Yarns By Design Blog

New Location, May 2012

2012-02-23T11:51:00.003-05:00

For all of our Fiber Friend followers...A lot of you have been inquiring about our new space. I thought I would share with you some photos of the work that is going on.

For the past two weeks, I have been painting (and painting, and more painting). Fortunately, it is all going well. Unfortunately, I do not see the light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel. I am going to be painting for a VERY long time! And, all of those edges. Why did I design the space to have so many? My hand is not steady for all of this detail. Note: Please do not look at the photos too closely, you will see some places that will eventually be 'touched-up'.

My husband has been super helpful. On his only days off, the weekends, he has been and will be helping me. I guess it is a good thing our winter has been mild this year. Normally, he would be skiing. Just this past weekend, he built a wall. He did not even ask for my help. Lets just say, whew! There is no way, if I was building a wall, that it would turn out looking like a wall and definitely would take longer than two days!

The beginning...

So many doors

Day one of the wall

Day two

The 'colorful' restroom

Whenever I am not at the new space preparing for our Grand Opening, Saturday, May 12, 2012, I will make certain to post new photos for you to see our progress.

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival

2012-02-13T18:24:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone whom stopped at the YBD booth this past weekend at the 8th Annual Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival! As always, my mum, Edye and I had a blast!!

We want to thank Barb and her staff for putting together a fun and eventful weekend of fiber arts here in Pittsburgh.

I did not have a chance to take any photos. Rather, I simply forgot (shame, shame). However, I do have this one to share of our booth. We were pretty excited trying out our new shelving for this event. I think it fit the space well. Also, we were able to fit a lot of different fibers on the shelving for everyones personal needs and likes.

If you have any photos from the festival, please share.

Hand Spun Bouquet

2012-02-06T17:50:00.004-05:00

YBD is happy to announce our newest line, Pagewood Farm! Sandy made this lovely cowl (free pattern with purchase of Bouquet) in no time at all.

This new fiber, Bouquet by Pagewood Farm, will be available at YBD's booth #5 this weekend at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival. We hope to see all of you there!!

How Pagewood Farm began:
Pagewood Farm grew from Robin and Chuck Page’s love of fiber arts. As hobbyists, they mastered the art of spinning 2-ply and novelty yarns. Selling their yarns at various venues they soon developed a loyal following. Robin studied under master spinners and dyers to hone her creative abilities and color sense resulting in completely original colorways and novelty yarns. As Pagewood Farm continued to grow Robin developed a unique dye process to create hand dyed yarn colors unlike any other. While still maintaining their handcrafting roots Pagewood Farm has expanded to be featured in yarn shops nationwide and are becoming known worldwide. Their goal, to be at the creative lead in the handcrafted fiber industry, has resulted in numerous hand dyed sock yarn and other weight yarn blends available in an ever growing list of original colorways and tone-on-tone solids. For spinners and needle felters, roving, locks and needle felting kits have been added. New fiber product ideas are a constant crop at Pagewood Farm.

New Books

2012-02-02T12:26:00.005-05:00

Here are a few more books YBD has received by Interweave Press. Stop by the boutique to pick up your copy today!

Weekend Hats: 25 Knitted Caps, Berets, Cloches, and More
by Cecily Glowik MacDonald, Melissa LaBarre
The clever designs of Weekend Hats will have enthusiastic knitters everywhere rejoicing in year-round hat style. Cecily Glowik MacDonald and Melissa LaBarre have brought you the best in designer knit hat patterns all in one beautiful and fun-loving collection. Included are 25 clever variations on caps, berets, beanies, cloches, hats, toques, tams, and snoods ranging from feminine to sporty. This collection of unique designs makes knitting a picture-perfect hat easy-to-do, offering the best in contemporary style and customized techniques.

Knitting Plus: Mastering Fit + Plus-Size Style + 15 Projects
by Lisa Shroyer
With Knitting Plus, you'll explore basic pullover and cardigan styles, including raglans, set-in sleeves, drop shoulders, seamless yokes, and dolmans in 15 stylish projects. Knitting Plus thoroughly outlines each element of the garment, while offering key tips on sweater measurements and tailoring for a custom fit. Included throughout are simple, easy-to-use templates of each construction type to make alterations and adaptations quick and simple.

Knit Edgings & Trims: Harmony Guides
by Kate Haxell
One of the greatest challenges you can face is finding the perfect edging or finishing for a project. With Knit Edgings and Trims, you have an abundance of edgings to choose from, including some never-before-seen edgings new to the updated Harmony Guides. Whether you're looking for a highly textured lace edge or to revamp a basic sweater silhouette with a unique edging, Knit Edgings and Trims is the perfect portable one-stop source for stitch inspiration.

Lace & Eyelets: Harmony Guides
by Erika Knight
Lace and Eyelets features a Falling Leaves pattern with a hint of texture perfect for an afghan and Little Flowers adds femininity to a set of winter accessories. From a Butterfly Lace to Knotted Openwork to Open Diamonds with Bobbles, this collection is designed to revolutionize the way you think about stitches. All swatches are worked in updated yarns, beautifully photographed and accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions. This all-in-one stitch guide fits perfectly in the knitter's travel bag, and design tips featured throughout will make it an invaluable resource to novice and skilled knitters alike.

New Crochet Books

2012-01-23T13:32:00.004-05:00

YBD received a huge shipment of books by Interweave Press. Below is a sample of some of the new crochet books that arrived. Stop by the boutique to pick up your copy today!

Unexpected Afghans: Innovative Crochet Designs with Traditional Techniques
by Robyn Chachula
Unexpected Afghans presents 29 innovative interpretations of a favorite at-home crochet essential. From best-selling author Robyn Chachula comes an in-depth look into crocheting traditional afghans using contemporary techniques, colors, and patterns.

Wrapped In Crochet: Scarves, Wraps & Shawls
by Kristin Omdahl
With Wrapped in Crochet, you'll create stunning crocheted scarves, wraps, and shawls using clever stitch motifs, innovative and traditional shaping, and a variety of crochet techniques and embellishment ideas. These one-of-a-kind pieces invite you to take your crochet to the next level. Project details include unusual edgings and motifs, color work, lace, ruffles, and tiers, and more.

Crochet So Fine: Exquisite Designs with Fine Yarns
by Kristin Omdahl
Kristin Omdahl's Crochet So Fine takes crocheted clothing from fussy to fashionable! By working with thinner yarns and more flexible stitches, crocheters can produce garments that are stylish and comfortable, figure-flattering without being form-fitting and great for layering. And just because the yarn is thin doesn't mean crocheters need to use the smallest of hooks, fine crochet can be quick and easy, too.

Baby Blueprint Crochet: Irresistible Projects for Little Ones
by Robyn Chachula
Visual crocheter Robyn Chachula is back, this time with a collection of bright, fun, and fashionable projects to crochet for little ones in Baby Blueprint Crochet. The 19 kid-friendly projects showcase Robyn's easy-to-read stitch diagrams, from clothes for boys and girls to accessories and toys. The designs are modern, cheery, and useful. And as a new mom herself, Robyn understands that parents want crocheted garments that launder easily with no extra frills or fussy materials.

Robin Hood by Grace Akhrem

2012-01-18T16:35:00.004-05:00

The Robin Hood hat by Grace Akhrem is a unique, beautiful design and a quick knit. Sandy has made a couple already! Unfortunately, the samples have only encouraged our customers to love it, that we have sold out of all of the patterns. Fortunately, more are on there way to the boutique (arriving any day now)!!

Short Description: Slouchy Hat
Materials Used: 2 skeins Queensland Collection Kathmandu Aran, 4 buttons
Needle Size: 8 US dpns, 8 US 16" circular, 7 US 16" circular
Skill Level: Advanced beginner

Blue Sky Alpacas Aprés Vest

2012-01-10T12:32:00.009-05:00

Aprés Vest
Designed by Olga Buraya-Kefelian

Stop by the boutique today to see our sample made up in Techno, Club Grey (1975)

A ruching stitch created with alternating needle sizes offers a funky quilted effect in this light weight layer. It’s an easy one-piece knit with a simple snap tape closure.

experience
Advanced Beginner
materials
• Blue Sky Techno (50g/120yds): 5 (6, 6, 8, 9) hanks
• Size 7 (4.5mm) 32" circular needle
• Size 10½ (6.5mm) 32" circular needle
• Waste yarn
• Stitch markers
• Stitch holders
• Tapestry needle
• 1 yard ¾" wide snap tape in matching color
• Sewing needle and matching thread

techno
68% baby alpaca / 10% extra fine merino / 22% silk
A modern take on 1970’s neon and natural, the line includes seven groovy pop colors perfectly balanced with six granola-lover neutrals. Modern technology makes Techno a feather-weight genius: baby alpaca is blown into a mesh tube of silk for really fast knitting with literally no splitting.
details
Weight: 50 grams
Approx: 120 yards / 109 meters
Needle Size: 10.5 US / 6.5 mm
Gauge: 3-5 sts/inch or 2.5 cm

New Patterns by Pam Powers Knits

2012-01-04T13:45:00.011-05:00

We would like to welcome new to the boutique, Pam Powers Knits.

Pam Powers is a freelance knitwear designer living in sunny Orange County, California with her wonderful husband and two lovely children. Her designs have appeared in Interweave Knits, Twist Collective, Belle Armoire and Apronology. Knitting is her therapy, stress-relief and creative outlet.

Cowboy Cowl by Pam Powers Knits
Skill Level: Intermediate
A stylish combination of a cowl combined with a kerchief in a textured stitch pattern that looks much more complex than it really is. This scarf is knitted flat from the top down and fastens in the back with buttons and crocheted button loops.

Quilted Lattice Ascot by Pam Powers Knits
Skill Level: Intermediate
This ascot-style scarf is a quick knit and just the ticket to take the fall chill off. This scarf looks great under a trench coat or v-neck. The Quilted Lattice stitch pattern is easy to master, using a clever combination of slipped stitches.

Ruffled and Ruched Scarf by Pam Powers Knits
Skill Level: Easy
This scarf is knitted vertically from the center out to the sides from provisionally cast on stitches. The scalloped rose (instructions included) is placed on a pin and used as a closure for the many versatile ways you can –wrap” this scarf.

Stocking Stuffers...

2011-12-19T14:45:00.008-05:00

Here are a few more gift ideas...

Shawl Pins
Add one of these beautiful shawl pins to any garment. YBD has these exquisite shawl pins available in purple, cream, black and red.

Tinseltown by Euro Yarns

Fiber: 90% Acrylic,10% Metallic Polyester;
Yardage: 44, Needle size: 6-10 US, Ball weight: 100g

Euro Tinseltown is a super fun, glitzy yarn that creates ruffles as you work with it. This yarn is sure to be a hit and would make a fun ruffled scarf that would be a great gift for the sparkle-lover in your life.

Do not forget about our upcoming 'Discount Days'
Don’t fret this holiday season.
To help you with your gift-giving this season, YBD is offering great discounted days.

Tuesday, December 20 from 10-7pm
Take 10% off all patterns and books

Wednesday, December 21 from 10-4pm
Take 10% off all fiber

Thursday, December 22 from 10-7pm
Take 10% off all accessories

All sales are final - Cannot be combined with any other offer - Sale prices apply only to in-stock items

Stocking Stuffers...

2011-12-12T14:55:00.002-05:00

Gift Card Special

YBD is going to help you out with your shopping this year. Stop by the boutique from December 13th through 23rd, purchase a YBD gift card for $50 and YBD will give you an additional $5 on the gift card (total $55).

All sales are final - Cannot be combined with any other offer

Stocking Stuffers...

2011-12-10T20:49:00.009-05:00

SIG'NITS - a brand-new way to put your signature on hand-knits!

Knitters love to put a personal touch on their projects - especially when it's a gift for someone special. Until now, embroidered labels were the only choice . . .

Now! There are sig'nits

What are sig'nits?
sig’nits are beads that you can knit into your project to identify creations as your own

“That baby afghan was definitely knit by Aunt Mary – she loves ladybugs and ALWAYS knits a little ladybug into her work for good luck!”

“Kathleen, you must have knit that sweater. I see the little "K" stitched into your sleeve!"

- Select a symbol to use as your personal “brand”
- Meaningful to each person: an initial, favorite animal or character
- Every time you knit or crochet something, you trademark it with your personal sig’nit.

How do sig’nits work?
- sig’nits are high quality die-cast beads made from durable pewter
- Will not rust or tarnish, long-lasting for the life of your project. Made in USA, they are safe and lead-compliant
- sig’nits are pre-drilled with a hole large enough to pull a strand of yarn, up to heavy worsted weight, through the bead using the “bead-it!” method
- For heavier weight yarn, sig’nits can be inserted by dividing fibers, instructions are included
- Each kit has enough beads for six projects, along with a fine gauge crochet hook and instructions

Visit the YBD boutique today to select from the many Sig'nits we have to choose from.

Images and text are copyrighted by sig'nits

Stocking Stuffers...

2011-12-09T00:20:00.004-05:00

JUL Designs: Pedestal Buttons are improvisational.

These closures require no commitment, no sewing and no pre-planned button holes. Instead, pedestal buttons are flexible components that can transform garments!

We carry a wide selection of colors to enhance any garment. The images below show you a sampling of the designs and patterns (by Andrea Marquis) available at the YBD boutique.

JUL Designs work directly with clothing and bag designers to develop integral bag jewelry and accessory designs in unconventional materials. Many JUL metal designs are created by Laura Bellows(designer, founder and principal owner of JUL) in wax, cast by hand in silver, and later reproduced in US casting studios in non-precious metals.
Other designs are generated in conjunction with Balinese co-designer Agus Astradhi (designer and co-owner of JUL) and made by hand in Bali.

Pattern: Infinity Scarf designed by Andrea Marquis

Pattern: Passionvine Shrug designed by Andrea Marquis

Pattern: Cobblestone Neckwarmer designed by Andrea Marquis

Pattern: Rivulet designed by Andrea Marquis

To use Pedestal Button, unscrew the backing and remove the back disk (on the screw mechanism shank), work the shank gently in between the stitches of your knitwear from the front. Place the back disk of leather, smooth side out, over the screw shank on the inside of knitwear. Screw in the backing with your fingers to secure.

Stocking Stuffers...

2011-11-30T12:03:00.007-05:00

Welcome to the holiday gift-giving guide from YBD. Over these next few weeks, we are going to post unique and very worth while gift ideas (for you and/or the fiber artist in your life) to help make your shopping experience this holiday season more fun.

Lavishea Lotion Bars
These lotion bars are flying off the shelf!! Our third order is on its way. We did order a couple of new fragrances (see below), just in time for the holidays. Stop by to test any of the fragrances out.

Lavishea Lotion Bars are an innovative new way to moisturize and heal dry skin. They are made with all-natural ingredients. Though it looks like soap, no water is necessary. Simply rub the bar on your skin, and the heat of your body will melt the lotion onto your skin where it is quickly absorbed.

- All bars are made using 100% Unrefined Shea Butter Fair trade shea butter handcrafted in Togo West Africa
- The shea butter used is produced under organic standards
- Unrefined shea butter has excellent anti-aging, soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Lavishea shea butter melts at body temperature, absorbing quickly into skin without a greasy residue
- Only pure, unrefined shea butter has the true healing and moisturizing properties of shea butter
- All Lavishea Lotion Bars are Gluten Free

LAVENDER
Lavender is the ultimate soothing, calming floral scent, widely used in aromatherapy for relaxation.

GINGER BLOSSOM
Soft, delicate notes of fig and green tea are perfectly blended with Siberian fir to round out the top and heart notes of this unique fragrance. Oriental notes of warm vanilla, jasmine and ylang ylang add alluring depth.

PEAR
Pear fragrance smells fruity, fresh, and sweet.

WHITE LILY AND AMBER
A soft background of white amber and musk provide a comfortable backdrop for crisp top notes of dewy cyclamen and smooth mimosa with middle notes of white lily.

New Fragrances:
CUCUMBER MELON
This sweet, refreshing fragrance blends cool cucumbers with sweet melons.

YARN BAR
This bar has a wonderful, light almond fragrance. Like all our bars, this bar will not leave a greasy residue on yarn. It is the perfect way to prevent dry skin from snagging delicate projects. Also, it helps control the drying effects of working on handmade projects.

WINTER BERRY
A blend of crisp, frozen berries combined with vanilla.

ORANGE POMANDER
A combination of orange w/spicy cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this scent is wonderfully aromatic and complex.

GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN
In producing Lavishea bars, they avoid harmful chemicals, overly processed ingredients, and environmentally damaging components. Because lotion is absorbed into the skin, it has a real impact on your body. Lavishea believes it is important to make the right choices in every step of their manufacturing process to ensure the quality of the bars and the health of our customers. Lavishea lotion bars are better for the environment, and full of vital nutrients for your skin.

Lavishea lotion bars are made ethically in the U.S.A.

Black Friday & Small Business Saturday

2011-11-22T13:34:00.004-05:00

We want to invite you to YBD for a weekend of savings.

Join us this Friday, November 25th from 10-6pm for our Black Friday event.

November 26th marks the second annual Small Business Saturday - a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping days of the year. The American Express campaign urges Americans to shop small at their favorite local stores and support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country.

Visit the YBD boutique on Saturday, November 26th to receive a door prize (while supplies last). Also, for every $50 you purchase that day, your name will be put into a drawing for a fiber arts gift worth over $200.

Cocoknits & Habu Textiles

2011-11-17T13:14:00.007-05:00

Thank you...
We want to take this time to thank both Julie Weisenberger with Cocoknits and Takako with Habu Textiles for the amazing Designer Workshops they taught this past weekend at YBD.

Each and every one of us were inspired by your creations, excited by what we learned and grateful for such an opportunity.

Here are a few pictures I wanted to share from the weekend...

Cocoknits workshop 'What not to knit'

Cocoknits workshop 'European finishing techniques'

Takako taking a break from instructing 'Japanese schematic pattern reading'

Attendees trying on garments from Cocoknits & Habu Textiles.

More garments available for attendees to try on.

Cocoknits workshop 'Seamless sweater construction'

Sandy, Julie, Takako and Tamara

Thanks, again, for an enjoyable weekend!

Knit Cook Patterns

2011-11-04T22:15:00.005-04:00

The Knit Cook patterns are new to the YBD boutique. We are very excited to share Darlene's designs with you.

Darlene started Knit Cook as a way to share her passion for the good life - at least her version of it - one that is rich with creative possibility. The Knit Cook patterns are simple yet slightly sophisticated wearable knits. Darlene also likes to share some ideas about her other two passions, cooking and gardening. Her hope with Knit Cook is to inspire you to get out your knitting needles, get into the kitchen, and out to the garden - even if your garden is just a pot on your balcony - and create something wonderful.

Below are a few of the patterns we have available at the boutique. Also, Darlene will be sending a handful of her beautiful creations with Takako, from Habu Textiles, for our upcoming Fall Fashion Show on Friday, November 11th (call to pre-register).

FAMEUSE
Fibers: Habu Textiles A60 - Shosenshi Linen Paper, Habu Textiles N75 - Fine Merino

Named for a french cider apple, this elegant cardigan is as versatile as it is easy to knit. The body is made in one piece using a striking but deceptively simple stitch pattern, while the garter stitch collar is worked separately.

This pattern includes a recipe for Brandied Cherry Ice Cream.

CORTLAND
Fibers: Habu Textiles A174 - Cotton Gima

A crisp tailored cardigan has a place in everyone's wardrobe. The top part of this cardigan is worked from sleeve to sleeve, with the peplum picked up and worked from the bottom of the bodice, so seaming is minimal. The buttonholes are added after the knitting is finished.

This pattern includes a recipe for Pea Pod Salad with Almonds.

Show & Tell

2011-10-26T11:02:00.003-04:00

The YBD staff would like to thank all of our guests who attended our Show & Tell event this past Sunday, October 23rd at the boutique.

We had a blast seeing each of you and your finished projects this past weekend. Not only were we excited to see all of our fibers knitted/crocheted into something beautiful, but you all inspired us.

To name a few...Michelle's knitted garments for her grand baby that is on the way, Carol's moebius, Pat's knitted hats and socks, Virginia's Flow tunic, Jackie's rugs, Cathy's Loop-D-Loop skirt, Rebecca's lace work, Natalie's rug knitted out of sheets, Debbie's cardigan and favors, Robi's first cardigan, Cathy's linen projects, and many more.

A few of our guests get excited by all of the lovely projects.
Tamara showing off her crocheted wine bottle gift carriers.

Mother and daughter, Diane and Devon, spinning outside in the gorgeous weather.

Amanda's weaved scarves, shawls and wall hangings. By the way, did I mention, Amanda, I really want your brown and teal wall hanging!!

Thanks to everyone whom made this a very exciting, encouraging and fun-filled event!

Customer Appreciation Day: October 20th, 2011

2011-10-19T10:59:00.005-04:00

Roses for Rosa Scarf by Judith Durant
Knitted with Noro Kureyon Sock
Fingering / 4 ply
70% Wool, 30% Nylon
462 yards
Gauge: 30.0 sts = 4 inches
Needle size: US 1½ - 3

Sandy knitted this fun and colorful scarf using Noro Kureyon Sock from the Roses for Rosa scarf pattern out of Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders book. On Thursday, October 20th from 10-7pm, receive 20% off Noro Kureyon Sock for Customer Appreciation Day. Note: All sales are final. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!
Every knitter understands the allure of sock yarn. It slips easily into a handbag, comes in endless variations, and represents a dazzling array of possibilities. Best of all, it "s relatively inexpensive, making it an affordable splurge. As a result, many knitters find themselves with veritable collections of sock yarn in their stash. Fortunately, sock yarn can be used for more than simply keeping toes toasty. In Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks! veteran knitter Judith Durant has chosen not simply inventive sock patterns but also more than 5 dozen inspired patterns for other items that can be created from a single skein of sock yarn. Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders offers one-of-a-kind patterns for baby clothes, mittens, scarves, hats, jewelry, cozies, bags . . . even a dog sweater and a lamp shade! Knitters of every skill level will find tantalizing challenges; some knit up in fewer than three hours, others make creative use of sock yarn leftovers, and several make heirloom-worthy gifts. Collectively, these patterns bring out the best of sock yarn . . . whether variegated or solid-colored, self-patterning or hand-painted. With this book in their knitting bags, needlecrafters will take their stash of sock yarn well beyond stockinged feet to a delightful world of possibility.

Designer's Workshops at YBD

2011-10-11T13:27:00.007-04:00

Join YBD on November 12th and 13th
We have invited two very exciting and talented guest designer's to YBD. The workshops held will be by Julie Weisenberger of Cocoknits and Takako of Habu Textiles. The exciting line-up of workshops offered are too good to miss out on. Do register today!

Click here for details to the Designer's Workshops schedule and registration.

Here are a few samples of their talented designs:

Weekend Wrap by Cocoknits

Katarina by Cocoknits

Yvonne by Cocoknits

Sea Tangles by Knitty
using Habu Textiles Fiber

Infinite Loop by Habu Textiles

Click here for details to the Designer's Workshops schedule and registration.
Click here for details to our Annual Fall Fashion Show held on Friday, November 11th.

Note: Pre-Registration required / Cash or check only / Space is limited / No Refunds

Register for the Fall Fashion Show and two or more Designer’s Workshops to receive 10% off total.

Quick Projects: Scarves

2011-10-06T00:16:00.003-04:00

Dolce Vita by SMC Select
Available in a 100 gram (3.5 ounce) ball.
Contains approximately 5.5 metres (6 yards.)

Dolce Vita by SMC is a bulky, loopy yarn, which can be finger knit or crocheted into a 5 foot long (1.5 metres) scarf. The instructions are on the ball band, and it is very easy to do. We made a scarf in 5 minutes! The yarn is 95% wool and 5% polyamide.

Link by Berroco
50% Wool, 50% Acrylic, 32 yds, 50(US) needle

Huge and colorful, Link is full of character. Instantly gratifying when worked on size 35 or 50 needles, this yarn creates eye-catching accessories.

Flamenco by Trendsetter
100% Acrylic, 40 yards, 13(US) needle

A flouncy styled ribbon that when spread open, looks like a fisherman's net, Flamenco is a truly unique yarn. By knitting the top edge, it opens up to about 3 inches and creates beautiful openwork ruffles. A scarf takes about 1 or 2 evenings to make on size US 8, 9 or 10 needles. Stop by the boutique today to pick out your new 'quick knit' project!

New Arrival: Cortina Nuvole

2011-09-21T19:43:00.003-04:00

Skacel Collection: Cortina Nuvole
• 70% Merino Wool - 30% Nylon
• 55 yards per 50 gram ball
• 12 mm (approx. US 17) needles
• Approx. 2.5 sts per inch

Cortina Nuvole is mottled in color. Just like Cortina, it is created with an air-infused nylon core that is encased within fine Merino Wool, making it unimaginably lightweight while still having that great wool feeling. But with Cortina Nuvole the infused core is undyed while the merino surrounding it is colored. The voluminosity of the yarn allows you to knit complex stitch patterns quickly at 2 ½ stitches per inch, without adding extra weight to your garment.

Schulana Crealana 27
Sandy knit this beautiful jacket using the above fiber. For all of you who have been waiting patiently, the yarn has arrived, so stop by today to pick out your color. We have two more additional colors ordered that are on backorder.

New arrivals at YBD

2011-09-16T21:30:00.003-04:00

Techno by Blue Sky Alpacas:
68% baby alpaca / 10% extra fine merino / 22% silk
We are excited to announce the arrival of the long awaited Techno. A modern take on 1970’s neon and natural, the line includes seven groovy pop colors perfectly balanced with six granola-lover neutrals. Modern technology makes Techno a feather-weight genius: baby alpaca is blown into a mesh tube of silk for really fast knitting with literally no splitting.

Worsted Cotton by Blue Sky Alpacas:
100% organic cotton
This candy shop of color tempts with an array of sweet treats ranging from rich and creamy neutrals to scrumptious saturated hues. The palette is created with low impact dyes, and a funky twist gives our 100% certified organic cotton a light and lofty hand.

Fine and Sweater by Spud & Chloe:
Fine: Made of superwash 80% wool/20% silk, this sock-weight yarn is ideal for Fair Isle and detailed work—and of course, some pretty fancy footwork.

Sweater: Made of superwash 55% wool/45% organic cotton, it’s a worsted-weight yarn for everybody.

Naturally Soft Merino by MillaMia:
100% extra fine Merino Wool
Its supersoft feel makes it ideal for babies and young children, and the lovely twist on the yarn means that the resulting knitted fabric has a great stitch definition. Produced in Italy.

We also have supporting patterns for all lines. Stop by today, browse through the wonderful designs and we'll help you get started for your next project!

Finished objects: Peggy's Casey stole and Ilene bag!

2011-08-30T11:10:00.007-04:00

Peggy B. recently completed the Casey stole, a pattern from Louet's Trudy Van Stralen. Peggy used Louet's Euroflax 100% Wet Spun Linen Fine/Sport Weight in color 2364, Natural. With her yarn leftovers, Peggy also knit up an Ilene Bag (pictured below). This handy bag, designed by Hannah Ingalls, is a perfect catch-all for the market or anywhere! Well done, Peggy!

Reminder: last day to use your YBD Groupon!

2011-08-23T08:26:00.002-04:00

Thank you to all of the wonderful customers who visited us with a Groupon over the past few months. If you haven't made it in yet, please be reminded that this is the last day to use your Groupon. The boutique will be open today from 10am-7pm.

The Groupon experience has been great, and we've enjoyed seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones! Over the next few weeks, we will be filling our shelves with new fall and winter inventory and some good stuff that we found at TNNA, so be sure to stop in and see us again soon.

Also, we have an exciting weekend of events coming up this November. Kicking off the weekend will be our second annual Fall Fashion Show on Friday, November 11 at the Oakmont Country Club ($10/person, cash/check only, limited space, reservation required). On November 12 and 13, we will be holding workshops from two very exciting guest designers (TBA) at the boutique. Watch your email and this space for more information to come!

Finished object: Gretel!

2011-08-16T18:05:00.003-04:00

Tamara recently completed the Gretel tank, knitting it up with Habu's Cotton Gima in Charcoal. Designed by Julie Weisenberger of cocoknits, this easy and flattering tank uses just two to four skeins of Cotton Gima, making it an excellent value as well. Cotton Gima is a unique 100% cotton yarn that feels like paper. "Gima" literally means "fake linen" in Japanese, and it feels like paper. Stop in today to see our selection!

Finished Project: Lolita

2011-08-12T15:57:00.002-04:00

The flattering drape and light weight of Lolita, a design by Imagine Knit Designs, works on any body type and for any season.

Tamara knit this project with Rowan Purelife Revive (color 466, Marble), a blend of recycled silk, recycled cotton and recycled viscose. She used only four balls for the size small on a US 8 needle. Tamara made the pattern her own by making modifications to the back. If you would like to hear more information about the changes she made or view this swingy vest pattern, stop by the boutique today!

Finished object: Debbie's Sassymetrical!

2011-08-09T18:08:00.003-04:00

We were thrilled when Debbie C. brought in one of her latest finished objects - the Sassymetrical cardigan, designed by Gay Schiff. Debbie knit this swingy cardigan out of Nashua Handknits Daylily yarn in the "Pastels" colorway, and the sweater is held closed in the photo by a beautiful Annie Adams pewter shawl pin. Great work, Debbie!

Join YBD for Oakmont's annual sidewalk sale and our birthday celebration!

2011-07-26T17:20:00.001-04:00

Join Yarns By Design for some great deals on Saturday, July 30 (10am-4pm) at Oakmont's annual sidewalk sale! The YBD booth will be located on Allegheny River Boulevard, across from Citizens Bank. Please note that we would prefer cash for all sale items.

The boutique will also be open for regular business hours (10am-4pm) on Saturday, so do stop by for some cake to celebrate our 6th birthday! We want to thank each and every one of you for supporting us and welcoming us into your creative lives.

Finished object: Holden Shawlette!

2011-07-12T16:30:00.003-04:00

Jen recently completed the Holden Shawlette by designer Mindy Wilkes. This pattern (available as a FREE Ravelry download) calls for just one skein of Malabrigo Sock (see our previous post for colors currently in stock), but Jen substituted Ella Rae Lace Merino in color 119 for the Malabrigo and notes that any fingering weight yarn would do. With a stockinette body and an easy to memorize lace pattern, this pattern is perfect for a first lace or shawl project. Stop by the boutique today to try on this shawl and browse our selection of fingering weight yarns!

Malabrigo Sock restock!

2011-07-05T18:24:00.002-04:00

Our latest shipment of Malabrigo Sock has finally arrived! Now in stock are Tiziano Red, Cordovan, Arbol, Terracotta, Turner, Caribeno, Eggplant, Velvet Grapes and Chocolate Amargo. These colors are going fast, so visit the boutique today to pick some up!

Available for pre-order: BagSmith Block 'n Roll!

2011-06-28T18:11:00.002-04:00

Photo copyright The BagSmith.

Block n Roll - Block to perfection, store with ease. This exciting new product will be available in July. Call the boutique today to pre-order yours!

Let Block n Roll make your beautiful projects look even better. The generous surface area of Block n Roll can accommodate projects of many sizes for knitting, crochet, quilting, sewing, needlepoint, cross stitch, and/or scrapbooking. Projects may be pinned directly onto the surface of the mat. The 20mm X 20mm grid is very useful in lining up and keeping straight edges, hems and seams.

The Teflon coated surface is heat and water resistant. This allows for steam, wet blocking and pressing. For best results, let your project remain on the mat until it is dry. While Block n Roll is safe to use on most surfaces, it is advised to test a small area before proceeding with your project, especially if using pins. Block n Roll is not to be used as a cutting mat.

Before storing, make sure Block n Roll is completely dry. Starting at the end of the mat that has no fabric ties, begin rolling with the grid pattern on the outside, like a jellyroll. Once the mat is rolled, take one set of ties around the roll, each tie in an opposite direction and make an overhand knot to secure in place. Repeat with the ties at the other end of the mat. Store Block n Roll in a dry place. Due to its rolled up size, it should be easy to find a place to store Block n Roll so it will be readily available when you need it again.

Dimensions: 38” W x 50” L opened flat. Rolled size: 38" L x 6" diameter.

Material Content: Teflon® coated fabric laminated to fire retardant 8mm foam.

Two finished objects in summer whites!

2011-06-21T17:33:00.004-04:00

Sandy recently completed this stunning stole knit in Louet Euroflax sport weight. The pattern, Casey, comes from Louet's Trudy Van Stralen, and Sandy added sparkling crystal and seed beads to the elegant rivers of cables. She reports that she is looking forward to wearing it to an upcoming wedding that she will be attending.

We always love seeing Elaine's finished objects, and today she brought in a recently completed breezy summer tunic knit out of Maggi Knits Maggi's Linen. The pattern, Lace Tunic (#01) by Gordana Gehlhausen, was published in the Spring/Summer 2010 edition of Vogue Knitting. This versatile tunic would look great as a swimsuit cover-up, or be equally at home paired with some leggings or a skirt.

TNNA update!

2011-06-14T17:09:00.002-04:00

Sandy and Tamara are still recovering from a busy weekend at TNNA, but they report that they came across a lot of fun new stuff that will be arriving at the boutique over the next several weeks.

Sandy was particularly taken with the yarn and patterns on offer from MillaMia, a company based in the UK, but with Scandinavian roots. With a focus on children's wear and supersoft 100% Merino machine-washable wool, MillaMia patterns are inspired by the latest fashion trends. MillaMia's Naturally Soft Merino yarn (50 g, 136.7 yds, 25 sts and 34 rows/4 in square) is offered in a sophisticated color palette ranging from darks to lights and neutrals to brights.

Also on order are new products from Malabrigo (Rasta, Silky Merino, Sock and Twist), SMC Select (Tweed Deluxe and Diverso), Rowan (Colourspun), Skacel (HiKoo WoolieBullie, Zitron Filigran, Schulana Silverstar), Berroco (Flicker, Vintage Chunky) and more! For more details, check out Tamara's post on Facebook, and keep an eye out for these exciting new products!

Finished objects: two cool summer tops!

2011-06-07T17:33:00.003-04:00

Sandy recently completed two summer tops, both featured in the Spring/Summer 2011 issue of Vogue Knitting, from two different wonderful worsted-weight yarns.

First up is pattern 22, the Cable Collar Top, designed by Norah Gaughan. Sandy made it her own by omitting the cable on the collar and by substituting Nashua Creative Focus Linen in place of the pattern's recommended yarn. Creative Focus Linen is a worsted-weight yarn made up of 50% linen and 50% cotton. Sandy chose color 1723, bright pink, but YBD currently has 11 colors of this versatile yarn to choose from.

Like a ray of sunshine, Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Cotton in color 628, dandelion, will brighten up your day. Sandy knit this cheerful yarn into pattern 24, the Diagonal Front Vest, by Mel Clark. This menswear-style vest has fronts worked on the diagonal and a ribbed back with a cute cable detail. Yellow not your color? We currently have more than ten colors of Worsted Cotton in stock, along with those charming buttons from Mission Falls.

Finished object: Foldover Top from Ori Ami Knits, knit with Habu yarns!

2011-05-31T17:58:00.003-04:00

Tamara recently completed the elegant Foldover Top pattern by Olga Buraya-Kefelian from the book Ori Ami Knits. The pattern calls for a strand each of Habu Textiles A-1 2/17 tsumugi silk and A-20 silk wrapped stainless to be held together to create a light, incredibly malleable fabric. The minimalistic look of the design combines simple, yet innovative, construction that emphasizes the shoulders with minimal seaming. The edges are treated with various i-cord techniques to provide a refined look. Tamara chose color 12 (natural) of the tsumugi silk and color 01 (white) of the silk wrapped stainless, creating the perfect color combination to show off her summer tan. Currently, we have ten colors of the tsumugi silk and eight colors of the silk wrapped stainless in stock (see photo below). What color combination will you choose?

This just in: Rowan Purelife Organic Cotton!

2011-05-24T15:45:00.003-04:00

Just arrived is Rowan Purelife Organic Cotton Naturally Dyed, a DK weight cotton colored in soft hues with plant dyes. Purelife Organic Cotton is grown in an environmentally and socially responsible manner without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Each batch of cotton can be traced back to the certified farming communities where farmers are paid a fair trade price for their crop.

This lovely yarn will work beautifully with any pattern calling for a DK-weight (22 stitches/4 inches, 131 yds, US 5) cotton. Currently in stock are (pictured clockwise from top left) colors 994 (medium indigo), 986 (natural), 980 (madder), 982 (brazilwood), 995 (oak bark) and 992 (chlorophyll).

Mother's Day Sidewalk Sale - Saturday, May 7, 2011!

2011-05-03T16:37:00.003-04:00

Please join us on Saturday, May 7, 2011 from 10am-4pm for a Mother's Day Sidewalk Sale! Bring your mom or treat yourself to some great deals on selected yarns from the following companies: Araucania, Asland Trends, Be Sweet, Debbie Bliss, Elsebeth Lavold, Feza, Knitting Fever, Laines du Nord, Lorna's Laces, Louisa Harding, Sirdar, Sublime, Twinkle Handknits and more!

This just in: Habu, Haiku Knits and Ori Ami Knits!

2011-04-20T10:23:00.012-04:00

YBD is thrilled to announce the arrival of our latest Habu Textiles order, plus the arrival of two books that feature Habu's yarns: Haiku Knits and Ori Ami Knits!

We've restocked Habu's Cotton Gima, Linen, Fine Merino and Silk Stainless yarns. New to us is their Ultra Fine Stainless Steel Thread, with the excellent message on the label: "Yardage not available, but A LOT".

In Haiku Knits, author and designer Tanya Alpert features 25 designs that celebrate originality, simplicity, sophisticated color and comfortable fit. Her "Lantern Floating" pattern brings together Habu's Silk Stainless and Super Fine Merino into a softly felted, romantic top and skirt. The book also features some other fine yarns that we currently stock, including Rowan Cocoon.

Ori Ami Knits - featuring designs from Olga Buraya-Kefelian, Vanessa Yap-Einbund and Kirsten Johnstone - is a collection of 13 pieces that focus on the concepts of folding, pleating, draping and combining textures. The "Concertina Dress" uses Habu Linen and has intricate detailing around the neckline. The linen yarn's flowing drape is perfectly suited for summer days. The "Abyss Jacket" uses two strands of two different colors of Tsumugi Silk held together (for a total of four strands) and is a perfect addition to any wardrobe. With classic tailoring and minimalist feature details, this garment is a true crowd-pleaser.

This just in: new books!

2011-04-12T16:07:00.004-04:00

YBD has received several great books over the last few weeks. Here is some information about some of them.

Nicky Epstein's Knitting Block By Block is an innovative book that provides the reader with 150 block designs and diagrams to design with. Simply choose the design you want - afghan, bag, sweater, scarf or toy - and select one block design or several to mix and match and create your own personalized finished object!

Knit.Sock.Love is the latest release from sock guru Cookie A. This beautifully photographed book features 19 original patterns that are broken down step by step into bite-size components that are easy to digest. Illustrations, diagrams and charts accompany each project, offering an invaluable guide for visual knitters.

In A Knitting Wrapsody, Kristin Omdahl features 18 innovative designs to wrap, drape and tie. According to the author, although all of the projects in the book - scarves, wraps, shawls and skirts - are knitted, much of the aesthetic is inspired by crochet. A DVD is included with the book to help to demonstrate some of the unusual techniques used in these patterns.

60 Quick Baby Knits is a collection of charming knits from Cascade featuring their 220 Superwash yarn. This collection of designs, ranging from easy to experienced, includes hats, booties, sweaters, blankets and more.

Both edited by Judith Durant, One-Skein Wonders and Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders feature patterns - you guessed it - using just one skein of yarn each! One-Skein Wonders features 101 patterns written for just about every weight of yarn out there - plus novelty yarn! Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders features 101 patterns that go way beyond socks. While the volume features many wonderful yarns, while paging through, we found three patterns featuring one of our favorite sock yarns, Noro Kureyon Sock (shown below). The Ericka Scarf from Gina House features a simple, open lace pattern that is easy to knit and works up quickly. Patricia Colloton-Walsh's Crocheted Market Bag is fast, fun and useful. And now for something completely different, how about Irina Poludnenko's knit and crocheted Umbrella Lamp Shade? Yarn cost for any of these three projects is a steal at just $19.95!

Restock alert - Handpainted Knitting Yarns and Berroco Comfort!

2011-04-05T17:01:00.002-04:00

Yarns By Design is pleased to report that we've just restocked some of our most popular products!

The Hand Painted Knitting Yarns "Scarf-in-a-Scarf" Knitting Kits include four skeins of soft-as-butter yarn in a 60% silk, 40% fine Merino blend, as well as a handpainted silk scarf that's been dyed to match. Knit the included pattern, thread the silk scarf through your knitting, and you have a beautiful new accessory for fall that can be worn in a number of ways! See the top photo above for the colors now in stock.

Also just in is a huge restock of one of the most popular and versatile yarns that we carry - Berroco Comfort. Great for baby or adult knits, Comfort is an affordably-priced classic worsted weight yarn. An ultra-soft blend of super fine acrylic and super fine nylon is spun into a luxury twist. The yarn is easy care– machine wash and dry – and allergy free. Currently, we have 45 colors of this fabulous yarn in stock.

New from Rowan!

2011-03-22T18:22:00.002-04:00

We were excited to receive a big box from Rowan today with all eight colors of one of their newest yarns - Savannah!

Savannah is a wonderful aran-weight 94% cotton, 6% silk yarn perfect for summer knits and is available in lovely desert shades. Rowan's Savannah Collection pattern booklet is also available at YBD and features 12 designs for women using this beautiful yarn.

Also just arrived is Rowan Magazine Number 49, featuring 46 knit and crochet designs from Marie Wallin, Kaffe Fassett, Martin Storey, Erika Knight, Sarah Dallas, Brandon Mably, Grace Melville, Lisa Richardson, Amanda Crawford, Jennie Atkinson and Sarah Hatton. Stop by the boutique to pick up your copy today!

This just in: new yarns from Gedifra!

2011-03-15T18:50:00.003-04:00

Like a breath of spring air, two new cotton-blend yarns from Gedifra arrived today!

Gedifra Pertinio (sample above shown in color 1917) is a blend of cotton and viscose with a touch of lurex. This yarn is a flat cotton ribbon with a strand of lurex that is wrapped with shiny viscose. Gedifra Pertinio is a great yarn for warm weather that adds a little fun with the touch of sparkle. 82% Cotton/14% Viscose, 50g/110yd, 5 sts = 1" on US 6.

Small, brightly colored tufts of polyamide poke out from the cotton yarn and resembel roses in this great yarn. Gedifra Rosas (sample above shown in color 1716) is perfect for accessories, but also interesting for garments. 55% Polyamid/45% Cotton, 50g/88yd, 4.5 sts = 1" on US 5.

Pattern books using these yarns - Gedifra Moments 0224 and Gedifra Highlights 111 - are also in stock. Both patterns shown above can be found in Gedifra Highlights 111.

This just in: new shawl patterns!

2011-03-01T18:43:00.003-05:00

Yarns By Design was delighted to receive three new shawl patterns this week!

First up is the Aestlight Shawl by Gudrun Johnston. Aestlight (which translates to "east light" in the Shetland dialect) is knit using a traditional Shetland construction. It begins with a garter stitch triangle increasing from the point outwards. Stitches are then easily picked up from the very visible yarn over loops along the edges and the border is worked outwards from the triangle. The shawl is finished with an edging that is knitted sideways and attached to the live stitches of the border as it is being worked.

The first pattern of two from designer Stephen West, Flamboyan is an elegant triangular shawl composed of garter and stockinette stitch along with a ribbed edge. Basic intarsia techniques are utilized to achieve a block of color in the center of the shawl. Also from Stephen West is Clockwork, an enjoyable striped garter stitch shawl/scarf, perfect for featuring two beautiful colors of yarn. Bold slipped stitch columns add structural interest while increases give this gear-inspired design a unique arched shape.

All three patterns suggest the use of fingering-weight yarn, and some of our favorites are Spud & Chloë Fine, Malabrigo Sock, Plymouth Happy Feet, Ella Rae Lace Merino and Noro Kureyon Sock. But, since these are shawls, any yarn weight can be substituted (keeping in mind that a finer weight yarn will result in a smaller finished object and a heavier weight yarn a larger one). YBD carries several lovely laceweights from Alpaca With a Twist's Fino and Fantastic Knitting's Zephyr Laceweight, to the ultra-luxurious Louet Mooi and Plymouth Earth Ecco Cashmere. Stop in today to check out these great new patterns!

Have you met Spud and Chloë?

2011-02-22T18:49:00.005-05:00

Spud & Chloë is a line of luxe yarns in mod colors, all carefully selected to let you create dreamy pieces from soft baby socks to chunky sweaters, chic fashions and extra special presents.

Yarns By Design carries a wide range of colors of all three of the Spud & Chloë lines — Fine (shown above at left in color 7801, Glow Worm), Sweater (shown above at center in color 7514, Turtle) and Outer (shown above at right in color 7210, Hedge). In addition to these wonderful yarns, we are proud to offer Spud & Chloë patterns.

Made of superwash 80% wool/20% silk, Fine is a sock-weight yarn that is ideal for Fair Isle and detailed work — and of course, some pretty fancy footwork. Sweater is a superwash 55% wool/45% organic cotton in a worsted-weight. Made of superwash 65% wool/35% organic cotton, Outer is a super bulky weight yarn that is just the thing for a quick knit!

Stop by the boutique today to get acquainted with Spud & Chloë!

Save 40% on our remaining stock of Mission Falls products!

2011-02-15T18:36:00.004-05:00

Like everyone in the fiber arts community, Yarns By Design was saddened to hear that, after 19 years in the business, Mission Falls had closed it's doors at the beginning of this year. But the knit and crochet world's loss can be your gain. While supplies last, our remaining stock of 1824 Wool, 1824 Cotton and Mission Falls pattern books is now 40% off. All sales are final, and this discount may not be combined with any other discount.

Visit YBD at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival!

2011-02-01T17:31:00.003-05:00

The 7th Annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival will take place on February 11-13, 2011 at the Four Points by Sheraton Pittsburgh North in Mars, Pennsylvania. Visit Yarns By Design at Booth #5 at the festival!

In addition to the marketplace, this year's festival will feature a Friday evening wine and cheese reception and fashion show, a Barbie Fashion Retrospective, free "Teach-Me-2-Knit" and "Teach-Me-2-Crochet" classes and classes taught by Nicky Epstein and others. New this year is the "Sample It" sneak preview session that will take place on Friday evening. Attendees with a prepaid ticket (ticket includes admission to the reception, fashion show and "Sample It" session) will be able to see and purchase selected items from vendors prior to the opening of the marketplace on Saturday morning.

YBD will have special offers throughout the weekend. Be sure to stop by Booth #5! For more information, please visit the festival website at www.pghknitandcrochet.com.

Knit black and gold!

2011-01-25T18:11:00.004-05:00

Yarns By Design congratulates the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are headed to Super Bowl XLV on February 6, 2011 to face the Green Bay Packers. What better way to pass the time until the big day than to make a new scarf to show your Steeler pride?

Black and Gold Braided Scarf

Pattern courtesy of Sandra Donatelli

Materials:
1 skein Cascade 220 in black (color 8555)
1 skein Cascade 220 in gold (color 9463B)
Size 7 or 8 US needles
Tapestry needle

Cast on 11 stitches with either color. Work straight in K1, P1 ribbing until strip reaches approximately 64 inches. Knit two more strips, for a total of three (the sample shown is made with two black strips and one gold). Lay strips together, parallel to one another lengthwise, and seam approximately two inches between each strip at the end. Loosely braid the strips (so that they still lay somewhat flat), then seam approximately two inches between each strip on the opposite end. If desired for extra stability, tack the strips together loosely with a stitch where the two strips of the same color cross each other in the braid (in the sample, the black strips are tacked together). Finished measurements of the sample shown are 58 inches long, 3.5 inches wide.

New at YBD: Cascade Eco Alpaca and Eco Duo!

2011-01-18T18:41:00.003-05:00

Yarns By Design is pleased to announce that we now carry Cascade Yarns Eco Alpaca and Eco Duo!

Eco Alpaca is an undyed 100% baby alpaca yarn available in many beautiful and natural shades. This super-soft, plied worsted-weight yarn is put up in very generous 220-yard skeins. A selection of free patterns that use Eco Alpaca is available at Cascade's website here.

Eco Duo is a soft and supple blend of 70% baby alpaca and 30% Merino wool. These undyed yarns are blended and spun into a singles yarn available in a muted natural color palette. Each Aran-weight skein has 197-yards. A selection of free patterns using Eco Duo is available at Cascade's website here.

This just in: Artyarns!

2011-01-11T18:35:00.003-05:00

We've just received a new shipment of beautiful and luxurious yarns from Artyarns!

Mohair Splash: 74% Silk, 26% Kid Mohair with glass beads and sequins; 165 yds.

Ensemble: 75% Silk, 25% Cashmere; 256 yds.

Rhapsody: 50% Silk, 50% Kid Mohair; 260 yds.

Beaded Rhapsody: 85% Silk, 15% Kid Mohair with glass beads and Lurex; 175 yds.
Beaded Ensemble with Sequins: 85% Silk, 15% Cashmere with glass beads, sequins and metallic thread; 128 yds.

A selection of free patterns to choose from is included with the purchase of these fine yarns. Some of our favorites are: pattern F117, a lacy little scarf that requires just one skein of Beaded Ensemble with Sequins (or any of the other Artyarns yarns that we carry!); F119, a luxury bolero jacket knit with two skeins of either Rhapsody or Ensemble; and F200, a lacy shrug knit with just one skein of Mohair Splash. Photos of all of these projects and more can be viewed at the Artyarns website. Stop by the boutique today to see these lovely yarns!

The YBD Big Gift Guide

2010-12-14T16:00:00.015-05:00

The holidays are fast approaching, and if you still have not checked the fiber lovers in your life off of your gift list, we have a few ideas for you!

Scarf kits by Mihaela's Signature Designs or Hand Painted Knitting Yarns - The Mihaela's kit (shown below) includes a pattern and the two skeins of yarn needed to make this flirty scarf. The flower accents can be made with scrap yarns from your (or your giftee's) stash. The Hand Painted Knitting Yarns kit includes four skeins of soft-as-butter yarn in a 60% silk, 40% fine Merino blend, as well as a handpainted silk scarf that's been dyed to match. Knit the included pattern, thread the silk scarf through your knitting, and you have a beautiful new accessory that can be worn in a number of ways!

Namaste Handbags, Totes and Accessories - Perfect to hold your knit and crochet gear, Namaste bags come in a wide array of colors and are made of extremely durable, animal friendly, easy to clean materials. Namaste believes that fashion and function can exist together.

Needle and Tool Kits - Choose from the ultra-popular Addi Click set (features more than five hundred combinations with 10 pairs of Addi Turbo needle tips, three blue cords and one connector), Clover Bamboo Knitting Needles (circular or single point), ChiaoGoo Bamboo Knitting Needles (packaged in an attractive bamboo case), or The Knit Kit (includes seven essential knitting tools).

Eucalan No Rinse Delicate Wash - Offered in four fragrances, Eucalan is something that no knitter or crocheter should be without! Choose from unscented, lavender, eucalyptus or grapefruit in the 500ml bottle size, or try them all in the sampler pack!

Debra's Garden Knitting Gauge Pendants - This 1.5" x 1.25" lightweight needle gauge is as beautiful as it is accurate. The pendants are available in US measurements from 0-17, and just in is a sock and lace gauge with US and metric measurements from 000000 to 6 and .75mm to 4mm, respectively. Use this handy gauge as a pendant on your favorite chain, as a key ring or bag charm, or as a useful zipper pull on your knitting notions bag. The numbers on the gauge are lasered in and will not wear off.

These are just a few of the wonderful products now in stock. How about some sweet-smelling soaps from local handmade soapmaker Jay Design? Or Sig'nits - beads that you can knit into your project to identify creations as your own? Or books from beginner to expert? Or a gift card? The list goes on and on. So, leave that crowded shopping mall behind and stop in at the boutique today!

Now on sale: AslanTrends and Loop-D-Loop by Teva Durham!

2010-12-07T16:06:00.006-05:00

Save 25% off selected fibers at Yarns By Design now through January 1, 2011!

AslanTrends Invernal - Fiber Content: 50% Rabbit Angora, 25% Merino Wool, 25% Polyamide; Weight: 100 g/3.5 oz, approx. 270 m/295 yd; Needle size: 4-5 mm/6–8 US; Gauge: 4-5 stitches per inch.

AslanTrends Del Sur - Fiber Content: 100% Merino Wool; Weight: 100 g/3.5 oz, approx.: 80 m/87 yd; Needle size: 9-10 mm/13–15 US; Gauge: 2-3 stitches per inch.

Loop-D-Loop by Teva Durham Moss - Fiber Content: 85% Extrafine Merino Wool, 15% Nylon; Weight: 50 g/1.76 oz, approx. 149 m/163 yd; Needle size: 3.75-4.5 mm/5-7 US; Gauge: 5-5.5 stitches per inch.

Loop-D-Loop by Teva Durham Fern - Fiber Content: 70% Wool, 30% Nylon; Weight: 50 g/1.76 oz, approx. 74 m/81 yd; Needle size: 9 mm/13 US; Gauge: 3 stitches per inch.

Loop-D-Loop by Teva Durham Shale - Fiber Content: 35% Mohair, 30% Acrylic, 20% Nylon, 15% Viscose; Weight: 50 g/1.76 oz, approx. 67 m/73 yd; Needle size: 8 mm/11 US; Gauge: 3 stitches per inch.

All sales are final and cannot be combined with any other offer. Sale prices apply only to in-stock items.

Latest YBD news!

2010-11-23T16:27:00.004-05:00

Happy Holidays and Holiday Hours
Yarns By Design would like to wish you a happy Thanksgiving and hopes that you have an enjoyable holiday with your family and friends (and your yarn!). We want to let you know how thankful we are to have you as a valued customer. Each and every one of our customers make us thankful for what we do every day at the boutique. Thank you.

The holiday season is here. To get you started on your holiday gifts, YBD would like to invite you to the boutique on Black Friday, November 26, from 10am-4pm, for great savings. Come select from the wonderful fibers YBD offers that will compliment any project that you are working on. We also offer gift cards and great stocking stuffers for the special fiber artist in your life.

Our holiday hours are in effect beginning Sunday, November 28 through December 19. In addition to our regular hours, the boutique will be open on Sundays from 1-4pm. Please note that the boutique will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 25; Christmas Eve, December 24; Christmas Day, December 25; New Year's Eve, December 31 and New Year's Day, January 1.

2010 Fall Fashion Show
Yarns By Design hosted their inaugural Fall Fashion Show on Sunday, November 14 in Oakmont, presenting the newest and hottest lines in the knitting and crocheting industry. Dancers from Sandra Lynn's School of Dance modeled garments from 12 different lines that YBD showcases.

"This is the time of year when all of our new autumn and winter inventory has arrived," said Tamara Hayes, manager of Yarns By Design. "We value our customers and want to give them the opportunity to see what amazing handmade garments and patterns are available. Hosting this free fashion show gives us the chance to spoil our customers with a fun afternoon of fashion, hors d'oeuvre and door prizes."

"The fashion show introduced the styles of today and provided our customers with a broader view of what they can make," said Sandra Donatelli, owner of YBD. "We had a blast."

Fall Fashion Show to be held this Sunday - spaces still available!

2010-11-09T15:48:00.006-05:00

You are cordially invited to join YBD for our First Annual Fall Fashion Show. Fashion, garments, hors d’oeuvre, door prizes and tons of fun guaranteed!

Who: Yarns By Design

What: Fall Fashion Show

Where: Call for details.

When: Sunday, November 14th, 1:30 - 4:30pm

Reservation required / Free event / Space is limited.

Deadline to register is Wednesday, November 10th.

Call 412-832-0657 today to reserve your seat.

Note: Business casual attire is the mode for all areas at the country club. Denim and hats are not permitted. The facility is a smoke-free environment. Use of electronic devices (cell phone/PDA/etc.) is strictly prohibited on the grounds.

Meet Shirley Paden!

2010-10-26T17:00:00.002-04:00

Join us this Sunday, October 31st, for a book signing with internationally recognized knitwear designer Shirley Paden! The book signing will be held from 2-3pm and is free and open to the public. Shirley's book, Knitwear Design Workshop: The Comprehensive Guide to Handknits, will be available for purchase at the boutique.

Shirley is the founder and owner of Shirley Paden Custom Knits in New York City, where she designs an exclusive line of custom-knit clothing. She teaches master knitting classes for the fashion industry and conducts seminars on lace, entrelac, cables, color knitting and finishing techniques. Her designs have appeared in magazines such as Interweave Knits, Interweave Crochet, Vogue Knitting, Knitter's, Family Circle, and Knit It! Shirley has also been featured on HGTV and Knitting Daily TV.

Yarns By Design's hours this Sunday only will be from 10am-4pm. Hope to see you then!

This just in: Louet Mooi!

2010-10-19T16:28:00.003-04:00

Yarns By Design is pleased to announce that we have recently expanded our Louet North America offerings! One of the fine yarns that we are now featuring is Mooi Lace Weight. Mooi (pronounced moy) is a unique blend of fibers that combines rayon made from bamboo fiber with the luxury of natural bison and cashmere. The rayon is dyed, while the cashmere and bison content remain natural, producing a stunning and vibrant visual effect. The fibers are blended prior to spinning. Mooi (which means "pretty" in Dutch) is simply a pleasure to knit and it adds rich lustrous color to any project.

Also on offer are patterns using this fabulous yarn: the Cable & Lace Shawl, Faith (a hat and scarf set that uses only one skein of Mooi!), Katara (a feminine sleeveless top) and Brianna (a dressy t-shirt with an all-over lace pattern).

Stop in today to see and feel this beautiful yarn for yourself!

Join us this Saturday, October 2nd, for the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival Yarn Tasting!

2010-09-28T17:21:00.002-04:00

Yarns By Design is pleased to be participating in the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival's first Yarn Tasting on Saturday, October 2nd! The Yarn Tasting will be held at the Churchill Valley Country Club from 1-4pm and will feature products from Louet North America, Feza Yarns and Blue Heron Yarns.

You will have the opportunity to sample hundreds of yarns from each company, make swatches and test the differences among wools, bamboo, cottons, cashmere, mohair, silk and novelties. Hand dyed, variegated, solids, sport weights, lace weights, bulky, chunky, roving, and so much more. Refreshments, desserts, prizes, trunk shows and giveaways are all part of this new event. All you need to bring are your needles and/or crochet hooks. Spinning wheels and drop spindles will be available to test fibers, but you may bring your own.

Tickets will be sold at the door, but space is limited for this very special event. Click here for more information.

Because we will be attending this event, our boutique hours on Saturday, October 2nd will be 10am-1pm. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but hope to see you at the Yarn Tasting!

Stahman's Shawl Collaboration starts this Wednesday!

2010-09-21T07:37:00.007-04:00

Join us for our Stahman’s Shawl Collaboration, beginning this Wednesday, September 22nd at 1:30pm. The Collaboration is a free workshop led by our customer and friend, Amy, who has been very busy working on her latest shawl to show all of you (shown above, on Tamara). The Collaboration will be held on Wednesdays, from September 22nd through October 13th, from 1:30-3:30pm. Purchase your yarn and the book Stahman's Shawls & Scarves from Yarns By Design and the collaboration is free!

Stahman's Shawls and Scarves, by Myrna A. I. Stahman, focuses on seaman's scarves and Faroese-style shawls. A Faroese shawl is a traditional piece of clothing from the Faroe Islands, often with the distinguishing characteristic of center back gusset shaping. The shawls have two triangular side panels, a trapezoid-shaped back gusset, an edge treatment, and usually shoulder shaping, which allows these shawls to drape over the shoulders and remain in place as the wearer moves, even if the shawl is not pinned in place.

"In 2008 I bought the book on shawls that Myrna wrote and fell in love," says Amy. "I am working on my tenth shawl from the book. I love them!"

Amy also offers the following reasons why you should take the collaboration:

Every technique that you need to know to make these shawls is included in the book. I have learned the easiest way to make those techniques work. I understand what the author meant by those instructions. I have some little tricks that I use to make the pattern go more smoothly and therefore easier/faster for you.
When you knit for a class, you tend to get things completed so that you can learn the next step, and will therefore end up with a completed project.
Knitting with friends allows us to share our progress and encourage each other.

So, stop by the boutique today to try on a few of these beautiful shawls, and join us starting this Wednesday for the Collaboration!

Shirley Paden Design Master Class Reminder

2010-09-07T18:25:00.002-04:00

Go back to school with internationally recognized hand knitwear designer Shirley Paden, who will teach her Sweater Design Master Class on Sunday, October 31 from 11:00am-6:00pm (with a one-hour lunch break). The class is based on her new book, Knitwear Design Workshop: The Comprehensive Guide to Handknits. Spots for this class are still available!

Shirley is the founder and owner of Shirley Paden Custom Knits in New York City, where she designs an exclusive line of custom-knit clothing. She teaches master knitting classes for the fashion industry and conducts seminars on lace, entrelac, cables, color knitting and finishing techniques. Her designs have appeared in magazines such as Interweave Knits, Interweave Crochet, Vogue Knitting, Knitter's, Family Circle, and Knit It! Shirley has also been featured on HGTV and Knitting Daily TV.

Learn to design knitwear with a perfect individual fit! From the initial spark of inspiration to the sewing of the last seam, Shirley will guide you through the knitwear design process. Based on the successful workshops that she teaches to the fashion industry in New York, Knitwear Design Workshop will give you the foundation to take your knitwear designs to the next level with confidence. The class fee is $150 (lunch included). Call the boutique at 412-832-0657 to reserve your spot!

Thursday, on a Tuesday.

2010-08-24T17:34:00.004-04:00

Sandy recently completed the Thursday pattern from Kirsten Johnstone's Assemblage line. Knit out of one strand each of Habu Textiles' A-166 2/30 Ramie and A-177 Super Fine Merino, this lovely top, with a delicate pleated ruffle running down the front, is ideal for layering. Interested in making your own? Both the pattern and a wonderful selection of the yarns await you at the boutique!

Have a finished project made with fiber or a pattern from Yarns By Design that you'd like to show off? Email your name, photos and the project details (yarn and pattern info) to info@YBDoakmont.com, and we'll feature your items on the blog!

Hand Painted Knitting Yarns "Scarf-in-a-Scarf" Knitting Kits have arrived!

2010-08-17T17:21:00.000-04:00

Many of you have asked about the beautiful scarf sample that's been on view at the boutique for months, and now the kits are here! The Hand Painted Knitting Yarns "Scarf-in-a-Scarf" Knitting Kits include four skeins of soft-as-butter yarn in a 60% silk, 40% fine Merino blend, as well as a handpainted silk scarf that's been dyed to match. Knit the included pattern, thread the silk scarf through your knitting, and you have a beautiful new accessory for fall that can be worn in a number of ways! Stop by the boutique to pick up your kit today!

Come on in and see our new fibers!

2010-08-10T16:46:00.004-04:00

The new yarns from TNNA keep rolling on in, and what better reason to plan a trip to the boutique than to come in and check them all out? Here's what's arrived in the past few weeks:

Schoppel-Wolle Cashmere Queen (shown above), Crazy Zauberball (shown below) and Flying Saucer, a uniquely hand-dyed fingering weight yarn that allows for two nearly identical socks
Kertzer On Your Toes Bamboo, a sock yarn in generous 328 yard balls and beautiful colors
Trendsetter Soleil, a yarn with cute leaves and beads interspersed throughout the skein, and Cha-Cha, a wide ribbon yarn that creates rich layers of ruffles as you knit with it
Schulana Mosco, an elegant blend of rayon, mohair and viscose, and Cortina Nuvole, a light-as-air nylon and Merino wool blend
New colors of Spud and Chloe Sweater and Outer
New colors of Habu Cotton Gima

Habu is here!

2010-07-27T17:24:00.004-04:00

We're so excited to announce that our latest Habu order has arrived and hit the shelves! Among the fibers that we now carry are:

A-32, silk mohair
N-68, 1/3.5 linen wool roving
XS-21 and XS-55, L25/3 linen
A-1, 2/17 tsumugi silk
A-166, 2/30 ramie 100
N-67B, 2mm. linen paper
A-20 and A-21, 1/20 silk stainless
N-75, 2/48 fine merino
A-177, 2/48 super fine merino
A-174, 1/8.5 cotton gima

In addition to these wonderful fibers, we've also received several new patterns using Habu yarns, and two books that feature Habu yarns - Haiku Knits and Ori Ami Knits - are on their way to the boutique. Stop in today to see these unique fibers in person!

Shirley Paden Design Master Class

2010-07-06T10:14:00.005-04:00

Please join us in welcoming internationally recognized hand knitwear designer, Shirley Paden, to Yarns By Design on Sunday, October 31! Shirley will teach her Sweater Design Master Class from 11:00am-6:00pm (with a one-hour lunch break) which is based on her new book, Knitwear Design Workshop: The Comprehensive Guide to Handknits.

Today, Shirley is the founder and owner of Shirley Paden Custom Knits in New York City, where she designs an exclusive line of custom-knit clothing. She teaches master knitting classes for the fashion industry and conducts seminars on lace, entrelac, cables, color knitting and finishing techniques. Her designs have appeared in magazines such as Interweave Knits, Interweave Crochet, Vogue Knitting, Knitter's, Family Circle, and Knit It! Shirley has also been featured on HGTV and Knitting Daily TV.

Learn to design knitwear with a perfect individual fit! From the initial spark of inspiration to the sewing of the last seam, Shirley will guide you through the knitwear design process. Based on the successful workshops that she teaches to the fashion industry in New York, Knitwear Design Workshop will give you the foundation to take your knitwear designs to the next level with confidence. The class fee is $150 (lunch included). Call the boutique at 412-832-0657 to reserve your spot!

Call Today to Sign Up for YBD's Children's Summer Camp!

2010-06-29T07:07:00.002-04:00

It's not too late to sign up for YBD's Children's Summer Camp, which will be held July 21 through August 18! The camp is for children ages 9-12 years and will run every Wednesday from 10:30am-12:00pm for five consecutive weeks. Each week the children will have a new project to work on, including learn to knit, kid's notebook, all-together bag, bean-bugs and hand felting. The cost is $30 per week or $140 for five weeks, which includes needles, yarn and accessories. Call the boutique today to register!

TNNA Update!

2010-06-22T16:04:00.002-04:00

Sandy and Tamara have returned from the whirlwind that is The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) NeedleArts Market in Columbus with good news to share - lots of new products are on their way to the boutique!

We are excited to expand our Habu product line and will now offer every color of Cotton Gima as well as all of the Habu yarns featured in the new book Ori Ami Knits, which we will also carry. We will also offer all of the Habu textiles featured in Kirsten Johnstone's Assemblage patterns and Julie Weisenberger's CocoKnits patterns. Also on order are new products from Trendsetter (including the yarn used to make the scarf pictured at right, Soleil), Hand Painted Knitting Yarns, Interweave Books, Gedifra, Rowan, Berroco, Namaste, Authentic Knitting Board and Annie Adams Adornment, Inc.

Unfortunately, with the good news always comes the bad. In this case, the bad is the sobering reality that many local yarn shops across the nation are being forced to close as they lose business to online retailers and big-box stores, and it showed at TNNA. Sandy and Tamara were surprised to find that participation at the show was reduced compared to past years. "The most shocking thing for me at the show was how empty it was," Tamara noted. In an article published on the blog "The Crafty Retailer", a Toledo yarn shop owner explained the situation that so many LYS's find themselves in. With that in mind, we would like to encourage everyone to support their LYS and participate in The 3/50 Project.

We hope to see you soon at the boutique!

Stop in for 25% Off on O-Wool Classic and Balance and Rowan Bamboo Soft!

2010-06-01T14:22:00.007-04:00

We are so sad to hear of the news, but Vermont Organic Fiber Co. will be going out of business. We have enjoyed carrying both the Classic and Balance yarns from the O-Wool line in our boutique. However, this is not the end of O-Wool. The O-Wool line of hand knitting yarns will continue under new ownership. Yarns By Design will be offering 25% off all O-Wool fibers while supplies last. For the Rowan fans out there, YBD will also be offering 25% off the price of the now-discontinued Rowan Bamboo Soft, while supplies last.

Off the needles!

2010-05-25T16:27:00.005-04:00

Sandy recently completed this cute summer sweater, Romi, knit in Berroco Weekend. Romi is a henley placket t-shirt featuring short sleeves and tabbed cuffs from Berroco booklet #296. Berroco Weekend is a machine washable blend of 75% acrylic and 25% cotton that comes in a wide range of colors. The yarn is available by special order at the boutique.

Have a finished project made with fiber or a pattern from Yarns By Design that you'd like to show off? Email your name, photos and the project details (yarn and pattern info) to info@YBDoakmont.com, and we'll feature your items on the blog!

Rowan Purelife Revive: Think Clean, Knit Green!

2010-05-18T18:21:00.002-04:00

Avid recyclers will love Rowan Purelife Revive, a DK weight yarn made up of 36% recycled silk, 36% recycled cotton and 28% recycled viscose. According to Rowan:

Recycling is becoming increasingly important in a world coming to terms with the challenges of environmental, economic and climactic change. We are therefore really excited at the introduction of the new Revive yarn into the Rowan Purelife range.

Revive is completely recycled and recyclable. The first stage of the recycling process is to sort the garments. These garments can be old and used, faulty or even new. They are then sorted out by colour and quality. After being sterilised, the garments are sorted by skilled sorters who divide the garments by fibre composition, i.e., put all the 100% cotton ones together, all the 100% silk garments together, etc. It is at this stage that superfluous parts such as any linings, buttons, ribbons, seams and trims are removed. These sorted garments are then cut into pieces and introduced into a fabric grinder that reduces them to loose fibre. These fibres are then carded to make regenerated fibre, which is then spun into the cotton, silk and viscose composition of this beautiful, high-quality yarn. Revive gives new life to handknitting designs out of once discarded knitted garments.

Yarns By Design is pleased to offer this unique, summer-friendly fiber in seven colors. The accompanying pattern booklet features 15 designs for women and men, including the pattern shown below, Shallot (knit in Pink Granite).

The perfect summer cardigan!

2010-05-11T15:37:00.006-04:00

What do you get when you pair a light and lacy pattern with a linen and cotton blend yarn? Why, you get the perfect summer cardigan for those cool ocean breezes or just that chilly office air conditioning!

The Eyelet Cardigan (from Nashua Handknits Linen Collection booklet) is knit in Nashua Creative Focus Linen, a blend of 50% linen and 50% cotton. With a dozen colors to choose from here at the boutique, you're sure to find your perfect match!

Join us on Saturday for the "mother" of all yarn sales!

2010-05-04T16:56:00.003-04:00

YBD will be hosting a Mother’s Day Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, May 8th from 10-4pm. Come to YBD and save BIG this Mother’s Day! We will have selected fibers priced at only $3 each. And what a wonderful selection of fibers it will be. We need to make space for new inventory. So come and help us out. Also, we will have selected patterns, books and accessories discounted. Hope to see you on Saturday!

A fresh look at Eden

2010-04-27T17:25:00.003-04:00

Using KFI's King Tut yarn, Cathy O. updated Eden (from the ever-popular Ella Rae Book Thirteen: Studio Collection) by knitting this fall pattern in a cool summer cotton. King Tut is a 100% Egyptian cotton yarn featuring a beautiful twist and subtle sheen with great stitch definition. More than 15 colors of this easy care yarn are available at the boutique. Stop by to pick yours up today!

Berroco Origami and Kiama

2010-04-20T15:18:00.004-04:00

If you're a follower of the Yarn Harlot's blog, you probably saw her April 15th post about Berroco Origami and the Kiama pattern. If her post piqued your interest in this unique yarn, stop by Yarns By Design today to see it in person!

With eight gorgeous colors ranging from brights to neutrals to choose from, and a pattern booklet featuring Kiama and seven other patterns to knit and crochet, you're sure to find a welcome addition to your spring and summer wardrobe.

Windansea hat: the perfect summer topper!

2010-04-13T16:28:00.003-04:00

Designed by Kristi Porter and knit in Berroco Seduce, this sunhat provides enough cover to keep the sun off your face, but never feels hot or heavy. The free pattern calls for just two skeins of Seduce (Sandy used color 4436), millinery wire (available at the boutique) for the brim of the hat and elastic for the crown. We have 11 gorgeous colors of Seduce here at the boutique for you to choose from!

Debra's Garden Knitting Gauge Pendants

2010-04-06T15:40:00.002-04:00

Looking for the perfect new accessory? How about a needle gauge that's pretty enough to wear?

This 1.5" x 1.25" lightweight needle gauge is as beautiful as it is accurate. The pendants are available in US measurements from 0-17, and just in is a sock and lace gauge with US and metric measurements from 000000 to 6 and .75mm to 4mm, respectively. Use this handy gauge as a pendant on your favorite chain, as a key ring or bag charm, or as a useful zipper pull on your knitting notions bag. The numbers on the gauge are lasered in and will not wear off. Stop by the boutique to pick up yours today!

Just in at YBD: the Gretel Tank Pattern!

2010-03-30T12:14:00.005-04:00

Stop by the boutique today to pick up the pattern that is sure to be a staple of your summer wardrobe - the Gretel tank! Designed by Julie Weisenberger of cocoknits, this easy and flattering tank uses just two to four skeins of Habu Cotton Gima, making it an excellent value as well.

Habu Cotton Gima is a unique cotton yarn that feels like paper. "Gima" literally means "fake linen" in Japanese, and it feels like linen paper if you do not know it! Currently, we have Oak, Sepia, Cafe, Violet, Olive and Smoke in stock, but more colors are on their way from Habu.

A tisket, a tasket...

2010-03-23T18:41:00.002-04:00

A basket filled with spinning supplies!

Want to spin? We can help! Visit the boutique to shop our fine selection of spinning supplies. We stock Louet fibers including BFL, Merino wool, baby llama, angora, yak, cashmere and silk, as well as drop spindles. Our selection of spinning books includes Spin Control by Amy King, Start Spinning by Maggie Casey and Respect the Spindle by Abby Franquemont. Just in are instructional DVDs including Popular Wheel Mechanics with Judith MacKenzie, Respect the Spindle with Abby Franquemont and Start Spinning with Maggie Casey and Eunny Jang.

This week at Yarns By Design!

2010-03-16T15:10:00.005-04:00

In just a few days, Sandy whipped up this great little spring/summer sweater from one of the boutique's newest yarns, Nashua Daylily! The pattern is the "Scoop Neck Cardigan," which can be found in Nashua's Daylily pattern booklet.

Coming up this weekend is a double-header of cardigan classes — one knit, and one crochet. On Saturday, March 20 from 10:00am-12:00pm, join us as we knit Stefanie Japel's "Cardigan With Ribbing," from her book, Fitted Knits. This top-down sweater is knitted with Cascade 128 — a bulky yarn — and requires no seaming, so you'll be wearing your finished sweater in no time! Bring your hooks for the second class of the day, when we'll be crocheting Robyn Chachula's "Comfy Cardi" from the book Crochet Me: Designs to Fuel the Crochet Revolution by Kim Werker. The suggested yarn for this pattern is Blue Sky Alpaca Silk, and we have a wonderful selection of colors for you to choose from. The class will be held from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Both the knit class and the crochet class will have a second session at the same times on Saturday, March 27. Pre-registration is required for classes, and each student will receive 10% off class materials. Call ahead at 412 832 0657 for more details and to register.

Also, don't forget to stop by the boutique this Thursday, March 18 from 10:00am-7:00pm for Customer Appreciation Day!

Cabled Mitts Class - March 12!

2010-03-09T17:01:00.005-05:00

Photo © Blue Sky Alpacas

Sign up today for our Cabled Mitts class at YBD! This elegant and easy first cable project, knit in Blue Sky Alpaca Silk, will be a blast. You will have so much fun that you will not want to stop! The pattern requires either a set of US size 3 double pointed needles or two US 3 24” circulars, and one hank of Alpaca Silk. We have more than 20 colors of Alpaca Silk here at the boutique for you to choose from!

The class will take place on Friday, March 12 from 11:00am - 12:30pm. Pre-registration is required for classes. Each student will receive 10% off class materials. Call ahead for details at 412 832 0657.

Spring is coming!

2010-03-02T16:31:00.006-05:00

Although it seems difficult to believe when you look out your window, spring will be here before you know it. We are excited to offer some new fibers and patterns that will be sure to freshen up your spring and summer wardrobe!

Rowan Purelife Revive is a DK weight yarn made up of 36% recycled silk, 36% recycled cotton and 28% recycled viscose. The yarn is completely recycled and recyclable. We have seven beautiful colors for you to choose from, and the accompanying pattern booklet featuring 15 designs for men and women.

Nashua Handknits Daylily (46% cotton, 31% acrylic, 23% nylon) is a colorful cotton blend for quick and easy to knit garments. The accompanying pattern booklet includes ten patterns that are sure to be knit up in a jiffy in this worsted weight yarn.

Nashua Handknits Creative Focus Linen is a worsted weight yarn made up of 50% linen and 50% cotton and put up in generous 220 yard (100g) skeins. We have 11 fantastic colors and the pattern booklet features nine patterns for women and the home.

Berroco Origami (58% acrylic, 16% linen, 15% nylon, 11% cotton) is an exciting new yarn for warm weather months. Many multicolored strands run parallel to each other, wrapped by a black binder and it knits into a remarkably light and crisp finished fabric. The pattern booklet features nine designs for knit and crochet.

YBD at the 6th Annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival

2010-02-23T17:40:00.007-05:00

Thank you to everyone who stopped by Yarns By Design's booth at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival on February 13 and 14 at the Four Points Sheraton in Mars, PA. We had a great time at the festival and hope that you did also.

Among the wonderful products that the boutique offered that day were fibers from Gedifra, Rowan, Berroco, Blue Sky Alpacas, Loop-D-Loop by Teva Durham, Habu Textiles, Art Yarns, Louet, Claudia Hand Painted Yarns and more. Also on offer were kits for the "Heart on a String" hat knit in Spud and Chloe Sweater (one kit makes two hats!) and the "Olympic Hat" knit in Blue Sky Alpacas 100% Alpaca Sport Weight. Both kits are still available - stop in at the boutique to pick yours up today!

Check out our newest fibers!

2010-01-26T16:34:00.004-05:00

Mini Mochi by Crystal Palace Yarns (80% superwash wool, 20% nylon) is a very soft self-striping fingering weight yarn that's perfect for socks, lace, garments, or anything else that you can come up with!

Opal Antonia aus Tirol (75% superwash wool, 25% polyamid) is a sock yarn collection from Tyrolean pop singer and knitter Antonia in warm and vibrant colors inspired by the magnificent scenery of the Alps.

Jasmine by Louisa Harding (48% cotton, 39% bamboo, 10% silk, and 3% polyester) is a soft and silky DK weight yarn with just a touch of sparkle.

Rustic Tweed from Queensland Collection (63% wool, 27% alpaca, 10% Donegal) is a subtly shaded DK weight yarn put up in generous 278 yard skeins.

Show us your stuff!

2010-01-26T15:38:00.002-05:00

We love to see our customers' finished objects! Jen knit this lace cowl, designed by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (a.k.a., the Yarn Harlot), out of less than one-half of a skein of Plymouth Earth Ecco Cashmere:

Have a finished project made with fiber or a pattern from Yarns By Design that you'd like to show off? Email your name, photos and the project details (yarn and pattern info) to info@YBDoakmont.com, and we'll feature your items on the blog!