3/17/23 I’ve begun moving my newsletter to Substack!
March 2023
Here in Northern California we are facing day after day of rain, a blessing after years of drought but we are, perhaps, overdoing it! Nature is not known for balance—the beautiful blossoms on our plum tree are extravagant, and only a fraction of them will result in fruit. I’m not sure where I’m going with this thought except to say that the fact of the matter is that we need water and I’m tired of rain!!!
I taught at Stitches West last weekend, my last public teaching on my calendar. I’m looking forward to turning inward, exploring new design themes, writing up old designs, and perhaps trying out new creative pursuits. It’s a bit scary, to be honest!
The Ireland trip has one shared spot left! Jillian Moreno and I have worked hard to create a two-week fiber experience that will cover all the bases: scenery, mills, sheep farms, goat cheese, classes, yarn shops, distillery…. I’d love if you could join us!
Whichever directions your life takes I hope that you face them with an open heart and open hand.
love,
Janine ❤️
Not-Quite-News but perhaps of interest…..
The Redbud Vest pattern is now available in a digital version! When converting it from the paper version I corrected a few issues and added more information about steeking. If you purchased a paper copy of the pattern you can find all corrections on Ravelry; you can download the steek information here.
Because I’m not teaching this year I’ve reduced the price of the large yarn packs — 30% off. These packs consist of 12 shades of Jamieson’s Shetland Spindrift—I’ve created a number of color ways that are especially useful if you aren’t sure about choosing colors or if you don’t have a nearby yarn shop.
Are you new to Fair Isle knitting? Let me recommend my two patterns geared to beginners: Dryas Octopetala, a slouchy hat, and the Beginner’s Fair Isle Cap, a small, close-filling cap. Both these patterns include motifs that build in complexity, giving you a chance to build your confidence in carrying two colors at a time.
My approach to Fair Isle knitting is modern and very personal; my goal is to share my deep appreciation for this type of knitting and to help you develop the confidence to plunge into this world of color and pattern.
My newsletter is where you will get the most current information about teaching and travel and new patterns, so please sign up if you haven’t already!
WHAT IS A FERAL KNITTER?