Chris Bylsma Workshops Inspire Creativity

During the course of three workshops, Chris Bylsma has us thinking about yarn in a whole new way. Suddenly our stashes are new found treasures from which to create a new Crayon Box Jacket, a garment or bag. We had more fun playing with color and texture and discovered creative ways to incorporate old yarns with new.

In the Stashology class, Chris asked us take 10 different yarns pulling them together into one large strand. We cut the strand into 24" pieces and draped them around our neck. Then, without looking, we randomly pulled individual pieces and knit one after the other. The result was stunning! So much for planning--this new technique lets "the yarn do all the work," as Chris says.

We spent one day learning the construction of the Crayon Box Jacket and plan a reunion fashion show on September 16. Meanwhile we are all playing with color and texture variations on mitered squares. The jacket flows easily. By picking up stitches and casting on edges, there are almost no seams. Stay tuned for photos of the fashion show in September!

We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Chris for making the journey to Omaha. Her graciousness and expertise will have a lasting impact on us and String of Purls customers.