Alpine Kneedles

09/07/2026

September long weekend has been a bit of a mix of everything.

We took a little family trip out to Takakkaw Falls and Banff, which was beautiful as always. I also did something I haven't done in about 15 years and got my nose re-pierced after letting it close — and then decided to get my conch pierced too.

My husband saw me do it and thought, “I'll have one too.” So now we both have new piercings. 😂

At home, I finally cast on my Nocturnal Jumper, which I have been ridiculously excited about. Although now that I’ve actually started it, I’m questioning my colour choices.

I used Cascade 220 Heathers in a light grey as my main colour, and I can't decide if I love it. Part of me keeps thinking I should have gone with cream instead.

This is the problem with knitting something you've been planning in your head for months. Eventually you actually have to make the decisions.

And, of course, it has been raining basically all weekend — which I am absolutely loving. Fall weather, knitting and a rainy day is pretty much my idea of a perfect combination.

There was also Wicked Woods happening just down the road this weekend. I always love knowing there are so many creative people, artists, makers and music lovers gathered nearby, although I can't imagine this was the most pleasant weather for a festival!

And probably the thing I'm most excited about right now: I went to look at a potential space to get a local knit and crochet meetup going again.

I've really been missing that kind of community, and I'm feeling very hopeful that I might be able to bring it back.

So that’s my September long weekend: a little adventure, some questionable colour choices, new piercings, lots of rain and maybe the beginning of something new for the local crafting community.

And now I need you to tell me…

Grey or cream for the Nocturnal Jumper?

09/03/2026

The "ber" months have finally arrived and today was the perfect rainy day to cast on our next KAL, The Nocturnal Jumper by Saskie&Co

09/03/2026

Show some support for your favorite businesses and vote for them here!! 🥰

As businesses wind down a busy summer we are gearing up at the Chamber of Commerce to recognize all their hard work and accomplishments this year. If you haven't already, please take the time to nominate your favourite businesses for the 2026 Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.

Take the time to leave comments with your nominations so that we can spread some good vibes around the valley and celebrate business excellence!

Vote at cvchamber.ca!

https://www.cognitoforms.com/ColumbiaValleyChamberOfCommerce/_27thAnnualColumbiaValleyChamberOfCommerceBusinessExcellenceAwards

09/02/2026

1 follower = 1 stitch

09/02/2026

I think I may have accidentally given myself a yarn problem…

I’ve recently received a bunch of samples, and looking through them made me realize just how little I currently carry in some of these weights — especially sock, DK and bulky.

And then there’s Estelle Yarns Gemstone Merino Bulky.

This one is new and seems to be growing in popularity, and after getting a sample to try, I can definitely understand why. It’s incredibly soft, comes in some beautiful colours, and it’s the kind of yarn that immediately makes you start thinking about what you could make with it.

Most of the samples I received happen to be in shades of red and pink, but each of these yarns comes in a whole range of other colours too — these are just a little peek at what’s available.

So now I’m wondering… should I be bringing in more options in these weights?

If you were shopping in my little yarn shop, which would you be most excited to see more of: sock, DK or bulky?

And if Gemstone Merino Bulky is one you’ve been wanting to try, I’d love to hear that too.

I’m doing a little research before my next orders, and apparently you all get to help me decide what I buy.

Estelle Yarns - Gemstone Merino Bulky

Estelle Yarns - Evolution Sock

Estelle Yarns - Estelle Bulky

Estelle Yarns - Evolution Sock

Estelle Yarns - Highland Alpaca Chunky Tweed

Estelle Yarns - Highland Alpaca DK Tweed

King Cole - Tweed Super Chunky

Rellana Garne - Flotte Socke Nordic 4ply

RICO yarns - Sock Spray Paint

LANG Yarns - Super Soxx

King Cole - Dotdot Dash DK

Estelle Yarns - Breeze 100% Cotton

08/31/2026

Looking for a local yarn shop in the Columbia Valley? Come visit Alpine Kneedles in Fairmont Hot Springs, BC and shop our cozy in-home yarn studio in person!

Browse a selection of quality knitting and crochet yarns, needles, hooks, tools, notions, and handmade accessories. Whether you're looking for the perfect yarn for your next project, need help choosing a colour, or simply want to chat about all things yarn, I'd love to have you visit.

Book Your Studio Appointment: https://alpinekneedles.com/pages/visit-the-alpine-kneedles-yarn-studio

The Alpine Kneedles studio is appointment-based, giving you plenty of time to browse without feeling rushed. Appointments are a great option if you're:

Looking for yarn for a specific knitting or crochet project
Choosing colours or comparing yarn weights and fibres
Shopping for knitting needles, crochet hooks, or notions
Looking for a local yarn shop near Invermere
Simply wanting to come see the yarn in person!

Can't find the yarn, colour, or weight you're looking for? Send me a message before your appointment. I have access to a wide range of yarns and colours beyond what is currently listed online, and I love helping knitters and crocheters find the right yarn for their projects.

Once your appointment is booked, you'll receive the studio details and appointment information.

I can't wait to welcome you to Alpine Kneedles!

08/30/2026

POV: Your boss leaves town and suddenly you're responsible for social media.

He was told to make some content for the yarn studio while I was away... and honestly, I think he deserves employee of the month. 😂

08/29/2026

I am beyond excited to cast on this Nocturnal Jumper by Saskie&Co, a Canadian pattern designer (pattern available on Ravelry). 🇨🇦🇨🇦 Because as a Canadian small business owner, I feel it's important to support other Canadians when possible! But also, this pattern is so gorgeous and perfect for fall.

I decided to make mine using Cascade 220, Heathers and Solids in more of a gold tone rather than an orange one.

I plan to start this project in September and work on it through the fall. So if you'd like to join me, I would love to see all of your versions 🥰

Alternatively she has written the Nocturnal Socks pattern as well if a jumper feels a bit too ambitious right now.

08/28/2026

Great tip!