Knitters Descend on Kings County Fiber Festival Tomorrow

Knitters, spinners, and fiber artists of all kinds from all over the city will be arriving, pointy needles in hand, at the Old Stone House tomorrow for the first-ever Kings County Fiber Festival. The event was created by Maxcine DeGouttes, who runs Stitch Therapy, the 7th Avenue yarn shop that shares a space with Noella Brew Bar, and she took some time to tell us what we can expect at the show, and why picking up knitting could help us all relax a bit.

How did the fest come to be? And why did you chose the Old Stone House?
It was a dream of mine for the past few years, and the Old stone House and I have always had a friendly relationship. I thought it was the perfect site inside and out. I have been working in the old traditional crafts for over 40 years.

What can experienced fiber artists expect to get out of the event? And what about people who are new to these crafts?
It’ll be fun for the experienced to be in a universe that caters to them, and a novice will have the chance to get involved and see how they can participate in the needle arts. It will also be very hands-on for kids.

You’re plenty crafty yourself. What are you most looking forward to at the event?
I just want everyone to enjoy it. I am a great fan of Gail Rothschild so the exhibit “Fabrications” will be nice to see.

What do you think people get out of fiber arts? What are some of the advantages for us city folk?
Creativity – everyone needs a hobby, and this is one way to go. It is art in your hands from the moment that you touch the fiber. You get to play and relax your mind.

I knit and crochet, but I am a knitter. My first student was my junior high school home economics teacher.

NYC is filled with great talent in the fiber community that are willing to learn something new at any age. One of the things that I really enjoy is seeing the beauty in my customers’ projects – from color, texture and art.

The Kings County Fiber Festival is at the Old Stone House on Saturday, October 6 from 10am-6pm. Maxcine tells us she hopes this becomes an annual event – visit the website to join the mailing list to learn about future shows.