Stix and Stones

An Earflap Cap!

2012-01-11T14:55:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year knitters! I hope that you all are having a great start to 2012. Try and keep those resolutions all year long and remember to always take some time for knitting every day to calm your mind, body and soul! Check out this design brought to you by yours truly and test knit by a few of my WONDERFUL customers! I designed this hat because I could not find a pattern for a hat just like this anywhere! When in doubt..... design! I hope to have this pattern available on Ravelry in the near future but for now it comes with the yarn purchase!

Comfy Cozy and super warm!


Earflaps are lined with a warm fluffy nanuk layer


The cozy Nanuk layer!

An external earflaps keeps your little ears extra warm!


Tassles complete the look!

One ball of Nanuk for the linings

2 skeins of Voyage for the hat!

What a great cozy hat to whip up for our chilly Northern Winters! Need a bigger size? Simple use bigger needles! The Voyage/Nanuk can work with up to an 8mm! A 2 night awesome project!

Happy knitting friends and Happy New Year from the Stix and Stones crew!

Wild Vines Cowl

2011-12-19T16:38:00.000-05:00

I hope that you are all gearing up for Christmas! It's only 6 sleeps away! And only 6 sleeps away until my birthday too! So if you're looking for a very last minute Christmas gift to whip up, here is a fantastic idea! It's wild, it's unique, it's BRAND NEW so hardly any one else has it and.... the kicker... it only takes 45 minutes to knit on 20mm needles and one skein of yarn! Check it out and remember out of towners, free shipping for all of December, I can get it to you in two days MAX! (Depending on location of course.)

Wild Vines!

Little vines are in the yarn!

Add some neutral or crazy buttons!

A wide wild colour selection!

A great quick knit to whip up on Christmas eve and throw under the tree! I can't wait to make one for me! Happy Holidays my friends and happy knitting!

All she wants for Christmas!

2011-12-13T11:13:00.000-05:00

Ok friends, I hope you didn't forget! Tomorrow night- Wednesday December 14th- from 5pm to 9pm is time for the men in your life to come out and shop for you wonderful ladies!! It's the first Men's Christmas shopping night! Stix and Stones and The FARM have teamed up for this event and we will be keeping our stores open late for the men to come shop and get great gifts for their loved ones! Send the husbands, boyfriends, spouses, fathers, grandfathers, brothers... whatever! We will lend our expertise to help pick out wonderful gifts for the knitter's in their lives!

We have Stix and Stones and The FARM wishlists available at both stores (or we can email them to you) for you to fill out with whatever your little heart desires and send your man in armed and ready to shop! Feel free to email your list to me at stixandstonesnb@gmail.com and I would be happy to fill a list out for you!

Besides our wonderful expertise and tips steering them in a great direction for knitter's gifts, they will also receive 15% off all regular priced merchandise with a few other in store specials!! Now ladies- if you can't convince the man to come in shop, we will absolutely not deter you from coming and getting your own gifts!

It's going to be a wonderful and fun night and we hope to see all your men there!

The bad movie cowl!

2011-11-30T15:52:00.001-05:00

The little designer in me has struck again! This past weekend I had a good friend come up to visit me in North Bay. She had never been to either of my stores before and was incredibly inspired by the colours, textures and fibers that she found in here. All night on Saturday, we stayed up watching movies and I taught her how to knit! With some help from my two kitties and a very VERY bad movie, came the bad movie cowl! It can be knit in the span of just one bad movie! The colour combination's are infinite using Americo's Merino Copito. I chose 3 different colours but you might choose one solid colour, or make up your own wacky combination! 20mm needles made this project crazy fast and incredibly versatile! Check it out!

Big squishy cowl!

Pull it down like a poncho!

Wear it like a hood!

The colour possibilities are endless and next monday we will have even more colours after our trip to Americo! Here's a few that we put together, see what else you might come up with!

Jewel

Cool

Cool jewel

Rustic

Arizona

Statement

This is a very easy pattern and clearly very quick as well! The pattern comes free with the yarn which is just $45 for all 3 skeins! Isn't that a fantastic Christmas gift knit?! Check out Americo's website for even more colour options that will be in stock Monday! Enjoy and happy knitting!

Creative design= genius!

2011-11-22T16:28:00.001-05:00

Hello my wonderful knitter's! Well as some of you may have realized, I have been designing up a storm lately! I am trying to get a lot of one night projects ready in time to inspire you all for Christmas Gift knitting. Check out my newest innovative creation- so easy you'll wonder why you never thought of it!

But before we get to the photos, I just wanted to let you all know that this Friday November 25, 2011 is the 23rd annual Old Fashioned Downtown Christmas Walk! All the stores downtown will be staying open until 9pm and will be offering great sales and great treats! Main street will be blocked off for the event, so feel free to head over to the Oak street parking lot for a great place to park! There will be sleigh rides, carolers, roasted nuts, hot chocolate, the lighting of the Christmas tree and just plain old fashioned fun! It's a great event for the entire family to enjoy so come on down and don't miss out on what promises to be an amazing night!

A very funky cowl!


All it is, is a triangle with a button and a hole! How simple?!


Place the wide end in front, button and let it flop!

This cowl made from just one skein of Fleece Artist Slubby Blue and is only $20 per skein! How's that for a great Christmas cowl idea that can be worn all winter long?! Slubby Blue comes in a wide selection of colours and we have 20 different colours in stock! The pattern is available free with the purchase of your yarn for this project which only took one night to knit! After wards, I gave it a nice Eucalan bath, laid it flat to dry overnight, then decided where to place the button and sewed it on!

Happy knitting!

Cables and Capes.

2011-11-16T15:56:00.000-05:00

The two biggest trends this season by far are cables and capes and when combined together in one chunky knit piece, you'll feel like you're walking the runway every time you step out your door! Check out this piece and the FREE PATTERN and find my personal yarn suggestions below!

This chunky knit looks great over any coat or even just a simple tee!

Just seed stitch and chunky cables!

Big buttons always accentuate your piece!

I recommend Malabrigo Rasta, Americo Eco Rasta, Ester Bitran Socos or Berroco Sundae. All of these yarns are fantastically chunky and will make this a quick easy knit or even a great Christmas gift idea!

Happy knitting!

Hooded cowl, Funky knit.

2011-11-10T14:30:00.000-05:00

Accessories are all the rage this season especially when it comes to hooded cowls! It's so fun to knit something that is quick, easy and mindless and even more fun when there are tons of different ways to wear your knits! Check out this cowl for some knitspiration.

This is my newly finished Boboli hooded cowl. This project uses two skeins of Berroco Boboli and a 5.5mm needle. This project is worked in the round with a moebius twist to make it funky and versatile.

Hood it.

Cowl it.

Hang it.

Shawl it.

Tie it.

All with a simple lace stitch.

"Each shade of Boboli is composed of an enchanting mix of shifting colors. A glimmering wool blend boasting a subtle shine and soft hand, this yarn lends cool-weather projects an air of sophisticated originality."

Boboli is a blend of Wool, Acrylic and Viscose is an absolute dream to knit with. The silky sections add some sheen and the wool provides all the warmth you need! We have a wide selection of 9 colourways in stock- there is something for everyone and the colours do all the talking!

A Mistical Cowl

2011-11-01T16:14:00.000-04:00

Alright my knitters, Christmas is only 8 Saturdays away and you know what that means? It is time to get your knit on! I have been working on multiple new patterns that make quick and easy Christmas gift ideas to either knit or gift to a special someone! My latest creation is my Misti Alpaca Cowl. Check it out!

100% Baby alpaca- light as a feather and 3x warmer than wool

3 buttons make the colours POP!

A simple Moss stitch design makes this a quick easy knit.

Wear it under your winter jacket and fight off the Northern Cold!

It only takes one skein and there are 10 colours to choose from!

This was a fantastic knit that was very easy and quick, it only took two evenings to finish! Misti Alpaca Hand Paint Chunky is the yarn that was used for this cowl. It is incredibly soft, hypoallergenic, lightweight and 3 times warmer than wool! Alpaca is a hollow fiber which allows it to hold heat and keep you extra warm which is essential for our -30 degree winter weather!

Come check out the in store sample and feel how amazing it really is! The pattern for this cowl comes free with the yarn!

What's knittin'?

2011-10-19T11:39:00.000-04:00

Yes... it is finally finished. My September "Clown barf" sweater as it was lovingly named by my awesome Friday night ladies. But guess what? I love it, it looks great on me and it fits perfectly!

Vitamin D from Ravelry! OR clown barf!

I love how well the short rows show up!

My Favorite! TFA Blue label in Harvest!

No colour pooling!!


I just loved the radial increases!

This was a great sweater to knit! Very easy construction and it fits incredibly well! Any sock weight yarn would be fabulous in this sweater! most people opted for solid colours to show off the "sun spots" yarn overs- but I'm a little crazy for orange and brights so bright and orange I did! It only takes 3 balls for most sizes! Try it in Tanis Fiber Arts purple label cashmere... you'll never be the same.

My fall window! let's zoom in and see what we find....


Oh it's just my award... no big deal!

On Monday night at The Evening of Excellence- the kick off dinner to small business week- I was presented with this award for "Success Story" for my business. I am so excited about having just been nominated for this award and it was such an honor to win! Opening any business in a small town like North Bay is very difficult- let alone a specialty store like mine! It was just over two years ago that I opened my store at the age of 20. I personally have grown so much in that time and my business has as well! What an amazing milestone this was for Stix and Stones. Thank you all my devoted customers, students, family and friends for helping me out on this journey. I couldn't be happier! Now I can't wait to see what comes next....

Fall Fashions!

2011-10-12T15:57:00.000-04:00

For those of you that didn't make it to our fall fashion show... here's a little sneak peak at what you missed!

A store packed with excited knitters!

Grandpa cardigans are all the rage right now! Here are two sweaters- the caramel one knit out of two of Berroco's new yarns- Voyage and Nanuk- and the variegated sweater is knit out of Berroco's Souffle- a bulky weight yarn that is incredibly light and drapey. Dress it up or down... no matter what you'll be snuggly and warm!

Ysabell Shawl from Ravelry knit out of Mulberry Silk


2 funky cowls on 2 funky girls! Yes, hoods are in!!

Extra bulky 1 skein Berroco"Link" Scarf!

Bulky weight is huge right now!

My Favorite look in Gen's favorite shoes! I'm surprised they were still around at the end of the night...

This is again a mix of Berroco's Voyage and Nanuk- 2 of my FAVE yarns this season can you tell? The nanuk literally looks and feel like shearling.... it's amazing! It's fantastic to knit with and just fabulous to wear! This is the sisterhood of the travelling vest because I kid you not... it fits everyone beautifully!

What a fabulous night with fabulous people and tons of inspiration! I can't wait for the next one in Spring!

Cheers from the Stix and Stones crowd!

2011-07-19T10:52:00.001-04:00

Thursday July 28, 2011 from 8pm to 11pm is the first- and hopefully annual- moonlight madness event in downtown North Bay!

Over 40 stores in downtown North Bay will be staying open EXTRA late and will be holding fantastic sales! The streets downtown will be closed off and will have outdoor vendors, food and music! Stix and Stones will be part of this event and will be open until 11pm and will have hourly 50% off sales as well as sales around the store!

Don't miss out as this is sure to be a very fun filled night!

Fall Fashion Show!

2011-07-08T11:45:00.001-04:00

As the first fashion show in February was such a fantastic hit, I will be holding another for the upcoming fall/winter season in the new larger store!

On Wednesday September 21 from 6pm to 9pm join us at our new location at 147 Main Street West to see the newest trends, colours, books/patterns and yarns for the 2011/2012 fall/winter season as well as never before seen garments!

Get a first hand look at the brand new to the store yarns as well as new colours for the season. I will be doing a discussion on the upcoming trends and styles for the season while our wonderful models strut their stuff up and down the MUCH larger catwalk!

Me and my team have been frantically working to create new and interesting samples out of this seasons hottest colours, yarns and patterns! We will be sure to get your creative juices flowing and will show you some great inspiration for your next project and perhaps give you a jump start on your Christmas knitting projects!

Each attendee will receive a gift bag stocked with full skeins and sample balls of the new yarns that I have brought in! Great for swatching and sampling to see what you like best and what you might want to use for your next project! Many of these yarns will be great for one skein projects! And OF COURSE we will have TONS of treats, appetizers and beverages!

The cost is $35 per person- be sure to sign up early to reserve your seat! Spaces are limited! It promises to be a very fun fiber filled night!

2011-06-28T17:01:00.000-04:00

KIDS CAMP!

Monday July 11 to Thursday July 14
11:00am to 4:00pm each day
$240 for all 4 days- ALL materials included
$70 for a single day- materials for that day included
Ages 8 and up
* Additional camp weeks will be offered if there is an interest! Please notify me of week that you would like your child to attend!

As a kid I was always interested in crafts and anything creative and not too often did I have a place in the summer to be able to express that creativity. This kids camp is for any kid that has an interest in crafts of all kinds! It is a place for each unique child to be able to put that creative evergy towards creating something new! Each day will consist of different activities and craft ideas including but not at all limited to....

Basic knitting projects- hats, scarves, fingerless gloves, cell phone/ipod cases and etc.
Silk screening t-shirts
Tye dying
Jewellery making- cluster rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and etc.
Wet felting to create scarves, potholders, placemats and etc.
Scrapbooking- cards, notebooks, photobooks and etc,
Basic crochet
Uppercase living vinyl sticker craft decoration- waterbottles, notebooks, pencil cases and etc.
Adventures to the waterfront and the North Bay museum
Fun competitions and challenges for knitting, jewellery and more!

All the materials are included in the price of the course and each child will be able to complete at least 3 projects per day! It is a great way to meet new kids that have similar interests while learning new techniques that develop different parts of the brain and skills that are not taught in schools.

Please send a lunch with your child and please notify me of any allergies your child may have so we can ensure the utmost safety for them!

2011-06-28T16:54:00.000-04:00

Shalom!

I finished knitting my Shalom cardigan (a free pattern found HERE) on Friday last week- I started it on Tuesday after having ripped it out once on monday. This is one of those fantastic universal sweaters that is a super quick knit and looks fantastic in a variety of yarns, colours and is great for every body type! I decided to knit mine out of Araucania's Patagonia yarn (4 skeins for all sizes!) and for being a 100% pima cotton, it may be one of the most luxurious things I have ever made! It's too soft! So Saturday morning.... I put my lovely Shalom up on the mannequin and stared at it for awhile.... and then it stared at me for awhile..... and then we both stared at each other for awhile..... then I got up, walked over to it and ripped it apart to the droopy floppy armholes! Now I have no idea what it was about these armholes- perhaps the combination of being 5 foot 1 and busty with drooping armholes just didn't seem a good fit for me. I haven't read that other people have changed the pattern at all but just in case you run in to the same problem I did, here are the changes I made..... the third time's the charm right! Visit me tomorrow for the finished sample!

Row 45: K29, bind off 34, k43, bind off 34, k29
Row 46: (begin body) k5, p to first armhole, cast on 10 stitches, p to second armhole, cast on 10 stitches, p14, k5.

This really is a great sweater and the changes have worked out incredibly well- being knit from the top down you get to try on the sweater as you go!

There is a HUGE colour selection for this yarn and it also works with Americo's Organic Cotton as well as multiple wool and alpaca blend yarns. On 7mm needles you might consider this for your next quick knit in a few days sweater project!

2011-06-15T21:37:00.000-04:00

A successful Retreat!

I had so much fun this past weekend hosting my first ever knitting retreat and for those of you that weren't able to make it here is a small piece of what you missed out on!

The awesome students

And their workspace

A table always full of snacks, meals and treats

A place to relax with a good knit

The wonderful instruction of our beloved teacher

Door prizes for everyone!

New techniques

Great grafting skills!

Just a tad more learning...

A hint of magical nature all around us

All in all just the Cat's Pajama's!

Even the puppy had a great time with all his visitors!

A classroom so bright extra lights were rarely needed

And some more learnin'!

A teacher you could never loose in a crowd!

The perfect location for instruction!

Totally tubular double knitting!

A lounge to unwind with the infamous "dirty sue."

And the hostesses to make all your knitting and culinary dreams come true!

Keep posted for next year's teacher who will be announced in the next few weeks!

Happy knitting!

2011-06-07T17:37:00.000-04:00

It's finally here!
This weekend is the kick off to my first ever knitting retreat with Lucy Neatby and I couldn't be more excited! It's been an insane whirlwind of gift bags, cleaning, cooking, baking and just all in all craziness. Things are coming together and I am already planning my retreat for next year- the special guest teacher and the dates will be announced soon so keep tuned!

This week until Thursday, I will have a selection of Lucy's merchandise on display for purchase in the store. I have ALL of Lucy's knitting tutorial dvd's in stock now as well as...

Book- Cool Knitter's Finish in Style $22

Book- Cool Socks Warm Feet $25

Yarn- Cat's Pajamas- Hand dyed- Merino, cashmere, nylon (80/10/10) 300m each skein. $35

Patterns for a variety of projects as well as two scarf kits for the bubble scarf and checkerboard scarf!

Come and check out this wonderful variety of merchandise while you can!

Be sure to check out pictures from the retreat next week!

2011-05-24T21:19:00.000-04:00

Free knitting class for first timers!

For those of you that have not yet had the opportunity to attend one of my classes at Stix and Stones, now is the time to do so!

I am offering to everyone that has not yet been to a class to come and try one out for free! You can choose between…

Open knit nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 where I can teach you from scratch all the basics of knitting, or a specific technique that you are interested or I can assist you with either starting a new project or helping you with your current one.

You may also choose to attend a Saturday morning specialty technique class where every saturday is something different! Generally the times for these classes are 10:30 to 12:30 and the updated monthly schedule can be found here or on Ravelry here.
Feel free and pass this offer along to your friends and family and we could even discuss putting together a special knitting class time for groups of 4 or more!

Give me a call at the store or send me an email to let me know which class you would like to attend and when and if you need any more information on it and please let me know that it is the free class offer that you are using for it!

Happy knitting!
705-223-8245
stixandstonesnb@gmail.com
http://www.stixandstonesnb.blogspot.com/

2011-05-09T12:02:00.000-04:00

Friday Night Movie Night!

This Friday May 13th starting at 6pm we are having a knitting DVD night at Stix and Stones featuring a DVD from the famous collection of Lucy Neatby knitting tutorial DVD's. With a wide selection of DVD's to choose from, we will put it to a vote which one to watch! Currently available we have...

Knitting Essentials 1

Finesse your knitting 1

Knitting Gems 1

Knitting Venus 1&2

Sock Techniques 1&2

The cost for this event will be $5 per person with a $5 rebate on your purchase of one of these great knitting tutorials.

I will be setting up our video on a huge projection screen in the store to get the full effect! We will have tons of popcorn, treats and, as always, FUN! Feel free to bring your own knitting or some scrap yarn and needles to practice the techniques taught in the video. It's a fun and easy way to learn some new skills, meet some new people and unwind after the work week.

**This event is open to EVERYONE! All skill levels are welcome!

To RSVP to this event call Stix and Stones at 705-223-8245 or feel free to send me an email at stixandstonesnb@gmail.com

Happy knitting!

2011-05-04T15:57:00.003-04:00

Monthly Special!

Stix and Stones is pleased to offer Classic Elite's "Premiere cotton" as the special for the month of May!

This exquisite cotton and tencel blend yarn is perfect for your summer knits as it is lightweight and has a fabulous drape to it! Regular price is $9.00 per skein and this month with a 20% discount is only $7.20 per skein! We have a selection of 12 colours in stock now! Check out this free pattern that works great with the Premiere Cotton!

Tarte by Norah Gaughan

Our New North Bay Retail Store Is Now Open! 147 Main Street West. North Bay, Ontario

2011-04-04T22:29:00.000-04:00

I invite you to visit my new retail store located at 147 Main Street West in downtown North Bay . I spent 3 days last week moving locations. With the help of some very dedicated friends and my family and a lot of hard work we are now in our new beautiful home.

I am so proud to show you photos of my new store interior and windows, featuring our wonderful hand knitting yarns & accessories. Let me show you around:

Our spacious new store interior.

A spacious, bright interior to display feature yarns.

Project Kits from Fleece Artist, Hand Maiden & Sweater Kits.

All of our yarns are sorted by weight for ease of selection.

We have two large, well-lit class tables for
our customers to use and enjoy.

My Spring Theme Window With Cherry Blossoms!

Our lovely assortment of Yarns & Knitting Accessories.

I just know Cuzco and I will be very happy here!

Stix & Stones Store Hours:
Monday: 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Tuesday: 10:00am - *7:30pm.
Wednesday: 10:00am - 5:30pm.
Thursday: 10:00am - *7:30pm.
Friday: 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Saturday: 10:00am - 5:00pm.
Sunday: Closed.
*Open late Tuesday & Thursday for Knit Night.

2 Hour Free Parking on Oak Street:
The new store has an entrance on Main Street and on Oak Street, which is directly across from a Municipal Parking lot with free 2 Hour Parking!

To all of my customers I thank you so much for your continued support and I look forward to seeing you soon! Take care.

Rae Brenne
Stix & Stones.
North Bay, Ontario.

Lantern Moon Knitting Bags, Hand Crafted Needles and Accessories at Stix & Stones

2011-03-25T07:55:00.003-04:00

Introducing our newest collection of knitting accessories, bags and needles from Lantern Moon!

Lantern Moon is an eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable company with products produced in Vietnam. Every item they produce has been beautifully crafted by hand and made from the most exquisite materials.

Marilyn Needle Case For Straight + Circular Knitting Needles at Stix & Stones

Lanter Moon is highly regarded for the quality of their Rosewood & Ebony knitting needles, knitting bags and accessories.

Zip Compact For Double Pointed Needles at Stix & Stones

I invite you to visit our store to see our wonderful selection of knitting needle cases, including double point cases, circular cases, interchangeable circular cases, crochet hook cases and combination cases.

Each of these cases are available in 3 different colours.

We received a fantastic variety of tape measures in fluffy sheep and crocheted flowers - all available in different colours.

There is a wonderful selection of knitting bags including the Lauren- Uzu bag and the Anna bag - both shown below in the available colours.

The LAUREN Bag in Natural Uzu at Stix & Stones

Lantern Moon Anna Bag at Stix & Stones

And my personal favorite.... The Knit Out Box! A fantastic and innovative idea to keep your yarn from bouncing around! You place your ball of yarn inside, weave your end through the keyhole, place the top back on and fasten to stay closed. It is fantastic, portable and collapsable so it fits perfectly into your knitting bag! It is available in 6 different colours of silk!

Contact Stix & Stones at 705-223-8245 to order using a Credit Card. We ship to our customers worldwide using Canada Post.

Reminder! Stix & Stones new store location opens for business on Saturday, April 02, 2011 at 147 Main Street, North Bay. All other contact information remains the same.

To accomodate the move into our new store location, Stix & Stones will be closed on Wednesday, March 29, Thursday, March 30, and Friday March 31, 2011.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

We are hosting a special preview party from 6-9pm on Friday, April 01. And it is not lost on me that this is April Fools Day but this move is very much our new reality and an exciting new chapter in my life and business.

We hope you can join us!

Our new North Bay location will be open for regular business on Saturday, April 02, 2011 at 10am.

Take care and I thank you for your continued support!

Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones.
North Bay, Ontario.

Norah Gaughan Volume 8 Pattern Collection. New For Spring 2011.

2011-03-17T19:37:00.001-04:00

Carolyn Barnett Workshops At Stix & Stones: Button Making & Introduction To Machine Knitting.

2011-03-12T20:32:00.000-05:00

Join us at Stix & Stones May 14 & 15, 2011 as we present two exciting workshops by Designer Carolyn Barnett.

Carolyn creates custom hand loomed knitwear on her home knitting machines and Polymer-Clay Buttons and Accessories at her studio in Kingston, Ontario. Carolyn retails her creations at craft and art shows, including the upcoming Spring One Of A Kind Show in Toronto, as well as to her private clientele and her online Etsy Store.

Carolyn also conducts workshops based on her designs and we have invited her to present the following two workshops:

Button Making Class

Saturday, May 14, 2011

10:00am to 4:00pm

$55 Per Person Plus $20 Material Fee For Polymer Clay and Tools.

In this class we will be learning how to create and design our very own buttons, pins and shawl sticks!

You will be able to choose from a variety of Polymer Clay colours to match an already completed project or to keep for a future project! The end product is absolutely stunning and everyone's projects will turn out so differently from one to the next.

Please visit Carolyn's blog for pictures of her previous classes at http://www.theartofwool.blogspot.com/.

The tools and materials used in the class are where the "material fee" comes from and you will be able to take them home as well for future use.

This is going to be a fantastic workshop with great colours and creativity and so many ideas to explore!

Please bring your own lunch with you. We will provide coffee, tea and snacks.

Seating is limited to 15 people and is acknowledged on a first come first serve basis. You must pay for this workshop in advance to ensure your spot. If you have reserved a spot and not yet paid, your spot may be given up to another student. In the event you need to cancel your space, I will provide a refund IF I am able to fill your spot. If I am inable to fill your space, no refund will be issued.

To register for this class please call Stix and Stones at 705-223-8245 and make a secure payment over the phone with Visa or Mastercard

Introduction To Machine Knitting Class

Sunday May 15, 2011

10:00am to 4:00pm

$55 Per Person

In this class we will learn all the basics of using a home knitting machine! This class is limited to 8 people all of which will be able to use a machine for the day OR, if you have a knitting machine, please bring it with you so that you are able to learn on your own machine and so you will be able to get used to it and be comfortable using it again on your own.

We will be making a baby sized hoodie or "sample sized" that can be used as a gift for a loved one or a sample for yourself to reference. We will be using sock weight yarn- self patterning is preferred for this project- which you may bring with you if you have some or you will be able to purchase it in my shop with a 15% discount.

There is a lot of discrimination against knitting machine as people seem to be under the impression that you're "cheating" or not really making it yourself. Well, I say we use sewing machines for making garments instead of sewing it all together by hand, so what is the difference? Spinners commonly use a Spinning Wheel, not just drop spindles. With a home knitting machine you work the machine, it does not work itself automatically. The main bonus is speed: you can make a garment in a fraction of the time and you can also create your own cut and sew fabric very quickly from a knitting machine! Especially Stocking Stitch fabric. There are alot of benefits to both machine and hand knitting and one technique does not weigh out the other.

Machine knitting is an expansion of knowledge in this wonderful craft of knitting and a great way to move your abilities up a level! Again, this is going to be a fantastic class and I personally cannot wait to expand my knitting knowledge with the machine!

Please bring your own lunch with you. We will provide coffee, tea and snacks.

Seating is limited to 8 people for this Sunday workshop and is acknowledged on a first come first serve basis. You must pay for this workshop in advance to ensure your spot. If you have reserved a spot and not yet paid, your spot may be given up to another student. In the event you need to cancel your space, I will provide a refund IF I am able to fill your spot. If I cannot fill your space, no refund will be issued.

To register for the Introduction To Machine Knitting class please call Stix and Stones at 705-223-8245 to make a secure payment over the phone with aVisa or Mastercard.

I look forward to seeing you!

Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones.
North Bay, Ontario.

Stix & Stones Is Moving! Come To Our Grand Re-Opening Preview Party Celebrating Our New North Bay Location On Friday April 01, 2011 From 6-9PM!

2011-03-08T07:16:00.015-05:00

I am pleased to announce that Stix & Stones is moving to a new retail location in downtown North Bay and we are inviting you to come to our Grand Re-Opening Preview Party on Friday, April 01, 2011 from 6pm-9pm!

Our new address will be:
147 Main Street West
North Bay, Ontario
P1B 3W7.

Our business contact phone number and email remain the same:
Phone: 705-223-8245
email: stixandstonesnb@gmail.com

Now With Convenient Free 2 Hour Parking!

Our new retail location is located just half a block west of our current store and offers two entrances; one from Main Street and the second on Oak street directly across from the 2 Hour Free Parking Lot.

I am looking forward to the larger interior store space to display our fabulous selection of quality hand knitting yarns, accessories and jewellery.

Our new larger retail space means more room for larger classes and workshops! Look for an exciting line up of teachers and classes to be announced over the coming months! Get ready to sharpen your skills!

Stix & Stones Grand Re-opening Preview Party, celebrating our new retail store on Friday, April 01, 2011 at 147 Main Street, North Bay! 6pm-9pm.

New store open for regular business starting Saturday, April 02 at 10am.

Our current retail store remains open for business as usual with our hours being:
• Monday & Wednesday: 10am - 5:30pm.
• Tuesday & Thursday: 10am - *7:30pm.
• Friday & Saturday: 10am - 5pm.
• Sunday: Closed.
*Join us Tuesday & Thursday evenings for our Knit Nights 5:30pm-7:30pm.

Thank you so much for your continued support. I'm proud to serve our customers in Northern Ontario and around the world retailing the finest selection of quality hand knitting and crochet yarns, patterns and accessories!

Happy Knitting!

Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones.
North Bay, Ontario.

New For 2011: Berroco Flicker at Stix and Stones

2011-03-05T19:09:00.000-05:00

New for Spring 2011 is Flicker from Berroco!

Intended for a Fall release, Berroco was so excited about this new yarn they decided to start distributing Flicker now. And we couldn't be happier!

Berroco Flicker is a gorgeous chainette style yarn made of the softest Baby Alpaca in natural shades, with tiny metalic filament threads in either Silver or Gold, creating a subtle effect which is soft to the touch.

Nansen

Flicker lends itself to classic accessories and garments in shades that will last a lifetime. And that subtle touch of metallic thread is so charming!

Loken

Toren

Unique pattern designs are a trademark of Berroco designers Norah Gaughan and Cirillia Rose, and 6 Free Patterns accompany the release of Flicker, available from the Berroco website.

Viveca

Contact Stix and Stones to order Berroco Flicker using a Credit Card at 705-223-8245 or visit our retail store in downtown North Bay.

Bringing you the finest selection of hand knitting yarns and accessories in Northern Ontario, we hope to see you at Stix and Stones in North Bay soon!

Happy Knitting.

Ms. Rae Brenne.

New For 2011 - Berroco Ultra Alpaca Tonal

2011-02-25T09:24:00.001-05:00

I am happy to introduce Berroco's newest addition to the Ultra Alpaca family - Ultra Alpaca Tonal!

Stix and Stones has in stock all 8 new shades of Ultra Alpaca Tonal - a subtle tone-on-tone dye effect in their most popular hand knitting yarn.

Ultra Alpaca is a personal favourite, with a superb blend of 50% Peruvian Highland Wool + 50% Alpaca, creating a hand knitting yarn with excellent stitch definition and wonderful colours in a Worsted Weight yarn.

Free Berroco Pattern: Runcorn

Ultra Alpaca Tonal creates a unique addition to the many colours of the Ultra Alpaca line in stock at Stix and Stones.

Free Berroco Pattern: Bascom

With Berroco's generous free patterns featuring Ultra Alpaca, quick and easy gifts and personal knitting projects are the perfect choice for sampling Ultra Ulpaca Tonal.

I love the Ostrom Cowl which is a free pattern taking just 3 skeins of the new Ultra Alpaca Tonal to make. Sweet!

Free Berroco Pattern: Ostrom

Ultra Alpaca Tonal is also a great choice for cabled projects like Lambe, a free hand bag pattern needing 3 skeins to make.

And the very popular Brea Bag!

If these Cable Bags appeal to you but you feel you need some assistance learning how to work advanced Cable techniques, join our CABLES 2 - BEYOND THE BASICS CLASS on Saturday, March 05, 2011.

In this class we will take you beyond simple 3 over 3 cross cables and show you more advanced fancy braided cables and travelling stitches that also incorporate decreases and shaping.

Then when you see a pretty pattern like Albem from Berroco, you will have the skill set to create a project like this with confidence.

CABLES 2 - BEYOND THE BASICS

When: Saturday, March 05, 2011.

Time: 10:30AM - 12:30PM

Cost: $10 Per Person

Please follow this link to our complete list of Classes for March 2011.

We are pleased to offer our customers the latest yarns and colours from great, quality yarn companies and to help you develop your knitting and crochet skills.

To order Berroco Ultra Alpaca Tonal or sign up for a Stix and Stones Class please call our retail store at 705-223-8245.

We hope to see you soon. Happy knitting!

Ms. Rae Brenne

Stix and Stones

North Bay, Ontario

Stix & Stones 2011 Knitting Retreat With Lucy Neatby June 09 - 12, 2011.

2011-01-22T23:05:00.001-05:00

Stix & Stones is proud to be hosting our first annual Knitter's Retreat June 09-12, 2011 at The Canadian Ecology Centre in Mattawa.

We are very pleased to announce that Lucy Neatby will be the guest instructor, teaching a variety of workshops Friday June 10, Saturday June 11 and Sunday June 12, 2011.

The Stix & Stones Knitting Retreat begins on Thursday, June 09 with a Wine &Cheese Reception and Fashion Show. The perfect start to a weekend of learning with Lucy Neatby.

The Lucy Neatby workshops run Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Checkout is after the last class at 3pm.

The 2011 Knitting Retreat cost is $650.00 per person.

For more 2011 Knitting Retreat information including accommodations, prices and workshop outlines and homework, please visit our Stix & Stones Knitting Retreat Blog.

Thank you and I hope you can attend this years retreat.

Rae Brenne.
Stix and Stones.

2011 Spring/Summer Knitwear Trend Forecasting Show: February 23 at Stix & Stones

2011-01-13T12:29:00.001-05:00

I have been working hard on our lineup of

new yarns and fashions for

Spring/Summer 2011 at Stix & Stones.

As our business is retailing textiles, we are heavily influenced by Trend Reports and Fashion Forecasting. Who knows what will be the hit of the coming season? But it's fun making projections and educated guesses!

I have gotten a few sneak previews of the exciting yarns and patterns to come this year and let me tell you that it is so exciting!

So rather than keep all this to

myself I will be holding a

Spring/Summer 2011 Knitwear Fashion

Show & Sample Knit Night

on February 23rd from 6pm to 9pm.

The cost is 35$ per person and each person will receive a gift bag filled with samples of the new Spring/Summer 2011 yarns!

The evening will feature sample knitting with these new yarns while watching a presentation of the newest knitwear garments and clothing trends for 2011 walk down our little runway, all while enjoying treats and beverages.

I will do a discussion on the newest

patterns and what we are seeing

in yarn for the coming year.

This is your opportunity to be the very first to see these new yarns up close and you will be able to take advantage of some special promotions for the evening.

Please call to reserve your spot at

705-223-8245. Seating will be very

limited so sign up soon before

all the seats are taken!

Thank you and I look forward to seeing you.

Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones.

New for 2011: Trendsetter Flamenco!

2011-01-04T23:41:00.000-05:00

New Arrival for 2011: Trendsetter Flamenco!
A lot of people have been waiting for the arrival of Katia's Ondas yarn which is similar to the Frill Seeker from Estelle and I am still waiting on the yarn to arrive at our distributor. In the mean time, I have sourced an exciting new yarn from Trendsetter Yarns in Los Angeles - Flamenco!

Developed by Barry Klein, Trendsetter Flamenco creates crazy ruffles similar to that of the Ondas and Frill Seeker but even better in my opinion.

One ball will do a whole funky scarf! The 'Waterlily' colourway is shown below.

I invite you to stop by our store to view this exciting new yarn from Barry Klein of Trendsetter Yarns. We ship worldwide and you can order using a Credit Card by calling our store at 705-223-8245.

Also, I have decided to extend our BOXING WEEK SALE until this Friday January 7, 2011 at 5:00 pm. Select yarns from Berroco, Fleece Artist, Classic Elite, Herwool, Trendsetter, Naturally, Noro, Sweaterkits and more are up to 50% off! Come check it out before 5pm this Friday!

Take care and happy knitting!

Ms. Rae Brenne.

Stix & Stones.

North Bay, Ontario.

Berroco Ultra Alpaca Yarn at Stix & Stones

2011-01-02T14:03:00.000-05:00

At Stix & Stones we are proud to retail the wonderful hand knitting yarns and stylish patterns from Berroco Yarns.

A particular favourite quality is Berroco Ultra Alpaca, a soft blend of 50% Alpaca + 50% Peruvian Highland Wool, dyed into a huge range of 50+ colours.

Ultra Alpaca is put up in 3.5oz/100g skeins with 215yds/198m.

Of course with the talent of Norah Gaughan and Cirillia Rose leading the in-house design team, wonderful patterns for all members of the family are published in booklets available for purchase at Stix & Stones and they balance this nicely with free patterns on the Berroco website.

Some of our favourites are:

Rayeures: a flattering stripe pullover with a nicely draped, scoop neckline featuring horizontal stripes women of all sizes can wear.

Avocet B: Looking to branch out from knitting accessories, this stylish jacket is worked all in Garter Stitch and has wonderful, contemporary styling for women of all ages.

Faber, from Norah Gaughan Volume 5 features this great thermal stitch, sure to be a year round fave.

For the guys there is Andoa, worked in an alternating knit + purl stitch pattern, not too complicated but with enough variation to keep you motivated to the end.

Ursa is a great jacket with easy styling worked up simply in Ultra Alpaca.

Finally, to help keep your Crochet Hooks, Sock Needles or Accessories in order, there is this easy to make Kluster clutch, a wee project to help keep everything in it's place!

We invite you to visit Stix & Stones in North Bay to view our selection of Berroco Ultra Alpaca and other Berroco Yarns. We ship worldwide using Canada Post and secure phone orders using a credit card can be made by calling 705-223-8245.

Take care and we hope to see you soon!

Rasta by Malabrigo at Stix & Stones

2010-12-14T06:29:00.004-05:00

We have received three new colours of Rasta, a great super-bulky weight Merino Wool by Malabrigo Yarns that knits on 9 - 12mm needles, perfect for Cowls, Afghans, Hats and Mitts.

Rasta is a single ply of 100% Merino Wool put up in 90yd/82m skeins, the yarn is given a slight twist and then lightly felted and hand dyed in the great colours Malabrigo is known for. Here is a sampling of the Rasta colours we stock at Stix & Stones.

Being a super-bulky weight means this yarn works up fast, so if you are looking to reward yourself or gift a certain someone with a knitting project that works up fast, Rasta is an excellent choice.

1-2 skeins of Rasta are perfect for most accessory patterns including these popular free patterns available on Ravelry.com:

• The Anyway Chunky Hat Pattern by Turvid

• Outsider Mittens by Susan B. Anderson

• Super Bulky Button Hat by Jill Bujold - **This adult hat takes 1 hour to make!

• Easy Moebius Cowl by Haley Waxberg

Our store sample of the Neck Warmer from Malabrigo Book 3 took only 2 hours to make, perfect for an afternoon project or while enjoying a movie.

Please visit our retail store in North Bay to view our line of Malabrigo Yarns or contact us at 705-223-8245 to order Rasta using a credit card. We ship worldwide.

Take care and happy knitting!

Ms. Rae Brenne
Stix & Stones
North Bay, Ontario.

Addi Click Interchangeable Needle Sets from Stix & Stones: In Turbo, Lace & Natura Bamboo

2010-12-03T21:37:00.001-05:00

I am pleased to introduce the Addi Click line of Interchangeable Needle Sets at Stix & Stones in North Bay.

Addi Knitting Needles are made in Germany to the highest standards and their three popular needle tip variations are now available in Interchangeable Sets called Addi Click!

Addi produces needles in three variations: the blunt tip Addi Turbo®, the super sharp Addi Lace® and the best Bamboo needles on the market Addi Natura®.

Now all three varieties are available separately in Interchangeable Needle Sets featuring the exclusive Addi Click locking mechanism. This unique system requires no tools to change out needle tip sizes. One simply inserts the cord deep into the base of an interchangeable needle, twist and release. The cord remains in place, secure, without fear of releasing on you in the middle of a project. Lace and shawl knitters especially will appreciate that.

Addi Click Interchangeable Needles are available as:

The Addi Turbo Click Set:

Featuring the wonderfully smooth Nickel Plated Brass Needles with blunt tips, in 10 popular sizes: 3mm, 3.75mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm.

The Addi Turbo Click Set also features three pliable cord lengths of 24", 32" and 40". This is an excellent, all purpose set of interchangeable needles. Perfect for Merino, Silk, Alpaca, Microfiber, Milk and Bamboo Viscose Fibres.

The Addi Turbo Click Set also comes with a great carrying case with a suede lined interior, with room for all 10 sizes of interchangeable needles, cords and cord connector.

The Addi Turbo Lace Click Set:
Features electro static Nickel Plated Needles with a very defined tip, perfect for manipulating and working lace stitch techniques requiring precise manipulation of the stitches.

The Addi Lace Click Set features sizes 3.5mm, 3.75mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm and 8mm interchangeable needle tips, and five lengths of the extremely pliable Addi blue cords in 16", 20", 24", 32" and 40" lengths. A single connector is included to lengthen and join various lengths of cords.

Addi Natura Click Set:
Features Addi's fabulous Bamoo Needle Tips, with a defined, sharp tip. The bamboo is so nice and warm in the hands. Addi manufactures the best Bamboo Needle tips and the Natura Click Set comes with 8 sizes of needles including 3.5mm, 3.75mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm and 8mm. Cord lengths include 24", 32" and 40".

At Stix and Stones, we carry the full line of Addi Knitting Needles, including individual sizes of the Addi Turbo, Lace and Natura circular needles and Addi Turbo + Natura Double Point Needles.

Extra cord lengths and connector sets for the Addi Click line are sold separately.

To order Addi Knitting Needles and accessories using a Credit Card, contact Stix & Stones at 705-223-8245. We ship worldwide using Canada Post.

Take care and thank you for your continued support.

Ms. Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones
North Bay, Ontario

New Arrival: Handmaiden Casbah at Stix & Stones.

2010-11-29T20:13:00.001-05:00

I am so thrilled to have finally received my first shipment of Handmaiden Casbah, a divine blend of 81% merino, 10% Cashmere and 9% Nylon. Casbah is put up in 115g/4oz skeins with 355yds/325m.

Casbah is hand dyed by Handmaiden Yarns in Vancouver, British Columbia and the colours they have developed for their yarn line are spectacular.

One touch of this yarn and you will be hooked. Fair warning! There are MCN yarns (merino-cashmere-nylon) and then there is Casbah! Treat your tootsies to some lovin' with this soft yarn. Delightful to knit with, fabulous to wear!

Handmaiden sources only the finest fibres from mills which meet their high standards for quality and this MCN Yarn blend takes time to be spun and then hand dyed. Some things are definitely worth waiting for!

Perfect timing for gifting that special knitter in your life. We received 15 great colours of Casbah, featuring both their Variegated and Semi-Solid Colours.

I invite you to visit Stix & Stones in North Bay, to view our selection of Hand Maiden Yarns, Kits and Patterns.

Stix & Stones Gift Certificates and Gift Baskets
Stix & Stones Gift Certificates are the perfect stocking stuffer for the fibre loving individual in your life.

Stix & Stones Gift Certificates are available in any dollar amount you choose, or for specific upcoming instructional classes.

Stix & Stones is also happy to create a unique Fibre Fantasy Gift Basket, featuring skeins of quality hand knitting yarns, coordinating patterns, the best needles and accessories. Prices start at $40. Inquire at the store during your next visit or contact Stix & Stones at 705-223-8245 to order your gift basket for delivery via Canada Post. We ship across North America and around the world!

Thank you for your continued support and I look forward to seeing you at our retail location soon.

Rae Brenne.
Stix & Stones.
North Bay, Ontario.

Flirt by Sirdar

2010-11-23T07:04:00.000-05:00

Introducing Flirt by Sirdar of England at Stix & Stones.

While images of palm trees and sunny locales may be the furthest thing from your reality, we have a well-travelled clientele at Stix & Stones who winter in warmer locations and also there are many knitters who can appreciate bulkier, quick-knit garments, but never wear them, nor never knit them. For these knitters everything they choose to knit and wear has to be DK weight and finer. Enter Sirdar Flirt.

Flirt is put up in a 50g ball with 92m /104 yds and knits on a suggested needle size of 4mm.

Flirt is the perfect consideration for finer gauge knits. Flirt is a soft blend of 80% Bamboo Sourced Viscose and 20% Wool, dyed in a sophisticated colour palette for adults, including a lovely bronze and silver metallic and deep rich purple and pink.

Flirt provides wonderful drape, good stitch definition and has a silky, cool feeling next to the skin, making this an investment yarn for year round wear.

Sirdar, as always, has lovely pattern support for Flirt and these designs are refined classics, perfect for the office, entertaining or at your winter resort.

I invite you to visit Stix & Stones in North Bay to view our selection of Sirdar and other fine knitting and crochet yarns or contact us at 705-223-8245 to discuss colours and quantities. We use Canada Post for mail order world wide.

Take care and thank you for your continued support.

Rae Brenne
Stix and Stones
North Bay, Ontario.

Luxury Yarn Knitting Night: December 08, 2010

2010-11-16T08:10:00.000-05:00

Luxury Yarn Knitting Night!

Stix & Stones invites you to join us on Wednesday, December 8, 2010 from 6pm to 9pm for our Luxury Yarn Knitting Night!

At this event participants will receive a fantastic goody bag of luxury yarns featuring Cashmere, Silk and Angora, as well as multiple patterns for these yarns!

We will work on a few sample pieces to see first hand why yarns like Cashmere and Silk get such high praise from knitters!

The pattern projects will be geared towards quick and easy gift knits and accessories.

We will also discuss washing and blocking techniques for these quality fibres while enjoying appetizers, treats and beverages.

We will also have a draw for a Luxury Yarn Gift Basket!

So gather your friends and make it a fun night out with other fibre loving enthusiasts!

Cost is $35 per person.

Be sure to call 705-223-8245 and reserve your seat quickly as this event is almost sold out and seats are on a first come first serve basis.

We hope you can join us!

Rae Brenne.

Dream In Colour Yarns At Stix & Stones

2010-11-15T07:37:00.001-05:00

I am pleased to announce the arrival of Dream In Colour Yarn to Stix & Stones in North Bay!

I am introducing Dream In Colour Hand Painted Yarn in two weights:

Classy: Worsted Weight Hand Painted 100% Merino Wool put up in 100g Skeins with 250yd/229m.

This yarn was made famous by the popular Tulip Cardigan designed by Lindsay Pekny for Dream In Colour

I have Classy in the following colours:

Here are two very cute patterns featuring Classy, free for members of Ravelry:

• A Colourful Hat For Baby by Amanda Kathleen Morgan.

• Diamond Hand Wrist Warmers by Micah Hazlett - 2 pair from one skein - one for you one to gift!

Smooshy: Sock Weight Hand Painted 100% Merino Wool put up in 100g Skeins with 450yds/411m.

I have ordered 7 colours of Smooshy to start and of course, if you have any request for a favourite shade of Dream In Colour Yarn, contact me at 705-223-8245 or visit our store in North Bay and we can discuss your special order.

Plenty of pattern support for this Sock Weight which means it's great for shawls, baby patterns, Socks and have a look at these free patterns for Smooshy available on Ravelry - too cute!

Darling Darby Sweater by Jean Clement

Cubist Sock by Cookie A.

Thank you for your continued support and I look forward to showing you the Dream In Colour Yarn line at your next visit to the store! See you soon.

Ms. Rae Brenne
Stix & Stones
stixandstonesnb@gmail.com

Noro Kirameki: New For Autumn/Winter 2010.

2010-11-09T09:42:00.001-05:00

Introducing Noro Kirimeki: a 4-Ply Weight of hand spun, hand dyed yarn from Japan with amazing yardage, great earthy and vibrant colours, perfect for shawls, light weight knit cardi's and accessories.

Kirimeki is is a blend of Viscose ~ Nylon ~ Wool ~ Cashmere, producing great stitch definition with beautiful drape and put up in a 50g ball with a generous 452 meters of yarn.

One 50g ball will make a shawl or generous scarf. Follow these links to view projects on Ravelry made with Kirimeki including Citron by Hilary Smith Callis, published in Knitty Magazine.

I invite you to stop by our store to view our selection of Kirimeki and the Noro Yarn Collection or call us at 1-705-223-8245 to place a secure phone order. We ship worldwide by Canada Post.

Take care and thank you for your continued support.

Rae Brenne
Stix & Stones
stixandstonesnb@gmail.com