Knitters giving back to the community
Yarn Shop owner teaches classes, organizes donation drives for veterans
Christina Pridie loves to knit and loves teaching others the tricks of the trade.
As owner of the Peterborough Yarn Shop for the last seven years, she passes on her knowledge through regular classes, from beginner courses to advanced skills.
She also designs and completes her own knitting patterns.
She also has given back to the community through several projects. Her first project was knitting caps for chemotherapy patients, donating the caps to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Her second project involved knitting mittens for local school children. Pridie and her volunteer knitters gave of their time to create a practical and welcome gift.
Another project saw Pridie and her band of knitters craft small covers for chest catheters, for use in dialysis.
For several years, she also collected small knitted items for Operation Christmas Child, donating them to Samaritan's Purse.
In 2017, she and her band of knitting volunteers took on a project for Canada 150. They created 150 red and white toques for veterans as a way to say thanks for their service.
"We all put our own money into it," she said.
They presented the toques Nov. 11, 2017 during Remembrance day activities the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52.
The hats were also adorned with flag pins that came from former MPP Jeff Leal’s office.
“It was a one-time project for Canada 150," said Pridie.
Her projects evolved as she identified a need in the community. For six years, she was visible as a vendor at the Peterborough farmers market, as well as seasonal venues.
But after seven years at her current location, Pridie is looking to make a change. She is currently working on some relocation plans. The current location at 432 Rogers Street will close Jan. 30, as she downsizes stock to prep for the move.
"Anyone who has a gift certificate should redeem them by Jan. 30," she said.
Plans also include on line classes and videos, retreats, Caribbean knitting and crocheting cruises. She also has her eye on publishing knitting and crocheting books.
Knitters interested in new classes will be happy to hear Pridie is teaching this month. A beginner knitting course happens Jan. 21 at the Seasoned Spoon café, starting at 5 p.m.
Learn how to long tail cast on, knit, tink, and cast off to make a custom fit headband.
Cost is $25 and includes needles, yarn and 2.5 hours of class time.
For more info about the Peterborough Yarn Shop or to book a spot in the beginner knit class, contact Christina at 705-933-9276. For more online visit https:// www.facebook.com/ ThePridieCollection/.