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!

Listen to Episode 19 on PodBean!

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 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!

Episode 007-Knit Along With Us!

Listen to the full seventh Episode!

Click here to listen on iTunes!

Click here to listen on PodBean!

Introduction

Today’s stash hiding space was shared MarySK on Ravelry.  Thank you, Mary!

General Announcements

1. Please share where you “store” your stash in our Ravelry group for a chance to be featured on an upcoming episode.  We are out of spaces and need your help!
2. Our podcast will continue to air once every three weeks.  Our goal is to have a bi-weekly podcast beginning in January
3. Knit-Along/Crochet-Along Announcement!

• First Knit Along!  #TooMuchCandyKAL
• September 15- November 1st  (that means it is happening right now!)
• Knit something Halloween related.
• Sign up and share photos in the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry Group and on Instagram with the hashtag TooMuchCandyKAL
• Prizes will be awarded! 1 drawing via Ravelry and 1 drawing via Instagram using the random number generator.
• Prizes will include a handmade project bag and halloween themed hand dyed yarn!
• Only US addresses for prizes.

Imaginary Knitting

Tara’s imaginary knitting is the World’s Simplest Mittens by Tin Can Knits.  She will use this pattern for a class at Woolworks.  She wants to make a garland of mittens for the 12 days of Christmas and has Jill Draper Hudson, Neighborhood Fiber Company Studio Worsted, and Madeline Tosh Vintage scraps set aside

Ashley wants to make the Wishmaker Mitts by Erica Heussler and the Bobble Cowl by Joji Locatelli.  She also has an imaginary project that she think would be better classified as a Sad Knitting Tragedy!

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Caragh Sweater by Laura Nelkin.  The sweater is knit side-to-side, has a boxy fit, side cable panels, and an optional cabled cowl.  Tara tested this pattern and found it to be clearly written and interesting to knit.  Here is a link to Tara’s project page.

 

What We Are Working On

Ashley is working on the Brighton Plaid by Eclectic Gipsyland.  She feels a break is needed because of the shift in weather.

Ashley swatched for the Campside Cardigan.

Ashley started the Festive Sheep Ornament by Jennifer Dickerson, which is a free crochet pattern on Ravelry.  She was inspired by Aquilla da Hun, of the Lefty Knitter Podcast. She finished all of the pieces and just needs to sew them together.

Finally, Ashley has joined the underarms of the Children’s Neck Down Cardigan.

Tara is knitting the Exploration Station by Stephen West using Yarn Hygge by Lis Barsuglia-Madsen.

Tara is knitting the Barley Hat by Tin Can Knits for an upcoming class at Woolworks.  She is using  Madeline Tosh Vintage.

Misadventures

Tara purchased the new Chirstmas colorway by Gynx Yarn!  “Cheers” is a green self-striping sock yarn with different colors representing holiday beverages.

Ashley loves themes and self-striping yarn!  Freckled Whimsy had a Stranger Things themed self-striping yarn update and Ashley was able to snag a skein!

Ashley also purchased a 2 ply BFL yarn from Brooke of Fully Spun, who recently had a trunk show at Woolworks.  This yarn has a hand-spun look.

Sad Knitting Tragedies

Moths found their way into Tara’s finished sweaters!  Oh no!  Her plan is to wash, block, store in plastic baggies, and expose to both cold and heat to prevent further contamination.

Ashley has a serious case of startosis and has spent many evenings winding yarn!  She wound yarn for the Koi Pond Shawl by Casapinka but has not yet cast on.  The yarn looks at her every night, waiting.

Ashley cast on the Whitman Hat with Woolfolk SNO but found this yarn was not a good match for the pattern.

Question of the Day

Q:  “How do you become a test-knitter?”

A:  When a designer has an item to be tested, they will often ask for help on Instagram or in their Ravelry group.  “Testing Pool” and “Free Pattern Testers” are two Ravelry groups specifically for designers to find testers.  Designers will often post a sneak-peak picture, a supply list, a deadline and a questionairre about the pattern.  Designers like to see that you take pictures of your finished objects and share on Ravelry and Instagram.  As you work through the pattern, you update the designer on your progress and if there are any errors or concerns about the pattern.  Some designers encourage a lot of chatter too, which is always fun.  Testing is generally unpaid and done for the love of knitting and the desire to support a particular designer.

 

Episode 006–Sew, We Have Another Lover!

Listen to the full sixth episode!

Click here to listen on iTunes!

Click here to listen on Pod Bean!

*** Please note, because Tara and Ashley are sewing more, our future episodes will include a separate section dedicated to sewing toward the end of the episode.

Introduction

This week’s stash hiding spot was contrubuted by therowantree on Ravelry.  Thank you for your participation, Heather!  Listeners, please visit our Ravelry group and share your stash hiding space with us.  We will reveal one secret per episode!  Shhh!

A special shout out to Algebrina of the “Just One N” videocast.  Thank you for visiting Woolworks and introducing yourself.  It was nice to meet you!

The Too Much Candy Knit Along/Crochet Along

• September 15-November 1st
• Knit or crochet something Halloween related.  (A bundle has been created in our Ravelry Group.)
• Sign up and share photos in the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry Group and on Instagram with the hashtag #TooMuchCandyKAL
• Two prizes will be awarded using Random Number Generator.  One drawing via Ravelry and one via Instagram.
• US addresses only for prizes.

Tara hopes to knit the Dwarven Battle Bonnet 2 by Sally Pointer of Wicked Woolens.

Ashley will knit Little Pumpkin designed by Ashley, herself!

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Transitus Hat by Laura Nelkin.  She used Plucky Scholar in the Gizmo colorway.  She likes this hat so much that she started another!

Ashley finished the Watercolor Heart Pillow by Jodi Rice.  She used Noro Silk Garden and Rowan Kid Classic.  Ashley will teach an intarsia class at Woolworks using this design.

Ashley has the sewing bug.  Seven years ago she started a mini-quilt and she finally finished and framed it!

Ashley loves foundation paper piecing.  She completed the “Truth” square by HappySewLucky on Etsy.

What We Are Working On:

Tara also caught the sewing bug!  Because Tara is a sewing newbie, she signed up for the Garment Construction Series at Domesticity, a new fabric store in Baltimore.  Domesticity offers a variety of classes for novice to experienced sewers.  The teachers and owner of the shop are phenomenal!  If you are in the Baltimore area, you should check this place out!

Tara is making the Shirt Number 1 by Sonya Philip of 100 Acts of Sewing.

Tara is making the Willow Tank Dress by Grain Line Studio.  She is taking a class with Renee Samuels, AKA Miss Celie’s Pants.

Tara has also completed several zippered pouches.

Leo (left) and River (right) with their zippered bags.

As far as knitting goes, Tara is testing the Caragh Sweater by Laura Nelkin.  This sweater will be published on Ravelry in mid-September.  Tara is using Arranmore Light in the Narin colorway by the Fibre Company.

Ashley is working on the Pink Poodle Scarf from Morehouse Designs.  She is using Finley Fingering by Three Irish Girls.

Ashley and the Pink Poodle Scarf.

Ashley is chugging along on the Brighton Plaid blanket.

Ashley started Knitting Pure and Simple’s Children’s Neck Down Cardigan for her son, William.  She is using Spud and Chloe Sweater in the Manatee (dark blue) and Lake (bright aqua) colorways.  She is knitting the largest size.

Ashley hopes to cast on the Campside Cardigan by Alicia Plummer.  She will use a DK Madeline Tosh.

Sad Knitting Tragedies:

Tara had to frog a good portion of the Caragh Sweater because she distrusted her swatch and chose the wrong needle.

Misadventures:

Tara purchased one skien from Destination Yarns in the Postcard Base, colorway: Toes in the Sand.

Ashley destashed 1/4 of her yarn!  Wow!  She then bought Nox Yarn Advent Calendar.

Old Bay on Everything:

Ashley and Tara visited the Baltimore Farmer’s Market together.

William and Old Bay Cheddar Cheese!

Episode 005-As one Stashes, the Other Destashes

Listen to the full fifth episode!

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Where Do You Hide Your Stash?

This week’s stash hiding spot was shared by Mrs. ScubaFish on Ravelry, who knows how to turn a dropped ceiling into a secret yarn bunker!  Mrs. ScubaFish, we found your knowledge of drop ceilings to be absolutely hilarious!  Thank you for contributing to our podcast!

Listeners, please tell us where you hide your stash in the Misadventures in Knitting Ravelry group!  We may share your secret in an upcoming episode!

A Special Announcement

We are hosting our first ever knit-along, the Too Much Candy KAL!  The KAL will run from September 15th-November 1st.  The only rule is that you knit something Halloween related.  We will create a “bundle” in our Ravelry group to help generate ideas if you are feeling stuck.  “Double dipping” is allowed!  Please share progress and finished objects photos in our Ravelry Group and on Instagram using the hashtag, #TooMuchCandyKAL.  Prizes will be awarded!

Hot Off the Needles

Tara finished the Fluid Slouchy Beanie by Karen MaCall.  She used Knitty and Color’s Dubstep DK in the Supernova colorway.  This hat features a double brim and a nice slouchy fit.

Tara completed the Gearhart Hat by Lori Wagner using Neighborhood Fiber Company’s Subte Worsted (discontinued) in the Kalorama Circle colorway.  The seed stitch diamond pattern is reversible and can be worn inside out.

Tara finished the Kobuk Hat by Caitlin Hunter.  She held two strands of yarn together: Hedgehog Fiber’s DK in the Salty Tales colorway and Shibui Silk Cloud in the Tar Colorway, giving it a soft halo.  Bobbles decorate this hat.

Finally, Tara finished the Marin Shawl by Ysolda Teague.  This shawlette is knit side-to-side and features garter stitch and a unique cabled border that imitates the look of bow ties.  She used Jill Draper Makes Stuff Hoosic (discontinued) in the Raspberry Beret colorway.

Ashley has been very busy with home improvements.  Knitting had to take the back seat while she painted her entire first floor!

What We Are Working On

Ashley is chugging along on her Brighton Plaid crochet blanket by Eclectic Gipsyland. She is using Madeline Tosh Light Unicorn Tails and Neighborhood Fiber Company Rustic Fingering.   Ashley is also doing some finishing for customers at Woolworks.

Ashley took a Foundation Paper Piecing class at Domesticity Studio, our local fabric store.  She made a quilt square designed by Happy Sew Lucky on Etsy.  The quilt square features two birds in flight with the word “HOPE” between them.  This is Ashely’s new favorite thing!

Tara is working on the Exploration Station shawl by Stephen West.  She ran into trouble with the brioche section and after months of questioning, decided to rip back and redo it.  Now the shawl is up and running again!  Tara is using the Merino-Silk-Yak (60-20-20 blend from Yarn Hygge, aka Scandinavian Weave and Knit.  The finished shawl will be used as a display item at fiber festivals.

A few weeks ago, Tara took a beginning soap making class at Soap Studio Brookside in Binghamton, New York.  The class was a lot of fun and Tara hopes to continue soap making at home.  For Christmas gifts this year, Tara will give handmade soap and washcloths to her friends and family.  Tara is following the Picot-Edge Washcloth pattern by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas.

Misadventures

Tara visited Lis Barsuglia-Madsen of Yarn Hygge and Scandinavian Weave and Knit at a craft fair in Blue Mountain Lake, New York.  She purchased a beautiful hand-woven purse and enough yarn to create two Thick and Thin Shawlettes designed by Lis herself.  Tara chose a single ply merino DK weight and a Brushed Kid Mohair Silk laceweight for the shawl.

Tara took a trip to Adirondack Yarns in Lake Placid.  She bought a sweater quantity of Sprited Fibers Fingering in the Licorice colorway and a gradient set of Koigu to make the “Free Your Fade” Shawl by Andrea Mowry.  Tara had a lot of fun visiting the shop and chatting with the owner, Sue.

Ashley had much different misadventures!  Ashley is continuing her yarn diet and plans to destash some her skeins, although it is hard to make the break.

Ashley is participating in the Stash Dash challenge.  Currently, she has finished around 1200 meters.

Ep 002- How the (Mis)Adventures Began

Ep 002 – How the (Mis)Adventures Began

Listen to the full second episode!

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What we are Working On:

Tara finished the All Ways Cowl by Laura Nelkin, which was the September shipment for the Lola’s Choice Club.  Yarn is Mrs. Crosby Train Case in the Toucan Colorway.

Ashley finished the Susan B. Anderson Smooth Operator Socks for her husband. She used Regia 4-ply Arne and Carlos 03760.

Tara is working on the Joji Locatelli Mystery Wrap/Starting Point Wrap.  She is nervously playing a game of yarn chicken with colorway #3!  If you want to see pictures of the work-in-progress, click here.

Tara is also working on the Diplodocus sweater by Kate Oates of Tot Toppers with Neighborhood Fiber Company Studio Worsted and Jill Draper Hudson.

Ashley is working on the ever-popular Find Your Fade by Andrea Mowry.

Ashley is also working on the Confluence Shawlette by Sivia Harding using Fibre Company Meadow, one of Ashley’s favorite yarns of all time.  She is adding Toho size 6 beads from Koala Beads on Etsy.

Imaginary Knitting:

Tara is lusting after the Creatrix by Laura Nelkin.  She purchased Fibre Company Meadow from Woolworks and copper Miyuki beads from Lovelyarns.

Ashley wants to do a series of fingering weight brioche hats as Christmas gifts.  She is also loving the look of Lee Meredith’s Holm and Barry hats.  Ashley wants to knit the Pink Poodle Scarves by Morehouse Designs for her nieces.  She also likes Carol Sunday’s Milano, which she could knit with yarn from stash.

Misadventures:

Tara is knitting so much that she punctured a small hole on her pointer finger!  She is too lazy to get a bandaid.  She also dealt with yarn b-a-r-f when knitting the Joji Mystery Wrap and channeled Ashley while re-winding it.

Ashley had to redo the kitchener on her Smooth Operator Sock.  She also knit one leg 1/4 inch longer than the other!

Ashley cast on the Mix Tape Sock by Abbi Grasso.  She is struggling with the gauge and had to reknit many times.  Yarn can be found on Abbi’s Etsy Site.  Ashley made a beautiful pair of Christmas Socks with Abbi’s yarn a few years ago.

What We are Wearing:

For several days in a row, Tara wore the Lisbon Pullover by Misa Erder, also known as Craftivore on Ravelry.  She also wore the Recoleta by Joji Locatelli.

Ashley wore the Hedera Socks by Cookie A.  She also wore 5 by Ann Weaver.

How it All Began:  How did we learn to knit?

• How Ashley Began (in her words):

I tried to learn how to knit in HS, but it really didn’t stick. I had great plans of knitting myself a cozy scarf for an upcoming trip to Minnesota. Well, I just made a swatch.

Fast forward 5 years later, to 2001: I was really ready to learn! I had just graduated college and wanted to learn a practical skill set, after studying art so intensely. I took several group classes at my LYS, A Good Yarn, which has since closed. I learnt German Continental and didn’t completely fall in love with the craft until 2008, right before my son was born. (When I discovered I liked wool yarn, especially hand dyed.)

My mother helped me finish a sweater (Sunnyside Up Hoody– a free pattern from Lion Brand) for my son that I started the day before he was born!  I was in full on NESTING mode. She could read a pattern better than I could!

The first REAL project that I completed was a hat (Amy’s Basket Weave hat) for my son.  I used Koigu from my LYS, Woolworks. I came in with my child and my friend. One of the owners, Amy, helped me choose yarn and needles. I was reassured I had the skills to make this hat.

• How Tara Began (in her words):

*Handwork on both sides of the family. Mother always crocheted chevron blankets. Father had a wood shop in the basement where he made furniture, canoes, and musical instruments, such as guitars. Maternal grandmother always knit—made me a grey raglan pullover with a big red heart in the middle. School colors.

*Late 90s, learned to crochet in college while watching the early days of the Daily Show and Strangers with Candy. Made a huge double crochet blanket with red heart yarn.

*While finishing up college, signed up for an Intro to Tapestry weaving in a fit of senioritis with a group of friends. Ended up really enjoying the class and made a Navajo style bag on a lap loom. Instructor was passionate about yarns and weaving, my first introduction to the fiber world. We all thought he was crazy to travel to Maryland for some sort of yarn festival.

*2012, husband said I needed a hobby and purchased a Groupon for Lovelyarns. Took a class with Mary, who was an excellent teacher.  The rest is history!

Upcoming Events:

Knit in Public Day:  Saturday, June 10th

Stash Dash:  May 26th-August 20th, hosted by the KnitGirllls

Tour de Fleece:  Begins July 6th

Wrap-Up:

Thank you for positive feedback!  Please leave a review on iTunes or Pod Bean so our podcast can be more viewable and searchable.