guidance, and inspiration needed to achieve any project or passion. For store locations, project ideas, and a full product offering, visit joann.com.

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#FashionAlert #KnittingPeachy The Lion Brand 2022 Culture Report Highlights the Top 10 Trends in Knitting and Crocheting

Influencers and Lion Brand's Trend Watchers Round Up Culture-Defining Knitting and Crocheting Trends, From Mental Health to the Metaverse

As knitting and crocheting break into mainstream culture from the runways to the metaverse, the Lion Brand 2022 Culture Report reveals the top 10 trends to watch this year.   Obviously here at Whom You Know we know that knitting has always been mainstream among our readers!  Compiled by Lion Brand Yarn Company's influencers and trend watchers, the trends range from nostalgia to knitwear in the metaverse and space dyes.  We are thrilled to kick off our coverage of Lion Brand Yarn.

Lion Brand Yarn 2022 Culture Report

Lion Brand Yarn Co.

"We created the Lion Brand 2022 Culture Report to capture the excitement we're seeing around knitting and crocheting in culture," said Lion Brand Social Media Manager, Samantha Brunson. "These crafts have always enjoyed a devout following of creators and hobbyists from around the globe. But more and more, we're seeing crafting, products, and creators leading cultural conversations and setting new trends."

These are the top 10 trends highlighted in this year's culture report:

1. Space Dyes: 2021 marked the year with the most space launches in history, ushering in Space Dyeing—the trend combines yarns with multiple colors for a visually intriguing look.

2. Y2K + Crochet: When Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady donned matching crochet bucket hats, creators took note of this Y2K staple, creating their own eye-catching looks.

3. Knitwear in the Metaverse: A testament to the enduring appeal and adaptability of the craft, knitting is going virtual into the newest spaces.

4. Florals: We're seeing florals take root in 2022, especially after winter Olympic athletes received stunning cashmere bouquets—a sustainable alternative to real flowers.

5. Mental Health: Knitting and crocheting have been linked to stress-busting benefits, helping people feel happier and calmer.  For this reason, Lion Brand selected the cheery tone Golden Sunshine for its Color of the Year 2022.

6. Nostalgia: Nostalgic patterns, like Granny Squares, continue to amass a growing fanbase amongst designers, models, celebrities, and creators.

7. Global Community Connection: The global crafting community connected like never before during the pandemic, and a new generation is helping creators communicate with one another.

8. Temperature Blankets: With stitched rows recording daily temperatures, the temperature blankets are helping people get more in touch with the climate crisis facing the planet.

9. Authenticity: Creators are standing up for themselves and calling attention to the problem of knitwear knock-offs on social media.

10. At-Home Comfort Anywhere: After two years of WFH and binging TV on the couch, creators are embracing and reimagining comfort in entirely new ways.

ABOUT LION BRAND YARN COMPANY

Lion Brand Yarn Company is a fifth-generation, family-owned business and one of the leading knitting and craft yarn distributors in the United States. Lion Brand yarns are sold online and at craft chains, discount chains, and independent shops across the country. Via their website, they ship to virtually every country in the world. More than 80 different types of yarn can be purchased on LionBrand.com, in addition to tools and accessories. Since 1878, Lion Brand has inspired and educated knitters and crocheters. Today, research shows that knitting and crocheting help relieve stress through the soothing, repetitive motions of the craft and by helping people achieve a creative outlet that produces tangible and valuable products.

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#KnittingPeachy Craft Yarn Council hosting first-of-its-kind virtual yarn competition à la "The Great British Bake Off"

The Great Yarn Challenge brings together the yarn industry's biggest players to promote theme-based challenges that drive participation in yarn crafts

Do you love challenge-based TV shows like "Top Chef" and "LEGO Masters"? Have you ever watched "The Great British Baking Off" or "Making It" and wondered what these shows would be like if the challenges were based on yarn crafts?

The Great Yarn Challenge (TGYC) is a new fiber-based virtual competition hosted by the Craft Yarn Council and is open to seasoned and new yarn crafters. Participants compete for the chance to win prizes and recognition of their fiber skills. The two-month long campaign, which began February 1 and runs through March 25, 2022, features weekly themed challenges to encourage crafters to think outside the box and create their most inspired projects.

"The Great Yarn Challenge is centered around inspiring yarn crafters to take their skills to the next level," said Jenny Bessonette, executive director of the Craft Yarn Council. "Our goal is to inspire fiber artists to create their most original projects and use yarn in ways they never have before."

The challenges not only feature everyday crafters, but also prominent influencers within the yarn industry. Maurice Greene, an MMA fighter known as "The Crochet Boss", is taking part as a representative for Lion Brand Yarn and is collecting hats from Warm Up America! to hand out to his local community. Famed crochet prodigy Jonah Larson, who shot to international fame in 2019 for his stitching prowess and regularly appears on "The Drew Barrymore Show", is representing yarn company Yarnspirations.

The campaign consists of six challenge themes: Spruce Up Your Space; Babies & Fur Babies; Yarn in the Wild; Just Wear It; a Warm Up America! Stitch Your State challenge, where crafters will create 7" by 9" blanket sections that represent their home state; and Stitch It Forward, which focuses on teaching a yarn craft to someone else.

Crafters in the U.S. and Canada are welcome to participate in The Great Yarn Challenge. People who already know how to craft with yarn are encouraged to submit projects, as well as those who don't yet know a yarn craft. For more information about the campaign, visit the TGYC website.

ABOUT THE CRAFT YARN COUNCIL

The Craft Yarn Council (CYC), incorporated in 1981, is a nonprofit trade association representing manufacturers and distributors of yarns used in knitting, crocheting and other crafts, tool and accessory manufacturers, publishers of magazines and books, and industry consultants. The Craft Yarn Council mission is to foster a community of yarn crafters by stimulating current knitters and crocheters, inspiring new yarn crafters and initiating education and promotional campaigns to ensure a healthy future for the yarn industry.

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#ReadThis #KnittingPeachy #FashionAlert #AliceStarmore #AranKnitting Highly Recommended by #WhomYouKnow @ManhattanPeachy New and Expanded Edition

There are two kinds of people in this world: 

Those that are Irish and those that wish they were!

St. Patrick's Day is in 36 days and parade or no parade (if no parade we are having our own ESPECIALLY since there wasn't one last year) it's time to start looking Irish, which is fashionable 365 days a year.  Celtic Cables never go out of style, and Alice Starmore (Scottish) is a legend in knitwear design.  

Not only is this a work of intricate patterns clearly laid out for the reader in an approachable manner, but also it details the history or lack thereof of the Aran Sweater, a fashion staple.  Everyone should have at least a dozen.  And, when you knit it yourself you can get exactly what you want!  We love Starmore's straightforward commentary and tell-it-like-it-is nature!  Retail is not what it used to be sadly, but really is there anything better than bespoke?!?!!!!

Starmore pays homage to geometry and symmetry, both signature traits of classic beauty throughout the ages.  She has her own designs included that are also timeless but were created by her and belong to her!  The patterns enclosed are incredible and we can guarantee that you cannot find them online.  We looked.  You NEED this book.  If you can read, you can knit.

We liked how part four addressed the historical impact of fashion and we hold fashion in high regard as an art form; every year since 2009 in May except last year of course because no one went because it couldn't happen, we have gone to the press preview at The Met for The Costume Institute and Peachy Deegan even interviewed Anna Wintour in person in 2009 and 2010.  These Aran designs belong in every worthy museum and shown here they are in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.  (When she was a student at UCC Peachy visited this museum and met an entire class of 9 year old boys from Finglas.  She sent them Oreos and they wanted to know how she "talked like that." Obviously Peachy has an American accent from Connecticut because that is where her Irish ancestors settled.  If you are one of those boys we want to know what happened to you we have your letters back still!)

Our favorite is page 158 St. Brigid!  

Learn something new.  Escape the drudgery of this era.  Take a Trip to Ireland's Aran Islands with a Scottish knitwear designer.  Long live the Celtics!  Boston included.

Aran Knitting by Alice Starmore is Highly Recommended by Whom You Know.

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The definitive guide to designing and knitting in the Irish Aran tradition, this highly sought after book returns to print after a decade's absence in a revised and expanded version. The author of many knitting classics, Alice Starmore is internationally renowned as a knitwear designer and an expert on knitting technique. In this guide, she presents a fascinating history of Aran knitting and an analysis of the traditional style, in addition to a complete workshop in technique, pattern, and design.

"Highly recommended" by Library Journal, this volume offers step-by-step instructions, photographs, and drawings. It provides complete directions and charted patterns for the original edition's fourteen designs — many of them reknit in contemporary yarns — plus a new design. Patterns include the St. Brigid, one of the author's most popular hand-knitted designs, which represents a step forward from Aran knitting into the realm of Celtic design. Brilliant color photographs depict all of the finished caps, sweaters, and shawls. Sixty easy-to-read charted patterns guide readers through the design process and encourage the development of unique patterns. Beginners and experienced knitters alike will cherish this comprehensive guide to a beloved craft.

Expanded and updated version of the Interweave Press, Loveland, Colorado, 1997 edition.

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4 Questions with Alice Starmore: An Exclusive Dover Interview

Alice Starmore has a fascinating tale to tell. We spoke to the author of the #1 crafts bestseller Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting about her knitting background, professional start, and more.

Clearly, knitting is a deeply ingrained facet of the culture of Scotland's Outer Hebrides. Did your mother teach you to knit?

My mother taught me to knit when I was very young. She was a dressmaker as well as a knitter and our house was a place of constant creativity. I was also born at a time when most women knitted as a matter of course, and I had three aunts who had been fisher girls in their youth and were experts at making traditional fishermen's gansies.

I understand that your first language is Gaelic — do you still speak it?

Yes I still speak Gaelic. The Isle of Lewis, where I live, is in the Outer Hebrides — the heartland of Gaelic and the only place where you will hear the language in everyday use.

How did you get your start professionally?

I designed a small collection of knitwear in 1975 and successfully sold it in London boutiques. It was featured in a national newspaper and from that small beginning my knitting career evolved in ways that were quite unimaginable to me when I began.

Your books are known and loved around the world, and you've adapted design elements from the textile arts of many countries into your repertoire. Are you still discovering "new" aspects of knitting and fabric arts from other cultures?

I am interested in everything. I find inspiration in all aspects of the world around me. There is enough inspiration in the natural world on my doorstep to last many lifetimes. I am also inspired by art, culture, history, science and music. My own culture features widely in my design work but I have always been interested in other cultures and in other places. My main problem is that I cannot possibly live long enough to produce work from the amount of ideas that come into my head.

Availability Usually ships in 24 to 48 hours

ISBN 10 0486478424

ISBN 13 9780486478425

Author/Editor Alice Starmore

Page Count 224

Dimensions 8 3/8 x 10 7/8

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#ReadThis #KnittingPeachy @DoverPubs #Traditional #FairIsle #Knitting by #SheilaMcGregor #DoverPublications

Time to party like it's 1982! Get out your knitting needles: among the best things you can do in Manhattan right now or anywhere for that matter thanks to you know what and who wasn't honest and who didn't control the problem, and even worse you know who shutting everything. Everyone knows that among the preppiest hobbies is knitting and Fair Isle is not easy, so the instruction is welcome.

This is a FABULOUS weekend project and will get your mind off what is happening on the news, which you might want to divert from! Colorful patterns and detailed instructions will make your day just like Dirty Harry. There is no way you would be able to dream of these patterns yourself without this foundational instruction: a great learning tool.

Celebrate our kickoff of Dover Publications! Also fabulous is the history contained here which is just as important as the instruction itself. History matters!

Traditional Fair Isle knitting is recommended by Whom You Know.

Best enjoyed with Macallan 15-year!  

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Situated far to the north of the Scottish mainland, the Shetlands are famous for the dampness of their climate and the excellence of their wool — a pair of distinctions that fostered the development of a vibrant form of patterned knitting. Fair Isle's unusual technique employs two colors in each row; the wool not in use is stranded along the back in short loops, resulting in an extremely warm and weatherproof double fabric.

In this definitive guide, the author shows how any circular-method knitting technique can yield the popular Fair Isle patterns. Its treasury of designs features more than 70 pages of patterns that can be used for mittens, jerseys, jackets, and hats. In addition, its practical advice on designing garments and the use of color offers valuable assistance to knitters who wish to create their own patterns and seek the inspiration for an endless array of variations and adaptations.

Long out of print, this volume is well known as the best source of authentic Fair Isle patterns. Its republication offers a new generation of knitters a reliable resource for projects in the traditional and much-loved style. 31 halftones and 17 color illustrations.

Reprint of the Charles Scribner's Sons, New York, 1982 edition.

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#READTHIS #KnittingPeachy #WhomYouKnow JAPANESE STITCHES UNRAVELED 160+ STITCH PATTERNS TO KNIT TOP DOWN, BOTTOM UP, BACK AND FORTH, AND IN THE ROUND By Wendy Bernard Our Coverage Sponsored by @CoutureKnitUSA #CoutureKnit Couture Knit Custom Couture Knitwear Handmade in the U.S.A.

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***

Knitting isn't only for winter!

The lazy hazy days of summer which are coming up are also terrific for picking up a new hobby, and Abrams has some amazing choices of books to guide you along if you don't have an Aunt Bette teaching you like Peachy did.

Previously on READ THIS, KNITTING PEACHY we highly recommended their cable book, which we liked even better:

http://www.whomyouknow.com/2018/05/readthis-knittingpeachy-norah-gaughans.html#.WyVDDKdKg2w

however, if you found that to be difficult and are looking for something to start with, this book on Japanese stitches is far easier and much more acclimated to a beginner.  We definitely like how the yarn color changes and doesn't remain constant throughout the book.  If you are new to us you should know that Peachy is a color enthusiast.

Everything is explained well and as you go on from simple stitches to swatches and actual patterns, this could take many newcomers through both the summer and fall.  We love the hardcover and the accompanying photography is ideal.  It's quite well-organized with the entire first chapter devoted to knits and purls, so if you can already do those two simple stitches you've mastered the first 50 pages of this book.

Ribs, Fancy and Twisted, Cables and Lace round out the book, and these cables are far simpler than Norah's previous book we referenced above.  Our knowledge of Japanese culture is limited and our Japanese language command is non-existent, so we laud Wendy, this author, for being able to decipher the patterns she references as being a basis for this book.  

Bravo Wendy and Abrams!

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ISBN: 1-4197-2906-3

EAN: 9781419729065

Page Count: 288

Illustrations: 500 color photographs

Format: Hardcover

Rights: World/All

Additional formats: Ebook

Japanese stitch patterns are eye-catching and much sought after by devotees, but before now, they often seemed out of reach, whether locked behind Japanese-only instructions or tangled up in difficult-to-decipher illustrations. Japanese Stitches Unraveled offers 150 rare patterns inspired by these elusive and intricate Japanese stitch designs, along with fully illustrated charts, familiar symbols, and clear instructions for every single stitch. Each stitch pattern receives Bernard’s unique four-direction makeover—topdown, bottom-up, back-and-forth, and in-the-round. To showcase the knitting in action, Bernard also includes instructions for six garments as well as her famous formulas for knitting without a pattern.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Wendy Bernard is the author of The Knitting All Around Stitch Dictionary, Up, Down, All-Around Stitch Dictionary, and the Custom Knits series. Her popular blog, Knit and Tonic (www.knitandtonic.net), has thousands of fans, and her knitwear patterns have been published everywhere, from Knitty and Stitch Diva Studios to Interweave Knits and Knitscene magazines. She teaches top-down knitting on Creativebug, Craftsy, and via her DVD series (Interweave) . Bernard lives in Thousand Oaks, California.

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