The story behind the trunk show

Dawn shot some terrific photos of some of the samples sent to us by the folks at Manos del Uruguay in order to demonstrate how beautifully their gorgeous sport weigh yarn Serena knits up.  We’ll be sharing those with you early next week.In the meantime, we wanted to be sure you had a chance to learn more about where this yarn comes from.  Serena, like all of the yarns from Manos is beautifully kettle dyed for soft heathered colors that are almost impossible to resist.  But it is the story behind the Manos yarns that make these skeins unique. “The Manos Cooperatives were founded in 1968, begun by five women whose goal was to develop economic opportunities for women in a country where there were, and are still, few opportunities for work.”Purchasing this yarn will help these fiber artisans support her family, and allow the cooperative that she is a part of to enrich her community.  The first 5 kindergartens that were established in Uruguay were created by Manos Cooperatives for their members. “Each skein is signed, so you will know who made your yarn, and from which village it came. You will be supporting the hand-crafted rather than mass-produced, and contributing to an economy where the workers control of the means of production. You, as a handknitter, crocheter or weaver, will be contributing to women’s careers in harmony with family life, and contributing to the landscape, and cultural heritage of Uruguay.”This is a rich tapestry to be a part of.  We are very proud to be a part of this picture by bringing Manos yarn to the My Sister Knits community.  We hope that you can stop by the shop this month to take a look at the inspiring trunk show samples that are on display, and the stunning skeins of yarn that are waiting to be discovered.