Summer fun!

By the Bay-April 2011 Hook-In

2011-04-05T14:46:00.000-07:00

Today was a day filled with inspiration, By the Bay Rug Hooking Group welcomed Bea Grant, Gayle Gunby, Lori Lennox, Angie Brandon and Debbe Bloom to our Hook-IN, the house was packed with talent(and I mean all of you ladies not just the guests). It is wonderful to see what others bring to the group and it encourages us all to expand our knowledge of the craft, by trying a new technique or listening to the wisdom of those with more knowledge.

Bea Grant (well know teacher and designer) is shown in this picture with her beautiful rug, which depicts a story of her life. She shares her stories and knowledge so freely, a breath of fresh air, we are honored to have her join us.

Pictured from left to right-Ann Hallett, Jane Allen, Bea Grant, Mary Ann Mclaughlin, Margaret Thomas.

By the Bay-April 2011 Hook-In

2011-04-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

Pictured from left to right-Ann Hallett, Jane Allen, Bea Grant, Mary Ann Mclaughlin, Margaret Thomas.

Summer Fun!!!

2010-07-16T05:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Summer has been so busy, getting ready forLibrary garden tour and the exhibition at Les Studio des Artiste in Lafontaine, plus keeping up with the sales in Collingwood and at the Studio( I mean making the product to sell), and planning for the upcoming studio tour for Penetang and Tiny Oct 2 and 3rd, like I said busy.........................

The Tuesday morning Hook/Knit In is still happening through the summer other than July 27th which I am taking off for a little holiday. We are still getting people coming although it has slowed down with people off to the cottage and holidays.

Studio des Artiste in Lafontaine is open weekly Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays throughout the summer, there will be a different group of artists every 2 weeks, do drop in and support there efforts, it is a lovely show.

This weekend July 17 and 18, Art in the Park will be in the Kitchekewana Park in Penetanguishene down by the waterfront, and Festival du Loup will be in Lafontaine, (maybe you can take in the Studio des Artiste at the same time)

I will be exhibiting at the Studio des Artiste along with Sharon Nix and Joe Attard from August 12th-22nd, 2010.

MAKE Collective in Collingwood is open Thursdays to Mondays 11-5pm, it is a collection of 16 different artists work, do drop in and take a peek, you will be pleasantly surprised...

The ladies at the studio have be busy hooking, their work is lovely, please feel free to drop in to the hookin on Tuesdays to view their work, all are welcome.

Hopefully you are all having a wonderful summer, do drop in for a visit if you get the chance.

See ya, Karen

Spring classes and hookins

2010-03-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you know "By the Bay Rug hooking Group" will be meeting at the studio every 3rd Sat of the month from 10-2pm.

I will be holding a beginner class on Mondays from 6-8pm starting April 5th for 4 weeks. The cost of the class is $75, the kits are $70 which includes your pattern, wool, hoop and hook. If you have your hoop and hook, I will subtract that from the cost.

I am sorry to have taken so long to get this figured out but with reno's, a new grandchild, holidays and work it gets hard to stop long enough to have dinner let alone make the new schedule. Hope those of you interested will be ok with the times I have chosen, but with my other obligations this is what fits. Hope you all can make it.

The above rug was made for my daughter Nicole's 30th birthday, it is of her paternal grandparents home on Cambridge St, Penetanguishene. The house was sold a few years ago and has been demolished, she has fond memories of the place and asked that I make her the rug. she was quite pleased with the outcome which I was glad of.

The MAKE store in Collingwood has been doing very well. I sold 2 rugs and wool coats the first weekend, I have also sold the Hip/Hop Rabbit pillow and a 3D sheep, and have another order for the hip/hop pillow. The other artists are doing well also, it is worth having a stop in as it is quite a unique little shop.

By the way I have a new addition to our family, Nathaniel Charles Mortellitti was born March 9th, 2010 at around 4:15pm, at 9lbs 4oz. He's a keeper!

Has Spring Sprung

2010-03-08T04:35:00.000-08:00

There is a new store downtown Collingwood!!!!!!! MAKE opened Feb 19th, the store is a collective of 16 artists who show, work and sell their work at this lovely little boutique. Allison Billings the owner has done a wonderful job of bringing it all together. Drop in and take a look if you are ever in Collingwood.

Just an update on how our group has progressed since January. We are now meeting here in the newly updated studio, the number of people attending has been encouraging. Our Hookers and Knitters meet every Tuesday from 10-2pm, you are encouraged to bring a pair of slippers, a brown bag lunch and your own mug ( I don't like doing dishes). Coffee/tea/bottled water are a loonie, for a bottomless cup, money jar is there and we are on the honor system here.
We will be closed the week of March break so no group that week only. The store will be shut down from Wed Mar 10-Mon March 22 for holidays. See ya on the 23rd for group.

By the Bay rug hookers hosted a Weekend rug show on Feb 19,20 & 21st at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum, Winterama weekend. I would like to thank everyone who
donated their time and rugs to make it the success it was. I had wonderful comments from the community about how well we did. Special thanks to Barb for help setting up the displays.

Dorothy Parker and I did demonstration of Rug Hooking at the Simcoe County Museum on Saturday for the Celebration of Arts and Crafts. There was a very good attendance. This event is sponsored by a Trillium Grant and we will be getting a donation to our group for attending. We will have to vote on how we will spend our money when we get it.

I have the yarn shop set up in it's new spot downstairs, I find it a much larger and organized space and hope you will all find time to come in and take a look.

Hopefully with the new studio we will see more people attending and have more workshops as it can sit everyone comfortably. See you all when I get back from holidays-Kirsten will be taking my messages and I will get back to people next week. See ya all soon.

Happy New Years 2010

2010-01-04T05:10:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years to All,

I hope your Christmas was merry and bright and that you all have a wonderful New Year.

I am going into the New Year with a new attitude, I have been thinking how my last year has been which was a bit difficult as some of you know, and it actually started off that way and now that is all behind me all I can think about is how fortunate I am to be where I am now and have the family and friends that have supported me through the rough times and are still here now to revel in the good times.
I am working diligently on getting the downstairs finished so I can move the shop down there. We will have much more space and a great work area. I am not pushing too hard but do alittle something each day and it will get done. Hopefully by the end of January but if not it won't be long after.

I am going to book my classes whether they will be upstairs or down will be decided at the time but the dates are booked.

Knitting Socks-Monday January 18-Feb 8th 2010 from 6pm-8pm
-Previous knitting experience a must(knit/purl and how to cast on)
-make a pair of socks in 4 weeks, learn how to knit socks on 4 double pointed
needles..
Kit plus 4 weeks of lessons-$55
You may also join us for our weekly knitin each Tues from 10am-12noon at no
charge for guidance.

Beginner Rug Hooking-Sat Jan 23 and Sat Feb 6, 2010 from 10 am-2pm
bring a brown bag lunch-desserts and drinks are provided
-Come make a small rug hooked piece. You will learn of the history of rug
hooking, how to design, hook and finish a small project.
-Your kit and classes will cost $95, you will need to buy or bring a hoop,
hook and a small pair of scissors.
You may also join in our weekly knit/hook in on Tues from 10am-12noon for
extra guidance if needed at no charge.

I will be doing a demonstration of MINI MEMORIES at the "NEW" Quest Art Gallery on January 28th, 2010 monthly meeting, mini memories are small rug hookings done in fine cut from a picture or drawing and mounted in a matt frame. I will be teaching this course in studio on February 13th from 10-2pm-kits will cost $20 there will be no teaching fee that day so please sign up early to get a seat. Bring your hoops, fine hooks and a cup for your coffee/tea.

Needlefelted Slippers-Sat January30th 2010 from 10am-2pm
-learn the art of needle felting and make yourself a pair of slippers
-kits and course cost $55
-bring yourself a brown bag lunch-desserts ,coffee/tea are provided

That's the course line up for January and February, please book in early as some of the course seats are already spoken for-deposits for courses are mandatory to hold your seat.

Have a wonderfully artsy new year! Karen

Where's the time gone?

2009-08-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Just a note to say hi, and that the stores still standing. As you all know it has been a bit of an ordeal keeping things going this year with being a ill and all, but I'm feeling much better and the shops up and running again.
I do have plans to fix up the old sign shop downstairs and move the shop down there, which will give us much more space for classes and merchandise. I'm just not sure when this will happen as I am only one person and there is quite abit of work to do. So far I have cleaned it all and bought the paint. I still need to take some stuff to the dump, take down a wall and some old cupboards and a bit of old shelving and then I can get at the painting. I just don't have the energy I used to and can't seem to get it all done in a day like I used to,LOL . Oh well, we all have our dreams.
The store will remain where it is for the time being with a few changes, I am hoping to introduce a vintage line. I have had the opportunity over the past year to aquire used & new but older knitting needles and crochet hooks, I am planning to sterilize them and package them so they can a be sold at a discounted price, I am hoping to carry vintage items in the shop so you as the customer can benefit both by helping our enviroment by recycling product and monetarily.

The store will be focusing on Canadian made natural yarns, hand dyed yarns and woolens for both knitting , crocheting and rughooking.
Please feel free to stop in anytime to see the new "Karen's Kolors", in yarn and fleece. These are great for thrum mitts and socks.

There are NEW rug hook patterns available in the shop:
22x29" Harvest's Blessing-wallhanging-$30
7"x18" Little Fishy-pillow top or to hang-$15
19"x21" Sunflowers-$25

Hope you all are having a good summer, despite the weather and all are well.
See ya soon, K

Spring has Sprung!!!

2009-03-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to see the sunshine we have had over the past week, although today is cloudy with a bit of rain it makes me glad to think the snow is leaving and the rain is finishing off the little snow we have left and cleaning up the dirt left behind by the melting snow.
I have had a difficult winter, with all the health problems but I seem to be getting better over the past few weeks and my ambition and inspiration is returning. I want to thank you all for your well wishes and concern during this time , and also for your patience where the courses and shop are concerned.

The needle felting course has been rescheduled to Saturday April 18th, 2009, from 10-2pm. Students are asked to bring a brown bag lunch, I will provide desserts, tea and coffee.
We will be making a pair of needle felted slippers, from recycled materials, and hand dyed roving. The pattern will be pre-cut so we can get started on our felting right away. They can be seen at the studio as I have a few pairs made.
Cost for the course is $45 which includes class fee, needle felting kit and slipper cut outs and roving.

I am planning another rug hooking course and will give dates when I have more people interested, right now there are 4 people on the list, when 6 are interest I will book a date.

Hopefully you are all able to get out and enjoy the nice weather we are having, if you are out and about please feel free to drop in, See ya soon, Karen

Happy New Year!

2009-01-03T11:16:00.000-08:00

Can you believe all the snow we have had so far this year, I think we have got it all in one month, at least we can hope we have. I find I just get the urge to sit by a cozy fire, or in front of the TV and pick up my knitting needles or hooks, and work on a new project. Last year my son bought me the book "Son of Stitch and Bitch", it has updated fashion knits for young men which I am finally getting around to knitting ( I really do believe he deserves a sweater just for the thought of buying me such a wonderful gift, no one ever thinks I would like a pattern book probably because they think it pertains to my work, but my work is my joy). I thought of starting all my knitting in January for next Christmas, my problem is that I get sidetracked along the way with the store and other projects- I will try to keep more focus this year and see what comes of it.

The new Rug Hooking Magazine is in for January/February 2009, we continue to have the rug hookin on Thursday mornings from 10-12 . All are welcome to join in, please bring your own cup for fill ups.

Our knitting group continues on Wed mornings 10-12.

We have a new group on Wednesday evenings from 7-9-all textile arts are welcome, whether you needlepoint, knit, crochet, tat, embroider, cross stitch or rug hook come join in for an evening of comradeship, a little stitch and _itch. Please bring your own mug and we will give you free fill ups.

I will be away from the store for the week of Jan 19th and not really sure when I will be reopening as I will be having surgery that week. Believe me as soon as I am able I will be back at the helm but will need a little recovery time first of course. Please watch your mail for news of the reopening as I will be sure to let you all know.

I hope that the New Year brings you all much joy, good health and prosperity, Happiness to all,
Karen

A little news

2008-10-20T03:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Hope everyone is enjoying the wonderful fall weather and the beauty that surrounds us at this time of year. Last weekend I was on Manitoulin Island and the leaves were in their full glory of color, the scenery was magnificent. Yesterday I spent the day in Bala at the Cranberry festival, and the leaves have been falling but the sun was shining and it was still beautiful. It's funny how I imagine trying to hook all that beauty in a rug, but I don't know if you could ever do it justice.

Just to let everyone know that new rug hooking yardage has come into the shop and the rug supplies are now up on the main floor. The Christmas patterns are starting to come out also, I will be making up kits this week for Christmas ornaments and 3-D Santas or Christmas trees. The store will now be open Saturdays from 10-3pm for winter hours now that my saturday shows are over and the job at the town dock has ended.

Last week the Orillia group had Germaine James who has been teaching for over 30 years come up to Linda Wilson's for "Playing with Plaids". We hooked one piece with a plaid which we used for more than one color and 1-2 plains to make a geometric pattern which is very effective. It was a great 2 days and it was wonderful to see all my hooking friends again. I am hoping to do a 2 day course on this style before Christmas, anyone interested in attending please email and let me know and I will add your name to the list.

The new beginner course will be staring November 5th and still has 2 seats available. They will be doing a 7"x12" Christmas project for hanging or using as a table mat.

We had 2 dye courses in September and I am pleased to see that the students went home and are dyeing for their rugs. I love to see people gain the confidence to do their rugs from start to finish, by drawing their own pattern, dyeing their own wool and finishing. I then feel I have done my job well.

Well ladies I hope you are all enjoying this glorious season as much as I am, if you haven't done so take a moment for yourselves and touch nature, it does us the world of good. Have a great week. Karen

Upcoming Courses

2008-07-23T06:30:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I am finally getting settled in, at least the shop is somewhat organized. I have tons of work left to do on the rest of the house but I will get to it one day at a time. My neighbour Barb, said her husband used to tell her that you can't eat an elephant all in one day, I will take that advice to heart, as I have watched Barb working hard on her home for the past 2 years and they have finally opened their Bed & Breakfast, "Georgian Terrace" this past month. All their hard work has paid off, congratulations on a job well done!

The store has reopened and has been reasonably busy for summer. I will be running courses starting in August, as well as there will be a hookin/knitin. Here are the dates as follows:

Beginner Dye Course
One day Course: Tues Aug 5- 9:30am-2pm
Saturday Aug 16 9:30am-2pm
course outline: we will be working with natural and acid dyes, safety, intro to the color wheel, learn about setting agents, interactive dyeing(groups of 3), each student will go home with pieces that they have dyed.
Costs $80/student, supplies are included in course cost. Please bring apron, safety glasses and rubber gloves to class.

Beginner Rug Hooking
Four week course: Wed Aug 6-27th 6:30-8:30pm
Wed Sept 3-24th 6:30-8:30pm
Thurs Sept 4-25th 1-3pm
Course Cost $40, Kit and supplies $75

Intermediate Dye Course
One Day Course: Tues Sept 9th 9:30am-2pm
course outline: more color wheel, mixing dyes, marbelizeing, casserole dyeing, dip dyeing.
Course costs: $80/student, supplies included. Please bring apron, safety glasses, and rubber gloves to class.

Let's knit Socks!
Sat Sep 6, 13, 27 & Oct 1.
course cost: $40 Kit/needles $25

Let's make Thrum Mitts!
Oct 18, 25, Nov 1, 8
Course cost: $40 Kit/needles $25

Let's make Felted Mitts!
Nov 1, 8, 15, 22
Course cost: $40 Kit/Needles $35

Summer HookIn and KnitIn: Monday August 25th, 2008 10am-5:30pm
location: Centennial Museum,13 Burke St, Penetanguishene, we will hook/knit on the mnuseum grounds from 10am-1:30 when we will proceed to the town dock to hook/knit on the Georgian Queen for a 31/2h cruise. Costs $25 ($20 for group rate of 20 or more)
Please Rsvp by calling me at 705-549-1060

Sat Sept 20th-Settler's Day
Join us for a Hookin at Penetanguishene's Centennial Museum from 10am-4pm in celebration of the Drummond Island Settler's. There will be festivities throughout the museum, you are welcome to bring your lunck or there will be BBQ lunch available at minimal cost. Please let us know if you would like to attend by calling me at 705-549-1060

I hope I've got it all! For some reason I have done this 3 times and have wiped it out twice now-very frustrating. If you can think of any other courses you may want (there are some I will do this winter, such as needle felting, folk art and special rug hooking courses(primitives) Just ask!
I hope you all have a wonderful summer season. Take care and God Bless! Karen

Studio by the Bay- relocation

2008-06-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here and Studio by the Bay has had it's 1st anniversary as of June 23rd. It is hard to believe that we have been in business for 1 year already. As most of you know I have moved to 11 Water St, and will be moving the store there this weekend. I am hoping to be open for July 2nd, although I may still have some organizing to do we will still have the knit/hook ins as usual.

Louise Zoschke, Gayle Gunby, Ann Hallett and I all attended the Trent School of Rug Hooking 2 weeks ago. It was a very busy week, and we got to see all the upcoming courses previewed for next year, coming home with lots of ideas.

I was speaking with Nicole from Centennial Museum today and we are planning to do a hookin on the grounds with one of the museum events, I hope to hear more about this in the next couple weeks. Hopefully we can make this an annual event and put the message out to the other branches as an invite.

There will be a Beginner course, Dye courses and kit courses offered over the summer, they will be 1 day courses that require a brown bag lunch and your hook, hoop and scissors. If interested contact me by email or phone and I will be glad to answer any of your questions.

Happy Canada Day, all!!!
Karen

Bring on Spring!!!

2008-03-04T16:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
It has been a very busy winter, as well as a very snowy and cold one. I'm sure you are all looking forward to spring as much as I am. Hopefully with March coming in as a lion, we will see it go out as a lamb.

We had a very successful rug show at our Winterama. It was so nice to see all who came out to join in the fun and try their hand at hooking. There have been some wonderful comments from the public so you can all be proud of your efforts. Thanks to all of you who participated by joining in the hookin, setting up and donating rugs, we couldn't have done it with out you.

Gayle Gunby and I have just returned from a 4 day weekend at Germaine James, a 2 day course in Wide cut as a prerequisite to the OHCG TTEC Program, and a teachers meeting in Brighton. It was as the kids say "AWESOME". Germaine and her husband Terry were the ultimate hosts, and they have a lovely home with a tranquil setting in the country just N of Brighton. Germaine is a lovely woman with a good heart with amazing teaching skills, it was intense and very inspiring experience that I would highly recommend.

There are some wonderful courses coming up in the fall at the OHCG School at Mount Mary Retreat in Ancaster, ON and The Burlington Art Centre in Burlington, ON. If you are interested in attending I have the applications in the Store.
Our next event will be the Annual coming up May2,3 and 4 at the North Simcoe Recreation Centre in Midland. I encourage those of you who want to attend to join the OHCG and get your applications in, as Mar 31st is the last date to apply.
If anyone is planning to show their work we will have to send in the applications and get organized about setting up our booth for the show. Could those planning to help set up our booth please let me know so we can organize ourselves.

I am expecting my new Grandaughter on Thurs Mar 6th, it is so exciting and I am furiously knitting in anticipation of the birth. As Niki doesn't like the feel of wool I have knitted a Marble pattern with Cotton Tweed. It is working up beautifully and hopefully it will be finished by the time my "Bella" gets here.

My sister's daughter-in-law has gone into early labor, and as I write this newletter is at Orillia Soldiers Memorial, they figure she will give birth by 6am tomorrow. I'm sure everything will work out fine, but it would be nice if you could say a few extra prayers for them.

Well hopefully our weather gets better and we can all get out to the next meeting at the superstore, hope to see you there, Karen

Happy New Year!

2008-01-11T05:14:00.000-08:00

It's off to a busy start to the year as the beginner rug class will be starting on Jan 23rd. There has been good response to the wednesday morning knitin(10-12am), the ladies are great for sharing information and inspiring each other. We also have had good particiapation at the hookin on Thursday morning from 10-12, all are welcome to join us.

The Patchwork Rughooking Branch will be presenting a rug show at the Centennial Museum in Penetanguishene for Winterama Weekend on Feb 15, 16 and 17th. I have invited the Orillia Sunshine Rughooking Branch to join us and will be also inviting the Huronia Branch from Barrie.
We will be having a hookin from 12-4pm at the museum and have tables set up for the public to try their hand at pulling loops. I am looking for volunteers to help to set up on the Thursday afternoon (Feb14th) those who would like to help please call me at the store 549-1060.

The OHCG Annual will take place at the North Simcoe Rec Center in Midland on May 3, 4 and 5th. You must be a member of the OHCG to participate in the full weekend. I encourage all to join as it will be a great opportunity for education, workshops, competition and to see rughooking at its finest. They will provide breakfast, lunch and dinner with speakers and entertainment plus refreshments on the Friday evening. The public will be allowed to attend on the Sunday only.
Patchwork Rughookers have been asked to put on a hookin for those who want to hook on the Sunday afternoon so the public can see what it is all about.

I have introduce a sport weight Alpaca yarn from Northfork Alpaca Farm in Uxbridge. Ian and Mary the owners take great pride in their alpacas and the yarn they produce. It is soft and luxurious in the natural colors, drop in and take a peek!

Fleece Artist hand-dyed yarn has been well recieved. There are still a few kits available. This yarn knits up beautifully with very inspiring vibrant colors.

Fraser-500 Cutters are available through the shop, if not in stock there is a 3 week wait for
delivery.

The next meeting of Patchwork Rughookers is Jan 19th from 12-4 at the Superstore, all are made welcome, so feel free to join in.

So as you can see we are off to a very exciting New Year, hope you can all join us for the fun.
Have a Happy, Healthy New Years everyone, Karen

Merry Christmas

2007-12-06T02:16:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!
I have been reflecting over the events in my life in the past year and realize I have so much to be thankful for. This year did not start out as well as I had wished as I was quite unwell for the 1st couple of months and was forced to leave a job I enjoyed. It's funny how life works out because it brought me to the conclusion that I would have to change my vocation and I started the little shop on Main St.
To be honest I was quite fearful that it may not work out but it has actually been a godsend. The greatest gift it has brought is the wonderful people who come through the doors that bring their creativity and inspiration to me on a daily basis. It is heartwarming to see those of like mind and kindred spirit gather to share their wisdom and build friendships around the table as we drink our tea. I thank you all for this blessing and hope that you all enjoy your time at the shop as much as I enjoy having you there.

The Patchwork of Hookers will be meeting on Sat Dec 8, at noon-4pm for their Christmas gathering, they are having a Secret Santa and are asking that those who wish to participate bring a homemade gift valued no more than $10. New members are always made welcome.

The new dates for the Patchwork meetings starting in January are as follows: Jan 19, 2008, Feb 2, Feb 23, Mar 1 and 29, Apr 26, May 31, June 13 from noon-4pm.
April 17, May 31, June 23 from 10am-2pm
If you have any questions please call me at the store. Hours are Tues-Sat 10-5. 705-549-1060

Fleece Artist yarns and kits have recently arrived at the store. If you haven't heard of them the yarn is delightful as it is all hand painted. Come in and take a look, it is just nice to see and touch.

Hoops and Hooks have (finally!) arrived. Natural Woolrich and Houndstooth is now in and red dot trace-a-pat is on its way. We have had many of the ladies ordering cutters and blades. I will order these for people on request they usually take 2-3 weeks to arrive.

Beginner class will start Tues. Jan 14th, 1-3 pm. I will have! the project at the studio to view the 1st week back in January. Call for more detail if needed.

There are new soaps and teas arriving as well we have a new silversmith, Linda Neilon who has brought in some wonderful handmade silver and semi-precious stone jewellery which has been very popular.
Gayle Moon has brought in some lovely Christmal jewellery as well as some lovely new colors for winter, she has such flare that girl!

Well the snow continues to blow and pile up but that hasn't seemed to stopped people from coming out(except last monday, I stayed in my pj's all day working around the house,then showered and put more pj's on, it was wonderful!), so bundle up, keep warm and have a safe and wonderful holiday season. Karen

August 30, 2007-Studio Newsletter

2007-08-30T02:56:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,
It's so hard to believe that summer is quickly coming to an end. It feels like it has flown by as it has been so eventful.
Our group met at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum for our monthly summer hook-in this month. The Museum has been very welcoming and view us as a positive addition as we demonstrate this historical art for all to view. It was a very relaxing meeting and the weather was lovely.
Ann Hallett was working on a wonderful monochromatic piece in blacks/browns/greys and 1 added color "oranges" as she was doing a pumpkin rug-it was stunning.
Sandy Gow finished her "Hip & Hop" design from the shop, it is amazing thow thw same pattern turns out so different, it is so vibrant and whimsical compared to mine. Good work Sandy.
Barb Charlebois brought some beautiful fruit motif chair pads to show us and continues to hook on the floral piece she is doing, which is lovely, all the work was done in yarn.
Neva brought her "Jennifer Manuel" purse patter of houses which she hooked with dyed nylons and added beaded handles, it is delightful and I hope she brings it to RUG to show it off and to show Jennifer.
Gail Lawson has finished her 3 bears rug also done in yarn, and has started a new one. Gails rugs all have a wonderful naive look to them and are very artistic.
Eileen Powers was working on a nautical piece using shoelaces for the white rope which was very effective.
It amazes me how much creative energy is brought to the group by all the members. I always come away with an abundance of inspiration after a meeting thanks to all of you.

Eileen will be letting us know the dates of the fall meetings at the superstore soon.

The ladies at the last meeting were requesting we do another tour on the Georgian Queen to see the fall colors. Perhaps a Saturday would be best so that our members that work during the week can attend without losing time. We will pick a date at the next meeting....Please feel free to bring a friend along even if they are not a hooker they can do another craft or just enjoy the view.

Ruggers United Gather will be held on September 29th this fall. I hope most of you can make it as it is a great time.

On August 11th, I attended the Metis Day at Discovery Harbour to talk about the history of rug hooking and do a display of the antique rug patterns and tools, plus show the newer rugs and do demonstration. It was a very successful day as we had over 500 people attend. It is a celebration of the Metis Culture and very interesting to visit. I came away with a happy heart and a sore throat from talking too much (I'm sure you all find that very hard to believe,HAHA)

August 22nd, I was asked to speak on the History of Rug Hooking to a group of ladies at the Centennial Museum. I would like to thank Barb Charlebois and Louise Zoschke very much for all the help the gave me in helping to show the antiquie patterns and demostrating how to pull loops to the ladies, you helped make the night a success. I think you should know that we were complimented by some of the ladies who visited the store afterwards. It is very rewarding to pass on the history and have it appreciated. It's surprising how many people talk about their memories of their mothers and grandmothers hooking rugs and even helping to cut the strips. It's too bad not more of these people had the rugs to show.

The "Beginner Rug Hooking Course" being offered through the studio will start on September 18th. There will be an afternoon class from 1-3 and an evening class from 7-9pm. The course will take place at the museum if there are more that 6 persons in the class or at my home if there are 6 or less. I will let the students know the location closer to the date.
The course cost will be $50 for 5 lessons, one of which will be a 1:1 course to pick or prep your pattern and learn how to measure the piece for the wool required.
There is a $20 deposit required to hold your seat and to order your hoop/hook which will run approximately $35 for both. The price of the pattern will depend on what you decide on. I have been donated recycled material which I will share with you all to keep the cost at a minimum.
Students are required to bring a small pair of sharp scissors, a margarine container(small) and a bag to hold your project and supplies. I hope to make this a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all who attend, so sit back and enjoy.
Happy Hooking Everyone,
Karen

All aboard

2007-07-26T01:45:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that we are half way through summer. It's been a busy one with the store, courses and obligations to family/friends, but a good one so far. I want to thank everyone for being so supportive of my new venture in starting the store, it sure makes life easier with friends like all of you.

We met for our hookin on the Georgian Queen on Tues July 24th. It was a great success and those who joined us enjoyed the trip and were wondering when we could do it again. We came up with the idea of taking the fall color tour, those interested can perhaps let me know and we can plan it at our next meeting at the superstore. I will post meeting dates at the superstore next month as I still need to get a hold of Theresa to get the dates from her(we have been playing phone tag).

Ann Hallet, Jennifer Kia and myself took the trip to Wiarton for another course with Wanda Kerr, this time we took the "Creativity Course" it was a very interesting day and informative course and I would recommend it hightly. The last 2 courses we took in June, faces and color course we equally as good and I am so thrilled I was able to take all three as you learn so much in one day. If anyone is interest in her courses just email me and I will give you her information.

I have been asked to do a display on the history of rug hooking, and demonstration of hooking on Metis Day at Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene, on Saturday August 11th. Metis Day depicts the life/history/culture of the Metis people in our area and how we came to the area after the war of 1812 when the Americans to Drummond Island and Mackinaw Island after the war. It was a very successful and interesting day last year with beading, salve making, soap making, trapping display... and should be the same and better this year as it will be our second time doing it. There will be cultural events going on all day and traditional foods being made. If you get the chance please come out and join the fun.

I will be having "Sip & Knits" at the store starting in September on Wednesday mornings from 10-noon and the same for hooking on Thursday mornings 10-noon, join me for a cup of tea and a good old chin wag. I will need you to call and let me know if your coming as I will only have room for 6 people so I can reserve the seats. Just let me know if you want to come by calling me at the store 549-1060, leave a message if it's after hours.

We will be having another hookin on August 21, 2007 at my home, 42 Water St, Penetanguishene from 1-4pm. Please feel free to drop in and join us, call the shop for directions if needed. Hope to you can join us. Happy Hooking/Knitting or what ever else inspires you, Karen

Studio by the Bay

2007-07-03T04:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
The store is finally open! It has been alot of work but it's has been so rewarding and I want to thank everyone who has come in to show their support. The store is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10-5:30 and Sat from 10-4. Sunday and Monday by chance or appointment.
My new phone # at home is 705-549-1060, please feel free to call if you need anything.

The Patchwork of Hookers next meeting will be on the "Georgian Queen" on Tuesday July 24, 2007 from 1:30-5:30pm, bring your hooking, your friends and a smile. The boat will be leaving at 2pm from the Penetanguishene Town Dock at the bottom of Main St in Penetang. Hwy 93, turns into Main St. so just follow it to the end. If you want to attend please give me a call at 549-1060(the store) or home 549-6624, if we have 20 people in our group our rate will be $20 if not it will be $25 each. Hope to see on board it's a beautiful cruise.

The store is carrying the art work of Cathy Earles a 3D stainglass artist and watercolorist, her cards come to life with her paintings of fish and her favorite fishing spots as she is an avid bass fisherlady. Her stainglass sailboats and schooners are beautiful would add to any decor.

We have Sandy Gows fibre arts, she is well known in our area for her beautiful quilts. She will design outdoor patio cushions to match your decor. Sandy has also taken up rug hooking and has applied that to her creations as well.

Donna Light is a local soap maker. The store has a lovely aroma thanks to her. The soaps are long lasting and have a delicious aroma. She also makes herbal teas which will also be available soon.

Gayle Moon has delighted us with her wire art jewellery. She has always had a flare for what looks good on us ladies and she hasn't disappointed us with the jewellery. (Alot of you may know Gayle from the Lindor store as she is the manager there.)

Kathy Stewart has brought is some of her beach bags and totes. A delightful accent for the beach. She has been a local nursery school teacher and has now turned her hand to sewing.

I guess I should mention myself, I design rugs and kits for the rug hooking and also do folk art.

We will also be getting work from George Varney(lead glass artist), Gayle Thompson(stainglass artist and teacher) and Ann Hallet(we actually have some of her Maple Leafs on sticks and rug hooked stars already)

Some of the artists will custom make items at your request so please don't hestitate to ask us if you are looking for a unique piece.

We also have a good selection of yarns in and rug hooking supplies, alittle bit of everything.
So hope to see you soon,
Have a great summer, Karen

Studio by the Bay

2007-06-14T19:21:00.001-07:00

Well the store is starting to come along and we are stocking the shelves. I'm hoping to open on Wed June the 20th and have a grand opening on the 23rd. I hope the signs are up(crossing my fingers) and all goes well but I expect like usual there will be a few glitches.

We have some wonderful artists contributing to our stock, Ann Hallet(after her studio tour is over), Kathy Earles who does wonderful 3D stain glass ships/wood work/watercolor, Sandy Gow who does beautiful fibre arts and designs, Elora Soap Works soap and much more..... plus rug hooking and knitting supplies and yarns. It is all so overwhelming to be honest with you all.

Yesterday I was at a meeting with the OHCG committee to put on the annual meeting here in Midland in May of 2008. I hope you will all consider joining the Guild so you can take part in the festivities as the event is fabulous. The theme will be "Hooked on History". It is well worth the cost of enrollment and the cost of attendance. If you don't join the public is allowed to look at the rugs on the Sunday. The Patchwork of Hookers have been invited to do a hookin at the annual on the Sunday, so we can tell the others about our area and how we came about. Also it will give you all a chance to find out more about the OHCG, kind of like trying it on without having to buy.
I have found joining the guild and the Orillia branch and having our own branch here very rewarding.

Well I better get some rest as I still have alot to do in the next week to get up and going, feel free to drop in anytime and hopefully I'll see you at the next hookin at my house(42 Water St, Penetang) 10-3pm on the 26th of June. Call for directions at 549-1060 or 549-6624.

Welcome

2007-05-29T02:53:00.001-07:00

It's been a long winter and my website is finally up and running no thanks to me, Sandy McGreeghan has been very patient and very intuitive when it comes to working with me.
It took me a while to decide how it should look and what it should say, a long process for me as I kept changing my mind in the middle of things. First I was doing an online shop and switched in the middle of everything to having a downtown location. Sandy really earned her money on this one. Anyway, we are up and running and the new shop will open by June 20th if not sooner, Paul and I are very excited about it all and hope you will all drop in for a cup of tea and a browse around.
The Patchwork Hookers met yesterday at Zehrs for the last day before our summer break. We shared news, drank tea and had a good chin wag, oh yes we did a bit of hooking too. We had a Mrs Shay drop in for a look at what we were all doing. It's always nice to see people that are interested, that's how many of us started this craft in the first place. We will be meeting next on June 26th at the house(42 Water St, Penetang) from 10 am till 3 pm for our next hook in- all are welcome. Weather permitting we may walk down to the waterfront to hook . We were also discussing going out on the Georgian Queen for an afternoon of hooking, those interested let me know and I will add your name, we just have to pick a date.
I will add to the blog regularly so keep checking in for news. Take care and hope to see you all soon. Happy Hooking, Knitting, Painting or what ever you enjoy, Karen

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2007-05-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

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