Knitting for those who serve our country

At Alpaca Direct, we are always looking for ways to give back to our community. I can not think of anyone more deserving than those who keep our country safe so we can enjoy our freedom.

This year we are taking part in a program called Operation Gratitude, Saying “Thank You” to all of those who serve. Nothing expresses gratitude quite like an item made with love. Our heroes are always deeply touched by the care and effort put into handmade scarves and hats sent to them by fellow Americans. If you would like to participate please visit www.OperationGratitude.com for the details. The items we make and donate will ship Jan. 15, 2017. If you would like to buy yarn for this event, we are offering a 20 percent discount code in our store to buy yarns going toward the donation. Just mention “Operation Gratitude” and our staff will help you pick out yarns approved for the program. Many of our local knitters are supporting this event and we could use your help too!

Don’t know how to knit or crochet? Some customers come in and buy yarn and donate it so one of our local knitters can make a scarf or hat since they don’t know how to knit. This is a great opportunity to touch someone serving in far way lands to protect our freedoms. If you have not recently knit or crocheted, or just want to brush up on some techniques I encourage you to give it a try this winter. Experience how knitting a few rows can put a smile on your face and help your stress melt away. If you are interested in learning to knit or crochet, we have classes for both beginners and more experienced knitters. We also have free open knitting groups each week (Tuesday 6-8 p.m. and Thursday 1-3 p.m.) where you can sit with other knitters, get advice and share stories.

In case you have not heard about us, Alpaca Direct is a direct merchant of high-quality yarn, apparel, gifts and warm alpaca socks. We carry a full line of fiber art accessories, including hundreds of needles and thousands of yarns. Our unique selection of products also includes Peruvian alpaca hats and gloves, hand-loomed lace scarves, warm alpaca socks, cuddly alpaca teddy bears and snuggly alpaca slippers.

Our building is handicap accessible, with ample parking and is easy to find. You can find us on Hayden Avenue, just two blocks west of Highway 95 at 1016 W. Hayden Ave. in Hayden. Our phone is (208) 209-7079 or online at www.AlpacaDirect.com.