Knit-Out & Crochet events were started in 1998 by the Craft Yarn Council of America (CYCA) with the help of volunteers to bring knitting, crocheting and yarn crafts to the public's attention. CYCA is holding its second annual Knit & Crochet event at the Mall of America in Bloomington, MN, February 16 and 17th, 2008 (Presidents' Weekend), and it promises to be the largest gathering of knitters and crocheters ever.
People fly in from everywhere to attend this fun filled gathering. More than 50,000 attended last year's Great American Knit-Out and even more are expected this year.
Celebrity Corner
Debbie Macomber Macomber is a New York Times best-selling women's fiction author, known by knitters worldwide for “The Shop on Blossom Street,” “A Good Yarn” and her latest novel, “Back on Blossom Street.” She will at the Knit-Out to share her inspirational knitting stories, to talk about “Warm Up America!” and to even give a technique demo.
Vickie Howell Howell is an author and host of the DIY Network's Knitty Gritty series. She will be on hand to talk about her latest book, “Knit Aid: For Knitters on the Go” filled with lots of tips and tricks for hassle-free knitting.
International Finals: Fastest Knitter and Crocheter
The international finals, co-sponsored by CYCA and the UK Hand Knitting Association, will pit the fastest knitters and crocheters from the U.S. against those from the U.K., Canada, The Netherlands, and France. The competition is fierce but fun. Visitors who just want to see how fast they can go will also have a chance to test their skills.
FREE Beginner Knitting & Crochet Lessons
Expect technique demos, tips, tricks and project ideas, experts to answer the toughest project questions, fashion shows, (adult, kids, and even dogs), kids’ crafts areas, “Show & Share” (a place where knitters and crocheters model and talk about their favorite projects,) displays, giveaways, and door prizes.
In addition, there will be a working area for the “Warm Up America!" charity event. Bring a 7" by 9" crocheted or knitted section to join into an afghan.
Hotel & Travel Discounts
Hotel and travel discounts are available for attendees. Please visit Knit-Out Travel Discounts for details.
If the Mall of America isn’t nearby, there are many other cities hosting similar events. Or better yet, start one locally! To see where other Knit-Out & Crochets are taking place, simply do an online search for “Knit Out + ‘Local City’.”
More information on this year's Knit-Out & Crochet:
Craft Yarn Council of America, P.O. Box 9, Gastonia, NC 28053
Tel: 704-824-7838 or E-mail: info@craftyarncouncil.com
