As yarncrafters, I’m sure you already know that when someone announces their pregnancy, the hooks and needles soon come out and the hands are busy making all sorts of wonderful gifts for the expectant mother.  While your mind instantly thinks “baby hat and booties set” or “baby blanket”, don’t forget about the toys! They can be…

In my day-to-day work, I get to spend time working with amazing knit- and crochet-wear designers around the country. Often, as we talk, I ask them what trends they’re seeing–and lately, the trend I’ve been hearing about the most in yarn is rich, saturated colors. Jewel tones and rich colors are flattering on many skin-tones; it’s…

I just came back from Stitches Midwest, a knit/crochet convention put together by XRX Inc. (home of Knitter’s Magazine) – and had a great time talking with different people who love to yarncraft.   While talking to folks in our Lion Brand booth, I realized that Wool-Ease, our traditional worsted weight wool blend yarn is very…

Fall is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already searching for the perfect fall pattern to sink your hooks and needles into. Finding that one must-make pattern can be a challenge, particularly when there are so many beautiful patterns to choose from. Capes are swinging back into style this fall, according to…

It’s that time of year when kids are getting home from summer camp–but not yet going back to school. If you’re looking for activities to do with your kids, either at home or on vacation, here are some of my favorite craft projects. In addition to being fun and easy, they are also awesome for using…

Whether you have a college student or an elementary school student in your life, August and back-to-school season is an exciting time full of anticipation and preparation. With this in mind, I’ve included a round up of some of my favorite back-to-school patterns. Below, you’ll find projects for students of all ages–ranging from cozy sweaters to…

It’s the end of July, which means we’re wrapping up our month of patterns for outdoor dining! Today is the annual Lion Brand company barbecue where all of Lion Brand’s staff gathers at our NJ facilities to enjoy some fun in the sun, burgers, and camaraderie. In honor of the barbecue (and our month of…

Incorporating motifs in your pattern is a great way to play around with color work and different stitch patterns.  Motifs also are also perfect for personalizing projects- such as adding skulls to a little boys cap, or butterflies to a girl’s headband.  What fun would it be if all our clothes and home decor just…

I’m sure many of you are enjoying the summer sun and the opportunities to take your homemade goods with you outdoors.  Picnics and BBQs are summer traditions that I personally love to take advantage of! So if you’re heading out for a picnic or bbq, or simply just having a fun get together in your…

I absolutely love the summertime, sun and swimming.  I’ll never forget my first snorkeling experience where I was able to actually swim with the fish and look at all of the beautiful, colorful life in the sea. Unfortunately, living in NYC, I don’t get to see much of the ocean life, unless I visit the…