Yesterday I gave you some of the background on the cover of this year’s Holiday Catalog.  What I didn’t include was a shot from the photoshoot:

I think it’s just magical how shots like this come to life.

Okay – enough about the cover.  Time to talk about some of the great things happening INSIDE the catalog.  Remember, the printed catalogs are working their way across the country.  My graphic designer based here has yet to receive hers, but her Mom in Wisconsin received her last week. I’ll never understand the postal service.  If you can’t wait or aren’t currently on our mailing list, you can check the catalog out ONLINE.

There are 46 projects in the holiday catalog – 9 of which are FREE!  Consider them our gift to you.   I think they are a nice mix of quick knits and more involved projects.  I love being able to offer our own Valley Yarns designs to you for free, but I love the relationships we have with our vendors which gives us the ability to showcase their yarns and offer a free pattern as well.  Let me highlight a few for you:

First up is the Lavendar Ribbed Hat knit in Valley Yarns Northfield.

The allure of this hat is the attention to the details and the fact that it’s knit on smaller needles than usual for Northfield.  This means the fabric is dense and cozy and will keep you warm no matter how cold it gets this winter.

Our Spotted Christmas Stocking knit in Berkshire Bulky will not only be fun to knit, but fast!

Berkshire Bulky is available in 40 colors so don’t feel compelled to stick to the traditionall red/green combo.

The Herringbone Scarf is a showstopper.  Designed and knit by Dori – the absolute best, smartest, most amazing-est knitter around and long-time WEBS Store Associate, this scarf is spectacular:

The picture really doesn’t do it justice.  Dori used our 2/10 Merino Tencel blend which means the finished fabric is warm, drapes beautiful, has a lovely sheen and can easily be dressed up or down.

From Knitty.com we are featuring Thermal:

We reknit this dynamite top in our Huntington.  The waffle stitch is designed to be stretchy and close fitting.  Thermal makes a great layering piece.  Remember ALL KNITTY.COM PATTERNS MUST BE DOWNLOADED FROM KNITTY.COM!

From our friends at Tahki/Stacy Charles comes this gorgeous shawl pattern knit in Gioiello:

We’ve had this shawl in the shop for several seasons and it continues to be a favorite.  Gioiello is a yummy blend of merino and kid mohair (plus some cotton, acrylic and nylon) and features a multi-color palette with just a slight hint of glitz.  This shawl only takes 2 balls!  Again, the Gioiello Shawl Pattern can be downloaded at www.tahkistacycharles.com.

Last, but not least is Drift from Berroco and knit in their new fall yarn Vintage:

Love Drift.  Love, love, love.  The style is beautiful and Vintage is an easy care yarn so you can machine wash this sweater!  Pattern can be found at here.

Remember, these are only a few of the 40+ projects we are featuring so be sure to check them all out!

What are you adding to your project queue?

Kathy

This year’s holiday catalog is out and working it’s way across the country to your mailbox!  With this issue we are also launching our on-line catalog.  You can browse the pages, click through to add items to your wishlist or shopping cart and then zip right back to the catalog.  No worries – the print version is not going anywhere!  The online catalog is something many folks have been asking for and we’re happy to offer option.

One of the things that makes the Holiday Catalog different from the others we send throughout the year is the cover.  Rather than showing a model in a garment we get to have a  little fun and create something whimsical and inspiring. 

The first holiday catalog we mailed back in 2006 featured Woolly:

Woolly rocked.  Everyone loved Woolly.  He is the bar that all Holiday Covers are measured against.  I will love him forever.

In 2007, this was our cover:

I really liked it but it wasn’t quite Woolly.  Still very adorable and fun.

Last year was this:

My least favorite.  No comparison.

So, as we started planning for this year’s catalog, the line was drawn in sand.  The cover must be spectacular.  It must measure up to Woolly, if not exceed.  That was my challenge to myself and my team.  We bantered around a lot of ideas and it was Mary in our Marketing Department who came up with this year’s concept – cookies.

I loved the idea, but I will be honest, as we began to move forward with the concept I became nervous.  Skeptical even.  I really wasn’t sure if the cookie idea was going to be able to deliver the same emotion that Woolly did.  I was worried I wouldn’t love it.

Once the cookies were completed and ready to go to photography I was silently panicking.  Our timeline was tight and if I didn’t love the shot it was going to mean I was either going to have to live with it or pull everyone together and come up with something else which would have been nearly impossible.

The only people I said anything too was our designer and photographer.  They have worked a lot of magic for me but I just didn’t think they could take the cookies and create a shot that I loved.

Color me wrong.

They sent me back about 6 or 8 possibilities, all slightly different.  Each of them took my breath away.  Although the team wasn’t in 100% agreement, I made the final decision. 

I LOVE the cover.  I cannot possibly find enough adjectives to express how MUCH I love it.  It’s perfect.  It can stand proudly next to Woolly.  My thanks to Mary for the idea and early prototypes, to Kirsten for creating the cookies, to Linda for brainstorming with us and of course to Penny & David who turned all of our hardwork into this beautiful shot. 

Tomorrow I’ll share with you some of the great projects and gift ideas INSIDE the catalog.

Remember, if you haven’t received yours yet, you can check out our NEW on-line catalog here.

Kathy

Our Fall Catalog started mailing last week.  The launch of a new catalog is always an exciting time for us. 

If yours hasn’t arrived yet, don’t worry, it’s working it’s way through the mail stream to you. In the meantime, let’s look at a few of the highlights, shall we?

The stunning cover image is courtesy of our dear friends at Berroco.  The Nuss Cardigan from booklet #288 Blackstone Tweed is a garment we’ve talked about previously.  Knit in Berroco’s new Blackstone Tweed, Nuss has an interesting construction and nice fit.

One of my favorites that I insisted be in the catalog is Potter from Norah Gaughan Vol. 5: 

Knit in Berroco Pure Merino, I fell in love with this jacket the moment I saw pictures of it last spring.  I’m not a huge yellow fan, although I’ve been told I can pull off the color, but there is something about this jacket, yellow or otherwise that really speaks to me. 

Another design that I’ve reference previously here on the blog and on our podcast is the Riding Jacket from The Big Easy booklet knit in Donegal Luxury Tweed Chunky from Debbie Bliss. 

The simplicity of the silhouette immediately grabbed my attention – you know I love classic styles that look like you put a ton of work into them but in the end weren’t so difficult. 

The Lace & Bobble Cardigan from Classic Elite Booklet #9102 – Weekend - didn’t really impress me until Betsy came to the shop to give the store staff an overview of new fall yarns & designs. 

It looked great on everyone that tried it on and it’s knit in Classic Elite’s new yarn Chesapeake.

When Diane & Stacy from Tahki/Stacy Charles came to visit, they both knew I’d be head over heels for this next garment.

Score a point for them.  I love Eileen from the S. Charles Collezione Modern Living booklet – simple, clean lines, feminine.   Knit in Tivoli, a new yarn from the sophisticated S. Charles Collezione, the design and the yarn are both homeruns in my knitting book.

One quick yarn shout-out to  Centolavaggi (prononounced Chento-la-va-ggi) which could also be known as Zara laceweight.  Diane & Stacy had a random skein of this with them many, many months ago and asked what we thought of it.  At 1531 yards of gorgeous Italian Extra Fine Merino that is superwash no less and priced at only $19.95 I asked them how soon we could have it.  Had to wait a little longer than we would have liked, but it’s here now!

There is a never ending parade of new sock yarns coming into WEBS that it’s almost hard to keep track of them all.  One fun addition for fall is Flusi 4-Ply Color from Regia.  Flusi has a fun little story that is actually supported by a story book. 

The balls are 50 grams so two are needed for a pair of socks.  The colors are bright and whimsical, just like Flusi himself.  I love a good story and good marketing always catches my attention.

On the Valley Yarns front, I posted several weeks ago about our fall shoot which was held at Pioneer Valley Vineyards.  The pictures in the catalog are just stunning.  Here are a few of our own highlights.

First up, is our NEW Northampton Bulky, knit up in Zephyr Style pattern Juliet.  This was the perfect choice for this yarn. 

Again, this is one of those great designs that just looks great on everyone and that’s saying something for a garment that has a gauge of 3 stitches/inch.

We’re also excited to debut our new Valley Superwash DK.  Twenty hardworking colors are presented in this 5.5 stitches/inch sister to our worsted weight Valley Superwash.  We have lots of design ideas for this yarn, as I’m sure do as well!  For a quick project (or early holiday gift) Mary in Marketing whipped up these adorable amigurumi critters from teh book Super-Cute Crochet by Nicki Trench.

The Hawthorne Textured Cardi has been a favorite of mine since I saw the finished design. 

Knit using our gorgeous tweed Valley Yarns Williamstown, this cardi has a bit more attitude and although tweeds can often be seen in more casual looks, Williamstown simply shines.

Our wildly popular Gallery Jacket was reknit in our rich brown and now has a completely new look! 

Valley Yarns Sheffield was used in both the original design and this remake, but the change of color is really stunning.  It’s shiney and new all over again!

My last favorite is the Point & Line Cardigan. 

Knit in our 100% merino Amherst, this cardigan is the perfect fall wardrobe addition.  It’s functional in that it will keep you toasty, but has a nice feminine look.

We have one other new product for the fall.  It is so big and we’re so excited that it deserves it’s own blog post.  So, until tomorrow!

Kathy

A couple of weeks ago we had our photoshoot for our next catalog.  The June edition is always dedicated to just our own line, Valley Yarns.  For the rest of the industry it’s sort of an in between time – spring yarns have been out and about for awhile and fall is not quite ready yet.  The new catalog has a ton of new designs, a new yarn and new colors in many of our existing yarns.  You should be seeing it in your mailbox in mid-June.

For this shoot, we decided to showcase the beautiful downtown right in Northampton.  We are fortunate to have a vibrant downtown full of great shops, restaurants, theaters and more.  The architecture is so pretty and the character of our town really shines through.

Doing a shoot in a bustling area, moving locations, etc., presents it’s own set of challenges.  Often we’re in a park or other less busy location.  Since we’re celebrating 35 years in business this year, I felt showcasing the community where we’re based was important.  We did talk about also doing part of the shoot in Amherst, where WEBS was founded, but that became very complicated.   Let me share a little bit from behind the scenes.

Here is our model Jessica getting primped for a shot:

Trying to get the perfect shot:

I am so in love with this crochet scarf:

Even though Jessica isn’t a knitter, we got her channeling her inner fiber artist:

Finally, my camera did not do this last shot justice.  We were fortunate that this dogwood was in bloom with the most delicate pink petals and the sun was shining through its branches in a way that took my breath away.  The color worked beautifully with the color of our wrap.:

One of those magical photoshoot moments that you just can’t plan for.

I can’t wait for the catalog to be printed!  Thanks to David, Penny, Bradley, Mary, Angie and Jessica for making all of the garments come to life so beautifully.  A big thanks to Kirsten for all of her hardwork and to all of our knitters too!

Kathy

I’m glad you all liked the video I did last week featuring a couple of our newest Valley Yarns Designs.  The feedback was pretty clear about wanting to see the garments on a model, so a garments on a model is what you will get!

Before you watch the video, I do want to point out a couple of things.  This is the first time we’ve tried this format and yes, there are definitely areas for improvement.  Be kind in your comments and bear with me, okay?

Secondly, it’s obvious that my video equipment needs an upgrade.  One of the things I am unhappy with in this video is how difficult it is to see the detail, especially on the Space Heater sweater.  It’s partially due to the color of the garment – those darker colors are always a challenge to photograph and it’s no different on video.  I think sound quality also continues to be an issue.  It’s not awful, but not as clear as I’d like it to be.  Yeah, I know, I’m fussy.

So, I hope you enjoy this.  This clip features three designs from our Spring catalog, the Space Heater Pullover knit in Northampton, the Hanging Garden Cardigan knit in Colrain Lace (2/10 Merino/Tencel) and the Tanglewood Cascading Cardigan which was originally knit in Lenox, but we’ve given it new life as a spring garment in Southwick.

Let me know what you think.  Do you feel that three garments makes the video too long?  Would you prefer seeing two garments at a time  or would you prefer to see each garment done as a separate video?  I really want to make these videos what you want them to be so let me know your thoughts!

Kathy

Our new spring catalog has begun arriving to all of you.  This is always an exciting time for us back at the shop – wondering what you’re going to like, not like, etc.  We are always particularly anxious about the new Valley Yarns designs that we debut.  These are our babies and we love them and always hope that you do too. 

Our local customers have the advantage of seeing the garments in person.  No matter how great a job we do with our photography, seeing the design in person is simply the best.  So I thought we should try something new – try to give those of you who shop on-line with us a better feel for the garments.  I’ve taped a short video describing two of our new spring designs, the inspiration behind it, the construction, etc.  For those of you who read this blog regularly, you know I’ve been fooling around with video off and on for a few months now.  I’ve still got a lot to learn about shooting video, etc. so bear with me.  This first one isn’t bad, but there are already things I know I want to do differently next time.

First up, I discuss the Trumpet Flower Cardigan knit in Valley Yarns Goshen, then it’s onto the Closed Bud Lace Coat in Valley Yarns Sheffield.

What do you think?  Like the idea?  Want to see more of these?  What else would you like us to do via video?

Kathy

Well, it appears that 2009 is going to be similar to 2008 in at least one way.  Speed of Time.  Despite my determination to slow the pace down a bit, 2009 just doesn’t appear to want to cooperate.  Rather than fight a losing battle all year long, I’ve decided to make peace with 2009 and it’s Speed Racer tendencies.  I will gladly zip along the days and weeks with you, on one condition.  I  have the right to shift us into first gear every now and again.  I might even slam the breaks on once or twice.   I’m hopeful that 2009 will be agreeable to my requests.  Wouldn’t want to get into a tussle with an entire year.  Only time will tell.

Last week was a crazy week (I know, you are all surprised beyond belief).  We got the kids back to school (Hurray!) only to have a snow day on Wednesday (Boo!).  Worst part of that was not only was Wednesday a snow day, it was the day of our Kate Jacobs event.

We’re hearty here in New England and Kate, well, consummate professional and trooper are terms that come to mind.  Despite our lower than expected turn out, she was gracious and engaging.  I always get a wee bit nervous at these events.  We plan, we advertise, we spiffy up the place and then all we can do is hope.  Yes, we take pre-registrations so we always have an idea of the numbers, but in reality, until folks are in the door and sitting down, nothing is definite.

We have some signed books still available and another 20 or so with signed bookplates.  If you are interested, please stop in and pick up a copy.  Or if you are ordering on-line, specify you want a signed copy.  When they’re gone, they’re gone.

Next day was our catalog shoot.  The shoots take a ton of prep and organization to make sure we are using our time efficiently. 

I think we got some great shots and I’m so excited about the new designs we have coming.  Our team did a great job.

I cannot wait to get the catalog printed and in the mail to all of you.  I am particularly interested in your response to the cover.  I will say this publicly, it was 100% my choice and Steve and the other folks who’s opinions matter to me were not very supportive.  Personally, I love it.   I hope you do too.

So, it’s going to be a crazy week (again, shocker of all shockers).  We have new spring yarns rolling in, Steve has been buying closeouts like a drunken sailor and we’re off to TNNA, the industry buying show.  I’m hoping to capture some cool videos at the show and maybe give you a few sneak peeks along the way.

Oh, and for those who are interested, here’s Jonathan at his first full-ice scrimmage:

Stay tuned! 

Kathy

P.S.  So how is 2009 treating you so far?

Sorry for not posting sooner. The weekend was crazy with Twist and I took off yesterday for a business trip.

Alrighty now! I have my new camera and I have to say – I love it! It’s small and lightweight and sleek and oh so pretty! It’s not as fancy as my last camera, but it did so much more than I needed it to do.

Let’s toss up a test picture and see what we think:

Now that’s a mighty fine looking picture, if I do say so myself. Look at the Blue Sky Alpaca – the cotton is in the foreground and the alpaca/silk is towards the back. Colors look good!

I was running out, so I only had a few moments to snap a couple of shots.

It was my turn for the baseball camp carpool – 4 sweaty, filthy boys, exhausted, boys. All four talked the entire way home – all at the same time. To have that energy after 6 1/2 hours of baseball camp in the 90 degree/high humidity weather. . . . . . .

Let’s test another shot:

Ah, the Artyarns display looks JUST like that! Woohoo!

Okay, one last test shot:

This is the display at the front of the store. It is currently featuring several of our new Valley Yarns designs from our latest catalog. The color on the felted bags is a bit muddy, but dark colors are always tough without really good lighting. The store lighting is great, but it’s certainly not meant for photography.

Kathy

Have you received yours yet? Our June 2008 catalogs mailed about 10 days ago, so if yours hasn’t arrived yet, keep checking your mail! For those of you who have received the catalog, I think you like it! Customer Service and Shipping have been crazy and I hear many customers are coming into the store, catalog in-hand and already dog-earred and notated for project selection!

Here’s the cover:

What I love about our June catalog, is that it features just our Valley Yarns line. They are always included in our other catalogs, when we also highlight the best from all of our favorite yarn distributors. I just love having this one issue where we can really showcase our yarns and our fabulous designs!

The early favorites seem to be the Firmaments Lace Shawl, knit in 2/14 Alpaca/Silk, the Diagonal Mesh Shawl, knit in Goshen and the Quilted Diamond Vest knit in Berkshire. I’m pretty tickled about the Diamond Vest. It has been a general design concept that I’ve had in my head for sometime. Linda, our Customer Service Manager finally got tired enough of listening blab on about wanting a chunky, outdoorsy vest and finally figured it out!

One of my personal favorites is the Staghorn Cable Tunic which is knit in Northampton. This garment will be featured on the podcast as our next knitalong. I have it with me on this trip and although I’ve hit a bit of a roadblock, I am still loving the pattern and cannot wait to wear it!

There are plenty of adorable designs for summer knitting such as the Striped Pullover designed by Mary Beth Temple and knit in Southwick and also in Southwick, the stunning cover sweater – the Ladder and Vine Cardi.

There are also two adorable baby items knit in Longmeadow – the Eyelet and Garter Baby Blanket and the Sweet Sabina Cardigan.

What’s your favorite?

If you haven’t yet received the Valley Yarns Catalog, be patient. If you are not on our mailing list and would like to receive a catalog, just email customerservice@yarn.com all of your pertinent mailing info and we’ll be happy to send one out to you!

Kathy