The First Hint of Sweater Weather

Every once in a while, a cool breeze comes through and carries with it the first little hint of fall. It may be more wishful thinking than anything right now, but autumn really is just around the corner. Before long, the leaves will begin changing colors, the mornings will feel a little crisper, and we will start reaching for our favorite sweaters again.

I have already given in and started drinking pumpkin chai lattes, so I suppose I am officially ready!

All around us, the familiar signs of the changing season are beginning to appear. The Minnesota State Fair is almost here, back-to-school shopping is being wrapped up, and soon the kids will be heading back to the classroom. High school football and other fall sports are already starting practices. Summer may not be over quite yet, but it certainly feels as though fall is beginning to tap us on the shoulder.

My Knitting Is Changing with the Season

The change in the air always changes the way I think about my knitting. During the warmer months, I tend to reach for lighter yarns and smaller projects that are easy to take along. But as soon as I feel that first cool breeze, my thoughts turn to sweaters, hats, mittens, cowls, and all the other wonderfully cozy things we love to make.

I have also started planning my gift knitting. I know it may seem early, but handmade gifts always take longer than we think they will! Starting now gives us time to enjoy the process instead of rushing through those final rows as the holidays get closer.

If you are beginning to make your own gift-knitting list, this is a good time to think about the people you would like to make something for and what they would truly enjoy wearing or using. A hat, cowl, pair of mittens, socks, or even a simple shawl can make a thoughtful gift without becoming an overwhelming project.

Of course, you can also make something cozy for yourself. That absolutely counts!

Fall Retreat Plans Are Coming Together

Another sure sign that fall is getting closer is that I am putting the final touches on the information for our Serenity Now Fall Fiber Retreat.

The retreat will be held October 29 through November 1 at Camp Knutson, and I am getting more excited as the details come together. I am looking forward to several days filled with yarn, classes, laughter, good food, and time spent with other fiber people.

There is something special about gathering together in the fall. The cooler weather makes it feel even better to settle in with a project, visit with friends, learn something new, and simply enjoy being surrounded by people who understand why we can never have too much yarn.

Hygge Season Is Almost Here

Fall is often called hygge season. Hygge is the feeling of warmth, comfort, and contentment we create through simple things—a warm drink, a soft blanket, a favorite chair, time with friends, and a peaceful evening at home.

For fiber people, I think we have another name for it: sweater weather.

It is the season when we can finally wear the things we have spent so much time creating. It is when a basket of yarn beside the chair feels especially inviting and when a few quiet rows at the end of the day can make everything feel a little calmer.

We may still have some warm summer days ahead of us, but I can feel the season beginning to change. With every cool breeze, I find myself dreaming a little more about colorful leaves, warm drinks, cozy yarn, handmade gifts, and all the projects I would like to cast on this fall.

Have you felt that first hint of sweater weather yet? Are you planning a sweater, getting started on your gift knitting, or choosing a cozy new project for fall?