photo: Lise Beauchesne

I love winter and snow.

I can't wait for spring to come.

Both of these statements are true. As much as I'm going to hate shedding my handknit layers, I'm going to love it.

Yes, my husband finds that I am a human contradiction, too.

But I think you know what I mean. The sacrifice of the winter knitwear to the cupboard until fall is a little melancholy, but then you see the blue sky, feel the sun on your skin and a warm breeze and everything is okay.

If you look closely at my problem, it seems it's all about one thing: I have almost no transitional knitwear. No lightweight handknit cardigans. No [okay, one] handknit vests for layering. Hmm. Maybe I should get browsing in that magazine of mine and see what needs to be on my needles next!

No matter what the state of your closet, we've got a little something in almost every category, and all of it is designed to help you get from the cold to the warm without having to forego the handknits.

Problem solved.

We've done some load testing and experimentation since our winter issue went live [the first on our brand-new server] and once again, extremities remain crossed for this launch. If you were unable to get to us the moment we went live this time, know that we'll continue to tweak our server until it behaves the way we want it to.

People have been writing me for quite a while, asking if they could send a financial contribution directly to Knitty as well, so I've put a Tip Jar on the counter. Does it feel strange to do this? Um, yeah. But I also know what it's like to be on the other side -- wanting to show your appreciation for something you love in a tangible way. If you'd like to support Knitty with a donation, here's what to do:

1. To use a Paypal account or a credit card, click on the Send some love to Knitty! button above. You'll be able to fill in the amount you wish to send and then complete the transaction.

2. To send a check/cheque, payable to Knitty Magazine, here's our address:

Knitty Magazine
2255b Queen Street East #527
Toronto ON M4E 1G3

Because Knitty is not a charitable organization, your donation is not tax deductible. Our donors names and e-mail addresses are kept strictly confidential, but the Knitty editorial staff will know you've donated and we all thank you for your support!

Keep in touch!

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To find out what's up with Knitty on an average day, or on a big news day even, click here to add the Knitty blog to your RSS reader. If you use Twitter, you'll find Knitty's Twitter page here.

Amy R Singer
[editor, Knitty]

	photo: Amy R Singer Jillian loves her Schacht Matchless

Here comes spring!

Even if you still have snow on the ground like I do, something in the air has shifted. I’m getting out of the house more, blinking like a mole at all of the people and bright shiny colors. It’s time for the new and the big spring clear out.

I started a new little spinning group in my neighborhood, once a week, for as long as it lasts. Everyone is hit by the economy in the US, one way or another, and between that and the winter, it’s easy to get down. Our group is spending what we have -- time -- and sharing what we know. We’re trading fiber, splitting fiber buys and planning spinning and knitting projects together. We help each other figure ways to manage the once in a longtime need, or trip.

I traded a wheel with someone; another couple of us have dream wheels on layaway. But mostly we’re out and we’re together, laughing over the hum of our wheels and the clicks of our needles. It’s good. It’s spring.

In response to feedback from new and newish spinners for more basic spinning information, we’ve started a new column. Spinning Glossary, in the amazing hands and brain of Lee Juvan. Lee takes a spinning term or topic and gives a brief overview, great information for newer spinners or spinners who want a reminder. Lee's first topic is Ratios.

Also Amy learns about spinning coffee filters, really.

If you have an idea for a project or article for Knittyspin write me . If you have fiber, spindles, books, or other spinny products or tools that you'd like us to review, write me for submission information. I love to talk about it all.

Have you seen the Knittyspin shwag? Check out the new Knittyspin gear. Show your spinning pride and your love for Knittyspin!

Jillian Moreno
[editor, Knittyspin]