May 23, 2002

We're knee-deep in exciting behind-the-scenes changes at Knitter's Review. They involve a site redesign and a new section of accessories that help extend our love of knitting into other areas of our lives.

Next week I'll tell you more. But in the meantime, this week's newsletter will be more brief than usual.

Changing of the Guard
First, some important news. Patternworks, an icon within the knitting industry for the past 23 years, is changing hands.

The Poughkeepsie-based operation will close and reopen as part of Keepsake Quilting in New Hampshire's Lake District. The catalog and Web site will continue, while plans for a physical shop still remain unclear.

Keepsake is, in many ways, Patternworks' quilting equivalent. The shop has a strong enough Web, catalog, and order-fulfillment infrastructure to accommodate Patternworks' extra load. Its staff has an equally good reputation for customer service.

Nobody likes change, myself included. But I do respect Linda and Marv Skolnik - Patternworks' fearless founders - and I know they wouldn't trust their baby with just anybody.

Let's thank them both for over two decades of constant help, support, and encouragement for the knitting community.

New This Week
How often has someone said to you, "Wow, I've always wanted to learn how to knit." Wouldn't it be great if you could pull out a spare pair of lightweight, inexpensive needles, some waste yarn, and teach them right there on the spot?

This week I've found the perfect needles for exactly this purpose. They're shorter than pencils, lightweight and slightly flexible, and you can give them away without breaking the bank.

Retreat Update
Thanks to everyone who expressed interest in joining us for a fall knitting retreat. We're still working out the details, but the retreat will take place at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, Virginia, from Friday November 8 to Sunday November 10.

It'll be a relaxed weekend of laughter, friendship, and learning how to design the perfect sweater to fit your body. Stay tuned for more information!

In the Forums
Do you have any tips for keeping moths away from your yarn? Share them.

May Subscriber Giveaway
Next week I'll choose one newsletter subscriber to win a $50 gift certificate to Amazon.com. Simply stay subscribed and you'll automatically be in the drawing.

Happy knitting, and I'll chat with you in the forums,

Sincerely,

P.S.-Do you have friends who would enjoy Knitter's Review? If so, use our simple Tell a Friend form and let them know about us.

New This Week...

Tools: Red Heart Starters for Kids
These little guys can come in handy, especially when knitting swatches or teaching others to knit. full review

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(c) Copyright 2000-2002 by Clara H. Parkes. All rights reserved.
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