The Naked Sheep Bleat

Bradley's Art! I love it!

2011-12-28T11:03:00.001-08:00

Taking a moment today to brag on Brad, our VP of Everything here at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop! Check out some of his beautiful artwork...

Riley Boy

St Helens

Just One Day

Frog Song

Emma

Arb hits the Banfield

More to come!

Dreaming of Selfish Knitting Month...

2011-12-17T14:04:00.000-08:00

I'm at the shop today, happily knitting on Brad, Cory and Nicholas' Christmas Gifts; and at the same time (don't you love that sentence, knitters?) I'm dreaming of Selfish Knitting Month. I have all sorts of projects in the queue for January...for ME!!!

Stay tuned for details on how The Naked Sheep Knit Shop is planning on celebrating this month of Knitting For Me (and You, too; of course)!

Here's a sneak peek of one of the projects on my list. Stay tuned for more info on Selfish Knitting Month!

The Most Delicious Cranberries!

2011-11-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

This recipe comes from our good friend, Garland. A must-make during the holidays!

12 oz package of fresh cranberries

2 TBSP orange juice concentrate

1 cup sugar

Zest of an orange

Combine ingredients, cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

Cool, and then add 1/4-1/2 cup Grand Marnier. Nummy!

Join us for our Holiday Party at The Naked Sheep on Thursday, December 22; and you'll get to taste it!

The Best Pulled Pork Ever!!!

2011-10-26T12:28:00.001-07:00

I made one of my favorite dinners this week...Pulled Pork Sandwiches with homemade Coleslaw. A friend first made this Pulled Pork recipe for game night. Our theme was Crock*Pot*Luck. Everything (including dessert) had to be made in the crockpot. It was fun!

Anyway, that's where I first discovered this delicious, sweet and spicy, recipe for Bourbon-Mango Pulled Pork. I love Fall for many reasons; one of them is I use my crockpot a lot more! So nice to throw all the ingredients together in the morning, and magically come home to a delicious meal. And it makes the house smell so nummy! And it gives me more time to knit ;-)

Also, I have a great recipe for a spicy coleslaw that goes wonderfully with the pulled pork. Stop by The Naked Sheep Knit Shop and I'll share the recipe with you!

Bryn Mawr Skirt Knit-A-Long

2011-10-12T16:11:00.000-07:00

Our current Knit-A-Long project is The Bryn Mawr Skirt from the Fall 2011 Interweave Knits. Such a darling skirt, and so much fun to knit!

Most of us are using Cascade 128, but there are many options available. Come see me at the shop, and I'll show you just how nice this skirt is. I'm knitting mine using 128 Superwash in a lovely shade of Blue. I'm thinking that Riley will definitely need a matching sweater!

We meet every Saturday from 1-4pm through October. Hope you can join us!

Win a Bag of Yarn!!!

2011-09-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

Stop by The Naked Sheep Knit Shop this Thursday through Sunday (September 29-October 2) for your chance to WIN a whole bag of Rialto DK or Rialto Aran ...your choice of any color we have in stock! These are Brand New yarns for us from Debbie Bliss, and they are lovely!

While you're in the shop, check out all the other wonderful new yarns we've received this fall! See you soon!

Late Summer and Fall Knit-A-Longs at The Naked Sheep

2011-08-30T13:58:00.001-07:00

Our Late Summer Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop is the Leaflet Cardigan. This darling pattern is available in the First Fall 2011 Knitty; which has many other lovely designs. All FREE!

Join us on Saturday afternoons from 1-4pm as we Knit-A-Long this great cardigan. It's fun to see all the different yarns people have chosen for this project. All working up so differently, and yet all so beautiful!

We'll be making our final decision on the Fall Knit-A-Long project soon. If you have any ideas or suggestions, let us know.

We are strongly considering the Bryn Mawr Skirt from the Fall 2011 Interweave KNITS magazine. This skirt uses Cascade 128, and I've already chosen my colorway...just in case!

The Fall Knit-A-Long will start on Saturday afternoon, September 17. Hope to see you Saturday!

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

2011-06-26T14:01:00.001-07:00

A Great Big THANK YOU to all our vendors who donated doorprizes for our Big 6th Annual Anniversary SALE and CELEBRATION! We have a TON of wonderful things to give away thanks to their generosity!

Aslan Trends

Bar-Maids

Bryson Distributing

Cascade Yarns

Elsebeth Lavold (Euro Yarns)

Knit Purl Sew What?!

Lantern Moon

Universal Yarn

WoolPets

And Super Duper Big THANK YOUs to our Neighboring Businesses who donated the most excellent doorprizes!

Atomic Pizza

Beaterville

Blooming Moon Wellness Spa

Di Prima Dolci Italian Bakery

Greeley Avenue Bar and Grill

You are all AWESOME!!! The Naked Sheep Knit Shop LOVES YA!!!

What's in your knitting bag?

2011-06-03T13:09:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining, and I'm in the mood to get my knitting projects organized; starting with the pink Naked Sheep Tote that I have with me at the shop today.

Alright...let's see what's in here...

Palatine Stole. A delightful (and free) pattern from Stitch Jones that I'm making with this amazing Superwash Merino Wool, Greenland, by Cascade Yarns.

A baby blanket I'm designing for a book I'm working on. This has been a project in the works for quite awhile, and I'm committed to completing it (the book) by the end of summer!

And my Swir l Skirt; our current Knit-A-Long project at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. This is a super fun project! Join us on Saturday afternoons at the shop as we knit it up together! I'm using Poems and Pima Silk for this project.

Well, that's all the projects in this knitting bag. It's all organized, and all the projects are well on their way to being finished.

Tomorrow, I'll tackle another bag. Until then...Happy Knitting and Enjoy Your Organizing!

June Educator Special!

2011-06-01T14:23:00.000-07:00

During the month of June, the businesses at Overlook Corner are teaming up to offer special discounts to Educators!

Get a 10% discount on non-food purchases at NoPo Paws, the newest addition to our building! Find the perfect toy or treat for your special friend.

Get a 10% discount on non-alcohol sales prior to 5pm at Atomic Pizza.

And coming soon to Atomic Pizza...Ice Cream!!!

Get a 10% discount on all food, drink and retail purchases at Palace of Industry. This fun little space is part watering hole and part vintage treasure trove...check it out!

And last, but certainly not least...Get a 10% discount on all purchases (except gift certificates and classes) at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. We'll keep you busy summer!

Yay Teachers!!! Just show your ID Badge to be eligible for all these great discounts :)

Kenton Street Fair 2011

2011-05-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

Come to the Kenton Street Fair 2011 this Sunday, May 22, from 10-7pm. The Naked Sheep Knit Shop will be there! Bring a lawn chair, your knitting and grab some snacks from the food vendors and sit and knit a bit with me!

The fair will be on North Denver Ave between North Schofield and North Willis. Enjoy two stages of live music, food, children's activities, local vendors and much more!!! We'll be located in front of Insulated Windows.

We'll be giving away discount coupons, stickers and temporary tattoos; and we'll be having a drawing at the end of the day for "Any Class with Cheri"...a $55 value!

Hope to see you there!!!

Senior Texting Codes

2011-05-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

Got an e-mail recently containing some very important information that I wanted to share with you!

Now that texting is more popular than talking, this is some important information. The kids have all their little codes...like BFF, WTF, LOL, etc. So here are some codes for seniors that we should all start learning:

Senior Texting Codes (STC)

ATD - At the Doctor's
BFF - Best Friend's Funeral
BTW - Bring the Wheelchair
BYOT - Bring Your Own Teeth
CBM - Covered by Medicare
CUATSC - See You at the Senior Center
DWI - Driving While Incontinent
FWBB - Friend with Beta Blockers
FWIW - Forgot Where I Was
FYI - Found Your Insulin
GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA - Got Heartburn Again
HGBM - Had Good Bowel Movement
IMHO - Is My Hearing-Aid On?
LMDO - Laughing My Dentures Out
LOL - Living on Lipitor
OMMR - On My Massage Recliner
OMSG - Oh My! Sorry, Gas
ROFL...CGU - Rolling on the Floor Laughing...Can't get Up!
TTYL - Talk to You Louder
WAITT - Who Am I Talking To?
WTFA - Wet the Furniture Again
WTP - Where's the Prunes
WWNO - Walker Wheels Need Oil
GGLKI - Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in!

Hope I made you smile :)

Spring Knitting

2011-05-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

Unlike some, I am a huge fan of cotton yarns. I especially like blends such as Sierra (80% Cotton/20% Wool), Pima Tencel (50% Peruvian Pima Cotton/50% Tencel) and Pima Silk (85% Peruvian Pima Cotton/15% Silk). I've made garments with all of these Cascade Yarns; and I enjoy both knitting with them and wearing them. They wear well, and they're easy to take care of.

I'm currently working on a fun, springy sweater from Dolce Handknits called Capri. I'm using Pima Tencel in this happy shade of blue that Cascade calls Sapphire (#9364). I'm just finishing up the back. Dolce Handknits are well written patterns, and I can order any of these designs for you. Just let me know.

We have lots of nice springtime yarns at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. Stop by and get inspired to knit or crochet yourself a lightweight garment for Portland's cooler spring evenings. Hope to see you soon!

Saroyan

2011-04-12T11:14:00.001-07:00

I've had several customers come to The Naked Sheep lately to buy yarn for the Saroyan. I fell in love the first time I saw it! This lovely shawl/scarf uses worsted weight yarn; and would make an excellent first lace project.

I'm using Jewel from Cascade Yarns. It's a fun to knit pattern; I'm especially enjoying the leaf edging detail.

Stop by and see it in person; it's really stunning.

Spring Knit-A-Long

2011-04-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

We've chosen a smaller project for our Spring Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. But don't let the size fool you. These mitts are full of fun and interesting techniques! Check out A Kaleidoscope of Color: Latvian Fingerless Mitts, featured in Interweave's Knitting Traditions Magazine. Let's meet on Saturday afternoons this month, and work through these lovely mitts together. We'll gather from about 1-4pm. Please feel free to bring something to drink and/or snack on.

And if you buy the Knitting Traditions Magazine and your yarn at The Naked Sheep, you'll get the magazine for 50% OFF! I'm going to use the Cascade 220 Sport. We have a bunch of great colors, with more new colors coming soon! And at just $3.75 a skein, it's a very economical project.

Hope to see you!

Yay for Supportland!

2011-03-16T13:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, That's Big Paul Knitting!

Just in case you haven't heard...We are now a part of Supportland! One single rewards card that's good at over 85 locally-owned Portland businesses; and more are joining the Supportland network all the time! It's a great way to support local businesses, while earning points toward terrific rewards.

In addition to being a rewards/punch card for many of these local businesses, it also offers fantastic incentives for buying local.

The Supportland Card will take the place of our Pink Naked Sheep Rewards Card. But never fear! Your existing rewards card is transferable to the new Supportland Card. Stop by The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, get your Supportland card and start earning your rewards! It's Fun, Easy and Free!

Knitting/Crocheting for Charity in 2011

2011-03-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been thinking about what kind of knitting I'd like to do for charity this year. In the past, we've collected items at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop for various groups such as Project Linus, Preemie Hats for Girls Scouts, Hats and Scarves for the Homeless, Helmet Liners for Soldiers and so on. You were extremely generous in all of these endeavors...Thanks!

I would love your ideas on different groups we can knit or crochet for this year. Please leave a comment here and let me know what you're thinking!

The One-Row Buttonhole

2011-02-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

This is such an excellent buttonhole! It allows you to make the exact size opening you need to accommodate your buttons. When worked in the body of regular knitting, it will be horizontal. When worked in a band that has been picked up, it will be vertical.

To determine the size of your buttonhole, lay your button on the knitted fabric and count the number of stitches it lays across. If the button you’re using is 4 stitches wide, make a 3-stitch buttonhole. If your button is 5 stitches wide, make a 4-stitch buttonhole, etc.

Here are the instructions. Give it a try!

Work desired number of stitches before buttonhole.
With yarn in back, slip one stitch as if to knit through the back loop.
Slip another stitch as if to knit through the back loop. Pass the previous stitch over this one. (One stitch is bound-off.) Repeat Step 3 until the desired number of stitches has been bound-off for the buttonhole.
Slip the last stitch on the right needle to the left needle. Turn work. Move yarn to the back of work.
Using Cable Cast-On Method, cast-on the number of stitches bound off, plus one. Before placing the last cast on loop on the left needle, bring the yarn to the front of the work between the needles. Now put the last stitch on the left needle. Turn work.
Slip the first stitch on the right needle to the left needle. Knit 2 together firmly. (This counts as the first stitch worked between buttonholes.)

Remember, buttonholes are on the right side for women and the left side for men. I usually begin my buttonholes 2-3 stitches into the band and allow for another 2-3 stitches after the last buttonhole.

It's Time to Get Fit!

2011-02-16T12:50:00.000-08:00

You may know that I joined a gym last April, Northwest Women's Fitness Club. I've been enjoying all the great classes they have to offer...Zumba, Nia, Step 'n Strength, Women on Weights, Yoga and Flirty Girl Fitness...just to name a few! I've also been meeting with a Personal Trainer, Alissa, who is fantastic! She's helping me to make sense of all the equipment in the weight room.

Well...I twisted my ankle about 2 weeks ago, and had to take a break from most of these activities. I was doing the treadmill, and some weights; but for the most part was pretty inactive.

Today I was finally able to get back to my classes. I went to Step 'n Strength with Laurie this morning, followed by Women on Weights. I cannot tell you how happy I was, and how GOOD I felt afterward.

I am now addicted to how movement makes me feel. During the past 2 weeks when my activities were limited, I started feeling sluggish and lethargic; even fuzzy in the brain. I made poor food choices, as well. I'm so excited to be back on track!

Thanks for helping to keep me accountable! I've been so inspired by several friends here at The Naked Sheep who've lost significant amounts of weight. I've lost a total of 18 pounds so far, and am positive that I'll reach my final goal!

If you're interested in visiting the gym with me, just let me know. You can get a free pass to participate in classes and use all the workout equipment for a week. It's such an awesome place!

Ruffles

2011-02-11T14:35:00.000-08:00

We stayed out at Skamania Lodge last month with some friends and had a really great time! Such a fun place to stay! We took a little trip into Stevenson for some coffee and found a fun little garden shop. They had some really cute scarves, in addition to lots of beautiful flowers. The scarves were sewn, not knit; with ruffles up and down both sides. So cute, but I decided they
would be even better if they were knit!

So I decided to create a pattern, and here it is! I used 3 skeins of Cascade Soft Spun (lots of beautiful colors available at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!) and size 9 needles. You'll need a long circular needle when you do the ruffles.

Cast on 18 stitches. Work in garter stitch (knitting every row) until you have 199 ridges (or have knit 398 rows). Note: I slipped the first stitch of every row as if to purl with the yarn in front. This created slipped stitches along the edge that made it super easy to pick up and knit for the ruffles.

Pick up and knit 199 stitches along one side of scarf.

Row 1 (WS): Knit 1, *purl 1, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2 (RS): Knit 1, *make 1 right, knit 1, make 1 left, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 3 (WS): Knit 1, *purl 3, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 4 (RS): Knit 1, *make 1 right, knit 3, make 1 left, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 5 (WS): Knit 1, *purl 5, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 6 (RS): Knit.
Row 7 (WS): Knit 1, *purl 5, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.
Row 8 (RS): Knit.
Row 9 (WS): Knit 1, *purl 5, knit 1; repeat from * to end of row.

Bind-off all stitches knitwise. Repeat on other side!

Hope you enjoy making and wearing this fun scarf as much as I enjoyed designing and knitting it!

All Buttoned Up!

2011-01-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

I wanted to make a hat that was a little different using some of our soft and colorful chunky yarns. All Buttoned Up is a fun approach to knitting a hat; and it knits up quickly!

I used Los Andes from Aslan Trends as the main color and 128 Superwash from Cascade Yarns as the contrast color. We have 7 new colors of the Los Andes coming soon! And remember, I can order ANY color of this yarn, as well as the 128 Superwash for you. Just give me a call at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop.
(503) 283-2004

The body of the hat was knit on size 11 and the trim was knit on size 10. The gauge for the body of the hat should be 2.5 stitches to the inch, so adjust your needles accordingly depending on your actual gauge. Yes, I do expect you to knit a swatch!

Using CC and size 10 needles, cast on 54 stitches.

Row 1: Knit 1, purl 1; repeat to end.
Row 2: Purl 1, knit 1; repeat to end.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 three more times.

Change to MC and size 11 needles and work the following rows:

Row 1: Knit to last 6 stitches; k1, p1, k1, p1, k1, p1.
Row 2: P1, k1, p1, k1, p1, k1; purl to end.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 until piece measures 5.25" from cast on.

Begin decrease rows:
Row 1: Knit 4, k2tog; repeat to last 6 stitches; k1, p1, k1, p1, k2tog.
Row 2: K1, p1, k1, p1, k1; purl to end.
Row 3: Knit 3, k2tog; repeat to last 5 stitches; k1, p1, k1, p2tog.
Row 4: P1, k1, p1, k1; purl to end.
Row 5: Knit 2, k2tog; repeat to last 4 stitches; k1, p1, k2tog.
Row 6: K1, p1, k1; purl to end.
Row 7: K1, k2tog; repeat to last 3 stitches; k1, p2tog.
Row 8: P1, k1; purl to end.
Row 9: K2tog; repeat to end.
Row 10: P2tog; repeat to end.
Cut yarn, thread through tapestry needle. Run tapestry needle through the remaining stitches, pull and weave in end.

Using CC and smaller needle, pick and knit 21 stitches along stockinette edge.

Row 1: K1, p1; repeat to last stitch, k1.
Repeat row 1 two more times.

Next row: K1, p1, yo, p2tog, k1, p1, k1, yo, k2tog, p1, k1, p1, yo, p2tog, k1, p1, k1, yo, k2tog, p1, k1.
Repeat row 1 three more times. Bind off in pattern. Sew buttons on seed stitch border opposite the buttonholes.

Basic Dish Cloth Pattern

2010-12-11T14:41:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick gift idea. It can be a dish cloth or a face cloth, depending on the yarn you use. Combine it with a kitchen gadget or some nummy face soap for a fun hostess gift or stocking stuffer. I used one skein of Luna and size 6 needles to make this dishcloth. My gauge was 4 stitches to the inch; but I knit kinda loose, so adjust your needles accordingly.

Cast on 4 stitches.

First Half
Row 1: Knit.
Row 2: Knit 2 stitches, yarn over, knit to end of row.

Repeat Row 2 until there are 50 stitches on the needles, or until dish cloth is half of desired length.

Second Half
Row 1: Knit 1, knit 2 together, yarn over, knit 2 together, knit to end of row.

Repeat Row 1 until 7 stitches remain.

Finishing
Row 1: Knit 2, slip 1, knit 2 together, pass slipped stitch over the 2 stitches you knit together, knit 2.
Row 2: Knit 2, yarn over, knit 2 together, knit 1.
Row 3: Knit 2 together, knit 1, knit 2 together.

Bind-off remaining 3 stitches. OR...Make a 3-inch I-Cord using these 3 stitches and sew it down to create a loop to hang the dish cloth. Weave in all loose ends.

Tip of the Month: Felting

2010-12-03T15:33:00.000-08:00

Felting is still such a popular technique among knitters. Whether it's a felted bag or hat you are making for a gift, or felted slippers you're keeping for yourself, here are some tips to make your felting experience more successful!

Place finished item in a zippered pillowcase. If you don't, the fibers that come off during felting can ruin your washing machine. Set your machine to the smallest load, the hottest wash and the longest agitation possible. STAY CLOSE BY and check your item frequently, about every 5 minutes. When checking the item, completely remove it from the zippered pillowcase. This is a good time to aid in the shaping and to make sure the item hasn't turned inside out. Place the item back in the zippered pillowcase and resume agitation.

If necessary, repeat the agitation process (without rinsing and spinning), until item is the desired size. Once you're happy with the size, spin the item briefly (always in the pillowcase) to remove excess water. DO NOT WALK AWAY. Stay close so that as soon as the item is done spinning, you can remove it and shape as desired. Let air dry.

Hint: I like to shape my items by stuffing them with plastic grocery bags. This allows me to achieve the exact shape that I want. Once the stocking is mostly dry on the outside, remove the plastic bags and allow to dry inside.

Another Hint: It's okay to felt more that one item at a time, but I recommend putting each one in its own zippered pillowcase. Adjust your water level accordingly.

Most of all...Have Fun! Call the shop (503) 283-2004; or come by if you have any questions! The felted slipper pictured above was embellished by Craig, and you can take his Needle Felting 101 Class if you want to learn more about this!

Feather and Fan Circle Wrap

2010-11-19T10:47:00.000-08:00

Here's another idea for your holiday gift knitting; or maybe a gift for yourself to keep warm and cozy this season. This loose fitting Circle Wrap will keep shoulders and upper body comfy while still allowing you to move your arms (and knit, maybe?).

I used Eco Wool + from Cascade Yarns in this pretty berry color, and size 13 circular needles. It's worked from the bottom up.

12 stitches = 4.5 inches in Feather and Fan Pattern and 12 stitches = 4 inches in garter stitch

Cast on 144 stitches. Place marker and join in the round. Purl one round.

Next Round: Knit.
Next Round: Purl.
Repeat last 2 rounds one more time.

Begin Feather and Fan Pattern:
Round 1: Knit.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: (K2tog) 2x's; (yo, k1) 4x's; *(k2tog) 4x's; (yo, k1) 4x's; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, (k2tog) 2x's.
Round 4: Purl.
Repeat 11 more times, or about 2 inches less than desired length.

Next Round: Knit 10, k2tog; repeat to end of round.
Next Round: Purl.
Next Round: Knit 9, k2tog; repeat to end of round.
Next Round: Purl.
Next Round: Knit 8, k2tog; repeat to end of round.
Next Round: Purl.
Next Round: Knit 7, k2tog; repeat to end of round.
Next Round: Purl.
Next Round: Knit 6, k2tog; repeat to end of round.
Next Round: Purl.

Bind off all stitches knitwise.

To create a smaller size, cast on fewer stitches in multiples of 12. Work one less decrease round for every group of 12 stitches you take off. Or keep the decreases the same for a smaller neck. Call (503) 283-2004 or come into The Shop if you need help or have questions!

Cozy Circle Scarf

2010-11-15T14:04:00.000-08:00

Lately I've had quite a few customers mention that they've seen these really long cowls, or Circle Scarves, in stores; so I thought I'd create a pattern for you. This would make a great holiday gift; and depending on the yarn you choose, it can knit up really quick!

Here's a pattern for one using a chunky yarn (3-3.5 stitches to the inch) and size 11 needles. I used 3 skeins of Jewel from Cascade Yarns. Since I used bigger needles than the yarn normally calls for, I got a gauge of 2.5 stitches to the inch. You can adjust the number of stitches you cast on, depending on the actual gauge you're getting.

The finished scarf is 60 inches in circumference, and looks really great wrapped twice around.

Using long-tail cast on, cast on 144 stitches and join in the round.

Next Round: Purl.

Next Round: Knit.

Next Round: Purl.
Repeat last 2 rounds 2 more times.

Next Round: Knit 1, yarn over; repeat to end of round.

Next Round: Purl, dropping yarn overs as you come to them.

Next Round: Knit.

Next Round: Purl.

Repeat the last 2 rounds 2 more times.

Repeat the last 8 rounds 3 more times. Bind off knitwise. Weave in your ends, and wear your stylish Cozy Circle Scarf proudly!

I'm going to play around with some other stitch patterns, as well as some other wraps/scarves that are popular in the stores right now. Stay tuned!

Feels Great to be Finishing!

2010-11-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

I have been in a finishing mode lately, and it's been so much fun! Since I have a habit of starting new projects, it always feels good to complete some.

Here's one of my favorite finished things; the Ashfield Cardigan from the book, New England Knits. A lovely book, by the way. I'm currently working on two other projects from it!

I used Cascade 220 Superwash, and I love the way it washed and dried...in the drier! I'd be happy to order any color you'd like in this yarn. Just let me know!

Check out the rest of my finishing accomplishments in My Notebook on Ravelry. If you don't know about Ravelry or just haven't joined yet, you totally should! It's free, and it's a fun place to search for patterns and see what other people are up to.

What have you finished lately?

Fall Knit-A-Long Time!

2010-09-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hey all you Naked Knitters…we’ll be kicking off our Fall Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop on Saturday, September 11 from 1-4pm. Join us as we knit the Cloisonne Jacket from the Fall 2010 Interweave KNITS.

We'll meet every Saturday this fall, as we create this gorgeous jacket! I'm so excited! I'll be using Cascade 220 (in brown and pink, what else?!); how about you?

Come and choose your yarn this weekend during our Back-to-School Sale and get at least 15% OFF your yarn! Just tell us that you're buying yarn for the Knit-A-Long, and you'll get 15% OFF your needles and accessories, too!

See you soon!

Feather and Fan Baby Hat

2010-08-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

I knit up this cute little baby hat with just two skeins of Luna, one each of main color and contrast color. I used a size 7 16-inch circular needle and double pointed needles. Suggested gauge is 4.5 stitches/inch for a 16” hat. Here's the pattern…Enjoy!

Using main color, cast on 72 stitches. Join in the round; being careful not to twist.
Round 1: Purl.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: Purl.

***Change to contrast color and work the following 4 rounds (Feather and Fan Pattern):
Round 1: Knit.
Round 2: (K2tog) 2 times, (yo, k1) 4 times, *(k2tog) 4 times, (yo, k1) 4 times; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, (k2tog) 2 times.
Round 3: Purl.
Round 4: Knit.

Change back to main color and repeat the 4 rounds of Feather and Fan Pattern. Repeat from the *** one more time (8 more rounds).

Work in stockinette until hat measures 4 inches from the beginning.

Work decrease rounds as follows, changing to dpn's when necessary:
Round 1: *Knit 6, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: *Knit 5, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 4: Knit.
Round 5: *Knit 4, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 6: Knit.
Round 7: *Knit 3, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 8: Knit.
Round 9: *Knit 2, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 10: Knit.
Round 11: *Knit 1, k2tog: repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 12: *K2tog: repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 13: Repeat round 12 until 4 stitches remain.

With remaining 4 stitches, knit an I-cord that is about 1.5 to 2 inches long. Sew it down to the top of the hat to make a little loop. Weave in ends and you're done!

Design by Cheri Clark, The Knit Wit ©2010
www.thenakedsheepknitshop.com

Wool Caps for Soldiers

2010-07-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

I was recently approached by customer Barbara Jennings regarding an opportunity to participate in an effort to knit wool caps for soldiers. Since we have such generous and giving customers, I wanted to pass along this information to you so that you could have a chance to get involved!

Here's what Barbara had to say...

"We need knitters! We recently became aware of a need for 2700 100% wool caps for soldiers being deployed to Iraq in September. If you can make even one cap before the end of August, it would be a great help. Please read on to get the cap pattern and pictures and check out the videos of the Idaho organizer - Bea is a Rosie the Riverter from WWII and not detered by seemingly insurmountable odds. We want to help her reach her goal and get a knitted cap into each soldier's pack. A huge thank you to Cheri at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop for supporting this project!" -Barbara Jennings and Carla Harwood - Portland knitters.

The Naked Sheep is offering a 10% discount for all yarn purchased at the shop for this project. Just mention this project when you're checking out.

Clink on the links below for the pattern for these wool caps, as well as information on the woman organizing this effort.

Cap Pattern
Bea Mitchell

5th Anniversary Sale and Celebration Giveaways!!!

2010-07-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! We have TONS of great stuff to give away during our Big 5th Anniversary Sale and Celebration...I'm so excited! In addition to a fabulous sale, there will be daily giveaways and several drawings for larger prizes at the end of the weekend.

A Great Big Thank You to those who generously donated all these items!

We so appreciate the following awesome vendors: Bar-Maids, Bryson Distributing, Cascade Yarns, Elsebeth Lavold, Knit Sew Purl What?!, Lantern Moon, R&M Book Distributors, Stitch Jones, Universal Yarn and WoolPets.

And we LOVE our neighboring businesses and are very appreciative of their donations: Atomic Pizza, Beaterville, Blend, Breakside Brewery, DiPrima, Pause and Trixies Beauty Bar.

Finished!

2010-06-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

Finished my Multnomah Shawl! This was our Spring Knit-A-Long project at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. It was fun to knit, and really pretty easy. I just need to weave in a couple ends and then block it. I'm very happy with the yarn I used; Heritage and Heritage Paints from Cascade Yarns. It's soft and light and lovely! Watch for details on the Summer Knit-A-Long which will start Saturday, June 26!

I also finished Brad's Cosby Sweater, which is a huge accomplishment. I took a child's cardigan pattern that Brad liked, and turned it into a man-size pullover. There were several "hiccups" in the process; and the sweater was in "time-out" several times! I'm glad it's done. I'll get a pic of Brad wearing it soon. And I have enough yarn leftover to knit up a matching sweater for Riley! Yeah!

I've Only Just Begun

2010-06-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Here is the beginning of my Clementine Shawlette from Interweave Knits, Spring 2007. It's a super fun pattern to work on; and I love, love, love this yarn! I'm using Ultra Pima from Cascade Yarns. We have 13 deliciously shiny colorways in this 100% Pima Cotton. This sport weight yarn is machine wash cool and tumble dry low...how easy is that?

Check out the many lovely colors in this yarn. If I don't have the color you want at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, I would be very happy to special order it for you!

60 Quick Knits

2010-05-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new book 60 Quick Knits? It is so awesome! This book is full of smaller projects...mittens, gloves, hats and such; and the patterns are really great! All the patterns use the Cascade Yarns that we love so much.

You should stop by The Naked Sheep Knit Shop and check it out! Priced at only $17.95, it's a super great deal. That's only 30 cents a pattern! We also have a great selection of Cascade Yarns, so you can quickly knit up some fun things!

Podcast: Warm Weather Fibers

2010-05-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

Hey...Check out this Podcast: Warm Weather Fibers by my friends Natalie and Rachel. They came to The Naked Sheep Knit Shop to interview me! Does that mean I'm famous?!

I absolutely love the music that they put in between the different segments. These two are seriously fiber and craft obsessed, as their blog states! The podcast was educational and very fun to listen to!

Cool Wool Striped Baby Hat

2010-04-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

Have fun knitting up this sweet little hat for someone special. The yarn I used is wonderful; super soft and lovely to knit with! We've got all 12 bright and cheerful colors at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

Materials Needed:
*3 colors of Cool Wool (50% Cotton/50% Wool; 50 grams/109 yards); 1 skein each color
*Size 6 16-inch circular needle, or size necessary to achieve gauge
*Size 6 double pointed needles, or size necessary to achieve gauge
*Stitch marker

Gauge:
5 stitches = 1 inch

Abbreviations used:
K2tog = knit 2 together
K = knit
1x1 Ribbing = knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch; repeat to end of round.

(Assign each color you’ve chosen a letter (A, B and C) and use accordingly throughout the pattern, always changing color at the marker.)

Instructions:
Using circular needles and color A, cast on 80 stitches. Place marker and join into the round. Work in 1x1 ribbing for 1 inch.

Change to color B and knit for 1 inch. Change to color C and knit for 1 inch. Continue in stockinette stitch (knitting every round), changing colors every inch as established until hat measures 4 inches from cast on edge.

Beginning at the marker, shape crown as follows; changing to double pointed needles when necessary:

(Don’t forget to make your color changes!)
K6, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
Knit one round.
K5, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
Knit one round.
K4, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
Knit one round.
K3, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
Knit one round.
K2, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
Knit one round.
K1, k2tog, repeat to end of round.
K2tog, repeat to end of round.
K2tog, repeat to end of round.

Cut yarn and thread through tapestry needle. Run tapestry needle through stitches the same direction you would if you were knitting them. Drop tapestry needle through center and pull. Weave in all ends.

That's a lot of preemie hats!

2010-04-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Naked Sheep knitters,

The last hat has been collected and I just wanted to say thank you all so much for contributing to my Bronze Award project! I collected 323 hats total from The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. With the other two girls from my troop, we got a whopping 787 hats! This was a great experience for me because I was able to learn how to lead a group project. I will feel very proud when I hand the hats over to Medical Teams International. Thank you, again!

Abigail Hall -- Girl Scout troop 41640

Preemie Hat Update

2010-03-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

Abigail, from Girl Scout Troup 1640, stopped by the shop last Thursday for Knit Nite to give us an update on their Preemie Hat Project. So far they have collected 94 hats from The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, and I know that we can get it above 100 by the April 4 deadline!

Thanks to all who have participated! I will give you the final count early in April. Keep on knitting!

Scavenger Hunt

2010-03-03T14:09:00.001-08:00

Just 2 days until the Portland Yarn Crawl! Part of the festivities for the weekend will be a Scavenger Hunt. The theme of the Scavenger Hunt is “Hat’s off to Portland’s Knitting Designers.” As you visit each store, be on the lookout for a handknit hat with a numbered tag. The first two people to email phyllis@portlandyarncrawl.com with the name of the designer, store name and item number for all 16 shops will win kits from Blue Sky Alpacas. Good Luck!

I've designed a hat for The Naked Sheep Knit Shop using The Naked Sheep Colorway from StitchJones Dyepot Worsted and Venezia Worsted from Cascade Yarns.

See you this weekend!

The Mother Tree Project

2010-02-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

This is one of the coolest things I've ever seen! Check out Helen's blog and get caught up on the details of The Mother Tree Project. Helen is a North Portland resident and a Naked Sheep Customer. The Mother Tree is now on view in the lobby of The Portland Building, 1120 SW 5th Avenue, Portland, Oregon. Join her on-site to help crochet roots from 11:30am - 1:30pm each weekday starting Feb 16, 2010 and ending March 12, 2010.

Only 21 Days Until the Portland Yarn Crawl!

2010-02-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

We are counting down the days until the Portland Yarn Crawl! If you don't know about it, you can find out all the details on their website.

There will be a Scavenger Hunt and each store will have a huge basket of goodies to give away at the end of the weekend!

At The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, we will be giving away additional goodies all weekend. Join us on Saturday afternoon for a fun event with the gals from Bar-Maids. Their products are all natural, and the Lo-Lo Bars are the perfect moisture bars for knitters. We'll also be giving away an "I Deserve This" gift basket from Bar-Maids at the end of the weekend. You definitely want to enter your name to win this basket of luxury!

Can't wait to see you the first weekend in March! We'll keep regular business hours during The Yarn Crawl:

Friday 10-6

Saturday 10-4

Sunday 12-4

Help Girl Scouts, Help Preemies

2010-01-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

I was recently approached by Abigail, a 6th grade Girl Scout, asking if we’d like to partner with her troop to collect preemie hats. I told her that The Naked Sheep Knit Shop and it’s customers would be thrilled to help them out. Here’s a note from Abigial, explaining what they’re hoping to accomplish:

"We are members of Girl Scout troop 1640. We are in 6th grade and working on earning our bronze award. We are making preemie sized hats to send to Medical Teams International; but seeing as there are only a few of us, that would mean a lot of knitting and/or crocheting. That's why we're asking for your help. We appreciate any donations of knitted or crocheted hats. We will collect the hats monthly. The last pick-up will be April 4, 2010."

Let's help Abigail and her troop collect a record number of hats! Drop off the hats at The Naked Sheep, and we will make sure they get to Girl Scout Troup 1640. Here are a couple websites where you can find free preemie hat patterns.

p2designs
bevscountrycottage
ravelry

Portland Yarn Crawl

2010-01-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't heard, there is going to be a Portland Yarn Crawl the first weekend in March. We're very excited about it! The Naked Sheep Knit Shop will be participating in the festivities, along with just about every other shop in the greater Portland area. There will be prizes, a scavenger hunt and much more...more details to follow about the Yarn Crawl.

And congratulations are in order to our very own VP of Everything, Brad Clark; who designed the lovely logo that will be used on the Portland Yarn Crawl website (which will be live soon!). Good job, Brad! Way to capture the spirit of Portland!

Another Successful Inventory

2010-01-02T10:40:00.001-08:00

Inventory at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop was a success! We had 9 lovely counters and 1 inputer...me! The counting was finished in a record 5 hours, and we all enjoyed a delicious breakfast/lunch at Beaterville across the street.

Thanks to my wonderful counters...I couldn't have done it without you!

The shop looks so beautiful....stop by and check it out!

Lovely Pink Mermaid

2009-11-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

I'm currently knitting Lucia from Imagine Knit Designs. This is the photo from the pattern; I'll post a photo of mine when it's finished!

I'm using Mermaid from Universal Yarn in color #40601, a lovely shade of pink, of course! I am loving this yarn; it's a scrumptious blend of Pima Cotton-42%, Seacell-11%, Silk-12% and Super Wash Merino-35%. It's super nice to knit with.

I'll be teaching the class this winter for the Lucia sweater. Stop by the shop and check it out!

Donavan's Kayak Paddle Scarf

2009-10-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick and easy pattern that Naked Sheep customer, Donavan, whipped up with just one skein of Rustic from Casacde Yarns.

Pattern Stitches
Seed Stitch:
All Rows - (Knit 1, purl 1) repeat to the last stitch, knit 1.

5x5 Rib:
Row 1 - Knit 5, purl 5, knit 5, purl 5, knit 5.
Row 2 - Purl 5, knit 5, purl 5, knit 5, purl 5.
Repeat rows 1 and 2.

Using size 8 needles, cast on 25 stitches.

Work in seed stitch for about 14".

Work in 5x5 rib for about 14", or desired length.

Work in seed stitch for about 14".

Bind-off and weave in ends! Thanks Donavan!!!

Calling All Book Group Groupies!

2009-10-12T18:34:00.000-07:00

September’s book was The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. It’s an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul. It will cause readers to ponder the implications of being at war and all the emotions that come into play.

As taken from the Publisher's Review:
"It's just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. Set during World War II in Germany, Zusak's groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can't resist…books!! With the help of her accordion-playing foster-father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau. The narrator is Death himself, a companionable if sarcastic fellow, who travels the globe 'handing souls to the conveyor belt of eternity.' "

Everyone present at book group gave a great big Baaaaaaa!
(Remember, Baa = good/Bleat = not so good)

October’s book selection is The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. We’ll be meeting at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop on Friday, October 23rd from 6:30-8:30pm. Want to read ahead? November's book is The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and December's book is My Life in France by Julia Child.

I Love Knitting with Wire and Beads!

2009-10-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

I took the Beaded Bracelet Class with LaVon last Monday...so much fun!!! And look at the fun and sparkly bracelet I made...I love it! And I just love knitting with wire and beads!

We had a full class...8 chatty and enthusiastic students! I want to take another class with these same women; we had such a great time knitting, laughing, drinking wine and spilling beads on the floor. (Thanks for vacumming up our mess, Judy!)

I ended up buying all my supplies at Beads Forever on 35th and Hawthorne...what a great shop! I received excellent customer service there, after a not-so-great experience at a bead shop nearer to my neighborhood.

We'll definitely be offering this class again at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, and you should definitely sign up for it. Thanks, LaVon, for teaching me something new!

Cheri's Checkboard Scarf

2009-09-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

I knit this scarf using Datura Fiber Arts Superwash Merino Wool in this lovely pumpkin color. So soft and yummy!!! I used a size 7 needle and got about 4.5 stitches to the inch.

Cast on 36 stitches. Knit 6 rows.

Next row: Knit 9, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 9.
Next row: Knit 3, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 3.
Repeat last 2 rows 3 more times.

Next row: Knit 3, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 3.
Next row: Knit 9, purl 6, knit 6, purl 6, knit 9.
Repeat last 2 rows 3 more times.

Repeat the last 16 rows to desired length of scarf. Knit 6 rows. Bind off.

Ta-Da!

2009-09-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, LaVon had a new Learn to Knit class. To encourage her new students, she wrote on the top of the dry-erase board in the classroom:

You are the BOSS of your knitting!

Today is the second week for the Learn to Knit students. During the past week, several creative customers and employees here at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop added comments under Lavon's original sentence. Here is what her students will see on the board tonight:

You are the BOSS of your knitting!
You are the knit of your bossing!
You are the bliss of your knotting!
You are naughty and bossy!
I love all my knotty knitters!
Knitter’s love my naughty boss!

This makes me smile...

New Yarns!!!

2009-09-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Yippee!!! Our friendly UPS driver, Dave, just delievered 4 big ol' boxes from Universal Yarn! Let me tell you about the 3 new yarns in those boxes...

Mermaid is a lovely blend of pima cotton, seacell, silk and superwash merino that knits up at 4-5 stitches to the inch. We have all 8 gorgeous colors! I'm going to knit the Ti Amo Wing Shawl using the pink...stop by and check it out!

Classic Chunky Tweed is a machine washable blend of wool, viscose and acrylic that knits up at 3-3.75 stitches to the inch. We have all 9 rich and tweedy colors! This would make a nice winter sweater for Brad...

Classic Worsted Tweed is the same washable blend as the chunky, but it knits up at 4-5 stitches to the inch. It comes in the same great 9 colors, and will make a nice matching sweater for Riley!

Thanks Dave!

In remembrance of Gayle Nybakken

2009-09-02T12:58:00.001-07:00

Many of you knew Gayle Nybakken, who was a constant fixture here at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop for several years. Gayle came to us as a very new knitter, and her skills improved dramatically during her time spent here.

We loved Gayle's quick wit, her interesting stories (what a life she led!) and her honesty. At times we had to remind her that not everyone felt exactly as she did on every subject, but she was one who could take it just as well as she could dish it out!

Earlier this year, Gayle was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma; which was attacking her bones. In her words, her bones were turning to sponges. It was a sad day when she could no longer knit. Gayle's daughter, Lisa, said that her mom "loved going to the knit shop - it was her favorite thing to do".

When we found out about Gayle's cancer, we decided to knit up 9 x 9 squares to assemble into a lap blanket for her. We chose a merino wool and cashmere blend, and the result is the beautiful shawl she is wearing in the photo. Thanks to everyone who contributed. Her daughter Lisa said that the shawl never left her mom's shoulders!

Gayle died peacefully on Tuesday, September 1 at 3am. There will be a memorial service on Wednesday, September 16 around 6pm. Exact details to follow; which Lisa has asked me to share with everyone at the knit shop. She also mentioned that the shawl we made with love for Gayle has been a great comfort to her since her mom's passing.

Please feel free to post your thoughts, a funny story or whatever you'd like under comments. Let's share our memories of Gayle...

Simple Style

2009-08-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

One of the projects I'm currently knitting up for myself is the Offset Raglan Cardigan from Simple Style. First of all, this is a really great book! Ann Budd has done a fabulous job of compiling a group of very talented designers! There are 19 designs in all, and quite a few that I'm interested in making for myself.

Secondly, I am in love with the yarn that I'm using. It's Venezia Worsted from Cascade Yarns. This blend of merino wool and silk is so easy to knit with. The silk gives the yarn a really beautiful sheen and drape, and the merino wool is so soft and squishy! I'm using color #112, Pink Lady...are you surprised?!

We have both the book and the yarn at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. Stop by and check them out!

I'll post a picture soon...

Fall Knit-A-Long

2009-08-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

Hey all you Portland Knitters…we’ll be kicking off our Fall Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop on Saturday, September 12 from 12-3pm. Our theme for the fall is “gotta love those cables”; and here are the 3 choices…

Twist and Shout
Nubby Cardigan
The Cable Sampler Scarf

Purchase your yarn for the knit-a-long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop, and get 25% off the needles and accessories for your knit-a-long projects!

I've already started The Cable Sampler Scarf using Bambool in hot pink. It's lovely.

I'm going to start Twist and Shout on the 12th...just have to decide on the yarn...too many choices!

The Naked Sheep has a new sign!

2009-08-11T11:46:00.001-07:00

The Naked Sheep Knit Shop has a beautiful new sign! Stop by the shop and check it out!

Atomic Pizza got their new sign at the same time; and it looks great, too!

I think it's a good day for pizza and some knitting...see you soon!!!

Sock Summit is here!!!

2009-08-07T13:29:00.001-07:00

Wow...it's been fun building up to Sock Summit. Now that it's here, it's super fun just listening to all the buzz from my customers at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. People seem to be really enjoying the classes, as well as wandering around the marketplace.

We just received new sock yarn from Aslan Trends...Santa Fe...in 11 beautiful colorways. This merino wool and polyamide blend is machine washable, and super soft!

And JUST THIS MORNING, we received new kettle-dyed sock yarn from Datura Fiber Arts. 12 vibrant colors in superwash merino wool and 3 more subtle colors in a merino wool/silk blend. Oh my...this is some really lovely yarn! Thank you Bob and Meghan for sharing your incredible yarn dyeing talents with us!

My Summer Knitting

2009-07-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

Baby it’s “hot” outside, but don’t neglect the urge to knit! There are plenty of cool and lovely summer fibers and trendy patterns to choose from!

I’m currently working on the Diminishing Ribs Cardigan using Panda from Universal Yarn. I love the drape and sheen of this 100% bamboo yarn!

I’m also knitting Something Red by Knit and Tonic for our Saturday Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop using Cable Cotton from Elsebeth Lavold. I love this super soft cotton yarn!

And I just cast on stitches for the Cable Sampler Scarf I'll be teaching this fall using Bambool from Elsebeth Lavold. Guess which color I'm using in this super shiny, squishy bamboo and wool blend?

Pick up those sticks and create! What are YOU knitting?

Free Fruity Hat

2009-07-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

Knit this fruity little hat in this super soft cotton, Pima Clasico from Aslan Trends. Change the colors to make any kind of fruit you want!

Sizes (Finished Hat Circumference)
Baby, Toddler, Child (about 16, 17.5, 19 inches)

Gauge
5 stitches = 1 inch in stockinette stitch

Materials
2 skeins Pima Clasico (1 Main Color and 1 Contrast Color)
Size 7 16-inch Circular and Double-Pointed Needles (DPN’s)
Stitch Marker

Instructions
Using circular needles and main color, cast on 80 (88, 96) stitches. Place marker and join into the round, being careful that your stitches are not twisted.

Work in stockinette stitch (knitting every round) until hat measures 5 (6, 7) inches from the beginning, or desired length to crown.

Work color change rounds as follows:
Round 1: *Knit 7 main color (mc), knit 1 contrast color (cc); repeat from * to end of the round.
Round 2: Knit 1 cc, knit 5 mc, *knit 3 cc, knit 5 mc; repeat from * to the last 2 stitches, knit 2.
Round 3: Knit 2 cc, knit 3 mc, *knit 5 cc, knit 3 mc; repeat from * to the last 3 stitches, knit 3.
Round 4: Knit 3 cc, knit 1 mc, *knit 7 cc, knit 1 mc; repeat from * to the last 4 stitches, knit 4.
Round 5: Knit all stitches using cc.

Continuing with cc, work decrease rounds as follows, changing to DPN’s when necessary:
Round 1: (Knit 6, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 2: (Knit 5, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 3: (Knit 4, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 4: (Knit 3, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 5: (Knit 2, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 6: (Knit 1, knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 7: (Knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.
Round 8: (Knit 2 together) repeat to end of round.

Slip remaining stitches onto one double pointed needle. Knit a 3-4 inch I-cord. Tie a knot in the I-cord. Weave in ends. Put on hat and enjoy!

Stop by The Naked Sheep Knit Shop and see the hat in person!

The Night Ride 2009

2009-07-14T12:20:00.001-07:00

What an awesome ride we had last Saturday!!! Several of us from The Naked Sheep Knit Shop participated in The Night Ride. It all started at Union Station with costume judging. Then we traveled across the Broadway Bridge and up Interstate/Mississippi (this is where I caught up with our group)/Albina to Ainsworth and then along Willamette Blvd to the Peninsula Crossing Trail. There was entertainment all along the way, and lots of support and encouragement from the sidelines!

The first stop was at the beginning of the trail with Filmed by Bike movies and popcorn. Then we were off to the Columbia Slough Trail. This was the part of the ride that really freaked me out last year, but this year I was better prepared with more light (including one on my helmet) and my support team!

Jenn and Dan

Bunny and Craig

And Brad, of course!

Our second stop was a Disco Party and All-You-Can-Eat Candy at Schmeer and Vancouver. My favorite part at this stop were the girls with the glow-in-the-dark hoola hoops! Then up Vancouver and back to the train station for our final stop, All-You-Can-Eat Donuts!

Thanks everyone for a fun ride! And thanks for representing The Naked Sheep!

So many prizes, so little time...

2009-07-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

We have received so many fabulous and generous donations from our vendors and neighborhood businesses! We have over $1500 in prizes to give away during our big 4th Anniversary Sale and Celebration at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

Make sure you stop by to see us this Thursday, July 2 through Sunday, July 5. Besides all the goodies you'll have a chance to win, we are having a gigantic sale! You do not want to miss it! Come CELEBRATE with us! We made it 4 years!

A great big THANK YOU to our wonderful neighbors:

Atomic Pizza
Beaterville Cafe
DiPrima Dolci Italian Bakery
Pause Kitchen and Bar
The Hop & Vine
Trixies Beauty Bar

And also much thanks to our generous vendors:

Bryson Distributing
Cascade Yarns
Knit, Sew, Purl, What?
Lantern Moon
R&M West Coast Enterprises
Stitch Jones
Universal Yarn
WoolPets

And thanks to you, for your support of the sheep; and for stopping by this weekend to help us celebrate our big anniversary!

Happy 4th Anniversary!!!

2009-06-29T18:08:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th Anniversary to The Naked Sheep Knit Shop! It's been 4 fun and fabulous years, and we are ready to celebrate for 4 days!

EVERYTHING in the shop will be on sale; some things up to 75% off!

And we have TONS of stuff to giveaway! We'll be handing out incredible prizes everyday; and we'll have our big drawings at the end of the weekend.

Hope to see you this weekend!

Crock Pot Luck

2009-06-18T11:33:00.001-07:00

Join us for Knit Nite and our first Crock Pot Luck, tonight at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. We'll be knitting and eating and chatting from about 6-9pm. What fun!

Cute Little Cupcake Hat

2009-05-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Make this cute little hat for a special little someone...

Gauge
5.5 stitches = 1 inch

Materials
3 skeins Cotton Rich DK (brown, cream and red)
1 skein novelty yarn (if sprinkles are desired)
Size 6 16-inch circular needles and double pointed needle’s
Stitch marker
Clover 1” Pom-Pom Maker

Size
Newborn (about 14.5” finished head circumference)

Stitch Guide
Frosting Bobble = Using the knit-on cast-on, cast on 3 stitches. Immediately bind-off those same 3 stitches.
P2tog = Purl 2 together
2x2 ribbing = Knit 2, purl 2; repeat

Instructions
Knitting the Cupcake
Using brown yarn and circular needles, cast on 80 stitches. Place marker and join into the round, being careful that your stitches are not twisted. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.

Knitting the Frosting
Change to cream and knit one round.
Next Round: *Purl 3, make a frosting bobble*; repeat between the asterisks until the end of the round.

Add the novelty yarn here, if sprinkles are desired. Continue to work in
reverse stockinette (purling every round) until hat measures 3 inches from the beginning, or desired length to crown.

Work decrease rounds as follows, changing to DPN’s when necessary:
Round 1: Purl 6, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 2: Purl to the marker.
Round 3: Purl 5, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 4: Purl to the marker.
Round 5: Purl 4, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 6: Purl to the marker.
Round 7: Purl 3, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 8: Purl to the marker.
Round 9: Purl 2, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 10: Purl to the marker.
Round 11: Purl 1, p2tog; repeat to the marker.
Round 12: Purl to the marker.
Round 13: P2tog; repeat to the marker.

Cut yarn and thread onto a tapestry needle. Run the tapestry needle through the remaining stitches the same direction you would if you were knitting them. Pull tight and weave in ends.

Putting the Cherry on Top!
Using red yarn and Clover 1” Pom-Pom Maker, make a cherry for the top. When you attach the cherry, I suggest just tying it on with a bow on the inside, so you can remove it when you need to wash the hat.

Put on hat and enjoy!

Design by Cheri Clark, The Knit Wit ©2009

Summer Knit-A-Long at The Naked Sheep

2009-05-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

I’ve received lots of positive feedback regarding doing some knit-a-longs this summer. Although only a couple specific sweater suggestions have been given…

One idea I received is to have 3 different sweaters to choose from, but not limit them to a certain month. Knitter A might choose to knit just one of the designs, and take all summer to do it…no problem! Knitter B might choose to knit two of the designs we’ve chosen…no problem! And Knitter C (you know who you are!!!) might just knit all 3 choices and be itching to start on a fourth before the end of August…no problem!

Let’s keep it informal and fun and as non-competitive as possible (although a little healthy competition is good for you, right?!)

We'll gather at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop every Saturday afternoon in June, July and August (anytime between 12 and 3pm).

So here are the sweater suggestions…

Imagine from the Spring Issue of Knitty.

Something Red from Knit and Tonic

Owls by Kate Davies (This is a free pattern on Ravelry)

You’ll receive a 15% discount if you purchase your yarn for the knit-a-long at The Naked Sheep.

Further comments and ideas are welcomed, and they can be left here. Not really interested in making any of these sweaters? Join us anyway with whatever sweater you're working on!

Let's Start A Knit-A-Long!

2009-05-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

I’d like to do some knit-a-longs this summer on Saturdays at the shop, and I would really love your input on what you want to make.

I would like to focus on a different sweater each month (June-July-August). This will be an informal time to gather together, ask questions, get support (both technical and moral!) and just have fun together.

I’ll be offering a 15% discount if you purchase your yarn for the knit-a-long at The Naked Sheep.

Please leave your comments and ideas here. I'll let you know what we decide in the next newsletter!

Pink Angora Ripple

2009-05-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Finally finished! The bind-off took a bit longer than I anticipated.

This was such a great pattern to knit. Ripple, a free pattern on Knitty.

I used 2 skeins of Invernal from Aslan Trends in this super nummy pink.

The base of the scarf is basically entrelac, with a 2-tiered ruffle all around the edges. It was so fun to make, and the construction was so interesting. I'm going to teach the class this summer at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. It will be on Wednesdays in July...check it out!

Ripple

2009-05-06T17:12:00.001-07:00

From this...

To this...

To this...??? Check back tomorrow for the finished project photo!

April Book Group

2009-04-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight is book group at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. We'll be meeting from 6:30-8:30pm, and our book this month is "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" by David Wroblewski.

We'll be ordering pizza from our new neighbors, Atomic Pizza. They also have beer, wine and Coke products available. So come hungry and ready to have some fun!

So Very Soft and So Very Pink

2009-04-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

This is my Quick and Cozy Cardigan in Cascade's Soft Spun, the sweater I started during my birthday weekend out at Edgefield. It has knit up quickly, and the yarn is so lovely to work with. It's so soft, and so pink! I love it!

I just have the second sleeve to finish and sew in, but I'm about halfway done with that. And then I need to finish up the collar.

I can tell I'll be wearing this sweater a lot!

Cheri's Tweedy Aran Cardigan

2009-04-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of my Tweedy Aran Cardigan, as promised. This is the left front. I'd better get busy, it's supposed to be done for class this Sunday!

I'm really loving the yarn I chose for this project! And what a great name for a yarn, Therapi. That is exactly what knitting is for me, therapy. And the pattern is really fun and interesting. The perfect combination of challenging and enjoyable; which makes it relaxing for me!

Tweedy Aran Cardigan

2009-04-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

I'm currently taking the Tweedy Aran Cardigan class with Vivanne at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop.

Here's Vivianne, modeling her lovely finished sweater. I'm making mine using Therapi by South West Trading Company. Such nummy yarn! It's an incredibly soft blend of jadeite, wool and silk fibers; with a beautiful sheen! And although the pink is just lovely, I chose turquoise to knit up this sweater!

Once I have a little more knit up, I'll post a photo!

I'm all out of love...

2009-04-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

"I'm lying alone with my head on the phone
Thinking of you til it hurts
I know you hurt too, but what else can we do
Tormented and torn apart
I wish I could carry your smile in my heart
For times when my life seems so low
It would make me believe what tomorrow could bring
When today doesn't really know, doesn't really know...

I'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you..."

Oh yes, you recognize those lyrics...you might even be singing the words. Maybe you're like me, and you know all the words to all the songs? Yes, I'm talking about Air Supply...

Brad took me to Chinook Winds last weekend to see Russell and Graham (or should I say I forced Brad to take me!). For those who share my love of Air Supply, it was quite wonderful! They sound exactly the same, and it was a fun show! For those who don't share my taste in music...stop laughing! This is not an April Fool's joke!

Thank you, Russell and Graham, for an evening of happy memories!

Thank you, Brad, for being such a sweetie!

"Lost in love..."

Bubble Gum Pink Birthday Yarn

2009-03-11T16:39:00.000-07:00

I just spent a perfect birthday weekend out at Edgefield with my sweetie-pie, Brad. During this perfect weekend, we hung out with special friends, watched movies, drank some delicious beer, golfed, played darts and shuffleboard, watched the snow fall (so awesome!), and I had a wonderful spa day at Ruby's Spa. The Perfect Potion, to be exact. I highly recommend this!

I also finished the book for book group this month, 19 Minutes by Jodi Picoult. Such an intense book. Join us on Friday, March 27 @ 6:30pm at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop for what I expect will be a very interesting discussion.

Oh, and did I mention that I got a lot of knitting done? I ordered some special birthday yarn to make myself this really cute cabled cardigan. The yarn is Soft Spun by Cascade Yarns, in a delicious bubble gum pink (color #2837). What a surprise, huh?

Slip Stash Hat

2009-03-05T17:43:00.000-08:00

This was such a fun hat to make! It's one of Carolyn's patterns, The Slip Stash Hat. I made one for Nick for Christmas in black, gray and white. This one is a shop model at The Naked Sheep for a class I'm teaching this spring.

It's a super fun technique! And the yarn, Cash Vero DK, is delightful! It's a super soft blend of merino wool, microfiber and cashmere.

Stop by and touch it...you'll want to make one yourself!

Madrona Fiber Arts Retreat

2009-02-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

I just returned from 2 fun, fiber-filled days at Madrona Fiber Arts Retreat. What a blast! My friend was kind enough to invite me to sleep in the extra bed in her room at the Hotel Murano (thanks again, Meghan!). Oh my gosh...it was beautiful!!!

I had a chance to spend some time with Carolyn; who is looking marvelous, by the way. We all miss her at The Naked Sheep; but she has settled well into life in Jackson Hole, working and teaching at her local yarn shop. I hope they know how lucky they are to have her!

I'm already planning on closing up the shop next year, so I can go up for all 4 days! The list of classes offered is incredible, and it is so great to hang out for an extended period of time with a bunch of fiber enthusiasts. You should plan on joining me!

PS...Thanks so much for your feedback on carrying buttons in the shop! Seems like you all think it's a great idea!

Sweater for Baby Ruby

2009-01-28T11:18:00.001-08:00

Our neighbors had a little baby girl and named her Ruby. So sweet! I got to hold her the other day; she was so precious!

I made her this Knitting Pure and Simple Baby Cardigan using Cascade Sierra in Ruby Red. Cute, huh? Can't wait to see it on her!

Check out the darling sheep buttons! I'm thinking about ordering some cute buttons to sell at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. What do you think?

Zig Zag Scarf

2009-01-27T20:01:00.000-08:00

I used 3 skeins of Cascade Baby Alpaca Chunky and size 10 needles to make this scarf; and it has a really great soft and cozy feel to it!

Here's the pattern if you want to make one for yourself!

Abbreviations
K = knit
K2tog = knit 2 stitches together
M1 = make one stitch--pick up the bar between the stitches with the left needle, from the front to the back; and then knit it through the back loop

Cast on 21 stitches.

Row 1: K1, m1, knit to last 3 stitches, k2tog, k1.
Row 2: Knit.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 nine more times.

Repeat row 2 once.

Work the last 21 rows until desired length. Bind-off and weave in ends.

Easy, huh? Enjoy!

I Hate Swatching!

2009-01-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

Well, really I don’t hate swatching; but that is a sentiment that I hear constantly at the shop. Most people are so excited to get started on their new project, they view swatching as a waste of time. They want to get to the real knitting.

In response to my suggestions to knit a gauge swatch, I often hear things like, “But it will probably just work out, right?”; or “I always knit right on gauge”.

Most things don’t usually “just work out”; and always is a dangerous word in knitting. Many knitter’s need an attitude adjustment here. First of all, knitting is a process. And swatching is a part of that process. An important part!

Here are just a few reasons why you should learn to value swatching:

Swatching lets you determine your stitch gauge. The number of stitches and rows in one inch of knitted fabric. Being off by ½ stitch per inch can affect your finished product greatly. Yes, there are times when it won’t, but it’s better to be aware of the difference and make the choice to proceed confidently.

Swatching gives you a place to practice the stitch pattern called for in your pattern. Does the texture of the pattern work well with the yarn you’ve chosen? Do you enjoy the stitch pattern?

Swatching gives you a piece of fabric that you can use to test wash and block. If you’re unsure about how the yarn will wash up, test it first on a small scale!

Swatching lets you experience the yarn and decide whether it’s the right yarn for your project. Do you like the feel of it after it’s knitted? Does it have the right drape? Does it split?

So, take the time to knit your swatch. It’s definitely worth your time and effort. I realize that you may not ever learn to love to swatch; but maybe you will be able to embrace it as part of the wonderful process of knitting!

Fun in the Snow

2009-01-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

Brad had some fun during our last snow day. He made me this very sweet little snow woman!

Thanks Brad!

Does Riley Like the Snow?

2008-12-18T10:15:00.000-08:00

This is a question I get alot. I'll let you decide for yourself. I think this picture says it all!

But he does look darling in his Will Ferrell inspired Elf sweater, don't you think?!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2008-12-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

I am loving this snow! It's great knitting weather. And things have been really hopping at The Naked Sheep. It's been great these last couple days to have so many people come to the shop to just knit and hang out. We've been so busy, though, that I'm way behind on my gift knitting!

We just received new colors in Tapestry from Universal Yarns. This is such soft and easy to care for yarn. We also received Impressions, which is brand new for us. Perfect for those last minute hats!

I'm at the shop every day until Christmas. Stop by and knit with me!

I just purchased my very own Denise Needle Kit

2008-11-11T18:11:00.000-08:00

I was never very interested in trying them before. I think that they’re a fabulous idea for new knitters, just starting to grow their needle stash. But I have so many individual needles, it just didn’t seem necessary to purchase a kit.

Well, I decided to try them; and I am really enjoying them! Let me tell you why…

I like the flexibility the kit offers. I just returned from a lovely and relaxing long weekend in Manzanita. For me, going on holiday means a lot of knitting. And probably starting a new project, maybe even two! Having the kit allowed me to do all my swatching at the beach, without fretting over not having the right size or the right length of needles. The kit is small and compact and didn’t take up too much space in my knitting bag. More room for yarn!

I like the feel of these tips, they are silky smooth! They also have a nice point; not too pointy, not too dull…just right.

I like the way the tips click on and off easily; and they stay put!

I like the cords. They are smooth and straighten out quickly. And they’re pink!

The joins are great. Nothing gets snagged where the needle connects to the cord.

I’m hooked! Stop by the shop and check them out for yourself. We have the blue kits, as well as the pink kits. When you purchase the pink kit, $5 of your purchase goes toward breast cancer research.

Finishing is Fun!

2008-11-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

Here are 3 of my students-Carolyn, Tricia and Dena-from Beginner Socks at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop. Well, here are there footsies, beautifully adorned with their first almost completed sock! After this photo was taken, they hurried back to the classroom, and finished off the toe! Yeah! Finishing is so much fun!

I'm in the midst of beginning some holiday projects, hoping to finish them in less than 2 months! All other projects will be set aside, as I lovingly, and frantically, knit up some gifts for family and friends.

What are you knitting (better yet, finishing) these days?

Big to Little Striped Scarf

2008-10-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here’s the pattern for the scarf that I knit for Jefferson High School. Scroll down to the October 16 post for a photo of the scarf. I used 2 skeins of Eco Wool (1 skein each of colors 8457 and 8449) and size 9 16” circular needles.

Cast on 56 stitches using color A. Place marker and join into the round, being careful not to twist your stitches. Knit 19 rounds.

Change to color B and knit 2 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 18 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 3 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 17 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 4 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 16 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 5 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 15 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 6 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 14 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 7 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 13 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 8 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 12 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 9 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 11 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 10 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 10 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 11 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 9 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 12 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 8 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 13 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 7 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 14 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 6 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 15 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 5 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 16 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 4 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 17 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 3 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 18 rounds.
Change to color A and knit 2 rounds.
Change to color B and knit 19 rounds.

Bind off. Cut 28 11” lengths of yarn for fringe, in both colors. Apply the opposite color fringe to the color at each end.

Yippee! You’re done!

Mmmmmmmm...Coffee

2008-10-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

And I don't think I'm alone in this one. I do like myself a good cup of coffee. Well, to be exact, I like a 12 oz nonfat mocha, some days with a little whip and some days without a little whip. And I have ordered that drink at many a coffee shop. Large chains and small independent ones.

I have to say, my favorite spot right now for the the perfect 12 oz nonfat mocha, with or without whip, is Blend Coffee Lounge. Conveniently located about 4 blocks west of The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

The gals at Blend are always pleasant, remember my name and my drink (even though I mix it up a bit between the whip and no whip thing; and sometimes I'll get it iced) and make a very delicious and beautiful coffee drink!

And the owner, Lara, is a sweetie! She constantly goes beyond what is expected; whether it's replacing a drink that wasn't just right or giving me an occasional extra punch on my coffee card (gotta love those coffee cards!), I really enjoy chatting with her in the mornings, or afternoons or early evening. Whenever the caffeine bug bites!

It's an inviting spot with good light and comfy places to sit and knit! Maybe I'll see you there soon!

Scarves for Jefferson

2008-10-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

In addition to continuing to collect yarn and needles for the knitting groups at Jefferson High School and Harriet Tubman Middle School, we are also collecting hand knit or crocheted scarves for Jefferson High School. These scarves will be sold in their student store to raise money for senior activities, specifically Senior Prom and their Senior Trip. The scarves can be made any way you want, in Jefferson school colors. We have a list of suggested yarns and colors here at the shop, as well as some ideas for patterns.

If you are interested in buying yarn for this project, but don’t have the time to actually knit/crochet the scarf; just purchase the yarn from us, and I’ll make sure it goes to someone who would love to create a beautiful scarf but doesn’t have the financial resources to purchase the yarn themselves. We’ll be collecting the scarves here at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop through the end of the year.

Little Pumpkin

2008-10-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Here's Riley in his festive pumpkin sweater. He's enjoying the cooler weather; a great chance to wear all his stylish sweaters! I'm also enjoying the cooler weather, and the excuse to knit for my tiny little dog! But really, who needs an excuse?!

He's laying next to a felted pumpkin that one of my very talented customers, Craig, whipped up for me. So cute! We have these needle felted pumpkin kits available at The Naked Sheep!

Knitting at Di Prima

2008-10-13T15:57:00.001-07:00

The Friday Morning Knitting Group just celebrated it’s 2 year anniversary, and we are still meeting the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at Di Prima Dolci Italian Bakery from 9-11am. At our last meeting, we presented Pat, the owner of Di Prima, with a beautiful scarf that we all took a part in knitting. Her response was priceless, and apparently the gift was given at just the right time to lift her spirits after a tough morning.

I am so thankful for Pat’s presence in our neighborhood. Di Prima is a comfortable and welcoming spot where you can sit and relax and get a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner; as well as just grabbing a nummy coffee drink and pastry to go!

And you will always be greeted with enthusiasm and a lovely smile by Pat!

Knit One, Save One

2008-10-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

We are collecting preemie caps for Knit One, Save One: A Campaign to Save Millions of Babies. This effort is sponsored by Save the Children and Warm Up America!

You can read more about it here.

You can download an Action Kit here. The Action Kit contains Easy Patterns to Knit or Crochet, as well as more information on the program.

Join me and knit some sweet little preemie caps that will go to babies all over the world! These babies often have low birthweights, so the caps need to be smaller than we are used to making. A circumference of 9-11” is ideal. Use any smooth, washable yarn.

I'll be giving the caps to Kathy at the Portland Knitter's Guild at the December meeting. She'll package up all the caps she collects and send them in for us. The deadline to turn in your caps at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop is Sunday, December 7.

Thanks!

Therapi Baby Hat

2008-10-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

We just got some really great new yarns from South West Trading Company. Our first order with them.

One of the new yarns is called Therapi. It's a blend of wool, silk and Jadeite, which is a fiber created using crushed Jade. It's so soft and nice to work with. It's called Therapi, because Jade is known to have healing qualities. It would be perfect for a prayer shawl; which lots of people seem to be knitting right now.

I made this cute little baby hat with just one skein. I used size 8 16-inch circular and double pointed needles. Here's the pattern:

Cast on 84 stitches. Join in the round; being careful not to twist.

Round 1: Knit.
Round 2: (K2tog) 2 times, (yo, k1) 4 times, *(k2tog) 4 times. (yo, k1) 4 times; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, (k2tog) 2 times.
Round 3: Purl.
Round 4: Knit.

Repeat rounds 1-4 six more times.

Work decrease rounds as follows, changing to dpn's when necessary:

Round 1: *Knit 5, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: *Knit 4, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 4: Knit
Round 5: *Knit 3, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 6: Knit.
Round 7: *Knit 2, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 8: Knit.
Round 9: *Knit 1, k2tog; repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 10: Knit.
Round 11: *K2tog: repeat from * to the end of the round.
Round 12: Repeat round 11.
Round 13: Repeat round 11.

With remaining 3 stitches, knit an I-cord that is about 1.5 to 2 inches long. Sew it down to the top of the hat to make a little loop. Weave in ends and you're done!

2008 Knit and Crochet Show

2008-09-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Knit and Crochet Show was a huge success for us! I'm so glad that we decided to participate in the show this year. I heard people say over and over, "I've never heard of The Naked Sheep, I'll have to come visit your shop". And that's exactly what we were hoping for! We passed out hundreds of fliers with the shop info, and a 10% off coupon attached.

We also had fun seeing all our friends at the show! Thanks for stopping by to say "hi" and show us your support! You are greatly appreciated!

I was so happy with the way our booth came together; we had such a colorful and cheerful space. A great big THANK YOU to the vendors who were represented at The Naked Sheep's booth:

Bob and Meghan, The Spinner's Web

Sharon, Stitchjones

Kevin and Laurie, Woolpets

Karie, Silverpurl

LaVon, Bead & Purl

Bradley, Sheep Thoughts

Universal Yarn

All of these great companies are represented at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop year round! Stop by and check out what they have to offer!

Laurie's book signing of Wool Pets in our booth on Saturday afternoon went fabulously. She signed many books, and demonstrated needle felting. It drew quite a crowd. We enjoyed spending some time with Laurie and her husband, Kevin, on Friday evening.

Bob and Meghan were troopers and spent hours demonstrating at their spinning wheel. What a great team! Their display of handspun and handpainted yarns was simply stupendous! And we moved that entire lovely display to The Naked Sheep. So if you didn't get a chance to come to the show, stop by and feel and touch and even smell their lovely yarns! There is plenty for everyone to take a skein home!

And a special thanks to Bradley, with whom I couldn't live without! What a huge help and support he was, as always! And ever the entertainer! He can always make me smile. Thanks, honey!

Two fun weekends in a row!

2008-09-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

Brad and I had a fun and relaxing time away this past weekend. We went to the Hotel Oregon in McMinnville with friends for a couple nights. It's located in the heart of downtown McMinville, which is full of fun little shops, restaurants and interesting things to look at.

We got all rested up for this coming weekend, the big Knit and Crochet Show here in Portland at the Convention Center. We are busy working out all the last minute details of getting ready; ordering a banner, printing up coupons, pricing product, etc.

We'll be at booth #415, and we would love for you to stop by and say "Hello!"

In the neighborhood

2008-08-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday morning, Brad and I had breakfast at one of our favorite neighborhood hangouts, Di Prima Dolci Italian Bakery. What a treat! We sat outside in the garden, and it was just so beautiful and peaceful. We enjoyed delicious coffee, and we shared the Frittata with rosemary ham. Oh so nummy!

They are open late for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. We've been several times, and it is a real treat!

Pat, the owner, is such a sweetie! Always so cheerful and hospitable. We are lucky to have her in the neighborhood!

If you haven't been to Di Prima before, you've got to try it! Don't have anyone to go with? Ask me!

The Friday morning knitting group from The Naked Sheep Knit Shop meets at Di Prima the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month from 9-11am. Join us sometime for a morning of knitting, sipping delicious beverages and enjoying the company of some lovely knitters and crocheters!!!

Classes at The Sheep

2008-08-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

What a fun group of ladies! This is Carolyn's Thursday afternoon Pick a Project class. Some of these ladies have been taking this class from her for the over 2 years! Don't they look like they're having a great time?!

I'll be taking over this group of lovely ladies this fall when Carolyn leaves us for Jacksonhole, Wyoming. I'm looking forward to spending time with them each week. The laughter and funny stories that come out of the classroom on Thursday afternoons is inviting.

Join us for this, or many other wonderful classes at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

Knit Naked, Ride Hard

2008-08-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share a few more Bridge Pedal 2008 photos with you. Here I am, joining up with The Naked Sheep Cycle Team at the rest stop at the end of the St Johns bridge.

And here I am with Brad, tootling along Willamette Blvd.

You should join us next year!

Bridge Pedal 2008

2008-08-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from this year's Bridge Pedal.

The Naked Sheep Cycle Team had a fun...

and groovy time!

They chose the 8 bridge ride, which was about 24 miles! What a great view off the Fremont Bridge! (The guy in the green shirt isn't so bad, either!)

Check out the awesome t-shirts that Brad designed for the cycle team! You can buy one at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

I joined them at the base of the St Johns bridge, and escorted them back to the shop. Then we continued on to a celebatory breakfast at Gravy on North Mississippi. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm, their bisquits and gravy rock!

Knit Naked and Ride Hard!

Knit and Crochet Show

2008-08-08T13:51:00.001-07:00

We are very excited to be participating in the Knit and Crochet Show this fall at the Convention Center in Portland, September 11-14. Visit us at booth #415!

At the show we will be featuring handpainted yarns from Spinnemann, Stitch Jones and needle felting kits from Woolpets.

We'll have fiber artists, Bob and Meghan from Spinnemann, in our booth spinning yarn during the show! How fun!

And Laurie from Woolpets will be doing a book signing in our booth on Saturday from 1-3pm. We have all of her needle felting kits available in the shop right now. They are so stinkin' cute!

It will be a very fun weekend! We'll keep you posted on how things are going!

Read about us!

2008-07-31T13:09:00.000-07:00

The Naked Sheep was mentioned in a special section of the Oregonian featuring North and Northeast Portland businesses on Alberta, Mississippi and Killingsworth. It was in the Sunday paper on July 27. There was a great photo of people knitting on the front couches during knit nite, as well as 4 lovely little paragraphs about us. Read to the end, they saved the best for last!

Entrelac Baby Blanket

2008-07-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

As you may remember, I really love to do entrelac. I think it's such a cool technique. Interesting to do, and really fabulous results.

Here's my latest creation, a cheerful baby blanket using 220 Superwash Handpaints. I used 1 skein each of colors 9857-9863. I think it looks like candy!

I finished the blanket, so now I'm working on writing the pattern. It should be available in a week or so. I think it would make a fun class this fall at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

Check out our awesome windows!

2008-07-17T12:15:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share pics of the beautiful shop windows at The Naked Sheep Knit Shop!

Thanks to Scot Campbell; aka: Extremo the Clown!

Thanks for your support!

2008-07-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

Our 3rd Anniversary Sale and Celebration was a HUGE success! We had so many wonderful things on sale, lots of goodies to give away, way too many friends to visit and knit with...and we ate cake! Thanks for your overwhelming support of The Naked Sheep!

I've said it before, but I can't say it enough...I love my life! The Naked Sheep Knit Shop is a dream come true! Thanks for your contribution in making it an ongoing reality.

Hope to see you soon!