French Press Knits: Bare Naked

Got your attention, huh?

Thought so.

Last week my dear knitting friend Erica contacted me about reviewing Anne Hanson 's yarn club, Bare Naked Knitspot. It's not often you get asked to be a part of a knitting legend's blog tour, so of course I jumped at the chance to share this opportunity with my readers.

Let's start with the basics. Some of you may be unfamiliar with a yarn club. Basically, it's like having Christmas once a month. But, in a sense, it's better than Christmas, because the gift you are receiving is from another knitter, who has chosen the perfect marriage of yarn and pattern. All you need to do is cast on.

And more specifically, Bare Naked Knitspot features yarn in it's natural animal and/or plant state, accompanied with an exclusive Knitspot pattern (designed specifically for that yarn as part of the club).

2012 was the inaugural year for Bare Naked Knitspot and before it was even over knitters were demanding more. The response led Anne to the conclusion that knitters do appreciate natural, raw yarn and all it has to offer. Although I know nothing of what the 2013 club has in store, taking a look at the club from last year is a must.

Anne featured a range of patterns and fiber- from classic basics...

...to timeless heirlooms...

She even managed to design color work from all natural yarns (and we all know I'm a sucker for color work anything!):

Last year held offerings of one-of-a-kind yarns and patterns to appeal to a variety of knitters, and I know this year's club will not disappoint.

Enough chatter- here's what you really need to know:

the club is a six month membership of fibers in their natural, undyed state where members learn about and appreciate the unique characteristics of each. yarns will be a surprise each month but will include a range of animal and/or vegetable fibers (sheep, goat, camelids, yak, silk, and cotton are some possibilities) in shades from cream to khaki to gray to chocolate—”sheepy” yarns if you will. some will be soft, some will be lustrous, some will have stout, sturdy character that softens over time with long use (like vintage blue jeans). yarn weights will vary; projects will focus on accessories, scarves, and shawls (possibly including a sock or baby item) that feature lace and openwork stitch patterns. plus, a few goodies find their way into some of the monthly packages. knitting patterns, designer notes, and beautiful photography will continue to be delivered monthly in chapter format, each one spotlighting the producer of the month with a lesson about the type of yarn and fiber included, along with the project pattern. the full set plus cover file may be compiled into a full book at the end.

Sign up's are open now and will continue until the club sells out. Reserve our spot now- shipments will start going out in February.