Knitting: Destinations Sonoma

Our Special Guest Speaker, Debbie Macomber

Debbie Macomber will be giving the keynote address on Saturday evening.

Debbie Macomber is a New York Times best selling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent more than 990 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.

Twelve of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2017, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publications include If Not for You (March), Any Dream Will Do (August), and Merry and Bright (October). Macomber has also published two best selling cookbooks, an adult coloring book, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

Five Christmas-themed books by Macomber, widely celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas” have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the best selling Cedar Cove Series, which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.

Macomber serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie lives in Port Orchard, Washington, the town that inspired the Cedar Cove series, with her husband Wayne.

Nicky Epstein

Popular knitwear designer Nicky Epstein has gained worldwide recognition for her abundant creativity, groundbreaking sense of style, and informative workshops. She has authored numerous books, including Knit a Square, Create a Cuddly CreatureCover Up with Nicky Epstein, Nicky Epstein’s Crocheted Flowers, Nicky Epstein’s Knitted Flowers, Knitting Never Felt Better, Knitting Beyond the Edge, Knitting Over the Edge, Knitting on the Edge and Knits for Barbie™ Doll. Her work has appeared in numerous knitting publications, on television, and at art exhibitions. She currently resides in New York City with her husband Howard.

Nicky Epstein's Workshops

Make a Square, Create a Cuddly Creature

With just one square, you can make an emtire menagerie of animals. Nicky Epstein’s latest book, Knit a Square, Create a Cuddly Creature, features dozens of cute, cuddly toys.

You won’t believe the possibilities from such a simple beginning.

Technique Requirements: Knit/purl; cast on/bind off; increase/decrease

Homework: Bring a square at least 10" x 10", in any color and any stitch pattern, except lace. If you have a copy of Knit a Square, Create a Cuddly Creature, you can make and bring one of those squares.

Supplies to Bring: Your finished square, additional yarn, appropriate size needles, tapestry needles, pins, scissors and small amount of contrasting colors for the eyes and mouth. Polyfill will be supplied. A copy of Knit a Square, Create a Cuddly Creature will be provided.