AUTHOR: Monica Lee TITLE: La Droguerie DATE: 8:05 AM ----- BODY:

So on my most recent trip to Paris I finally went to the famous yarn and notions store La Droguerie. (here is a better link than the stores site in French, do make sure it's open before you go) I was intimidated after I had read up on it with claims the ordering the yarn was difficult and they were miffed speaking English to you (you American, you!) But it was a fun experience, I speak no French and the sales people helped me, although I did keep my order simple. One of the flight attendants who spoke French said she does not like it there at all. After hearing her story I figured out that, being rather typical French they want to help you figure out what you need for a project if they think you are making a bad purchase that get upset. When I told them I wanted to make a scarf out fo the mohair they told me how much and how many to cast on...I kinda knew already this but nodded politely. (I had the pilots do higher metric math for me before I arrived) It does help to understand that they weigh the yarn and you have to stand in line to get someone to get it for you. The real point tof this store is the notions, the line was very long and even though the process seemed daunting the products where terrific...they fetch everything for you..no self service! The notions seemed worth it...wool felted rick rack, velvet flowers. I would go again but I wouldn't drag someone with me, I think I was in there alot longer that I realized. Anny Blatt this is a good site with directions) which is called Boutique Pelote, has a better yarn selection and is more affordable. The yarn was nice at La Droguerie, it was wool, and angora etc. But it is all so fine, they must do eveything on small needles. Please, this American girl needs some quick knits! Both are good neighborhoods, I particullary liked the restaurant at the end of Anny Blatts street, almost a tappas bar, if you are a bit tired of Bistros. There was a wonderful bead shop in the Anny Blatt neighborhood but it was closed at 6pm. This (pic) is what I purchsed this time, kid mohair in listick pink and cranberry red I am going to mix them for a scarf. This mohair is going to be no fun to get in a ball, is it bad form to take it to my LYS and ask them to do it on their machine? I do take lessons there. And the green is wool and angora the thickest weight I could find and I will make that a scarf for Tom. So I have purchased 3 scarfs worth and 2 sweaters worth of yarns..not to mention the felted bag I want to knit and skull caps for my boys. ha! And today I have to immerse myself in art, I am behind a bit. Yikes!

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