Episode 019–Happy 1 Year Anniversary! And Special Giveaways, too!

Welcome to Episode 19 of the Misadventures in Knitting Podcast.

Listen to Episode 19 on iTunes!

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NOW Listen to Episode 19 on Stitcher!

You may have noticed that we changed our intro prompt.  Now that we are officially in our second year, our question to you all is:  “how many projects do you have on the needles?”  This includes WIPS, UFOs, and all of your most recent cast ons.  Don’t be shy!  Share with us in our Ravelry thread and we may feature you on an upcoming podcast episode.

Today’s topics include:

• One Year Anniversary Celebration and Special Giveaways!
• Maryland Sheep and Wool Wrap Up!
• Hot off the Needles
• What we are Working on

One Year Celebration and Special Giveaways

To celebrate the conclusion of our first year of podcasting, we have two special giveaways to tell you about.

Giveaway #1: Yarn Set from Wooly Hues

Three Skeins of 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon. Each skein is 467 yards/100 grams.  Country Strong Gradient Set.  $75.00.

To win this BEAUTIFUL yarn set, you must:

1.)  Follow Aleaness on Instagram.  (Aleaness is the dyer of Wooly Hues Yarn)

2.)  Follow Misadventures in Knitting on Instagram.

3.)  Find the photo of the Wooly Hues Yarn on our Instagram page and in our Ravelry Group and answer the question:  “What would you make with this yarn?”  If you answer on both Instagram and Ravelry, you will have two entries.

(A note to Ann:  Thank you SOOO much for the yarn!!!  We love it and really appreciate your generosity.)

Giveaway #2:  Splendid Soles

Splendid Soles book; published by Knit Picks in 2018.  Paperback.  Retails for $29.99.  16 Socks in the collection.

Book was gifted to us by Lori Wagner who has a pattern in the book, the “Textured Lace Socks” pattern.  (Thank you, Lori!)

Tara’s Review:

• 16 patterns for experienced sock knitters.
• All varieties of socks: lace, cables, and mosaics.
• Collection of patterns by independent designers.  Designer emails are included with each pattern for support or questions.
• Brief introductions written by each designer.
• Crisp, clear photography with large photos; many photos are full page.
• Photos are just of socks, nothing else to distract the reader.
• Large, very easy-to-read charts.
• Socks are knitted in a variety of ways, top-down, bottom-up, with DPNs, magic-loop or two-circulars.
• All styles of heels (traditional to short rows).
• Features KnitPicks yarn.
• You can see patterns on Ravelry or on the KnitPicks website.

Ashley’s Review:

• Ashley also likes the large photos.
• Ashley wishes it had a lay-flat binding.  She recommends taking it to a copy shop and having it spiral bound.
• Ashley thought the textured stitch patterns ranged from easy to difficult.

To win this awesome book, you must:

1.)  Follow Knit Picks on Instagram.

2.)  Follow the Misadventures in Knitting Podcast on Instagram.

3.)  Post a picture of your favorite pair of socks that you have knit OR a picture of some sock yarn that you cannot wait to use for a pair of socks.  Be sure to tag us and use #SplendidSolesGiveaway

Both of these contests have a deadline of June 17th!

We will choose a winner and announce on the following episode.

Maryland Sheep and Wool Wrap-Up

Tara mentioned:  Jill Draper Makes Stuff, Heirlooms/Yarn Hygge by Lis Barsuglia-Madsen, and Bartlett Yarns.

 

JDMS Mohonk Minis!

JDMS Kingston

 

Yarn Hygge Merino DK and Mohair

Yarn Hygge Merino DK and Mohair

Yarn Hygge Sock

Yarn Hygge Merino DK and Mohair

Yarn Hygge Sock

Yarn Hygge Merino DK and Mohair

Bartlett Yarns for Apple Cider Donut

Tara was also able to meet some very friendly people, including:

• Trish of the Best Day Ever Podcast
• Liz of the Just One N Podcast
• Mary of Kino Knits

Renee and Tara

Liz, Tara, and Trish

While Tara was getting high on yarn fumes (ha!), Ashley was running around Pittsburgh (literally) with her family.  Congratulations to Ashley on finishing the 1/2 portion of the marathon!  Way to go!  She mentioned the fabric store called Loom and the Pittsburgh Incline.  She had a great weekend.  She thanks KnitReannaKnit for travel advice.

 

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Thick and Thin Shawlette designed by Lis Barsuglia-Madsen.  This pattern uses Yarn Hygge DK Singles and Lace Silk/Mohair.

Ashley finished a pair of socks which she will use for her beginning sock class at Woolworks.  She used Cascade Wave.

 

What We are Working On

Tara has been working on a secret test knit for Lori Wagner, a beautiful crescent shaped lace shawl.  Tara decided to place beads even though the pattern does not specify to do so.  She used A Verb for Keeping Warm Annapurna Cashmere Sport Weight.

Ashley has been working on the Children’s Neck Down Cardigan by Knitting Pure and Simple.  She used Spud and Chloe Sweater.

Ashley is also working on the Impressionists MKAL by Helen Stewart.  She is now on Clue 2 with Nox Yarn.

Finally, Ashley is working on the River Knits Afghan Along.  She is on the May Square, which is highly cabled.  She is using Shepherd’s Worsted for the blanket.

Tara’s son, Leo, finished his very first scarf thanks to the Waldorf School of Baltimore.

Episode 017–Needles, Beads and Mysteries!

Welcome to Episode 17 of the Misadventures in Knitting Podcast.

Listen to Episode 16 on iTunes!

Listen to Episode 16 on PodBean!

Today’s topics include:

• Upcoming Events and General Announcements
• Lykke Needle Review
• What we are Wearing
• Hot Off the Needles
• What we are Working on
• and, Healthy Living with Tara and Ashley

Today’s stash hiding space was shared by TioTweety on Ravelry.  Thanks for participating, Teresa!

Upcoming Events and General Announcements

The Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival will be held May 5th and 6th at the Howard County Fairgrounds.  Tara will attend the festival on Saturday and is hoping to meet listeners at the podcaster meet up in Barn 7/8 at 1:00 PM.  If you are in the Pittsburgh area that same weekend, you can cheer on Ashley, who will run the Pittsburgh 1/2 Marathon!

A shout out to Sally4 for visiting Woolworks!  Thank you to Judy and Mary for participating in our last Google Hang Out!

We are planning a second Knitters Book Club to take place this summer.  More information to come.

Finally, we need your input!  We are planning a future episode that will focus on local yarn shops.  A thread will be created in our Ravelry group asking for your thoughts and opinions.  If you have the time, feel free to participate!

Lykke Needle Review

Lykke needles are very popular so we decided to review them (and thanks for the suggestion, Jackie!).  They are dyed to look like drift wood but are actually birch wood.  A very helpful review can be found at Knitter’s Review, by Clara Parkes.

Ashley says:

• I like how the size of the needle is etched clearly on the side and won’t rub off.
• The cord is stiff for magic loop.
• I like the needle tip which is smooth and has a nice, middle of the road point.
• The advertising on the website is deceiving.

Tara says:

• I like the price point!  More affordable than Addi’s.
• The cord is stiff.  This works well for a hat but I wonder what it would be like for a shawl.
• The needle tip is dark in color, so be aware if using dark yarns or if you are a beginning knitter.

Overall:

• They are worth trying out!

What we are Wearing:

Tara has been wearing the Fancy Cardi by Joji Locatelli.  She used Dragonfly Fibers Pixie in the Espresso Roast colorway.

And because the temperature has been on the cooler side, Tara has also worn the Gather Together Sweater by Joji Locatelli.  She used Plucky Trusty in the Two Hearted colorway.

Ashley has been wearing the Four Seasons Shawl by Alana Dakos.  She used Three Irish Girls Wexford Merino Base.

She has also been wearing La Mer Socks by Sandra Park, knitted by Ashley’s friend, Heather.

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Amulet Shawl by Helen Stewart.  She used Old Maiden Aunt’s Sock Yarn in the Buttermint colorway and beads purchased at Lovelyarns in Baltimore, MD.

Ashley finished her #knittersbookclubkal!  She knit the Ruched Beret by Susan B. Anderson, which is from the Weekend Hats Book.

What we are Working On

Ashley finished sock #1 of the Vintage Fairy Lights pattern by Helen Stewart.

Ashley is nearly finished with the Confluence Shawlette by Sivia Harding.  She is using The Fibre Company Meadow yarn.  She is using Japanese Toho Beads.

Finally, Ashley is working on the Impressionist Mystery Knit Along by Helen Stewart.  Ashley is using Primrose Adelaide but is feeling unsure about her color choices.  Tara is also working on this project and is using the same yarn!  Twinsies!

Tara is also working on the Creatrix Shawl by Laura Nelkin.  She is finding this challenging but fun!  She is using The Fibre Company Meadow and size 6-0 and 8-0 beads.

Healthy Living with Ashley and Tara–Movement

Ashley and Tara talk about the benefits of moving!

Tara mentioned the podcast called The Walk, by Naomi Alderman.  She also read a quote from NPR.  Naomi Alderman also has a free phone app called Zombies, Run.

Ashley is training for the 1/2 portion of the Pittsburgh Marathon.  Ashley uses the Strava App to keep track of her pace and miles.

Episode 016–Stash Talk

Welcome to Episode 16 of the Misadventures in Knitting Podcast.

Listen to Episode 16 on iTunes!

Listen to Episode 16 on PodBean!

Today’s topics include:

•  Come Visit Us
• The Knitters Book Club Wrap Up
• Hot off the Needles
• What we are Working on
• Sad Knitting Tragedies
• and, Cozy Home

Today’s stash hiding space was shared by LWT1 on Ravelry.  This knitter is currently hiding a stash of beautiful yarn in a sweater!  Thanks for sharing with us, Lori!

Come Visit Us

The Charm City Yarn Crawl will take place April 6th-15th.  Come visit Ashley and Tara at Woolworks on Sunday, April 8th from 12-4 PM.  See CharmCityYarnCrawl.com for more information about participating stores, discounts, special prizes, and driving routes.

The Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday May 5th and 6th at the Howard County Fairgrounds.  Tara will attend on Saturday.  A podcaster meetup will take place in the small show ring in Barn 7/8 around 1 o’clock.

The Knitters Book Club Wrap Up

Photo from Clara’s website: claraparkes.com

Over the past three months, we read A Stash of One’s Own by Clara Parkes.  During our second Google Hangout, Clara Parkes joined us for an hour long discussion about her book.  It was a fun night despite some minor hiccups with technology.  Clara, if you are reading this, THANK YOU SO MUCH!  YOU ARE AWESOME!  Learn more about Clara on her website and at Knitters Review!

During the hangout, we talked about books we are currently reading.  Clara was reading Migraine by Oliver Sacks and No Time to Spare by Ursula Le Guin.  Other books mentioned were The Road to Oxiana by Robert Byron, More Home Cooking by Laurie Colwin, and The Power by Naomi Alderman.

The final Google Hangout will take place Friday, April 6th at 8 PM Eastern Standard Time.  See our Ravelry group for more information, including the link.

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Flax sweater by TinCanKnits in the size 8-10.  She used Madeline Tosh Vintage and Jill Draper Hudson in a variety of colors.

Tara finished the Adult S/M Rosewater Beret by TinCanKnits.  She used Woolfolk Tov DK.

Tara finished one Stepping Stone Sock by Clara Parkes, which is a free pattern on Ravelry.  She used Malabrigo Rios.  The single sock is a shop sample at Woolworks.

Ashley finished the March Square (cables) of her River Knits Afghan Along.

What We Are Working On

Tara is working on the Amulet Shawl by Helen Stewart.  She is using Old Maiden Aunt Superwash 4 ply sock yarn in the colorway Buttermint and size 5 triangular beads, which she purchased from Lovelyarns.  Tara is using the Super Floss method to add the beads.  See this video by Laura Nelkin for more information!

Ashley is working on the Vintage Fairy Lights Socks by Helen Stewart.  She is using the Madeline Tosh Twist Light in the Holi Festival Colorway.

Ashley casted on the Easy Peasy Socks for First Timers by Stacey Trock.  She is using Cascade Wave 220 Superwash.

Sad Knitting Tragedies

Ashley lost a special knitting bag, her Addi size 1 needles and her casted on sock in a parking lot . . . WAAHHHH!  😦

Cozy Home

This is a new section for the podcast.  We want to share how we make our own homes cozy!

Tara shared her favorite herbal teas.

• Tulsi Cinnamon Rose by Organic India
• Apple Chai Spice Red Bush Tea by Eastern Shore Tea Company
• Chai Rooibos by Yogi Teas
• Gingerbread Spice by Celestial Seasonings

Ashley talked about the love affair with her CrockPot.  She makes soup, oatmeal, yogurt, and whole chickens in her CrockPot!  She mentioned Jamie Oliver’s Milk Chicken, find the recipe here.

Episode 015–We Have a Winner!

Listen to Episode 15 on iTunes!

Listen to Episode 15 on Pod Bean!

Today’s topics include:

• General Announcements
• Knitting for Children
• Hot Off the Needles
• What We are Working On
• Listener Contribution
• and, New Years Resolution Update

Today’s stash hiding space was shared by HockeyRachel on Ravelry.  Thank you for contributing to our podcast, Rachel!

Listners, please tell us where you store your stash by visiting the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry group where you will find a thread titled, “where do you hide your stash?”  Share your story and you may be featured on an upcoming episode!

General Announcements

As discussed in Episode 14, we promised to give away a skein of Gynx Yarn to one lucky Ravelry Group member.  We used Random Number generator and are pleased to announce Emkubokirs is our lucky winner.  Congratulations, Emilia!  Thank you all for joining the group and thus, participating in the contest.  We now have over 125 members and are thrilled.

The Misadventures in Knitting Podcast is in need of additional ratings on iTunes.  If you have a spare moment, please leave a review.  This will help the podcast become more searchable.  Thank you to everyone who has already done so!

The Misadventures in Knitting Podcast is currently hosting the Knitters Book Club.  We are reading A Stash of One’s Own by Clara Parkes and knitting a project designed by a contributor.  Our second Google Hang Out will take place Friday, March 2nd at 8 PM Easter Standard Time.  Links and more detailed information can be found in the Ravelry forum.  We are sharing pictures of our knitting on Ravelry and Instagram using #KnittersBookClubKAL .

Knitting for Children

One of the themes of A Stash of One’s Own is the parent-child relationship and how yarn can connect the generations.  This got us thinking and today we talked about knitting for children.

Tara’s children have been wearing hand knit sweaters.  River wears Angel in my Tiny Pocket and Leo wears So Faded Pint Size, even though it barely covers his belly button.  Ashley’s son, William, wears hand knit hats and a recently finished pair of socks.  Ashley’s favorite pattern was the Kinsale Sweater by Terri Kruse.

Tara mentions A Bear in a Bunny Suit by Susan B. Anderson.

Ashley recently finished a pair of mismatched Valentine’s Day socks for William using Freckled Whimsy sock yarn in the “Upside Down” color way.

Tara is working on a rainbow Flax sweater for her son, Leo, using Madeline Tosh Vintage and Jill Draper Makes Stuff Hudson.

Ashley and Tara mention Knits for Boys by Kate Oates.

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Magic Toadstool socks by Stone Knits.  The main color was Spun Right Round Turbo Gypsy.

Tara also finished the Vintage Fairy Lights by Helen Stewart and used Hedgehog Fibers Sock in the Zephyr color way.

Ashley finished the Squircle Socks by General Hogbuffer.  She used Claudia’s Hand Painted Addiction and Lollipop Yarns Self Striping.

What We are Working On

The Sock Collections Tara mentioned are:

1.)  The Wanderlust Sock Club by Mina Philip

2.) The Cosy Sock Collection by Mina Philip

3.) The Sock Society by Helen Stewart

Tara casted on the Mistletoe Kisses Sock by Knitting Expat Designs and is using Gynx Self-Striping in the Heartbreaker color.  She is using the Fish Lips Kiss Heel.

Tara is using a Gale’s Art sock blank to knit the Resfeber Socks by Knitting Expat Design.  She is participating in the Knit Your Blanking Sock Blank KAL with the Elizabeth Zimmerman’s Just One N Podcast.

Tara also casted on the Winter Rose Socks by Helen Stewart.  She is using Magpie Fibers Swanky Sock.

Ashley has socks on the needles, as well!  She is knitting a vanilla sock using Yarn Love Juliet and Quaere Fibres self-striping.

Ashley is working on the February square of the River Knits Afghan Along and is using Shepherd’s Worsted yarn.

Listener Contribution

KnitWithAView wrote:  So many of the podcasts I listen to are from the west coast and they are all excited about going to Stitches West.  And, I hear a lot about Rhinebeck.  But, I live in Central Virginia.  Since you’re not too far away, in Baltimore, what can you tell me about knitting or yarn events closer to home?  I’d love to start with something that was more like a day trip.

In the Maryland Region, we have:

1.)  The Homespun Yarn Party

• Sunday, March 18th, 12-5 PM
• Historic Savage Mill in Frederick, MD

2.) Charm City Yarn Crawl

• April 6th-15th
• Various shops in the Baltimore area

3.) Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival

• Saturday May 5th and Sunday May 6th
• Howard County Fair Grounds

4.) The Knot House Pop Up

• Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 4th, 5th and 6th)
• The Knot House in Frederick, MD

5.) Needles Up

• Friday May 4th, 2-6 PM
• 5885 Robert Oliver Place, Room 201, Columbia, MD

6.) Frederick Fiber Festival

• June 2nd and 3rd
• Frederick Fairgrounds

7.) Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival

• November 10-11
• Howard County Fairgrounds

Clara Parkes has collected information about events happening throughout the world here.

New Years Resolutions Update

Tara’s New Year Resolution was to knit from stash and not buy new yarn.  Update:  Tara loves yarn and has broken the “yarn diet” many times.

Ashley’s New Years resolution was to sew more and to build a new sewing table.  Update:  Ashley built the table!  Ashley has sewn more!  Ashley took a Knit Tee class at Domesticity and a Quilted Table Runner Class at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.

Ashley also resolved to become more active.  Update: Ashley signed up for several running races.  She will do the Pittsburgh 1/2 Marathon and the Baltimore B-3 Challenge.

Episode 011-“Favorite Fibery Moments of 2017!”

Click here to listen to Episode 10 on iTunes!

Click here to listen to Episode 10 on Pod Bean!

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Today’s topics include:

*Knit Along News

*What we are Working on

*the Top 17 Trends of 2017, a Countdown to Celebrate Knitting!

*Predictions for 2018

*and, our Favorite Fibery Moments of 2017

Today’s stash hiding space was shared by LongCool on Ravelry.  This raveler’s stash has grown from 1 bin to 4 and from one cabinet to two in her mudroom.  Luckily, her newly adopted mastiff is keeping the territory safe from prying eyes and intruders.  Thank you for sharing your hiding space with us, Jessica!

A few weeks ago, we were able to meet Boston Jen of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast and Mary of Kino Knits over a brunch at R House in Baltimore City.  Jen recently released the Megarow shawl, a top down, asymmetrical crescent-shaped shawl that alternates garter and a simple lace pattern.  Mary released a shawl and hat pattern in her collection Point/Counterpoint Volume 3 with Claire Devine.  We were thrilled to meet these two talented women!

 

Knit Along News

The Knitters Book Club, is scheduled to begin January 1st, 2018.  Over the course of three months, we will read “A Stash of One’s Own” by Clara Parkes and knit a project designed by one of the contributors.  We will chat about the book and gush over everyone’s knitting using Google Hang Out.  Join us for a special New Years Day Cast On Party!  Post a picture of your freshly started project on Instagram using #knittersbookclubkal.  Please see the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry group for complete information, a bundle of potential patterns, and a chat thread.

Tara is considering the Voe Sweater by Gudrun Johnston and/or the Acer Cardigan by Amy Christoffers.  Ashley may cast on the Aestlight Shawl by Gudrun Johnston and/or the Ruche Beret by Susan B. Anderson.

What we are working on:

 

Tara finished the Suprise Party Shawl by Helen Stewart.  She used Primrose Adelaide (single ply/fingering weight) with “Don’t Fear the Reaper” as the main color.

Tara finished a pair of vanilla socks using the Fish Lips Kiss Heel.  She used Lollipop Yarn Quintessential/Gripes base in the “Witches Brew” colorway.

Tara had a boost of sock mojo and casted on two pairs of Christmas socks using a traditional heel flap.  She is using Gynx Yarn in the “Cheers” colorway and West Yorkshire Spinners in the “Holly Berry” colorway.

Ashley finished the 21 Color Slouch by Virginia Sattler-Reimer using a kit by Blue Sky Fibers.  She made a few mods for a better fit.

Ashley is working on a pair of Socks on a Plane by Laura Linneman using Two Sisters Yarn Company’s self-striping in the “Pippi to the Rescue” colorway.

Ashley decided to use her Nox Yarns Advent for the Land of Sweets Cowl by Helen Stewart.

 

Tara is working on Angel in my Tiny Pocket by Melissa Kemmerer using Jill Draper Esopus, which is discontinued.

Top 17 Trends of 2017

17.) The Fringe Field Bag with Pins

16.)  Pullovers!

Andrea Mowry,  Isabell Kraemer and Caitlin Hunter are leading this trend.

15.)  Crochet

The Lost in Time Shawl by Johanna Lindahl and the Virus Shawl by Julia Marquardt are very popular, as are the Attic 24 patterns.  

14.)  Colorwork

Caitlin Hunter’s Sunset Highway, Ninilchik Poncho, Zweig , and Birkin were mentioned. 

Gudrun Johnston and the Bousta Beanie.

13.) Accessible Knitting

Vanilla socks.  Garter stitch shawls.

12.)  Videocasting

 The Grocery Girls and Kristy Glass Knitswere mentioned.

11.)  mKALs

 Everyone has one!

10.) The Me-Made Wardrobe

 Ashley mentioned Made by Rae, Grainline Studio, and Blue Print Sewing.

9.) Indie Dyers

8.)  The Neon to Pastel Color Transition

 La Bien Amiee and Olann were mentioned.

The Panton color of 2018 is Ultra Violet.

7.)  Speckles!

6.)  Brioche

 Lesley Anne Robinson was mentioned.

5.) BATs: Big A** Tassels!

 What the Fade and Ohra Shawl were mentioned.

4.) BAPs:  Big A** Poms!!

 Faux and real fur!

3.) BASs:  Big A** Shawls!!!

 Tara mentioned the larger than life Degreenify by Josh Ryks-Robinsky.

2.) Craftivism

There is a hat for every cause!

 Pussy Hats  and the Come Together Blanket by Kat Coyle were mentioned.

1.) FADES

Thanks Andrea Mowry and Stephen West!

Predictions for 2018:

Tara thinks speckles will continue to be popular through 2018.  She also predicts domestically raised, spun, and dyed wool will grow in popularity and Cormo will be seen more often.

Ashley thinks the designs of Isabell Kraemer will gain even more popularity in 2018.  She also thinks heirloom quality knitting will make a come back, for example the designs of Rowan, Alice Starmore and Norah Gaughan.

 

Favorite Fibery Moments of 2017:

Tara and Ashley agree that starting the podcast will make 2017 memorable.  Ashley is also proud of sewing a dress that fits!

Episode 010-“Everything is Awesome.”

Click here to listen to Episode 10 on iTunes!

Click here to listen to Episode 10 on Pod Bean!

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Today’s stash hiding space was shared by Miss CeliesPants on Instagram.  Thank you for sharing with us, Renee!

A Bunch of Thank Yous

Since November is the month to be thankful, we would like to thank all of you who listen to our podcast.  To Amy, Karen and Brenda, the owners of Woolworks Yarn Shop in Baltimore, MD, we thank you for your continual support.  Woolworks offers a variety of yarns and fibers for every knitting occasion, including Woolfolk, Madeline Tosh, and The Fiber Company.  See woolworksbalt.com for a complete list of classes, knit alongs, and other special events, such as the Jane Spalding Ceramics Trunk Show on December 2nd from 11AM-3PM.

To Brooke of Fully Spun Yarn, we thank you for being our first ever long distance, computer screen-to-computer screen interview.  We cannot wait to get our conversation uploaded for the show.  In the meantime, listeners can check out Brooke’s beautiful yarns at fullyspun.com and see her in person December 2nd and 3rd at the Art Pop Squared Artist’s Market in Frederick, Maryland.  And, you did hear that right, listeners.  The Misadventures in Knitting Podcast will eventually include interviews!

Knit Along News

*Congratulations to the grand prize winners of the Too Much Candy Knit Along, JMazurick for the Autumnal Cowl and LMEColl for the Grand Central Socks.  We used the random number generator to select our Ravelry and Instagram winners.  In total, we had 17 gorgeous entries.  Thank you so much to all who participated!

*Our next Knit Along, The Knitters Book Club, is scheduled to begin in January 2018.  Over the course of three months, we will read “A Stash of One’s Own” by Clara Parkes and knit a project designed by one of the contributors.  We will chat about the book and ooh-and-ahh over everyone’s knitting by using Google Hang Out.  Please see the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry group for complete information and a bundle of potential patterns.

Hot Off the Needles

Ashley finished the Unicorn Hat by Brittany Tyler Simmonds.  Ashley used Rowan Big Wool, Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, and wool roving, which Ashley made into a “fulled” yarn.

Tara finished the 6-12 month Flax Sweater by Tin Can Knits using Cascade 220 Superwash Wave in the “Seattle” colorway.

Tara also finished the Spindrift Shawl by Helen Stewart using Destination Yarns Postcard Base in the Toes in the Sand colorway.

Misadventures

Ashley has been misadventure-free while Tara has a terrible case of startitis/startosis and knitting ADD.  She wants to cast on more projects than is possible to finish!

What We are Working On

Tara is test knitting a sweater for Melissa Kemmerer in a size 6.  The sweater is called “Angel in my Tiny Pocket” and it features a small pocket along the hem with a duplicate stitch angel for the wearer to touch when they need extra energy or love.  Tara is using Jill Draper Esopus fingering weight, which has been discontinued.

Tara started the Amulet Shawl by Helen Stewart using Old Maiden Aunt Superwash Merino 4-ply in the Buttermint Colorway.  She also purchased triangular shaped beads from Lovelyarns to decorate the shawl.

Ashley has been working tirelessly on  the Ninlichik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter using Arranmore Light by the Fibre Company.

Ashley is also working on a pair of socks while watching “Stranger Things”.  She is using the “Upside Down” colorway by the Freckled Whimsy.

Tara is also working on the Surprise Party Shawl by Helen Stewart and the Wagenfeld Sweater by Ankestrick.  Tara continues to feel unsure how her husband will like this colorful sweater.

Imaginary Knitting

Tara is daydreaming about Helen Stewart’s “Land of Sweets” Cowl that is part of the 2017 Knitvent Collection.

Ashley is imaginary knitting her Nox Yarn Advent Mini-Skeins.  Ashley has considered Archer’s Paradox by Sweet Birch Design, Parallel Waves by Julia Marsh, and the Felicitas sweater by Maliha Designs.

Episode 009-“Yarn is my favorite yarn.”

Click here to listen to Episode 9 on iTunes!

Click here to listen to Episode 9 on Pod Bean!

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Today’s stash hiding space was shared by Liz-Knitz on Ravelry.  Thank you for sharing your secret with us, Liz!

General Announcements

*  The Misadventures in Knitting podcast is looking for show sponsorship.  If you are a yarn dyer, designer, in a related business or have a unique product, please email us at misadventuresinknitting@gmail.comif you are interested in advertising on the show.

*  Ashley and Tara want to know, “what do you want to hear about?” Which topics would you like us to discuss on the show?  Ask us your knitting, crochet, or general crafting questions.  With your input, we hope to create a more informative podcast. Please find the thread on the Ravelry group.

* Much appreciation to everyone who has already reviewed our podcast on iTunes.  Reviews and ratings help a podcast become searchable.  If you listen to our podcast, please consider writing a review.  We thank you in advance!

Knit Along News

*The Too Much Candy Knit Along

By the time this episode is published, the Too Much Candy Knit Along will be finished and two lucky knitters will have won two awesome prizes.  Grand prize winners and special category honorees will be named in episode 10 that will air on November 26th.  Thank you to all who participated!

*Future Knit Along to begin in the new year!

–“The Knitter’s Book Club”

–A 3 month knit-along, read along and discussion to begin January and end in March 2018.

–We will read “A Stash of One’s Own” by Clara Parkes and knit a project designed by one of the contributers.

–We plan to host Google Hang Outs on the last Friday of each month.

–A special discussion thread will be added in our Ravelry group.

–We will create a bundle with project ideas if you should feel “stuck”.

–More information will be released with future episodes.  We are so excited and needed to share the news with you right away!

What We are Wearing

Tara has worn the Simee Dimeh shawl by Romi Hill and the Marin Shawl by Ysolda Teague.  Tara’s sons, Leo and River, have worn their Christmas in July sweaters by Tanis Lavallee and So Faded by Andrea Mowry.

Ashley wore Afternoon Tea by Helen Stewart, knit by her friend, Heather.  Ashley wore a vintage Kaffe Fassett sweater dress to the theatre.  This beautiful dress was knit by a customer of Woolworks in Baltimore, MD.  Ashley also wore Ducky Socks.

Imaginary Knitting

Tara is daydreaming about the Damejakkaloppa by Pinneguri.  Tara apologizes for mispronouncing the designer’s name!  (Sorry!)

Ashley is imaginary knitting numerous WIPs!

Hot Off the Needles

Ashley finished Churchmouse Yarn and Tea’s Basic Christmas Stocking with Woolstok yarn.  She finished The Little Pumpkin Hat in Rowan Summerlite DK.  Ashley designed this cute hat!  This time around, she upsized the pattern for a toddler.  If you are interested in these changes, check out the notes on her Ravelry project page.

Tara finished the Exploration Station by Stephen West just in time for the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY.  Tara gifted this shawl to her friend, Lis, that vends at the festival under the name Heirlooms.

What We are Working On

Tara casted on the Surprise Party Shawl by Helen Stewart soon after its release.  She is using Primrose Adelaide.

Also by Helen Stewart, Tara is knitting the Spindrift Shawlette in Destination Yarn’s Postcard base in the Toes in the Sand colorway.

Finally, Tara is knitting the Wagenfeld pullover by Ankestrick using Jill Draper Empire.  She hopes this sweater will be a Christmas gift for her husband.

Ashley is knitting the Children’s Neck Down Cardigan by Knitting Pure and Simple.  She cast on the Unicorn Hat by Brittany Tyler Simmonds in Rowan Big Wool using size 15 needles!

Ashley cast on the Ninilchik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter.  She is using Arranmore Light by the Fibre Company.

Misadventures

Both Tara and Ashley experienced a few misadventures!  Tara purchased several skeins of Domestic Worsted by Magpie Fibers.

Tara also purchased an entire sweater quantity of Periwinkle Sheep’s Bulky base in the Black/Turquoise colorway.

Ashley purchased several skeins of by Magpie Fibers, as well as a Wishmaker Mitt kit.

Ashley purchased a beautiful advent mini-skein set by Nox Yarns.  She is unsure how she will use the yarn, whether it will be for a shawl, sweater or something else entirely.  Suggestions needed!

Episode 008-Misadventures with Lace Knitting

Click Here to Listen to Episode 8 on iTunes!

Click Here to Listen to Episode 8 on Pod Bean!

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Are you interested in sponsoring our podcast?  We would love to hear from you!  Please email us at misadventuresinknitting@gmail.com

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Introduction:

Today’s stash hiding space was shared by Lil Dead Girl on Ravelry.  Thank you for contributing, Alissa!

A special nod  to Boston Jen of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.  We love listening to your inspiring show and we look forward to meeting you in November!

The Too Much Candy Knit Along and Crochet Along!

*began Sept 15 and will run thru November 1st, 2017.

*Knit or crochet something halloween related.

*Share photos in our Ravelry group and/or on Instagram with #toomuchcandyKAL

*Enter to win awesome prizes!  Two Halloween project bags (sewn by the talented Ashley) and two skeins of halloween themed yarn are up for grabs!

*Prizes will be awarded using the random number generator.  One chosen from Instagram and the other from Ravelry.

*US addresses only for prizes.

Handmade Bag by Ashley

Miss Babs on Left and Magnolia Jen on Right

Hot Off the Needles

Tara tested the North Bend Hat by Lori Wagner.  This hat, which features a beautiful cabled panel, will be available for purchase on Ravelry in mid-November.  Lori designed this for A Yarn Less Raveled, a yarn store in Northern California.  Tara knit a size small with YOTH Father in the Poppyseed Colorway.

Tara finished three Barley Hats by Tin Can Knits.  She used this pattern to teach a “Knit Your First Hat” class at Woolworks.  Tara knit a child size (in Madeline Tosh Vintage colorway Glazed Pecan) and two adult small sizes (one in Madeline Tosh Vintage colorway Jasper and the other in Plucky Cachet Small Batch colorway #25).

Ashley finished the Plicate Hat by Hunter Hammersen using Woolfolk SNO.  Ashley found this hat to be very enjoyable and recommends the pattern and the yarn, which is incredibly soft.  Ashley warns that a swatch is necessary for success with this pattern!  Her hat will be on display at Woolworks in Baltimore, MD.

What We are Working On

Ashley is knitting the Basic Christmas Stocking by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas.  She is using Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok, one of her favorites, and this will be a shop sample for Woolworks.

Ashley is working on the Knitting Pure and Simple Children’s Neck Down Cardigan #249.

Lastly, Ashley is crocheting Outlander by Lily Go.  Ashley is learning to read a crochet chart and she finds this pattern to be very clear.  She is using Spirit Trail Fibers Sunna that she purchased at Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival.  She is using beads from Jubili Beads and Yarn in Collingswood, NJ.

In this photo, you can see the Voolenvine in the background and the Spirit Trail Fibers in the front. Ashley has decided to use the Spirit Trail Fibers for this pattern.

Tara is teaching a “Knit Your First Mitten” class at Woolworks and was inspired by The World’s Simplest Mitten pattern by Tin Can Knits.  She is making a Christmas garland using a modified infant size with Jill Draper Hudson.  She is also knitting a Child size with Cascade 220 Sport in the Punk Colorway for her son River and the Adult Small size for her son Leo using the Rainbow colorway.  (Note, this picture was taken one week after recording.)

Tara is working on the Exploration Station by Stephen West and is nearing the end!  She had a “knitting high-five!” moment when she started the final section and had exactly the number of stitches required, 455!  Yeah!  (Note, these photos are of the finished object and were taken one week after recording.)

Finally, Tara is knitting a pair of basic socks with the Fish Lips Kiss Heel for the #TooMuchCandyKAL.  She is using Lollipop Yarn Quintessential Base in the Witch Craft Colorway.

Sad Knitting Tragedies

Tara gave an update on the moth outbreak in her finished sweater bin.  She washed and reblocked five sweaters and multiple accessories.  She hopes the moths find somewhere else to live.

Totally Tubular Techniques (and not just the cast-on)!

Tara and Ashley have created a new rotating topic for the podcast called “Totally Tubular Techniques”.  Our goal for this section is to make challenging knitting techniques more accessible for all.  We hope to inspire confidence in our listeners.  Today, our topic is lace knitting but we will eventually cover other advanced techniques, such as colorwork, sweater knitting and brioche (to name a few).  Please contribute to our discussion by visiting the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry Group.  You may have ideas that we did not address.  We would love to hear from you!

Early on, Ashley and Tara struggled with lace knitting and found it very difficult.  They both tried the Ishbel Shawl by Ysolda Teague and initially could not complete it.  So, they warmed up to lace by trying other patterns first.  Tara knit the Multnomah by Kate Ray and the Traveling Woman by Liz Abinante.  Ashley adventured into lace by completing the Monkey Sock and the Pomatomus Sock by Cookie A.  She also knit the Twisting Ladders Hat by Corinna Rogers.  Ashley’s first charted lace pattern was 198 Yards of Heaven by Christy Verity.

For success with lace, Tara and Ashley recommend you:

• Print the pattern and use a hard copy vs. a smart phone or computer screen.
• Familiarize yourself  by skimming through the pattern before casting on.
• Read through the completed projects on Ravelry to see if anyone offered tips or advice in the summary.
• Become “friends” with the chart.  Charts are actually quite easy to read once you understand how they work.  In general, you will need to:
  • Start from the bottom right hand corner and read right to left (opposite of how we normally read a book).
  • Pay close attention to the stitch symbols and read the glossary.
  • Learn about new-to-you stitches on YouTube by doing a quick search.
• Use the following knitting notions
  • highlighter tape (to keep track of where you are in the chart and the pattern)
  • stitch markers (to place in between each pattern repeat)
• Experiment with sharp needle tips.
• Start simple and then work your way into more complicated designs.
  • During the podcast, Ashley and Tara mentioned the following patterns:
    • Ara by Andrea Mowry
    • Spindrift Shawl by Helen Stewart
    • Hedera by Cookie A
    • Clover Honey Shawlette by Hannah Six

Sew, We have Another Lover

Tara is feeling challenged by her new hobby of sewing.  She is concerned about how to finish and care for her projects, such as the Farrow Dress, the Lark Tee, and the Willow Tank by Grainline Studio.

Ashley made the Grab Bag by All People Quilt, a Japanese style dumpling bag.  This pattern is free if you sign up on the website.  Ashley is giving the bag away as part of the #toomuchcandykal!  See photo above.

Ashley and her son, William, made the “Roll-it-up!” pillowcase together!  This pattern is also from All People Quilt.  William is incredibly proud of his first sewing experience!

Ashley finished the Cleo Skirt, a Made by Rae pattern.  Ashley participated in a sew-along with our awesome local fabric shop, Domesticity.

Lastly, Ashley finished Butterick B6453, a princess seamed dress.  Ashley chose a cute black-and-white polka dot fabric for the project.  This dress has a zipper and pockets.  She put in a lining and hand-stitched the hem!  Wow!