One of the perks of working so closely with so many artisans is that I can make odd (at least to non-sock-knitters) special requests out of them on a regular basis. Like working with Tanis on last years' Valetine's Kit or this year's Anniversary kit. Because we are like minded, to her it's normal when I say, "hey, I want a special sock yarn that reminds me of the clotheslines that I pass when I drive home". Saying that phrase at somewhere like Home Depot would get you nowhere, but saying that phrase to the right person at the right time will get you exactly what you want.
That's why when I started dreaming up the SSYC Grand Opening Sock Kit, I knew I had to approach the right dyer with my request. I wanted the skein to knit up in a certain way- no pooling, no striping. Just randomly dappled, subtle color. What did I want to emulate?
The 1940's post office tile on the store's walls.
When I approached Dream in Color about it, Veronica was not only all about it, but she returned a spot-on skein within days. Here's a sneak peak at Rapunzel Rose. Wheat, mustard, pale olive and blushed terra cotta. What do you think?
James came with me to work today for his first "full" day (7am til nap time). I bought some cheap new toys for him to have as his special store toys, and he's being quite delightful and awesome right now. But none of these new offerings are as interesting as the new Pagewood Farms price booklet which is printed in black and white and has a sheep on the front he can color. Thanks, Chuck and Robyn, for the new coloring book! Heh.
If you want to see a short video of James at work, it's on our Facebook page.
Gorgeous skein of yarn! Can't wait!
Posted by: Ruth Anne | August 12, 2011 at 10:12 AM
Surprise. The colors are so subtle and gentle. Gorgeous. Is this what you see in northern Indiana in late summer? It would commemorate the time of year when your shop opened.
Posted by: mary | August 12, 2011 at 10:14 AM
How lovely!
Posted by: Nancy | August 12, 2011 at 10:23 AM
They are gorgeous. I hope I am able to get the kit seeing as I won't make it to the grand opening.
Posted by: Vivian Johnson | August 12, 2011 at 10:32 AM
The skein is beautiful and a perfect look to match the tiles. Waiting for more info on the kit. August 20 is just getting better!
Posted by: Judy W | August 12, 2011 at 10:41 AM
I really like the colors-
Posted by: Lulynn | August 12, 2011 at 11:13 AM
Oh.. you have caught my attention but good. Loverly yarn.. I'm drooling.. can't wait for the kit to come out!! I hope to try and make your grand opening..
Posted by: natalie | August 12, 2011 at 11:16 AM
Beautiful...as always. Looking forward to seeing what the rest of the kit might be. Your store is wonderful and I'm living vicariously through you. Wish I could be there for the grand opening, but PA is a bit far away. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and success!
Posted by: Kim B. | August 12, 2011 at 12:06 PM
I want that!! I love to knit hats with sock yarn - and this would be super fantastic -- hat and mitts!
Posted by: Leslie B. Fehr | August 12, 2011 at 12:59 PM
Eight days and yes, I am counting! :) Colors look fabulous!
Posted by: April | August 12, 2011 at 01:31 PM
Beautiful colors Allison. Good luck with the grand opening!!
Posted by: Sara Lunden | August 12, 2011 at 01:42 PM
Full approval on the latest color!
Posted by: Cathy G. | August 12, 2011 at 02:23 PM
It's perfect. Save a kit for me, I know what I'm asking for for my birthday!
Posted by: Penelope D | August 12, 2011 at 03:43 PM
Gorgeous colorway & it exactly matches the tile. Can't wait to score some. Hope I don't miss out (I'm in Louisiana with the grands right now & don't get to the computer very often.
Posted by: Donna | August 12, 2011 at 05:42 PM
I think it's beautiful, and I hope to snag a kit. Will they be posted on the website?
Posted by: nonstopknit | August 12, 2011 at 05:58 PM
Very pretty!
Posted by: Jill | August 12, 2011 at 06:30 PM
The Grand Opening kit will be available in about a week and I'll definitely post a blog about it when it is. I'm so happy to hear so many of you like inspiration for the colorway!
Posted by: Allison | August 13, 2011 at 11:44 AM