Knit for summer now

We're back from retreat this week, relaxed, refreshed, and inspired.  The highlight of the trip was our visit with Stacy Charles and an in-person look at his beautiful spring line up as well as a peek at some really special fibers and garments in his line for fall 2016.  Great stuff you're going to love. Seems early, but as Stacy pointed out Saturday, hand-knitting is part of the fashion industry with manufacturers and designers working a full year in advance.  That cycle puts retailers working 6-10 months in advance, and consumers working three or more months in advance.  It's why there's a great selection of sundresses and bathing suits now, but there will be slim pickings if you wait till your beach trip in July.

For knitters, this advanced cycle makes good sense.  Even though it's barely spring, summer sweaters are what should be on your needles right now.  It's way too early to think about wearing a cotton shell, but it's not too early to be knitting it.  If you're going to wear it then, you gotta knit it now.  Those bright juicy colors may have felt a little off in the drizzle we've been having, but they're exactly what you'll need to stand up to the coming summer's bright sun.  Here's one I love - right on trend with its open stitch and hi-lo hemline, it showcases the beauty and texture of Tandem, one of my favorite yarns for spring.  It works up quickly with just a few skeins for some instant gratification to jump start your summer knitting.

I also love this simple little tee in chic new Mykonos.  Very current and easy to wear.

If you're still plugging away on something you started for last fall, make a note of where you are and put it away for now.  You'll be much happier to finish that project in August and wear it in September.  It will feel like instant gratification.  Get started on a summer sweater now because if you wait until it's hot, your color selection will be limited, and you may not get it finished in time to wear it.  Come choose a fabulous summer project and get started.  Summer sweaters are quick and easy, so you can have a great new garment for Memorial Day weekend, and another for Fourth of July!  But you've got to get started now while the selection of colors is good or there will be slim pickings on the shelves and you'll be sad all summer. 

I look forward to seeing you in the shop and around the table - you are always welcome here.  ~Ellen