NORTHWEST INDIANA - Day One: Valparaiso

Surprising Valparaiso...

Each “Reader Who Knits" (or in this case, Crochets) has the opportunity to give a shout out to their favorite local yarn store.  Last November when Anaida Morales cited Sheep’s Clothing in a city not too far from me, I filed it away for future use.  Now, I get the delight of introducing you to this nifty store in a town I confess I’ve driven past countless times and never stopped to visit.  My loss, I tell you, because “Valpo” has a surprising lot to offer!

Fluid Coffeebar

159 W Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-510-1000

projectfluid.com

DestiKNITTers know coffee is always Job One on a yarn adventure.  Forget the franchise java and make your first stop this engaging and funky family-run coffee bar.  Truly good brew here, folks, delivered with tons of character.  They serve Intellegentsia coffee—top notch beans, and the folks who served as my resource when I wrote The Perfect Blend—so you know quality is a priority.  Ask the good baristas behind the counter to tell you the story of this place, right down to the handmade furniture.  Don’t forget to include a visit to the chalkboard-walled washrooms, filled with “entertaining” messages from patrons.

On to the main event: the fiber:

Sheep’s Clothing Knitting Supply

60 West Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN  46383

219-462-1700

www.knitdoctor.com

Owner Paula Strietelmeier started with a small section of yarn in a friend’s quilt shop and never looked back.  Earning its own retail space in 2001 and growing to its present wonderful location in 2008, the store boasts three classroom spaces, perfect lighting, airy high ceilings, and warm textures like wood and brick.  The whole place just feels creative.

“I love good yarn and helping people come up with a project,” says Paula.  Her stock shifts slightly with the seasons and product innovations, and is displayed with a loosely organized style meant to encourage browsing.  

A friendly staff of many long-time employees stands ready to help you.  Paula makes great use of that loyal talent.  “Each of our employees has a specialty,” she says, “Including especially strong beginners classes like "First Time Sweaters.”  As Anaida will attest, crocheters will find a home here, too.  Just want to hang out?  Open knitting is on Wednesday mornings, Thursday evenings, and the first and third Saturdays.  Check out a chock-full monthly newsletter to see all that’s being offered.

The store is packed with enticing samples, and here are a few of my favorites:

Enter Sweater

Norah Gaughn’s versatile design takes on the characteristics of whatever lighter worsted weight yarn you use.  This is one pattern you’ll want to make multiple times!  Perfect for the layering Chicagoland’s tricky weather can demand.  Depending on size, you’ll need approximately 7 skeins.

Big and Cuddly Cable Cowl

And when those Lake Michigan winds blow, you’ll want to knit up this to keep you warm.  Any purchase of chainette yarn such as Classic  Elite’s Chalet, Chateau, or Palace earns you a copy of the exclusive shop pattern.  Vary the length to your taste, and stay warm and stylish this winter.

Yoked Cardigan Baby Sweater

What sweet little one wouldn’t look cuddly in this stylish sweater?  For that matter, what human?  Good thing Hanna Fettig of Knitbot lists this pattern in a variety of sizes so you can indulge everyone.  Go cheery and bright or neutral and elegant—any worsted weight yarn will do.  Make sure to grab a pair of artful buttons for the perfect finishing touch.

Knit A Long: Caterpillar to Butterfly Scarf

Our hands-on project from this store is all about the transformation!  Using two balls of Tahki Filatura Di Crosa Fancy Tempo or Minitempo, this store exclusive pattern works a post-stitching magic I can’t wait to watch.  Lots of “dropped stitch” scarves like this are worked widthwise, but this clever design is worked lengthwise.  I’m excited to see this inventive technique in action.

Yarn in hand, it’s time to indulge in the surprisingly great shopping this little town has to offer.

Ivy Boutique

64 Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-299-2442

shopivyboutique.com

Just yards away from Sheep’s Clothing! Little boutiques like this are my favorite place to shop—personalized service, and you never come away looking like everyone else.  If you like Free People clothes, this place is for you.  Accessories, home and bath finds, and gift items round out the inventive stock.

Bangles Clothing Gifts and Accessories

15 Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-462-8462

Duck around the corner from Sheep’s Clothing to this small store packed with charm.  I found a great pair of earrings, but Owner Paulette Domke also stocks unique handbags, apparel, and accessories.

Silcott’s City Gear Shoes

18 Washington St

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-462-7178

 Business websitesilcotts.com

Yelp photo

There’s always something nice about a quality independent shoe store that puts the mall and big box outlets to shame.  The variety of the stock is impressive!  Everyone talked about owner Brent’s fabulous customer service.  Any place with this many enthusiastic regulars deserves a look.

Seasons on the Square

1 Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-465-0165

seasonsonthesquare.com

Beautiful high quality clothes and Brighton bags make this a great shopping experience. If you’re looking for a statement jacket to let you stand out at work or elsewhere, chances are you’ll find it here.

Ready for lunch?  Head to:

Blackbird Cafe

114 Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-548-2811

blackbirdcafevalparaiso.com

Admittedly, this is as good a choice for breakfast as it is for lunch.  The quiche is outstanding, as is the soup and salad selections.  Casual enough for moms and tots but trendy enough to make you feel like you’re someplace special (the cupcakes, and pecan pie help with that, too). 

I’m especially fond of places where eating alone doesn’t feel weird—and I saw many lone diners (I brought a friend to help me “taste” all the goodies that weren’t on my very restrictive diet program).  Valparaiso University is nearby, and this spot has that artsy, casually elegant college-town feel.  Succumb to the “homemade oreos" if you must, but we have other dessert plans so save room!

Designer Desserts Cupcakes

56 Lincoln Way

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-465-0008

designerdessertsbakery.com

I have a thing for cupcake places.  They always have an inventive and whimsical vibe, a place where you don’t have to take life so seriously.  I love to see if someone has come up with a flavor I’ve never heard of before.  This place had large, moist cupcakes with delicious frosting.  Seasonal flavors that sounded intriguing included Watermelon Fizz and Eggnog, but our super-helpful server recommended the Big Texan (seriously chocolate) the Creme Brulee, and the Pink Champagne.  I counted 101 flavors on the menu! I’m coming back when I can have more than a forkful!

Lifestyles Unique Gifts

122 Lincolnway

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-464-9167

This is one of those “little bit of everything” gift stores that I especially love to frequent.  I found a clever Joseph Joseph counting water bottle to help me stay hydrated on my program, as well as some very lovely soaps (I’m a total soap snob, if you haven’t yet figured that out).  There was home decor, jewelry, garden and kitchen goodies, accessories, and even toys—truly a bit of everything.  The sales staff was exceptionally friendly, offering to gift wrap my purchases even though they were just for me.   Don’t miss the upstairs gallery, too.

Old World Market

76 S Washington St

Valparaiso, IN 46383

219-476-0700

oldworldmarketonline.com

I didn’t know quite what to think when Paula suggested we stop here.  Wine and cheese foodie shops aren’t usually my thing, but I adored this place even if my diet kept me off cheese while I was here.  Don’t you dare call this a deli—your grocery store can’t hope to compete with the intriguing collection of meats and cheeses in this oh-so-friendly market.  You can easily walk in here clueless about wine and come away with a purchase sure to make you look clever at next week’s dinner party.  A serious display of local brews rounds out the fare.  My friend and I packed ourselves a lovely little set of snacks for the drive home—you should, too!

I feel bad that I hadn’t given Valparaiso much thought beyond an 1-65 exit before my visit. I couldn’t have been more wrong.  My friend and I left thinking, “My hometown should feel like this—can we move here?”  Valpo has all the spiff of a elegant suburb with all the warmth of a small town.  Perfect!  Next time you drive by, don’t just drive by—stop and enjoy all this town has to offer.

Next up, we travel a little further west to Griffith to sample more Northwest Indiana hidden treasures.

SAN ANTONIO, TX--Day One

I’m happy every time a conference I attend gets booked into San Antonio—whether I’m escaping Chicago’s nasty winters or braving the dog days of a Texas summer.  No doubt, the city offers loads of touristy gems, but I also discovered a pair of great local yarn shops as well.  If you find yourself in the Alamo City, here’s where to launch your yarn adventures:

The Pearl

Bordered by Avenue B, Isleta, Grayson and Newell Streets

San Antonio TX

(210) 212-7200

atpearl.com

What once was the Pearl Brewery has now become an charming selection of restaurants, shops, residences, and outdoor space.  Even the old stable has become an event venue. Spend your morning wandering around the place, making sure you take in:

Bakery Lorraine

306 Pearl Pkwy

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 862-5582

bakerylorraine.com

Desert for breakfast is a DestiKNITions tradition, and the Snickers Tart or croissant paired with an excellent coffee and a few splendid French macarons was the perfect way to launch my day.  The Turtle Tart is just as yummy—and I won’t tell if you get both.

Properly inspired to culinary greatness, head to:

Melissa Guerra Latin Kitchen Market

303 Pearl Pkwy Ste 104

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 293-3983

melissaguerra.com

All manner of creative cookware and gift items await you, most with a distinctive ethnic flare.  For some unusual fun, ask to see the Big Chill retro refrigerator and fantasizing about out which of the fun selection of custom colors you’d order for your own kitchen.

The Twig Book Shop

306 Pearl Pkwy Ste 106

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 826-6411

thetwig.com

Be a loyal destiKNITter and patronize the cozy little book shop for a thoughtful selection of local authors, local interest books, children’s literature, and an impressive schedule of events.   “Yea Local!”—I heartily agree.

Hotel Emma

136 E Grayson

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 448-8300

thehotelemma.com

I love to walk around gorgeous hotels, and this one is not only stunning, it’s an outstanding repurposing of a “neo-industrialized” space.  The library made me drool (but it’s only open to guests, so I just pressed my nose against the glass).  The bar, with its tables tucked inside old brewery tanks, offers an inventive place to share a cocktail.  I probably could only afford to stay five minutes in a swanky place like this, but it sure is fun to visit.

When you’re hungry, head here: 

Boiler House Texas Grill and Wine Garden

312 Pearl Pkwy

Bldg. 3

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 354-4644

boilerhousesa.com

Another gorgeously re-purposed building!  They’re known for great burgers, but I was in the mood for something different, so my friendly server talked me into the Hudspeth Ranch Lamb & Wild Boar Bolognese.  Really, how could I turn down a chance like that?  (No “knitter eating lamb” jabs, please).  It was delicious—a perfect taste combination for the unusual meats.  

Chef Jeff White also sent over his signature house chicharones & hot sauce when I mentioned I’d never had such a thing.  Yummy, but WAY too spicy for my weak northern tastebuds.  A great place for lunch or dinner, or a stand-out Sunday brunch.

Save room for desert, because we’re off to:

Lick Honest Ice Creams

312 Pearl Pkwy

Ste 2101

San Antonio, TX 78215

(210) 314-8166

ilikelick.com

Artisan ice creams are always a fun place for adventure, and this shop is the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind treat.  My sources sent me in for the  “goat cheese and candied nut” flavor, but I confess it wasn’t really my thing.  The server let me taste a bunch of suggestions until we hit on “grapefruit with champagne marshmallows”—fabulous!  An inventive combination of sweet and tang.  The menu of available flavors rotates constantly, so who knows what new favorite you’ll discover?

Ready for yarn?  Make the drive to:

Unraveled - The Chic Yarn Boutique

815 E Rector Suite 104

San Antonio, TX 78216

(210) 951-4891

unraveledsa.com

Husband-and-wife owner Kellie Lewis and Rob Thompson—both knitters—let their passion for the craft launch this newest addition to the Texas yarn shop scene.  

“We only carry fibers we’re 100% passionate about,” says Kellie.  Rob’s big on alpaca, Kellie’s a fan of cottons, so you can imagine that their selection of both (as well as linen, silk, and other warm-weather fibers) is outstanding.  Their fun, inventive style comes through all over the store and extends to the friendly, go-the-extra-mile staff as well.  

The store offers a strong selection of stock displayed by weight, and as Rob and Kellie love gift-giving projects, there are tons of great samples all over the store to inspire your generosity (or self-indulgence).

Open form classes—where you can come with any project and any skill level—are kept to a nice, intimate size.  Open knitting night happens each Thursday from 6-8.  Unraveled offers a few technique classes as well, and has joined the growing number of stores offering tatting instruction.  It’s gratifying to see this once-dying art form enjoying such a resurgence.

The shop is just the right size to be both comfy and still provide a robust selection.  With a warm atmosphere and friendly staff—as well as friendly customers—you’re sure to make new yarn buddies on your visit.

Here are a few projects I wouldn't mind casting on:

Alma Lou Shawl

All you need is one ball of self-striping yarn such as Noro Taiyo Sock or Manos De Uruguay sock to whip up this colorful wrap.  Not too lacy, not too basic, the interplay of garter and eyelet lets the yarn do most of the talking here.  The picot border adds a touch of delicacy.  A great choice for your first shawl.

Summer Escape Wrap

Crave something with a contemporary, dramatic touch that still won’t tax your summer brain cells?  Stitch up this color-blocked shawl with three balls of Berroco Modern Cotton in the colors of your choice.  If you’re like me, you’ll need some guidance for color combos, but the staff will surely lend a hand.  Perfect to keep any blasting AC from ruining your evening.

Bob’s Extra Large Stockings

Talk about unique!  Who wouldn't enjoy stuffing a stocking this size?  The photo doesn’t do justice to the fact that they’re several feet long (no pun intended)!  Felting chunky weight yarn sounds like a hefty task, but the results are clearly worth it.  You’ll need 4 balls of Borroco Peruvia Quick or 4-5 Balls of Debbie Bliss Roma and some king-size needles if you take on Bob's super-sized design.

Linen Stitch Bag

True to Unraveled’s gift-knitting specialty, our knit-along from this shop is a bag designed by Rob.  Three skeins of chunky yarn—in this case Araucania Huasco Chunky merino hand dyed—combine to make this colorful drawstring carry-all.  I’m looking forward to a quick, clever, and useful project.

When you’re done for the day, I recommend for dinner:

Beto’s Alt-Mex

8142 Broadway

San Antonio, TX 78209

(210) 930-9393

betosaltmex.com

Featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this place offers “Alt-Mex,” a self-proclaimed fusion of Mexican street food and Latin American Soul Food.  

Guy favors the Chalupa Cabra, but I went for the duo of a grilled fish and grilled veggie taco and didn’t regret it. The real star of the evening was the amazing sweet empanadas in a variety of mouthwatering flavors.

All in all, a great day in San Antonio.  Next post I’ll give you a shorter day visiting another SA store—so you’ll still have time to get in all your sightseeing.

NEAR WEST CHICAGO: FOREST PARK, ILLINOIS

The Nifty Nearby...

My favorite task at DestiKNITions is to uncover those hidden gems right under our noses.  Those places that no tourist brochure would list but are awesome in their own right.  I feel lucky to have discovered several of those in my career as an adventuresome knitter, and today is no exception:  Welcome to the Madison Street neighborhood of Forest Park, Illinois.

Madison Street in Forest Park is the quintessential midwest Main Street, but with a decidedly cultured urban vibe. It’s a 15-minute trip from my home and I’m embarrassed to say I’ve only driven through it before now.  My loss, believe me.

But not yours!  Start your day with breakfast at:

Madison Park Kitchen

7525 West Madison Street

Forest Park, IL 60130

708-689-8607

www.mp-kitchen.com

I love that they are family owned, and “presenting a carefree feasting experience.”  My sources point me toward the omelets here, and there are some unique offerings as well as the “build your own” options.  There are other fabulous looking choices other than the egg-based variety, too.  Who could resist “Jelly doughnut pancakes” with jelly inside and powdered sugar on top?  Or bacon and pecan waffles?  Hey, this could be the most important meal of your day.

Step down the street to our fiber fix:

Knit Nirvana

7453 West Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-771-5232

www.knitnirvana.com

This cozy, inventive shop is the new kid on the fiber block with a slightly exotic vibe.  Owner Sue Jaffee had worked for five years in a now-closed local shop before striking out on her own.  “It was such a pleasure,” she recalls, “that I brought many of those friends into this new store.”  

Sue recognizes knitting as much more than a craft. “It’s a calming technique, it’s art, it’s a community builder.”  Her passion for fiber shows in a welcoming, encouraging, friendly shop organized by yarn weight and filled with nooks, corners, open drawers and cubbies that invite exploration.  There’s even a spinning club.

Katherine’s washcloth classes sound like a fun tour of knitting techniques, as well as the “Beyond Basics” class designed to lure you past your first scarf.  The shop had what I’ve come to recognize as the hallmark of a friendly establishment—the table where everyone is sitting around knitting, talking, and laughing. Customers stop in for a respite between work or errands, soaking up the warm personable atmosphere for 30-minute breaks or long hours of enjoyment.

Loads of samples inspire any knitter to try something new, and here are some of my favorites:

Metalouse Shawl

Stephen West’s shawls are all the rage for their striking, contemporary designs and stunning use of color combinations.  Featured in Knitty and done up with 2 skeins of Noro’s oh-so-soft (really!) Shiraito and 1 skein of a separate contrasting color, this project is a fetching piece.  Personally, I’m delighted to finally have a Noro fiber that feels good against my fingers.  I’m eager to start this as my Knit-Along from Knit Nirvana.

His Golden Lair Shawl

This lace masterpiece makes great use of the amazing sheen in Debbie Bliss Luxury Silk.  Who wouldn’t feel luxurious with this draped across their shoulders?  The dragon-y wings might make for perfect Game of Thrones knitting, don’t you think?

Hitofude Cardigan

Ravelry photo

Looking for a challenge?  This delicate, swingy jacket should earn you compliments and respect.  You’ll want to take advantage of shop advice for this one, Sue advises.  Done up in Madelinetosh Marino Light, this garment has all the makings of a treasured heirloom.

Monkey Hat

If you're seeking something with a bit more whimsy, this topper could make any little person in your life smile.  It’s an excellent project to learn fair isle, so you get a new skill while some child gets a great hat.  Pick 3-5 shades of Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino and you’re all set.

Super Bulky Brioche Cowl

Pick out your one skein of Tosh ASAP, and you get this pattern free.  A great choice for a fast gift and just the right touch for fall.

Once you’ve scored your fiber finds, spend the afternoon wandering down Madison Street to explore the great variety of shops and eateries.  At Christmas, many of the stores create live holiday windows—how fun is that?  Me, I started at:

Camille et Famille

7418 Madison Street

Forest Park 60130

708-771-1111

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Camille-Et-Famille/256699311021077

Earlier this month at a LevelUp seminar, we were asked about something in our life we’d like to change.  I put down that I’m never really happy wielding coupons to shop at mall stores, but I never seem to be able to successfully navigate those artsy boutiques I like so much.  So for this trip, I tried an experiment.  I looked at how much I spend for clothes annually and divided it into four seasonal budgets.  Then, without calling ahead or anything, I walked into Camille et Famille and asked owner Rosemary Gange to guide me to what she thought would fit and look best.  “I wish everyone would do this,” Rosemary said as we spent about an hour pulling clothes and finalizing selections.  “People think we’ll oversell you if you ask our advice, but  why would we do that?  We want you happy so you’ll come back.”  I know I will.  I came away with some fabulously versatile (and comfortable!) Tribal pants, a basic but artsy shirt, and a splashy piece for fun. All soundly within the budget I gave her.  It was a great experience.

A great experience calls for a great lunch.  There are several choices, but being the lover of mac n’ cheese that I am, I took Sue’s advice and headed to:

Scratch

7445 Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-689-8427

scratchfp.com

It looks a bit “bar-ish,” but it really has a friendly lounge atmosphere.  The lamb burger and Greek fries sounded interesting, but I was happy I stuck with my choice for the Macaroni N Cheese with Pulled Pork on top.  Delicious!  The spices in the pork and the use of truffle oil give this dish a bit of bite, but I didn’t mind.  For heaven sake, order the small—the large is enormous and I couldn’t even finish the small plate I ordered.

After lunch, walk off those calories with some more great shopping.  I especially liked:

Madison Street Clothing

7500 Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-448-2190

www.madisonstreetshoes.com

Good sales, incredible shoes, nifty handbags, what’s not to love?

Deedeee & Edee

7415 West Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-209-1448

Creative accessories, unusual items, and you can get a custom designed jacket here.

Jayne

7423 Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-366-6300

jayneboutique.com

A slightly younger vibe but still very unique and inspired.

Yearbook

7316 West Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-366-1920

http://yearbookstudios.com

It’s not an antique store, but then again it is.  It’s current, but with a decidedly retro vibe.  It pretty much defies description but invites exploration.  It’s a nostalgia shop that’s both retail space and design studio.

Todd & Holland Tea Merchants

7311 West Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

800-747-8327

www.todd-holland.com

This shop was as much tea education as retail experience.  Sure, I loved the hand-knit tea cozies, but I also loved the wonderful stories the owner told me as I asked about the hundreds of teas on his shelves.  There are always intriguing blends for tasting, too.  From the basic blends to exotic and expensive estate teas, you find a whole adventure in your cup here.

To finish your day, I recommend a stop at:

The Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor

7347 Madison Street

Forest Park, IL  60130

708-252-3269

browncowicecream.com

This family-run place is how ice cream is supposed to be.  A charming old building filled with happy kids, indulging adults and some spectacular sweets.  I had the chocolate peanut butter and it was splendid.  Their party packages sound fun—I’d want the “come in your jammies for waffle sundays” event any day!

There you have it—a nearby and nifty adventure just minutes from your door (if you live near me, that is).  When you get set to come, let me know—I just might meet you there.

Next up, I tackle the clever Leftie Shawl from Knot Just Knits.