Yarn 101 Part 1 - I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been shopping at Michaels or JoAnn and end up helping customers with their yarn questions, even though I don’t work there! I’d like to take a few minutes to share with you some yarn information that every knitter and crocheter must know before starting a project. There is lots of information on the label, so we’ll start with the two graphics below.
Gauge is the important piece of the puzzle. The very left graphic is the gauge if you are using this yarn for knitting. The graphic suggests that the best size knitting needles for this yarn is size 8 US. 18 stitches and 24 rows should equal a 4” x 4” swatch. After knitting up the swatch, if it measures more than 4” x 4”, with 18 stitches and 24 rows, then you’ll need to go down at least one needle size knitting needles. Knit the swatch again. If your swatch is smaller than 4” x 4”, go up at least one needle size and knit another swatch.
The same goes for the right graphic if you are crocheting. The gauge for crochet is a size H US hook with 13 single crochets and 14 rows to equal the 4” x 4” swatch. If the swatch is too big, go down at least one hook size and crochet another swatch. If the swatch is too small, go up at least one hook size and crochet another swatch.
The ultimate goal is to obtain the same measurements as the graphic, so your project will equal the same dimensions of the pattern.
In upcoming Part 2, I’ll talk about yarn thickness the label graphics that go with. Stay tuned!
Testimonial - This testimonial comes from comes from Nadya Tatsch, a master networker who has a substantial presence on Alignable, the small business platform. She writes - “Alise is a great networker. She is consistent with visiting groups, meeting and getting to know members. Her knitting and sewing business accompany her personalized style by providing businesses with customized quality gifts and products.”
Easter Peeps - What’s one of the best parts of Easter? It’s Easter Peeps, especially Knit Me Sew Me’s Easter Peeps! Ours are calorie-free, sugar-free and carb-free! What you’ll get are these beautifully handcrafted Easter goodies that are available in lots of different colors and will become part of your family’s keepsake collection.
First Boutique of the Year - Want to get a jump on this year’s boutique season? If yes, then this is for you. My first boutique of the year is on Saturday, March 18th. The “Made with Love Market” is a new event. It will be held at the Rio Norte Junior High, 28771 Rio Norte Drive, Valencia, California. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. I will have Easter goodies available, as well new products for Mother’s Day. Please stop by to check out this new boutique and come and say “hi.”
And, finally
Until next time!
Alise