Sometimes I find myself humming the Sinatra version of the tune "I've Got the World on a String" when I think about designing. That song quite literally reflects how I feel about designing knitting patterns--like I'm the luckiest girl in the world to get to do something I love so much for a living. I've talked to a lot of knitwear designers about this and it seems that the feeling is pretty mutual across the board. We love what we do. Not to mention that we have an obsession with string...really pretty string. I guess a lot of knitters do, it's a pretty common affliction.

So to give you a sneak peak, here are some of the "pretty strings" I am planning to and am excited to design with over the next few months:

Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted:

Their slogan is "We make pretty string." Fitting, eh?

Swans Island Bulky:

Organic and naturally dyed merino wool. Yum.

Zealana Rimu DK:

Awesome possum!

Spud and Chloe Sweater:

The perfect sweatshirt sweater would be made from this yarn...

Rowan Softknit Cotton:

Deliciously soft cotton anyone?

Bijou Basin Ranch Bliss:

50/50 Yac and Cormo Wool. Rustic, soft, AND beautiful... also, it's dyed by Lorna's Laces. :)

So these are the yarns on MY list to work with! What's on yours? Better yet, what would you like to see a Free Pattern for here at Jimmy Beans? What yarn would you like to see featured? I would love to hear your suggestions!

Happy knitting everyone!
Kristen

The Wool Watcher Puppy never barks or whines, but now he Tweets! That's right, you can follow Wool Watcher on Twitter for instantaneous updates on the latest discounted yarns and items posted to WW! If you are already on Twitter and would like to add us to your feed just search "woolwatcher" (all one word). Not a member of Twitter? Sign up for a piece of the action at Twitter.com -it's free and a great way to keep up with the latest JBW news as well as Wool Watcher deals! Note: our Jimmy Beans Wool Twitter feed is separate from the Wool Watcher feed, so be sure to follow both!

Even puppies like them!

Room for everything!

Now onto the new in-store stuff! Bethany has been singing praises for the new Bitty Bags from Namaste ever since she bought one a couple weeks ago. Trendy and compact, these purses are flawlessly functional without sacrificing an ounce of style. Seriously, these classy bags have no drawbacks except that once you have one, you just might want another :) The Bitty Bag interior features easy organization with open-top pockets and elastic straps for keeping all your necessities in place as well as 2 zippered pockets; one on the inside and one on the outside!

Kristen already introduced you to the latest issue of Knitscene Magazine in her last post, but I couldn't help reiterate how awesome it is! This particular publication is overflowing with gorgeous patterns from the twisty texture of the Tosh Sock Bas-Relief Socks, to the colorful Mette-Marit Pullover knit in luxurious Rowan Belle Organic DK, to the all-seasons Belvedere Cardigan. Knit in sumptuous Sweater from Spud and Chloe, Belvedere is a lacy, relaxed cardi perfect for layering and looks great year-round!

Sweater - Barn

Speaking of Sweater, there are three new bright new colors now available in this machine-washable wool and organic cotton blend: Igloo, Barn and Waterslide! Sweater wears great and only gets softer the more you wash it, making it the perfect medium for knits that will be much loved and worn often! If that isn't reason enough to work with this fabulous yarn, for a limited time a free pattern will be included with any order for Spud And Chloe's Sweater yarn! I don't know about you, but I'm a fanatical free pattern enthusiast -especially for the cute, stylish designs like the ones from Blue Sky Alpacas and Spud And Chloe :)


One more thing I can't help but mention: Wisteria, a new patter from Knitting At Knoon! This smart little number is knit in one of my favorite fibers, Plymouth's Taria Tweed! Of course you can opt for any heavy worsted weight yarn and still get stunning results :) The Wisteria Vest is great for layering during transitional seasons and can be appreciated by both the trend-savvy businesswoman and hip coffee shop crowd!


Enjoy the rest of your week and happy knitting and crocheting!
Leanne :)