Wednesday, August 13, 2008

August Meeting

Remember fiber fanatics! Our next meeting will be this Sunday, August 17, at the Belle Isle Library (downstairs) from 3:00 until 5:00. We will have a presentation on knitting machines.

Please join us for a great time! If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at the email address on the sidebar.

See you there!

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Reminder for July

Guild will not be meeting in July. We will resume our regularly scheduled meetings in August - same third Sunday (17th) same time (3:00 p.m.) same location (Belle Isle Library). See you there!

Monday, May 19, 2008

Vol 3 Issue 6 May 2008

A big thanks to everyone who was at our meeting yesterday. It was so beautiful outside that I know it was hard not to want to go "play" instead of coming to the meeting. However, I do appreciate everyone who was in attendance. We had approximately 21 people along with one visitor.
I hope that all of you will be able to attend our Second Annual National Knit Out Day. This year we are holding it at Books A Million. It is going to be so much fun. A big thanks to Anna and others for helping to organize this event.
Have a great month and keep on knitting, knitting, knitting!
Sincerely,
Brenda
************************************************************
Committee Reports

Knit Guild Library (Bethany)
One of the books available to check out from the our library is "Knitting Tams" by Mary Rowe. It's a great 'recipe' book for tams of all stripes and varieties..


Charity Knitting (Linda)
Last month, we collected 4 bears, 6 blankets, 1 hat/bootie set, 8 blanket/bunting sets, and 9 hats. Thanks to all who knitted items for our different charity projects.

Don't forget about the charity knitting contest - the deadline for the contest is next month so be sure to get your items turned in!

************************************************************

Educational & Social Events
* Presentation Handouts: Jo Ellyn has graciously volunteered to help presenters with their presentation handout. Jo Ellyn can add our guild logo to your handout and help to get it ready for you. Let her know what you need!
* Presentation Assistants: We are looking for a 'few good knitters' to help circulate the room during specific presentations (i.e. learning a new stitch). This would allow the presenter to focus on their presentation and the knitters would get assistance when needed. Let us know if you are willing to help out!

************************************************************
Second Annual National Knit Out Day
Make plans to attend our Second National Knit Out Day on Saturday, June 14th. We will be celebrating, at Books A Million at 2300 West Memorial Rd. We will begin at 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

**************************************************************

Upcoming Presentations
* June 15: Increase Methods - Linda Pahdoco
* July: No meeting
* August 17: Mitered Squares - Carolyn Faircloth
* September 21: Decrease Methods - Amanda Clemons
* October 19: Color Knitting - Jo Ellyn Wheeler
* November 16: Correcting Knitting Errors - Sara Braden
* December 14: Deciphering Stitch Patterns - Anita Roesler

Beginning Knitting Volunteers
June: Jen Young & Jo Ellyn Wheeler
August: Bethany Mickle
September: Brenda Asher
************************************************************

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Susan's Memorial Celebration

For those of you who have not heard yet, here is the information on Susan Barrington's Memorial Celebration:

Memorial Celebration & Reception Party: Saturday, May 17th at 1:00 pm.
Location: Lakeside Assembly of God (East of Rockwell)
6810 NW 122nd St, OKC

The family has asked for no flowers, but you might consider making a contribution to the American Cancer Society in Susan's name.

Thanks!
Brenda

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Vol 3 Issue 5 April 2008

Thanks to all who was at our April meeting. Although it was a smaller group, it was a lot of fun! We had several new people at our meeting and it was great getting to meet and know them. A BIG thanks to Jo Ellyn for sharing information on guage and making test swatches. There was lots of time at the end of the meeting to sit back, relax, and just enjoy knitting. If you weren't there, we hope that you can make the next meeting. Have a great month!!

Brenda :>

*************************************************************************************
Committee Reports
Knit Guild Library (Bethany)
One of the books available to check out from the our library is "Cotton Knits for All Seasons" by Debbie Bliss. This book has pattern designs for kids and adults. Just let Bethany know if you want this or any other book to check out.
*************************************************************************************
2008 Focus
Charity Knitting (Linda)
Last month, we collected 2 bears and 30 hats. Thanks to all who knitted items for our different charity projects.
**************************************************************************************
Fundraisers
* 50/50: We had our first 50/50 Cash drawing. Several contributed money to the kitty. At the end of our meeting, we had a drawing and Linda Pahdoco was our winner! The cash is split - half goes to the winner and the other half goes to the Guild. We will do this again in May and June.
* Winter Holiday Craft Fair: We had discussed having a craft fair - by members for members - in November or December. The fair would give all a chance to show their talents and buy some really nice things for gifts. A decision has not been made yet on whether we will do this or not. Please think about it and let us know your ideas on it.
**************************************************************************************
Educational & Social Events
* Presentation Handouts: Jo Ellyn has graciously volunteered to help presenters with their presentation handout. Jo Ellyn can add our guild logo to your handout and help to get it ready for you. Let her know what you need!
* Presentation Assistants: We are looking for a 'few good knitters' to help circulate the room during specific presentations (i.e. learning a new stitch). This would allow the presenter to focus on their presentation and the knitters would get assistance when needed. Let us know if you are willing to help out!
* National Knit Out Day: Make plans to attend our National Knit Out Day on Saturday, June 14th. We are still finalizing details on where we will be celebrating, but it looks like it will be at Books A Million on Memorial Rd. Be at our May meeting for the final details!
* Beginning Knitter's Kits: A BIG THANKS to S.W.A.K. for donating several Beginning Knitting DVDs to go in our kits. What an awesome gift for those who want to learn more!
**************************************************************************************
New Business
* Meeting Dates: Guild meetings have been scheduled with the Belle Isle Library through December 2008. However, there will be two changes due to things going on at the library:
>>>>> The July meeting will be cancelled
>>>>> The December meeting will be on Sunday, Dec 14th
instead of Sunday, Dec 21st.
Please make a note of these changes on your schedule.
**************************************************************************************
Upcoming Presentations
* May 18: Lace Knitting - Sara Braden
* June 15: Increase Methods - Linda Pahdoco
* July: No meeting
* August 17: Mitered Squares - Carolyn Faircloth
* September 21: Decrease Methods - Amanda Clemons
* October 19: Color Knitting - Jo Ellyn Wheeler
* November 16: Correcting Knitting Errors - Sara Braden
* December 14: Deciphering Stitch Patterns - Anita Roesler
Beginning Knitting Volunteers
May: Dolly Dearner
June: Jen Young & Jo Ellyn Wheeler
August: Bethany Mickles
September: Brenda Asher
**************************************************************************************

Thursday, April 17, 2008

We are sorry to learn that Susan Barrington passed away early this morning. As soon as we get more information on Susan's service, we will let you know. Susan.....we will miss you greatly!!!

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Vol 3 Issue 4 March 2008

Welcome Spring!

It was great to see everyone Sunday at our meeting. We had 18 members and 1 new person who came to learn, knit, and have fun. There was a lot of good discussion as we met over different issues and Carolyn Faircloth gave a great presentation where many of us learned a new pattern. It was a great meeting and I am very grateful to be a part of a wonderful group of people. Have a great month and knit, knit, knit!

Sincerely,
Brenda Asher

************************ Committee Reports ******************************
Charity Knitting (Linda P)
For the month of February, we had to following charity items turned in:
* 17 hats
* 1 hat and bootie set
* 5 blankets & buntings
* 1 hat and sweater
* 1 bear - fully dressed!!
Don't forget, we have yarn and patterns available for anyone who needs them. Let's see if we can shoot for 35 items and 2 bears in April

This month we had a drawing for those people who brought something to donate to our charities. Everyone got to put their name in for each item they brought. Our winner was Sara Braden! Sara won a $10 gift certificate to use at the Gourmet Yarn. Congratulations Sara. And thanks to everyone who brought something.


Library (Bethany M)
Don't forget that the Guild has knitting books that you can check out at any time. Bethany has been working on updating the Guild's Library website. Take a look and see if there is anything you would like for her to bring to the next meeting. If you have a book that you would like to see if our library, let Bethany know.


Beginner's Knitting (Terri D)
At this time, we are doing good on supplies for our Beginner's kits. However, if you have needles, totes, or knitting accessories you would like to donate, we will gladly take them. We are currently looking at how to make the beginner's kits better and with more information about knitting. If you have any "how-to" books that you no longer use or beginning knitting CDs/DVDs, we would love to include them in the beginner's kits. We are also going to start putting in simple patterns that they can work on. Several members also suggested that we start a 'buddy' system with our new knitters. The buddy would be available to answer any questions the new knitter might have in between meetings. If you would be interested in being a buddy, let Terri or Brenda know.


Educational Committee
We are sooo excited! Jo Ellyn has volunteered to be on our Educational Committee. During this next year, we hope to have at least one major educational event. We need other volunteers so we can have the best ideas and support to put together some great events. Jo Ellyn is also willing to help anyone doing a presentation with their handout. Thanks for all you do Jo Ellyn!

***************************************** Old Business **************************************
Fundraiser Ideas
50/50: Anita brought up a great idea for a fundraiser at our February meeting. Each month, we will have a "Knitty Kitty" where members can donate any amount of money they choose. When a member puts some money in the Kitty, they will get a ticket. At the end of the meeting, a ticket will be drawn. The winning ticket will get half of the money that is in the Kitty. The rest of the money will go into the Guild's account. We will try this for a few months to see how it goes. Thanks Anita for a great and fun idea!

Christmas Craft Fair: Another idea that was brought up at our February meeting was to hold a Craft Fair in November or December for our members. We did not get a chance to talk about this at our meeting, so be thinking more about it. We'll discuss it next month.


International Knit In Public Day
The date for the International Knit in Public Day has been finally announced - Saturday, June 14th. Discussion was held to see if we still wanted to do ours on June 21 or change it to the 14th. We also discussed the best place to stage our knit out. Places like the mall, parks, and the library were all discussed. At this time, a decision hasn't been made. We are asking for members to 'scout' around for a very busy place to have our knit day. Further discussion will take place at our next meeting. If you have any ideas, be sure to bring them in April.

****************************** New Business *************************************
Multiple Meetings
One member brought up the question last month as to why we only meet once a month. I wasn't able to answer that question because in the year and a half that I have been a member, we have always met once a month. The discussion was brought before the members as to how they felt about having just one monthly meeting and if they would be interested in having more during the meeting. Members brought up concerns such as time factors and higher gas prices. Many members cited concerns that more meetings would fragment the group. Several also mentioned that they were already involved in smaller private knitting groups that meet at other times. After much discussion, it was the consensus of the group that the Guild just has one meeting time each month.

*************************************** Educational Presentation *************************
Carolyn Faircloth gave a wonderful presentation on the English Diamond Quilting pattern. Carolyn used a sample kit that can be obtained from The Knitting Guild Association. If you missed this and would like a copy of the pattern, see Carolyn.

Next Month: Getting Gauge - Jo Ellyn Wheeler

********************** April Beginning Knitting Volunteers ******************
Melissa Ryan and Sara Braden

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Vol 3 Issue 3 March 08

Greetings to all!

Just a reminder that tomorrow is our monthly meeting. I hope all of you can make it! We are going to be going on over a few things, having a wonderful presentation and of course - there is the SWAP meet. The SWAP will be held last. To help us get through our meeting quickly and not disturb our presentation, I am asking that you keep all SWAP items with you until time for the SWAP to take place. If you are bringing a lot of items, we will try to have a spot under the SWAP table where you can put them until time to get them out.

Membership donations are now $20. Keela will be taking any 2008 membership donations tomorrow at our meeting. We appreciate it!

Don't forget your charity knitting! We will be holding a drawing for each item you bring for our charity donation. Doesn't matter if it is little or bigger. The drawing will be for a $10 gift certificate.

We will also hold a drawing for anyone who is at the meeting tomorrow. You will want to get in on that one as well.

Have a great evening and we will see you tomorrow!
Brenda

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Volume 3 Issue 2 January 2008

Hi to all!
Hope you are having a wonderful January and getting some of those knitting New Year's resolutions off to a great start. We had a wonderful turn out at our January meeting. Thanks to all of you who came and to those who couldn't make it - we missed you! Let's see if we can have an even bigger turn out for our February meeting. Until then, here is what happened in January.....

******************************************************
Nominations
Elections for two Executive Board positions were held this month. We had one nominee for President and three nominees for Secretary. We appreciate all of those who helped in the nomination process and these people for accepting the nominations. After the votes were tallied, the new Executive Board members are:

President: Brenda Asher
Secretary: Melissa Ryan

We thank Carolyn Faircloth for all of the hard work that she has put in this past year as our Guild President. The 2008 Executive Board members are: President - Brenda Asher, Vice-President - Linda Pahdoco, Secretary - Melissa Ryan, and Treasurer - Keela Mostek.


Membership Donation
The Executive Board has been discussing the possibility of increasing our Membership donation. At this time, we have been asking people who would like to place membership with the Guild to donate $5. However, with some of the goals of the Guild and the growth that we would like to see in the future, we are looking at increasing that amount. More discussion will take place at our next Guild meeting. If you have any thoughts or comments that you would like to express, please let Brenda Asher know.


National Knit Out Day
On Saturday, Feb 16 and Sunday, Feb 17, the nation will be celebrating National Knit Out Day. We would like to have a local celebration at well. We are currently checking into whether Penn Square Mall will let us hold one there on Saturday, February 16th. We are hoping to do this in the afternoon around 2:00 until maybe 4:00. Nothing is set up yet and we will let you know when we do.


Beginning Knitters Help
In an effort to better assist any beginning knitters who attend our meetings, we are going to start taking them into a separate room to work with them during the meeting. In order to do this, we have set up a volunteer sign up list for each month throughout 2008. We are asking for two voluteers each month that would be willing to go into the other room to work with beginners and help them out as much as you can. Several members signed up at our January meeting; however, we can always use more throughout the year. If you would be interested in this, please get with Brenda Asher at the Feburary meeting.


*************** Educational Program ******************

Keela Mostek was in charge of our program this past month and she did a wonderful job showing us how to add crochet edging to your knitted projects. Thanks Keela for a great job!


Next Meeting: February 17th at 3:00pm
> Linda Pahdoco: Different Cast On Methods

Monday, January 14, 2008

Vol 3 Issue 1 January 2008

In less than a week, we will be voting for new officers for the Guild. The positions that are open are President and Secretary. Here are the nominations so far. Voting will take place at our January 20th meeting.

President: Brenda Asher

Secretary: Anna Hester, Terri Derrick, Melissa Ryan

Please let me know if you would like to volunteer for either of these positions or nominate someone. Nominations must be in by Saturday, January 19th. You can email me at knitterba@aol.com until Friday, Jan 18th.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 12 December 2007

Greetings to all!
Whether it be Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas, we here at the OKC Metro Guild wish each and everyone of you a very Happy Holiday.

Our December Guild meeting was wonderful and so relaxing. Our business meeting was kept to a minimal and we spent the time visiting with each other, eating some very yummy goodies, and sharing Holiday Traditions. Thanks to Terri for organizing this event and a BIG THANKS to each of the members who braved the weather and got out for the meeting.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, January 20th. We will be voting on two new Board members - President and Secretary. There have been several nominations. We are still in the process of receiving answers from some of them. I will try and post the nominees sometime next week so you have some time to think about who you would like to vote for. Voting will take place at our January 08 meeting.

Keela Mostick will be presenting at our January 20th meeting. Her educational topic will be "Adding Croschet Edgings." You won't want to miss it!

Again, have a wonderful holiday......and a safe & happy new year! See you in 2008!!

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 11b December 2007

Hi to all! Hope this finds you safe and warm. Tomorrow is our December Guild meeting. As of this time, we are still planning on meeting at the Belle Isle Library at 3:00. If for some reason, the meeting is cancelled due to bad weather, please check either your email or one of your local TV stations for cancellation notice. Thanks! If you have any questions, you can email any of the board members.

Brenda

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 11 November 2007

Happy Thanksgiving.....
The members of the OKC Metro Knit Guild Board would like to wish each knitter out there a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. We are grateful for your enthusiasm, your support, and your encouragement. Have a wonderful day this week with your family and friends.


******************* What Happened This Week! ***********************

TKGA - The Knit Guild Association
OKC Metro Knit Guild is associated with TKGA. If you would like to become a member of TKGA, you can go online to sign up. Their site is http://www.tkga.com/.


Knitting Charities - Linda
Tis' the season....for knitting for any of our charities. OKC Metro Knit Guild is involved in two different charity opportunities. Precious Pals provides stuffed animals with knitted outfits to the Sheriff's department for them to use with children who have suffered some kind of trauma. We are also involved with Baptist Hospital's Neonatal unit and making hats, booties, and burial buntings for them. If you have any questions about what you can do, see Linda.


OKC Metro Knit Guild Library - Bethany
We have a lot of wonderful knitting books available to members of the Guild. Bethany brings books each month that you can check out and work from. If there is anything in particular that you would like for her to bring, email her and she will be happy to bring it.


Holiday Party - Terri
Our holiday party is less than a month away. Here are some things we will be doing at it:
* Our presentation will be for each member (who wants to) to share a holiday tradition they enjoy.
* We will have a Dirty Santa gift exchange - keep it simple and inexpensive.
* Bring a covered dish - sign up on our yahoo group as to what you will be bringing
* If you have a pattern that you can share (remember copyright laws), bring enough for the whole group.


Nominations - Brenda or Anita
Nominations are now being taken for the President and Secretary position. If you would like to serve in either of these positions or you have someone in mind who would be great in either of these positions, please let Brenda or Anita know. We would like to have as many nominations as possible by our December meeting so you can be thinking about them before we vote in January or February.


************** Educational Program - Terri Derrick ***********

Our program this month featured Terri showing and telling us all about the wonderful internet sites available to knitters. Here are just a few sites that she shared with us:

http://www.ravelry.com/
http://www.knittingdaily.com/
www.cascadeyarns.com/patterns.asp
http://www.lionbrand.com/
http://www.knittychick.com/
http://www.knitty.com/
http://www.knittingzone.com/
http://www.knittingpatterncentral.com/

Thanks Terri for sharing these sites, and more, with us!

******************************Next Meeting**********************************
Holiday Party
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Belle Isle Library
3:00 p - 5:00 p



Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 10 October 2007

Welcome back to Susan, our Guild Founder. It was good to see her smiling face at our meeting Sunday. We also had lots of new faces visiting us for the first time. A big WELCOME to everyone who came to the meeting for the first time. It is great to see our guild growing. If you weren’t at the meeting, here’s what you missed!


******************** Reports ********************

Guild Library (Bethany)
Bethany reminded us of the various types of books available for member use. She showed us one book about Teddy Bear Knits. If you would like to view what is available, you can go to http://www.okcknitlibrary.blogspot/. If you would like Bethany to bring anything specific to a guild meeting, just let her know.


Beginner Knitting/Social Committee (Terri Derrick)
· Holiday Party: Our holiday party will take place in December. If you would like to help or have some ideas for some activities, please let Terri know. Terri has set up a database on our yahoo group page that will allow you to sign up and show what you will be bringing. Check it out at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MetroOKCKnitGuild/database


Finances (Keela Mostek)
Keela gave us an update on Finances.


Swap Meet (Susan Barrington)
Reminded us how the swap works – you can exchange yarn, knitting accessories, or magazines for equal value. If you weren’t able to participate in this one, we will do another swap in March of next year.


********** Old Business **************************

Profile Sheets: If you haven’t filled one out, be sure to do so at the next meeting


2008 Educational Programs: A list of the educational topics has been set up for the new year. We will get them posted within the next few weeks.


TKGA – The Knitting Guild Association: Information and applications are available at each meeting. If you would like to join TKGA, you can fill out one of the applications or enroll online. If you want further information, check them out at http://www.tkga.com/.


Nominating Committee: A committee was set up to take names for next year’s election. Two of our board officers – President and Secretary – will be voted on and replaced in January. The other two board officers – Vice President and Treasurer – will stay on an additional year to help with incoming officers. If you have anyone that you would like to nominate for the office of President or Secretary, please let the following people know before or by December 8th:
Brenda Asher knitterba@aol.com
Anita Roseler aroesler2@cox.net


**************** New Business ***************************

Metro Family Magazine: We are CELEBRITIES!!! The OKC Metro Knitting Guild was spotlighted in the October issue of Metro Family Magazine. You can find copies of the magazine wherever free publications are hosted (such as WalMart).

Build-A-Bear: There was some discussion about getting together as a group one afternoon at either Penn Square or Quail Springs Mall to stuff a bear and then sit and knit. Not only would it create exposure for the Guild, but would also aid in collecting bears and bear sweaters for our Precious Pals charity program. If you are interested in participating, contact Kathy Knox or Terri Derrick.

******** Educational Program - Mosaic Knitting *********

A big THANKS to Jo Ellyn for sharing her multitude of knitting skills with us. Jo Ellyn introduced us to Mosaic Knitting at our October meeting. She showed us how easy it is to knit two colors together into various patterns. Thanks Jo Ellyn for doing a great job!



November Meeting: CyberKnitting
Sunday, November 18 @ 3:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 9 September 2007

September brings some good news! We were excited to learn that Susan is doing better and her last checkup showed she is cancer free. What a great start to our meeting today. Here is more news from today……

************************ Reports ************************

Charity Knitting (Linda Pahdoco)
* Our charity contributions of infant accessories (hats, buntings, etc) are going well. Current needs are hats for full-term babies. However, continue to keep those preemie hats and burial buntings coming.
* Anna brought in lots of teddy bears that we can use for our Precious Pals project. Sweater patterns for our bears are available at each meeting. We have a contact at the Oklahoma Sheriff’s department and will be making a contribution of Teddy Bears towards the end of the year.
* One of our newest members, Naomi, brought in lots of yarn that we can use for our charity knitting. If you would like to knit some things for charity and need some yarn, you are welcome to get some from the Guild’s stash. Thanks Naomi for sharing the yarn with us!

Guild Library (Bethany)
Bethany reminded us of the various types of books available for member use. If you would like to view what is available, you can go to www.okcknitlibrary.blogspot. If you would like Bethany to bring anything specific to a guild meeting, just let her know.

Beginner Knitting/Social Committee (Carolyn Faircloth)
· Beginner’s Kits: We are starting to run low on kits. If you have any extra totes, needles, yarn, and/or small cosmetic bags (used to keep knitting accessories in), please bring them to the next meeting.
· Holiday Party: Our holiday party will take place in December. If you would like to help or have some ideas for some activities, please let Terri know. Terri has set up a database on our yahoo group page for those interested. Check it out at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MetroOKCKnitGuild/database


Finances (Keela Mostek)
Financial update

Swap Meet (Carolyn Faircloth)
Next month is our Swap Meet. Susan Barrington is our chair person for this and we are looking forward to her return to our meetings. For the meet, bring any yarn/fiber, needles, books, magazines, etc. that you do not want and you can ‘swap’ it for something that someone else brings. It’s a great way to get new stuff!

********** Old Business **************************
Profile Sheets: If you haven’t filled one out, be sure to do so at the next meeting

2008 Educational Programs: Carolyn has sent out a schedule of next year topics to those individuals who have volunteered to be presenters. Once she receives confirmation back from everyone, she will put all the information together and present to the Guild.

TKGA – The Knitting Guild Association: Information and applications are available at each meeting. If you would like to join TKGA, you can fill out one of the applications or enroll online. If you want further information, check them out at www.tkga.com.



**************** New Business ***************************
Nominating Committee: It’s getting close to that time! In a few months, we will be looking at nominating two new Executive Board Members for the year 2008. We would like to form a nomination committee that will keep track of those who are nominated (or volunteer) and help with the voting. If you would like to serve on the committee, let anyone of the current Executive Board members know. In the meantime, be thinking of people you would like to see serve on the Board.

Vol 2 Issue 8 August 2007

Happy August!
There is a lot happening at the OKC Metro Knit Guild. Thanks for being a part of our meeting today. Here’s what happened….

******************* Reports **************************


Charity Knitting (Carolyn Faircloth)
* Kathy Knox has stepped down from chairing this committee. We appreciate all the work she has done this year in this area and look forward to having her back in the chair position at a later time.
* Linda Pahdoco volunteered to take over this area. We welcome Linida and her many talents!
Charity Knitting Notebook: With the switchover in committee chair, our pattern notebook was not available today. It will be back at the meeting next week.

Guild Library (Bethany)
Reviewed some of the books we have in our Guild library. If you would like to view what is available, you can go to http://www.okcknitlibrary.blogspot/. If you would like Bethany to bring anything specific to a guild meeting, just let her know.

Beginner Knitting/Social Committee (Terri Derrick)
· Recapped our World Wide Knit In celebration.
· Beginner’s Kits: We are in need of size 8 or bigger needles.
· Gave out two beginner’s kits at the meeting (Hooray!!)

Finances (Keela Mostek)
* Financial update
* Passed out membership packets

Secretary (Brenda Asher)
New website is still being worked on.

********** Old Business **************************
Profile Sheets: If you haven’t filled one out, be sure to do so at the next meeting

2008 Educational Programs: We have gotten a lot of suggestions for topics next year. Carolyn is working on a schedule and getting it all blocked out for next year.

By-Laws & Member Packets: Packets were handed out to everyone who has voluntarily contributed $5 or more to the Guild. If you have contributed money but were not able to get to the meeting today, we will have the packet for you at next month’s meeting.


**************** New Business ***************************
Holiday Party: Begin thinking about what you all would like to do for our Holiday Party. If you have any suggestions, let Terri Derrick know.



***** Educational Program: Janice Robinson ******
Wow! This presentation was great! Janice owns an alpaca farm just out of Oklahoma City. She showed us pictures of all of her alpacas and talked to us about the shearing process, how it goes to the mill, and comes back. She also showed us some things that were made with yarn made from alpacas.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Vol 2 Issue 7 July 2007

Hello to all Knitters!

Our July meeting was FANTASTIC!! We had 21 people at our meeting - 11 of them were first time visitors and new to knitting. It was so exciting to see all the people who knit working with those who wanted to learn. A big thanks to so many of you who pitched in and helped out - you all are the BEST! I am looking forward to next month to see what they have accomplished during our absence. For those of you who were not able to make it, we missed you and look forward to seeing you next month. Have a wonderful month knitting!


************************ Reports ************************

Charity Knitting (Kathy Knox)
Kathy discussed updates on meeting with our contact at Baptist's NICU. She also talked about the Precious Pals program with TKGA.

Librarian (Bethany Mickle)
Bethany showed us a few examples of books we have available in our library. She also presented a new book that was sent to us from a Sales Rep with Tauton Press. The title of the book is "When Bad Things Happen to Good Knitters."

Beginning Knitters & Social (Terri Derrick)
We are doing well with our donations at this time; however, we appreciate any donations that can be used in putting together our beginning knitters totes.

Treasurer (Keela Mostek)
We still have several donated memberships available. If you would like to become a member of the Knit Guild and cannot make a monetary donations, please see Keela or any one of the board members.

Secretary (Brenda Asher)
We have our own web domain name now. Linda and I are in the midst of learning about it and trying to get it up and running. I am hoping that by August, we can have you accessing our web site instead of the blog.


************************ Old Business ************************

Profile Sheets
We thank all of you who have filled out a profile sheet. If you have not filled one out, you can pick up a profile sheet at the entry table at our meeting. If you need to update your information, you can email Carolyn or get with her at our next meeting.

2008 Educational Program
We are working on our educational programs for next year. If you have an idea of something you would like to learn or teach, please let one of the board members know.

Membership Packets
Our membership packets are close to being finished. Here are some of the things our packets will include:
>>> a membership card
>>> a copy of our by-laws
>>> TKGA application
>>> a list of current books in our library
>>> Knit Guild Membership Directory
>>> Officers contact list
>>> charity guide and pattersn
>>> A list of Oklahoma yarn shops
This should be available at our August meeting.

Promotional Fliers
The Oklahoma City Metropolitan Library has graciously created, printed and helped in distributing fliers about the OKC Metro Knit Guild. Fliers have been posted all around town at each of the libraries and in various other locations. A BIG thanks to Anita and others involved in this project!!

*********************** New Business *************************

Thank You Card
A thank you card was sent to Taunton Press for their book donation. All members at the guild meeting had the chance to sign their name to it.

Stitch and Pitch
For those of you who love to knit AND love to watch baseball, here's your chance. On August 6th in St. Louis, there will be a "Stitch and Pitch" event. For more information, you can check out their website at http://www.stichandpitch.com/.


********************** Educational Program ***********************

Keela Mostek did a wonderful job of showing us how easy it is to enter a knitted item in the Oklahoma State Fair. She talked about the various categories that you can enter an item in, showed us the paperwork involved, and showed us various samples of work (and her BLUE ribbons) that she has entered into the State Fair. Thanks for such a wonderful job, Keela!!!

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Volume 2 Issue 6 June 07

Despite the fact that it was Father’s Day, we had a great turn out at the last Guild meeting. If you weren’t there, we missed you LOTS and hope to see you next month!


***************** Reports *****************

Charity Knitting (Carolyn Faircloth)
Hats, blankets, and bunting sets are still needed to help out local hospitals.
We are still looking for ways to collect bears to go with our TKGA charity project. If you have any donate or know of someone who would be willing to donate a bear, please let one of the board members know. We are hoping to make a presentation of our bears and sweaters in December.

Guild Library (Bethany)
A complete list of the titles available for checking out from the guild library is now available online. If you would like to view what is available, you can go to http://www.okcknitlibrary.blogspot.com. If you would like Bethany to bring anything specific to a guild meeting, just let her know.

Beginner Knitting/Social Committee (Carolyn Faircloth)
The public Knit In day was a huge success. Thanks to Terri and Anita for all their hard work in coordinating and getting this event together. Everyone who went had a wonderful time and new friends were made.

Finances (Keela Mostek)
There are 6 memberships that have been donated. If you would like to become a member and are unable to donate at this time, please see Keela and she will get you set up as a member.
A separate account has not been set up yet for the guild. We are still looking into the options and trying to figure out what will be best for the guild in the long run.

Secretary (Brenda Asher)
We are still working on the new website and hope to have that up and running before the summer is over. Thanks to Linda Pahdoco for all her hard work getting it started.
Knit Guild History Scrapbook: I am going to start working on a scrapbook showing the history and current happenings for the guild. If you have any information and/or pictures on how the guild was started and past meetings and events through now, please let me know. I would like to get it going and up to date by mid-August.

***************** Old Business *****************

Profile Sheets: If you haven’t filled one out, be sure to do so at the next meeting

2008 Educational Programs: We are working on getting our list of presenters lined up for 2008. If you would like to present at one of our meetings, please let Carolyn or one of the board members know. In addition, if you have any good ideas for next year, let us know!
By-Laws & Member Packets: coming soon…………

Local Yarn Shop Perks: (Linda Pahdoco)
We have contacted all of the local yarn shops about any kind of perks they could provide to our guild members. Margaret (Gourmet Yarn) has set something up for us through a vendor while she was at market (BIG THANKS to Margaret!!!). We will get more of the details on what it will be soon. We are still working with other yarn shops and will let you know if anything comes through.

***************** New Business *****************

The Metro Oklahoma City Knitting Guild is now listed on the national website for the Knitting Guild of America!!

*********** Educational Program: Enterlac ************

A BIG THANKS to Linda Pahdoco for showing us how to do Entrelac Knitting. Linda did a wonderful job of showing us various items made from this technique as well as showing us how to do entrelac knitting. GREAT JOB, Linda!

Friday, May 25, 2007

Volume 2 Issue 4 May 2007

A Note from the President…..
Many thanks, as always, for everyone's participation and input at the meeting and for the contributions of the precious baby items for the NICU!! I am so very proud to be a member of such a fantastic group!!!

I'm excited about our Knit In Public day at the library on June 9th!! Let's show up in force and let non-knitters know what they are missing!

As we go into the hot Oklahoma summer months it brings to mind that I used to think....years ago...that it was too hot to knit in the summer!! What was I thinking?!! There are so many options for small projects in cotton and other light weight fibers out there!! A perfect time for lace weight shawls, socks, baby projects, etc. So until next month...
Knit On!
Carolyn

**************** Reports **************************

Charity Knitting: With our recent affiliation with The Knitting Guild of American, we are now part of the nation wide charity program “Precious Pals.” For those who would like to, you can make clothing for stuffed bears that are used by our local law enforcement officials when they are dealing with children involved in traumatic experiences. Several copies of patterns for sweaters are in the Charity Notebook. You can pick them up at the next meeting!

Librarian: Welcome to our new librarian, Bethany Mickle. Bethany has created a new blog site showing what is available in our library. The site is: http://www.okcknitlibrary.blogspot/ . Thanks, Bethany!!!

Knit In Public (KIP) Day: Terri Derrick
Terri reminded us of the World Wide Knit In Public Day on Saturday, June 9th. Members of the Guild are going to meet downtown at the Ron Norrick Metro Library from 11:00 – 1:00 and knit in the atrium. For more information on the World Wide Knit In Day, check it out at http://www.wwkipday.com/.

Treasurer Report: Keela Mostek
A payment of $25 was made to The Knit Guild of America for affiliation dues.

************** Old Business *****************

Profile Sheets: A reminder if you have not filled out a profile sheet yet, please do. Information from these sheets will be used to make up a membership directory.

Contributing Member Packets: Carolyn Faircloth
We are continuing our work on creating a membership packet for all contributing members. Enclosed in the packet will things like: a membership card, membership directory, officer contact list, list of all the yarn shops in the metro and surrounding areas (maybe even state-wide), etc. We are still trying to work out the details on some things. Hopefully we will have this together before to long.

Web Domain: Linda Pahdoco
A website has been secured and we are in the process of getting it formatted and ready to set up. We are excited about this as a website will provide us with new opportunities to promote member talents and the Guild. We will let you know when it is available.


*************** New Business **************

2008 Educational Topics
What would you like to learn in 2008? That is what everyone was asked at our meeting. A brainstorming sheet was sent around and ideas were collected for possible subjects in 2008. If you weren’t at the meeting and have some ideas, please let one of the board members know.

Holiday Party
Discussion was held to see if we wanted to have a holiday party in December again. The answer was unanimously “yes.” Plans will get underway as the holidays approach us.


***** PROGRAM: CABLE KNITTING *********


It was good to have Melissa Ryan back with us. Melissa did a wonderful job educating us on the history of the various cable stitch patterns. She also gave us the low down on what books were available through the Public Library System. Melissa also showed us some different cable patterns made up into sweaters and afghans. Then Melissa got us going with a set of needles, a very easy cable pattern and a demonstration of how to work a cable stitch. GREAT JOB, MELISSA!


**************************************************
For further information regarding individual membership with The Knit Guild of America, see their website at: http://www.tkga.org/

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Volume 2 Issue 3 April 2007

A Note from the President....
I am so honored that you have given me the opportunity to serve as your President this year! I appreciate your confidence in me and I will do my best to serve the Guild well. Thanks to each of you for your attendance and vote at the April Meeting. I am excited about the upcoming year and our efforts to "Build the Guild" and increase membership.

We really appreciate those of you who have contributed items for the NICU at Baptist Hospital. The Charity Table has been FULL of precious hats, booties, sweaters, buntings and blankets the past two months. Thank you, thank you...you are all awesome!!

I also want to thank the Executive Committee and the Committee Chairs for stepping up and spending your time and talents to make our Guild the best that it can be. I couldn't do it without you!
Knit On!

Carolyn Faircloth

********************** REPORTS **********************

Charity Knitting (Kathy Knox)
* Kathy took her first trip to Baptist hospital to present them with the many items you have knitted for them. They were very excited and so appreciative.
* Pattern Notebook: A notebook is now on display at each meeting containing patterns for hats, booties, and layettes/buntings. Each member is encouraged to take copies of the different patterns to use for our Charity knitting. Thank you Kathy for coming up with this great idea and getting it started!

Beginner Kits (Terri Derrick)
* We could use more of the small cosmetic bags to place in the beginner kits. These bags are used to hold various knitting tools (scissors, counters, place holders, etc.) that knitters use. They do not have to expensive ones either. Terri suggested getting them from someplace like The Dollar Tree or similar store.

PR - Promoting the Guild (Terri Derrick)
* Saturday, June 9th marks the next date for the US Public Knit In. Terri has lined up the atrium at the Oklahoma City Public Library located in downtown OKC. We will meet that Saturday at 11am and knit in the atrium until 1pm. Fliers, posters, etc. will be used to tell interested people more about the Knit Guild. The address is 300 Park Ave (between Park and Hudson) and parking is free on the weekend.

Financial Report (Keela Mostek)
* Keela gave a report on what we currently have in our Guild account.
* She is still researching possibilities for establishing a Knit Guild bank account.

********************** OLD BUSINESS **********************
TKGA Affiliated
We are now affiliated with The Knit Guild of America!!! The vote was put before the members at our Sunday meeting as to whether we wanted to become affiliated with TKGA or not. The vote was 16-0 in favor of TKGA. Carolyn will be filling out the paperwork and getting the necessary information together in the next few weeks to send in to them. Thank you for all the questions and discussion prior to our voting. If you have any other questions, please let any of the board members know and we will be happy to try and answer them.

Profile Sheets
The board is encouraging that all members fill out a Profile sheet. The information on it will help us as a Guild to know each other better. The information listed on the profile sheets will be used at a later date in our membership directory. If you do not want any of your information to be listed in the membership directory, please make a note of it on your profile sheet.

New Librarian
A big THANKS to Bethany Mickel for volunteering to be the Knit Guild Librarian. We are excited to have her oversee this for us.

Membership Packets
Linda Pahdoco has been talking with several of the knit shops in Oklahoma City about some special incentives for members of the OKC Knit Guild. At this time, nothing has been decided yet and it may take a few more months to determine if this is something we will be able to do. Thank you Linda, for taking the time to work on this!

New Website
The Executive Board is currently looking into the possibility of setting up our own website. Our web blog has been a wonderful tool for getting information out to everyone, but limits us to the amount of space we have. In addition, we would like to expand the services and information available to our Guild Members. More on this later.....

********************** NEW BUSINESS **********************
Knit Guild Meeting Sign In
The Library has asked that each member come by the registration desk up in the Library and sign in for the meeting. This is for their records. The Library has been gracious enough to underwrite the cost of our meeting room for us. To show our support and to document that we are presenting educational programs, please take the time to stop by and sign in each month. Don't forget to sign our Guild book too down in the meeting room!

PR - Promoting the Guild
The Marketing Department for the Metro Library system has graciously agreed to meet with Carolyn Faircloth to help us design and set up brochures for our Guild. Carolyn is hoping to meet with them within in the next few weeks. The brochures will be used through the different libraries to advertise our Guild and meeting times. We will also get to use them as a public tool to reach out into the community and promote interest in the Guild.

Beginner Knitting Classes
The group discussed the idea of having a special time set aside to teach people the beginning steps to knitting. Several suggestions were discussed - having a special Sunday meeting day set aside devoted to beginner knitters only; having a beginner's knitting class separate from Guild meetings (i.e. on a Tues night). No dates or times were set by the group at this time. We will need to discuss it at future meetings. We will be advertising at our Public Knit In on June 9th that we are willing to show people how to knit.

****************** EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM ******************
Knitting With Beads ---- Jo Ellyn Wheeler
WOW....what an exciting program! Jo Ellyn showed us the various techniques for knitting with beads. She had some wonderful sample cards showing the different ways and types of beads you could use. In addition, she had samples ready for everyone to work with so they could experience knitting with beads. Thank you Jo Ellyn for taking the time to share your knowledge and talent with us!