New beauties from Neighborhood Fiber Co.!
As more customers have received the Covid-19 vaccines, I've had increased questions about store policies and in-person events, so I wanted to share a quick update.
The short version is that Yarn Folk will continue to follow CDC and local public health recommendations.
While it is heartwarming that many of you have expressed affection for the shop as a "home away from home" (and goodness knows, it is mine), retail businesses are still considered public spaces. Masks are still required, and there is always a supply of disposable masks available here for your use. (As vaccinated folks have more opportunities for in-person, unmasked interactions, I know it's possible to be caught off-guard without one, and I don't want that to get in the way of your yarn-squishing.)
Current guidelines also mean that in-person gatherings are still on hold. Kittitas County remains in Phase 3, which limits retail store capacity to 50%. For Yarn Folk, that means 6-8 people at a time, which precludes holding social events for the time being.
I appreciate your understanding as we all navigate these tricky transitions. Throughout the pandemic, I have tried to make decisions based on compassion with the health and well-being of my family, my customers, and our larger community in mind--and I thank you for your support and your patience!
Current open hours are Monday - Friday, 7am-3:30pm, and Saturdays, 9am-3pm. In-store shopping: mask covering nose and mouth required for the duration of your visit. We continue to be mindful about making it possible to maintain social distancing in the shop.
…to learn (and do)
CURRENT CLASSES & EVENTS
Social Stitching via Zoom
Thursday, May 13, 4:00-6:00pm
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/981942707?pwd=TExyQlRPWnB3OW40QkFZRCs5aVRtQT09 OR open Zoom and enter 981-942-707 for the meeting ID
PASSWORD IS 330044.
Reminder: we've consolidated to just one Zoom event for now, but if you'd like to share project photos, chat, or share KAL progress, we'd love for you to create an account at yarnfolk.com and participate in the community we're building there. No intent to be yet another social network, but it's an option for sharing that doesn't depend on any outside platform. You can find it here.
Berroco Cardi Party
Friday, May 15th to Wednesday, June 23rd
Details below and here, hosted in the Berroco Makers Facebook Group.
...to anticipate
I am so excited to share that an order from Neighborhood Fiber Co. arrived last week!
There is fresh stock of Studio DK, Studio Sock, Suri Loft, and Cobblestone Roving. One of the big changes since the last time we restocked is that Studio DK and Studio Sock are both dyed on base yarns that are GOTS certified organic wool, which means that they are still machine-washable, soft, and vibrant, but that the processing is less harmful to the environment. Karida Collins, owner of Neighborhood Fiber Co., discussed her decision to add non-superwash yarns to her line-up as well as the transition to GOTS certified superwash bases in an interview here.
Colors now in stock include a mix of colors we've previously stocked, and colors that are new to Yarn Folk, including Observatory Circle (on Studio Sock, Studio DK, and Cobblestone Roving, created to honor Vice President Harris.
…to inspire
Designer Elizabeth Smith sends a weekly newsletter sharing design news and knitting tips, and last week, she shared an excellent photo tutorial for weaving in ends on the wrong side of the fabric using duplicate stitch. It is by far the method I use most often, and her close-up photos demonstrate the process exceptionally well. While you're on her site, check out her designs. Audrey's Cardigan is one we've featured before (it would be great in Vintage Chunky or Mercado), and Ramona's Cardigan or Ramona's Pullover would be great choices for a first sweater! 
...to stitch
Water Bearer
Water Bearer (Ravelry link) is one vertical chart repeat shy of being ready for the i-cord bind off and edging. While the after effects of my second vaccine dose were limited to fatigue for about 36 hours, I do know better than to work brioche waves while sleepy! My plan is to finish the body before I cast on the Felix Cardi (Ravelry link) for Berroco's Cardi Party on Friday.
Very Hungry Tube Socks
I'm banking on the unlikelihood of my sister making it this far into a Facebook or blog post, since these are a gift for her! Her career has been directing early intervention services, and Eric Carle's work is a favorite. There was literally no way I could pass on casting on the Very Hungry Tube Socks (Ravelry link). My caterpillar combo is Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Sock in Bromo, and Wildstar Fibers Supernova Sock in Into the Forest I Go.
