SistahCraft

The Aliens Have Returned Me!

Where I Was Seen Last During The Summer…

 

(I only got up for a moment; The Silver Spinner, my Ashford Kiwi wheel, custom painted and tricked out to be portable, by the handsome Dave Paul of The Merlin Tree. All pics enlarge.)

Hey there everybody!!!

I want to thank all of you who expressed concern for me. And since I do care about your feelings, I'm not gonna lie––I was not a candidate for the visitors; I was right here on earth.

Honestly? I just didn't have the time to spend online, so I had to take a break. Fall/winter became very busy, between work at the magazine, and my work in knit product development. With the hours I had left, I directed my energies to living, because I am not under the self-help book inspired illusion that one can have or do it all––that's for the deities. And maybe the aliens.

I finished some intense design commitments, then acquired skill in a new medium––hand spinning––in order to refocus my eyes, and find new inspiration. I'm now feeling renewed and refreshed,  just in time for the return of spring! 

But, as the daffodils are moving up, some things have moved on. Here are two announcements, so you won't be unpleasantly surprised when you visit NYC.

Last Stitches

The start of this year has seen the closing of two yarn shops. The first, Yarn Connection (218 Madison Avenue at 36th Street), was a favorite haunt of mine for over 20 years. Arriving at the top of the stairs to Jane Young's jewel box of a shop on the second floor, you were often greeted by boxes of the latest yarns stacked in the hallway; my heart would immediately start to palpitate with cupidity. Her staff was the nicest, both patient and helpful to everyone, and they had the best sale bins for designer yarn in the city. Yes folks, this was where a frugal gal could look good. I admit I didn't go to the final sale. I would've started to cry, embarrassing everyone. For a last look at the shop, go to Heidi Cohen's  Knitted Yarns. Jane, I wish you  the best!

The second to cast off, was Stitches East (55 East 52nd Street, lobby 3). This elusive but spacious boutique, discretely called bitches east by disgruntled patrons, catered to well dressed, advanced knitters and needle pointers who lunched. Indeed, on the rare occasion I stopped in, I was actually treated decently––probably owing to wearing a not-too-vintage designer suit, and running off to meet friends for a sweet lunch at that venerated New York institution, Serendipity.  But, regardless of the mixed reviews, it's still a loss for midtown center––where will the swells stitch now? Perhaps Knitting 321 (321 East 75th Street), will pick up the ball. It's expensive, caters to knitches (from what I've heard), and you can lunch at Swifty's!

Yes y'all, the knitting magpie is back!!

When Dates Collide––More Announcements!

Take Time…

(This smelled so good, it was worth the work! It may be "Veterans Honor." I'm new at this, so please correct me, if I'm wrong. All pics enlarge).

It's a shame when it takes a darn chest cold to sideline me, from attending all of the goings on of my creative friends. On the upside, it should keep me still enough to get some knitting, er, completion in, but my brain's too fuzzy, and my legs too itchy for that right now––the result of cold medicine and bug bites from working on the roses I saved from neglect, at the building next door.

But even though I'm flat on my booty, I hope the upcoming announcements will have y'all who are either in, or traveling to NYC––to get yours to them. Enjoy, (and if you touch your screen, wash your hands––my cold is that bad).

Find Your Way

The Harlem Girl's Quilting Circle presents––Stitching Our Stories: Quilt Art by Our Community’s Children. It's taking place at the Countee Cullen Branch Library, 104 West 136th Street, New York City. The Artists Reception is now, from 4:00PM to 7:00PM (darn, cough); the exhibition will run until August 27. For info and group visits, contact the library; 212 - 491 - 2070. Curated by my sistahs-in-quilt, Michelle Bishop and Laura R. Gadson, this wonderful project is led by Laura R. Gadson, Robyn Mahone-Lonesome, and Valerie Deas. The works are by the fabulous students from:  The Mahalia Jackson School, PS 123, The Adam Clayton Powell School, IS 172, and The Richard Rodgers School, PS 96. The former schools in Manhattan and the latter, in my borough, the Bronx. Represent!     

Run Away To This!

Knitters, please don't work late, 'cause tomorrow, June 21st, from 6-8p.m. at Knitty City, 208 West 79th St. near Amsterdam Ave. in Manhattan, my acquaintance and inspiration, Berta Karapetyan, the author of Runway Knits: 30 Fashion-Forward Designs and her top-flight sales rep, Diana, will be in the house to answer any questions about her new book, the techniques she used in creating her designs (which I'll be really sorry to miss, cough), fashion styling and, of course, her yarns. If you haven't read my review on her book, just scroll down.

Karabella yarns are well-known for their quality. In addition, if you wish to special order the yarns for some of the styles in the show, provisions will be made just for you! Now, if you are still not quite convinced, some of her creations are on display in the window.

Rambo Trots Down The Road!

My final news, before I go lie down, is for all you sheep lovers world-wide. It was heard before, to the response of "yeah, right." Back in January, when I visited the Big Merino, in Goulburn, Australia, I was told it was going to be moved down the road (to catch up, you can read my post about this eighth wonder of the world). Well doggonit, it happened! This just in from my friend, artist Joan Ross. Check these links out, for a real eyebrow raiser!!!

The Story, and The Pictures.

Skipping Across the Pond––News Before I Break Out Again!

When I Wasn't Knitting…

Before––In late April to early May––major neglect               In June––after pruning and fertilizing

I became "The Guerrilla Gardener of Bronx Park East" (Mr. K's expression), devoted to caring for the horticulture of mine and my neighbors' buildings. If there are any rosarians out there, please help me identify this Old Garden Rose; it smells terrific! (all pics enlarge).

All You Need Is Love (And Knitting)

Happy World Wide Knit In Public Day! I hope everyone felt the collective Morse code of love, coming from the clicking needles of knitters all over the world!  Sit N' Knit, NYC  gathered at Sheep Meadow, in Central Park, doing their bit to encourage more love to emanate from our hearts to our hands and outwards. Hola, ladies! I'm happy nature was on your side today; but in case she changed her mind dearest Anne-Marie, there was always the number six train, tee hee.

As for me––busy as usual, but I can no longer work on this computer without feeling guilty about posting. Therefore, I'm going to take a minute to get away from this project, and engage in some productive procrastination. And boy, has there been some news…

Feet Don't Fail Me Now!

Despite the wet and cold weather that confronted the Dance Parade, where we left off back in May, folks came on through with the energy of purpose; check out The Melting Pot's link for photos and info on what's to come…

Or Go…Coney Island's Last Season!

The Melting Pot's Sandcastle's Summer Series Dance Party has fabulously started with a bang! The next party will take place again on Saturday, June 23 from 2 pm to 10 pm; as the name implies, they embrace everyone (even kids––remember, dancing improves coordination). So, grab your needles, snacks and even your non-knitting friends (they can sit on the blanket and mind your work while you get your step on. On the serious tip, though––if you are either traveling to NYC or live here, and haven't been to this landmark amusement park––this is your last chance. A Real estate developer is gonna erase part of our city's history, so please take the time to read The Village Voice's article about this fight. It's getting ugly.

We've Gone Native!

(Excuse the  artsy-looking photo; we're eeking out the last of the light. Clockwise form left; Shameka; Njoya (Harlem Knitting Circle), Saunielle (Saunshine), Sherry (Chronicles of She), Hope (Hopie Knits); not included in photo––myself and Zenobia Bailey).
 

Last week, I was graced with the presence of the abundantly talented Saunielle (of Saunshine fame), for a four day visit (do y'all really walk a lot here? I never even think about it). In her honor, a cadre of us got together for a Knit n' Sip, at my fave, fave, fave, eatery––Brian Washington Palmer's Native Restaurant. This Harlem melting pot just gets better and better! A big shout out and thanks to the dashing Delano, who hooked us up with the best seats and service; he's become inspired to learn to knit and crochet, so brothers, I'ma add one more to the ranks. You know, he's so creative, I can't wait to see what he starts making. And, a shout out to the mixer of the moment, Jose´, for providing us with drinks that dropped our attitudes, but not our stitches! And Brian––you're simply the best.

  On the left; Chante´, Njoya, and Saunielle. On the right, fiber artist Zenobia Bailey, featured in the first anniversary issue of Black Purl Magazine.

Now, About That Pond

I am being whisked off by Mr. K to London for a week, leaving tomorrow night! To be honest, I wasn't quite as excited about it, as I was about sewing Swarovski crystals and bugle beads on a silk tape dress I'm working on for a boutique, jaded designer that I am. But then my uterus hi-jacked my body, for a few days, taking my focus with it. Oh well.

I'm now very excited, as this will be an inspirational trip for me, despite being in a nation of people, I was told, who all behave like John Cleese. My itinerary is lined up, and no, I'm not buying any yarn; I'm looking for oddities (like John Cleese).

Okay, time to take another Panadeine, and then pack. I'll wave at y'all tomorrow, before my flight. Any suggestions––holla!

Now, Where Were We?

Playing Catch Up…

(Here's Della, the "IT" bull, in the Signature Sweater I machine knitted for Posh Paws of Manhattan, which officially opened last Saturday).

Hey There!

Gosh, so much has happened during the past coupla weeks, in the knitting and non-knitting world. I'ma try and pack it all in, so here we go!

I want to thank you all for your thoughtful comments regarding the  honesty and consciousness that goes into the planning of your knitting. I received a few emails from those thinking I disliked variegated yarns, so I'll say this, then I won't say no more. I don't hate them. In my opinion––the key word here––is that when dyed well, you don't have funny color pooling, as Shaun mentions, and the shades, when knitted, have a nice transition, and are coherent-looking from a distance.

Now, check this out. Cotton should not hurt your hands. If you have  arthritis, are sensitive, or even have reservations about knitting or crocheting with this delightful warm weather fiber, go for an 80/20 wool-cotton mix; Cascade's Sierra is wonderful and inexpensive, with generous yardage. Another nice yarn is Berroco's Cotton Twist. This yarn is gotta touch it soft; it'll pill slightly though, so don't love it too strongly.

For the purists––Classic Elite's Provence. I'm currently knitting a lace shell of my own design for the store, and on Addi-Turbo needles, she is flying through my fingers. Here's a hint––do a lace, yarn over, or drop stitch pattern; something that doesn't require a lot of finger manipulation. Slip stitches are good too. Try it, and lemme know how it goes.

Don't Buy All of the Tickets, Or I Won't Win…Just Kidding!

This in from my girl Michelle Bishop, of the Harlem Girls Quilting Circle

The HGQC convenes monthly in sisterhood and fellowship to explore the techniques and artistry of quilting in the African and African-American Diaspora. Over the pass year, HGQC has gained notoriety through the media, most recently featured in The Quilter Magazine, and in Quilts Japan. Again, we have been selected to display our quilts at The Cork Gallery, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – June 30 to July 10, 2006 – This year's theme is Syncopated Threads––Feel the Rhythm, See the Music. HGQC is selling raffles to underwrite the production costs of an exhibit of this stature.

Yo, the photos, don't do justice to these authentically utilitarian beauties. Please email me, for her snail mail, to purchase a raffle. The Cork Gallery is a non-profit org. that provides groups with a highly visible venue to show their works; however, artists must foot the expense to mount their exhibition. The tickets are $5US, per raffle. The drawing takes place July 1, 2006 at the artists reception, and the winner need not be present. Thanks y'all and good luck!

What Else is New?

Smiley's, purveyors of the cheapest, decent yarn on the planet, is having an internet sale. The yarn I'm recommending?––Panda Woolbale! This 100% wool Australian sport is excellent, I tell ya! I'm knitting Bonne Marie's Twist Cardigan with it. Normally $3.99US per ball, it is $1.99US! Holy S**T! The colors are close to the screen. Trust me, you can't go wrong.

As the Mac Turns…

Go over to Ambrosia's blog and say congratulations to her! She graduated from college over the Mother's day weekend. If you want to give her a present, you know yarn would be nice, right sis?…this is as arresting as a traffic accident, but if you are a knitter who is faint-hearted, leave this link alone––from my dear Margie, of Inconsolable Memory, an art blog, from Sydney, Australia…If you are faint-hearted, the Knitting Room Project, from Tasmania, may be much more your speed; it's submitted by one of the sweetest people on earth, Victoria Harbutt, also from Sydney––thanks for that, their skill is amazing!

Row 1–Good News You Can Use!

One of My Knitting Icons…

A bit of history–These cards were sold by Ms. Truth, to earn her living. Carte de visite (seated), 1864.
Gladstone Collection, Prints and Photographs Division. Reproduction Number: LC-USZC4-6165 (3-11b). To learn more about her and her influential contribution to our country's history, check out The Sojourner Truth Institute of Battle Creek.

I'm Back!

It has certainly been a whirlwind time for The Magpie! And I have even been knitting! And I'm near the finish line of the UFO you would least expect. Let's say a carrot (or a BIG bag of birdseed) has been placed in front of me.

So Many Fish In the Sea!

One of the major things Mr. K and myself have been doing, were going to birthday parties. In fact, we have so many long time-friends born under this sign, I started to wonder. Asking around, I found out that several other friends have relatives, significant others, and friends born under Pisces. With birthday events still left to attend, I'm now speculating if this is the most crowded sign in the Zodiac! Counting back nine months–to June–it does make sense, but dammit–folks gotta slow down. Listen, if any of you out there are planning to have kids, please–be considerate and time their arrivals better. Remember, everyone is still paying off the debt from holiday shopping.

Dancing Keeps You Warm!

On Saturday night, the Dons of the Decks: DJ Bruce Tatum (club editor, Time Out NY) and DJ Adam Goldstone will serving up a "grand edition" of Whoville! at Love; 40 West 8th Street, at MacDougal Street (MacDougal Street entrance). Trust me, this party's gonna be fierce! It is Bruce's birthday, Andy "Andyman" Reynolds of Penetration Inc.'s birthday–he is also responsible for the Seuss-themed art installations–and the invited guest, spinning at prime-time is primo deck wrecker Jerome Sydenham of Ibadan Records–Sandcastles! Feet don't fail me now! Admission: $5US until 1am, $10US until 4am $15US after. And this is a beautifully diverse party, too!

"Carnaval," Will Make You Warmer!

On Sunday, the 718 Sessions, featuring my man DJ Danny Krivit, has teamed up with Alma, NYC, featuring the Brazilian brothers of soul, DJ True (a big shout out to ya'!) and Miller Cruz, to bring  Carnaval to New York! The Alma–soul, in Portuguese–link says it all! Knitters and crocheters, wear your wildest gear; this is gonna be seriously festive! My mask and costume are ready!

Maybe, I should wear the mask to: Flow: The Magazine's Trunk Show–a fashionable, small business expo purporting to highlight "the best Brooklyn has to offer." It's taking place at the Brooklyn Marriott,  on the same day, from 11am to 7 pm. I'll remove it at the Cocoachic booth, though–so I can try out and buy more of their fabulous products!

Big Up!

Now that the future is out of the way, I can change directions and step back in time, to the recent past.
Njoya Angrum, our Fearless Leader of HKC–Harlem Knitting Circle–was bestowed the distinction of being "The New Yorker of The Week," by NY1 news, last week. This is no small shout out, considering there are about 8 million people in this city, and only fifty-two weeks in a year. Let's all wave our needles and hooks in the air for this totally selfless and dedicated sister, a current heroine of mine, who I will be honoring next month. I'll keep you posted.

Well folks, the Magpie's pooped. Time to walk Della (imagine–a bird walking a dog), and work a little on her new coat–the UFO I'm suddenly finishing, ahead of the others I wrote about. She has an upcoming photo shoot for the opening of a new upscale pet shop, in Harlem.

To everyone else, looking for their mentions–don't worry, I'm continuing tomorrow, starting with my "Student of the Month," a trip back to Africa via the subway, and from there to Joe's Pub for a performance.

Geez, I need to lie down.

Down for The Count...Momentarily

Sniffle, Sneeze, Cough, Blow

Well folks, I'm done in, with a cold. Probably from all of the running around before my birthday, starting from the previous week (the flowers are from Mr. K.).

What's funny (sneeze), is that we were ready to lay low for a transit strike weekend. I suspect, a lot of folk were secretly looking forward to the excuse of the strike to release them from their holiday obligations; especially knitters, cause y'all really know what you'd rather be doing!

Well, the strike is over (cough).

So–since you sooo must go out, you knitters who love to twirl, can get that pre-Christmas aerobic workout, tonight at The Speakeasy, one of Loisadas' last remaining old-school spots. The man, whose been rockin' since he first started spinning as a youngun' Adam Goldstone, is playing an amazing collection of Latin/tribal house, (select casa 3), Merengue, Salsa, Mambo, Highlife, Worldbeat, Afrobeat, R & B, Cosmic Disco, Electro, and Dancefloor Jazz. Whew! If any of this music is new to you, please take the time to follow the links and enjoy! (cough)

Indeed, the lot of crowd who party here are primarily from Spain and Latin America, hence, the Latin music flavor. Drink prices are actually reasonable, and this is a fun-loving, friendly, mixed crowd, of nationality and gender preference. The best part, is, it's free! 151 Avenue C, between East 9th St. and East 10th St. Ring bell at stairway landing for entry. 10:30 pm till 4am. Discretionary door, so look and be nice.

Speaking of nice, I want to say THANKS to all of the wonderful birthday greetings I received from my friends in the blog-sphere; and a special shout out to Nancy, (I love the El train on her blog heading) for the e-card she sent me. My girl from the Bronx!

Now, my head may be stopped up, but my fingers can't stop for **&#%$@*! (Sneeze, blow)