I made a quick jaunt to the NY Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY last weekend! It’s always such a highlight of the fall, getting to see and experience all the sheep, the alpacas, the yarn, the fiber, the apple cider donuts, and the best sweater watching all year.
I brought along a friend who, gasp! is not a knitter or crocheter but a lover of craft none-the-less and a fine artist herself. It was really a cool experience to show her our world of fiber, yarn, and wool, and the beautiful textiles created from them.
And of course, running into friends is always one of the best “surprises” of going to Rhinebeck! There are so many people about, you never know who you’ll run into! I was thrilled to find Bristol Ivy on Saturday. In a total moment of Serendipity, we discovered that I was wearing her design Lita in Cumbria Fingering, and she was wearing her new, as yet un-named, colorwork pullover in Cumbria worsted weight. It was a photo-worthy occasion!
This year’s goal was not to go crazy on yarn but instead, do one big purchase: a sheepskin. One each for my friend Sarah and myself. We succeeded in our goal and after some wine, we had a bit of fun posing on our new sheepskins!
Another major highlight was going to see Mary at The Perfect Blend in Saugerties, NY. Mary has a super cute shop filled to the brim with soft yarn in beautiful colors and delicious teas. She has a great community of knitters and a lovely staff. Recently, they knit a shawl called A River Runs Through It by Theresa Gilbert in four shades of The Fibre Co Meadow. If you are up in that area, her shop is a must-see.
Overall, it was a great weekend full of friends, good food, and, of course, wool! I already can’t wait for next year! Did you go to Rhinebeck this year? What was your favorite moment? -MK
All photo credit goes to my friend Sarah!