With the economy's job market the way it is, starting a new hobby right now, might be just out of reach. With knitting, now is the time. Besides the beautiful results you can obtain, it is a wonderful stress reducer.
For tweens and college students as well as adults, here are some suggestions to help you find the materials you need for little or no cost:
The Knitting Guild, is a member of the National Needlearts Association. There are local Guilds in your area and meet once a month. The fee for the year is $25 and you will get more in return. Included in the fee are classes, parties, swaps and getting together with people who love knitting. There is always someone their to help you.
Knitters always have a stash that can contain, extra needles, yarn, counters, magazines... At a Guild swap it is customary to bring something to trade. Though, there have been times there is a lot of stash leftover, after people have taken what they want. That is the time to stock up. It will seem like your birthday. Newbie's are always welcomed and encouraged.
The library is a great place to checkout knitting books and magazines. There are free apps and ones for as little as $.99. Local yarn shops all have discount yarn bins, most at least 50% off. Free patterns are available everywhere on the web.
Second hand stores are also a good place to find circular and straights, hooks and yarn. Sometimes the yarn is still in the sweater and requires a bit of unraveling. Get a large men's sweater. A sweater in good condition made from wool, silk or even cashmere can be unraveled, skeined and washed with great results.
If you know older women who dont knit anymore, they may have a wealth of knitting paraphanalia around the house. People who are moving or spring cleaning... may want to reduce their stashes too.
Get the word out, even family members may be able to help you. There is also Freecycle and Craigslist available. Post a wanted ad stating what you are looking for. You may be suprised. You could end up having a stash before you finish your first project.
Sign up for knitting eNewsletters. It will keep you up on the latest info and you will be made aware of sales.
InDetail Studio located at 395 West Avon Road Avon, Connecticut 06001, 860-404-0694, is having a sale. Many new additions to the $5 or less bin. Yarn closeouts, saying good bye to some favorites...making room for the spring arrivals. It's a wonderful time to shop & save! Debbie Bliss's Donegal Luxury Tweed Chunky: $12.32 skein (reg. $18.95) Louisa Harding's Millais: $5.17 ball (reg. $7.95) and Plymouth's Galway $4 ball (reg. $8).
Stop by and see what savings can be had. Knitting is a hobby you will have for many years. Try using Plarn. To follow, subscribe above and receive the latest articles in your email box.
Comments