Showing posts with label alana Dakos. Show all posts
Showing posts with label alana Dakos. Show all posts

Never Not Knitting AND Kelbourne Woolens Baby Collection Trunk Shows now in the shop!!!

by : Unknown


It was love at first sight when we first received Never Not Knitting patterns by Alana Dakos several years ago!  Her thoughtfully designed, classic styles for women & children are elegant and universally appealing. The printed patterns are lovely to look at and well written.  We've had Coastal knits trunk shows in the past but this is the first time we've had a Never Not Knitting trunk show!
 Stop by the shop if you can and take a look!  And yes, they are as soft to touch as they look!
 Katlyn looks so sunny and warm in this Cedar Leaf Shawlette!  This one is knit up in Malabrigo Silky Merino in color 405 - Sand.








Erika & JenA are snug and warm in these lofty hats, Winter Trails in Malabrigo Worsted and Cloudy Days in Blue Sky Alpaca Sportweight!
Jenny just loves the Cream & Sugar Cowl in Malabrigo Sock and the Plum Tree Slouch hat.  She will stay plenty warm out in the warehouse in this pair!
Terry has had the Shawl Collared Cowl pattern and the Misti Alpaca Chunky in her stash for a while now and thinks she needs to get on the ball and get it worked up!
This adorable little girl's sweater is called Sheepish! Wouldn't it make a wonderful gift for that special little someone?

Last but not least is this adorable little shrug called Chloe knit up in Spud & Chloe Sweater


The other trunk show currently in the shop is Kelbourne Woolens Baby Collection. We have so many wonderful garments in the shop you're sure to find lots of ideas for all those babies that have been cropping up everywhere! The sizes range from newborn to 24 months.

 The entire Kelbourne Baby Collections is knit up in yarns from The Fibre Company!  So soft!!!

These adorable vests are Harold (on the left) knit up in Tundra and Mildred (on the right) worked in Terra
This is Colette knit up in Road to China Light!
 
 Clarence are fun little hand warmers and Florence is a pretty set of hat and booties both knit up in Canopy (which we don't currently carry).
Cecile knit up in Terra & Beatrix in Acadia are two of the most adorable sweaters!
That lovely blanket in the back ground is Basil in Canopy.  The diaper covers are called Darling and the onesie is Nellie.

 We hope to see you in the shop but if you can't make it in just let us know any questions you have.

 The Retail Team - Gus, JenA, Jill, & Terry


 
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Botanical Knits is Here!

by : KristenJBW
For months we've waited with needles at the ready for the release of Alana Dakos' latest book, Botanical Knits, and now the printed copies are finally here! Botanical Knits is a collection of 12 knitting patterns inspired by nature. Each design very much embodies Alana's personal style, and is uniquely beautiful with various leaf and floral motifs. 

 Alana, of Never Not Knitting blog and podcast fame, has been creating beautiful designs for years and is most known for her independently released patterns in her Never Not Knitting line, as well as  the book Coastal Knits which she released in 2011 with Hannah Fettig.

 Botanical Knits, her first self-published collection entirely her own, is a true testament to her talent and knack for beautiful design. Each pattern is photographed beautifully and is complete with both written and charted directions. What is nice is that Alana also recommends alternative yarns for each of her patterns, making it easy to find a substitute and give you more options.

 Here are some of my personal favorites from the book:
Pressed Leaves Beret

Twigs and Willows Cardigan

Wrapped in Leaves Shawlette

Forest Floor Tam

Autumn's Ends Pullover

 This is only a small sampling of the lovely designs in the book--there are so many that I want to make! At Jimmy Beans, we loved each and every design so much, that we made kits for each one. Check them out if you are thinking about making something. Botanical Knits is also available as an e-book directly from Alana, so if you prefer to download it instead, feel free to check out that option. I kinda love how a book feels in the hand so I'll be taking a copy home with me today! 

 In any case, Botanical Knits is definitely worth checking out for yourself. It's a beautifully done book that makes a wonderful addition to your knitting library (and mine too!)

 Happy knitting!
Kristen 
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Coastal Knits Trunk Show is in the shop!

by : MarinadeDesigns
Hi everyone! I just wanted to pop in for a quick second and let everyone know that the Coastal Knits trunk show is here at Jimmy Beans Wool! It will be on display in our shop until December 21st. If you are a local customer or will be in the area, please stop by and check it out!

Coastal Knits is a beautiful book featuring designs by Hannah Fettig of Knitbot and Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting! This collection is inspired by their different coastal homes: Portland, ME and Atascadero, CA. To see some of the stunning designs from the book in person, be sure to swing by the shop while it is here! Here is a little sneak peek:

"Wildflower Cardigan"

"Gnarled Oak Cardigan" and
"Branching Out Mitts"

"Sand and Sea Shawlette"

"Rocky Coast Cardigan"

"Panoramic Stole"

Hope to see you all in the shop soon!

Happy Knitting!
Kristen

Have you seen our latest catalog yet? It’s 48 pages of pure, 100% Rowan.Visit jimmybeanswool.com/catalog to sign up for your free copy!

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Never Not Knitting's Alana Dakos on "Coastal Knits" and the Giveaway winner!

by : MarinadeDesigns
 Happy Wednesday everyone!  I hope you are all having a fabulous week filled with wondrous knitting and crocheting adventures!  As promised, I have the other half of our “Coastal Knits” interviews and also the winner of our giveaway!  But first, I introduce to you Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting, as well as co-author of “Coastal Knits” with Hannah Fettig of Knitbot, whom we interviewed last week.  Here is what Alana had to say about the book:
JBW- Last week we heard Hannah’s perspective on “Coastal Knits,” what does Coastal Knits represent for you?
    AD- Coastal Knits is an inspiration-based compilation of patterns. I feel that it is a very personal collection because each design reflects our personal design style and is based on our specific coastal regions. It isn't just a pattern book, it's the story of us.. where we come from and how our surroundings inspire us. 
    Rustling Leaves Beret
    JBW-  I love that I can see that in the different designs from each of you.  It’s like you can see the difference in the coasts through the knitted pieces, yet they all go together so well and tell your stories cohesively.  We are so excited to get the Coastal Knits Trunk show in the shop at JBW in December so we can see them all in person!  So, tell us a bit about Never Not Knitting, how did you get started on the designing path?

    AD- I blog and host a podcast under the name of Never Not Knitting. There is even a "Never Not Knitting" theme song! Link: http://nevernotknitting.blogspot.com/2008/06/never-not-knitting-theme-song.html. It all started as a household joke a few years back when my husband would always complain about how much time I spent knitting. I started the blog and podcast under that name over 3 years ago just for fun. I didn't realize that it would also someday be the name of my business!

    After working for several years as a knitting instructor, I decided to branch out and try my hand at knitwear design as a nice change of pace. I started out small, publishing pattern pdfs on my blog. I initially focused on children's patterns. My daughter was then 3 years old and I was really having a blast designing her little outfits. I wasn't sure if this venture would go anywhere, but I sure am glad that it did! Now a few years later, we are running a full time pattern business out of our home. I am so happy to be working doing something that I enjoy. Being a knitwear designer full time is challenging, but definitely fun.. and my husband no longer complains about how much time I spend knitting! :)
    Cambrian Cowl
    JBW- Now that Coastal Knits is completed what's next?
      AD- I have many ideas for future design projects, but honestly, the next big project that I will be taking on is the arrival of our baby boy in November! After working so hard on the book, I look forward to taking some time off to spend with the family and getting to know this new little one. 
      JBW-  Congrats!  That is so exciting!  What a good plan.  Perhaps we’ll be seeing some new designs for little ones in the future with new inspiration ahead. :)  While we are still on the topic of designing, as an independent designer, do you have any advice for those folks out there who are just starting to design as well? 
        AD- My motto has always been.. "You can achieve anything with hard work and perseverance." I think that a new designer shouldn't be afraid to put themselves out there and just try. And things don't happen over night. It takes patience, but eventually you will be rewarded for your hard work.
        JBW-  Is there anything else you want to tell us about your current projects?
          Gnarled Oak
          Cardigan
          Wildflower Cardigan
          AD-  I am very excited about the patterns included in Coastal Knits. I am usually inspired by nature, and I love to incorporate botanical elements into my design work.  For instance, one of my favorite designs for the book is my Gnarled Oak cardigan. The sweater itself is based on an ancient oak forest near where I live. I enjoyed trying to capture the essence of these old, twisted up trees into the design and I love the way it ended up turning out.  The Gnarled Oak and Wildflower Cardigans for Coastal Knits were my first attempts at adult sweater design. It was a fun challenge for me! 
          JBW-  Ok, so now for some fun and somewhat silly questions!  Inquiring minds want to know:
          Where did you grow up?
            AD-  I grew up right here on the Central Coast of California. It's really a gorgeous place to live. My parents moved our family here from the Los Angeles, CA area when I was very small and I am really glad they did. My husband also grew up here and we met when I was 5 and he was 7. Our families still live in the same houses we grew up in and now our daughter is attending the same elementary school that my husband did. :) I love this area, and I love our community. I would never want to move. 
            JBW-  What time do you start work each day?
              AD-  As soon as I wake up. My computer desk is right next to my bed, so first thing every morning I roll out of bed and check my email. :)  I work on and off during the day and into the night. It's difficult to have set working hours when you are carrying for a house and children.
              JBW-  Coffee or tea? 
                AD-  Tea! I hate coffee. I don't know why!  
                Sand and Sea
                Shawlette
                JBW-  Favorite food:
                AD-  Anything that falls under the category of dessert.  

                JBW-  New Hobby:
                AD-  With knitting being such a primary focus, it’s hard to think in terms of other hobbies. There isn't much time left in the day! I have always enjoyed cooking, baking and gardening though as well. I love working with my hands. 
                Well, there you have it folks!  The inside scoop of Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting and “Coastal Knits.”  To learn more about Alana and her designs, check out her blog at: nevernotknitting.com. You can also see her on Ravelry at http://www.ravelry.com/people/nevernotknitting, and of course the Coastal Knits website (when its up and running) coastalknits.com.  
                Also, Coastal Knits will be available for pre-order very soon! Be sure to check Alana's (nevernotknitting.com) and Hannah's (knitbot.com) blogs for updates!
                And now for the winner of a copy of Coastal Knits (when it is released in October of course)!  Our randomly selected winner using random.org is:  Skip8 who said:  "I LOVE Hanna's patterns. I've made two featherweight cardigans and most recently made the breezy cardi, which I LOVE. She's so right about how these patterns are great for luxury yarns (my breezy cardi is out of jade sapphire silk/cashmere laceweight) - but even more affordable yarns really shine in her work."
                Congrats Skip8!  If you could please send us an e-mail with your full name, mailing address and phone number to info@jimmybeanswool.com, we’ll get you set up to receive the book as soon as its ready!
                Thanks again everyone for reading and I hope you all stay tuned for Coastal Knits when it arrives in the store!  We are all so excited to get our hands on a copy! 
                Happy knitting and crocheting!
                Kristen

                PS.  Are you receiving our bi-monthly newsletter yet?  It's the best way to find out about sales, new products and all thinks Jimmy Beans!  Sign up here.


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                Hannah Fettig of Knitbot designs and a Coastal Knits giveaway!

                by : MarinadeDesigns

                Cover Shot
                Hello everyone!  We have a special treat for you today!  Hannah Fettig, of Knitbot designs, updated us about her latest projects including “Coastal Knits,” her new book collaboration with fellow blogger and designer Alana Dakos of “Never Not Knitting”.  (And check back next week for a follow-up guest blog post with Alana!) Here's the juicy scoop:  
                1.  JBW- Tell us about Coastal Knits--we are so excited to get our hands on a copy! 
                Coastal Knits
                HF- Coastal Knits is a compilation between myself and Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting.   It features ten designs inspired by Alana's California and my Maine coastlines. Each design is inspired by specific places in our local areas and is accompanied by photographs and essays on the location's special meaning to us.




                2.  JBW-  So when is Coastal Knits going to be available?
                HF-  Pre-orders will start in the next week or two and the book is actually due to release in October.
                Featherweight Cardi



                3.  JBW-  How exciting! The book sounds really wonderful. Tell us a little bit about Knitbot, where does the name come from and how did you get started on the designing path?  
                HF- Back before Ravelry existed (it's hard to remember that time!) my husband and I had a similar idea and had reserved the domain name Knitbot.  I started blogging in that space, and the name carried forward to my self published pattern line.  My first designs were for The Fibre Company, the original mill was here in Portland, Maine, right down the street from the yarn shop I worked at.  I attended TNNA with them one summer and ended up meeting the editor for my first book, Closely Knit.  What really jump started my career was the popularity of my Whisper Cardigan pattern, which was published in the Spring 2009 issue of Interweave Knits.  This lead to my Featherweight Cardigan pattern, which is my most popular design to date.  I continue to strive to design simple, wearable knits.  My designs are a great way to showcase luxury yarns.
                Coastal Knits



                4.  JBW-  So, as an independent designer, do you have any advice for those folks out there who are just starting to design as well? 
                HF- Discover your niche, and consistently move in that direction.  This allows you to build a fan base, if a knitter likes you're style they'll come back for more!  Be patient, it takes time to build a name for yourself.  Blog and submit to magazines. 


                5.  JBW-  Now that Coastal Knits is completed what's next?
                HF- Well, I keep saying I'm going to take a break, but somehow I always commit myself to SOMETHING!  At the moment I'm developing the Knitbot Snack Size Pattern series.  It's a web exclusive series of super basic accessories patterns, all at the snack size price of $2.49.  There will be 4 patterns in the series.  If it goes well I may do another series in the Spring. 
                Coastal Knits





                6.  JBW-  Now for some fun questions...what time do you start work each day?
                HF-  I work at home, with a toddler running between my legs!  I usually package wholesale orders first thing in the morning and answer any e-mail.  Then during my son's nap I get a good chunk of design related work done.  For this project with Alana, we're in different time zones.  A lot of the work for Coastal Knits happened at night! 



                7.  JBW-  And now for the really important stuff...Coffee or tea?
                HF-  Coffee - specifically Americano, please! 
                Coastal Knits


                8.  JBW-  If you could live anywhere else in the world (including the US) where would it be?
                HF-  Honestly, right here in Portland, Maine.  I love to travel, to cities especially, but I am always so happy to be in my home town!  But I will say, part of my heart lives in San Francisco (just like the song says!)


                9.  JBW-  Any new hobbies?
                HF-  Cooking!!  I'm obsessed with Heidi Swanson and Alice Waters right now.  They are teaching me how to do it right! 


                10.  JBW-  What would you say is your biggest accomplishment?:
                HF-  Giving birth - I'm still really proud of myself for that one!  I had a super long labor and pushed for 7 hours.  He finally came out!


                11. JBW-  What is your favorite place to travel or vacation?
                Hannah herself!
                HF-  San Francisco. 
                Thank you so much Hannah for answering all of our serious (and not so serious) questions and for sharing this space with us.  For more information about Hannah Fettig and Knitbot, check out her blog and designs at http://knitbot.com.
                Hannah and Alana have also generously offered to give away a copy of “Coastal Knits” to one lucky Jimmy Beans Wool blog reader!  To be eligible to win, please leave a comment describing your favorite knits to wear on the coast, or a favorite design of Hannah’s by Tuesday at 6pm, PST.  We’ll choose a winner at random and announce it here next week when we interview Alana Dakos of “Never Not Knitting” and get her take on Coastal Knits as well!
                See you all next week!
                -Kristen


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