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With her brilliant smile, deep-throated chuckle and down-home Southern charm, there's no mistaking the enchanting and effervescent Susan Moraca. She bursts into the room in a whirl of activity — like the Tasmanian Devil on uppers — and before you've even had a chance to say hello, her eyes light up and she explodes into an account of what incredible things occurred on her way to your meeting. You can see that she loves every minute of the madness and mayhem in her life. Susan Moraca is the tiny pistol behind Kollage Yarns. In 2004, she had become bored with corporate life and decided it was time to make a change; time to start something new. She wanted to go back to an activity she truly loved: knitting. She'd first learned to knit when she was in six years old and her best friend's aunt had come to visit. The aunt taught her to knit slippers, and as she describes it in her whisky-voiced, Southern drawl, "I loved it. I just couldn't stop!" That Christmas she made slippers embellished with pom-poms for everyone in her family. Her love of knitting continued throughout her life, and by the 1980s she was designing patterns for yarn shops and knitting commissioned garments. Her tiny business flourished so she opened a small home studio where she sold yarn and taught machine and hand knitting. Like all great artists, Susan was inspired to push the boundaries of her craft. And as she looked for new ideas, she started examining her tools and raw materials. That's when she decided she needed different yarns — yarns she couldn't find at the time in the retail market: different colors, different fiber combinations, different ways for her to express her creative spirit. Soon, Susan was combining different colors and fibers into unique, one-of-a-kind blends. "Scarves and big knitting were hot," she says, "So I was kept very busy." Once she'd embarked on an entirely new path in her life, it wasn't long before Susan was fully immersed in designing yarns and patterns, and teaching others to knit. When she took her creations to a TKGA Event in Atlanta, GA she quickly sold out. It seemed others appreciated her custom yarns and skills as much as she enjoyed displaying them! While at the event, she met two women who offered to share their booth with her at an upcoming TNNA show. This is the big industry event where hopeful manufacturers and distributors display their products, and discerning yarn shop owners decide which ones they'll be buying for their shelves. Susan was smart enough to take advantage of the offer, and left the TNNA show with an armful of orders and a brand new company to grow.
With a lot to produce in a very short time, it's not surprising that Susan gathered around her a strong support system — her husband, Mark, her mother, aunt, sister, brother-in-law and nephews. With the help of her family team, Susan's Kollage Yarns has grown exponentially, now featuring a boutique line that ranges from environmentally friendly yarns we need to the traditional fibers we adore. "After I design a yarn," she tells us, "it sits on my desk until I can pick an appropriate name based on the feel of the yarn. I have to confess that I sometimes pet it for days looking for the perfect name." This autumn season Susan is particularly proud of her new Riveting Worsted, a 100% recycled yarn created from recycled blue jeans. Just like you wear jeans year round, Riveting is an all season yarn. It was first introduced in sport weight and after listening to her customers' requests, she decided to add it in worsted weight. Kollage is also featuring their magnificent Lofty for fall, a bulky 100% Merino Wool Roving that is perfect for fashionable, and fashionably quick-to-knit, accessories. This fairly new entry to the market has been extremely popular and Susan tells us it's flying off the shelves! Susan has also added eight new colors in Sock-a-licious, their popular combination of superwash merino, mulberry silk and nylon. Although she got into the business because of her fascination with fiber, Susan and Kollage have made a real contribution to knitters with the development of their unique, square knitting needles that are so appreciated by knitters with arthritis.
"After our first year in business I wanted to thank our customers for their support. My father-in-law is great with wood working, so I asked him to make me Rosewood knitting needles as gifts. He purchased a collection of different colors of Rosewood and began making the needles," Susan tells us. When her father-in-law showed her the sample needles so she could choose her favorite color before he rounded them, she was ecstatic. "I wondered, what would happen if you knit with a square needle? Would the stitches look the same?" As soon as she got them into her hands and started knitting with them, she was struck by how nice they felt to hold, and how perfectly uniform the stitches were. "Who would have ever known?!" she exclaims. Soon, her little company started producing wooden straight needles, and it wasn't long until they were receiving testimonials from grateful customers who said the needles had allowed them to knit again! "They had all but quit knitting due to hand fatigue, carpal tunnel or arthritis," Susan says. "We realized that not only were they fun, but they were functional as well." Today, the needles are made in aluminum, and the line has expanded to include circulars, double points and crochet hooks. From the creation of needles, to the development of yarns and patterns, Susan always has her eye on the market. As a matter of fact, she spends a huge amount of time in direct contact with knitters by sponsoring all the STITCHES Expos. She even sponsors the free Learn To Knit classes at STITCHES by providing free yarns and square needles so others can learn the craft using quality-made materials. "We also work with our retail partners at STITCHES, Sock Summit, and many other consumer shows dedicated to fiber," Susan says, "We're there learning and, of course, shopping!" Wherever you may be throughout the country, you could very well run into the Kollage team at an event for knitters or crocheters. "They provide us with so much inspiration," she tell us. "Besides, it’s fun. Who doesn’t want to hang out with a bunch of knitters and crocheters?"
She chuckles and adds, "There is nothing more important to us than meeting our customers!" Though her corporate philosophy is to be a good partner to her retail shops — because she knows that their success is her success — she is acutely aware of the need to connect with her market. She smiles and then she's off...because Susan has a lot to get done. While she's waiting for her new headquarters in Alabama to be completed, she's busy developing new yarns and pattern support for her many enthusiastic fans and supporters. Always busy. Always smiling. Always on her way to a new adventure. Susan Moraca is an energy that can't be contained. |
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Riveting DK & WorstedA fantastic eco-friendly yarn, Riveting is constructed from 100% recycled blue jeans fiber in DK and Worsted weights. They have the comfort you'd expect from a pair of well-worn blue jeans. Both DK and Worsted are in 9 colors.
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Sock-a-liciousA superb blend of 70% superwash fine merino wool, 20% nylon and 10% mulberry silk. Use this yarn to make a pair of pampering socks for your hardworking feet, or use it for light and lacy shawls, wraps and stoles. 12 colors.
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Reduce stress and strain on your hands as you knit! The Square Circular with Firm Cable gives knitters an alternative to Kollage’s popular Soft Cable version. A wide range of needle sizes and cable lengths so you’ll find the square circular that is just right! A knitter can never have too many needles. These attractive square aluminum needles are ergonomically designed to reduce stress and strain while you knit. They’re available in a versatile 10" length in size 0-10 U.S. (2-6 mm) at Yarnmarket. Square circular needles with Kollage’s innovative, soft K-Kable that won't kink, kurl or knot! The ergonomically designed square metal needles helps to reduce stress and strain on your hands, like all Kollage Square Needles available at Yarnmarket. High-grade aluminum double point needles with a square shape for less hand fatigue. Be sure to knit a gauge for your project because you may need to go up a needle size to obtain the proper gauge. Available in 5", 6", & 7" lengths in sizes 0 – 3 U.S. (2-3.25mm). |
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Creamy SolidYes, it’s true. You can knit with milk. Creamy yarn is a blend of 80% milk and 20% cotton fibers. A fantastic fingering-weight yarn, it’s perfect for lightweight socks, scarves, and shawls. Available undyed and in 6 beautiful colors.
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IlluminationGlimmering ribbon with soft mohair luxury sets Kollage's Illumination apart. Use this worsted weight mohair blend to create elegant tops for a special occasion. Or try using it with larger needles for a light, airy shawl or wrap. 10 colors in stock.
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Luscious SolidA breathable blend of cotton and nylon with just the right amount elasticity makes this yarn an excellent choice for socks. Each skein has 345 yards, enough for a basic pair of women’s size medium socks. Available in 15 colors.
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PassionPassion from Kollage combines four fabulous yarns for glitz and glamour. Made with multi-colored textures, use it to create dazzling accessories to add a special touch to any outfit. It’s available in 13 colors.
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RadianceRadiance yarn is crafted with stunning long eyelashes, small, soft boucle loops and shimmering, multi-hued ribbons. The silky, whimsical fabric it becomes looks and feels amazing. Choose from 10 glorious colors for clothing and accessories.
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GlistenThis gorgeous blend of 75% alpaca, 20% silk and 5% metallic fiber will jazz up any worsted weight project. It’s affordable luxury paired with a little glitz and glamour. 18 colors for warm and pretty hats, gloves, scarves, tops, sweaters and more.
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CornucopiaYear-round comfort in fabulous, eco-friendly 100% corn. This spectacular woven tape construction fiber is light and airy with strength and durability, and — best of all — it’s machine washable and dryable! Choose from a beautiful palette of 20 colors.
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Hope DK UndyedOrganic cotton, DK-weight yarn grown and processed in the USA. 10% of Hope’s sales are donated to charities across the country. Use it in its natural, undyed state or create your own colors with the Culinary Colors Dye Kit from K1C2.
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AbstractionsDon’t miss this fantastic Yarnmarket exclusive collection! Each of the 6 beautiful colors were inspired by individual paintings by American artists Sharon Will and Sandra Packer. A lovely mohair, wool and nylon blend, perfect for garments and accessories.
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CorntasticThe smooth, soft DK-weight younger cousin of Kollage’s Cornucopia yarn is crafted of 100% renewable corn. Use this yarn to create beautiful textural cardigans, pullovers, socks, bags and more! Machine wash and dry. 14 colors available at Yarmarket.
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While the manufacture of yarns and needles is the primary focus of Kollage, the development of patterns to capitalize on the qualities of their yarns is absolutely critical to their success. Without the right patterns to support the yarns, knitters and crocheters may not know exactly how to utilize them, or could become disappointed with the results. "Our goals in design and pattern creation change according to yarn specifications," says Susan Moraca, "Our ultimate goal is to create something that is timeless and wearable. However, we do get a little funky and fun now and then." She says her goal is always a balance of function and form. She works tirelessly to design and create unique yarns, so she’s adamant in insisting that her yarns also perform well. She says, "There’s nothing worse than knitting a sweater and having it grow two sizes by the end of the day!"
Before any prospective Kollage yarn is approved for production, it’s put through rigorous testing. Huge swatches hang all all over Susan’s office to be measured to determine if, indeed, they will keep their shape over time. Once this discerning designer is convinced the yarn has stood up to her stringent testing, she begins the process of deciding which designs will work best with the yarn’s performance. “I’m fortunate enough to have a team of educated designers to draw from,” she says. “Their knowledge and expertise is an excellent resource to ensure that I get the perfect match of yarns and pattern support.” Among the independent designers who develop patterns for Kollage are Sandi Rosner, Kathy Zimmerman, Judith Durant, and Edie Eckman, each one selected for her specific talents and individual approach to fashion. Susan endeavors to keep her pattern support versatile enough to appeal to knitters and crocheters of all ages, shapes, sizes and expertise. “We have a nice mix of wonderfully creative versatile designers,” says Susan, “and I also really enjoy these talented people on a personal level.”
Sandi Rosner’s Tabitha Top using Riveting yarn is currently very popular with knitters seeking a decidedly country appeal with a fantastic feminine flourish. The A-line tunic-length tank top created in the recycled denim yarn features a scooped neckline with pretty button detail and romantic lace accents. There’s a cute complementary piece called Baby Tabitha for a Mom-and-Daughter lookalike set. Riveting fans are also excited about Kathy Zimmerman’s At The Lake (url to come)top. This irresistible top with set-in sleeves is perfect not only for cool summer evenings, but all year round. The soft recycled denim market is eco-conscious as well as fabulously fashionable. IrishgirlieKnits is a fairly new designer for Kollage, and is making an impact with gorgeous patterns like the Bellingrath shawl made with Kollage Sock-a-licious yarn. Both IrishgirlieKnits and Anne Hanson have recently been added to Kollage’s expanding roster of designers. Not only do they create unique styles, but they’re great bloggers, as well. And many of the designers for the yarn company have worked to promote Kollage yarns and patterns by participating in contests and Knit Alongs. The Four Seasons Wrap by Sandi Rosner, was a Knit Along on Ravelry and is a great cardigan with interesting lines. To make it even more versatile, it can be knit in several different yarns including Kollage Solace. Whichever Kollage fiber is used, the cardi takes on a uniquely different look that any knitter would enjoy adding to her wardrobe.
Another design we think will be popular this autumn is Not Quite a Cape by Sandi Rosner. This cropped cape-like cardigan is perfect for home or office. When we asked Susan what her current favorite is, she exclaimed, "Day at the Beach" by Sandi Rosner is the most comfortable sweater I have ever worn! It’s a great every day sweater but also looks adorable over a little black dress.” When we asked Susan what’s in style for the upcoming fashion season, she told us that shawls and lace garments continue to be popular so she and her team of talented designers will be creating more clever new patterns that show off Kollage yarns to their best advantage, and give you the opportunity to create wonderful, wearable fashions you’ll enjoy for many seasons to come. |
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A basketweave cardigan created with Riveting yarn from Kollage. The soft, durable recycled denim yarn makes this a great addition to your wardrobe. This great cardi can be made in a wide range of sizes, X-Small to 2-XL. |
A cute babydoll top created with Riveting yarn from Kollage. Casual, comfortable and machine washable and dryable! This is a great top for all seasons, worn alone or layered. Sizes 2,4,6 and 8 require only 2 skeins. |
This classic cardigan created with Glisten yarn from Kollage has a relaxed shape and a little bit of sparkle. It’s a great piece to wear for work, going out on the town, or just relaxing at home. You'll wear it every chance you get! |
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Pamper your feet with these lovely little socks! Ribs and cables add a beautiful texture and make them fun to knit! They're created with Sock-a-licious yarn from Kollage, in wonderful superwash fine merino, nylon and silk. |
This is one of those wonderfully versatile sweaters that everyone needs in their wardrobe. The classic cable rib stitch is fun to knit and you’ll love working with Kollage Glisten yarn, a luxurious alpaca/silk/metallic blend. |
This brightly colored hat will bring holiday cheer to anyone who wears it! It’s knit using the lovely Glisten yarn in a wide rib stitch that creates a cozy fit. There’s a festive little pom pom on the top to add a little extra fun to the holly-inspired cap. |
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These sweet, cozy little socks will keep your feet happy and warm. A delicate cable starts at the toe and goes all the way up to the cuff. The cotton/nylon blend is easy to care for and has elasticity for a perfect fit. |
A trendy fitted hat created with Sock-a-licious yarn. The lightweight superwash merino/silk blend makes it a great hat for fall, winter and spring! It’s knit using a 4-row pattern that adds a lovely texture to the hat. |
This shawl is gorgeous! It’s created with Creamy yarn, a milk/cotton blend that’s super soft. Wear it to add a special touch to a simple dress or put it over a tank. 55”wide x 26” long at center back. |
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This stylish cropped pullover is created with the wonderful Riveting yarn from Kollage. The cool, recycled denim makes it comfortable to wear in any season, and a great piece for layering. Add unique buttons for a special touch. |
The lovely blend of cotton and nylon makes these socks cool, comfortable and breathable on your feet. Knit using stockinette stitch for the toe, instep and heel, and a classic chevron pattern for the leg. Fun to knit and a great gift! |
A casual matching hat and fingerless glove set created with Glisten yarn from Kollage. The delightful alpaca/silk/metallic blend offers a luxurious look and feel at an affordable price. You only need 3 skeins to make this coordinating set. |
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The 3/4 length sleeves, interesting neckline and pretty floral accent on the front give this pullover a fresh, fashionable appeal. Knit with soft Riveting, it's sure to become one of your favorite wardrobe pieces or wearing with casual pants or dressed up with a long skirt. |
What little boy doesn't look absolutely adorable in a cabled sweater vest? This manly little style is one that Daddy would love. It features a v-neck and a variety of smart looking cables. It would be a great learning project for a knitter who wants to expand her skills. |
Is there anything more flattering than a soft ruffle to frame the face? You'll look pretty as a picture in this Riveting yarn cardigan that features feminine textured striping and soft, sensual neckline. Great for casual, office wear or dressed up for special events. |
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The dramatic collar with accenting buttons makes this pullover in Kollage Glisten a very fashionable addition to your wardrobe. Shaped to fit your curves, this gorgeous piece also features pretty ribbed, bell-shaped sleeves that match the collar and waistband. |
A simple slip rib pattern stitch gives this cloche and scarf a lot of style. Here's a nice little project to make for yourself this autumn or to give as a gift. It's created with glittering Kollage Glisten yarn, so it will bring out the sparkle in anyone's eyes! |
Cross your heart with Kollage Glisten yarn. A simple stockinette stitch is dressed up with a feminine plunge and wide sleeves that have the same ribbed pattern as the neckline and hem. This versatile piece can warm up a dress or add class to your jeans. |
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Get great savings on
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 You could win a Kollage Yarns Prize Package worth over $100. The package includes the supplies you need to create the Riveting Tessuto Cardigan. The prize includes:
• 5 skeins Kollage Riveting yarn
To enter, send an email with your answer to Kollage@Yarnmarket.com. Make sure the subject is: Spotlight on Kollage. Include in your email the answer to the question: What is Kollage Riveting yarn made from? One entry per person, please. We'll draw a winner from all the correct submissions on October 6, 2011 and announce it in our next issue of Spotlight. Congratulations to Chris Terry of Texas who won our Spotlight on Classic Elite contest in August! |
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Be sure to keep up with the latest Yarnmarket & Yarndex news as it's happening! Contests, promotions, new yarns and behind-the-scenes fun can be found on:    |
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