The Silver Canvas Celebrates 30 Years

With empty storefronts popping up throughout the Village of Larchmont, Monday night's party marking the Silver Canvas' 30th anniversary at  Anna Maria's Restaurant was indeed a reason to celebrate – and celebrate they did!

More than 30 women – each wearing something created under the skilled tutelage of owner Alice Giunta – came to celebrate, swap knitting stories and show their appreciation for Giunta's patience and talent.

"When I met Alice, I found a real artisan," said Mary-Ann Aronstein, who takes classes with Giunta [and it's always just Giunta] at New Rochelle High School. "She just looks at a piece and knows what to do."

Naomi Kaplan, who was one of Giunta's very first customers 30 years ago, has knit garments for her children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren, all from yarn purchased at The Silver Canvas. "She's an institution," Kaplan said.

Jessie Rednitsky said she was thrilled to find a knitting store in Larchmont when she came to work in the Village five years ago. "I went in and I never went out," Rednitsky said. "She has the patience of a saint."

Debrah Engstrom, who is at the store helping Giunta every Saturday and many afternoons as well, began "working" for Giunta while she was working for someone else in New Rochelle. Only nine at the time, she is as dedicated to Alice as the rest of the customers.

There were scarves worn by newcomers and elaborate sweaters and dresses worn by pros, each more beautiful and lovingly crafted than the next. But the garment that brought the most admiration was a rust-colored sweater vest, orange ruffle at the neckline, made and modeled by Hope Surpris.

Throughout the evening, Giunta enthusiastically greeted each knitter, reminiscing with each about the garment they were wearing and graciously thanking them for coming.

Today, she's back at work. As always, you'll find her surrounded by a circle of loyal customers and friends at The Silver Canvas, 12 Chatsworth Ave., Larchmont.

Editor's Note: Emily Grotta, a knitter since age 5, has been a customer at The Silver Canvas for as long as she's lived in Larchmont.