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đŸ§¶ Stitching Through the Seasons: The 2025 Mid-Year Catch-Up ✹

  • Writer: Alise Kabakoff
    Alise Kabakoff
  • Jul 1
  • 6 min read

Another year is half-way over; and again I think, where has the time gone!! It seems to happen in a blink of an eye!! So, what's been happening at Knit Me Sew Me these past six months? Well, lots, of course!! We never sit still!! From launching fresh handmade designs to connecting with new customers and expanding our creative offerings, it’s been a season full of yarn, inspiration, and community. In this newsletter, we’re excited to share highlights from the first half of the year, give you a peek behind the scenes, and let you in on what’s coming next. Let’s dive in!

 

Tariffs, What Tariffs?


With today’s unpredictable economic climate, tariffs are on everyone’s minds. So how to avoid them? Buy American! Supporting 100% USA local and handmade businesses has lots of benefits, both personal and community-wide. Here are five reasons:


Boosts the Local Economy - When you spend money at local businesses, more of that money stays within your community. Local businesses are more likely to use local suppliers, hire local workers, and reinvest profits locally. It’s a win for jobs, schools, and infrastructure.


Higher Quality and Unique Products - Small-batch and handmade goods often come with better craftsmanship and attention to detail. You get something unique, not mass-produced 
 perfect for gifts or personal treasures that stand out.


Lower Environmental Impact - Local products don’t need to be shipped halfway across the world, meaning a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, many artisans focus on sustainability when choosing materials for their products.


You Know Where Your Goods Come From - There’s something powerful about knowing the story behind what you buy, who made it and how it was made. It’s transparency you can feel good about.


Supports the American Dream - Every purchase from a local business supports real people chasing real goals, not faceless corporations. You’re investing in someone’s passion, creativity, and hustle and that’s amazing.


Don’t pass up this opportunity to support small and independently owned 100% American businesses. You and your community will be glad that you did.


Crafty Ladies

 

Knit Me Sew Me had a very successful return to Crafty Ladies in March. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces after such a long absence! SAVE THE DATE - The fall boutique will be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 4 and 5; and we are already confirmed to participate. By the way, if you haven't met my twin sister, Sharon, she will be there helping me.

 

I have been busy booking events for the fall/holiday season. If you hear of any event that you think will work for Knit Me Sew Me, I would appreciate the organizer's contact information so I can book as many events as possible. As in past years, I will be emailing event information monthly.

 

New Products Launch

 

It’s All About Heart!


Susan Husa, one of my Alignable connections, asked if I could create mini hearts to give to her clients. Well, I never turn down a challenge to make something new. The result 
 crocheted mini hearts that are tiny treasures crafted with love and care, each one unique and full of charm. They are perfect for brightening someone’s day, as well as a heartfelt way to show support, send love, or simply let someone know you’re thinking of them. Whether tucked into a drawer, resting on a shelf or desk, or left as a surprise, these little hearts carry big warmth. They will certainly bring smiles all around! Check them out at https://www.knitmesewme.com/product-page/mini-hearts.


Red, Pink and White Crocheted Mini Hearts
Red, Pink and White Crocheted Mini Hearts

New Frog Hats

 

These beauties were made as a special order for a wonderful woman to give to her two grandchildren. Turns out, they were a huge hit and an easy decision to add them to Knit Me Sew Me's Animal Menagerie of kids hats. 🐾 Each one is lovingly made with soft, cozy yarn and topped with those signature froggy eyes for extra charm. Perfect for kids, they’re sure to bring smiles wherever you go. Whether it's for a gift, costume, or just because—these hats are toad-ally irresistible! 💚 See them here: https://www.knitmesewme.com/product-page/frog-hat.


Two children wearing Frog Hats
Two children wearing Frog Hats

Ready, Set, Goal!

 

Setting goals is like planting seeds đŸŒ±â€ŠÂ  you might not see growth overnight, but with care and consistency, something beautiful begins to bloom. I’ve learned that the clearest path to progress is writing it down, believing in the outcome, and taking one small step at a time đŸ–Šïžâœš. Whether it’s a business milestone or a personal dream, the magic starts the moment you decide it matters đŸ’«. Check out the YouTube video below.

 


Alignable Member Success Series

 

I was honored to be a featured guest on the May 14th Alignable Member Success Series. During this event, I was able to share how Alignable helped me grow Knit Me Sew Me, as well as building meaningful connections through the platform. Uncover the magic in the following video.


Thumbnail of Alignable Member Success Series

And speaking of Alignable, I am deeply honored and humbled to have been chosen as the West Hills Local Business Person of the Year for the fourth year in a row, as well as being in the North America Top 50 and the North America Top 50 Women. This recognition is not just a reflection of my efforts but a testament to the incredible support, encouragement, and kindness I have received from this wonderful community. The friendships I have made along the way and the unwavering belief they have shown in me mean more than words can express. From the bottom of my heart, I can't thank them enough for being part of this journey—I am truly grateful to serve and grow alongside such an amazing group of people.


Purple and White Alignable 2025 Local Business Person of the Year and 2025 Top 50 Badges
Purple and White Alignable 2025 Local Business Person of the Year and 2025 Top 50 Badges

Knitspirations

 

Ever have one of those days where you need a bit of "inspiration?" Well, we have you covered with our new "Knitspirations" posts. These are thoughtful one-liners to give you a bit of inspiration during your day. They are posted on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Alignable. We hope these will help you make it through whatever life throws at you.

Green, white and grey Knitspirations graphic containing a quote from Theodore Roosevelt
Green, white and grey Knitspirations graphic containing a quote from Theodore Roosevelt

I was a guest on 


 

I was so excited to share a bit of the journey behind Knit Me Sew Me with Rhonda Cox of Amazing by Grace LLC! đŸ§¶âœ‚ïžÂ Curious how it all came together? See what it's all about. 🎧✹



More Special Order Requests

 

I am truly amazed by the number of special orders I receive. It's also very thrilling to create one-of-a-kind pieces for my customers. Recently, I created a set of strawberry hot pads for Amy and a Professor Quackers for Nadya. Below are photos of the final products. 


Four red, white and green hot pads in the shape of a strawberry
Four red, white and green hot pads in the shape of a strawberry
Lucky Ducky, aka "Professor Quackers" - bright yellow and orange Ducky wearing a black graduation cap with a gold tassel
Lucky Ducky, aka "Professor Quackers" - bright yellow and orange Ducky wearing a black graduation cap with a gold tassel

Want something special? We're her to make your vision a reality!

 

Lucky Ducky Cruises the Trade Routes of the Middle East

 

Lucky Ducky had a fabulous time on his latest cruise. This one started in Oslo and then had stops in northern Europe, southern United Kingdom, Portugal and Spain. Check out the entire playlist below or watch it on Knit Me Sew Me's YouTube channel at Ducky Getting Ready for Europe!. Want to keep current with Lucky Ducky's adventures, then 👉 hit that subscribe button and join in the fun!



Kind Words, Warm Hearts: What Our Customers Are Saying 💬

 

Enjoy two of our latest testimonials from two fabulous individuals!


Lena Ehrenberg writes: “I highly recommend Alise from Knit Me Sew Me. She is thoughtful, dedicated to serving her customers’ needs and whims, and always steps in to offer assistance in any way possible. This is a product-based business with a truly service-oriented, multi-talented owner!”


Chris Burns says: “If you haven't already, you should check out Knit Me Sew Me for any of your upcoming gift giving needs. Alise makes some incredible handmade knitted and crocheted products that are not only beautiful but also high quality. Knit Me Sew Me is truly one of a kind.”


If you haven't already done so, please leave a review for Knit Me Sew Me on our Google Business Profile. Leaving a review really helps our analytics, and every little bit helps. Here is the link: https://g.page/r/CaEM8QL6toojEB0/review.

 

Finally, what's in the bags?

 

Time never stands still at Knit Me Sew Me. Even though it's summer (the quiet season), I am working my little fingers to the bone!! So what's in store for the fall? The photo below shows bags of new products that are ready for inventory. (I already inventoried two additional bags of products!) There will be lots of products, including new colors to choose from, so stay tuned!


Bags containing new hats, head wraps and fingerless gloves
Bags containing new hats, head wraps and fingerless gloves

Have a wonderful rest of the summer. As for me, Lucky Ducky, Auntie Sharon and I will be heading back to Europe for a river cruise. We'll be compiling videos and photos upon our return. Stay safe, keep cool and hydrated. Summer is forecasted to be very hot once again.


Until next time.


Alise

















 
 
 

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