Serenity Now Yarn & Alpaca Shop

08/13/2026

🧶 Which comes first—the yarn or the pattern?
Sometimes I fall in love with a yarn and then have to figure out what in the world I’m going to make with it.
Other times I find a pattern I HAVE to make, and then the hunt for the perfect yarn begins!
And then there’s option #3… shop the stash! 😉
This week on the blog, I’m talking about how I use Ravelry to find inspiration, see what other knitters have made, play with yarn and color ideas, and sometimes discover that the perfect yarn for my next project is already sitting at home.
After all, I like to think of my stash as my own personal yarn store—filled entirely with yarns I love! 🧶💜
So tell me: What usually comes first for you—the yarn or the pattern?
Then head over to the blog and read this week’s post! 👇
https://serenitynowalpacas.com/blogs/inspiration/do-you-pick-the-yarn-or-the-pattern-first
Happy knitting!
Betty Jo

Do You Pick the Yarn or the Pattern First? Which comes first—the yarn or the pattern? For me, the answer is both! Sometimes I see a yarn and immediately fall in love with it. I don't necessarily know what I'm going to make with it yet. I just know I want to work with it. Other times, I see a patte...

08/10/2026

Wool has picked up a few unfair rumours over the years.
Here are four of the most common myths around it...

1. Wool is always itchy.
Not all wool is created equal. Modern spinning techniques, together with beautifully fine fibres like Merino, Alpaca and Cashmere, produce yarns that feel wonderfully soft against the skin.

2. Wool is difficult to care for.
Wool is naturally resilient and surprisingly low maintenance. Its fibres help resist odours, meaning many wool garments simply need a good airing between wears rather than frequent washing.

3. Wool can't be used for sportswear.
Natural fibres have been trusted outdoors for generations. Wool's ability to wick moisture and regulate temperature makes it exceptionally dependable for an active lifestyle.

4. Wool is only for winter.
Wool isn't just for cold weather. It naturally helps regulate your body temperature, making it just as comfortable for cool summer evenings and changeable spring days as it is during the colder months.

Are there any others that you'd add to the list?

08/06/2026

I just posted this weeks blog. I hope you enjoy reading it.

https://serenitynowalpacas.com/blogs/inspiration/how-many-projects-are-on-your-needles-⭐

How Many Projects Do I Have Going? How many projects do I have going? A lot! Actually... maybe we shouldn't count them. 😄 Different from many knitters, my projects fall into two categories: shop projects and personal projects. The funny thing is, I have even more shop projects waiting to be cast ...

08/04/2026

08/01/2026

07/29/2026

I've been thinking lately...
As knitters, we sometimes feel like every project has to teach us something new or be more impressive than the last one.
But what if it doesn't?
What if the best project is simply the one that brings you peace, keeps your hands busy, and makes you smile every time you pick it up?
That's what this week's blog is about.
If you have a few quiet minutes today, I'd love for you to give it a read. And when you're done, let me know—are you someone who is always chasing the next new pattern, or do you have a favorite project you come back to again and again?
📖 Read the blog here:
https://serenitynowalpacas.com/blogs/inspiration/the-best-project-isnt-always-the-most-exciting-one
Happy knitting,
Betty Jo 🧶💜

07/24/2026

As another week comes to a close, I hope you find a little time this weekend to slow down, enjoy your favorite beverage, and spend a few peaceful moments with some soft yarn.
Whether you're casting on something new or adding a few rows to a long-time project, remember... one stitch at a time. 🧶☕
Wishing you a relaxing, happy weekend filled with creativity and a little extra joy.
❤️ Betty Jo at Serenity Now Yarn & Alpaca Shop

07/23/2026

🧶 Quick Fiber Personality Test!
You walk into the yarn shop with ONE project in mind...
Five minutes later you're leaving with yarn for...
😂 A. The original project.
😍 B. A completely different project because that yarn spoke to you.
🤷‍♀️ C. Both. (Obviously.)
No judgment here—we've all been there.
Tell us your letter in the comments. We promise we won't count how many times you answer "C." 😉