HRYC

In the run-up to Handmade 2012, we've put together a list of classes that will be super awesome and we KNOW will sell out fast. If you're in two minds about any, book! Trust us, these teachers are fantastic and you will come away being a better crafter for it.

Twice the Fun - Two Handed Stranded Knitting

Expert level class taught by Morag McKenzie

If you've ever wanted to improve your colourwork skills, GO TO THIS CLASS. It's that simple.

Spinning A Yarn

Beginner level taught by Frances Strachl

Lots of people have been asking about spinning classes lately, and I must say i'm now addicted to spinning. Learn how to use a drop spindle - the best, most portable way of entering the world of spinning yarn.

This is my spinning, on a spindle made by the amazing Frances. Don't judge me, i'm still learning!

Just Add Beads

Skilled level taught by Stella Lange

A class i'd take if there was a chance to run away from the Knit Lounge for a couple of hours. I've a pretty strong suspicion beads in knitting is one of those trends that will start to emerge over the next couple of years so this is the perfect way to get in and learn early.

Have you booked in yet? What are you going to? Are you trying something completely and totally new or taking the leap to upgrade your skills? Let us know!

Tash's super talented Grandmother, Margaret Stove, featured on local tv show 'Hearts and Crafts' this past weekend.

Unfortunately we can't embed the video into this post, but if you click here it will take you to watch the show.

Enjoy!

Handmade 2012 is approaching super duper fast, so we're starting to get pretty excited. We'll be posting a bunch over the coming weeks, including a few guest posts from various teachers and presenters.

Firstly though, you can come and learn to knit socks! Tash will be accompanying Belinda of Blendy Knits in the teaching of the skills you need to knit yourself some super cosy socks. They are honestly one of the best gifts you can give, and are a fantastic vehicle to carry great yarn and fun patterns.

In the class you'll knit a tiny sock - learning magic loop, short rows, and kitchener stitch along the way.

A teeeny tiny sock just like what you can make with us!

Teeny tiny sock with normal size sock (which you'll be knitting in no time!)

If last year is anything to go by, it's wise to book in for classes in advance, which you can do here. We've also started a Handmade 2012 thread in the Holland Road Yarn Co Ravelry forum, so if you're coming along be sure to let us know!

One of the most wonderful things about the internet and social media, I find, are the small magic moments where a friend shares something, you click through, and that something speaks to you so very deeply.

'How Many Times Should You Say "I Love You"?' by Christine Defrancisco is one such moment.

'Our tragedy is that we believe something can only be beautiful when it is rare. We exist in a society that dismisses the beauty in everyday life. We overlook the small, fleeting moments that make up our day...'

Truth. Life is hectic, and slowly I've learned that my favourite moments are not the big ones: rather, they are the small simple things that bring a momentary sense of peace, a feeling that all is well with the world.This morning, it was a smile from the guy I bought bread from at the Riverbank Market, standing at the shop counter drinking the first long black of the day, and a text from a friend that simply said 'HAPPY'. Our joy doesn't need momentous occasions.

You may be wondering how on earth this is relevant to a yarn store. Every day we have the pleasure of sharing new things with new people, introducing someone to Ravelry for the first time, witnessing that first 'Malabrigo Experience', seeing you light up over the possibility of an exciting new project. And we get to see first hand how important it is for everyone to make some sort of connection to each other. Knit Night continues to get bigger every week - we're on the hunt for more chairs so that we can fill the entire shop from front to back with happy knitters. Because if we can bring people together, and introduce you to someone new - that totally makes our day.

If you haven't been to Knit Night before, and are worried about not knowing anyone: come anyway. You never know who you might meet.

A little magic - I love watching the faces of people as they go by, not quite sure what to make of the orchestra flash mob. (And trying to spy familiar faces!).

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra flash mob to celebrate the release of 'Good for Nothing' (in cinemas 3 May).