Just look at this wonderful photo:

That adorable, delighted face on the right belongs to Judy, our Knitting Daily Yarn Spree First Prize Winner.
The lovely smile on the left belongs to Caryn, the manager of The Whole
Nine Yarns, Judy's local yarn shop. I believe that bit of paper being
clutched to in Judy's left hand is her winning gift certificate.
(Caryn, let us know if you need us to print you a replacement
certificate, as it looks like Judy might not want to let that one go.)
Judy, your joy at winning has captured our hearts here in the
Knitting Daily offices. We are all so happy for you, and we send you
our warmest congratulations on being our top prize winner!
Judy's Local Yarn Shop
The Whole Nine Yarns,
owned by Debi Light, is located in Woodstock, Georgia, 30 miles north
of Atlanta. They offer a large variety of the most luxurious and new
yarns, accessories and fibers for knitters, crocheters, spinners and
rug hookers. The shop provides an inviting and cheerful atmosphere
where novice and master knitter alike are welcome and encouraged in
their craft. Everyone there is always looking for new inspiration and
fresh ideas, so you’ll find a great assortment of classes offered each
month in everything from learn to knit to garment creation to fun
accessories.

New technique classes are always a hit with their customers. Tuesdays
are busy days at The Whole Nine Yarns with the Sit & Stitch group
in the morning and Knit Night later that evening. Their dear customer,
Judy, the Knitting Daily Yarn Spree First Place Winner, is a regular
member of the Sit & Stitch group.
Everyone raise their needles and hooks in a salute to Judy and the good folks at The Whole Nine Yarns!
OK, Judy, Linda, and Gabriel: Time to get shopping! Have fun, and
don't forget to send us a photo with your new stash enhancements.
Notes on The Ultimate Gift: Suggested Yarn Substitution

The Ultimate Gift sweater
Many of you have written to let us know that the yarn called for in The Ultimate Gift sweater is not easily obtainable. I
wrote to the good folks at Tahki Stacy Charles, who make Filatura di
Crosa Cashmere, and asked them if they could recommend a nice
substitute yarn. Here is their kind and helpful reply:
If your readers are interested in making the sweater with the FDC Cashmere
listed in the pattern, it is still available by special order. The yarn is
not featured on our website, but we can provide pricing and order
information by writing or calling the contact information given below.
If they would like to make the garment in a more cost-effective yarn, we suggest Filatura Di Crosa Zara
(machine washable merino wool), which has a similar gauge and
appearance. Zara is 137 yds per 50g ball and gauges 22 sts on #6
needles.
Tahki Stacy Charles Inc.
70-30 80th Street, Building 36
Ridgewood, NY 11385
718-326-3344
Thank you, Tahki folks! This info has been added to the pattern detail page.

Sandi Wiseheart is the editor of Knitting Daily.
What's on Sandi's needles? The Gathered Pullover, front cable
nearly done. A very badly grafted hood on my husband's hoodie that
might need some Knitting Daily magic. And the Secret Knitting Daily
project continueth...