Iron Horse

Stitch Night!

2012-01-10T17:45:00.000-08:00

Once a month, usually the second Monday night of the month, we open the door wide to welcome all stitchers in crochet and knit to sit around the table, using us what one is working on, show of finished projects and encourage you to continue on. Last night was no exception!

Pam had two of her knitted characters with her, a great Santa and a wizard who was was standing patiently watching over us when all of a sudden his hat would just pop off his head and drop to the table. This happened a couple of times. We deemed him magical!

Barbara showed off her gorgeous cowl made with Iron Horse Farm's hand dyed Merino/cashmere/nylon fingering weight yarn out of the 60 Quick Knits Project book by Cascade Yarns. Jessica was wearing one of her creations as well as another sweater completed in hand.

The sock yarn swap happened again on the floor for those knitting the miter sock blanket and the Beekeeper's quilt afghan.

Overall there was a lot of good cheer, great stitching and wonderful company. Til next month!

It's Thursday!

2012-01-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

Another Thursday has passed. Thursday mornings are a great time in the store. It is a complimentary meet time for stitchers. Whether you crochet, knit, are a beginner or advance, it doesn't matter when all come together for the love of fiber.

We are all enablers! We ooh and ahh over everyone's projects. Someone usually has a great new pattern or book for us to wet our appetite and have to purchase for the store.

Our latest "craze" is Frog Tree's Origami pullover sweater made out of delicious sport alpaca. It is a beginner sweater of two rectangles of a K1, P2 ribbing! Mindless knitting. We have actually decided to make this our KAL starting January 20, Friday from one to five. We will continue this casual meeting of hands and needles (yes, crocheters, we have the crochet version also)until most sweaters are being worn by their creators. Stop in for the whole four hours or just a few.

The leaves of the table have been tucked back into their storage space, the stitchers have left for their lives outside the store and all are inspired and ready to tackle the world!

What should it be - Long or Short?

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

When looking at the list of projects one wants to create, the debate becomes does one pick a short or long project?

If you are a producer, whether it is a detailed project or not, you will finish it from beginning to end with little distractions. Then, if you are like me, I am a productionist who has many projects on the needles or hooks at the same time.

So again, long or short? For long the project will be an afghan designed by Lion Brand called the Slipped Stitch Afghan that will be made out of Brown Sheep's Lamb's Pride yarn. Mr. UPS should deliver the yarn in the colors wanted this week.

For the short, it will come out of the new Knit Noro Accessories book. We already carry the book and all the Noro yarn in this book. So for the moment, the short wins over the long.

2012 - New Year's resolution

2012-01-02T15:24:00.000-08:00

As we head into 2012, many reflect on things that they should have, could have done, thus many of us make resoultions to only break them a few weeks or months later. Let's change that!

Our store in Natick embraced the holiday season with the shelves loaded with hand crafted items from favorite artisans and a few new ones in the local area. We have been well received by the community in Natick. We ahve been in the center of Natick over two years since moving from our small sotre on our farm. Knitters and crochet artisans are still finding us which s wonderful! New weavers and hand spinners are realizing those dreams of being a artisan of years ago by weaving and spinning beautiful yarns are right at their finger tips with workshops and classes we offer.

The decision was made to keep the store closed today to give everyone a much deserved break from the holiday hub bub... It was a busy day at the farm, dyeing our Merino, Cashmere, nylon fingering yarn as well as dyeing new roving colors. The fun part is coming up with different color combinations and that watching them appear as we hand paint or kettle dye.

The farm will be represented at the Farm Wool Days at Russell's Garden Center, http://www.russellsgardencenter.com/wayland_winter_mkt.html in Wayland, Saturday, January 21, 2012 10 am to 2 pm. We are excited about this venture! We have not done any shows in 4 years and this is so close for us to attend. We have to thank Peggy Mallet for insisting we needed to participate. We will have roving, yarn, both natural color and hand dyed, wool felting sample kits and more!

What is one of my New Year's resolutions? To write more on our blog!

When the cottons yarns are all here...

2011-04-26T14:38:00.001-07:00

When the cotton and cotton blend yarns have all arrived, you know that spring is here! We received on Friday the Takhi Classic Cotton and Cotton Lite yarn in an array of beautiful colors old and new. It is a great yarn to work with for summer light apparel for babies and adults.

Another favorite yarn is Classic Elite's "Firefly" made out of linen and viscose. Great for a quick scarf or drapey light wrap.

Tomorrow is the last day to view the Winter Challenge projects that people made. We have woven, felted and knitted items on display. We can't thank all for taking the challenge! We hope you will stop by and look at them in our glass cubes.

Luxurious yarn

2011-03-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

We see a lot of yarn come and go in the store but after Classic Elite released a new pattern in their weekly email newsletter called the Alpaca Sox Shawlette we knew we needed this yarn in the store. It is 60% Alpaca, 20% Merino wool and 20% Nylon. It works up on a size 2 needle or if making shawls or wraps with it a larger needle.

I will be taking a break from the store and the blog for a vacation to some place warm. Considering for the first day of Spring yesterday we were having snow showers and more predicted for tomorrow night and early Thursday, our time away is seeming better and better!

We would love for you to visit the store this next week and show the ladies who are working extra hard, what is on your hooks, looms or needles. We always love to see projects completed or in the works.

Put a Little Spring in your Step

2011-03-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

Today was another nice day in Natick. The temperature was nice, the sun was out though the clouds did keep it from getting hot. The common was alive with families walking and playing with each other and man's best friend, dogs. We even had a visit from Morty! For those who do not know Morty, his Mom first met us when he was born premature and need to keep busy with her hands while he was still in the hospital.

Remember if you have forgotten your pattern or you have saved your ideas on Ravelry, we have a computer for you, the customer, to use. We invite you to use this! We follow the law, which means we are not to print or copy any patterns so we do not have a printer or scanner in the store. Our computer station was the second one in a New England yarn store almost two years ago! It is not just for knitters! If you crochet, weave, hand spin or just want to learn about Ravelry, just ask us. We will be glad to show you.

Our morning class met as an extra time as their 6 week class ended last week. Laura was wearing her beautiful finished KAL sweater. She has been getting compliments every where she visited prior to arriving at the store. Everyone was admiring it in the store. You can see her sweater in the previous post. Some participants will heading up to Marie's new Wednesday evening class that starts April 6 from 6:30 to 8:30. They know good weather is coming and soon gardening and trips to the Cape will fill their weekends. Marie's class will coincide with us staying open that night until 8 PM. We are hoping that those who can't make it in during our day hours will stop in on their way home from work or pop in after dinner to pick up an accessory, pattern, gift or more.

Vintage books, fun gatherings and the winner is...

2011-03-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

My husband and I made a commitment to each other before the holidays that we would start to destash/declutter our house. I said if we just take 5 minutes a day, we should be done in about ... Well on to the point, I was going through some very old knitting, crocheting and needle point books and magazines. We all know that the fiber arts have been around since Man had to clothed himself. I was amazed by these books below. One was printed before I was born. Look at the price! I am sure that was a lot of money in 1950. I can't possibly get rid of these, now can I?

This morning was busy with our Wednesday morning class. This class size and skills have really grown in the last six weeks. I am thrilled that people find great satisfaction in their work and trust me as an enabler, instructor and friend to continue to sign up for our classes. The new session begins with the Saturday classes, April 2. There are no classes next week due to a once a year vacation for me. The wonderful women in the co-op and our employees will hold down the fort while I am away. We hope you will come by and say hi.

I am thrilled to report that Laura, one of KAL knitters has completed her sweater! She came in today to pick out her buttons. The sweater is beautiful! After all our issues with the pattern, she loves the way it fits and she wears it proudly. Her face and head have been omitted on purpose, but look at the sweater! Charlotte is next and Patty might even been right there also. We are now looking for another project.

The feel of warmer mornings in the air

2011-03-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

This morning is a beautiful, sunny morning in New England! There is the hint of spring in the air, the grass is turning green, my gardens are green - with weeds! Weeds already? Come on! But enough of that.

Saturdays are great. We have a wonderful group of women that meet for our Saturday morning 10-12 class. They are buzzing with happenings during the week, show and tell and working on their projects at hand. The group waxes and wanes, depending on if people sign up for a 6 week class session or drop in for one session for help and community spirit to keep them inspired. This is the last week in the 6 week session. It is always a day of mixed emotions. Some will return for another session, some will move to another time and day because they want their weekends free with warmer weather approaching.

Our children's class meets once a month for an hour on Saturdays also. It is amazing to see these young people pick up new ideas so fast. They have little fear. We all learn from them so much.

Our KAL group met yesterday. Yes, C. found more issues with the pattern. We did a brief "meeting of the minds" chat of how we will deal with the issue. The KAL is usually a Knit a long. We are called this our "Kurse a long". But we have still had a great time working together on this. Our next challenge will be picking buttons. We have a lot of buttons, but will they be right? WE will be opening the catalog to possibly place an order.

Spring, a time of rejuvenation

2011-03-11T06:32:00.000-08:00

The snow has melted fast in the last week and we can actually see the ground and on the common in the center of Natick, which we are most fortunate to be able to look out on every day from the store has green grass.

Spring is a wonderful time with rebirth of creative juices as well. Some of the women in the coop have been very creative. Above are just a sampling of Charlotte's new spring quilted place mats. The photo does not do this place mat justice! She also has new wall hangings and doll quits hanging.

Barbara and Roberta have been at their sewing machines as well and hand sewing some adorable items. The little fish bags are great for a small one skein project and gadget bag or for children. The penny rug style pin cushions that Barbara created with sheep on them are just adorable!

What's on the needles? We are still working on the KAL side to side Cardigan. Some are working on the finishing, I am on my second side, and a couple are still working on the first side. The Woodland turtle neck cowl will be blocked this evening , the second sock is in the processed work getting to the foot and too many other ideas! Of course Berroco and Classic Elite are always filling our email in boxes with great ideas.

Socks!

2011-03-10T06:10:00.000-08:00

Last night was the completion of our 4 week sock class. We offer this class about every 3 months. I am really proud of these women! One had made a complete pair plus working on her second pair! Every one else was well on their way to finishing also. One had made socks before but never with yarn so fine and needles so small. J was new to knitting and she had only started knitting about 3 weeks before the class, being taught by her fellow participant and future mother-in-law!

We had lots of learning and many laughs. Look at what great colors they chose also.

This morning is our weekly Stitch group from 10 AM to 12 Noon. This is such a fun, lively group. It is wonderful to see what all are working on each week. People come and go all morning. We just sit around our large table and stitch, telling stories and enjoying each others projects and company. We also tend to enable each other also. LOL Anyone is welcome to join us.

Glamour bracelets

2011-03-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

Last night Joan S. held the Knitted Bead Bracelet class. This was a true coop effort. Patty and her daughter, Leslie put the kits together of beads, special thread, toggles or clasps and bead threaders. Joan taught the 3 hour class and the store hosted the event.

It was fun to watch everyone comment and chose their kits. Then they were off to string all those beads. Joan was also making a bracelet, demonstrating how this was done.

Joan took wonderful photos of their completed bracelets. They are still more beautiful in person. Look at the end results! GORGEOUS! We hope everyone wears them in good health. These make wonderful holiday or special occasion gifts. Interested in a class? Let us know and we will be glad to schedule anotehr class. Need more supplies? Kits will be available next week in the store for sale.

Time is ticking

2011-03-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

Friday is always a nice day in the store. People looking for weekend projects, strollers come into see what we are all about and it is the KAL meet up day.

Everyone is progressing so nicely on their Side to Side cardigans. Time is ticking away and the projects are getting closer to the end. We have already started to talk about our next project. WE will keep you informed. I promised to take a picture with no humans in it and thought this photo came out great! Okay- someone's feet are in the picture but I promise not tell who they belong to.

After taking the photo, I noticed that the jewel tone ladies sat on one side of the table and the autumn tones were on the other side.

We are getting ready for the knitted bead bracelet class on Monday evening. Patty brought in some gorgeous kits she has put together for Joan to sell Monday evening. I did take a few out so people can see them before hand. There is still space in the class for any who are interested! Kits will be available for sale after the class runs.

Take a measurement

2011-03-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

As the saying goes, "Ye who dies with the most toys wins!" We are always suckers for cute gadgets and these are not just for knitters! People who sew, need a tape measure also. Collect them all! There are sheep, chicken, bears and more. These are the newest collectibles from Lantern Moon.

Lantern Moon is a cooperative entity where the profits are returned to the Vietname people for substainable living. We are proud to support them.

Project bags are also in stock. Look for new project bags from Unique Boutique, members of our co-op.

For those watching the woodland turtle neck cowl progress, here it is after two - two sessions. More than half way through! You can not see the beauty of the lace until it is off the needles and blocked.

Will keep the progress posted!

March is here!

2011-03-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

Yes, we know, we have not been writing much in two months. Hard to believe! The New England weather has been, well New England! Snowy one day, warm the next, thunderstorms in the middle of winter. In other words unpredictable.

Some of you may know that we have a knit-a-long in process in the store. It has been fun to work through the sweater pattern as well as see what otehr knitters have chosen for colors. Stay tune for Friday. We will try and take photos this Friday.

The one shining ray is that we are predictable! We are open six days a week, Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM. If we have an evening class, we are open until 8:30 PM. We suggest you call before traveling over in the evening to make sure we are here.

We are itching for spring to arrive. Today was a beautiful, blustery, sunny day. We are actually seeing a little green on the ground in Natick common. That got us motivated to start the new free Woodland turtle neck cowl from Classic Elite. We are knitting it in the green colorway. It is a beautiful yet easy lace pattern.

Stay tune for more nature inspired projects.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T06:33:00.001-08:00

The dawn of a new year brings hopes, expectations and resolutions to make this year the best year. We have to comment about last year first. Last year was the first year in our new home in downtown Natick. The hard work, long days and nights and bringing in inventory, new co-op members instructors has had a wonderful response from all. We thank you for every day, not just once a year.

Thank you to our co-op members who help out in the store as well as bring us your beautiful hand crafted items for all to enjoy. When they are given as a gift or purchase for oneself, they are receiving something truly special. Their items are available throughout the year and they also welcome custom orders.

What is the new year bringing for you? The list of classes is on our website that are ones you have asked when they will be offered again or you have stated you are so glad they are still be offered. We learn as much from you as you learn from us! It helps to improve our teaching style.

New yarns for the new year have started to arrive. You have asked for more cotton and more luxury yarns and they are coming! We will still have the favorites also. Berroco Flicker is in the store now. A luxury yarn with alpaca and a tiny bit of glitz. Glitz and novelty yarns are coming back this spring, but they are not the novelty yarns of years past.

We have brought back out project of the month theme for those who have wanted to be inspired year round and not just in the summer to keep you motivated in the warm months. We have posted it in our newsletter but briefly it is a sweater called Amherst by Dolce Handknits. A fun, easy, fast, raglan top up cardigan with fun bottons. That will start Jan 3! The yarn we are using is Berroco Peruvia. I am making it out of Abusar If we don't have enough in stock we will custom order what you need. Berroco is so good at sending orders right out also.

We just introduced a new KAL (knit along) This was first suggested to us by Kate F. . She and I have the same taste in knitting and we both laughed when we showed each other the same pattern! It is knit side to side but using color work through out. We have a sample pattern in the store and will be ordering them and the Lamb's Pride yarn as a special order just for those who will be participating. We do request payment at the time of placing the order. This will be ongoing until one of us finishes it! Please join us Thursday mornings to stitch, bring it to stitch night the second Monday of the month or work on it at home.

There is so much more to talk about today but it is a day off for me and that means farm work. I am "skirting" fleeces today to get them ready to send off to the processors to have more natural color roving made.

FYI, thank you Kate, the date for the monthly spinning group is incorrect in the newsletter, it is Friday but the 28th not the 29th. That is what I get for not proofreading at a reasonable hour.

Something special

2010-12-18T22:18:00.000-08:00

As the shoppers came in from the cold today and our morning class was leaving, it was exciting to watch as a mother and her two young daughters came in. They were there to pick out yarn for their Dad's gaitor (cowl) and the youngest daughter, around 9 years old, was picking out yarn to make a scarf for herself. She had just started to knit and was ready to advance to her own skein of yarn. We suggested Berroco Comfort worsted weight for the price as well as the flexibility of being able to wash and dry in the machine. She was so excited when she left. She was going home with a variegated ball to sit and knit with her mother this evening.

Another customer walked in near closing and immediately said hi to me. I knew I recognized her but couldn't place her. She told me that she had been the student nurse assigned to me this summer while having surgery. She had asked about a logo on my bag - the logo of the store and I had told her about the store and co-op. We had talked about her going back for her degree, though she had been a nurse for quite a while. She came in today to see what we were all about. She was particularly interested in some of the quilted items for purchase. She loved the tree skirt. She was thinking of it being a gift for her daughter who lives in Hawaii. Her daughter will be home for Christmas this year and she was thinking the snow scene on the tree skirt would give her little bit of New England to take back with her.

It is so much fun to hear about people's life stories. Everyone is so interesting!

How Many More Days?

2010-12-16T13:57:00.000-08:00

It has been unusually bitter cold the last few mornings here in the northeast. We understand there has been snow from the southern relatives south of Washington, D.C. Even the post office was closed today!

How is the holiday stitching going for you? For us, the march of time still beats on...

A pair of mittens to be completed... in Manos Maxima.

For those who have heard the saga in the store of the "husband" hat, here is the finished plain ol' watchcap that he loves. It is made out of our farm's merino/llama yarn in natural colors.

Picking Out the Right Gift...

2010-12-14T13:49:00.000-08:00

Joanne's mitten and sock

Do you have any one on your holiday gift list that can be difficult to buy for? A cute little idea for a fast, quick gift item that can be used later as a ornament or a key chain is the little Mitten or stock key chain form. It comes with the pattern inside to stitch more than one. So for those who appreciate a little thoughtful piece of you, yet may not knit, this is perfect!

Gift certificates are available in any denomination. They may be used for any merchandise in the store or towards a class or workshop.

How is your holiday knitting going? Some of us are under more pressure than most. All our custom orders for the store are done. Now it is the deadline for the family and friends knitted gifts.

Stitch night

2010-12-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

Stitch table before Stitch Night

Tonight is "Stitch Night" where stitchers come together around our table once a month to show us what is their work in progress, lament over a pattern and share the love of what we do. The holiday time is always exciting with people trying to finish up those last minute gifts. Some, like me, will be wrapping at the 11th hour and maybe even putting an I.O.U. in the box.

We all get inspired during these gatherings. One month a gentleman told me his wife was so excited when she got home that she couldn't sleep with ideas running through her head.

Feel free to join us, for a free fun fill evening from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, the second Monday night of the month!

Holiday Hype?

2010-12-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

Today, I had someone withdraw from our newsletter stating that there was too much holiday hype among other unflattering comments. I had to chuckle. She had signed up for the newsletter herself, we didn't solicit her. My conclusion is she never physically visited the store and spent a few minutes talking to us. She has not experience our passion and love of fiber or the gift of giving a little of ourselves to each other.

Yes, we are a business. There are aspects of that side of Iron Horse that means we need to "advertise" some of the items and services we offer. We are most fortunate to have people from all races and religions visit our store. We have always been very respectful of peoples individual beliefs. If you know me at all, I will not allow the Christmas tree, the menorah or any other holiday decoration be displayed until after Thanksgiving, unlike other places where "holiday" music was playing in September. We do offer suggestions in our newsletter for gift giving ideas because no matter what your beliefs may be, it is a time of giving of one's self and a small materialistic gift might be how one expresses themself. Many people make gifts to give to love ones-family and friends.

There is nothing like the joy of watching someone open a small token from you, wanting to bring a little joy into their life. I received many tokens today. One was from a dear friend who recently had a life altering event happen to her and her family. She was having a bad day. She was in the store and as she left, she hugged me. I was most touched. We have hugged before but there was something about this hug that meant something special to both of us. Another one of those small tokens today was from someone, who through visiting our store has become my friend. She is loving, giving of herself and comes a distance to visit about once a month. Sometimes, we are busy with new "friends" to be able to sit and enjoy each other's company while she is here, but she has also given her heart to others in our coop. She always offers to help anyone in any way she can.

We have built a community. A place where we care about each other. It is not about the commercial aspects of the store. As we go forth preparing for this season of joyful celebration remember, a hug, a thank you and even a concern about a love one goes a long way. Thank you to all of you who have made Iron Horse in Natick a home away from home.

Happy Chanukkah to our Jewish friends as you celebrate the first night. Let the "oil" burn on.

2010-11-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had lovely weekend, full of family, food and great shopping deals! We had a great turn out for our Black Friday sale. Many people took advantage of the Small Business Saturday as well. It was great to help you all find just what you were looking for. Stop by the store for your picking of a special lot of yarn from Fleece Artist called Big Blue, we have beautiful generous skeins with 250 yds of bulky weight handpainted BFL. The skeins are much prettier in person, but here is a sneak peek......

They are going fast at 25% OFF! Come on in to the store and see what we have!

(Jessica)

The Days After...

2010-11-27T22:49:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a good holiday. We jumped back into the retail world on Friday morning with our Black Friday Early Bird Sale. We are so pleased that many of you took advantage of our sale and visited us. The store is a great place to be, especially when the creative juices are flowing. We are also delighted that people are still discovering us. The Boston Globe's article in Thursday's paper was great for Natick and us. It is wonderful when people tell us that they are trying to shop local to support the small businesses in their own back yard. Yesterday was American Express's promotion day for shopping at small businesses. We know this worked because we accepted the most Amex credit cards for purchases ever in one day. Thank you!

We received a great order of buttons on Wednesday. We have been looking for more cute children's buttons as well as large buttons for sophisticated hand knit. We think you will be pleased with our expanded collection.

Today starts our Sunday Holiday hours. We will be open every Sunday from November 28 through December 19, 12 to 4 pm.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T11:56:00.001-08:00

We have just closed the store for the Thanksgiving holiday. A personal thank you for Barbara for being a trooper and helping out in the store today. We were bustling and I could not have done it without her help!

I said I was not cooking but I will do a little tomorrow. What is Thanksgiving without turkey?

For those, like us, who have lost loved ones this year, we hope your holiday will be filled with love and wonderful memories. It is a time to be thankful for the time we had with them.

We are thankful for our health, family and friends. We are thankful to you our dear patrons who have become friends along this journey called life. We have been most fortunate to build relationships among /with many of you. We are most thankful for your support and love.

Getting Ready...

2010-11-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

The holidays are upon us once again. This year will be a day of thankfulness for the wonderful people I have met along my journey through life and especially my family and friends. We have decided to take the day "off" and spend a quite time at home before the craziness starts at the store.

We start the season with opening our doors at the store on Friday at 7:30 am for some early bird specials. We have some wonderful gift ideas for those looking for hand crafted local gifts as well as great wonderful yarns and accessories. Don't forget the Classic Elite and American Express promotions we talked about last week. Scroll down if you didn't get to read about them.

This morning is a morning "off", if you will, to stay home and work on the computer work for the store. There are always so many hidden things that need to happen to have a business run. It has been a huge eye opener this past year as we took the store off the farm.

The dye pot is also been steaming for a while with socks I took off the antique circular sock machine last night. Production on socks have really slowed down since moving. I miss working on them so last night was a good night as I took a total of four socks off. This morning they went into a mordant bath for 2 hours and are now in dye pots cooling down.

Last night I got my Christmas gift at the store. My husband kept asking me all day what I was doing and what time I would be home. Since I teach many of the evening workshops, this was not an unusual question until he kept asking it. He called to say he was dropping by the store around 4 pm. Okay, no biggie, but then he just sat there. He then wrote a note to me saying he had a surprise for me. We were busy and usually he will just leave. My husband can not keep a surprise! For those who have heard the store of our engagement and him giving my ring , you know he can't keep a secret. All of a sudden, I see him and Paula Kochanek of Five Crows headed off some where down the street. The next thing they are heading back with Skip holding an amazing piece of stain glass!

Last year, when we decided to open in Natick Center, I approached Paula about commissioning her to do a couple of pieces of stain glass for the store windows. When chatting, she brought up from her cellar a drawing and the vintage glass of a ram's head. Since we were trying to bring some of the aspects of the farm to the store, this was the perfect piece for her to finish for us. It had been drawn and cut out over 15 years ago! It looked just like our first Shetland ram, Dartmouth. Well as with many of us, life just got in the way, Paula and I lost touch with our vision for this piece. As our one year anniversary approached, Skip contacted Paula and the two of them work together for Paula to finish this amazing piece of art and they both presented it to me last evening. I can't thank them enough. What a wonderful act they both created. It proudly hangs in the window at the store. My photo does not do this piece justice. It needs to be seen in person. We hope you enjoy "Dartmouth".

Life's Little Pleasures

2010-11-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday's morning and afternoon classes are compromised of some great people. Saturday afternoon "I" surprised us by showing off her socks that she had made in one of our Happy Feet Sock workshops. She has since made two more pairs as well as many other things. I made her show us a little leg and her socks.

We have finalized our Janaury class/workshop schedule. We have some old favorites as well as new ones up. Can't wait to get them up on the web site for all to view. Our six week classes start up again as of December 1 until January 31.

Today has been a busy day with meeting with the Classic Elite, Tahki Stacy Charles, Dream in Color and Southwest Trading Co. Believe it or not it is exhausting looking at so many yarns and great colors. We want to make the store fun and exciting as well as inviting.

Coop members are bringing in wonderful winter and holiday items. It is starting to get colder out, the one of a kind, ready made scarves, mittens and hats can help with those last minute gifts. Table runners, placemats, honey and more are great hostess gifts when visiting during the holiday time.

Lastly, lip balm from Iron Horse Farm is back in stock! I spent most of Saturday evening making each flavor and then Sunday was label making time. It is made with all natural ingredients and a little flavoring.

More Great News for Shoppers!

2010-11-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

The store belongs to the Natick Center Associates. It is a wonderful non profit group of small independently owned businesses that work together to improve Natick Center as well as host some of the great events on the common each year. Check out their website.

They sent out a great email this afternoon for those who shop and for small businesses who accept American Express cards. Iron Horse accepts all major credit cards including American Express so this is very exciting. Add this to the Classic Elite offer we mentioned yesterday and it is a win-win-win situation!

This was the email:

We are pleased to announce that American Express is running a special on Saturday, November 27th for small businesses. Use your registered American Express® Card to shop at participating businesses on Small Business Saturday - November 27, 2010 and you will receive a $25 statement credit when you spend $25 or more. For more information and to enroll as participants, please visit Small Business Saturday. Happy Shopping!

Classic Elite's Gift to You!

2010-11-18T12:35:00.000-08:00

If you do not get Classic Elite's Newletter, here is a great promotion from them, for us and most importantly YOU!

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Do you Love Your Shop?

Classic Elite wants to give back to those who risk it all to follow their dreams, open yarn shops and keep them open in these changing and challenging times. In fact, we have so much faith in those dreams that we want to give everyone a present.

Spend $40 or more on Classic Elite yarn or books yarn or books between now and December 15th, send us a copy of your itemized receipt and we’ll send you a recent pattern book and three mini-skeins of Classic Elite Yarn, just for buying local.

It's our "thank you" to all the knitters and crocheters who recognize the value of supporting our local knitting communities.

Find out more about the Love Your Shop giveaway on our

blog and view complete rules and details on our web site.

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We have nice line of Classic Elite yarn and books for you to chose from. We will be happy to show them to you when you visit.

Just Another Day...

2010-11-17T16:24:00.000-08:00

Last night our Mitten Workshop participants finished up their two session workshop. Most had finished one mitten. Some were discouraged, but we hope they felt better as they left
knowing that all of us make items we are not always pleased with. The decision then is can we live with it, or rip out and start all over again. Sometimes sleeping on it makes it seem more tolerable.

Three of our participants came in today during our two hour drop in session that we offer three times a week for $15.00 a session, to work on their second mitten and become inspired to continue on. It is a wonderful feeling to see people pleased with what they have accomplished.

These workshops and classes make a community. We laugh, tell stories, cry, share stories about our families and build on relationships. It is wonderful for me to be able to greet people by their first name when they return. They all of have become an important part of my life, even for a brief moment. Just like stitching, weaving or felting, we are building something.

Above I am "building" a hat as a Christmas gift. I have a long way to go. The yarn are from our animals on the farm. Llama and wool. It is yummy!

The Boston Globe is writing an article that will be in the Globe West, Thanksgiving Day (I was just told) or Thanksgiving Sunday about shopping locally. What does the customer get out of shopping in a small community downtown area like Natick verses the malls? I talked to the reporter at length on the telephone yesterday. Today she surprised me with a visit. She was in to talk to customers about their experiences shopping locally. One of our customers at the time was a good friend, Karen. Karen also owns a small restaurant in Lexington called Nourish. Karen was my go to woman when I was trying to decide whether to move the store off the farm and were to go. She was the one that suggested Natick Center. I never tire of listening to Karen talk. The reporter was very interested in what Karen had to say. The one phrase that Karen said that still sticks in my mind is, "We are building relationships when we shop and eat at local independently owned businesses."

New Gifts in the Store.

2010-11-16T12:50:00.000-08:00

It seems we are at the crossroads of the seasons with fall really gone, yet winter and the holidays are yet to come. The cold weather is not upon us. I say "thank You!" because I am not a cold weather person. So why am I in still New England? For the love of a good man and now my daughter has moved back from the south and she threatens death if I even think of moving...

Hanukkah is early this year, starting December 1. Check out our window displays each week. We move our artisans' around for the window displays.

It seems we are always looking for cute baby gifts. Want something out of the ordinary? Think of a beautiful quilted baby blanket. A group of friends can go in on special gift that will last a life time. Baby socks are always a nice touch also. Joanne just sent pairs of striped socks in 0-3 months and 6-12 months sizes.

HiyaHiya dumplings are back in stock. These make great stocking stuffers or Yankee swap gifts. Look out on the horizon because we have more great little gifts coming in soon.

Sunny Day!

2010-11-13T05:16:00.000-08:00

Yes! We have had sun for the last two days. This is a good thing! Things always look better when it is sunny, don't you think? Saturdays are always fun with our classes and seeing friends that are busy working during the week that come by on this day.

This week has been busy with representatives from yarn and button companies calling on us to place spring orders. Yes, I said SPRING! It is sometimes hard to to envision what spring will be like when we have not even started into winter yet. I do have to say that there are some new beautiful yarns and buttons coming out. We are excited about the spring line up so far!

One of the areas I think we lack in are the patterns for the crocheters in our lives. I always say that crocheting has been like Cinderella in the fact that she got left behind for the ball but I think she is getting dressed right now. Last year, Tahki Charles dedicated a whole booklet for crochet. The book is in the store. This coming spring Berroco will also have a booklet that has crochet and knit in it for the person. Can't wait for the book to come in!

Just in! Look at the new sock yarn that just arrived. Opal sock yarn. It is the original hand painted, self striping yarn. The colors are gorgeous and so much fun. Right now they are in baskets next to the hand crafted jewelry by Eileen and Joan.

Our coop has been bringing in great items for the holiday season. The Unique Boutique women have some wonderful items for Hanukkah. It is early this year so don't caught without your Judicial items. They make wonderful gifts also. As some of you know we also welcome custom orders. Please note that if you are thinking of a handmade item as a holiday gift, please drop by soon. The members need time to work with you and create your item. We don't want anyone to be disappointed.

Next week we will be winding down our evening workshops until after the holiday season. There is already a great line up on our website with many more to be addedfor January. Our 6 week instructional classes will continue. If you are able to drop in on a session, it is $15.00 for two hours or if you would like to commit to joining one of our groups, we would love to have you and those are for 6 weeks for $75.00. The next 8 session begins December 1 and runs through until January 31. These classes do have an instructor present ready to help with bumps in the road.

Veteran's Day

2010-11-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

As we drive to work, shop, enjoy each other's company today, let us take a moment or more to thank all those men and women before us and present who have unselfishly protected this country for the sake of freedom and the persuit of happiness.

I proudly could be called a "retired" military brat. My mother remarried when I was 12 to a wonderful man we fondly called "Sam". That was not his given name by his parents but by my sisters and I for the man who came into our lives and was in the military. Remember Uncle Sam wants YOU! campaign and posters? That is how Carl became Sam. He graduated from the Naval Academy and served in the United States Navy most of his career - there was a short stint in the Army before the Naval Academy. He served through the Korean War and Vietnam. Though he was not always physically there as he served his country, he was there for us. He passed away 13 years ago from prostate cancer, but I will always remember how proud he was to be in the Navy. We saw a part of the military life both wonderful and sad that has been an experience of a life time. .

Last year, I met a wonderful woman who was in the store visiting her hometown of Natick. She was a military naval nurse veteran of WWII and the Korean War. Her stories were fascinating. Just six weeks ago I met a amazing woman who was an army nurse during the Vietnam War. She spoke one evening, sitting in the store, just the two of us about the war and over 40 years later, still shed a tear for those she was not able to save. My brother in law now also serves in the military and has been to Afghanistan and Iraq many times. Let's be proud of our "soldiers". We salute you all.

There is a parade to honor the veterans today in Natick, I am presuming, because there are "no parking" bags over the meters this morning as I arrived. We are still open and do know you can park in the parking lot at the end of our building.

Happy Birthday!

2010-11-09T06:22:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe we opened our doors to our new location one year ago today. There has been a lot of hard work and long hours put in in the last year . The most valuable part of all of this is the absolutely wonderful people we have met along the way from our new yarn reps, new co-op members, as well as the ones who have been with us throughout the years, and last but most importantly our customers who have now become our friends.

We are thrilled when people walk in for the first time and we can show them around our "home". We are so excited when people come back and share their life stories and their stitch work with us. The people who have come in to buy a hand crafted item from our co-op members have really appreciated the work and time involved in creating a one of a kind item. You all have brought us gifts, through your kind works, your purchases and spreading the word about us.

Someone was just visiting last week and said she was not a craft person, she was in to purchase a hand crafted item, but felt when she walked in the door that she was at home. We feel the same way and so glad that others understand.

Thank you to all of you who have helped to make our first year in Natick a success!

Berroco Trunk Night

2010-11-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who were able to join us Friday evening. Andra was running late due to traffic but she arrived with flair as always and everyone helped her unpack the suitcase and started trying on garments! It always more fun with you have friends around to try things on and get their opinion. We had such a great time we are thinking of holding this event again when the spring/summer lines are available.

For those of you whom we ordered yarn for you, the order was placed today and we will be calling you as soon as Mr. UPS arrives with the box.

Berroco just released this great one sheet free patterns with the purchase of the yarn to go with them. No more heading to the computer to find them on their website or on to Ravelry. We will have them behind the register so just ask to look at them when selecting your yarn.

This weekend was my sister, Sheri's birthday. She surprised me with a visit- the first one to the area in 6.5 years! It was wonderful that she also was here for the Berroco event and got to meet so many of you. Thank you for making her feel welcomed.

Tonight is Stitch Night! It is always a great monthly evening of fun! Hope you are able to join us.

Berroco will be here!

2010-11-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

We are very excited about our exclusive Berroco trunk show tonight from 6 pm to 8 pm. Andra from Berroco will be here with some great garments, free patterns and wonderful advice! You are welcome to try any of the items on also. Bring or wear in your Berroco fashions. We hope to take pictures to post them on this blog tomorrow. Come for as long as you like. All Berroco pattern books and yarns will be 15% off this evening only! Let the fun begin!

Classes galore!

2010-11-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a busy day with people calling and coming in to sign up for our Mitten class night week for 2 sessions. It is a great time to pick up a new skill that can be portable and fast. We are thinking cold weather projects that make great gifts. We are thrilled our mitten class is FULL.

Puppy Snips are back in stock in all the colors! They are perfect for the person on the go. Squeeze the feet and the "head" comes off to display a great little pair of snips to cut your thread or yarn. Don't miss out our your favorit color- we can only purchase them as an asssoted bunch.

New project bags from Classic Elite called Blossom arrived today. Everyone who works in the store wants them! They are made out of a cotton blend and fully lined. They are made in the USA also.

Books are in! Cowl Girls, is just what it says, a book full of cowls! Weaver's Companion and Crocheter's Companion are great pocket reference books for people on the go. New England Knits is back in stock. There are so many more for weavers, knitters and crocheters, please stop by and look.

The last session of the beginner hand spinning workshop is tonight. This has been a great small class with people just "flying" through their fiber. As a treat because they have advanced so fast, they will have the opportunity to use a drum carder, carding Ll lama and then spinning it. They also will have the chance to try Navajo plying and plying from the same ball of singles.

Heaven on earth!

2010-11-02T14:30:00.001-07:00

Today marks a day in our nation, for those who are old enough and are citizens, to vote, to have a voice. We have wars going on in the Middle East but in downtown Natick, we have heaven on earth, well at least to touch and view. Today, a large box from Knitting Fever Distributors with Debbie Bliss DK cashmerino arrived in assorted colors. YUM!

The best part about it is, it is soft and machine washable! Feast your eyes and just feel it. It is great for baby wear as well as adult.

The next item and certainly where we feel heaven on earth comes into play was the Debbie Bliss "Andes", 65% baby alpaca and 35% mulberry silk. The colors are shown to the left.

In the same box was Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk Aran. Luxurious and can be worked with larger needles so the project just flies. We have neutral tones in burgundy, tan, dark brown and gray.

Unique Boutique brought in great items for Hanukkah as well as totes and hand bags. Yesterday, Patty brought in scented hot pads. The aroma of cinnamon and other scents makes you think of apple pie and holidays. For those who love her dog biscuits, hurry in, they don't last long!

It is the beginner knitting class members last class tonight. They have done extremely well. It will be fun to see their items as well as encourage them to continue on their new passion.

Finally, we have a "feel good" story again. Some may know that we have been the target of some shoplifters.We are better equipped to deal with them now but in the meantime, some wonderful hand crafted items as well as hand dyed and painted yarns disappeared. A woman who works next door to us had heard the story and brought in vintage bears and rabbits she has made from old quilts, too tattered to fix but great for stuffed animals. She offered them to us to sell and to use the money to compensate those who had lost merchandise through the hands of others. We are overwhelmed with her generosity and kindness towards strangers. Her animals are beautiful! We will proudly sell them and in turn will also make a donation to her charity of choice. Again, a little heaven on earth in Natick Center.

The life of a hand dyer...

2010-11-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Remember I talked about hand dying some yarn for Kate a couple of days ago? Well here it is almost dry! It is a beautiful heather blue color. It will be ready to take to the store on Thursday for our stitch group that meets on Thursdays from 10 AM to 12 NOON.

Many nights we are crawling around the portable dryers as yarn and roving are strung throughout our family room. I am very lucky to have such an understanding husband.

This week is a week of transition for our co-op members. They will be taking Halloween themed items out and be bringing more handcrafted items in for Thanksgiving and the holidays. We always have local Honey from Rosemarie's bees as well as new all natural honey candies. These make great hostess gifts as well as Charlotte's holiday table runners and place mats.

On to another subject, for those of you in the Saturday morning class who just LOVED the poncho the woman from CT wore, we have the pattern! It is in one of our booklets by Classic Elite. The Montana yarn is also on its way. I can't wait to stitch this one myself. It will be wonderful over a jacket or coat or worn alone. It is made on US 13 needles so it should whip up in no time! Elaine, our representative was in to place the order for Montana but she also teased us with the Spring line. She also brought in more of Audrey by Schaeffer Yarns. There is a beautiful shawl made with a free pattern from Schaeffer that is inspiring everyone to use this wool/silk blend.

Elaine also brought us some Chris yarn from Schaeffer. This is beautifully hand painted yarn in a worsted weight and the best thing is the softness as well as it is super wash so it is machine washable!

The Clapotis Wrap class was tonight with Jessica. It sounds like everyone really progressed in the class. They have two weeks to do "homework" and then will come back in for a second session.

Tomorrow evening is the last class for the Beginner Knitting Class. This group has really excelled and most have made at least two projects in just six weeks. It is always with mixed emotions I say, "See you soon" to a class ending. Many come back again.

The Sock Yarn-One Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns that go way Beyond Socks! book by Judy Durant arrived this afternoon. What a terrific book once again!

Writing the newsletter

2010-10-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

Since we don't receive many trick or treaters here, I thought I would take a few minutes to walk you through the process of producing the monthly newsletter each month. This time of year is always so hard because there is SO much to tell you about, we don't want it to be a novel, yet have enough information to be informative.

The process actually starts mid month trying to remember new items from the co-op members and new yarns or special events we want you to know about. Then it is taking and collecting photos to inspire you!

Once things are collected, it is time to write, rewrite and insert photos. This can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours- there is a lot of playing around with where to put the articles as well as what photos work best. Once that is done and if there is time it is emailed to a proof reader and many times finds problems with grammar or spelling. What can I say? My fingers working faster than the brain some times.

Once she has received it, we chat on the phone, hoping we have found all the problems and then it is set to published in the wee hours in the morning so when you wake up and go to your email in the morning, we hope it is a pleasant email waiting for you to read.

November's newsletter will be in your inbox in the morning!

And the wheels go round and round..

2010-10-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

We had a great time last night with new faces, familiar friends and an assortment of wheels. It is always a pleasant night when relaxing and playing with fibers. The wheels were working hard as we worked on merino and tussah silk, shetland, and other blends. For me it is nice to be able to just enjoy the people who come into the store, spending more time talking about fiber.

After spinning, the dye pot was cooking yarns from Kate's collection that she decided she wanted dyed with indigo. I had just dyed with indigo and still had some of the dye bath remaining. It is now drying. Can't wait for her to see it at stitch group on Thursday.

More dyed roving arrived from the processors in lovely lavender, baby blue, teal, turquoise, soft yellows and more.

If you are not back over the weekend, enjoy yourself and don't let the goblins get you!

Ye who dies with the most toys...

2010-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Stitchers are always looking for fun gadgets to keep us happy while stitching. These make great stocking "stuffers" for the holiday season.

We just got a new shipment of Nancy's Knit Knack items. We just love items from them. For all those stitchers here is the notion case. They come in assorted colors of hot pink, green and brilliant blue. They are terrific for stitch markers, needles row counters and more. If you sew they are great for bobbins, thimbles, needles and thread.

Their needle and hook gauge card is the best we have ever used. It has all those sizes that most gauges do not like 2.25 mm and 2.75mm. It is made of a hard white plastic and very easy to read. The knitting abbreviation cards are also back in stock. This is a great quick reference when on the go.

It is our spinning gathering tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 for all to enjoy. The camera is ready and hopefully we can finally get some pictures of all the great wheels and their owners.

Doing something good

2010-10-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ever gotten up in the morning and think of the day ahead and pleased that you are doing something good that day for someone else? Today has been one of those days. During the course of a week, we share personal stories, tragedies, happy times and frustrations. This morning I met with a group of young women who have not had a great life so far in our store to get them interested in a craft. It was wonderful to see these four teens come to life talking with each other and starting to get to know each other through some yarn, a crochet hook or knitting needles. Three of the four have chosen a crochet project.

Another feel good subject, in more ways than one, is the Baaay State Blanket Project. Our farm belongs to a cooperative of Massachusetts wool growers and in 2009, wool was pooled together from anyone who wanted to participate from Massachusetts to have blanket made with our own wool. The wool has been spun and woven in Massachusetts decreasing our carbon footprint as well and keeping things local. These blankets are incredibly warm. They make wonderful gifts also. We have a sample of the 2009 blanket, some sizes still available, with the 2010 plaid to arrive soon. The proceeds go back directly to the producers for their expenses. The price list is in the store or for more information please call our friend, Nancy Miniter at 508-653-3121 or cell 508-740-3839.

It's Fall?

2010-10-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

The leaves have turned color and are falling off the trees and yet it is over 70 degrees! Just a little warm spell for southern New England. I was very touched by the power of knitting today and thought it deserved sharing!

A customer and friend, Iris came into the shop today. I had helped her get in touch with Juli at Chiaogoo to ask them if they would donate needles for a wonderful cause. Juli, of course, stepped right up and asked how many pairs and what sizes Iris would need and a package shortly arrived.

Iris volunteers for REACH (Refuge, Education, Advocacy, Change), a battered women's program. Iris wanted to shared with me a story of one of the women she works with at the program about knitting. This was published in their Vol 6, Issue 2 - Fall 2010 issue. May you feel the powerful voice of "Tina'" and the joyous, positive process of building her life through knitting.

"I am taking a knitting class. It is through REACH and is quite simple: two sticks, string and knots. The finger placement can be cumbersome and holding those sticks isn't always easy. I can't seem to hold on to all the items and then recall which I do next, over or under? I call to Iris and Diane repeatedly, and they patiently show me. sometimes sitting down next to me and allowing me to duplicate their movements in tandem. I learn to do something and take it home. I knit or purl until I get confused because it doesn't look right. I put it down and wait until Monday when Iris tells me what it is and offers to do the dirty work of ripping out stitches. Once I dropped a stitch and Diane worked through the previous row to fix it for me.

The unobtrusive, non-abusive way of learning was unimaginable in my life prior to July 2007 when I put my abuser out of my life. My life expectancy was running out every minute being with him. Always full of criticism and harsh appraisals of my handiwork, even in areas where I really shine. His abusive tactics were undermining. They made me doubt myself and I became his staunchest supporter and most vocal ally of his assault on myself.

I really still can't quite grip how he did what he did, but I continue the process of ripping out old negative thoughts and dropping his derisive condemnation. Now as I knit. with every stitch I hear the positive voices of the knitting ladies. With repetition, their feedback will extinguish my self-critic, negate my negative neural pathways and become my own. - Tina "

Long Time!

2010-10-25T06:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the summer flew by and we were not good about keeping up with our blog. With all the new and exciting things going on, we need to keep you informed often but don't want to clog up your email inbox, so we will attempt to be better this time.

New Merchandise - Joan has just brought in some great knit, felt hats for the cooler months, these great pieces are a piece of art as well as a fashion statement!

Charlotte has some of the cutest Halloween themed wall hangings/ tablerunners as well some great place mats. Why give candy, when they can enjoy Halloween longer with a place mat?

New Yarn just in is more of the very popular Trail Sock yarn from Fleece Artist. There are two new colorways, one is soft lavender and violet they call plum and the other one is "Brew" a new color yet to be released. Hemlock and Stardust arrived also. This yarn is wonderful for socks as well as the very popular "Willow Cowl".

Manos Silk Blend is in stock in a wonderful array of semi solid and hand painted variegated colorways. Stop in to see a couple of the patterns we have stitched up as one skein gifts for the list of friends and family.

On the horizon - We are very excited about a fun filled evening planned for Friday, November 5 from 6 PM to 8 PM. If The Sweater Fits : A casual and on occasion frenetic meeting of knitters to try on favorite Berroco designs. Andra Azars from Berroco will be here with her trunk(s) loads of Berroco sweaters, scarves and more for all to look at and try on. We invite anyone who has made a garment from Berroco yarn or their patterns to come by and show of your handwork! We will have light refreshments that evening. As an added incentive all Berroco yarns and patterns will be 15% off that evening only!

COUPON SALE! 25% OFF

2010-06-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

Celebrate the ArtWalk in Natick Center this week. We are offering 25% of selected yarns. Enjoy 25% off Berroco's Pima Cotton and Week-end, Tahki Stacy Charles Classic and Classica Lite Cotton and Classic Elite Premiere, Firefly and Katydid. These are all great yarns for summer and early Fall knitting and crocheting. Why wait until Fall for a sale on these great yarns?

This offer can't be combined with other offers. It is valid today, 6/17/10 through Saturday, 6/20/10.

Don't have the coupon? That is because they are in the store, conveniently, so stop by and pick one up off the table to redeem. The coupon must be presented at the time of purchase.

Thank you for your support!

Christmas in July!

2010-06-14T19:52:00.001-07:00

We have some great new workshops planned for our Christmas in July. Check out our website for the full list at http://www.ironhorsefiberart.com/ The goal is to keep your needles and hooks busy while helping to spend the summer stitching!

Tonight was the Stitch Night. It was a nice group of women that were able to meet. There were about 12 of us. We welcome a new stitcher to our group, Pam S. It was so nice to Joni again also. It has been too long. Everyone loved the new yarns from Fleece Artist! Jessica was helping to enable many. Jessica was taking it all in while tryign t ofinish her beautiful Firefly sweater Thank you everyone for the show and tell from small chic hand bags to sweaters, socks and more.

We now get ready for the ArtWalk Thursday evenign from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. We are hoping for great weather. What could be better than sitting outside, enjoying the evening, stitching, spinning or felting with the sidewalks coming alive in Natick Center?

New Yarns from Fleece Artist and Iron Horse Farm

2010-06-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

Where has this week gone? It is hard to believe it is already Friday and we have not updated you on all the wonderful yarns that are new in the store. We wanted to have some new yarns and roving in the store for the ArtWalk celebration on Thursday evening (June 17- 5:30 PM to 8:00PM) so we got out the dye pots as well as getting in cashmere/merino/nylon blend sport and fingering/sock weight yarn, our blueface/shetland blend yarn for dyeing. We also put in an e-mail to our friends at Fleece Artist. Once again the ladies did not disappoint us! We got a rush shipment of Nyoni (65% Merino, 20% kid mohair, 10% nylon, 5% silk-325m/115g) - it's back - great for socks, shawl and more! Their new yarns, Saldahna (100% Merino 1200m/125g!) and Ottawa (92% Wool, 8% Viscose - 250m/125g)

Look for our new feature also of little flock of sheep in bright colors that shows you where the latest new yarns are located in the store.

We have a contest for you! Help us name our little yarn sheep and if your name wins you will receive a $25.00 gift certificate to be used in the store for books, patterns, accessories, yarn or roving or towards a workshop in July!

Natick Annual Art Walk

2010-06-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

We are preparing for the Art Walk, Thursday, June 17, 5:30 to 8:00 PM. We are one of the highlighted stores for their theme this month of "Agri-culture". We invite all of you to participate! There will be new hand painted rovings, yarns prepared by Debbie and hand crafted gifts placed in the store just for this evening. We would love for you to stop in to knit, crochet, bring your drop spindles or wheels, quilters are most welcome also as we join in celebration of our heritage and show off the fiber arts.

This will happen come rain or shine. If nice weather you will find some of our co-op artisans on the sidewalk and in the store. We will have some chairs for outdoor sitting also.

Book Group

2010-06-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those who participated in our monthly book group this month. The book was Pat Conroy's South of Broad. The discussion was great, the stitch projects were being worked on and it was a pleasant evening all around.

Our book for July is Cokie Robert's Founding Mothers. Ms. Roberts discuss what the women were doing while the men were founding the nation. An intriguing book! We hope you will join us to read and discuss this patriotic book on Wednesday, July 7. Also bring your book list you would like to discuss for the fall. We will not meet in August.

Summer knits

2010-06-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

June is here! It is always fun to come up with some simple -fast projects to make, especially with spring/summer games with the kids, waiting at doctor appointments or just wanting a "mindless" project. With the weather getting warmer, silk and silk blends are easy on the hands and beautiful to touch...

This is Serena by Manos. A nice slouch hat for all seasons. It is a one skein pattern. A nice hat that slouches so the hair is not flattened. We have details in the store.

This is a close fitting cowl by Jessica Rudenauer, our girl Friday. This is her first published pattern. It is a one night project and it is made from Manos Silk Blend. One skein also! Jessica's pattern is in the store.

Though it may be warm out, we like to keep the needles and hooks moving. Tomorrow morning is our free stitch group from 1o AM to 12 PM. Join us!

The ol' Kitchener...

2010-06-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ever had a pattern calling for starting with a provisional cast on and immediately you know that they are calling for the Kitchener stitch down the road or you want to make socks and the dreaded Kitchener is waiting at the end? Don't let the stitch prevent you from making that great item.

Check out the Spring/Summer Vogue Knitting magazine this season on sale now. No affiliation here but they have done a wonderful job in their article on "Beyond Kitchener". It shows more than using it with the stockinette stitch.

If you still do not understand the great "weaving" invisible stitch, drop by, we will be glad to help you!

Tomorrow night is Book Group night - 6:30-8:30 PM! Can't wait to discuss South of Broad.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T10:04:00.000-07:00

Today is Memorial Day in the United States. It is a time to reflect all that our fellow Americans of all race and religion have given to our country so that we may enjoy the freedom we have today. We chose to keep the store closed to honor the men and women who have given their time, talents and some even their lives or limbs for us. Thank you.

It is time for Summertime Project of the Month! We select a fun, easy and fast project for the months of June through August to keep everyone motivated to stitch as well as a way to have your name put in a drawing for a $25.00 gift certificate that may be used in the store for yarn, patterns, books accessories or classes.

What are the details? Stop in, select and purchase the yarn(s) we have selected for the project, receive the free pattern or we will tell you where you can find the pattern for free on the internet, stitch it up in 30 days or less and show us the finished project. At the time we see the project completed we will enter your name in for the drawing. June's project is in the store and it is a mobieus cowl from Andra Azars, one of our yarn reps. The cowl is long enough to be wrapped twice or wear it long as an accent piece. A great holiday gift... The finished cowl must be shown to us by June 30. The drawing will be July 1.

We have been waiting for this new yarn from Fairmount Fibers and Manos, Serena and we are not disappointed! It is a blend of alpaca and cotton, a trans-seasonal yarn. It is light weight and the pattern book that accompanies it is great! There are variegated and semi solids that compliment each other. Check out their free patterns also. There is a wonderful Serena Shadow Shawl just for this yarn.

20% off all Madeline Tosh! Exclusive to our blog readers starting June 1. We have some beautiful Madeline Tosh DK and sock weight yarns that we are discounting. When they are gone, they are gone! Don't miss out. You must ask for the discount at the time of check out. All sales are final.

Turbo Knitting

2010-05-27T18:44:00.000-07:00

How many watched American Idol or Dancing with the Stars and were knitting frantically while the judges made their decision, tallying up the American public votes and finally telling us who won? Congratulations to the winners -Lee on AI won and Nicole won on DWS. Jessica was betting Lee and I on Nichole. There was some turbo knitting during those final episodes.

As we sat around yesterday waiting for a new Berroco shipment to arrival, new ideas were popping into our heads. Berroco has some great free patterns on their website! We grabbed a couple of work up for all of you to see. One picked is Andoa that will be made in Ultra Alpaca in a beautiful heather blue.

The Comfort DK and DK Prints are finally starting to arrive. This has been a long anticipated shipment. It is comparable to Comfort Baby and is machine washable and dry. Look at one of the new colorways that is on the shelves now... This is "Bluebells". Yummy!

Tomorrow will be another fun day. Meeting with yarn reps is always like the holidays, we make out lists and then wait with anticipation.

Stay Cool with Summer Projects!

2010-05-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since writing! The store has had a semi new face lift with new displays. Our stitchers have new models to show you and even during this unusually hot weather we are cool with the air conditioning on, summer cool colors of yarn and plenty of time to help you find the right project for the summer.

Don't forget we start out monthly project of the month in June. which come in, purchase your yarn and many times, pick up the free pattern or we will tell you where to get the pattern for free and stitch away. At the end of the month, stop by with your finished project and we will place your name in a drawing with the prize being $25.00 gift certificate!

Barbara and Joan are working on great knit felt hats for the fall for sale, Jessica and Jamie are working on their latest knit tops, Patty has a couple of shawl on her needles as well as Tunisian crochet, Charlotte is busy with quilts, place mats, table runner s and more. Roberta and Kerry are working on new gift items and Debbie just finished the July Project of the month as well as just starting "Buttercup" in Pima Cotton by Berroco.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

We wish to all women a Happy Mother's Day. No matter whether you are a mother of a human offspring or not, all woman have a nuturing side to them and we want to recognize you for it.

Thank you for nuturing the store and all the artisans who participate in the co-op to bring wonderful hand crafted items to the communuiyt. The jewelry piece above has been handcrafted by Joan Sebastian.

The bees are a buzzin'!

2010-04-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

May is finally on the horizon. Where did April go? We did have few April showers and already so many flowers for May have come and gone but we are still here! The Natick Farmer's Market begins in two weeks and the common will come alive with people, fresh vegetables, herbs and local craftsmen.

The store has been updated once again with new displays and great spring and summer yarns and patterns.

The very popular PollyMacc Designs small pattern pamphlets are restocked and available in all their patterns. Polly and Ginny are local designers that have a real bond to the local area.

May is Joan Sebastian's Trunk Show from May 1 through 22. Joan is so talented in many areas. She knits, felts and makes wonderful jewelry. She also teaches quilting, beginner's knitting and jewelry making with a local continuning education program as well as occasionally offering a class at Iron Horse.

We are most honored and pleased to have Barbara Delinsky as our guest at our monthly book club this month. We will be discussing her latest novel, released in Janaury, Not MY Daughter.

Yarn Holiday and more!

2010-04-22T05:20:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who stopped by early Monday morning to visit and select yarn for your new projects. It was wonderful seeing so many of you. it was nice to catch up with some of you also.

Unique Boutique's trunk show ends this week. They have had some terrific hand bags and totes in the store in lively, bright spring/summer colors as well as ultra suede and madras prints. Only day or two left so don't miss out.

Joan Sebastian's wonderfully hand crafted jewelry will be our featured artisan trunk show for May. Just in time for Mother's Day and the graduations coming up. Her show will be in the store from May 1 through may 22.

We have done a little spring reorganizing in the store for everyone to view the yarns and some of our handcrafted items better. One of our new displays really features some of our great cotton yarns by Takki as well as having their pattern booklets right with the yarn.

It was like the holidays yesterday. Jessica and opened a huge box from Berroco with new colors in Comfort worsted as well as some new Comofrt DK and Sock yarn that we have not carried before, but many of you have asked for it so we now are stocking the shelves with it. Comfort Baby will arrive soon also!

Jawoll Color Aktion is a limited edition of the Lang Jawoll sock yarn collection. It just arrived last week in six color ways! It is made with wool, bamboo and nylon. This yarn is from Germany, great for socks with a self stiping pattern and reinforcing thread included. But this yarn is not just for socks, imagine a beautiful lace scarf or shawl or even a fine gauged vest.

Marathon Monday

2010-04-18T18:34:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe it is already Marathon Monday. Runners from all over the world will be running one block away from the store. It is unfortunate that some can't get here due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland, but we will enjoy the ones who are able to be here.

We are open for the Boston Marathon. We have our first Marathon Monday sale in the store starting at 7:30 to 10:00 AM Monday, April 19. Get up early, stop by before going to work or if you are a lucky one, have the day off and stake your viewing spot on RT 135 (Central Street)to watch the runners. To sweeten the pot, we are offering 25% off all in stock yarn! At 10:01 AM the prices roll back to retail, but in the meantime it is the early bird who gets the most choices...

What's on your needles?

2010-04-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

We meet great stitchers every day, whether they are new to the craft or have been stitching for more years than they care to tell us. We are always asking what is on your needles (or hooks)? It is great fun when someone pulls a new skein of yarn or a project almost finished out of their bag.

We thought we would take a moment to show what is on the needles of one of our busy stitchers in the store. She is working with Berroco's Week-end. It is a cotton acrylic blend in beautiful spring/summer colors. If we ask nicely, we might even see this as a display model soon!

Stop in and show us what is on your needles!

Another Trunk Show

2010-04-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

On the road again, are Barbara and Roberta of Unique Boutique & More. These two great women have collaborated for only a couple of years but have come up with some great fabrics and color combos for their hand bag and tote lines. Stop in the store April 1-22 to see what they have on display and for purchase. They love working with customers in designing and creating one of a kind pieces. Custom orders are welcome. Remember Mother's Day is just around the corner...

Spring is here!

2010-04-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since posting. New yarns have come into the store as well as new hand crafted gifts from the local artisans. Our April trunk show features creations from Unique Boutique & More. Their items in the trunk show are for purchase or feel free to discuss witth the women a custom order that will be unique just for you.

The Natick Common is green and full of life. Some sit at our stitch table and enjoy the view!

New yarns are Madelinetosh handpainted 100% merino fingering weight, Madelinetosh DK superwash merino. Superwash merino and cotton are in from Swedish Yarn Company in pastel colors.

Our Thursday stitch group has really done a great job with "Stitching for Babies". Newton Wellesely Hosptial sent us a wonderful thank you note and letter. Our volunteer stitchers have brought in items on their own also. Thank you! The thank you letter is on the table for all to read when you stop by the store.

Our workshop schedule is filling up with some great spring workshops and classes for young, mature, experienced and inexperienced participants. Come join us!

Local Author to Visit the Iron Horse Book Club in May!

2010-02-23T14:20:00.000-08:00

For our May 5th book club meeting, local author Barbara Delinsky will be joining us to discuss her latest novel, Not My Daughter. A $10 fee will be charged, as with every meeting, and refreshments will be served. It is sure to be a great evening!

Please call ahead to reserve your spot for this meeting as seating will be limited. We can be reached at (508) 647 - 4722.

And think about joining us for earlier meetings as well! We meet the first Wednesday of every month and work on our fiber-related projects while discussing our latest read. Our picks for the next few months are as follows:

March 3rd: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

April 7th: The Book Thief by Marcus Zuzak

May 5th: Not My Daughter by Barbara Delinksy

June 2nd: South of Broad by Pat Conroy

July 7th: Founding Mothers by Cokie Roberts

Happy Reading!

March Book Club

2010-02-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Bring your knitting and come join us for our March book club at the store! We will be discussing The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. We meet the first Wednesday of the month, our March meeting will be on Wednesday 3/3 from 6:30 - 8:30pm. A $10 fee is charged which includes refreshments.

Be sure to check back at the blog soon - we will have a local author joining us at an upcoming meeting to discuss her latest novel. Further details will be released here as soon as dates are confirmed. Happy reading!

Think Spring

2010-02-02T10:16:00.000-08:00

I beginning to get tired of the cold, dull colors of winter (never mind the temperature!)
Spring is in the air and on my needles. I just finished up the Spring basket. It is felted (don't you just love felting!) I'll have the sample in the store and will be offer a workshop on it in March. Can't you picture a beautiful primrose or pansies in the basket??? ahhhhhh spring

Charity stitching

2010-01-27T05:33:00.000-08:00

A little side note to the last post. We will be creating wonderful crochet items also. Found some great free charity crochet patterns to use. Love crochet baby blankets!

Great things to come... Giving back... Stitch for Babies

2010-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

A few of us got together to brainstorm how we could give something back to our community. Many of us have knit hats for chemotherapy patients as well as hats for soldiers but we wanted something that would benefit the community locally. One of our new favorite customers delivered a baby boy, 8 weeks premature. She came in to pick out yarn to knit for her tiny baby to make him look more "baby" than the hospital linen. LIGHT BULB! Who can resist a baby? Not any of us!

We will be knitting preemie and newborn hats, booties and blankets (the size of a nice hand towel)for sick and premature infants at Newton Wellesley Hospital in Newton, MA. There is a real need for all those infants who stay past their mothers' stay to be seen as babies as well as us wanting their families to see them as babies, not just connected to tubes and monitor leads. There is a huge appreciation from the families that receive these small gifts.

We will have free patterns for all to select or knit up your own. Join us any Thursday morning from 10 to 12 to sit and stitch (free) and work on these projects or join us the first Saturday afternoon every month, our first meeting will be February 6, from 1 to 3 in the afternoon to stitch for babies!

Please use a yarn that can be machine washed and dried since we all know babies can be spitty or accidentally wet their bedding. Ask us at the store how you can get a special offer on Berroco's Comfort yarn to use for these projects.

All donations are greatly appreciated! If unable to join us at one of the stitch times, donations may be dropped off at the store any time. Debbie will package and deliver the items to the Special Care Nursery personally once a month. Please place your name in with your donations so we can thank you! We will have pictures soon.

Fun, warm, fast keyhole scarf

2010-01-15T17:28:00.000-08:00

Wow. This was an awesome project to work on and the Brown Sheep Burly Spun Yarn was divine to work with. We'll be offering this as a workshop in February. Watch your email for info.

Norah Gaughan Men

2010-01-13T19:15:00.000-08:00

Another recently completed project by a store employee is the Wilson Hat from the Norah Gaughan Men pattern book. Knit by Kirsten as a belated Christmas gift for her father, this was a quick knit with an easy cable pattern. The Berroco Peruvia was a dream to work with and the pumpkiny-spice color really showed off the pattern well. This book has tons of great patterns and we carry a wide range of the Peruvia, as well as the Ultra Alpaca, among others. Stop by and see for yourself!

What's on your needles?

2010-01-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

This is a question that is asked often to those of us who knit in the store. We promptly pull out the projects (yes, sometimes many to one knitter) and show them off, telling all where the pattern came from and what yarn we are using. it is like parents showing pictures of their babies!

One of the current projects on Debbie's needles is a pair of angora/merino blend gloves for a gift for a family friend. I am down to the last 3 fingers on the last glove. Love those 5 inch double point needles!

Monthly Book Club

2010-01-02T08:15:00.000-08:00

Our monthly book club will be meeting Wednesday, January 6th from 6:30 - 8:30pm. We will be discussing The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry. A captivating read set in Salem, MA - knitters and crafters alike will find themselves drawn to the history of Ipswich Lace and the women who have the mystical gift for reading the lace. Rich with local history this is sure to be a read that will provide us with plenty to discuss.

A $10.00 fee is charged for each meeting of our book club. This fee includes tasty refreshments and a night of knitting and crafting along with good conversation. A great reason to venture out of the house after all of the snow we have been having!

Welcome to our store!

2010-01-02T07:42:00.000-08:00

The Iron Horse shop recently moved from Sherborn, MA to downtown Natick. Our new space is located at 3 Pond Street across from Bakery on the Common. We invite you to come check out the new store and all of the new classes, yarn, fiber art supplies, and handcrafted gifts we have to offer. There is something for everyone!

Check out a sampling of some of our upcoming classes. To sign up for any of these classes, please contact us at (508) 647-4722 or visit our website to download a registration form. We hope to see you soon!

January & February Workshops and Classes

Beginner Knit Workshop
This 6-week workshop is designed for the people who have never knitted before or need a refresher course. In this 6 week class the objectives will be to learn to knit, purl, read a pattern and make a project of your choice. Materials are not included in fee. First night we will discuss projects and get you started with pattern selection, yarn and beginning.
Level: Beginner or basic refresher

Limit of 6 students

Dates: Tuesdays, Jan 5, 12, 19, 26, Feb 2, 9, 2010

Time: 6:30 to 8:30 PM

Fee: $125.00 materials not included

Instructor: Debbie Smith

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Advanced Beginner Knitting Workshop

A 6-week workshop for those who are ready to move on from beginner basics of learning to knit and purl. Suggested patterns and yarns will be available in the store (as of January 2) prior to the workshop.

Level: Advanced beginner
Limit of 6 students
Dates: Mondays, January 18, 25, Feb 1, 15, 22, 2010 (no class Feb 8)
Time: 7:00 to 9 :00 PM
Fee: $125.00 materials not included
Instructor: Kirsten Fournier

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Crochet Chain Bracelet

In this class you will learn to crochet a basic chain and add beads to the chain. These two simple skills will allow you to create a delicate, multi-strand bracelet using wire and various types of beads. The skills that you will learn can be applied to making necklaces as well.

Level: Easy - previous crochet experience not required.

Limit of 5 students.

Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Fee: $35.00 A kit including all needed materials will be provided at a cost of $20 to be paid to the instructor the night of the class (cash or check only)

Instructor: Joan Sebastian

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Crochet Spiral Bracelet

Learn to crochet a spiral tube with seed beads and turn the tube into a bangle-style bracelet. (Only very simple crochet stitches are used.) This bracelet will be finished with a focal bead. The techniques that you learn can be used to create necklaces as well. Seed beads are small, so (if needed) please bring eyeglasses/ magnifiers to see your work more clearly.

Prerequisite: Knowledge of basic crochet is required.

Limit of 5 students

Dates: Wednesday, Jan 20, 27 & Feb 3, 2010 (3 Sessions)

Time: 6:30-8:30 PM Fee: $85.00 plus a kit including all needed materials will be provided by the instructor at a cost of $20 to be paid to the instructor the night of the class (cash or checks only).

Instructor: Joan Sebastian

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Learn How To Spin

Learn how to spin wool and wool blends on a spinning wheel. The workshop will introduce the student to the wheel, how it works, how to maintain the wheel and how to spin and ply. If spinning from the student's wheel please talk to us before the first session. Wheels are available purchase or on a limited basis for rent. Spinning materials not included. May be purchased at the workshop.

Prerequisite: Own or rent a wheel. It needs to be in good working order.

Limit of 5 students

Dates: Thursday, January 7, 14, 21, 28 (4 sessions)

Time: 6:30-8:30 PM Fee: $125.00

Instructor: Debbie Smith