For about six months, I bought no yarn, no notions, no magazines or books. I could do this only because I knew that I'd be traveling to the Pacific Northwest and all its glorious yarn shops at the end of summer.
First up was Village Yarn and Tea, near my cousin's house outside Seattle. I bought this wonderful Kauni (pronounced cow-knee, as I learned) and will probably make a few hats out of the two large skeins. I hope to do a fake-isle style hat, something like these (Rav link).
Next was Churchmouse Yarn and Tea on Bainbridge Island. This is a truly lovely shop. They have tons of beautiful yarn, many shop samples, and a very helpful staff.
I bought two skeins of Socks that Rock Lightweight to make another Chevron Scarf (rav link).
This is Lunasea
and this is Carbon Dating.
Intrigued by a linen scarf they had made up, I also bought this Manos Silk Blend, which feels just heavenly.
Next we went to Portland, and we had some time to spend before we could stop in on a friend so we stopped at Twisted. My husband had some tea, the kids played with shop toys (It is wonderful for a yarn shop to give more than lip service to welcoming children!) and I had a great time shopping and chatting with the sales clerk. She helped me find a great pattern to go with this Malabrigo I wanted to buy -- and only three skeins!
I also bought this Socks that Rock Silkie that was just too pretty and soft to pass up.
Lastly, we went to the Yarn Garden, a large shop in Portland. I was actually a bit shopped out, but I did find one treasure, from Amelia Acres Alpacas.
The label says, "My name is Adonis. I hope my fleece keeps you warm." and has a picture of the alpaca on it. So sweet!
