Simply Socks Yarn Co. Blog

2014 project contest

Knitting was certainly my oasis of calm and relaxation this year. With a family to care for and a business that continued to grow and change, it was certainly a packed year. But I did finish a few projects, started even more, and was energized by some of the projects you showed off, like a few of these.
Want to show off one or more of your projects you finished this year? Leave a comment below before noon EST on Tuesday, Jan 6 and you could win a FREE three month subscription to our soon-to-be announced next Sock Yarn Club. You need to leave a link to your Ravelry project page in the blog comments below so we can all see your project, and perhaps tell us a bit about it. One entry per person, but you are welcome to leave a link to more than one project in that one comment if you want.
Hope 2014 was a good one for you, and that 2015 is even better!

Tuesday Tease

And what a tease this is.

If you'd like to start off the new year with some new organizational tools for your knitting, have I got a deal. On January 1, we'll have a super selection of superb quality totes, box bags, zippered project pouches and accessory carry-alls. Adorable options for keeping your projects safe and tidy, and all at 40-60% off. Here's a bit of a preview.

Just some of the box bags. Three zippered compartments. Water resistant fabric. Great for knitting projects, toiletries, you name it. Regularly $20, you'll find them for $12.

Totes. Oversized, adorable bags in a variety of designs. Eight compartments inside, and a large pocket on the outside that even unzips at the bottom if you want to pull it over the handles of your rolling luggage. Regularly $75, you'll find it in the sale section on January 1 for just $30. I KNOW, right?!? I feel like Santa Claus.

There's more. Lots more. If you want to treat your projects with the attention and protection they deserve while looking darn cute doing it, check the website on January 1. I still can't believe I secured such a deal on these. You can bet I'll be toting around one of these every day. Rachel's showing off one here. We fit two winter coats in there for the photo. You could easily tote around a huge project, or use one of the many inside pockets to hold a few projects and all your daily goods while going about your business or traveling.

 

Twelfth Day of Sock Yarn

On the twelfth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

two balls of new Cascade Heritage Prints!

To have a chance at two balls of your choice from Cascade's new self-pattering sock yarn line, simply answer the following question in the comments below:

Did you knit or crochet any self-patterning sock yarn this year? If so, did you make socks with it? Or did you make something else?

I am a consistent knitter of self-patterning and self-striping sock yarn. I especially love knitting Opal, Trekking XXL and Regia not only because the color changes keep me invigorated, but also because the socks are easy care. I can wash them with all my other clothes in the washing machine and not worry. I could even machine dry if I wanted to, but I don't because I know that over time that hot air will really break down any fiber. I do know that if I hand washed these socks instead of machine wash that they would likely last longer, but my life is just not in the time-for-hand-washing stage. So I know that if I want to wear hand knit socks every day all winter long, I'd better have a decent selection of these easy-care socks in my sock drawer or my feet will go cold before I make time to hand wash.

I've seen awesome non-sock projects knit with self patterning sock yarn this year. Clincher scarves like this one, or skirts like this one made with Poste Yarn and this skirt pattern. So inspiring. If you've knit something that you adore, please leave a link to your Ravelry project page with your comment.

Thank you so much for sharing in our special 12-day contest this year. The amount of participation is nearly double this year over last year. It's been a fun six years of this fibery holiday for me, and I hope for you too. I love reading each response and being inspired by your creativity and your experience. If you haven't had a chance to read through all the 12 Days of Sock Yarn, the links to the days will show up on the right side of the page for a few more days, and of course are available in the archives link at right. I'll announce the winners of the contest in January here on this blog and the winners will also be e-mailed.

We are taking the next few days off here, so I do hope you all have a lovely Christmas if you're celebrating, and a relaxing and happy week if you're not. Thanks so much for your continued support of my shop. 2015 will mark our 10th year in business, and I can't wait to share all the awesome goodies we're adding this coming year.

Eleventh Day of Sock Yarn

On the eleventh day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

two skeins of Poste Yarn's Striping Sock!

To have a chance at these two special striping test colors that we dyed up in our studio, answer the following question in the comments below:

How many knitted or crocheted projects have you finished this year? No need to be exact if you have just a general idea. And you're welcome to link to your Ravelry project page if you want to show them off to us. We'd all love to see them! For me, it's probably around 12. Our website revamp this summer rendered me with no free time for months, and raising wee ones doesn't help either. I started a lot more than I actually finished. Like my first sweater! Rachael (who is diligently shipping out all your orders today before we close for a few days for Christmas) says that she has finished 20-ish projects this year. Heather, who manages the place and is right now finished reskeining all the Poste Yarn holiday striping colors (Jollyville, Rockefeller and Santa Claus) that just went on the website for the last time this year, says she will have finished 83 projects finished. EIGHTY THREE. She's a rockstar. And it's not just small projects she's finished. She's knit many sweaters for herself. Here's her list of finished projects from last year, which I think will be topped by this year's. WOW.

Want to read the rules of this contest? Find 'em here.

Tenth Day of Sock Yarn

On the tenth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

an adorable Hadaki sock project Box Bag!

To have a chance at this bag, which we'll soon a have ton of options in the sale section in January at an unbeatable price, simply answer the following question in the comments section below:

Is there a tool you've started using, or a new technique that you've adopted this year that has made your craft even more enjoyable? Perhaps you learned to kitchener your toes, making your socks last longer? Or perhaps you've discovered the warmth and durability of Karbonz needles? Tell us something that's made your knitting easier or more enjoyable this year. Whatever that may be.

I've discovered that for all the time I put into knitting, I need to care for it well while making the project. Why spend $28 for cashmere blend socks or $120 on yarn for a sweater, and haul it around in a paper bag?  So now, I have adorable, well-made bags of various sizes for different projects. I bet I have over a dozen Bird Leg Bags now, and a few Hadaki bags as well. And two Amy Butler bags. Apparently I've collected more bags this year than yarn! Most are the sock rectangles from Bird Leg Bags, but I also have a few other sizes. For me, I've learned that for all the time and money I put into each project, I should also allow myself the right needles, bags and accessories to make my experience even more easy and enjoyable. I asked Rachael (youre shipping diva) what she's started doing this year that's made her knitting experience better, and she said that her new phone allows her to download all her patterns to it. So she has full color patterns on her phone (from Ravelry) that she can zoom in or out with ease. And she has her pattern with her at all times.

 

Ninth Day of Sock Yarn

On the ninth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

three skeins of Cascade Heritage 150 Paints!

To have a chance at these three skein of sport weight lovliness, simply answer the following question in the comments section below:

Where is one of the more odd or unique places you've knit or crocheted? Do you have a funny story about knitting somewhere somewhat unusual? Or perhaps you went on vacation somewhere exotic and knit the whole time? Do set the scene for us!

This is one of my funniest stories about knitting. After reading that, try not to judge me too harshly, as I was pregnant. As far as knitting in odd places... well, I'll knit anywhere. I believe I actually angered my traveling companions on my recent trip to Italy because they found it nearly offensive that I would knit in all these awesome places instead of "experiencing them". I explained, as nicely as I could without poking them with my pointy sticks (it was my sister and a friend, afterall), that knitting is part of my experience. That it's quite common that my friends and I knit in bars, restaurants, music events. Anywhere. And no one finds it odd or cares in any way. In fact, nearly every person I hang out with on a regular basis is currently an avid knitter or was at one time. That I find it quite normal to see a sock project in ones hands as long as one is awake. What about you?

Eighth Day of Sock Yarn

On the eighth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

a prototype skein from our upcoming Valentine Sock Kit!

To have a chance at the special edition skein of yarn shown here (wrapped around the mug that will come with the kit along with some other goodies, for sale in mid-January) simply answer the following question in the comments below:

How do you most often plan your projects? Do you get inspired by a skein or colorway that you just have to have NOW, or do you see a pattern that you must have and then choose yarn? Or are you like I was last month, super cold and in need of warmth, so I immediately cast on a hat... four times?

I'm a sucker for color. If I see something I adore come in at work, it's common that I'll just cast on that night (though it could be a few months til I finish that second sock). Yesterday we received a new shipment from Maegan at The Cyborg's Craft Room, and of course I immediately found several skeins I had to have like Element and Cauldron Bubble.... and Forged. Darn you, Maegan! I don't have time for three new projects! If you don't want to be tempted, don't dare click on these links for Assockilate (merino/nylon) and Assparkilate (merino/nylon/sparkle) because you'll want to abandon everything else you are working on to cast on a new pair of socks or a vibrant Sockhead hat. Wait, please do click. I'm supposed to sell yarn, not hoard it all for myself. And I'm sure Maegan would also love for you to own a new skein of her artistry.

Seventh Day of Sock Yarn

On the seventh day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

two skeins of Blue Moon's Socks that Rock!

To have a chance at two of the special edition test skeins from this our recent Halloween sock kits, answer the following question in the comments section below:

If you got to design your own colorway (multi or striped) what colors would you combine and what would you name it? Would you name it after yourself or something memorable? Or would you do something zany and unexpected?

I had a great time working on these skeins with Tina and naming them was fun too. I named one Abra-Abracadabra because, well, I like that song. And I named the other one Punkin' Chunkin b/c it brings back a funny memory of Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, my husband and and I and a bit of an inside joke we shared. So for me, those names for those colorways make me giggle whenever I think of them. If you missed out on these colorways during Halloween, I found a couple extra ones and you'll find them here.

Want to read the rules of this contest? Find 'em here.

Sixth Day of Sock Yarn

On the sixth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

a Bird Leg Bag and Simply Sock Yarn Solids!

To have a chance at this gnome-yTall Skinny bag and coodinating skeins of Cherry Red yarn, simply answer the following question in the comments below:

What's your preferred method for knitting socks? Do you prefer double points? Or are you a die hard magic looper? Or do you use different methods for different reasons? Do tell!

I'm double points all the way all the time. I've given a try to both magic loop and socks on two circulars, but they were brief affairs that didn't take. Heather knits hers on double points and Rachael says she would just prefer to have them knit themselves (but really she's a magic looper). Now wouldn't that be nice? If you just did the Bewitched nod and your socks were done? Or at least that second sock that seems to take twice as long as the first?

Want to read the rules of this contest? Find 'em here.

Fifth Day of Sock Yarn

On the fifth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

a set of glitter striping Turtlepurl Yarn!

To have a chance and the striping set of your choice (two matching 50g skeins in each set, so you get two matching striped socks), simply answer the following question in the comments below:

How much time do you spend on your craft, be it knitting or crochet? Do you spend 2 hours a week? Or 42 hours a week? Would you like to spend more time, or are you content with the time you have?

I'd say I average 8-12 hours a week knitting. I knit when the boys are tucked in bed, and I typically knit simple socks in the semi-darkness while enjoying TV. Though during this time of year, I have so many work and social "obligations" that I haven't had my hands on needles for more than 2 hours a week. Knitting is my meditation, my artistic expression and my "me time", so I do definitely notice it when I don't knit as much as I'd like. Sticks and string definitely make me a happier person, so I'm sure the people close to me have noticed that I'm less, ahem, relaxed. Perhaps a bit more loud than usual. Perhaps I should remedy that this evening!

Heather (SSYC shop manager and the artist who does all the Poste Yarn wet work) says that she averages 25-30 hours of knitting, and Rachael (who is your personal shopper/shipper) says she's at about 20. What about you?

Want to read the rules of this contest? Find 'em here.

Fourth Day of Sock Yarn

On the fourth day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

three skeins of Lorna's Laces Sportmate!

To have a chance at winning the three skeins of your choice of this awesome sport weight yarn in the color/s of your choosing, simply answer the following question in the comments section below:

If you had to choose one knit or crochet project that really spoke to you this year, what would it be? Were you in love with the Sockhead hat? Or was there a particular yarn that you just felt the need to knit over and over? Did you knit through the 100+ multicolors of Shepherd Sock we have for you? Or perhaps fill your own sock drawer with fresh, new pairs? Do tell!

I'm a big fan of this Northbrook colorway. I think it would make a stunning baby garment.

Want to read the rules of this contest? Find 'em here.

Third Day of Sock Yarn

On the third day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

a gorgeous skein of Yaksi fingering weight yarn!

To have a chance at winning two skeins of your choice of the adored sock yarn from Blue Moon Fiber Arts, simply answer the following question in the comments section below:

Is there a particular cookie recipe that you and yours LOVE to indulge in this time of year? Tell us about it, and if you can leave a link so all of us can give it a try.

I'm a big fan of ginger and molasses (if Starbucks made that flavor of latte, I'd be broke). So this cookie from Martha Stewart is one that I really like (though when I want to make it I rarely have fresh ginger). But this is my new favorite. I made it for the first time this week and it is amazing. It turned out professional quality cookies and I highly recommend it. Though I'll admit that next time I might not brown the butter and instead just add a quarter cup or so of malt (because I really like malted milk in my chocolate chip cookies).

Second Day of Sock Yarn

On the 2nd Day of Sock Yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

two skeins of Patina sock yarn in Parthenon and St Basils!

To have a chance at winning these two skeins, simply answer the following question in the comments below:

What's one of your favorite things about this time of year? Do you love that it's warm where you live and you get to hear all the complaints from us northerners about how much snow we plow through to get the mail? Do you adore egg nog so much that your life is not complete til you can enjoy it? Is your family super nice to you in hopes that they get nice hand knit gifts? Tell me the something that makes this time of year oh-so-fun and special for you (silly or serious comments welcome).

Me? I like a holiday when I can wear my comfy pajamas all day and it's not seen as awkward. Joe and the kids and I will wear our pajamas all day. New ones, as one of you years ago in these comments told me that you give your family new pajamas on Christmas Eve. Brilliant. We tromp down the stairs, make coffee, open gifts, eat cinnamon rolls with bacon and fruit, and then lounge around all day. It's awesome.

First Day of Sock Yarn

On the first day of sock yarn, Simply Sock Yarn gave to me...

two balls of Regia Active in a Christmas sock monkey bag!

To have a chance at this adorable bag (from a Christmas Kit in the past) and wool/Outlast fiber yarn, simply answer the following question in the comments below:

Who received the bounty of your knitting or crocheting this year? You or others?

I definitely knit more for me. For the past few years, I'm all about keeping my own sock drawer full. And I've discovered that I love to wear cowls to keep warm. I like to wear hand knit socks every day in the winter and every since 2010 when I realized that I had a nearly empty sock drawer, well, I've made myself a priority. And I am two thirds through my first sweater. I did knit hats for Joe and James this year, and a pair and a half of socks for Joe. And I think James lost his had after two days. But he totally loved it while it lasted.

 

12 Days of Sock Yarn

Do you know what tomorrow is? It's the start of our own yarny holiday! For the sixth year, we're celebrating the 12 Days of Sock Yarn at Simply Socks Yarn Company!  From Dec. 13 through Dec. 24 you have a chance on this blog to win a special knitterly gift each day.  Could be yarn, could be accessories, and it will definitely be awesome.

How can you join in? Simply visit the SSYC Blog every day from Dec. 13 through the 24th and answer the question in the comments section before the following day's question is revealed (the comments will be closed on the previous post once the next day is up). You'll automatically be entered to win the gift shown for that day. If you participate each day, you'll have a dozen chances to win (one chance each day). And yes, you can win more than one day! It has happened before.

You don't have to participate in any particular holiday to win anything- you just have to want some awesome free yarn or goodies. I'll post winners in January, and you'll also get an e-mail if you've won a prize.

Are there any questions (knitting or not) you'd like to see asked one of the 12 days? Tell me in the comments below, and try and I'll add them to the list of questions.  The contest starts tomorrow, so make sure to check the blog every day for your chance to win!

On another festive note, for those of your waiting for more Poste Yarn 6-color striping holiday colors to be available, say hello again to Jollyville and Rockefeller Center!

 

Holiday Open House in pictures

We had a great time on Saturday at our party. Gorgeous hand knits were shown off, tasty treats were had, and Rachael and Heather wore festive duds (and a bow tie). Want to see the Ugly Christmas Sweaters and vote? Please do!

Mineville Wool Project- 50% off

Shown in Wintersleep, Stardust, Salt Spray and Spruce

Remember last month when I had that amazing deal on the fingering weight 250g skeins from Mineville Wool Project (Fleece Artist) in the sale section? Well, if you missed out on that b/c it sold out so quickly, do have a deal for you. 250g skeins (nearly 550 yards) of single ply dk weight. Super soft with colors so vibrant you'll have a hard time not casting on immediately.

Shown in Plum, Pewter, Raven and Amethyst

Each skein is 250 grams and nearly 550 yards of single-ply merino awesomeness in one skein (2.5 times the amount in a normal 100g skein). Grab one for accessories, or two or more for larger projects. You'd expect to pay $55-$60 for this much yarn at regular price. Check out the two dozen hand dyed colors I have for you now in the sale section.

Shown in Beet, Puffin, Raven and Red Maple

Here are a few things I'm considering making.

Mielie Vest by Hilary Smith Callis, shown below with permission (calls for worsted weight, but several of the projects on Ravelry used DK and I would too with a US 5 or 6 needle). I think this would be flattering to many body types. It looks like it come just below the hips, which for me is a plus and it has an interesting collar, which is good for pulling the eye up and away from those hips.

Cerus Scarf, by Hilary Smith Callis, photo used with permission

Tric by Asa Tricosa Designs

Honey Cowl by Antonia Shankland. I've been wearing this cowl for weeks, knit in another Fleece Artist sale yarn we had last year in the color Salt Spray.

Effortless Cardigan by Hannah Fettig

Looped Loop by Kirsten Johnstone

Mara Shawl by Madelinetosh

Shown in Beet, Pumpkin, Red Fox, Earth

'Tis the Season

Earlier this week I went to Walgreens to buy a few things that I need after my LASIK. Just two or three items. Walgreens seems to be one of those places that there is rarely a line- it's a quick check out process. I was in an impatient mood, and when I walked up to the queue there were two *TWO* people in front of me and one of them had a CART. Yes, that's exactly what went through my mind, caps and all. The lady in front of me had a cart full of boxes of toys and I was a little miffed that I didn't get there sooner so I was in front of her. I was feeling Scrooge-y.

Finally, it was the cart-lady's turn to check out. She had several coupons, price checks and rewards points to use for this cart of toys she was buying. So I silently huffed about how it would have taken me just 3 seconds to check out and how I didn't have time today for this.

Then, after the checker finished her job, the cart-lady asked "Do they go in here?" and picked up stacks of toys and deposited them into the Toys for Tots box. The mouth of the check out lady just dropped. Box after box, bought and donated immediately to charity. And I watched and felt like a total tool for thinking about how I didn't have two minutes to wait for this woman to do something unexpected and awesome. And I felt lucky that I had seen it.

Jolly Gnome Sock Kit now available

The kit is now available here! If you want to see details of the kit, take a look at this blog post. Our kits tend to sell out within a day, so please don't hesitate if you think this is for you. I have some awesome creations coming in early 2015, so if you miss out, just know there's more to come!

Please keep in mind that this is a super busy day for us. I (Allison) am hard to reach on the phone on days that we have a kit up for sale. So ordering online is really the only way to get one before they sell out.

I can see!

Yesterday I did something awesome. I had LASIK. I don't have to wear glasses anymore and I can see super clearly. While I haven't yet done much (I slept from 5pm til 7am this morning!), the doctors said I can go right back to work full speed. Which is good for me, because there's really not a half-way with me.

Today, I'm enjoying seeing my shop more clearly than ever before. The colors, the textures, the whole kit and caboddle. It's really cool.

I'm looking forward to knitting on my sweater without glasses. Heck, I'm looking forward to doing all my crafting without glasses. I joined this stitch along here, and if you are into cross stitch, I highly recommend the designs of Frosted Pumpkin Stitchery. They are adorable. Of course, the first part of the stitchalong was released weeks ago, and it's such a busy time of year here that I didn't order my fabric in time to start with everyone else. And I just got my thread this weekend. So NOW I'm ready to go tonight, as long as my eyes behave. I can't stress enough how much I'm looking forward to doing this with such clear vision.

Have any of you had LASIK or considered it? I thought it was going to freak me out, but it was somewhat simple.  Yesterday I showed up (there are a few appointments/exams in the weeks leading up to it) they fill you full of cookies, check you out, give you some pill to make you calm, you get a massage to help sooth you, then you're guided to the room where they do the LASIK. The procedure itself took 5 minutes or so and I don't even remember too much of it. Then they send you home and tell you to go to sleep for as long as you can. And since I'm rarely given the opportunity to sleep as long as I want, I took advantage of it.