Road Trip Tuesday

On Tuesday, Sarah and I and two of Sarah's friends, Lydia and Robyn headed out for the day to Barnard Castle - another Road Trip!
This was actually prompted by my need to view some items due for Auction at Addisons. Addisons is one of the few Auction Houses that actually photograph every item in their sales - but, like yarn you need to see it and touch it before buying (or bidding) really. Hence, the day out. From a list of over twelve items, I left bids for only four. I have to wait until tomorrow to see if I was lucky or not!
Barnard Castle was at it's best - sunny, busy, bustling and market day. We had a spot of lunch at Penny's, on the main High Street, and then sat in the sunshine with our ice creams - just like real holiday makers! The best part of the trip, however, was finding this hidden treasure - a lovely little shop, full of quirky hand crafted items, vintage cups and saucers, felted slippers, jewelry and cushions..... the list is endless. If you ever visit Barnard Castle make a stop here -
My Generation (the only link I can find is a facebook page, but it does have address and opening details).

Still on the subject of Road Trips - when we were at St.Abbs on Monday I took a little creature with us for the day. He was made for a friend as a Thank You gift, but we felt he needed a day out before his 'adoption'. I am pleased to say, he is very happy in his new home, and has even got a companion!!

Ollie at St.Abbs, enjoying the view.

I couldn't post a photo before because he hadn't been 'gifted' and I did not want to spoil the surprise.

Fantastic Photographs

I have just clicked on a link and looked at some brilliant photographs taken by the talented Brenda.
I love them - they have managed to capture The Knit Studio 'feel' perfectly!
Click Here and have a look.ETA If you click on the Blue Cat you will find even more photographs! (Thanks Dad - Doh!)
Thank you so much Brenda - we love them.

Yarn, Boxes & Decisions

Another interesting day at the Knit Studio! Moving yarn, opening boxes, attaching stickers and labels! Arranging, moving, putting back, arranging some more!
Anyway, before I go to bed here is another picture for you.

It's the Fabric corner!

There are so many lovely colourways, and they look so nice on the shelves that, I can't quite bring myself to open the packets!! I know, sad....

The Knit Studio Arrives!

Finally, and thank you for being so patient - here is the Secret revealed!

Here is the Press Release!!

Announcing the arrival of a unique Knitting destination

in the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne.

Opening Saturday 14th August, 2010 10.00 – 4.30

The Knit Studio is a brand new and exciting Knitting destination located in the heart of the City. You will find us inside the historic 13th Century Blackfrairs Priory buildings and nestling behind The Gate Complex. We are proud to be continuing the tradition of over 500 years of Craft Workers in the centre of Newcastle upon Tyne.

We are delighted to be stocking some of the best knitting yarns from brands based in the UK, including Rowan, Colinette, J.C Rennie, Natural Dye Studio, Flying Flock from Shetland and Nude Ewe. Other selected ranges include Adriafil, Zauberball, Regia and Jawoll sock yarn, Lang Alpaca, Gedifra and Artesano. British sheep breeds include Shetland, Blue Faced Leicester, Manx and Hebredean.

Come and see our wide range of knitting accessories which include Lantern Moon, Brittany Birch and new to the North East – Boye coloured needles from the USA! Browse through our extensive selection of books, magazines and patterns. Check out our interesting and eclectic range of fabric, including Amy Butler and Moda. We have an exciting programme of Workshop subjects planned with well known tutors, designers and authors.

August opening times Thursday 12.00 – 20.00 Friday & Saturday 10.00 – 16.30

The Knit Studio, Blackfriars, 6 Friars Green, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4XN

theknitstudio@gmail.com for more details

And here are a few photos of the work still in progress!

Look it even has a place for outdoor knitting!

Bits and Pieces in the window

Oh look - I spy some yarn from the Natural Dye Studio - heaven!!

Please come and visit I would love to see you and hear your comments!

Almost There!

I am now officially, excited! The not so secret, Secret Project is finally beginning to take shape. Most of the cardboard boxes have been emptied, most of the painting has been done and it's almost time for The Announcement. I have set a date, and just need one phone call tomorrow for confirmation and then all can be revealed. In the meantime - here are a couple more photographs to keep you going.

Meet Isabella!

And today, I introduce you to......Isabella!
Isabella will soon be modelling some of my knitting or crochet creations - at present she is a little naked. Still, she has a certain style, don't you think?

Another Hint!

Does anyone remember going on holiday with suitcases like these?

We used to own four or five, in varying sizes. Mine was the smallest and I loved it! I purchased the two in photograph as 'props' for my secret project. They still have the previous owners address label inside!

Secret Project Photo Number 2

Have spent an interesting day unpacking boxes, running errands and making lists (which are endless). I know I have a problem when I add something to my list that I have just done, then cross it off just to make the list look better!
Anyway, here is hint number 2.

Not so Top Secret Project Photos

Over the next few days and weeks I shall be posting photographs and giving away a few hints about my new Project! Hopefully, I'll be making an Official Announcement later this week!
It is a very big project and I am very, very excited about it!
It has taken a lot longer than I thought it would, but all good things take a while to come together.

So, here goes

Picture No1

In this photo we have two 1920's Haberdashery Shop units, two Singer hand sewing machines (family heirloom) and my favourite chaise from my old house.
Are you intrigued yet?

An Interesting Kind of Day!

Today I met with a very interesting person to talk about my secret project! Watch this space......
And my friend, and ex next door neighbour Laura came to see me bearing a gift - it's a really cool old fashioned ball winder and it's fabulous! Thank you Laura (photo to follow).
Later today I collected Sarah and 3 friends from school and after tea, dropped them in their finery at The Theatre Royal for their first taste of Opera. They will be watching Rusalka by Antonin Dvorak - not one I have managed to see, but it has a really good story and I am sure they will enjot it. Truth be told, I am a tad jealous!!