Loop … A Cautionary Tale

A Julie Arkell figure.  The first I've seen 'in the flesh'.

Oh beautiful cardigan.  My wardrobe needs you.

That outfit, right there.  Oh yes.

Flowers AND yarn?  Really?  Be still my beating heart!

Misti Baby Alpaca.  Like clouds from heaven.

If I am ever lucky enough to own a yarn shop, I should like it to be exactly like Loop in London.

If you ever get the opportunity to visit, I promise it is extremely well worth it.  I would, however, suggest that you exercise the following cautionary measures ...

♥  Don't go on a Monday.  It's the only day the shop doesn't open.

♥  Use public transport to get there.  It's a very short walk from the Angel at Islington underground station.  Do not, under any circumstances, turn up in a car with a roomy boot or, worse, a van or lorry.  Knowing that you will have to carry your purchases along the streets of London and through thronging crowds will help deter you from buying too much.

♥  Browse the website and write a shopping list before you go.  Believe me, on crossing the threshold, your mind will go blank.  It will then take off like a rocket and you'll suddenly be overcome with the need for absolutely EVERYTHING.  And when I say 'need', I mean really need, like your life depends on it!

♥  Have a thorough browse and then LEAVE the shop.  Seriously.  Go and have a cup of coffee and a little 'time out'.  Perhaps enlist a shopping buddy who is bigger and stronger than you and have them physically drag you out if needs be.  Allow your heart rate to return to normal and your mind to clear before you venture back.

♥  Familiarise yourself with Madeline Tosh yarns BEFORE you go to Loop.  If you don't, the positive kaleidoscope of colours will render you incapable of making any rational decisions.  Not only is their founder, Amy Hendrix, a colour genius but I have a strong suspicion that she sprinkles each and every skein with magical 'wanties' dust.

♥  Familiarise yourself with the feel of baby alpaca BEFORE you go to Loop.  (Preferably Misti Baby Alpaca Chunky.)  The temptation to grab an armful, hurl it onto the floor and writhe around on it is almost too much to bear.

♥  Take only the money you can afford to spend.  A credit card with leeway is a definite no-no.  A small photo of your children/partner/pet in your purse (preferably looking peckish) will act as a handy reminder that they will actually need feeding for the weeks ahead.

♥  Ask a non-yarny type to accompany you and instruct them to whisper sensible and rational thoughts in your ear as you look around.

Just saying …!

xxx