Every year in February an event occurs on the West coast which draws hundreds of eager fans. No, it's not spring training. STITCHES WEST 2011 will be held at the Santa Clara Convention Center (off Highway 101, exit Great America Parkway) on February 18th - 20th. The hours are as follows: February 18th (10-6); February 19th (10-6); and February 20th (10-4). During those days, the convention center is filled with a dazzling array of yarns, patterns, accessories such as buttons, and practical items--needles, pins, etc. Even though I don't knit, I love to visit and peruse the aisles, to see the beautiful displays of sweaters, scarves, and even socks, that others have made. Women and, yes, a few men, come from all over the country to see the latest thing in the knitting world. A small admission fee is charged, and there are free sessions for learning how to knit, as well as more advanced sessions (with fees) for those seeking to improve their skills in knitting or crocheting.

Several of the San José Public Library branches have knitting classes, and King Library has a class every Thursday afternoon, on the third floor.