We are so excited. Our free speaker series, Gosh’s Guests, kicks off this Saturday with Gina Thackara’s presentation on Beaded Knitting at 2:00 p.m. Gina has chosen the Koigu Beaded Beret*, above, to illustrate how beautifully and easily beads can be added to your knitting.
If you can join us for a BYOBag lunch, plan to arrive by 1:00 p.m. Drinks and dessert are on us.
To make the hat along with Gina, you’ll need to pick up the Churchmouse pattern and your supplies and knit the brim, up to beaded section, before Saturday. If you only want to practice the beading technique, you can purchase a kit for $7 that will include beads, crochet hook, and yarn. You will need to bring your own needles, either size US 2, 3, or 4.
Seating and kits are limited. Reservations are strongly recommended.
If you don’t already know Gina, you’re in for a treat. Gina says she’s “been knitting since she and Miss Marple were in middle school together.” When we asked what she loves about knitting, she had an answer ready, worthy of Miss Marple:
Every knitting project poses a mystery to be solved, be it a strange stitch or a difficult pattern. And by following the clues, one can get through to a solution — and possibly a lovely knitted object. Every pattern is basically a suggestion that gives some basics, and it is up to the knitter to suit himself/herself when it comes to the finished product. It is the skill involved that makes each knit unique. That’s why [I’m] an advocate of learning all kinds of new ways to manipulate yarn – and various accessories – to create something fun, beautiful or even wonderful.
Too many knitters think beads are only for intricate lace patterns. Here are a some other classic Churchmouse patterns that elegantly integrate beads. Whether for a hint of sparkle or to add just enough weight to an otherwise fly-away hem, beads are always in style.
Racing Raindrops Scarf*
Bias ‘Before & After’ Scarf*
Beaded Mohair Scarf* and English Mesh Lace Scarf*
We’re happy to special order Miyuki glass beads for you anytime. Ask to see our color card with 100+ colors to choose from to find the perfect match for your project.
Notice what a beautiful couple beads and silk/mohair make? We’ve added heavenly ITO Sensai to our selection of silk/mohair yarns, which also includes Sugar Bush Drizzle and Shibui Silk Cloud.
Joji Locatelli is one of the hottest designers around. Coincidentally, both FOs this post are hers. Amy knit her Hipster Shawl* in mYak Baby Yak Medium, the pattern’s suggested yarn. And it is gorgeous.
Joan made Joji Locatelli’s Tracie Shawl* with madelinetosh Pashmina. Another masterpiece!
Note: All patterns marked with an asterisk (*) are available at Gosh Yarn It!