Muskoka Cruise with Debbie Bliss

Friday September 9, 2011
Debbie Bliss Dinner Cruise
Gravenhurst, Muskoka

This past weekend I went on yet another knitting adventure. I joined the well-known knitwear designer, Debbie Bliss, on a dinner cruise in Ontario's beautiful Muskoka region. It was good to see Debbie again and to meet and chat with her daughter, Nell. Thirty-five Debbie Bliss fans each received a gift bag with a book of Debbie's latest patterns.

Debbie signs my book!

I had so much fun and can't remember the last time I was that excited. Debbie is really easy to talk to and so approachable. If you are a fan I highly recommend taking advantage of an opportunity like this.

The second day I attended a lecture by D.B. She discussed a little bit about her background, her design process, and her current designs. We had a chance to play with her samples, try them on and even model them for one another. Of course, shopping was part of the day.

Before heading home we made sure to stop in at an awesome fibre arts shop and mill in Gravenhurst, Gateway Fibreworks.

Shop and Mill

A selection of beads and findings, hand dyed wool for spinning,
natural alpaca rovings, felting fibres, yarn , fabric and art kits are available
to satisfy your  fibre, sewing and bead crafting needs.

The entrance to the retail store. Beautiful knit shawl in natural
  alpaca and printed with leaf motif. 

A cozy nook to relax and work on projects within the shop.

The yarn wall. Gateway has their own yarn that is spun in house.

Alpaca is being pre-drafted in preparation for spinning.

A single ply wound on a bobbin sits ready in the machine.
Tours of the mill are possible but you must call to request.

 What's your favorite yarn shop? Leave the name and link in the comments section below so that I can enjoy a virtual tour of your favorites!

Next week I will be sharing another Ontario knitting adventure...so check back!