The quality of hand knit garments at VK Live was inspirational – it’s just one of the many reasons why these events are so valuable to knitters of all levels. We come away with a head full of ideas – energized to move on-ward and up-ward.

Bijou Basin Ranch displayed their “Valle di Susa Cabled Wrap“ by Marly Bird at their spacious corner booth. Beautiful shape to the garment – also fabulous yarn and stitch choices.  Wish I had one right now.

Windy Valley Muskox showcased three drop-dead gorgeous garments that really caught my eye. This cabled cowl-neck top makes beautiful use of the drape and softness of their yarn, with just the right garment shape and cable choices.

Their all-over cabled wrap has a universal appeal – something any one of us would love to knit and love to wear.

While the very specific person who could pull off wearing this dress would be a stunner – certainly all of us marvel at the design, styling, stitch choice and fit. Windy Valley doesn’t credit the design work on their web-site, but I would love to know who has such a keen eye and creative talent.

Lanaknits Hemp for Knitting was another booth with lovely garments – where I started to notice a trend – knitted dresses! The fabric their yarn makes had a wonderfully satisfying “hand” to it and the color saturation was deep and rich.

At the Woolmark booth I saw my 3rd knitted dress.  Again, a stunning knitted accomplishment.

And then… the tour de force, the piéce de resistance, and any other French superlative you care to add – these magnificent gowns from Julia Ramsey. It would have been great fun to see them modeled!

The booth at Habu Textiles is always jam-packed at any show I’ve been to. Their innovative yarns and the designs using them appeal to a broad range of knitters – and for good reason.

The owner bought this Isaac Mizrahi coat over 20 years ago! It still looks beautiful, is in great shape, fit her perfectly and attracted many admirers. Hence the adage: “Buy once, buy good!”.