Stitching Friendships With the Knitting Knitch

Every Thursday afternoon, a knitting club known as the “Knitting Knitch” meets at the Cedar Grove Public Library. The club, created in 2005, is made up of 20-25 women from Cedar Grove, Verona and neighboring towns, who gather to knit, socialize and express their artistic sides.

The Knitting Knitch began as way for knit lovers to improve their skills and meet new people in the process.

“It gave us an opportunity to knit and form friendships,” said Liz Royce, a non-stop knitter.

While the Knitting Knitch has no official president, its members enjoy meeting each week to help one another with different projects. Together, they knit, crochet, needlepoint, embroider, etc.

Although most members have been knitting since childhood, the Knitting Knitch is open to all, including those who have never knitted before.

“A lot of people came here not knowing how to knit and we taught them,” said Sandy Defilippo, an expert knitter.

For those who are amateurs, the library supplies the club with various books and DVD’s to help learn the proper knitting techniques.

Val Hodgetts, who has been a part of the club since its inauguration, says Knitting Knitch has expanded her knitting abilities.

“I learned how to crochet here,” she said.

Over the years, the group has completed all kinds of projects including blankets, hats, scarves, among other items.  

“I am most proud of the long table cloth that I made here,” Elena Ruffo said, smiling. 

Longtime knitter Marie Derogatis modestly made her very own purse, while Libby Schwartz is amazed by everything that she has accomplished at the Knitting Knitch.

“I am fascinated by everything that I have done,” Schwartz said. “From crochet to knit projects, everything!” 

All in all, the women thank the Cedar Grove Library for allowing the opportunity to enjoy this hobby with friends.

“The library was very welcoming to us,” said Royce.

On July 21 at 1 p.m., the clan will be part of the world wide, “Knit in Public” day. All ages and levels of knitters are welcome to attend.

“Anyone can join from any town,” said Ruffo. “Each one of us is bringing food and our finished products to share with everyone.”