Black Sheep Knitting Guild

Time to think about the Retreat

2012-01-25T17:33:00.000-05:00

Save the date(s) and save a space......

The 2012 BSKG Retreat is May 4 - 6 and the approximate cost is $200. A $75 deposit will save a spot for YOU. You can pay the deposit at the Guild meeting on February 14.

January Meeting Notes

2012-01-18T16:27:00.000-05:00

The January meeting was great! It was my last meeting as president. I handed over the reins to Kelley and Charli. I’ve enjoyed my year, it has been busy and I hope productive. Thanks to all those in the guild for helping me get through the year. And thanks for the flowers, it was unexpected, and they are beautiful!

Here are some links to the techniques that were demonstrated yesterday. I plan on using the Channel Island cast on for my next pair of top down socks.

Channel Island cast on:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up-0QOubXQ8

Yarn overs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_22bI4sF8c&feature=related

continental knitting yarn overs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbTkgE6McrE&feature=related

Three needle bind off:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpJUrCX52DU

Everyone should have received an invitation from Elfster to participate in the Sneaky Sheep v. 5 gift exchange. Please reply by January 30, as that is the date when the exchange closes and the names are drawn. If for some reason you did not get the link, let us know.

We also mentioned the Sandhill Crane Wine and Wool Festival on January 28. Here is some additional information:
http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com/pages/events.html
"Winter Wine & Wool Festival
Saturday, January 28, 11-6
Our summer Wine & Wool Festival was such a success that we're planning an indoor one this winter. Just when the world looks completely bleak outdoors and everyone has a little cabin fever, the winery will be filled with colorful yarn, fiber, knitted items, and knitting supplies.
Mark your 2012 calendar now for this fun event. Free admission."

Don’t forget Knit Michigan, Saturday February 4.
http://knitmichigan.org/?page_id=4

Rita

the December meeting's over

2011-12-16T18:44:00.002-05:00

and we learned a lot. Beth Smith talked about Dorset, Border Cheviot, Icelandic, Black Welsh, Cormo and Jacob sheep and many more. Spinning -and washing - different types of fleece gives you yarn with different properties. Some yarns are better for one project than another might be.

Sue Chase and Suzanne Jones provided items for the monthly raffle. The lucky winners: Namast bag - Kelley Anderson, handspun and a book - Sarah Turner, spring-colors knitting bag - Sharon Zmick, Aussie wool & a pattern - Mary Herr, 10 skeins of Brown Sheep - Chris Hammel, camel merino & a pattern - Eileen Glogower, "Great Knitted Gifts" - Judith Davis, "Personality Plus" - Sue Sullivan, and a sheep plaque - Stacey Totzke.

We were treated to a Trunk Show by Laurie Goodman. Among her beautiful items were many things made for her niece... the lucky little girl!

And Laurie has found out she has a grandson on the way. He already has a sweater, 2 pair of booties, a colorful blanket and more waiting for him.

December meeting

2011-12-07T13:47:00.001-05:00

The BSKG meeting is next Tuesday, December 13 at 7PM. Sign in and raffle ticket sales begin at 6:30.

Beth Smith from the Spinning Loft will talk to us about sheep breeds and wool, our Member Trunk Show will feature Laurie Goodman, and preparations will begin for Knit Michigan.

It's possible that t-shirts will be ready, so have cash or checks available.

Charli Osborne - new V.P.

2011-11-12T13:37:00.001-05:00

It was a night of fun with elections - Charli is the 2012 V.P. - raffles, show and share, and the brown bag gift exchange!

Stacey Totzke and Harriet Atlas generously donated to this month's raffle. The lucky winners were: Kelley Kencil - 1570 yards of cotton with a pattern, Joanne Ruzza - Louet spinning fiber, Belinda Barron - silk ruana, Joan Duncan - yarn, needles and a needle case, Tanya Thomann - Araucania yarn, Barbara Burt - a sock book and DVD, and Kate Pultz - 12 skeins of Gedifra cotton.

a busy November

2011-10-25T13:25:00.003-05:00

We meet next Tuesday, November 8, at 7pm at St. Columban. Sign in and raffle ticket sales begin at 6:30.

November is our Mystery Gift Trade.....bring a brown bag with a knitting/sheep related item to trade and you can take part. Remember, the item should be no more than $10. A fun time is had by all as you choose your bag at random.... and sometimes it is stolen by someone else!

Also on the agenda is the election for 2012 Vice President. The 2011 - 2012 Swag will be announced and orders will be taken. And please don't forget about the FREE Table. Bring unfinished projects and craft-related items you don't want but someone else might like.

Linda F

Here's info about the Shop Hop from Harriet.. Car- pooling [is that a word?] will be discussed.

Shop Hop - Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 12 & 13, 2011

Can you think of a better way to spend a weekend in November?

* Pick up your FREE KNITTING PASSPORT at the first store you visit.
* Specials vary by shop.
* For a minimum $15 (pre-tax) purchase at each store, each hopper will receive a gift (different at each store) and get their passport stamped.
* Turn in your completed passport showing at least six shops where qualifying purchases were made to be eligible to win one of seven gift certificates PLUS: One lucky participant will win a set of Addi Click Lace needles, donated by Skacel. Winners will be notified by Dec.1.
* Enjoy treats and refreshments at each stop, selections vary by shop and time of day.

Participating Stores:

My Craft Room

6020 Rochester Rd Troy 248-879-3360

Basketful of Yarn

5 South Main Clarkston 248-620-2491

Have You Any Wool?

2455 Robina Berkley 248-541-9665

Heritage Spinning & Weaving

47 E. Flint Lake Orion 248-693-3690

Knitting on the Fringe

33340 W. 14 Mile W. Bloomfield 248-851-7875

Knitting Room

261 E. Merrill Birmingham 248-540-3623

Skeins on Main

428 S. Main Rochester 248-656-9300

Good response!

2011-10-13T10:19:00.000-05:00

It was a busy meeting on Tuesday! Donna's Trunk Show included many beautiful items, Tanya's demonstration of finishing techniques was very informative, and a lot of members signed up for the field trip on 10/22.

The "free table" seems to be a big success - so keep those items coming!

Once again BSKGers showed their generosity and came through with a lot of charity items.

Thanks to Kate Pultz, the Guild and Claudia Huffmaster for this months raffle items. The lucky winners were: Michelle Dagenais - sock yarn, Ellen Rancillio - the book Knit Stitch, Laurie Goodman - the book Purl Stitch, Sue Waid - the blacksheep bowl(made by Jeni the potter), Vangie Agemy - a hat and scarf kit, Judith Davis - gift bag, tags and CD, Rita Perrone - Interweave holiday magazine and gift tags, Joanne Ruzza - a childs sweater kit, Heatherrrrrrrrrrr Perrone - 10 skeins of DK yarn, and Linda Mayotte - 8 skeins of Debbie Bliss silk.

2011-10-05T10:22:00.000-05:00

Our next meeting is Tuesday, October 11, from 7 to 9. Sign in and raffle ticket sales begin at 6:30. Speaking of raffles... we need more people to sign up to donate raffle items!

Charity hats and mittens are due at the October meeting, Donna Mrozek will be presenting a Trunk Show, and Tanya Thomann will be "exploring craft" with finishing techniques.

To allow you some practice with finishing techniques during the October meeting, you may want to have a few swatches knit up and ready to go. If you don't, you'll still be able to watch the techniques demonstrated, but will not be able to practice them yourselves.

Use whatever yarn you have on hand, and an appropriate needle size. You'll have an easier time of things if you use a lighter, solid colored yarn; but please don't purchase anything for this!

Stockinette Stitch(knit the right side, purl the wrong side):
1-- 40 st x 35ish rows
2--20 st x 35ish rows (make these the same length as the wider swatch)
1--40 st x 15ish rows, leave this on needles and do not bind off.

Garter Stitch (knit every row)
1--20 st x 20 ridges (40 rows)
2--10 st x 20 ridges (40 rows)

Additional supplies:
Contrasting colored yarn, a darning (chibi) needle, paper and pencil for notes.

Don't forget... we now have a "take it" table. You can bring in craft items you are willing to give away and take anything you want from it. This includes unfinished projects, extra items (needles, stitch markers, yarn), and project bags.

Linda F

the long-awaited September meeting came and went

2011-09-17T14:49:00.005-05:00

and a good time was had by all! This year all members received a Black Sheep keychain.

Tanya presented a history of the Black Sheep Knitting Guild along with pictures of early meetings.

The September raffle prizes were provided by the BSKG. Lucky winners were: Stacy Totzke - a sock book and yarn, Judith Davis - a knitting book of monsters and yarn, Joan Duncan - a color work yarn set, Tany Thomann - a felting kit and yarn, Mimi Lambert - a childrens sweater kit, and Kelley Anderson - the sock summit gift set.

In a special raffle, Kate Pultz won the scarf that was started at the Retreat this year. It's the perfect color for her!

Shop Hop

2011-09-10T14:57:00.003-05:00

The annual Shop Hop is Thursday September 15-Sunday September 18! Rae’s Yarn, Woven Art, Yarn Garden and Sticks & Strings Boutique have teamed up to bring Mid-Michigan knitters this event.

The Shop Hop is many things…

* A fun day shopping with your friends
* A chance to see what all the local shops have to offer and many of the new yarns for fall
* Exclusive sales and discounts for shop hoppers during the event
* Entry into daily door prize drawing at each shop & into each shops grand prize drawing. That’s 4 chances at Grand Prizes! Each grand prize package is valued at over $150!
* Each shop has designed a new pattern that’s offered free to shop hoppers. (that’s $24 in patterns) Our pattern is the Snap Dragon Cardi, a cute baby sweater.
* Visit all 4 shops & receive the winning pattern from our design competition (to be unveiled at the shop).
* Each participant receives an exclusive event knitting bag filled with goodies. This years bags are going to be great! We have donations from several knitting companies, so you’ll be getting cool knitting gear.
* A cool collectible event passport.
* Plus, the passport contains coupons valid in October for a return trip to the shops. Passports are limited so sign up now.

There will be a car-pool sign up sheet at the Guild meeting.

Knitter alert!

2011-09-06T12:37:00.000-05:00

The first meeting of the BSKG 2011-2012 year is only one week away. As always, a busy night is planned: there will be introductions, Tanya Thomann will present a history of the guild, there will be opportunities to sign up for the retreat committee and other projects. If that's not enough, in addition to the usual raffle there will be a
special raffle for the scarf that was made during the retreat.

An addition this years meetings will include a Find What You've Been Looking For Free Table where members can bring any craft related items for others to take home. It's a way for you to clean out any unwanted/unloved projects, including unfinished objects, yarn, needles, and other craft items. We need a volunteer to run this program.

A vote will be taken on a change in the bylaws. The bylaw amendment wording is:
Initial membership dues are $15.00 plus the current TKGA annual dues for one calendar year.
This will change the current set amount.

See you in one week at St. Columban Church at 7PM.

Linda F

Stitch N Pitch

2011-08-13T19:49:00.003-05:00

It's coming up soon - Sunday Sept 25, 1:05 game time. Please let us know if you wish tickets, we will buy one block and all sit together. Let us know by August 24, 2011. We are collecting hats for homeless vets (Michigan Veterans Foundation), for each hat you will be entered to win fabulous prizes!
Hope to see you there.
Please email blacksheepknittingguild@hotmail.com if you want tickets.

Here is a link to the flyer if you would like more info.
MORE INFORMATION (PDF, 934 KB)

2011-07-30T14:48:00.001-05:00

Anyone up for a special raffle I'm September? I just picked up a copy of the new book Coffee Break Knits, and had it signed by all five authors...can you recognize them all?

I'm supposed to brag that I have a picture of Irish Girl Knits!

Sock Summit

2011-07-28T11:17:00.001-05:00

We're here!

Meeting Survey and Stitch N Pitch

2011-07-16T20:42:00.004-05:00

Below is a link to a survey regarding BSKG meeting content. Please fill out the survey by July 30th. This survey will help us to schedule the meetings for next year.
Click here to take survey

Stitch N Pitch is scheduled for Sun Sept 25th. We need to order tickets by Aug 25th. As in past years, we will order as a group, so that we can sit together. Please let me know if you want tickets, and the quantity. This is a great event to meet fellow knitters and their FAMILIES. Tickets are $20 plus your share of the $6 service fee.

Sandhill Crane Winery ~ Wine & Wool Festival

2011-06-30T19:14:00.002-05:00

Sandhill is teaming up with local yarn shop, The Dropped Stitch, for this 2nd annual event on Saturday, July 30, from 11-6. Free admission.

The grounds will be filled with booths of fiber farmers and indie dyers. You can shop for yarn, fiber, or knitted/crocheted items, watch the demos, attend a workshop, or just shop and sip!

For complete details go to: http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com/pages/events.html

If you're interested, email the Black Sheep at hotmail.

2011-06-21T20:21:00.002-05:00

Some of the sheep are planning to go to the Michigan Fiber Festival in Allegan this August. You can find details at http://www.michiganfiberfestival.info/
The plan is to go 8/19 and spend the night. If you are interested, email Kathleen Hearne of Harriet Atlas [check you member roster].

Speaking of fiber, one of Kathleen's students wrote the following for school:

The scarf’s lasting lesson

One day Ms. Hearne decided to knit a scarf for her favorite niece as a wedding gift. Ms. Hearne woke up and decided that it was a great day to start this project. At 11am right after she had her normal breakfast of scrambled eggs and grits she went on a yarn crawl to find just the right yarn. She and her friends piled into the mini van where they traveled from store to store knitting, chatting, and finding the perfect yarn.

Before they started their adventure they needed to get gas in the car. Using MapQuest they calculated that the total distance of the yarn crawl would be 155 miles. The mini van got 16 miles per gallon so each of the 5 members had to contribute about 2 gallons of gas. At a price of $4.25 a gallon each member would chip in $ 8.50. At 1pm they arrived at a store called “Have Ewe Any Wool” where Ms. Hearne found just the right yarn for the job. It was perfect, thick, warm, and bulky enough to make it the thickness she wanted. She picked out the colors for the scarf: blue and pink, the same as the wedding’s colors. Ms. Hearne was so happy, she couldn’t wait to get the scarf started.

Ms. Hearne only had one problem: how large was she supposed to make it? She thought about it and couldn’t figure out how many rows and columns would be appropriate. Using her size 20mm needles and bulky yarn she knew that each stitch was about 1 in wide by l/2 inch in length. In order to solve the problem she had estimate how large it would be on herself. To do this she had to break out her math skills! She used her cloth tape measure and approximated the appropriate length and width the scarf would be. It had to be about 8 inches wide and 60inches long. So Ms. Hearne took out her calculator and multiplied 8x 1 so she knew to have 8 across. To find the rows she multiplied 1/2 x 60 so 120 rows were necessary. As a result the scarf turned out beautifully! Ms. Hearne packed her scarf in a nice box and added a bow on the top.

When her niece opened it she jumped for joy because she realized it was made with the Wollmeise Yarn that was hand dyed and imported from Germany! She thanked her aunt and wore it to the reception because she was so chilly in her strapless dress!

Oakland Knitter's Picnic

2011-06-16T20:15:00.002-05:00

The picnic was held on Wed. June 8th at Firefighter's Park in Troy. The weather was fantastic, although it was a very hot day, we were in the shade and there was a nice breeze. Sally P., Wylie, Chris H., Rita P., Marie W. and Linda M. attended. The pot luck as usual was very good, and abundant. The Oakland Guild had fabulous door prizes, and all of us BSKGers but Sally ;-( went home with door prizes. There were beautiful yarns and knitting bags raffled off. Show and share - everyone had beautiful items to show. Thanks to the Oakland Guild for inviting us. We had a great time, and got to spend time getting to know the members of the Oakland Guild.

WWKIP 2011

2011-06-13T08:51:00.008-05:00

A gray morning with the threat of rain turned into a lovely afternoon to sit in Shain Park and knit.

BSKG Board Meeting

2011-06-02T14:48:00.002-05:00

The date for the open board meeting is June 14th at 7.
Try to attend the Oakland Knitters Guild picnic or KIP day if you can. Details in the previous post.

Stitch N’ Pitch and other events

2011-05-18T20:28:00.014-05:00

Although the Black Sheep don't have official guild meetings over the summer — we do have some upcoming activities planned.

Open BSKG Board Meeting
We will hold our annual open board meeting on Tuesday, June 7 at St. Columban's, 7:00 pm. If you are interested in the inner workings of the Guild, please attend.

Knitters Picnic
Wednesday June 8 at 5:30. Firefighters Park, 1800 W. Square Lake Rd, Troy. Bring a dish to pass (there will be plates/cups/plasticware), a chair to sit on, a project to work on, a finished project for show and share, and a sweater or jacket (it is in the shade, and got cold last year). This picnic is hosted by the Oakland Knitting Guild.

Worldwide Knit in Public Day
A loosely organized event — knitters promote the art by knitting in public places worldwide. Bring a chair and knitting to join us in Shain Park, Birmingham on June 11, at 1 p.m. Whoever shows up first, please pick a spot w/ both sun and shade (if possible).

Stitch N’ Pitch
Join us September 25 for the annual Stitch N’ Pitch at Comerica Park. Detroit Tigers vs. Baltimore Orioles, knitting and friends. MORE INFORMATION (PDF, 934 KB)

Keep checking the blog, we will be listing other events this summer. We are planning a picnic in August at a member's home, among other events.

May meeting

2011-05-17T11:16:00.007-05:00

Our May "swap and sale" meeting was filled with yarn, food and more yarn. If a picture speaks a thousand words... here are a lot of words.

April Meeting - SS3.4

2011-04-18T10:05:00.008-05:00

What a great meeting we had! Our annual sneaky sheep exchange brought out the creativity in our members. Hats, scarves, shawls & cowls, slippers, socks, even a pair of legwarmers, mitts & mittens, jewelry and a gardening apron were all among the many gorgeous items. Check out the photos on the right hand side of the blog!
Judith presented this year's charity knitting - we will be making hats and mittens for Headstart children.

Our VP Kelley presented the Tip of the Month, how to SSK without the SS. I've been using it - what a time saver.
The KAL for the month - the Liesl sweater - three people wore their creations!

This month's raffle was provided by Rachel Lawson, Diane Dininski, Stacey Totzke, Harriet Atlas, Marguerite Winer
The lucky winners were:
Nancy (a guest) – needlefelting kit
Rebecca – Mystery yarn from Rachel
Brenda Dunlop – Reddonm Hill Yarn from Rachel
Barb Schultz – Cascade 220 and markers from Rachel
Jodi – Wrap Kit from Harriet
Kelley A – 2 skeins of Lush from Harriet
Jackie – tote bag from Marguerite,
Katy – 2 skeins Alpaca Sox from Diane
Tanya – 2 skeins cotton/silk from Diane
Marcy – magazines/patterns from Stacey

April 12 BSKG meeting

2011-04-07T08:05:00.001-05:00

Doors open at 7:00 pm for sign in and raffle ticket sales.
It's almost time for the S3.4! Hopefully everyone has their project well in hand. It will be exciting to see what everyone has created for their sneaky sheep. Along with the sneaky sheep exchange, Judith will have the charity kick-off for this year. That will give everyone the summer to do their charity knitting. The annual retreat is coming up, and there are still spots left. We always have a great time, it is a chance to get to know fellow knitters better, knit, relax, and just enjoy the weekend. We will have a classes, chair massages and henna tattoos. Please consider coming if you can!
Please see the attachment for information regarding programs held by the Needlework and Textile Guild of Michigan (NTGM). Kate Pultz is our contact with that guild, and there are some interesting programs coming up. NTGM has invited our members to attend their meetings.

See you Tuesday.

Black Sheep Knitting Guild

they came, they saw, they shopped!

2011-03-28T10:52:00.003-05:00

I see lots of bags... but no one has fessed up how much was spent on the trip to Bowling Green, OH. You'll note, lots of repeat travelers/shoppers.

Black Swamp Spinners Guild Market Day & Fiber Fair

2011-03-17T15:04:00.002-05:00

Saturday, March 26, is the Black Swamp Spinners Guild Market Day & Fiber Fair in Bowling Green, OH. It's a wonderful fiber fair and easy ride. You can see from the picture how much fun previous visitors had.

Please respond to Harriet if you’d like to car pool that morning. We’ll meet at Anderson Middle School around 8 am and go from there. Fair goes to 4 pm, but we won’t stay that long. Probably be back at Anderson by 2 or 3.

Can’t remember if there’s an entry cost and it's not mentioned on the website; but minimal cost, if there is one. So, bring a bit of cash for that, for lunch (we’ll stop somewhere), and a few $$ to kick in for your driver. And, oh yes, $$ for what you decide you can’t live without at the fair.

what a meeting...

2011-03-13T13:07:00.009-05:00

As promised, Christa Kindt-Newhouse was a wonderful guest! She showed us many of her brioche pieces which are amazing. Then she shared patterns and taught brioche knitting to our members.

Raffle Items were provided by Kim Whelen, Stacey Totszke, Sharon Hagen, and Linda Francisco. The lucky winners were Merritt Collins - yarn, Barbara Burt - a purse kit, Linda - baby snug kit, Elaine Glogower - felted knits kit, Ann Ryan - baby knits kit, Rachel Lawson - fabulous handknits, Kelly Kencik - yarn bowl, Kelly Anderson - heirloom lace yarn and pattern. Kathleen Endlein, Rita and Mimi also won books.

Anny Ryan and Barbara Burt won expenses-paid trips to the RETREAT.

We had a show of Tanya's hat pattern done in different colors by BSKG members. What a difference the color combination makes!

BSKG Meeting

2011-03-01T15:26:00.003-05:00

Where does a month go? It's just one week until the March 8 meeting. The doors open at 7pm for sign-in and raffle ticket sales.

As always, an interesting evening is planned. Christa Kent Newhouse will be our guest; she will be talking about *double knitting*. She will be showing her double knit pieces, and talking about Bi-Color Brioche, and teaching Brioche. She has patterns and instructions for a scarf and if you wish to start one bring 2 skeins of contrasting colors of the same weight yarns and appropriate size needles, either double pointed or circular.

We are holding a special raffle! Be sure to bring some extra cash. In addition to our regular raffle we are having a special raffle for an expense paid trip (actually 2)... to our annual retreat! Tickets are $5.00 each and even if you've already paid you are eligible to win and we will refund any money you have already paid. Anyone who has been on this trip knows how much fun it is, and this is a wonderful prize ($195.00 value) for two lucky people!!!!

There will be a sign up sheet for the stitch n Pitch committee. You can sign up to carpool to the Black Swamp Spinners Guild Market Day & Fiber Fair; this is held in Bowling Green, OH, on March 26.

Happy Birthday to all the March Sheep: Pat Baker, Kim Whelan, Suzanne Jones, Sue Waid, Judith Davis, Linda Dean, Kathleen Pawlik, Kim Thorsen, Ellen Rancilio and Laurie Goodman.

Linda F.

The Retreat is soming up sooon!

2011-02-23T08:43:00.001-05:00

Just a quick reminder to register for the annual BSKG Retreat...a weekend of fun with fiber friends April 29 - May 1.
Includes 2 nights, 5 meals, snacks and workshops and more fun than you can shake a skein at!

We will be holding a special raffle at the March meeting for the 2 paid retreat admissions.
If you have already signed up, and then win the raffle, we will of course refund your deposit.

McMullen Center is a lovely place, set on the wooded shores of Higgins Lake, which has been noted as one of the world's most beautiful lakes.

Last year we had classes at the beach, went kayaking, had a bonfire at the beach, went for walks in the woods.
We have chair massages scheduled for Saturday afternoon, also we will have our own henna artist.
There will be a sale Sat. evening, with some our talented members showcasing their wares.

We have arranged a tour of Stonehedge Fiber Mill Friday afternoon, before the "official" retreat starts.

It's a great weekend of fiber fun, great conversations, and just an all around good time! For new members, it is a great chance to get to know everyone.

the February meeting was a busy one...

2011-02-16T14:23:00.004-05:00

Diane Dininsky brought along items she's made for a Trunk Show ~ always a treat for members.

Tanya Thomann gave us a lesson on Fair Isle knitting ~ she almost made it look easy. We all learned some tricks. And then she showed us steeking! Don't know if anyone's ready to try that yet.

The raffle items were generously provided by Charli Osborne, Diane Dininsky and Stacy Totzke. The lucky winners were Linda Francisco -sock yarn in a [cat] bag, peach feltable wool - Tanya Thomann, Donna Mrozek - Bag Style, Merritt Collins - Itty Bitty Toys, Ann Ryan - a squiggle scarf kit, and Wiley Rundell - One Skein Wonders. Michelle Dagenais won the KAL raffle.

a quick note

2011-02-10T13:01:00.002-05:00

The Spinner’s Flock Annual Winter Fleece Fair is Saturday, 2/19, 10 am - 4 pm. It's being held at Beach Middle School, 445 Mayer Drive, Chelsea, MI.

Anyone wanting to carpool, please contact bloomgirlknits on Ravelry or send a message to Harriet directly (check BSKG roster). I know at least a couple are going. The more, the merrier.

Here is the website for more info: http://www.spinnersflock.org/

February meeting & birthdays & field trips

2011-01-29T11:15:00.002-05:00

Our next meeting is February 8 and according to the *administration* it should be an exciting time! There will be a trunk show by Diane Dininsky and Tanya will be teaching color work and steeking. In addition, the SWAG is in! If you ordered a kit it's $25; if you ordered extra skeins they are $15 each.

Remember, the doors open at 7 for sign in and raffle ticket purchase.

Field trips for the month include Knit Michigan on February 5 and the Spinner's Flock Winter Fleece Fair in Chelsea on February 19.

Belated January birthdays wishes to Nancy Brown and me. :-) Very Happy Birthday to our February lambs: Jodi Dietz, Diane Dininsky, Merritt Collins, Kate Pultz and Heather Perrone!

S3.4 - Extremities

2011-01-19T21:22:00.002-05:00

It's time again for the Sneaky Sheep Exchange. If you didn't get an email notification, let us know! Sign up ends January 31st - so hurry and sign up before time runs out!

January meeting rescheduled

2011-01-12T13:23:00.001-05:00

Yesterday's meeting has been rescheduled for:
Tuesday Jan 18th, doors at 7:00, meeting begins at 7:30.
same place - St. Columban's

See you then.

TONIGHT'S MEETING CANCELED

2011-01-11T15:57:00.001-05:00

Due to the weather, tonight's meeting is canceled.
We will try to reschedule, we will keep you informed. If we cannot reschedule, we will send out the info we would have discussed via email.
Thanks.

January meeting and the weather

2011-01-10T17:30:00.002-05:00

If the weather tomorrow lives up to its prediction of 2-4 inches starting in the afternoon, we might cancel the meeting. We will post the cancellation here, and on Ravelry, and we will also email.
We hope it doesn't snow!! We have a great, busy meeting planned.

January

2011-01-07T15:19:00.001-05:00

See you soon- January 11th is our next meeting. Don't forget to buy raffle tickets between 7:00 and 7:30

Happy New Year. Hope everyone had a great holiday season. Out with the old, and in with the new, as they say. Kim Whelan will be retiring as the president, Kelley Kencik is beginning her term as the new VP, and Rita Perrone will be taking the reins as the President. Help us welcome them!
We be demonstrating our traditional cast on/cast off and something in the middle; the Sneaky Sheep Exchange begins, and Harriet will teach the quarter hour quickie - crocheted edgings. Retreat registration begins this month.

Please bring some (light) worsted weight yarn, and needles slightly smaller than appropriate - you want a tight gauge - for the cast on/cast off, and something in the middle.

December meeting

2010-12-18T15:43:00.008-05:00

Here's a link to a cute seasonal YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edIlyY5_6EU&feature=player_embedded
and one more: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndRhCDiA4pw&feature=fvw

As always, we had lovely raffle items this month, donated by Michelle Dagenais, Paula Kelley, Rachel Lawson, Joan Koelsch and Sally Pituch. the lucky winners were Judith Davis - Namaste circular case, Annette Ervin - a book and tape measure, Merritt Collins - Briar rose yarn and circular dog tags, Tanya Thomann - yarn and a knitters handbook, Sharon Hagen - notion kit and a book, Michelle Dagenais - Mirex silver yarn, and Kim Thorsen - cotton yarn and a bag pattern.

Joan Koelsch gave a new spin to a Trunk Show. Calling herself a *dabbler* she showed how her love of knitting, sewing, weaving and other crafts were handed down from her ancestors. She put a new spin on family trees, too.

We learned to do a cute project that involved knitting on toothpicks!!! Something to challenge fine motor skills and test patience.

getting to know her

2010-12-06T17:16:00.002-05:00

Did you know Kelley Kencik is our V.P.-elect?

1. what was your first project and when?
my first project was a feather and fan scarf that used 4 skeins of brown sheep wool. It's really long, but I love it and still wear it. I think it was 6 or so years ago.

2. what was your most difficult project?
My first real lace project. I was a really new knitter and I decided I would make my mom a scarf for Christmas. I think I knitted the scarf about 12 times when all was said and done. I was grateful for the the internet and life lines when I finally read about them about half way through the project.

3. what is your favorite project?
I LOVE SOCKS!!!!

4. salty or sweet?
Salty mostly, but sweet on occasion.

5. tell us something interesting about yourself
I own chickens and hope to have a beehive this year.

6. aside from knitting, what are you passionate about?
Cooking and gardening and books.

it's December

2010-12-06T16:33:00.002-05:00

and we have our meeting on December 14. Don't forget to sign in and buy your raffle tickets between 7 and 7:30.

Only 3 Black Sheep were born in December: Joellen Smith, Gloria Shelton and Michele Dagenais. Happy Birthday!

There are no field trips planned for December or January. You'll have to make your own.

Brown Bags and thieves

2010-11-15T13:02:00.005-05:00

Brown bags were in good supply at the November meeting. Black Sheep were eagerly awaiting the chance to choose and steal. No wonder Tanya says it's her favorite meeting of the year! Amidst all the goodies there were a few that seemed to catch the eye(s) of more than one of the Sheep.... and they were stolen repeatedly.

To add to the fun, the 2010/2011 swag was presented to the Guild and orders were taken. Sorry - I didn't get a picture.

There seemed to be a surplus of raffle items donated by Wendy Marvin and Stacey Totzke. The lucky winners were: purse - Rachel Lawson, 1955 yards of Mission Falls yarn - Erika Proschkow, 1445 yards of Mission Falls yarn - Michelle, lots of chenille yarn - Linda Ervine, felt wine bag - Marguerite Winer, needle organizer - Jackie, Baby Knit book - Linda Mayotte, Big Girls Knit book - Barb Boren, 5 knitting magazines - Rhys Hunter, Knitting Color books - Barb, and Pattern and notions - Paula Kelley.

November birthdays and meeting

2010-11-03T09:53:00.002-05:00

You don't want to miss the meeting next Tuesday, November 9 ~ it's going to be busy! We'll be having a Quarter Hour Quickie with Nancy Brown, order 2010-2011 swag, elect a vice-president and have our annual Brown Bag Exchange.

There will be a sign up sheet for the local Shop Hop on Saturday, November 13, if you want to car pool.

Be sure to wish a Happy Birthday to Rita Perrone, Dawn Jensen, Toni Loiacano, Erika Proschkow, Joan Koelsch, Tanya Thoman, and Barbara McAuliffe.

2010-10-15T09:08:00.002-05:00

5 generous people donated items for the October raffle: Kathleen Endlein, Colleen Robbins, Sharon Hagen, Heather Perrone and Tanya Thomann. The lucky winners thank them: Rachel Lawson - Knits to fit & Flatter, Sharon Hagen - Textured Knits, Joyce Crabtree - Knitting With Novelty Yarn and some novelty yarn, a guest named Sue - pink Berrocco Chinchilla yarn, Linda Francisco - Mother Daughter Knits, Sue Waid - a project bag, and Laurie Goodman - a notions bag.

11 guests joined us to see the Trunk Show starring LindaLu, to learn about knitting with tshirts and plarn, and to make felted soap [thanks Kate!].

Judith received a large number of white items for our charity project. They will all be put to good use warming people this winter.

In addition to all of this activity, nominations were made for vice-president. Charli Osborne and Kelley Kencik are the nominees. The election will be held at the November meeting. Also in November, you can sign up for the local shop hop on Saturday, November 13.

Linda F

Birthdays & Fiber

2010-10-02T12:57:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to the October Sheep: Barbara Burt, Sue Chase, Jackie Gregorich, Mary Lambert, Linda Mayotte, Lillian Molitz, Kathleen Reichenbach, and Opal Ritchie.

Saturday and Sunday October 23 and 24, is the Fourth Annual Fiber Expo in Ann Arbor.

September raffle winners!

2010-09-23T09:16:00.002-05:00

Bags and Books: Bobbi Tisher, Sarah Turner, Tanya Thoman, Joan Koelsch and Kelley Kinzik

Books: Dawn Lemon, Merritt Scott Collins, Suzanne Sullivan??(guest), Suzanne Hueng, Brenda, Diane Dinisky, Sue (guest), Kathleen Heinlein, Dawn Jenson and Lois.

We do great raffles. Can't wait til October!

September Meeting Notes

2010-09-16T14:20:00.002-05:00

The September meeting was a great kick-off to the year. We had a full house in addition to about 20 guests! We are selling BSKG t-shirts again, you should have gotten an email if you didn't have a chance to sign up at the meeting. Lots of upcoming events - Spinners Flock, Shop Hops in both Lansing and Metro Detroit, Mt. Bruce, the list goes on. The White Scarf/Winter White Charity project is due in October. Keep those needles or hooks flying making scarves, hats and/or mittens for SOS. We displayed the 135 hats we got at Stitch N' Pitch for the homeless vets. We are still looking for more - so if you are willing to make a hat or two, please bring them to the October meeting. The Silent Auction was a great success. We had tons of gorgeous things to bid on, including 2 incredible shawls donated by members! The raffle prizes were great also - lots of books! We signed up for committees; retreat and a new long term planning. Next month's meeting will have a trunk show, nominations for VP and we will explore some techniques, including felted soap - so bring a bar of soap if you want to participate! See you then.

Birthdays and Field Trips

2010-09-01T11:57:00.002-05:00

Wishing a Happy Birthday to our September Sheep: Marilyn Grazioli, Rhys Hunter, Marcia Kaline & Donna Mrozek.

You'll have the chance to sign up for Guild field trips at the September 14 meeting:
Saturday, 9/19 - Spinner's Flock Fall Fleece Fair in Chelsea and/or Saturday-Sunday, 9/25-26 - Mt. Bruce Station Sheep & Wool Festival in Romeo.

Other yarn events this month include: 9/11 - Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario; 9/23-26 - Lansing Shop Hop; and 9/25-26 - Northern Michigan Lamb & Wool Festival at the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds, West Branch.

BSKG meeting coming up!!!

2010-08-24T11:52:00.002-05:00

Do any of the Black Sheep need reminding there’s a meeting coming up? It’s Tuesday, September 14! The meeting is at 7:30, so get there in time to sign in and buy your raffle tickets. Remember, raffle tickets will only be sold from 7-7:30, so don’t wait to buy yours.

There’s a busy year ahead including Trunk Shows, Quarter Hour Quickies with Nancy Brown, speakers, the charity kick-off, Knit Michigan participation, the Sneaky Sheep Swap, our pre-holiday mystery trade, and much more.

The September meeting will include a Silent Auction, sign-up opportunities, and a by-law vote.

Guests – 18 and over! – are invited to attend 2 meetings to get to know us.

Stitch N’ Pitch 2010

2010-08-09T15:50:00.003-05:00

Stitch N' Pitch was a great success. And the Tigers won!! 9-4. We passed out 161 goodie bags and collected 65 hats for homeless vets. The weather was sunny and hot!
Here is a link to the photos

August birthdays

2010-08-02T21:02:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to our August sheep: Barbara Sump, Harriet Atlas, Dawn Lemon, Sally Pituch, and Cecile Scott! Enjoy your day[s].

Picnic

2010-07-09T13:48:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday, June 30 about 7 BSKG members attended a cross-guild picnic sponsored by the Oakland Guild at Firefighters Park in Troy. The weather was cool (hard to believe right now), and there was tons of great food. We had a show and share, and as usual, there were some beautiful items, including the gorgeous shawl, and the entrelac shawl pictured above. The Oakland Guild also had some fabulous door prizes - both Kim and Rita won something. A great time was had by all.

July Birthdays

2010-07-04T15:35:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to our hot July Black Sheep: Sharon Hagen, Colleen Robbins, Joyce Crabtree, and Stacey Totzke. And many s'mores!

Picnic

2010-06-26T13:04:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder, we have been invited to a "cross-guild" picnic by the Oakland Knitting Guild this Wednesday June 30th, 2010 from 4:00-9:00pm. Location is Fire Fighters Park in Troy which is on Square Lake between Crooks and Coolidge (it's big you can't miss it!) they have rented out the pavilion.

They ask that you bring a dish to pass, your own beverage and chair and of course knitting, spinning, show and share etc. (All paper products, cutlery and ice will be provided)

This will be a great opportunity to meet and spend time with other fiber lovers in our area, lots of new fibery friends! Hope to see you there :)

Stitch N' Pitch

2010-06-09T19:46:00.004-05:00

Stitch N’ Pitch is coming!
Sunday Aug. 8th at 1:30
There will be a new twist this year – bring a (winter) hat and be entered to win a fabulous prize! The more hats, the more entries! The hats will be distributed to homeless veterans in the Metro Detroit Area.
This year there WILL be goodie bags.
MORE INFORMATION»

Check our Ravelry group discussion board for information on tickets, we will order as a group, so that we all sit together.

2010-06-06T13:23:00.001-05:00

Hi BSKGrs!

This Tuesday is our First General “open to all” board meeting.
Consider this your invitation if seeing what the board does interests you. It is at the church at our usual meeting time (7:30pm), but not in our usual meeting space, we will be in classroom 1 & 2. (to the left when you come in).

June birthdays and a picnic

2010-06-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to: Coralee Anderson, Linda Irvine, Kelley Kencik, Linda Lutomski, Kelley Andersen, Mary Moylan, Andrea Lafferty, Rachel Lawson, Barbara Murdock and Sarah Turner!

The Oakland Knitting Guild is sponsoring a Knitter's Picnic on Wednesday, June 30, from 4 to 9 at Fire Fighter's Park in Troy. Bring a dish to share, a beverage, a lawn chair, and knitting or spinning. Paper products, cutlery, and ice will be provided.

Retreat memories

2010-05-31T08:40:00.009-05:00

Well, the retreat is over.

Another eagerly anticipated retreat has come and gone. This year, 35 people attended. We laughed, learned new techniques, got to know each other better, and overall had a fantastic time. The setting was nice, the woods and the lake were all that we had hoped for. Even the weather cooperated. The lodge was nice, rooms were more like dorm rooms, but we spent very little time in them. The common room was great – lots of comfy chairs and couches. The area for training was set up to suit our needs. The food was good, and the staff was very accommodating to special dietary needs.

Walks in the woods, a bonfire on the beach Saturday night, classes taught on the beach, kayaking (Tanya brought her kayaks), massages, and a member sale. Goodie bags and door prizes, oh my. What more could a knitter ask for?

We learned how to do mobius, entrelac, double knitting, magic loop, way too many to mention.

We did a bit of shopping in Grayling at Parrots Perch on the way home.

The sheep came along, to help us enjoy the weekend.

Here we are with our retreat SWAG. Fantastic hoodies with the BSKG logo!

The dining room was very rustic.

The sheep take a break from their busy day.

The common area was so comfortable. We had many great conversations here.

Harriet teaching cables w/o needles on Sun am.

Tanya and Merritt kayaking.

The beach was so calm. We had class here Sat afternoon, and the bonfire Sat evening.

here's our cake!

2010-05-28T13:08:00.002-05:00

May meeting

2010-05-19T13:47:00.004-05:00

The May meeting was the end-of-the-year swap/barter/sell meeting. There was a lot of yarn, handmade bags and other handmade goodies, including shawl pins. For the second year in a row my camera died, so we don't have a lot of pictures.

Coffee/tea and dessert was provided by the guild. I loved the mini-eclairs, personally. :-)

If you missed this fun event, be sure you make it next year!

May sheep

2010-05-01T15:40:00.002-05:00

We have a lot of Black Sheep celebrating birthdays this month! Have a Happy Birthday: Barb Boren, Marguerite Winer, Kara Hamilton, Kathleen Hearne, Suzanne Huening, Annette Ervin, Linda Seley, Sue Carter, Katy Race and Betty Mathie!

the Traveling Sheep

2010-04-20T20:34:00.008-05:00

loved their time in Colorado. At The Modern Ewe they played in yarn and met the knit-shop dogs.

One of their many meals out was at the Fresh Fish Company. No lamb on the menu made them very happy!

They climbed the 13 steps at the state capitol to reach one mile above sea level. Then they checked out the views from that altitude.

The rest of the time they lounged about and went out to eat a lot.

April Raffle

2010-04-15T11:03:00.002-05:00

I'm so, so sorry I missed the Sneaky Sheep Swap.... but I'm also sorry I missed another fun raffle.

Sally Pituch, Chris Hamel, Barbara McAuliffe and Dawn Lemon supplied wonderful items won by: Sue Waid - a squeaky pig kit, Rhys Hunter - ribbon yarn kit, Sarah Turner - It Itches, Sharon Hagen - Fabulous Felted Hand Knits, Kathy Pawlik - The Knitting Way and Two Sweaters for My Father, Charli Osborne - yarn and a circular needle, Kathleen [I'm not sure which one] - yarn and books, Sally Pituch - sock yarn, Stacey Totzke - lace knitting kit, and Mimi Lambert - handmade project bag, merino yarn & a 'Soak' sample.

April Showers bring. . .

2010-04-06T16:39:00.002-05:00

April Birthdays!
A very happy birthday to our April members. . .
Chris Hamel, Marie Woodcox, Joan LaForest, Barbara Carter, Charli Osborne, Denise Rubenstein, and Andrea Champagne.

and the Sneaky Sheep Swap v.3
Hopefully all knitting and crafting is coming to a close. . .the meeting is Tuesday, April 13, and is bound to be inspiring when you see all that has been created by members for members!

and Retreat Sponsors
If you haven't done so already, check out the retreat sponsor list to the right. . . in our economy, we've been treated to some extremely generous contributions from local, national, and international businesses. Please remember to support those who support us when you're enhancing your stash.

2010-03-21T20:50:00.001-05:00

Just a quick note to everyone about the retreat. There is only 1, possibly 2 spots left, unless we look into getting more rooms in another bldg!

So if you are thinking about going, now is the time to contact me and get your form in!

Also, don't forget to check the sidebar for names of people who have donated to our retreat so far!!

It's going to be fun! I can't wait till May!

the March raffle

2010-03-19T16:03:00.002-05:00

was filled with wonderful items donated by Linda Lutomski & Laurie Goodman, Paula Kelley - owner of PK Yarn Over Knit, Rita Perrone and Kate Pultz.

The lucky winners were Claudia - a Clinique bag with yarn and a pattern, Stacy - Baby Knits kit, Diane - sock kit, Charlie - Dolly Bag kit, Kathleen - black sheep case and a black sheep ornament kit, Rachel - the book "Three Bags Full", Dana - a gift basket,Nancy - the book "It Itches", Kate - a yarn bowl, Linda D - "Big Needle Knitting", Dawn - 2 books and lace patterns, Sue - 2 skeins of sock yarn and a shawl pin, Opal - 2 skeins of sock yarn and a shawl pin, and Heather - the book "All New Homespun Handknit" and a shawl pin.

March madness continued...

2010-03-14T12:20:00.012-05:00

On Saturday more than 20 members of BSKG made the trip to the Detroit Public Library to hear the Yarn Harlot ~ Stephanie Pearl-McPhee ~ speak. Our very own Kelley Kencil planned the event. Vendors were set up at 11 to sell their wares, including two of our own: Tanya with lots of her goodies, plus hand-dyed yarn by LindLu. Stephanie had us all laughing out loud! She is a funny lady and a great knitter!

March madness

2010-03-14T12:08:00.005-05:00

It all started with our March guild meeting. As usual we had [lots of] wonderful raffle items... which I didn't get the list of. :-( Two lucky winners won free retreat trips, too. Joan Sheridan, owner of Heritage Spinning & Weaving, was our guest speaker. She taught us about Rigid Heddle Weaving showing us how to do it and some results.

lots of March lambs

2010-03-01T17:50:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to all the March lambs: Pat Baker, Kim Whelan, Suzanne Jones, Sue Waid, Judith Davis, Linda Dean, Kathleen Pawlik, Kim Thorsen, Ellen Rancilio and Laurie Goodman.

For those that weren't at Panera a couple of weeks ago - here's a darling baby blanket Laurie made!

2010-02-14T13:55:00.000-05:00

We are sorry to report that there will be no rescheduling of the February Guild meeting; we are not able to use the church this week, and anything later would get too close to the next meeting.

Since we had such fun things planned, we are going to simply drop this meeting in it's entirety into the October 2010 slot!

The only things that will not be held off are Nancy Browns mini lesson and the Retreat Admission Raffle; both of these will take place at the March meeting, so bring your knitting ready to learn the Kitchner Stitch and bring extra cash to buy a chance to win a BSKG Retreat admission!!!

Kim and Rita

BSKG meeting cancelled

2010-02-09T15:05:00.001-05:00

Looking at the snow coming down, it's been decided to cancel tonight's BSKG meeting. While getting there would be OK, it might be difficult when it's time to leave

Kim & Rita are looking at a new date; possibly next week. We'll let you know!

yarn bouquets

2010-02-03T09:12:00.004-05:00

to our February birthday sheep: Adina Rubenstein, Jodi dietz, Diane Dininsky, Merritt Collins, Valerie Greenberg, Kate Pultz, and Heather Perrone. Happy Birthday!

Don't forget... our BSKG meeting is Tuesday, February 9, at 7:30.

Fun, funky & functional?

2010-01-30T10:53:00.003-05:00

Link for picking up dropped stitches

2010-01-20T21:04:00.000-05:00

Here is the link for picking up dropped stitches

http://www.jimmybeanswool.com/secure-html/onlineec/instructionalArticle.asp?iaid=23

NOTE: this method results in a twisted stitch, so you must untwist it.
If you don't want a twisted stitch, when picking up the ladder yarn - insert the needle from front to back, not from behind as the instructions state.

2010-01-16T21:08:00.006-05:00

Sorry about the wait, here are the links for the i-cord cast on and bind-off (scroll down)

and the step-by-step directions for picking up a dropped stitch without a crochet hook:

Stop in the row you are knitting at the location directly above the dropped stitch—where the stitch should be on your needles
Insert the tip of your left hand needle into the loop from the dropped stitch from front to back. Make sure the right leg of the stitch is in front so that the stitch isn’t twisted.
Place the yarn from the row directly above the dropped stitch on the left needle to the right of the picked up loop.
Use your right hand needle to pass the stitch over the yarn you just placed on the left hand needle.
Repeat until you have come up to the row that you are currently knitting on. Make sure you pick up the dropped strands in the correct order.

Also, anyone who needs a registration form for the 2010 retreat, e-mail your request and we will e-mail one back to you!

changing of the guard...

2010-01-13T19:03:00.008-05:00

We've just completed a fun year with Kate & Kim at the helm. Last night we transitioned to Kim & Rita as our leaders. We were taught an I-cord cast on by Kim and an I-cord bind off by Kate. In between, Rita showed us how to repair a dropped stitch using our knitting needles.

I'm constantly amazed by the talent and generosity of the BSKG. Sue Waid, our Trunk Show presenter this month showed us items including hats, scarves, shawls, afghans, sweater and stuffed animals. I loved the dog!
As for generosity, Judith collected over 50 hats for SOS - lots of styles & colors. Some of them are pictured here. She had four items for a thank you drawing for contributing members.

The generosity continued with Heather Perrone, Barbara Burt, Rhys Hunter, Suzanne Jones, Nancy Brown, and Stacey Totzke providing raffle items this month - and there were a bunch! The lucky winners were: Adina Rubenstein - Stitch n Bitch Book on CD, Chris Hamel - a mitten kit, Kathy Pawlik - a sweater stone and soap, Barbara Burt - a yarn keeper, Sharon Hagen - jumbo needles and book, Linda Dean - a book, JoEllen Smith - Lexie Barnes laptop case & magazines, 2 books & a journal to Joyce Crabtree, Joan Koelsch - a knitting bag with a satchel pattern and yarn,Linda, one of our new members - wicker basket & napkin rings, Mary Moylan - a reversible cable scarf kit, Sarah Turner - needle felting embellishing kit, Kate Pulta - Brea bag kit, Sue Waid - knitting journal & Sweater Wizard software, Michelle Dagenais - Knitting to go, and Dawn Lemon - a needle case & a pattern.

As if that weren't enough, Diane Dininsky won the Knit Michigan marathoner ticket

And 3 women joined the BSKG!!!

new LYS

2010-01-06T13:39:00.003-05:00

A new yarn shop has opened! PK Yarn Over Knit is located at 32 South Main Street, in Clawson... that's in the first block south of 14 Mile, on the west side of Main Street. The phone is 248-808-6630.

The GRAND OPENING is Friday and Saturday, January 15-16, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Stop by and enter a drawing to win a sweater kit from Skacel, bag of yarn from Brown Sheep and other items. Two names will be chosen each day and the winners will be notified via email.

January meeting

2010-01-06T08:47:00.000-05:00

It's time to start a New Year and we have lots of fun things coming up! The next BSKG meeting is Tuesday January 12th at 7:30pm. Make sure you bring extra cash because in addition to the regular raffle, we have the special Knit Michigan Raffle (tickets are $5.00 each). Win a ticket, valued at $90-$110, to be a Knit Michigan Marathoner!

Don't forget to bring in your charity projects, due this meeting. Judith will be handing out tickets as you drop off your hats for a chance at one of four beautiful prizes as a thank-you for your time and effort!
The Program this Month is our annual Cast On/Bind Off with a changing of the guard. Bring a size 7 16" circular and size 7 DPN (or just the DPNs if you prefer) and about 100yds of worsted weight if you want to work on a cute headband. (If you just want to learn the techniques just bring the yarn and needles)
The Member Trunk show this month features Sue Waid; we are excited to see what she brings to show us. We also will be announcing the particulars of the S3.3 [Sneaky Sheep Swap] and how to sign up. And finally, we'll be rolling out the 2010 Retreat information.
Whew, I think that's enough! See you there!

2010-01-02T21:29:00.010-05:00

Hats, hats, and more hats. It was a decorating frenzy at Coralee's. Even the traveling sheep helped. The hats will be at Amicis' soon, waiting to be auctioned off to benefit the South Oakland Shelter. Let's hope a lot of people try to outbid each other!!!

Happy Birthday to the New Years sheep: Eileen Patra, Linda Francisco, Nancy Brown, Kathy Conley and Valerie Lightbody.

The Sheep Go to Canada

2009-12-23T14:23:00.003-05:00

Last November, the sheep had a chance to do a litter international traveling. They went to Kitchener, Ontario to see a figure skating competition. Skate Canada International is one of a series of international competitions held each year. This year it was a chance to see an Olympic program in person (without paying Olympic prices!).
The sheep had a chance to meet some other skating fans. Some are more involved with the sport than others! And they were inspired by all the figure skating!

2009-12-20T22:00:00.000-05:00

Don’t know if you all remember (or were at the guild meeting) but December 29 we’re getting together to embellish some felted hats to auction at Amici’s in Berkley. The proceeds from the silent auction will benefit SOS!
Coralee will host us at her new abode.

So, what to bring?anything to embellish a forest green, wool, cloche style hat.leftover food that you’d like to share (or make something new and tasty, we’re not fussy)A comfy chair to sit in, she’s not furnished quite yet!Your knitting, for when we’re done embellishing! There are so many ways to make these hats special…needle felting, embroidery, flowers (silk, knitted, crocheted), ribbons, buttons…you name it! Let’s get creative and inspire each other to new heights!! Katy R has already been seen stocking up on supplies… Judith has a number of ribbon flowers that she’s planning to use…what will you use?

we are soooo talented!

2009-12-15T11:59:00.008-05:00

Charli had an amazing *trunk show*. She has done it all from socks to sweaters to shawls/wraps/ponchos and more! The yarns she uses cover a wide spectrum and she's not afraid to experiment.

Other Black Sheep showed off some of their recently finished items, too.

Suzanne Jones, Joan Koelsch, Sharon Hagen, City Knits and Chris Hamel provided raffle item. The lucky winners were: Linda Francisco - a basketful of sweater yarn & pattern, Marie Woodcox - bag of cotton yarn & pattern, new member Denise Rubenstein - a year of Interweave Knits, Kim Whelan - blue sock yarn & pattern, Harriet Atlas - Autumn sock yarn & pattern, Laurie Goodman - knitting needle case, Mary Moylan - sterling silver earrings, Katie Race - the BSKG thong, Marcia Kaline - purse kit, Tanya Thomann - gift bag & City Knits coupon book, and Kathleen Hearne - Christmas cookbook.

December meeting

2009-12-03T14:13:00.000-05:00

Our next meeting is upon us! Tuesday December 8th, doors open at 7:00 pm. This meeting is all about those pesky scraps of yarn you have left over after you finish a project. Turn all those little, partial skeins into cute projects! We are going to KAL featuring 3 different projects so bring the following supplies to participate (or simply knit along on your own WIP)

Project 1. Size 7 or 8 circular needle in at least a 32" length; various worsted weight scraps
Project 2. Size 9 needle and a size h crochet hook (optional); 2 colors of worsted weight acrylic or cotton yarn scraps
Project 3. Size 1 double point needles; sock (fingering weight ) yarn scraps

See You There!

PS. Bring the supplies for one, two or all three projects and decide which one you want to work on when you get there!

Charity Knitting Update!

2009-11-30T05:00:00.002-05:00

Hi, Tanya here. . .posting on behalf of Judith

We've already started to have some of the hats turned back in, and they look FABULOUS!!! Thank you so much for donating your time and skills. It's truly amazing to be a part of such a talented and generous group of knitters. Next time you're at a meeting or social knitting gathering, turn to your neighbor and tell them what a jewel they are. The items we've knit for charity have touched hundreds of lives. . .I can't begin to imagine the miles of yarn that has been donated, knit or crocheted and now warms the lives of others. Thank you seems so inadequate.

Just when we thought our charity knitting yarn stash was getting low, we received a HUGE donation of yarn and other goodies!! As you create for gifts this holiday season, consider knitting an extra hat, scarf or pair of mittens for the South Oakland Shelter. (Check out the link, they have need of many things you may be able to donate.) If you're in need of yarn, we've got you covered. Should you want another hat kit, please leave a comment here on the blog and we'll make sure to bring some extras to the next guild meeting.

Some of the things we were given needs someone special for it to be put to good use. Do you love to knit with fingering yarn? Have an idea for a project that can use it up and help others? We have a box full of it just waiting for you! Do you have a use for acrylic rug yarn? Maybe to join Ewe-nique Knits' project of knitting for the Royal Oak Animal Shelter? We have a box with your name on it! We have two afghans that just need seaming together. . .two wool sweaters just shy of completion. . .and LOTS of acrylic yarn. Please contact Judith or post a comment here if you think you can help us out. Seriously--Judith needs some knitters to take on these projects so she can find her spare bedroom again! It's THAT MUCH YARN!! As soon as items are knit, she washes them and donates them, so the sooner you knit it up, the sooner it helps others.

In the charity theme, put Tuesday, December 29 on your calendar. I'm not revealing all of the details now, but it will be a fun time you won't want to miss out on. No cost, skill building, social, fiber related. . .what more could you ask for? More details to come at the December guild meeting. Stay tuned!

One more reminder: If you're not on Ravelry, consider joining. It's free, and is a quick and easy way to communicate with other guild members--look for the Black Sheep Knitting Guild Group. There are hundreds of free patterns just ripe for charity knitting--do check it out!

from Sharon

2009-11-19T21:10:00.003-05:00

For Rebecca

2009-11-15T11:30:00.002-05:00

and anyone else that is interested in joining us... you can come to our guild meeting [shown above] twice as a guest to get to know us. Or you can join us at a Panera for social knitting.

the yarn was flying

2009-11-13T13:38:00.002-05:00

and so were Black Sheep as we enjoyed our mystery brown bag trade at the Guild meeting. Members chose new brown bags or stole one from another member... and re-stole and re-stole.....
I wish I had a video of the silliness!

Suzanne Jones presented the trunk show. She is so talented! Hats & bags & sweaters galore.... she is so talented.

Judith Davis, our charity coordinator, had hat kits for all to take home. Our focus this year is hats for kids; this is not to say she won't accept other items. So get busy knitting.

Charli Osborne, Suzanne Jones, Marguerite Winer, Merritt Collins and Kathy Pawlik provided this month's raffle items. We had a lot of happy winners: Donna Mrozek - cotton sock yarn, Kelly Kencik - 9 skeins ribbon yarn, Linda Dean - Heritage hand-dyed bulky yarn, Sue Waid - sweet summer sock kit, Heather Perrone - a book & yarn, Dawn Jenson - Upstairs shawl kit, Kelley Andersen - a book & cotton yarn, Diane Dininsky - a book & silk/wool yarn, Joyce Crabtree - Fleece Artist Thrum sock kit, Laurie Goodman - Free Formations book, Cecile Scott - quilted humbug bag, and Linda Lutomski - Happy Feet sock yarn.

After all that, we cast votes for our new V.P. and for by-law changes. Stay tuned for results.

it's November

2009-11-02T12:27:00.002-05:00

and time to say Happy Birthday to Toni Loiacano, Barbara McAuliffe, Rita Perrone and Erika Proschkow. Tanya too, I believe, though she doesn't seem to want to tell us.

Welcome to our new members that joined us last month!... Kara Hamilton, Dawn Jensen, Joan LaForest, Ellen Rancilo, Adina Rubenstein, Cecile Scott and Marie Woodcox. I think that sets a record for new joins at one time!

Linda F

whoops!

2009-10-16T19:49:00.007-05:00

I don't know why these pictures aren't in the previous post
... but here they are:

what a busy night at the October meeting!!

2009-10-16T19:12:00.010-05:00

We enjoyed a beautiful trunk show by Erica Proschkow ~ what great examples of her beautiful work! From her first knitting - of doll clothes - to the weaving with Siberian iris leaves and all the gorgeous knitting in between it was definitely exciting and inspiring.

A big thanks to Michele Dagenais, Diane Dinisky,
Suzanne Jones and Charli Osborne for donating terrific raffle items! The luck recipients were Kara Hamilton - yarn and a handmade bag, Merritt Collins [forgive me, I don't remember the 2nd part of your last name] - sock yarn, Adina Rubenstein - sock yarn, Joan LaForest - sock yarn, Kathleen Hearne - a knitting book, Linda Francisco - sock yarn and a hat pattern, Kate Pulta - sock yarn, and Katy Race - yarn and knitting magazines.

Lori Sheffield of Skeins on Main gets a big thank you for sharing the fall trends with us. Everyone enjoyed trying on the Origami sweater ~ we know it will soon be on many BSKG member's needles!

Designers that sparked interest: Candace Eisner Strick - merging colors. http://www.strickwear.com; Hanne Falkenberg http://knit.dk [she designed the geometric striped wrap from Erika's trunk show]. You can order through the website or support your LYS and special order from them.

Upcoming events: October 24-25 - 3rd annual Fiber Expo in Ann Arbor, www.fiberexpo.com
November 14 - 2009 Shop Hop. You can sign up for carpooling at the Nov. guild meeting.

Next month is the Mystery Brown Bag Swap ~ bring a knitting related item [up to $10] in a plain brown bag [or gussy it up if you're compelled to!] and we'll have fun swapping & trading! Just some of the fun being a BSKG member!

Next month is also the charity kick off. There will be kits and charity yarn available to help you help others.

If all that's not enough... we have 3 nominees for Vice President! Rita Perrone, Kelley Anderson & Charli Osborne are all great candidates... so get ready to ponder who will be the one this year!

October meeting...

2009-10-06T09:25:00.001-05:00

Our October meeting is Tuesday, October 13, at St. Columban in Birmingham.

IMPORTANT CHANGE: Beginning with the October meeting, we cannot enter the church until after 7 p.m.

If you arrive before 7 p.m., you will need to wait in your car—we need to be sure that we do not interfere with the group that will be in the church before us, and give them time to finish and leave before we enter.

So! Now the doors will open after 7 p.m.,you can check in, buy raffle tickets, and socialize a bit before the meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.

October program: Lori Sheffield, co-owner of Skeins on Main in Rochester, is our guest speaker. She will be highlighting fall yarn trends, sharing what is new and exciting in the world of fiber. October will also kickoff our member trunk shows.

We want to thank and welcome the members who volunteered to fill the positions we need—their contributions and help will be vital to the guild!
• Part of the Secretarial Team—Katy R.
• Raffle Coordinator—Suzanne J.
• BSKG Merchandise Manager—Merritt S-C.
• Web Master—still open
• Tech/Hardware Manager—still open
• Field Trip Committee Member—Debbie M. and Diane D.
• Retreat Committee Volunteers—Heather P., Sue W., Barbara B.

We need Vice President nominees! We will be asking for nominations at the October meeting! Consider the position for yourself, or think about who you feel would best fit the position and see if they are willing to accept the nomination.

Can’t wait to see everyone on Tuesday, October 13! Oh, and remember to wear your name tags!

October birthdaygreetings to Barbara Burt, Lillian Molitz and our Halloween sheep Katy Race and Sue Chase!!!

the September meeting

2009-09-10T13:18:00.007-05:00

was a great time to renew friendships and see everyone's projects!

it's really September!

2009-09-02T13:41:00.010-05:00

Our kickoff guild meeting is Tuesday, September 8, at St. Columban in Birmingham.

The doors open at 6:30 pm, so you can check in, buy raffle tickets, and
socialize a bit before the meeting which starts at 7 pm. Don't forget to wear
your name tags! : ) Should you find yourself sitting next to a new member
or guest, please make them feel as welcomed as you did at your first meeting.

We have set our calendar for the year--we’ve got some great programs and
plans that you’re sure to enjoy. Bring your calendar so you can make plans
for some exciting field trips.

We will be asking for some members to take a more active roll in the
guild — we have a variety of positions that need filling. This is an
opportunity for you to step up and feel the satisfaction and energy of
being a vital part of the workings of the guild.
Think about joining us as
• Part of the Secretary Team
• Raffle Coordinator
• BSKG Merchandise Manager
• Web Master
• Tech/Hardware Manager
• Field Trip Committee Member
• Retreat Committee Member

Also at the September meeting we will be talking about the opportunity
to run for Vice President ~ an excellent way to be involved in the
excitement of the guild, in making the guild a great place for all
knitters. September is the time to ask us questions and to hear a bit
more about what the Vice President position means;we will be asking
for nominations at the October meeting. Consider the position for
yourself, or think about who you feel would best fit the position and
see if they are willing to accept the nomination.

Happy September birthday to Marilyn Grazioli, Rhys Hunter,
Marcia Kaline and Katie Tenbrink.

Here's a request passed on by a member:
"Volunteers are needed to make scarves that will be given as gifts of warmth and love to the over 500 people, many homeless, who join parishioners for the Annual Christmas Day Feast at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Detroit (Episcopal). Will you help us please? Knit, Crochet, Sew, Weave -- all handmade scarves are welcome. "Help us wrap our guests in warmth." Please pass the word. Scarves should be unisex in color/pattern, approximately 6" x 60". No "fun fur" please, no lace scarves -- many of the guests are men and they'd appreciate something more dignified."
Ask Rita any questions. She will collect any scarves you want to donate.

summer knitters

2009-08-20T21:19:00.006-05:00

Kerknit -aka Luke - popped in at Panera on Monday to join the knitters there. His mom, Kim, came along for the fun.

Looks like a lot of *stash enhancement* was acquired at the Mich Fiber Fest! Sally was spotted lusting after yarn with the traveling sheep looking on.

After a fun day LindaLu, Sally, Kathleen & Aunt Joyce, Harriet, and the sheep spent time nibbling & knitting in the hotel lobby.

greetings while on vacation

2009-08-02T16:57:00.003-05:00

I haven't seen LindaLu out here in Colorado. :-(

I did, however, have lunch with a friend who is a knitter and a lover of horror movies. When I said something about the BSKG she said she'd seen a movie the night before from New Zealand.... the name is Black Sheep. Might be something we need to check out. Here is what it's about: "An experiment in genetic engineering turns harmless sheep into blood-thirsty killers that terrorize a sprawling New Zealand farm."

Speaking of Black Sheep, happy birthday to our August-born members: Barbara Sump, Harriet Atlas, Dawn Lemon and Sally Pituch.

Linda F.

CHANGE OF VENUE: BSKG 1st Annual Picnic/Knit In/Knit Out

2009-07-14T10:45:00.003-05:00

NEW VENUE:

STARR PARK 13 Mile Rd just east of Crooks, in Royal Oak.

The pavilion has probably been rented so we will just set up in an open area. Look for the "green chairs"

It has been long-discussed and *suddenly* decided upon!

This Saturday, July 18, at 1 pm (rain date Sunday, July 19) BSKG members will meet for an afternoon of knitting & food.

** Original plan was Shain Park in Birmingham...we now hear that the park is under construction and closed. Please check back here...a new location will be selected shortly!

Bring your knitting, bring a chair/blanket, bring food or drink if you want.

Any questions? Leave a comment & someone will get back to you pronto!

Stitch N' Pitch

2009-07-09T21:22:00.001-05:00

Rita Perrone talked to Gary at the Tigers office and he has plenty of tickets. The date for getting money to Rita, Heather, Kate or Harriet is now July 22nd.

Tickets are $15, with a one time fee of $6. The extra $6 can be divided amongpeople going.

BAD NEWS - no goodie bags this year. Rita talked to the people at City Knits and the participating stores are not providing goodie bags.

Be sure to get your ticket order in by July 22. If you want to carpool from Anderson Middle School tell Rita, Heather, Kate or Harriet.

Linda F.

The BSKG Board met...

2009-07-02T17:56:00.011-05:00

this week. Here we are, hard at work.

We talked about a BSKG picnic, Stitch n' Pitch, and other fun ideas for the guild.

This year Stitch n' Pitch is August 30 at 1PM. The Tigers play the Tampa Devil Rays. This is an "unofficial" event and you need to buy your own tickets. You can find a store selling them here:
http://www.e-offinger.net/tnna/public/retail_search.cfm

Happy Birthday to July lambs: Joyce Crabtree, Sharon Hagen, Colleen Robbins,
Helen Taylor and Carrie Jones.

KIP - Shain Park

2009-06-23T10:48:00.005-05:00

Nice temperature. Lovely breeze. Great people/dog watching. Four knitters did our part to KIP.

Tanya wants me to remind you to work on premie caps to give Judith in September!

more KIP!

2009-06-16T21:06:00.003-05:00

If you check this out http://www.wwkipday.com/date_change.htm you'll see that
world-wide Knitting in Public is continuing through this week-end. In that spirit
some knitters are meeting at Shain Park, in Birmingham, at 1:00 this Saturday.
Here are directions: http://www.scleroderma.org/Chapter/michigan/directions_shainpark.htm

Look for us near a bench ~ be sure to bring your BSKG chairs!

Edited to add: if it's raining, we're welcome to go to the Oak Park Library....as long
as we don't create a big scene. :-)

2009-06-12T13:17:00.002-05:00

I'd love to say something definite about world-wide Knit in Public day,
but I'm thinking it's going to be kind of up-in-the-air as to the final spot
for BSKGers. Around 1, in front of ...have you any wool? seems to be
where people are meeting. Just be sure to look for the BSKG lime green
chairs! And have fun.