Alexandra Palace, bands, teaching, shopping and me
Hello,
How are you all? Have you got your woollies out yet, now that the weather is turning cooler?
I love the autumn, not only does it mean that this closet redhead does not have to go into hiding everytime the sun comes out to play, but it’s what I like to call ‘knitting season’. The highlight of my knitting calendar ever since I learnt to knit has been the annual pilgrimage to Alexandra Palace, London, home to the Knitting & Stitching Show.
Alexandra Palace holds many fond memories for me, from the first time I visited and realised that there are lots of people just like me who are addicted to yarn! There I learned that Ladies are not always ‘lady like’ when doing battle over yarn, and that shopping trolleys and elbows are the weapons of choice to secure that much coveted skein.
I have attended Ally Pally as a vendor during the time I owned Knit ‘n’ Caboodle. It was a wonderful experience getting to meet some many lovely customers. I have nothing but admiration for any vendor at Ally Pally, it can be gruelling. Long days, usually dreadful travel times, set up and break down are incredibly hard work, thank you for continuing to be part of this event every year.
During the past couple of years I have been visiting Ally Pally to see bands. It is by far my favourite music venue, the acoustics are second to none, the atmosphere is amazing. It is not a particularly big venue which makes for a great experience wherever you happen to be standing.
The Vaccines with their support act for that night the awesome Band of Skulls
The Black Keys, one of the most atmospheric gigs I have ever been to, belting blues tunes and simple lighting…….. bliss!
This year I visited Ally Pally on two consequtive days. ‘Why?’ I hear you ask……. teaching.
You possibly saw my blog posts announcing my classes. I taught four classes over the two days in the Prima Make & Take Theatre. I had some wonderful students, many of whom have been in touch to show me there completed projects. Well done ladies, I am really looking forward to seeing what you make next with your new found skills.
I really enjoy teaching, it gives me the opportunity to meet knitters and crocheters from all walks of life and help cultivate their passion for the craft. Over the next few weeks I will be announcing some new workshops in the Essex area.
If there is a particular technique you would like to learn, or a venue you would like to see me offering lessons, please let me know. I am relatively new to the area and your help would be very much appreciated in finding great places to teach knitting and crochet. Cute cafes, cosy rooms, I am all ears!