Busman’s Holiday

I have never met a needlework shop I didn’t like, and I have never walked out of a single one without a bag of dreams. It could be considered a problem, if I didn’t get to call it “research”!

Take, for instance, this little heap of happiness:

There is some lace and sock-weight NORO – can’t resist the colors, not in love with the texture…………., some Juniper Moon Farms “Findley” – totally in love with everything but the price, some Darn Good Yarn “Sari Silk Ribbon” – terrific colors in yet another Fair Trade yarn – I’m wondering how it will compare to the sari ribbons we already carry, and, finally, some “Tetsu” by Ito which is silk and stainless steel like my current favorite from Habu. All of this lusciousness came from Purl’s in Asheville, NC. You should go there, if you’re close!!

Now, I doubt I need to tell you about Hillcreek Yarn Shoppe in Columbia, MO. I’d been hearing wonderful things, so we sidestepped off the interstate for a few yarny moments there. I found a beautiful drop spindle, a gorgeous wooden button and a little more NORO lace to try. I am also totally considering a triangle loom after seeing them here………….

Below, is a tiny stash from the Red Barn Yarn Farm in St. Jo. This stop was not technically on our trip, but rather on our way to pick up our puppy, afterwards. I was a little shopped-out by then, or I would probably be showing you some lovely alpaca that caught my eye. This petite shop had a lovely vibe and beautiful selections. There is that NORO, again…and, a Cascade contender I will be comparing to the Juniper Moon Farm “Findley”.

In New Bern, NC I found a stuffed-to-the-gills place where color totally ruled. Below is some thoroughly scrumptious silk from Araucania, color-drenched merinos from Sweet Georgia and a couple other less exciting choices I grabbed just for the colors.

Now, I like to do LOTS of things with fibers – Freeform Knitting & Crochet, and needlepoint are a couple of favorites – so, I’m always on the lookout for fibers that give me lots of options. Here are a few I plan to experiment with, mainly silks and silk/wool from the Sign of the Arrow in St. Louis.

All this shopping has overloaded me with possibilities. There is so much to try and to think about. I noticed huge differences between my little shop and all the others, and it made me so happy that we can all co-exist by following our hearts.