By Cate Conniff-Dobrich

A cacophony of color greets visitors to Muse Napa Valley, a welcoming store and studio that beckons to contemporary knitters looking for the latest in hand-crafted and imported fibers. Skeins, balls and tufts of silk, wool, cotton and fanciful novelty yarns provide an unlimited palate for this hot, fashion-savvy pastime that is attracting not only a younger female crowd, but also men and children.

“I’ve been knitting for over 20 years,” notes Michele Laurence, proprietress of Muse Napa Valley, “and the number one difference between the old-fashioned approach and what contemporary knitters are able to tap into is the quality of yarns and the sophistication of patterns. With the explosion of multi-hued and textured fibers, it is no longer necessary to be a highly technical knitter in order to create beautiful pieces.”

Muse Napa Valley offers many fiber arts classes, including needlepoint. A favorite is the free Tuesday evening “Sit and Stitch” that gives people a chance to share ideas, get help on projects, sip tea or wine, and slip into a cozy dose of conversation. Gift certificates for products and classes are also available.

Muse Napa Valley, 1400 Oak St., St. Helena, CA (707) 967.9500