Grey Heron Natural Designs carry an array of clothing designed exclusively for Grey Heron, you can't find these products anywhere else!

Don't have time to travel the world?

Don’t have time to travel the world?
Grey Heron has a world of fashions for you to discover!
Come and travel in Fashion!

Grey Heron Natural Designs carry an array of clothing designed exclusively for Grey Heron, you can’t find these products anywhere else!

You will find sizes from 12-24 in addition to an exciting assortment of accessories including, Amber jewellery, Handpainted Silk scarves, Irish wool walking socks, Danish felt slippers, and a Grey Heron hand knit accessory line!



News & Announcements

Interchangeable knitting needle kits have arrived!! · 26 January 10

The needles come in a compact case with each component having its own space.

Stitch holders- Comfortable to use- Flexible- Durable- Airplane safe

Sizes #5-15 US (3.75-10mm)
Makes circular lengths from 17” to 58”
Makes flexible straight needles as well
Any cord easily becomes a stitch holder
Compact 7” x 8.5” case for easy organization
Airline safe and travel friendly
Entirely made in the USA
All knitting parts guaranteed for life
Extra long cords and size #17 & #19 needles are now available separately

What would make your favorite knitter happy:)

a set of Denise needles…

Another buy the Bag wool SALE!!! · 21 January 10

Who likes a soft Donegal Tweed wool?

I do, I do… I like it more now that it’s on SALE for

$85.00 per bag- 10×100g ball (regular $120.00 per bag)

Oatmeal, Camel, Navy, Olive, Dark Teal, Light Teal all with beautiful tweed contrast bits…

Think about that wonderful woolie sweater you wanted to make… It’s do-able now @ this price….

Stop in and treat yourself…

"Thrum" Knitting class @ Grey Heron · 21 January 10

Tuesday, February 2, 2010 10:00am – 12:00pm

Location: Grey Heron 66 Pine St. Collingwood

It’s Thrumming time at Grey Heron…

Class cost $22.00 Pattern included Materials extra

Class instructor: Brenda Harris

Learn how to knit with wool and thrums of roving wool. We will be able to make a headband during our 2 hour class.

Those who register will have a small homework project of completing the ribbing on their headband so we can get started right away on learning the Thrumming technique.

Now you are ready for thrum mittens, hats, socks, slippers and more.

Contact: Karen 705-444-0370 greyheron@bellnet.ca

Look what's new in the wool shop for January · 14 January 10

Are you looking for the extra long circulars for a special project?

The 40” circs have arrived.

What does a girl want?
A Denise Interchangeable needle kit of course!! They should be in next week.
We expect our next order of Cabin Fever’s “Need a Hat” book in next week too.

This weeks wool arrivals:
Bulky Lopi – black, denim blue tweed
Silke Tweed – silk & lambswool – denim blue, black, red tweed
Willow- merino & cashmere blend- sooo soft – black, white
Cotton – bulky weight
On Your Toes sock yarn- Basic black, Dark Brown – classy!!
Soft Twist- wool rayon- brown, lime, orange, slate blue

Shawl/Sweater pins- Domestic woods- beauties!!

Who wants buttons?? Wooden beauties!!
What a selection we now have… dime size to honk’n 3” rounds!!
Gorgeous colours, Toggles too and a mixture of Antler as well…

Stop by… get set up for your next winter project…

2010 classes get started · 14 January 10

GREY HERON YARN SHOP

JANUARY WORKSHOPS January is ‘Beyond Beginner’ month at Grey Heron.

Last fall, dozens of beginners picked up needles for the
first time in our ‘Learn To Knit’ classes.
Many have asked for classes to help take their knitting to the next level.
January’s three workshops will do just that.
Basic skills, but Beyond Beginner

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Knitting With Double Pointed Needles.

Wednesday January 20th 2010

1:30 – 3:30pm

Would you like to knit socks or mittens, but the thought of using 4 or 5 double pointed needles at once has held you back?

This workshop will ease you fears and help you get started on that double pointed needle project.

You will learn –

How to cast on with four needles. How to join without gaps. How to prevent ladders between needles.

How to join so stitches don’t twist. How to knit in the right direction.

All the basics needed to get you started on mittens, socks, sleeves, small hats and all your double pointed needle projects.

Class instruction with Brenda Harris

Class fee $29.00- require payment in advance

Must be able to knit and purl- pattern & yarn supplied- needles extra

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Two Coloured Knitting

Wednesday January 27, 2010

1:30 – 3:30 pm.

Have you ever wondered how the knitter handled all the different yarns in a multi-coloured Fairisle sweater?

Or multi-coloured Latvian Mittens?

Or Fairisle hats?

Or coloured-yoke ski sweaters or headband?

Two colours at a time. That’s it! Just two colours at a time.

This workshop, full of tips and tricks, teaches

How to carry two different yarns at once.

How to prevent puckering.

How to read multi-coloured knitting patterns.

How to master the art of Two Handed Fairisle Knitting.

Once mastered, you have the basics at your fingertips for Latvian Mittens, multi-coloured sweaters, hats, scarves – the sky’s the limit.

Class instruction with Brenda Harris

Class fee $29.00- require payment in advance

Class prep required. Pattern supplied – Materials extra

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How to Knit a Sweater

Saturday Jan 23. Jan 30. & Feb 6.

10:30am to 12:30pm

Let’s get ready to make your first sweater. Knit in the morning and carry on with the rest of your day!!

This class will set you on the right path to making wonderful sweaters!!

Learn all the skills required to make a sweater – gauge to get the size right, increases/decreases left/right slanting, neck shaping, shoulder shaping, front button-hole band, seaming and more….

We will make a child sized sweater with all features listed above. This class is the perfect learning tool. This project can be completed during the 3 week class period.

Class prerequisite: knit/purl, increase, decrease

Class instructor is Brenda Harris

Class fee: $ 78.00 materials extra- 15% off purchase of yarn and needles when registered for this class.

( Yarn cost approx. $20.00)

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Class Policies:

Please phone or visit the store to reserve your space.
Class sizes are limited. Minimum class size may apply.
Payment at time of booking is requested.
If you cancel prior to the start of the class, we will issue a store credit.
Yarn must be purchased at Grey Heron for posted class costs to apply.

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Galway Highland Heathers- By the Bag SALE
Aran yarn by Diamond Luxury Collection- does it remind you of the shores of Ireland? The natural mixes of purple and lavender…

100% Wool weight Aran type Classic, Natural needle size 4.50mm length 200m stitches 18 rows 24 put-up regular retail per bag $75.00 or $7.50 per ball – order by the bag and pay $55.00

Offer open until January 27th while stock available…
Order must be paid for up front. This yarn offer is sold only by the bag. Partner with a friend- add to your stash- get started on a new project…

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Sneak peak into February classes:

Thrumming class- headband project- leads you into making mittens, socks, slippers, hats

Knit Along- Let’s make the “Einstein Jacket” by Sally Melville – Lopi yarn now available @ GH

Knitting Beginner 101, Best foot forward SOCK class, Oopps! – mistake fixing class…

Any suggestions?

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http://www.sallymelvilleknits.com/patterns.html

Asymmetrical Vest pattern from The Knit Stitch book – FREE on the Sally Melville Blog

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New buttons have arrived- Sweater/Shawl pins too

Stop by our booth @ the Georgian Peaks Ladies Day- Friday Feb 5th…

That’s it for now.

Karen, Brenda, Megan, Janet

Hanna Irish Vintage Hats have arrived!! · 20 December 09

Our order has arrived!!... just in time for Christmas…

Patchwork, Herringbone and Plain Tweed… they’re all here…

Trollbead - CLEARANCE SALE · 21 November 09

Hurry in and save on your Trollbead purchases.

We are clearing out all our stock.

SAVE 25% on the regular retail pricing

Christmas is coming- shop early for the best selection…

Workshops @ Grey Heron · 28 October 09

Knit Top Down anyone??

If finishings have got you down, this class is a must for you!!

Join our round table with Deb Gemmell from Cabin Fever as we learn hands-on how to knit top down.

Start with the neckline and head to the bottom…. no seams!!

Class is almost full…. Call now to register for this fabulous class.

Cabin Fever support will be available at the class.

Look what's new in the wool shop · 28 October 09

Noro has arrived!! What a beautiful array of colour and texture. Wonderful pattern support too…

Viking Garn- what’s that you say???
apple green, charcoal, dark brown, red, cherry, off white ….
Bulky yarn- 100% wool- funky Norwegian pattern styles-

Yummy sock yarns… and they are yummy…. Grab a skein and head for the Best Foot Forward class…

A little curly mohair- Manos silk blend- Colourful wool boucle-

And on the way Berroco Sox- Jasper, Blackstone Tweed

Do check out book selection- The One Skein Wonders book will knock out a few gifts from your list!!

Hope to see you soon….

Knitting class info · 28 October 09

Classes:

We have have a few ideas for classes but you’ll have to let us know what you want.

Best Foot Forward- The ins and outs of sock making- Saturday mornings only- Still time for a fab gift for your sweetie

Keep the hands warm- Mittens- basic, gauntlet, patterned, fair-isle, fingerless- you name it and we’‘ll teach it- Wednesday nights 7 – 9

Let’s make a Moebious- This connected scarf with a twist is all the rage. Join us for a knit-a-long… make the real deal or our Faux Moebious- just a beautiful – Wednesday

Finishing School anyone? Now’s the time to learn the tips & tricks to sewing your knitting together- Saturday mornings

Stitch of the month club- Let’s make a throw, afghan or ??- hundreds of stitches to choose- make squares and watch your project take shape.

So, that’s a few of our ideas, now you let us know what you would like….

Call 705-444-0370
All classes must be paid in advance.

Regia Flusi sock yarn just arrived!! · 21 August 09

NEW Regia Flusi $9.95

Content: 70% New Wool, 23% polyamide, 2% Polyester
Ball size: 50g, approximately 200m
Needle size: 2mm – 3mm
Washing instructions: Machine Washable

Flusi and the sock yarn book by Bine Brandle $2.50
FREE with purchase of two balls of yarn.

The story to accompany the yarn!
The adventures of Flusi, Bollo, Zottel, Susi, Fraulein and Sockenbeisser a lovey bedtime story to with the yarns plus full instructions to make a pair of childrens socks.

Make these for your children or grandchildren…

Wonderful colourful socks!!!

We have moved... read all about it!!! · 3 August 09

It’s true… we have moved to 66 Pine Street Collingwood.

We have our wonderful natural clothing lines. All our accessories, leathergoods and jewellery… AND

Exciting news!!.... We have opened a wool shop within. Gorgeous alpacas, hemps, mohairs, silks, wools and more…
Rowan, Colinette, Hemp for Knitting, Berroco, Mission Falls, Manos, Elle Rae, Earth Collection, Elsebeth Lavold….

Dig that old knitting project out of your closet and come along to our Wednesday and Friday “Knit Cafe”. Drop by around 3:00pm and stay until 7:00pm…. Meet our two knitting designers… great gals…
Sign up for a class or a workshop. Get re-introduced to knitting.. relax around the big table… meet new friends.. have a few laughs, a coffee or tea.. add a little sweet treat and it makes for a wonderful afternoon…

Put your best foot forward in one of our Hemp socks… Take the kit home or stay and knit’n chat…

New hours:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 10:00am to 5:30pm
Wednesday, Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm to 4:00pm

Karen

Get the 411 on Greener Fabrics · 2 April 09

by Andrea Chiu City Line newsletter

Know what makes these materials better for the earth.

As we become more and more concerned with the environment, people are making increased efforts to live greener lives. This includes incorporating a greener wardrobe. No one is suggesting you throw out all of your t-shirts, jeans or dresses—that would be a waste. Instead, the next time you’re shopping for a new outfit consider some of these greener materials.

Soy: This versatile bean is not just for sushi or lattes. Soy fabric can be found in many clothing items now. It is made from tofu manufacturing waste and is surprisingly soft with a texture similar to cashmere.

Bamboo: Like soy, bamboo versatile. It can be found in kitchen cabinetry, utensils, furniture and flooring. It’s a very sustainable crop since it requires no pesticides and grows very quickly. The pulp of bamboo grass is used to make bamboo fabric. The product is thermodynamic so it keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It also has a strong wicking ability so moisture is kept away from the body.

Organic cotton: Traditional cotton production uses 25 percent of the world’ insecticides and 10 percent of all pesticides. A single pair of jeans uses 3/4 pounds of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This toxic process of cotton production has encouraged many clothing manufacturers to find a healthier alternative by creating organic cotton clothing which is made without these chemicals. Roots, H&M and the Gap are just a few companies which have jumped on the bandwagon and have created special lines with organic cotton products.

Hemp: Hemp is considered another eco-friendly material because it is resilient and requires no pesticides or insecticides. If a material is made with 50 percent hemp or more, it can block more UV rays than any other fabric. Compared to cotton, hemp is also stronger, more absorbent and mildew-resistant.

My only comment would be inform yourself about the product in question. If the source of the manufacturing is of interest to you, always ask. Not everything is as it seems!!

new email address · 12 November 08

Please use the following email address:

greyheron@bellnet.ca

Thanks

Padraig slippers arrive · 29 October 08

Here ye….

It’s true, Padraig Slippers have arrived in Thornbury….

These little beauties have a real sheepskin base, fleece side fits nicely on the bottom of your foot, suede side on the outside… with a multitude of coloured merino wool uppers…

This is the perfect time to gift a pair on to someone special…

Stop by and try them on… wonderfully warm & cozy…

"Green" garden ideas · 4 June 08

Here’s a few great ideas for keeping your garden “Green”.

Choose plants and flowers that are native to your area. They will flourish in the right setting.
Don’t forget the use your compost in your gardens.
Rotate your vegetable planting every year.
Select plants for the specific conditions- shade, full sun, wet area
Remove diseased plants from the garden.
Use boiling water on weeds growing in brick and concrete patios.
A great lawn aerated regularly, cut at the 3” level, over seeded and watered less will make for a better lawn.

Natural face cleansers... · 21 May 08

Sweet exfoliator

Sugar is a preferred exfoliant to salt because it tends not to tear at the skin. When dead skin collects on the surface of skin, it’s important to slough it away. This helps clear up clogged pores. When skin isn’t exfoliated, it can appear dull and ashy.

INGREDIENTS:
2 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp warm water
PREPARATION:
Stir sugar into warm water so that it melts.
Make sure granules are dissolved, otherwise they could tear your skin.
Apply to the face.
Gently massage around the skin. Rinse with warm water.

Rosewater face mask

This mask, based on roses, is perfect for balancing out the oily and dry areas of your skin.

INGREDIENTS:
Optional: 6 fresh rose petals
2 tbsps rosewater
1 tbsp natural yogurt, room temperature (not lowfat or non-fat)
1 tbsp runny honey (to get honey runny, you can warm it in a microwave for a few seconds).
PREPARATION:
Soak rose petals, then crush them in a bowl.
Add the rosewater, yogurt and honey.
Mix well and apply to the skin.
Leave on for 10 minutes.
Rinse.

Witch Hazel Cleaning Tonic

Witch hazel has long been known to have astringent qualities. The liquid you can find in the shelves of drug store is an herbal extract with exceptional cleansing, soothing, and healing properties. It was originally used by Native Americans, who used witch hazel bark and twigs in many therapeutic applications and passed on their knowledge to the settlers.

To make your own old fashioned witch hazel astringent, combine 1 cup of witch-hazel with 2 tablespoons of alcohol and apply it to your skin with cotton ball. If you are sensitive to alcohol, you can substitute it with 1/4 cup of white vinegar.

Citrus Blackhead Treatment

Removing blackheads can easily be done with lemon. Citrus naturally exfoliates, which makes lemon useful when it comes to fighting blackheads in your cleansing routine.
Cut the lemon in half then rub it directly on your face before going to bed.

You can also extract lemon juice with a citrus reamer, remove the seeds and then add 2 tablespoons of rosewater. Mix the lemon juice and rosewater together and your tonic will be more fragrant.

I can’t guarantee these cleansers will work for you. If you have allergies or sensitivities, please consult with your Dr. before trying any of these cleansers.

Shingle Bay B&B... for your next holiday? · 9 May 08

Welcome to Shingle Bay B&B on beautiful North Pender Island, located in the stunning southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia. This distinctive Bed and Breakfast features a beautiful enclosed courtyard garden and is surrounded by park like grounds with private walking paths. Directly across from your ‘Touch of the Casbah’ private suite is the well maintained Shingle Bay Park with easy beach access. Several extensive hiking trails are just steps away in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This exclusive Pender Island accommodation is the perfect place to relax, unwind and truly enjoy a ‘Pender moment’.

Shingle Bay B&B
2606 Galleon Way
Pender Island, BC
V0N 2M2

For information and bookings contact Carolyn:
Phone/Fax: 250 629-9954
Email: info@shinglebaybandb.ca

Make your Own chemical free cleaners · 2 April 08

White vinegar
To disinfect and deodorize, dilute vinegar with an equal amount of water for floors, tiles, stoves and counters; use full strength on toilets, sinks and the humidifier calcium and lime build up.
Refrain from using on Marble or Grout.

Baking soda
Gentle abrasion helps scrub away dirt and stains, with deodorizing action as well. Mix with three equal parts water and scrub the fridge, the sink and the oven.

Borax
Mix with four parts water to create a bleach substitute; mix with two parts water for a disinfecting tub, tile and toilet cleaner; and sprinkle on carpets, then vacuum, to clean and deodorize.

Lemon juice
Cut grease or bleach out stains with a fresh scent as an added bonus. Mix with baking soda to wash dishes, or with olive oil to polish furniture. Add 1/2 cup (125 ml) to the washing machine to bleach laundry.

Modea Denim, Modea Marine, Modea Blouse are HERE.... · 28 August 07

You name it… We’ve got it…

Gorgeous white blouses… Pearl buttons, Mother of Pearl buttons, Ruffles, Pin tucks, fitted waist, French cuffs…

From Blue Black to Midnight Blue to Blue denim the choice is yours… Flat front, 5 pocket, Cords… just to name a few

Twin sets are back…. soft and luxurious cotton Navy and Camel two tone Cardie… matched with crew neck top in Camel or Navy …

Or the long sleeve crew neck sweater in Camel, Navy or Indigo might be more to your liking…

Or check out our cotton sweaters… double breasted, ruffle edges, cable vest and much more…

Don’t be disappointed… Shop early…

Hope to see you, Karen

Gift Certificates are available!! · 15 June 06

If you have a special gift giving occasion coming up
and you’re not sure what to buy…
Give us a call and we can arrange for a Gift Certificate.
If you know your special someone shops here,
chances are pretty good that we have their sizes and colour
preferences on file.

These are available any time for any denomination.

Trollbeads are Here!!!! · 24 May 06

Have you heard of Trollbeads?
This fabulous and creative Scandinavian designed jewellery has now arrived!!
Each bead has been designed with the utmost attention to detail.

Taking muse from the fairy tales of Hans Christian Anderson, intricate beads depicting Thumbelina, The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid have been created.

Further inspiration from astrology, mythology, flora and fauna make up more of the designs.

Stop by today and choose from dozens of Trollbeads. Create a playful and charming bracelet to tell your life story.

The Story Behind Grey Heron Natural Designs Inc. · 5 December 05

Opportunity was knocking and I listened. After spending more than two decades in finance areas, I decided to venture out in a different direction.

In February 2000 my husband Jim and I moved to Copenhagen Denmark. Jim’s job took us on a wonderful adventure. We both worked for the same company located just outside of Copenhagen.

We immersed ourselves in the Danish culture. We studied the Danish language so we could converse with our colleagues and local shopkeepers. Even our five children came to Denmark to experience their own version of “Christmas in Copenhagen”

As we were getting ready move home, it was at this point that I realized it was time to make a change in careers. At first I thought about something small and home based. I had grown to love the Scandinavian clothing designs I was wearing so by adding a few Irish designers to the mix Grey Heron Natural Designs was created.

With the help of carpenter son Brent, daughter Melanie and husband Jim, my once imaginary shop design was born.

Together we have taken my ideas and created the cozy eclectic surroundings found here. I have chosen to carry high quality product from designers in Sweden, Ireland, Denmark, Scotland and the Faroe Islands. Their passion for design is reflected in the superb quality, functionality and clean lines of each of their designs.

With the help and support of our children, family and friends, we were delighted when our doors opened on September 25th 2004.
Come by and browse through the designs. Surround yourself in cozy merino woollens.

Suit yourself for the office in a beautiful linen outfit.
Dress it up with a Scandinavian designed leather handbag from Adax.

“You just don’t find a shop like this any more”

Story by Karen Farmilo, Proprietor. Grey Heron Natural Designs