Artyarns Spotlight 11/2010

Written by Administrator

Iris Schreier

Artyarns is such a well known and highly respected name in the knitting industry that it's hard to believe the company began only eight years ago. It is one of the very few good things that has resulted from the tragic day in 2001 when thousands of Americans lost their lives in the terrible attack on the World Trade Center.

At that time, Iris Schreier was working in Corporate America, and was on a flight from New York City to San Francisco. Imagine the horror she and her fellow passengers must have felt as they witnessed the second jet flying into the World Trade Center on the airplane's TVs. Like every other flight that was in the air above the United States and Canada, her JetBlue airplane was told to land. She spent the next few days alone, afraid, in a hotel room in Kansas City. She couldn't get back to her husband and her sons who were almost half a country away.

"I decided during that time that I would change careers and move out of corporate life, and into the arts," she tells us. "I wanted to change my career so that I could be around more for my family."

Because she'd always been an avid knitter, Iris turned to her hobby and discovered she had a talent for designing. She teamed up with a friend and decided to pitch a book idea to Lark Publishing, a division of Sterling. As if the Fates had guided her future, Iris became a pattern designer and author whose first book, Exquisite Little Knits, was accepted for publication.

She then set about the task of finding the right yarns for her book. She needed something for every chapter — Merino, Cashmere, Mohair, Silk, and others — but she was surprised to discover she couldn't find precisely what she wanted.

"I found that some segments were very lacking," Iris says. "I could not find at that time a DK silk that was sufficiently light, for example, and my double-knit project turned out too heavy for my liking. That's how Regal Silk evolved."

Artyarns Cashmere 5 was created when Iris couldn't find a hand-dyed cashmere in the quality and color range she wanted for the book. Every yarn she couldn't find became a business opportunity for her to explore. Soon, she was adding Artyarns Supermerino, Artyarns Silk Mohair and others to her stable of fine quality fibers...a stable that continues to grow each season.

Iris is proud of her contribution to the world of knitting: her yarns appeal to the most discerning, uncompromising knitter. She has acquired a reputation for being an innovator of luxury yarns — one who inspires creativity with her new combinations of hand-painted, beaded and sequined fibers.

"I consider it my mission to constantly up the ante by improving and adding unique yarns to the line," she says.

Iris Schreier

When you approach your own business with passion, apply to it the skills you honed in the corporate world, and you are meticulous about the quality you produce, there's a strong chance your business will become a success. Artyarns is a great example of the little business that could. It started as a home venture, moved into a one-room studio, and then evolved into the factory that it is today. It has made such an impact on the yarn industry that it was recently selected by American Express for one of their small business makeovers. You can watch videos about their project on the Amex Open Forum site.

To help the business get even stronger Iris' husband, Elliot, joined the business in 2004 as CEO so they now work together as a couple, with several full-time employees who help manufacture the yarns. Iris and Elliot are now working harder than they've ever worked in their lives — because owning a business changes how you think about your life.

"My life is my work now," Iris says happily. "I am close to home most of the time, and I am always available to my family.

Next time you're looking for sophisticated, hand-painted yarn of absolutely exquisite quality, you'll want to explore Iris Schreier's Artyarns. What started as a way for Iris to escape the corporate world to spend more time with her family has become a tremendous success that quickly rose to become one of the most respected yarn producers in the country. The sad story of a young wife and mother alone and afraid during terrifying hours has a very, happy ending.

Win an Artyarns Gift Package Worth Over $150

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Impressionist Beaded Mohair & Sequins

We were so enthralled with Iris Schreier's luscious Beaded Mohair & Sequins yarn that we asked her to create it in our Impressionist Colors — original palettes inspired by the French artists. This yarn is perfect for dressy holiday projects. 8 Impressionist colors and 10 Artyarns colors.

Impressionist
Beaded Silk

Beaded Silk can be used alone or as trim when combined with Artyarns Regal Silk. It creates pretty jackets, sumptuous scarves and party wear. The yarn is composed of Regal Silk with the addition of beads on a file silk thread. 8 Impressionist colors treatments.

Iris Schreier's
Reversible Knits

Cashmere 5
Accessory Collection

Cashmere Baby Collection

Lacy Little Knits

Exquisite Little Knits

Faux Lace Scarf or Sash

Lacy Silk Tank Top

Silk Mohair
Openwork Shawl

Silk Side to Side Shell

His or Her Silk Necktie

Silk Side to Side Jacket

Abbey Mock Turtleneck Pullover

Impressionist
Cashmere Sock

Ahhh... the ultimate in luxury. Iris has enhanced the softest cashmere with her exquisite selection of colors. This yarn is crafted with 2 strands of cashmere and 1 strage of a wool/nylon twist for added strength. It can even be machine washed! 8 Impressionist colors and 18 Artyarns colors.

Beaded Silk & Sequins

If you thought Beaded Silk was the ultimate in glittering glamour fibers, you'll be delighted with Iris Schreier's Beaded Silk & Sequins yarn. This sparkling combination will pretty up and party outfit! In 12 colors with "S" for silver and "G" for gold beads and sequins.

Beaded Ensemble & Sequins Yarn

This is one of the most beautiful yarns you'll ever see...or feel. It's a multi-plied blend of silk and cashmere enhanced with sparkling beads and sequins. Perfect for holiday evening wear or any special occasion item. 10 colors with "S" for silver and "G" for gold beads and sequins.

Beaded Silk Pearl & Sequins

Iris often begins with one idea and then embellishes to create a truly exceptional yarn. She's done it again with Beaded Silk Pearl & Sequins, a DK weight yarn you'll adore. This is 100% silk with glass beads and sequins. 11 colors with "S" for silver and "G" for gold.

Cashmere 5

This season, we're seeing cashmere in all the fashion magazines. You'll want to knit yourself something beautifully luxurious using Artyarns Cashmere 5 yarn. It's unplied, 100% cashmere that's perfect for adult garments or heirloom baby gifts. 11 perfectly pretty colors to choose from.

Ensemble

This superb blend of 75% silk and 25% cashmere comes in a generous 256 yard hank. It's the same cashmere Iris uses for her super-soft Cashmere 5, blended with a lustrous strand of silk. Ensemble is a worsted-weight yarn that comes in 10 gorgeous colours.

Mohair Splash

Using the Mohair she selected for her Silk Mohair blend, Iris created Mohair Splash, a spectacular combination of silk and mohair yarn with the addition of beads and sequins on a thin silk threat. This yarn comes in 15 colors with "S" for silver and "G" for gold embellishments.

Impressionist Regal Silk

This is one of the most popular Artyarns fibers we sell...and it's little wonder. Impressionist Regal Silk recreates 100% Regal Silk in our exclusive Impressionist colorways. This fiber is warm in winter and cool in summer. It comes in 8 Impressionist colors and 27 Artyarns colors.

Silk Pearl

There's no doubt about it. Iris loves silk. In this pretty yarn, she's added tiny pearls to the DK-weight multi-ply yarn. The luminosity and sheen are truly breathtaking. Perfect for shawls and party wear. Silk Pearl is available in 11 colors to knit or crochet.

Silk Rhapsody

Silk Rhapsody is a masterpiece of supple silk with the soft halo of mohair. This yarn would be ideal for worsted weight projects like scarves, sweaters, shawls and jackets. May knitters use it for stunning accessories. It's avalable in 15 glorious colors hand-dyed d by Iris Schreier.

Impressionist Supermerino

Once you feel this luscious Supermerino yarn you'll want to knit with it. And once you see it, you'll want to knit with it a lot! This 100% merino wool is hand-painted by Iris in 8 Impressionist Collection colors and 15 of her own Artyarns shades. Surprise! It's machine-washable!

Silk Rhapsody Glitter

Silk aficionado and designer extraordiner, Iris was inspired to add a a thin metallic thread to her Silk Rhapsody yarn to create something even more sensational. This yarn is very popular for evening wear — shawls, tops, scarves and even coats. You love all 12 colors.

Abbey Collection

Inspired by a monk; crafted by Iris Schreier. Abbey Collection yarns combine the luxury of superwash merino with the simplicity of a monk's pastel artwork. We donate $1 to his monastery for every hank we sell. This yarn is available in 12 solid and variegated colors.

Fabulous Felines Chunky

Iris hand-dyes these amazingly soft and sumptuous yarns in colors to match different cats submitted by our shoppers. These yarns are wonderful for anyone who appreciates a great chunky wool, but especially fun for cat lovers. 14 purrfect shades.

Ultra Merino 8

Ultramerino 8 is ulta soft and ultra velvety. It has a smooth texture with no twist so it provides outstanding stitch definition. Great for all your winter worsted weight projects like gloves, hats and scarves to keep you cosy warm. 10 colors created by Iris Schreier.

Impressionist Silk Mohair

This yarn works beautifully on its own or when combined with Regal Silk. It's light and airy, soft and silky. Use it for pretty garments or accessories like wraps, scarves and shawls with a lacy or intricate pattern. It's available in 8 exclusive Impressionist and 6 Artyarns shades.

Regal Silk After Five Shrug
from Lacy Little Knits

Like many of the world's best knitting pattern designers, Iris Schreier was introduced to the craft at an early age. She was just six years old when her mother taught her the skill, and she says that she has been knitting, crocheting, working needlepoint and beading for as long as she can remember. Her experiences during the 9/11 attacks revitalized her passion for her hobby and she was soon knitting for peace and relaxation. Like many of us, Iris found comfort and contentment in the act of creating fiber artistry, a meditative respite from all the troubles of the world.

As she marveled at all the beautiful yarns that were now available to knitters, she was inspired to collaborate with her friend and neighbor, Laurie Kimmelsteil, on the development of a pattern book. Iris and Laurie sold the idea to a publisher and, suddenly, Iris Schreier had launched a new career.

Exquisite Little Knits became a hit with its 40 fabulous projects for luxury yarns because it showed knitters how they can create something beautiful using well selected yarns. As one knitter, "Helixstrands" posted on Amazon's reviews of the book, "A smidge of indecently expensive yarn will take you far: I plan to wear even the dressier items with jeans, and coddle each as an heirloom piece."

It was a concept that other knitters also embraced, praising patterns like Iris' Feather Lace Stole and Men's Hot & Now Scarf. The success of this little collection propelled Iris into the fashion spotlight.

As Iris had discovered while she was gathering yarns to use in her book, it's not always easy for knitters to find the finest quality fibers. This is what compelled her to create her own yarn company, Artyarns, giving her the wonderful ability to manufacture the types of yarns she wanted to use in her projects — beautifully hand-painted fibers of superior quality, often elegantly embellished with the glitter of beads and sequins.

"I develop yarns specifically with knitting designs in mind," Iris says of her products. Her yarns and her patterns are never overdone, never overpowering, but always chic and sophisticated like Iris herself.

"Because I was not formally trained, I think it's easier for me to develop my own ways of doing things."

This is likely why Iris is considered an innovator. It simply wouldn't occur to her that there are rules to be followed. Instead, she is forging her own path, and delighting knitters as she does so! She's considered particularly adept in developing patterns for modular knitting, new lace techniques and reversible knitwear. Why? Because she does it in the way that makes sense to her. One Amazon reviewer praised the simple instructions in Iris' innovative pattern book, Modular Knits.

"The patterns are easy to read and follow, the knitting relaxing and enjoyable, and the final results are spectacular!" wrote Jane Grabenstein of PA after using the book. That's precisely the reaction Iris was hoping to achieve.

"Reversible Knits came about because I'd become frustrated by designs that only looked good on one side," she says. "I decided that there were enough tricks and techniques out there that could allow you to make two sides that looked good."

Iris made it look easy.

Building Block Scarf from
Iris Schreier's
Modular Knits book

When asked about her creative process, she says she does on occasion wake up in the middle of the night with a brilliant idea. But, very often, the creation of a good design is difficult work that requires a lot of ripping and re-knitting. Iris admits there are times when persistence must overcome frustration...because she doesn't just want to create a scarf, but a scarf that will cause people to caress it, admire it and then ask her, "How on earth did you do this?"

"I like to dazzle," Iris says. "I love glitzy sophistication."

She seems to have an innate understanding of the power of elegant understatement.

"I let the yarn talk to me," she says as she describes her creative process. She considers the hand, the drape, and the colors which must all meet her very exacting specifications.

"I want to design an exquisite piece, something that excites and inspires people."

As she speaks, Iris' eyes sparkle as much as the pretty beads on her yarns. And her smile is as charming as the exquisite designs for which she's become so famous.

Beaded Mohair &
Sequins Jacket

You love the lacy lightness of this luxurious little number! It's perfect for holiday parties, paired with a simple black dress or a satiny top. Whatever you wear it with, you'll feel absolutely beautiful in this sparkly and elegant piece that's knit with three skeins of Artyarns Beaded Mohair & Sequins yarns. Order today so you can wear this divine little jacket to holiday events.

Beaded Mohair &
Sequins Lace Vest

When you want to dress up in something simple yet special, toss on this elegant evening vest that glitters with gleaming sequins. The little cap sleeves keep shoulders warm when worn over a little black dress or satin tank top. You might even pair it with jeans for a dressy casual event. The Beaded Mohair & Sequins vest requires only 2 skeins of yarn.

Beaded Mohair & Sequins
Victorian Scarf

If you're looking for a very special gift for a friend or family member, just think how much she'd love to receive this delicate, lacy open-knit scarf. With the halo of mohair and the glitter of sequins, this ethereal piece is softly flattering and feminine. The finished size is 8" x 42", so it won't take long at all to complete. Best of all, it requires only one skein of Beaded Mohair & Sequins yarn!

Lacy Silk
Tank Top

It's great for summer all alone, but it's fantastic for winter, too, when worn under a jacket or cardigan. The Lacy Tank Top is knit in Regal Silk, one of Artyarns' most popular fibers. With an intricate lace design hemline and neckline, this is a project for advanced intermediate knitters, or those who want to extend their skills. Try it! You'll be proud you did.

Regal Side to Side
Silk Jacket

This gorgeous jacket made the cover of Knit 'n Style magazine! It combines the colors of Impressionist art with the silky radiance of Regal Silk and the glitter of Beaded Silk yarn. Knitting side to side, this design has wonderful detailing— from the lacework at the hem to the optional crochet trim at the sleeve cuffs and bottom. Wear it with the Regal Side to Side Shell.

Regal Silk Side
to Side Shell

If you love the Regal Side to Silk Silk Jacket, you'll also want to create this pretty side-to-side shell that can be work alone in warmer seasons. This flattering top is an elegant addition to your evening wardrobe, though you can pair it with jeans for less formal events. The pattern for this project is free when you purchase the exclusive Impressionist Collection yarn at Yarnmarket.

Silk Reversible
Lace Shrug

Here's another fabulous project that was featured in Knit 'n Style magazine. This Regal Silk Reversible Lace Shrug combines the velvety softness of Regal Silk with a complementary hue of Beaded Silk & Sequins. You could also choose a contrasting color for a completely different look. Whichever you choose, you'll ceate an elegant accent to enhance your evening wear wardrobe.

Supermerino
Chevron Scarf

This chevron scarf is knit in Supermerino in one of the Yarnmarket exclusive Impressionist Collection colorways — Monet's Garden. The pretty colors, gentle wave pattern and generous sizing make this a perfect accessory to brighten up your winter wardrobe on dull gray days. you'll get the pattern free from Yarnmarket and you can buy the wool in 8 gorgeous color combinations.

Ultramerino 8
Asymmetrical Jacket

Toss it on for everyday use or dress it up for eveningwear. This pattern by Joan Forgione was designed exclusively for Vogue magazine — so you know it's high fashion. It's knit in the exquisitely solft Ultramerino 8 from Artyarns. The cardigan has popular 3/4 length sleeves and a hipbrushing hemline that's flattering to every figure. A fabulous oversized collar frames the face.

Cashmere
Toe-Up Sock

Every once in a while it's nice to treat yourself — or a loved one — to a luxurious indulgence. If you're looking for something that's perfect for this gift-giving season, you'll love this pattern created with Artyarns Cashmere Sock yarn. The color shown is our exclusive Impressionist Collection colorway in Monet's Garden. This project requires 2 hanks of Cashmere Sock yarn.

Abbey Merino Modified
Raglan Cardi

This stylish piece made the cover of Cast On Magazine, The Knitting Guild Association's membership publication. Crafted in Abbey Merino Sunset Chapel, this cardigan is created with cables on a seed stitch background. The modified raglan shaping showcases the center back panel of cabling. This would be lovely in any one of our exclusive Abbey Collection yarns.

Abbey Asymmetrical
Pullover

When knitters see the sample of this sweater in our shop, they absolutely love it! It's little wonder, too. The two front panels are created in different colors and lengths, and have a removable pocket. We used contrasting shades of Abbey Collection yarn for added interest. This is a terrific modular pattern that isn't difficult...and the results are heavenly!

Fabulous Felines Quick
Ribbed Bolero Vest

Here's a project for next weekend! This cute little cropped vest uses Yarnmarket's exclusive Fabulous Felines yarn. The color shown is Monet, named after the pussycat whose coloring inspired it, but you can make it in any one of our 14 Fabulous Felines colors. The lusciously soft and smooth chunky yarn provides outstanding stitch definition.

Fabulous Felines Yoked
V-Neck Pullover

We love this piece for layering. It's a pretty V-neck with long sleeves. The pullover has a complementary yoke and sleeves in a simple ridged pattern created using a single purl row on a stockinette base. The rich cholocate color of this model was inspired by feline Fidgesaurus Rex. If you're a beginner looking for your first sweater project, this could be a great start!

Arriving next week!
Pleat Collar Jacket

This gorgeous, glittering jacket by Linda Karabinech is featured in the new Vogue Holiday Knitting magazine. Crafted in Artyarns Mohair Splash and Beaded Mohair in gleaming gold, it's available in sizes Small to 2X. Search Yarnmarket next week for "Pleat Collar" or "Mohair Splash" next week when Vogue Holiday Knitting magazine is available at Yarnmarket.

Save up to 50%
off selected yarns

This fabulous prize package includes the pattern for the Beaded Mohair & Sequins Victorian Scarf, a skein of Impressionist Collection Beaded Mohair & Sequins so you can create it, a copy of Iris Schreier's Exquisite Little Knits and four skeins of the sumptuously soft Fabulous Felines yarn.

To enter, you must correctly answer this question: "What was the first yarn Iris created for Artyarns?"

Send an email with your answer to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Make sure the subject is: Spotlight on Artyarns.

A winner will be drawn at random from all correct entries received. One entry per person, please. Entries must be received by 11/30/2010 and the winner will be announced on 12/3/2010 in our blog, Shear Bagatelle.

Congratulations! The winner of our Rowan Spotlight gift package was Jennifer L. of Stowe, VT.