Noro the World of Nature - Volume 26 Noro: the World of Nature is an amazing must have for Noro fans. Not only does it have stunning new patterns for Noro yarns; it has all you ever wanted to know ABOUT Noro yarns. There is a bio about Eisaku Noro himself plus pics of employees and their job descriptions. There are great pics and descriptions of all the yarn making processes from shearing (the sheep really do start out white!) to dyeing, blending, carding and spinning. Plus there is a nice Noro yarn index detailing yarn specs and colorways.

Felt Easy and Fun FELT: Easy and Fun is a beginning needle felting book by the renowned Birgitte Krag Hansen. (you may know her from Pixie Felt and Animal Felt.) She is in another hemisphere of talented and artistic and her other books may have made needle felting seem a little out of reach to us average crafters. Not so this book! The figures in this book are small and done more simply than those in other books. She published this book with teachers in mind to make the craft more accessible to all age groups.

Beautiful Sheep Beautiful Sheep: Portraits of Champion Breeds is the coffee table book of the year. For fiber enthusiasts anyway! There are almost 40 different sheep showcased with beautiful photography and all their specs to boot, including features, size, origin and distribution along with  a map.

Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting Knitter’s Rejoice! Alice Starmore is back in print with Alice Starmore’s Book of Fair Isle Knitting. Whether you have always been a fan and can’t find her out of print books, or you loaned yours and never got them back, or if you are a newbie and interested in THE place to learn Fair Isle technique, rest easy. This book includes the history of Shetland and Fair Isle types of patterns with charts, all the technique you could want, patterns for sweaters, mittens and hats, and a section for designing your own patterns. 190 pages for a lifetime of Fair Isle knitting for only $24.95! Crazy!!

Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting Crochet in Color is new for you crocheters out there. Cute updated designs using unique color combinations make for interesting and delightful new patterns. This should appeal to beginners and experienced crocheters alike with plenty of technique and easy to understand graphics.

Products featured in this post:

Noro the World of Nature - Volume 26

Felt Easy and Fun

Beautiful Sheep

Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting

Alice Starmore's Book of Fair Isle Knitting

Schacht Maple Niddy Noddy Schacht Cherry Niddy Noddy Hold on…check this out,  Schacht has developed a Bulky Flyer unit that you can interchange with your Ladybug, and Matchless wheels, it even comes in cherry.  If you are looking to extend your plying volume or want to work in a bulkier way this flyer is a godsend.   Schacht doesn’t create new fly by night pieces, so you know it will be a quality piece,  something you’ll have forever and exactly what you’d expect from Schacht.

Schacht Ladybug Bulky Plyer Flyer Package Schacht Matchless Bulky Plyer Flyer Package Also… Some of Schacht’s older ridgid heddles (pre Flip) are looking for a new home.  We have a varied inventory of heddles that we are clearing out, so check and see what dent reeds you have and if you need any other sizes and give us a call.  They are all priced at $30.00.

Products featured in this post:

Schacht Maple Niddy Noddy

Schacht Cherry Niddy Noddy

Schacht Ladybug Bulky Plyer Flyer Package

Schacht Matchless Bulky Plyer Flyer Package

We just picked up a few new items that for those of us in the knitting realm will be adding to our bags of tricks here at Halcyon Yarn.  Sometimes you have to just say, “What the heck”… in no uncertain terms and pick up the sweet little addition or the practical, (but I already have two of those) things and just let it go.  So, without further ado, we thought you might like to have a peak at what those novelties might be.

Halcyon’s Very Own… Needle Gauge!!!

Halcyon Yarn Needle & Hook Gauge

It’s Plastic… and very cool, especially if you are an Addi Turbo Nut that cringes at the idea, never mind doing the inevitable needle size check with a #*@metal…. gauge… ugh!! The thought really is disheartening.  It’s sizing measures from triple zero lace needles all the way up through 19!  A must have to tuck into any project bag.

Debra's Garden Socks & Lace Needle Gauge Pendants

Debra’s Garden “precise” needle gauge pendant…

It’s for socks and lace.  Pick one up for a great gift, for yourself or for the knitter in your life.  Item #70740402

New from K & A, “Memoric Heart Stitch Markers” 20 count.

Memoric Heart Stitch Markers ( 20)

We all at one time or another knit for love…  babies, boyfriends, or the partner in your life… these sweet stitch markers remind you where to make the right stitches as well as who you are knitting them for.  Just another little do dad that’s fun and different.

Products featured in this post:

Halcyon Yarn Needle & Hook Gauge

Debra's Garden Socks & Lace Needle Gauge Pendants

Memoric Heart Stitch Markers ( 20)

“Spin Control” by Amy King

Spin Control

If you want to learn a lot about spinning in a way that is fun, colorful and extremely informative then this book will appeal on every level.  Amy writes the way we speak.  If you are a new spinner this book is very easy to understand which makes beginning the craft a lot less daunting and gives you a simple yet educational tour into the art and technique behind spinning.  This book is a must have for your instructional library.

“Color Sense”  by Susan Levin

Color Sense

Author and co-inventor of the Rainbow Pick, Point and Match Color Selector has compiled a resource that gives you a “clear and concise introduction to color theory”. Color Sense will help you to sort and decide with relative ease any  color work choices that you could possibly have in any craft you choose. If you love color or just want to know what works and what doesn’t you’ll relish this guide.

“Knitting In The Sun” by Kristi Porter

Knitting in the Sun

The patterns in Kristi’s book are such a great compilation of knits that are light and chic.  The designs are eclectic in shape, but showcase a choice for a variety of tastes. The sizing is broad and knitting levels range from easy to advanced.  It gives you a opportunity to try the lighter side of knitting while keeping it interesting.  I find that heavier knits can be a bit much even in the winter when you work in an office.  Lighter knitting isn’t just for the summer, give it a try.

“aMiGURUMi TWO!” by aNa PauLa RiMOLi

Amigurumi Two!

If the title doesn’t make you stop in your tracks, tilt your head and murmur, huh? Then the little critters on the cover of the second edition of aMiGURUMi will make you smile and say, OOOhhhh. How cute!!  aMiGURUMi, in Japanese, lightly translated means, “knitted stuffed toy” but in this book, all the projects are crocheted.  If you have ever had a desire to learn crochet, this will put you over the top. The patterns are clear and easy to follow, and what a blast to have these sweet little creations hanging about or in the hands of the little ones you love.  Great fun.

“Knitted Gifts” by Ann Budd

Knitted Gifts Irresistible Projects to Make & Give

It’s never too early to start knocking some gift knitting off of your list.  Ann Budd’s new book is full of elegant and fun designs that you’ll be able to find a little something for everyone on your list… even the cat. Take a little advice and start early so the gift giving season doesn’t sneak up on you and you’ll have beautifully handknit gifts to bestow when the flakes are flying again.

“The Knitter’s Book Of Wool” by Clara Parkes  Item # 59170410

**Coming October 2009**

Once again Clara will teach us all about this amazing fiber we love.  She gives us a complete and  knowledgeable read on the history and wonderment of wool.  Reserve your copy now and come October you’ll dog ear a weekend to just sink into the prose of Ms Parkes… always a treat.

Products featured in this post:

Spin Control

Color Sense

Knitting in the Sun

Amigurumi Two!

Knitted Gifts Irresistible Projects to Make & Give

Schacht Cherry Niddy Noddy Schacht Maple Niddy Noddy The long awaited Schacht niddy noddy has arrived.  It’s available in cherry or maple and is a skein winding wonder.  It adjusts to two sizes: 2 yards and 1 1/2 yards.  It folds flat for easy storage, has a amazing hand grip for comfort and ease when skeining.  This beautiful yet functional tool is a must have for anyone who has been yearning for that perfect tool.  Check it out.

Also, any of you that had seen the contest Schacht was sponsoring, “I Made It On My Schacht” might want to get moving on your projects.  The deadline for email submissions or mail submissions is September 1st, 2009.  Check out Schacht’s website for any details you may have missed the first time around.

Products featured in this post:

Schacht Cherry Niddy Noddy

Schacht Maple Niddy Noddy

The Knit Kit - Black & Ivory Make sure to add this great Knit Kit to your summer bag.  It’s got everything you need to measure, cut and count all in one.  Check out the newest color in black.

Products featured in this post:

The Knit Kit - Black & Ivory

Peru by Katia

This amazing, washable, bulky yarn is  40% Wool, 40% Acrylic and 20% Alpaca. There are 116 yds per skein in 100g balls and knits to 3.5 sts to the inch on size 10 needles. I think we’re getting close to perfect here… 23 new colors. Can’t wait to try it! Already in stock!!

Azapa by Araucania

This gorgeous bulky yarn is 45% Merino Wool, 30% Alpaca, 15% Silk, 10% Donegal, 100g balls with yardage of 148 per skein! 3.5 sts to the inch on size 10 needles.  We’ll be housing 12 new colors. Almost ready!! (8 of the 12 colors are in…)

FEZ by Debbie Bliss

Fez is a medium weight, exotic, Merino &  Camel yarn that is 85% extra fine merino wool, 15% camel; each skein is 110 yards, 50 grams and knits to 4.5 stitches per inch on size US 8 knitting needles. 16 new colors.

Iro by Noro

Bringing back a bulky favorite in 6 new colors, this  75% Wool, 25% Silk yarn will be your next new favorite. 132 yds per skein, Stitches 3  to the inch, on size US 11 needles, put up in 100g balls. This will be a perfect yarn for the Sally Melville Einstein Coat in book 1 of “The Knitting Experience”.

Vintage by Noro

This is a medium weight, Wool Silk Blend Yarn. Each skein is 110 yards, 50 grams;  64% wool, 24% silk, 12% angora; 4 stitches to 1 inch using US 9 knitting needles.Garment Care: Hand Wash, Dry Flat.  6 new colors.

Micro Clip Light

Here’s a great little addition to your summer project bag!  This little LED light has some serious power for a tiny rig.  It has a directional light that will be a must have for the summer evenings and camping trips. Get a few and use them for hard to see crafting projects as well as any other assortment of lighting needs.

Double Point Work In Progress Tubes

Any sock knitter that uses double point needles and doesn’t have a set of these has absolutely no idea what they are missing! The peace of mind that you have in knowing that your socks can be on the needles and in your bag without the loss of any stitches in any direction what so ever is well worth the $6.50 a pair that you spend on these perfect point protectors. Pick up a couple sets to go along with your light work this season.

Where To Put It All…

As I was trying to select a few choice bags to share with you, I discovered the array of our selection in all shapes and sizes, colors and styles. Which led me to ask the question… What kind of bag are you??? I was speaking to myself of course, but it made for a fun idea. Your project bag is an extension of you when you are out and about this summer, so give a little thought about what kind of bag you might “be”? Valise? Satchel? Backpack? Shoulder Bag? Carry All? Or possibly a Reticule or Minaudiere?  I personally am a “Carry All”  (here is our bags page). I am forever lugging various bags with a variety of items in them and having a large, do it all bag is just my style.  So if I were to choose for myself  or a possible gift idea from the dear ones in my life I would go for the Nantucket Diddy Bagg for the “do it all” wet and dry tote that has amazing pockets everywhere and the option of hands free lugging-always a good thing on the go! A close second would be the Zip Tote Bag and all it’s lovely matching needle and accessory cases .  So give it a little thought and let us know how we can pair you up and get  you on your way for the warmest months ahead.

“Fiber Gatherings” by Joanne Seiff

This book is a collection of history, hometown feel, fiber connections and celebrations all rolled into one book.  It’s a wonderful visit through the seasons and the festivals that happen annually throughout our country.  It won’t disappoint.

“Knitting New Mittens & Gloves” by Robin Melanson

If you are tired of the same old mittens time after time and have exhausted the fingerless types, this book will re-inspire you to new heights in your mitten/gloves knitting.  There are 28 modern designs that will have you trying all kinds of different yarns and techniques. Great spring and summer knitting.

“simpleSTYLE” by Ann Budd

This has definitely been one of those books people have been waiting for and now I can see why. There are great new designs and fun, simple patterns to get you moving a few steps closer to being an intermediate knitter or for those that just want something SIMPLE.

“Needle Felted Figures” by Bodil Nederby

If you’ve wanted to try needle felting and you weren’t sure where to start this book will be a fun addition to your crafting library.  Nederby takes you through a few easy steps to create the greatest small figures that would make a perfect fun summer project for young and old.

“Japanese Inspired Knits” A Marianne Isager Collection

Any fans of Marianne Isager will be awaiting this book to see what she’s up to now.  If you haven’t experienced her designs and are intrigued by color work and creative shaping, you will devour her ideas and concepts immediately. Marianne’s previous books were “Knitting Out of Africa” and “Classic Knits”.  Check out her inspired designs with a distinctive Japanese influence that will have you running to your LYS (local yarn store) for materials.  Have fun!

“Sock Innovation” by Cookie A

All the sock knitters out there have anxiously awaited this new book!  From all the talk and reviews, Cookie’s book will instruct you in how to resize and modify your patterns, read, refine and alter charts. Design well-fitting socks with lace, geometric shapes, unique cables and so much more… This book will be a hit.

“Mother-Daughter Knits” by Sally Melville & Caddy Melville Ledbetter

If your mother or another mother-like soul taught you to knit or in turn you revitalized her dormant stash with your new found love of knitting, this book will take you to that mother-daughter place that can only be experienced with a cherished few.  Sally Melville and her only daughter join in to create a knitting book full of modern and classic design that compliment a variety of shapes and sizes, as well as generations.  Take this book with a basket of yarn to the “mother”