travelknitter in Copenhagen
Now I’ve finally caught my breath, it’s time for a post about Copenhagen. I had an amazing time there, but looking back, I have very very few photos, especially considering how beautiful the city is. I think I was just far too busy trying to see and do everything I wanted, and of course I was there in something of a heatwave, so I struggled a bit.
Denmark is, of course, a country with a long knitting tradition, so I had to prioritise visiting at least some of the local yarn stores:
My must-see store was Amimono, and it didn’t disappoint. I think it would probably win the award for the world’s smallest yarn store, although it’s hard to tell from this photo:
It’s a tiny little gem on the corner of Kongens Have (King’s Garden), where I seemed to end up at some point every day of my trip. The store stocks only but Isager patterns, yarn, and sample garments, so is the perfect opportunity to see these ‘in real life’. The sales assistant so was so incredibly lovely and helpful, I had a great time trying on the two garments that I really want to make, and came away with a much clearer idea of sizing and fit. Amazing customer service, and apparently there are two new pattern books coming out in September too.
I also stopped by Sommerfuglen, where I picked up a copy of The Fine Line by Grace Anne Farrow. I might potentially one day make the shawl in red:
Yeah, as if I don’t have enough pattern books already! Of all the stores I went to, this had the widest range of familiar yarns, such as Hand Maiden, Shibui, Cherry Tree Hill etc Staff didn’t seem too keen to pay me any attention, but it was really too hot to be buying yarn anyway.
The third yarn store that I visited was Wilferts in Frederiksberg. They seemed to have a good range of their own yarn brand and it seemed like a pleasant sort of place to browse. Unfortunately I was ready to drop by then and couldn’t really do the place justice. It’s a rare day that even yarn in baskets on the street isn’t enough to tempt me:
I noticed that there were lots of gorgeous street-side displays around the city. Rolls of pretty oilcloth seemed to be everywhere:
I did also pass some other yarn stores, that were either closed because of the time of day, or were shut for the summer break. It’s so rare for shops to close for the summer in London that it didn’t even occur to me!
One of the highlights of my visit to Copenhagen was finally getting to meet the lovely Birgitte. I’m not sure how I first stumbled across her blog (most likely through Ravelry) but I absolutely love her projects. Just about everything she makes is either in my queue, or quickly is added to it. (Of course, Birgitte actually knits stuff; I just plan to). If I ever get around to knitting socks again, her October socks are at the top of my list. We met up for a spot of knitting, eating burgers and drinking wine; just my idea of a fab evening. Thanks Birgitte!
A few last tips for anyone visiting Copenhagen:
- Stop and smell the roses that grow out of the footpath. They do actually smell amazing.
- It’s more expensive than you think.
- Do a bike tour with Mike. It’s without a doubt the best way to see the city.