The week before Memorial Day, I spent 4 lovely days on beautiful Block Island, Rhode Island hosted by North Light Fibers and led by designer, Deb Newton.  This was my third knitting retreat on Block Island, hosted by North Light Fibers and my second designer retreat with Deb  Newton.  Unlike my trip last September when there was a bit of a hurricane, the weather was wonderful this trip.

 

 

This allowed us to knit outdoors always a great way to spend my knitting time.

 

This retreat had us learning all about experimenting with stitch patterns and digging deeper into designing knitted items.  I’m currently working on mastering the raglan top down sweater.  My first try is sized for doll clothes.  Once I master that, I’ll try a sweater for myself.  Deb suggested the book Knitting from the Top Down by Barbara Walker.  It is a terrific reference book.

I also worked on adding edging to a swatch.  Lots of experimenting.

 

So I’m filled with inspiration.  So many ways to expand my knitting into new and hopefully beautiful knits.

I’ll be working on a new scarf design, inspired by the trip and by Deb.  I’ll be sure to keep you posted as it progresses.

 

And, of course, I couldn’t be at North Light Fibers without bringing home a wonderful new project.  This is the Flechir shawl by Marnie MacLean.  I chose a cream color called Snowflake in Water Street yarn.  This is one of my favorite North Light Fibers yarns.  It is a DK weight and 40% Cashmere/ 60% Super Fine Merino.  I can’t wait to be able to wear this shawl.

 

If you’re ready to try North Light Fibers Water Street, I have kits available on my website for the Island Crossing Mitts that I designed after the September Retreat.  These mitts are a wonderful addition to any wardrobe.