More Great Sew Red Reviews!

Hi, Everybody!

We've had so many great reviews of Sew Red, I wanted to continue to share them with you.  We're thrilled that so many people have loved the book and patterns, and it's great to see the message of heart disease prevention through crafting making its way around the craft blogs.  Here are a couple more glowing reviews from some of our favorite sewing bloggers!

The first is from Rochelle of the blog Lucky Lucille, a vintage-inspired sewing blog.  Rochelle also knits!  She did a fantastic review of the book and even made one of the projects, the Asian Modern Pillow by Linda Lee.  She put her own spin on the pattern by choosing adorable fabrics in her favorite colors, red and light blue.  We love it!  And isn't her dog, Lucille, gorgeous?

We also had a wonderful review from Jen of Grainline Studios.  I love how she called it a "Book Report" - so cute!  Jen made the Spiral Scarf by Nancy Zieman.  She especially loved the unique construction method for the scarf.  Her project came out beautifully!  Love the colors and styling.

Thanks to Rochelle and Jen for their great reviews and lovely photos!  What have you made lately?  Send us an email at info@stitchred.com - we'd love to see your projects!

~Heather

Witness the Fitness!

The time for New Year's Resolutions may be past, but really, who gets started in January, anyway?  It's dark, cold, and dreary in most places (and that's certainly the case here in Reno, Nevada!) and it takes twice as much willpower to get moving under those conditions.  In May, however, the weather is perfect - sunny and warm outside, but not hot, with inviting breezes and blooming flowers all around...who wouldn't want to be doing something outdoors?  It's inspired us here at Jimmy Beans Wool to start what we hope will become a yearly tradition: our very own Fitness Challenge!

Now, we all know that most activities (especially ones that may require extra motivation) are best done with a partner, so that was our first step: we teamed up with workmates to make sure each of us had support, accountability, and continual motivation toward our goals.  We discussed what might be reasonable goals for a one-month period, and how best to track our progress.  Some of us wanted to be more active, others to improve our diets.  Along with our partners, we wrote our goals on a board so we can track our progress - and we're expecting big results!

Some of the biking gals...now, Jeanne, your bike doesn't exactly count as exercise...

For our first partner feature, let's check in with Bethany and Rachel.  Since they both love to cycle and don't live too far from work, they decided to make it a goal to bike to work two or three days every week.  So far, they've made good on their goal and we are all proud of them!  They keep each other motivated by checking in with each other every day, bringing each other healthy snacks and treats, and sending short messages or texts to encourage each other to get on those bikes!  Great job, gals - you're an inspiration to us all!

Happy Crafting...and Fitnessing!

~Heather

Don't Sleep Your Life Away...Just Your Stress!

We've been talking a lot about that ugly word - stress - and how to combat it.  I don't know about all of you, but I have always thought the winter holiday season was pretty stressful - traveling, eating poorly, remembering gifts for everyone, combined with our busiest season at work - until now, that is.  It almost seems like I'm busier and more stressed out right now than I was during the holidays!

Well, if you haven't started on your New Year's Resolutions yet, I have a new one to add to your list: reduce stress by getting more sleep!  A new survey by Huffington Post revealed that lack of sleep was the number-one cause of stress among survey participants, and getting more sleep - even a short nap - helped alleviate that stress.

But how much sleep do you really need?  Sleeping too much can cause almost as many problems as too little, and is a major sign of depression.  Check out this article from The National Sleep Foundation to help you gauge how much is beneficial for you - you might be surprised to find you should be aiming for more hours per night.  I know I was!  I've decided that from now on, I'm going to set an alarm for 9:00 pm to remind me to start getting ready for bed.  That might be a good trick for you to use as well!

What other stress-relieving tips do you have?

~Heather

Feeling Stressed at Work?

As President Ronald Reagan said "It's true, hard work never killed anybody, but why take the chance?" With many people working hard these days, it's becoming more common to see risks of heart disease popping up in stressed individuals. Not that it hasn't been a secret that increased stress levels can lead to high  blood pressure, but work stress may be contributing to a slightly higher heart attack risk.

Recent research published in the journal Lancet shows that job strain can increase the risk of heart attack. With national unemployment at 8.1, many people are facing the pressure to perform on the job. There's nothing wrong with a little healthy competition and hard work, but let's not send our tickers into a tizzy.

This study was done over a 20 year span of time (1986-2006) and brought in data from 200,000 patients. The research found that people with highly demanding jobs and little freedom to make decisions are 23 percent more likely to have a heart attack. We can rest-assured that the risk of suffering from a heart attack due to job stress is relatively low (3.4%) compared to smoking (36%) and not exercising (12%). However, it is important to relax at the days end. The good news is that the increased risk for heart disease due to stress isn't as high as we originally thought.

What we found to be really interesting is the "fight or flight" instinct that takes over when we're stressed. It doesn't have to be job related - we have so much going on in our lives and people to take care of, that we begin to take on stresses we never thought we'd carry. It's important to remember that our stress levels affect us in many areas of our lives, be aware and find something that eases any stresses - like knitting!

What do YOU do to calm your nerves?

Want to read more? Visit ABC to read the full article. 

Lantern Moon's Stitch Red Story

We love the folks at Lantern Moon, not just because of their lovely needles and notions, but because they have a commitment to the world community. So, it makes sense that they would be among the first to jump on board the Stitch Red campaign! Sharon from Lantern Moon had this to say about their participation:

Why did your company choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign?

Lantern Moon's Stitch Red products!

For one thing, when Laura Zander has an idea, Lantern Moon likes to get behind it… Always mindful and inspiring! Learning more about the statistics for women and heart disease was instrumental…and shocking!  We loved the idea that Stitch Red was getting information out there and we know that educating in creative ways is effective. Heart disease affects every one of us in some way.

What products did your company create for the Stitch Red campaign?

At the fabric Market!

We decided to do 3 items that were great sellers for us, so that we could make a more significant contribution. 

Our crocheted stitch markers in Red Hearts were an obvious fit. The other two were done on my last working trip. The Square Clip bag is a favorite for size and function, and when I saw the red and blue dot cotton print at the fabric market in Hanoi, it just seemed meant to be the lining--bright and hopeful! I’m happy that it worked out so well. Our little keychain clutch in wool felt, was sketched out after the needle and yarn ball version --just thinking about knitters and how much they love yarn! After all, we HEART yarn!

3. What's your heart healthy tip?

Just Breathe! Don’t worry about things that you cannot affect or change. Really, do it.

Fabric Problem Solving!

4. What gets your heart racing?

Everything about my daughter, Sally… she inspires me and keeps me on the path to goodness…organic farming, “grounding”--with your bare feet on the earth and having real gratitude every day.  

I get so excited when I am working on a project and there is collaboration with my artisans and they “get” an idea and are inspired to take it a step further…or solve the problem!  I think that makes me feel like I am making a difference. Charging up creativity in a young girl, who has never had the opportunity to engage that way is a thrill.
 
Lastly, but always true…meeting our customers at every level and making sure that they know that when they purchase a product, they are part of the story and part of making the difference! It really makes me proud to see how much women care about women everywhere in the world.

Telling the story at Tigard Knitting Guild

Thank you so much to Sharon and everyone at Lantern Moon for you support and for all that you do to make the world a better place!

The Village Knitter and Racing Hearts

The Stitch Red campaign could not be successful without the help of all our participating local yarn stores across the country. Some of our strongest supporters are Kathleen and Ann from The Village Knitter, an LYS in Babylon, New York. They've been offering free blood pressure screenings and meditation exercises at their educational Stitch Red events in addition to a range of fabulous Stitch Red products.

When asked why they got involved in the campaign, these wonderful ladies had this to say:

"Many of our customers have been affected by heart disease  in their lives. This is an important issue and your campaign was a great opportunity for our shop to give back to the community."

Recently Kathleen and Ann asked their customers to share what gets their hearts racing. Here are the answers they got:

"New sock yarn!" -Karin C.  
"When Stephen West is in the States." -Karen H.
"Getting new bras that fit perfectly and are actually sexy!" -LuLu
"Lacey Shawls" -Angela
"Making a decision. Anything purple, then thinking about every color combination, mulling it over and then buying the purple." -Erica K.
"Being the first customer to look in the box of newly delivered yarn." -Gail Z.
"Finding the right size needle, free and ready to go, when I want to cast on for a project!" -Katy K. 

Thanks for the input, ladies. :-)

We love when our hearts race (in the GOOD way). What gets your heart racing?

WEBS Connects on Heart Health

At its core, the Stitch Red campaign is rooted in the idea that we can make a bigger difference together than we can alone. Uniting individual knitters and crocheters, local yarn stores, manufacturers, independent designers, and big names in knitting and crochet, allows us to touch more people's lives and raise awareness in more communities than any one individual can alone. That's why we are proud to partner with companies like WEBS, who have made a name for themselves and now choose to use that for a good cause.

We asked Kathy at WEBS to post a guest blog for us, and here's what she had to say...

I ran into Laura at TNNA last June and she presented the concept of Stitch Red to me and asked if I would consider participating. I told her yes immediately! I believe its important that we support each other as much as possible within our industry. The fact that Stitch Red was built around increasing awareness of heart disease among women was just the icing on the cake.

For me, a healthy heart is tied to being a healthy person overall - both physically and emotionally. About 3 or 4 years ago I ended up in the ER thinking I was having a heart attack. My chest was heavy, my arm was tingling - I was freaking out. Everything was fine and ultimately my symptoms were brought on by stress and anxiety. Needless to say, this was a huge wake-up call for me. Its so easy to skip exercising and eat quick, non-healthy meals and get so wrapped up in everything that is on the "to-do" list we forget about taking care of ourselves. I think this is especially true for women. For me, learning to say "no" made a huge difference. I don't have to be on every committee, at every meeting, agreeing to every lunch date or play date with my kids for that matter.  Sometimes saying "no" is just enough to free up a wee bit of time to do something for myself. I've also found that as a family, we are calmer knowing we don't have to do everything that is asked of us.

Nothing gets my heart racing more than when my oldest son Jackson is in net with his hockey team! Being a goaltender has been his passion since he was about 7 years old, but being the mom of a goalie has been one of the hardest things I've ever done.  Although my heart is pounding during every game, at least I'm able to be there to watch him. It was so stressful for one goalie mom that should would sit in her car, outside of the rink, during the entire game. She couldn't bear to watch!

Thank you so much Kathy, and all the folks at WEBS!

Stitch Red Knit Night this Tuesday!

On the first Tuesday of February, March and April of this year, Jimmy Beans Wool has hosted a free Stitch Red Knit Night where experts in all kinds of fields have shared their knowledge on heart health. This coming Tuesday, May 1, 2012, we are excited to announce a new Stitch Red Knit Night! This month the focus will be on recipes that are good for your heart. The event will be held at 6pm at the Jimmy Beans Wool shop in Reno, Nevada (1312 Capital Blvd. Suite #103). If you happen to be in the Reno area this Tuesday, please feel free to stop by! Bring your knitting and a heart healthy recipe to share. Not sure what recipes qualify as heart healthy? Well, that's what this Knit Night is all about! Come on by and learn.

Not a Reno resident? Use the month of May to host your own Stitch Red Knit Night Recipe Exchange with YOUR knitting group! Send us your favorite recipe from the exchange along with pictures and anything you learned about heart healthy cooking. We would love to share your story.

Thanks for your support and keep knitting and crocheting red!

From our hearts to yours,

The Stitch Red Team

Be Sweet to Your Heart

Be Sweet has always been a company with heart. Their inspiring story shows that it's possible to be successful and still be true to your conscience. Now Be Sweet is taking that mission a step further. We talked to designer Tanis Gray about Be Sweet's participation in the Stitch Red campaign and asked for her thoughts on heart disease, the campaign and her own heart health.

What does the Stitch Red campaign mean to you?
 "It’s unfortunate that so many people have stories about heart disease, but not at all surprising since it is the #1 killer of both men and women. One of my grandmothers passed away due to congestive heart failure in her late 70s, as well as one of my grandfathers having issues with his heart near the end of his life. Like many knitters, my grandmother was very crafty and I am proud to continue on the tradition of making things by hand. I can’t help but wonder if she had had access to modern medicine and been more educated about keeping her heart healthy and strong she might still be here, knitting and crocheting next to me. I chose to get involved in Stitch Red to make their stories known in the hopes that proper education and awareness could save lives."

What's your favorite heart-healthy tip? "Even if you can only get 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine, at the end of the week that adds up. You’d also be surprised at how easy it is to walk to the post office or bike to the farmer’s market rather than drive. By making small changes like that, you’ll have more energy, be working out more and getting a stronger, healthier heart in no time. You can also set goals and reward yourself with some nice yarn when you meet them!"

What gets your heart racing?
"I love biking with my family. We strap my son into his bike seat and take turns with who carries him. We bike to the river, the farmer’s market, to lunch, past the monuments of Washington, DC and even the yarn shop! I also really enjoy doing Zumba on our Wii, and am happy I can do it in the privacy of our home because I look like a crazy person!"

As a part of the campaign, Be Sweet will be donating 5% of gross profits from their red Whipped Cream yarn and their Keystone Hat kit (both featured above). Additionally, Tanis has a lace infinity scarf pattern using the Whipped Cream yarn that will be featured in the Simply Sweet Look Book #2 coming to a yarn store near you very soon. About the pattern, Tanis had this to say:

"My grandmother and great grandmother were particularly talented in lacework. My scarf is a nod to them, with the joined ends creating an infinite loop of each generation handing down knitting and crocheting to the next. My great grandmother Jenny taught my grandmother Irene, who taught my mother Patricia, who in turn taught me."

Thanks to the fabulous ladies of Be Sweet for your good hearts. May they continue to stay healthy and happy for many years to come.

Denise Knits Pink and Red

Barbara of Denise Interchangeable Knitting & Crochet has been creating pink knitting kits for years and donating a portion of the proceeds from each kit to help fund breast cancer research. Now she has signed on to do the same thing for heart disease. We asked her about her Stitch Red products and a little about her heart healthy advice. Here's what she had to say:

Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign? Laura Zander convinced us do this! When Laura told me about this germ of a project, I started looking up the statistics on health. I was surprised to see how big an issue heart disease is in the US, for both women and men. It is one health problem that we can do something to prevent to a large degree. Some of the other causes of death on the CDC leader board are less affected by our behavior. Heart health has a lot to do with our choices. Not entirely, of course. I would love to see more of us make the kinds of choices that reduce the risk of heart disease. It seems do-able in a context when many other health risks are not so easily overcome. Working together across our industry is an appealing way to work toward toppling heart disease from its top spot in our culture.

What product have you created for the Stitch Red campaign? What was your inspiration behind it? Denise has made red cords for our interchangeable knitting needles and crochet hooks.  These are available in the three extra long lengths (30”, 40” and 52”) and in the set of extra cords we call a Companion Set. We had already been making pink cords and a few other products in pink to support breast cancer research. With that experience, it was easy and natural to add red cords to support heart health for everyone. The red cords are beautiful and vivid! Visually they remind me of licorice laces, but these are so much better for us.

Do you have a heart healthy tip or recipe to share?
We live in Virginia now, but have lived in other places. We tend to eat here the way we do when near the Mediterranean: vegetables and fruit, grains, fish, cheese, yogurt, olive oil, red wine. If we could have this on a terrace overlooking the sea, it would be even better! In the meantime I have been known to keep jars of cornichons and capers in my desk drawer to enliven lunch in tasty and healthy ways. Lots of taste oomph in each small package! Denise staff all like chocolate occasionally, strictly dark chocolate, though I am not sure we can justify that as a genuinely heart-healthy choice.

4. What gets your heart racing?
A truly healthy habit is to adopt a dog who wants to go for long walks often. You need to walk with the dog, and that is good for you both. If that dog is a rescue, so much the better. If that rescue dog has a black coat, you do even more good, for dogs and for yourself, since black dogs are more often overlooked and left at the shelter.

Thanks, Barbara! We appreciate your contributions, both the breast cancer research and to the Stitch Red campaign for heart health. We also appreciate your fabulous knitting and crochet supplies.

For more information on Denise products, which are 100% made in the U.S., you can visit their website here.

Barry Klein Sets Stitch Red Trends

Poppy yarn in Red Barron

Barry Klein of Trendsetter Yarns truly is a trend setter himself. We asked him to share a little bit about the Stitch Red product that his company will be contributing. This one is unique, not just in its style, but in that a portion of proceeds from ALL colors of this product will go to the cause. You can view other colorways of the Poppy yarn here.

Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign? 
I chose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign because of who our customers are. Most of our clients are woman and without clients we have no business. We must all work together to fight heart disease. I also come from a family that fights high blood pressure and obesity and stroke, all that can be fought with a healthy heart.

What product have you created for the Stitch Red campaign? What was your inspiration behind it?

Terry wearing a Poppy scarf

We selected a product called Poppy which is a scarf yarn that is a wide mesh that has wool tops attached to one edge. I created a jacket in Red using three of my favorite yarns and attached Poppy as the detail effect. I love that scarf yarns are still the most fashionable. I love that they are easy to knit, quick to knit and be crochet as well. What is better for your heart than to have something to hold onto that feels incredible and is easy to do……makes my heart happy!!

What's your favorite heart healthy tip?
A group of us have been doing Weight Watchers for the past year. It is important to learn a way to enjoy the foods you love but maintain the idea that quantity is something to watch. In addition, we have been doing 3 hours of Zumba in order to get our heart rates up and get into an aerobic state. Food is really important. It is my reward and so doing the exercise allows me to enjoy the foods I love.

What gets your heart racing?
What gets my heart racing is being with a group of people who love to knit and create and who love to be creative. Nothing is more satisfying than teaching people something new that they will share with their friends. Trendsetter is my company…in fact its my life. I love sharing the yarns that I create, the patterns I create and then have people come and show me what they’ve made in my yarns. Having people appreciate “my yarns/my kids” as much as I do really gets my heart racing.

Barry will also be featured as one of the designers in the upcoming Knit Red book. For a sneak peak at his pattern (and the 29 others in the book), a digital preview is available here.

Thanks Barry for your fabulous yarn, patterns, and commitment to the cause!

Yarn Pop's Lori Jordan Shares Her Stitch Red Story

Independent designer and travel-lover, Lori Jordan of Yarn Pop products (also known as Top Shelf Totes), has come out with a project pouch specifically for the Stitch Red campaign. We asked her about her involvement in the campaign and what she does to stay heart healthy.




Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign?
 
My husband's family has a history of heart disease and I had a good friend who was affected with a heart issue, as well. When I was presented with the opportunity to support this campaign, I joined immediately. Education and research are critical to making progress against this disease, and I’m happy to be part of a movement that supports both.

What was your inspiration behind your Stitch Red product?
 
The product we are offering is the Bold Red Fleur - Yarn Pop. Great for holding yarn, projects and notions, our entire Yarn Pop line is available in the Stitch Red print. I chose this look because the red combined with the pattern is bold, bright and has a feeling of movement.

Do you have a heart healthy tip to share?
 
Daily, 30 minute walks. It is good exercise, and also helps keep stress levels down.

What gets your heart racing?
Travel will always get my heart racing. I traveled a lot on my own before I met my husband and now we travel a lot together. It is always refreshing to get out of town and explore. Of course I always use it as a great opportunity to visit local yarn shops and love the time in transit for some focused knitting time!

Thanks for your contribution, Lori!

Do you have a heart healthy tip to share? We would love to hear from you! Post a comment, or send us an e-mail at info@stitchred.com. Tell us your tips and your heart stories, your heart-felt stories, or your Stitch Red felting stories. We may end up sharing them in out blog or newsletter!

Blue Sky Alpacas Goes Red!

We asked the folks at Blue Sky Alpacas why they're choosing to Stitch Red and what melts their hearts. Here's what they had to say: 

Blue Sky Alpacas chose to be involved with the Stitch Red campaign because when Laura at Jimmy Bean's Wool asked, we knew it was the right thing to do. Ten of eleven employees have been touched by heart disease here at Blue Sky. With this disease affecting so many near and dear, becoming a part of Stitch Red was a great way for the whole Blue Sky staff to become involved in awareness and prevention.

Blue Sky Alpacas had already designed the Techno yarn in Cha-Cha Red [featured above] when we were invited to participate in the Stitch Red campaign. We felt that Techno Cha-Cha Red was perfectly suited to Stitch Red because of its duality. Techno is new technology; the latest advancement in how it is possible to create yarn. Blue Sky thinks all knitters and crocheters deserve the latest and greatest. We certainly feel that all people deserve the best technology when it comes to taking action to fight heart disease. Blue Sky Alpacas Techno may be new technology, but it is also yarn; used to make garments for centuries. Knitting and crocheting can be a slow task that takes time and perseverance. Much like heart health, you have to be committed, you have to want to be healthy. It takes time, but the results show one step stitch at a time.

The Blue Sky Staff is taking a heart healthy step in the right direction. We try and go for a walk together everyday. That time sure flies by when you have good friends to chat yarn with! It's always easier to do something difficult when you aren't alone.

Here at Blue Sky our hearts melt for the newest member of the Blue Sky Family! Jones [the handsome alpaca shown here] joined the herd in late February and we just cannot get enough of him.

If you love the cardigan shown above, you'll be pleased to know that this Stitch Red pattern and the Stitch Red Techno yarn in Cha Cha Red it's shown in are available together in kit form here. Just find your size to purchase the pattern and all the yarn you need for this cardigan. And, of course, 5% of Blue Sky Alpaca's gross profits from sales of both the pattern AND the yarn will go to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health in support of The Heart Truth®.

Classic Elite Yarns with Heart Healthy Hats and Love of Dance

Betsy from Classic Elite Yarns signed up with the Stitch Red campaign early and her fabulous company has already come out with several lovely red yarns AND a free pattern (shown below) for our enjoyment. We recently asked her about her involvement in Stitch Red and how she gets her heart racing.

The Healthy Heart Hat

Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign? There is a long history of heart disease in my family, so along with a general bent towards doing the right thing, this cause is personal to me and my family. Many in my father’s generation succumbed to the disease at a very early age. My generation is doing much better, but we still watch for warning signs because of our genes.

What products have you created for the Stitch Red campaign? We are coming up with new things every day! Our designated yarns are Magnolia, a lustrous silk and wool blend, and Silky Alpaca Lace, our flagship laceweight silk blend. Look for kits featuring two of our most popular designs, the Lacy Scarf and the Empress Wrap in Silky Alpaca Lace and Magnolia respectively. 

We also have some free patterns coming up in our weekly Web-Letter; we kicked it off with a Valentine’s Day pattern from our very own Meg Myers, the Healthy Heart Hat in two colors of Magnolia. We have a few other projects lined up, but they’re top secret for now! You’ll have to sign up for the Web-Letter to find out. 

Betsy and her granddaughter

What gets your heart racing? I love to dance, but I’m married to someone who doesn’t share the passion. But now I have a 6-year old granddaughter who loves to dance – and she has become my dancin’ partner! We turn up the funky music (her favorite) and just do whatever we feel like. It’s a blast! Everyone should try dancing with a 6-year old – it’s a very exhilarating experience!! (She danced with enthusiasm as a 4- and 5-year old too; I’m hoping the dancing bug will last well into her adulthood.)

Thanks, Betsy! 

If you love Classic Elite Yarns, stay tuned for their NEW addition to the Stitch Red campaign, Alpaca Sox in a deep, rich red. We will be featuring this new product very soon!

Lindabelinda Talks Heart Health and Creative Design

This week we interviewed Dr. Linda Ruggiero, of Lindabelinda Ceramics. As an independent designer who has pledged to donate 100% of gross profits from the sale of her Stitch Red buttons, we wanted to know what her thoughts were on the Stitch Red campaign, heart health and her commitment to the cause. Check out her heart-warming answers below.

Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign?

"I am a huge advocate for promoting awareness through craft. I support several initiatives in this way, and when I learned about the Stitch Red Campaign, I was immediately on board. Having grown up with a father who suffered two heart attacks during my childhood, followed by triple bypass surgery and implantation of a pacemaker, I am well aware of the prevalence and dangers of heart disease. I am also a firm believer in preventative health care, and I try to demonstrate this in my own lifestyle with a daily yoga practice and a healthy diet. I also believe that preventative care is made possible through education, and I support Stitch Red for its commitment to that."

What was your inspiration behind your Stitch Red product? 

"As an avid knitter and ceramicist, I enjoy combining clay and fiber arts in different ways. One way is through the creation of handmade ceramic buttons, which can be functional findings for knitwear, as well as aesthetic, decorative accessories. When I learned of the Stitch Red Campaign, I decided to design a line of heart-shaped red buttons embossed with a feminine floral design. The buttons are also available in a simple round shape, with the same color scheme and design."

What's your heart healthy tip? 

"I believe it is most important to reduce stress in one's life as much as possible. I have learned through both personal experience and through my training as a neuroscientist that stress reduction is accomplished through positive emotions, and so I believe that everyone should do one thing a day for themselves. Life should be enjoyable - and so often we get caught up in routines and deadlines and neglect taking care of our own interests and happiness. Giving to one's self is important - it allows us to better give to others and makes us healthier individuals - both physically and emotionally."

What gets your heart racing?  

"I am most thrilled when I  am learning new skills or having novel experiences. I love to travel and to see how others implement crafts in their daily lives. I also love working with children - particularly in creative settings. Kids are so free and uninhibited - they come up with the most exciting ideas. And I adore the pride that children take in work they have made themselves. They are the best teachers."

Thank you Linda, for your generous (and beautiful) contributions to the campaign and for your insight. We're proud to have you on board.

If you would like more information on Linda, please visit her custom-design website here, or her Etsy page, here.

For those of you who live in and around Reno, don't forget to stop by Jimmy Beans Wool at 6:00 tonight for our monthly Stitch Red Knit Night, where University of Nevada, Reno Graduate Research Assistant, Heidi Lengdorfer will discuss her most recent research on local trends involving heart disease, and the most effective ways women can reduce their risk. Bring your knitting, a friend, and any questions you might have. This event is free and open to the public. We look forward to seeing you there!

-The Stitch Red Team

Local Yarn Store Crafting Healthy Hearts With Monthly Stitch Red Knit Night Educational Series

Presenter to Talk Trends & Provide Risk Reduction Tips for Heart Disease   

Reno, Nev. (March 21, 2012) – University of Nevada, Reno Graduate Research Assistant, Heidi Lengdorfer, is joining Jimmy Beans Wool, local retailer of yarn and fabric, to educate women about cardiovascular disease and how they can protect their heart health. The free Stitch Red Knit Night event will take place on Tuesday, April 3^rd at 6 pm and is part of an ongoing educational series focusing on heart health hosted monthly at Jimmy Beans Wool’s retail location at 1312 Capital Blvd. #103 in Southeast Reno.

Stitch Red Knit Night is part of a high-profile nationwide heart disease awareness campaign, Stitch Red, founded by Jimmy Beans Wool and supported by a majority of manufacturers and retailers in the Needlearts Industry. The campaign is driving efforts to draw attention to heart disease, help women understand the risk factors for the disease and encourage the adoption of healthier lifestyles so they can protect their heart health.

“Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States and the Needlearts industry is made up of 98% women, so we need to draw attention to this deadly illness and help make the fiber community and women everywhere aware of their risks and informed on how to lead healthier lives,” said Laura Zander, owner of Jimmy Beans Wool. 

Lengdorfer is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Public Health and is writing her thesis on the public health implications of heart disease for women in Nevada. She will discuss noteworthy heart disease and cardiovascular disease trends; showcase how Nevada and Washoe County stack up to the U.S. in heart disease trends; explain gender differences in cardiovascular disease; and draw attention to risk factors and provide tips on ways to reduce risk for heart disease.   

“As a knitter, a customer of Jimmy Beans Wool, as well as a public health graduate student, I was excited by the opportunity to speak about the threat of heart disease to other women who share my interests and bring awareness to my own community, said Lengdorfer. “I hope to encourage other women to protect their heart and vascular health for longer, happier lives."

Attendees of the Stitch Red Knit Night will be able to preview and purchase official Stitch Red products for which a percentage of gross profits will benefit the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) in support of The Heart Truth^®, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease, sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). For more information about the Stitch Red Knit Night and to reserve your spot, please call 775-827-9276 or email info@stitchred.com.

About Stitch Red

Stitch Red is supported by a majority of manufacturers and vendors in the Needlearts industry who are creating unique Stitch Red products for which a percentage of gross profits will benefit the FNIH in support of The Heart Truth^®, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease, sponsored by the NHLBI. Additionally, Jimmy Beans Wool has written a book, Knit Red, which features 30 celebrity designers sharing patterns and personal stories and will be released in June of 2012. Stitch Red Knit Nights are being hosted by Jimmy Beans Wool and other local yarn stores across the country. A percentage of gross profits from Knit Red and Stitch Red Knit Nights will also benefit FNIH in support of The Heart Truth^®. 

About Jimmy Beans Wool

Jimmy Beans Wool is a yarn and fabric retailer offering knitters, crocheters and sewers worldwide a comprehensive selection of the finest yarns and fabrics along with the latest fashion trends. As a market leader in its multi-billion dollar industry, Jimmy Beans Wool takes an innovative, unparalleled approach to marketing. It is the first-ever official yarn, knitting and crochet supplier to U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing and is responsible for the national industry-wide Stitch Red campaign against heart disease in women. The store has been awarded an excellent rating from StellaService for its outstanding customer service reputation and has been named three times to the Inc. 5000, Inc. Magazine's List of Fastest Growing Private Companies in the U.S. It has also been featured on CNN, NPR, Forbes and in the New York Times.

About The Heart Truth^® Campaign
The Heart Truth^® is a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease and is sponsored by the NHLBI, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Through the campaign, the NHLBI leads the nation in a landmark heart health awareness movement that is being embraced by millions who share the common goal of better heart health for all women.

The centerpiece of The Heart Truth is the Red Dress, which was introduced as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness in 2002 by the NHLBI. The Red Dress^® reminds women of the need to protect their heart health, and inspires them to take action.  To learn more, visit www.hearttruth.gov.

® The Heart Truth and The Red Dress are registered trademarks of HHS. Participation by Jimmy Beans Wool and Stitch Red partners does not imply endorsement by HHS/NIH/NHLBI.

Heart disease and hand knitting, not the usual combination

Plymouth Yarn Company was approached by Laura Zander about joining Jimmy Beans Wool and The Heart Truth Campaign,  in June 2011.  We were very interested in the project and the need to spread the word about the #1 killer of women in America, heart disease.  Knitters are very passionate people.  Knitters care, and share.  Knitting is about community and charity.  

Stitch Red is such an awesome way to spread the word about the disease, and offer knitters a way to get involved in the program.   

We have dedicated 2 new products to the campaign:

Encore Worsted, 75 Acrylic 25 Wool, and new color 475, to the project.  You can purchase the color here.  You can see the entire Encore Worsted colors selection here.  America’s Best Selling yarn for decades, this yarn is Machine Wash and Dry.  Encore Worsted is an easy care for knitters of all calibers.   It is a prefect yarn to knit for gifting projects.   Our design teams has developed a new pattern (2193), this will be available for purchase real soon.

One of the best of the best, Eros II was the top selling novelty yarns of all times.  You can create beautiful Scarves, Shawls, Tops, and even Jewelry.  We have developed this free pattern (F418) for your use.  Click here to Free Pattern.

We were unable to attend the The Heart Truth's Red Dress Collection Fashion Show, on February.  But you can see great images from the event here, courtesy of Jill Seiman, GLAMAMOM.com.  The fashion show was a huge success.  You can also see excerpt the fashion show on You Tube.

Plymouth Yarn Company was one of the first to join with Jimmy Beans Wool to help promote this important campaign.  We are pleased to be involved with this very high profile cause. 

Please join us and help spread the word about Heart Disease.

Local Doctor and Yarn Store Join Forces to Craft Healthy Hearts

Unique Knitting Event to Educate Women About Their Risks for Heart Disease  

Reno, Nev. (February 28, 2012) – Doctor Grant Anderson of Vascular Health in Reno and Jimmy Beans Wool, local retailer of yarn and fabric with a strong online presence, are coming together to educate women about their risks for heart disease and what steps they can take to live a longer and happier life with Stitch Red Knit Night. The free event will take place on Tuesday, March 6^th at 6 pm and is part of an ongoing educational series focusing on heart health hosted monthly at Jimmy Beans Wool’s retail location at 1312 Capital Blvd. #103 in Southeast Reno.

Stitch Red Knit Night is part of a high-profile nationwide heart disease awareness campaign, Stitch Red, founded by Jimmy Beans Wool and supported by a majority of manufacturers and retailers in the Needlearts Industry. The campaign is driving efforts to draw attention to heart disease, help women understand the risk factors for the disease and encourage the adoption of healthier lifestyles so they can protect their heart health.

“Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States and the Needlearts industry is made up of 98% women, so we need to draw attention to this deadly illness and help make the fiber community and women everywhere aware of their risks and informed on how to lead healthier lives,” said Laura Zander, owner of Jimmy Beans Wool.

Dr. Anderson’s mission is to prevent heart attack and stroke for his patients by early diagnosis where risk isn’t apparent. He combines his knowledge of vascular health with cutting edge equipment to assess a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease and diagnose Atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries and can lead to heart attack and stroke. He does this by performing tests such as the Carotid IMT, Endopat, Central Aortic Pressure Test and MCG amongst others. Depending on results from these tests, Dr. Anderson develops a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs.  

“Women present differently for heart disease than men,” said Dr. Anderson. “It is my mission to identify women who are in jeopardy of the disease by using these risk assessment tools and help them become aware of their heart health and understand what steps they can take to prevent a heart attack or stroke.”  

Attendees of the Stitch Red Knit Night will be able to preview and purchase official Stitch Red products for which a percentage of gross profits will benefit the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) in support of The Heart Truth^®, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease, sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). For more information about the Stitch Red Knit Night and to reserve your spot, please call 775-827-9276 or email info@stitchred.com.

About Stitch Red

Stitch Red is supported by a majority of manufacturers and vendors in the Needlearts industry who are creating unique Stitch Red products for which a percentage of gross profits will benefit the FNIH in support of The Heart Truth^®, a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease, sponsored by the NHLBI. Additionally, Jimmy Beans Wool has written a book, Knit Red, which features 30 celebrity designers sharing patterns and personal stories and will be released in June of 2012. Stitch Red Knit Nights are being hosted by Jimmy Beans Wool and other local yarn stores across the country. A percentage of gross profits from Knit Red and Stitch Red Knit Nights will also benefit FNIH in support of The Heart Truth^®. 

About Jimmy Beans Wool

Jimmy Beans Wool is a yarn and fabric retailer offering knitters, crocheters and sewers worldwide a comprehensive selection of the finest yarns and fabrics along with the latest fashion trends. As a market leader in its multi-billion dollar industry, Jimmy Beans Wool takes an innovative, unparalleled approach to marketing. It is the first-ever official yarn, knitting and crochet supplier to U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing and is responsible for the national industry-wide Stitch Red campaign against heart disease in women. The store has been awarded an excellent rating from StellaService for its outstanding customer service reputation and has been named three times to the Inc. 5000, Inc. Magazine's List of Fastest Growing Private Companies in the U.S. It has also been featured on CNN, NPR, Forbes and in the New York Times.

About The Heart Truth^® Campaign
The Heart Truth^® is a national awareness campaign for women about heart disease and is sponsored by the NHLBI, part of the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Through the campaign, the NHLBI leads the nation in a landmark heart health awareness movement that is being embraced by millions who share the common goal of better heart health for all women.

The centerpiece of The Heart Truth is the Red Dress, which was introduced as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness in 2002 by the NHLBI. The Red Dress reminds women of the need to protect their heart health, and inspires them to take action.  To learn more, visit www.hearttruth.gov.

® The Heart Truth and The Red Dress are registered trademarks of HHS. Participation by Jimmy Beans Wool, Dr. Anderson and Stitch Red partners does not imply endorsement by HHS/NIH/NHLBI.

Making Heart Disease Nothing More Than A Memory

Lorna's Laces decided to get involved with Stitch Red when I found out that heart disease is the number one killer of women in this country. If you'd have asked me, I would have bet it was cancer. I would have lost that bet.

I'm pretty lucky, there isn't much heart disease in my family. My mom is 94 and my grandma lived to be 98. But that doesn't mean it hasn't touched my life. A childhood friend and next door neighbor, Lorrie, came home from school one afternoon to find the paramedics unsuccessfully trying to revive her 44 year old father. He'd had a massive heart attack. It wasn't my dad but it was right next door. It's had a lasting effect on my life.

Lorna's Laces has earmarked our best selling red, #11ns Bold Red, in Shepherd Worsted as our Stitch Red product. This easy care, superwash merino is a great choice for your next project.

I'm a firm believer that not much happens with big Eureka! moments. Most important discoveries happen as the sum of many small events. That's one of the things I find so attractive about Stitch Red. It gives us all a chance to place one piece in the puzzle that will one day make heart disease nothing more than a memory.

In the meantime, we have to eat. We have pasta at our house a couple of nights a week. Just before the pasta is finished, I toss a couple of handfuls of veggies (broccoli is a favorite) into the pot right along with the noodles. Everyone gets an extra serving of veg and there are no extra dishes to wash. 

- Beth Casey, Lorna's Laces

Love is in the air...

It certainly is today. Not just because it's Valentine's Day, but also because we are feeling so much love from amazing designers, manufacturers and retailers around the country who are supporting the Stitch Red campaign to stick it to heart disease. Today, we are reminded to show love to those we care about the most. We must also remember to show love to our own hearts, today and every day, and do all that we can to take care of them. To find ways you can give love to your heart and prevent heart disease click here.  




Now, let's see how some of our Stitch Red partners are showing their love for healthy hearts...  



First, you can't miss this sneak peek of a gorgeous pattern by Kieran Foley that will make its debut in the Knit Red book coming out this June. The yarn used is Classic Elite Silky Alpaca Lace.  The talented Sandy at Jimmy Beans Wool did an amazing job knitting the sample you see here. In fact, that's Sandy to the left modeling the beautiful piece!  

Also debuting today is the free pattern for this super cute Healthy Heart Hat by Meg Myers. It's made with Classic Elite Yarns' Stitch Red product, Magnolia, and can be downloaded here. Tiffany from Jimmy Beans Wool talks about this lovely hat and what her plans are for Heart Health Month in Classic Elite's Web-Letter that came out today.

With happy hearts, we at Stitch Red wish everyone a wonderful Valentine's Day and every day the best in heart health!


 - xoxo