Happy New Year

Gene and I are settled in for the evening, all the animals are fed (none were talking). We may watch the ball drop in New York. Above is the new and larger one described in all its glory with history included on Times Square Alliance website.

What we won't be doing is going out to celebrate. Although 2008 had its share of downs, for me personally, it had more and higher highs and I am looking forward to the surprises of 2009. We do wish all of you the best for the coming year.

Brrrr - Ready the The Anne Wrap

Many months ago I wrote about kniting The Anne Wrap, a pattern from Kalamazoo Knits. I finished it early summer but never got around to photographing it for you to see. Well, now I am really enjoying being wrapped in this nice design and here it is.


Friday evening, Dec. 19, I will be displaying some of my hand dyed yarns and hand felted hats at the resurrected Baker Furniture Building located in the Historic Milling District of Downtown Allegan. About 2 years ago, Deb and Joe Leverence of Dearborn Michigan began the revitalization of this century old building, now known as Baker Allegan Studios. Acting as their own general contractor, and doing nearly all of the building themselves, the Leverence’s have worked tirelessly, making the drive across the state every weekend to put their heart and soul as well as their life’s savings into their dream. The newly restored, and handicap accessible building provides 6 working artists studios for rent in the lower level. The main floor has a 1000 sq. ft. Art Gallery, and the 2000 sq. ft. Fiber Arts Studio of Sow Spun Silk, the weaving and spinning shop belonging to Debbie Leverence. The top level will eventually become their apartment.

If you are near us, plan to stop by, more than a dozen artists from Allegan, Detroit and Grand Rapids will be featured.

Gifts for the Holiday Season

The economy is making the holiday season difficult for many so I tried to come up with some unique and less costly items to give to those who knit, spin or felt. A 100% cotton Canvas Tote is one item that anyone can use to carry or store their projects, of course it makes a great shopping bag as well.This one I needle felted the design on the front and then lightly wet felted the inside design part to make it smooth. It really holds alot.

The Tote Bag is one of the items on our new Gift Page. I also listed the new collapsible Umbrella Swift and Yarn Ball Winder, really great for all the indie dyers, as well as, knitters, spinners and crocheters. For those who would like to knit, we have the set of 4 Round Looms and a really nice kit for kids that includes some yarn, needles and little pattern book. The other item I listed is the Locker Hook, this is an old craft but often unknown yet it can be a great way to use leftovers of yarn, roving and quilters fabric strips.

I like to think our standard items, like Marr Haven Yarn, books and patterns would all make great gifts, too. Those items can also be included in a Gift Certificate.