Down Cellar Studio Podcast
 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 176  of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes & photos check out the show notes on my webpage by clicking here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles
Crafty Adventures
KAL News
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
 
 
Off the Needles
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl 
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Berocco Ultra Wool in Heather (purple) and Charcoal gray. 
 
  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in Denim and Gray
  • Hooks: F (3.7 mm) and G (4.0 mm)
  •  
  • Pattern: Bankhead Hat by Susie Gorley (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Knitters Brewing Co Sock-aholic Brewski (worsted)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75mm) and US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Cast on Child Size. 
 
  • Pattern: prototype for new hat design
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted (black)
  • Needles: US 5 & 7
  • Pattern: Football (Soccer Ball) by Emma Moss ($2 GBP) 
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in White and Black
 
  • Pattern: none.  Improvised crochet
  • Hook: Says 0 but not sure what that means.
  • Yarn. Leftover fingering.
 
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Green Striped Ragg Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: Scrappy Sock Yarn Preemie Hat by Greg Cohoon
  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn (from Savers)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm) & US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Cast on 64 because made one before that was 60 stitches and fit but was a little too small
 
  • Pattern: The Parker Baby Booties by Ashleigh Kiser (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly Crofter DK Baby Fair Isle Effect
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Crafty Adventures
  • I mentioned last episode my Nana passed away age of 95. Left behind a great legacy of her beautiful crocheted blankets. My cousin Megan came up with a wonderful idea. She printed photos of many of my Nana’s projects and used a heart punch to cut them into heart shape. Pasted them to a plain background and framed them!
  • I made homemade banana ice cream for Mom and Jeff and my grandfather's family's eggplant recipe for Christmas dinner.
 
KAL News
 
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! 
  • Check out the December Post
  • In 2020 we'll be switching to Quarterly Challenges
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ‘19
 
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
It is an annual knit, crochet, weaving and spin along.Cast on anytime On/after September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020
 
Everything you need to know is linked in theStart Here Threadin the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including theRules,Questions Thread,End Zone Dance Threadwhere you post your FOs,Coupon Code Thread,List of Prizes,Exclusive Items from our Sponsors!
 
 
Pro Shop Sponsors 
Designs of Acadia (Pigskin Logo Bag)
 
Snack Shack Sponsors 
 
 
 
The January Interception is kindly sponsored by designer Windswept Designs (Monique Leonard)!
Did you know there’s a whole world of yarn out there that many of you have never played with? Most knitters I know use sheep’s wool but there are so many other fibers out there that offer a world of things to try. Before you roll your eyes and think “oh no, not cotton” just remember that just like you’d never judge all sheep’s wool by that one scratchy sweater that Aunt Tilda made you twenty years ago, not all cotton feels like that scratchy dish cloth. There’s also bamboo, silk, yak, alpaca, tencel, seacell, rose fiber, camel, acrylic, nylon, rayon, soy, mohair, angora, the list goes on. From gorgeous hand-dyed soft cotton to big box store acrylic there’s a range of price points and each fiber has its own interesting properties. Blends are a joy to work with! For this month’s interception, find a yarn that does not contain sheep. Not sure what to make? The sky’s the limit, but the advanced pattern search on Ravelry allows you to search by fiber type and will give you lots of ideas. And for the record, yes, you really can knit a beautiful stranded color work sweater out of cotton, like the two I wore to Rhinebeck this year. Happy knitting!
To be eligible to win
  • Complete a project of at least 100 yards that does not contain any sheep’s wool.
  • Project must have been cast on on/after 1/1/20 and completed by 1/31/20
  • Post your FO in this thread with a description and/or photo that shows how you’re meeting the challenge.
Entries:
  • 1 entry for your FO (max of 1 per person)
  • 1 additional entry if you use a pattern by Windswept Designs
Prize:
  • Will be posted soon!
 
Contest, News & Notes

103 Hatis available on Ravelry for $5. It is a DK weight textured hat that features purl rows and 1x1 cables. It includes a tutorial for how to do it without a cable needle and without having dangling stitches. Instructions are written and charted. It has been tech edited and test knit. 

  • 4 sizes
    • Finished sizes: 15.75 in/40 cm, 17.75 in/ 45 cm, 20.25 in/ 51.5 cm and 22.5 in/ 57 cm.
    • Finished height: 7.5 in/ 19 cm 
 
Part of Christy Houghton Yarn Cafe Creations Cast On Collaborative- December of Designers Project. First day’s profits going to National Alliance on Mental Illness Massachusetts 
 
77 patterns $337 donated 
 
Life in Focus
I'm a little behind in reviewing my 2019. Last year I reviewed by theme: work, personal, podcast/design, finances, health + fitness
  • What am I most proud of?
  • What results did I get?
  • New Skills or Knowledge?
  • Things and People that brought me happiness
  • Top 5 things I'm grateful for
  • Habits + improvements I've incorporated
On a Happy Note
  • 7 kid Christmas sleepover. Will rubbing Millie’s feet. R &M to gymnastics and lunch. Eme in Funky Nutcracker. Watched newer grinch cartoon and had hot cocoa. 
  • Dan helped me with wrapping. All done in about 2.5 hour.
  • Dinner and drinks with Dan's cousin and her her husband
  • Christmas with our families.
 
Quote of the Week

“Nothing is so exhausting as indecision, and nothing is so futile.”

-- Bertrand Russell
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Epiode_176_-_123019_10.04_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:44am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 175 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes and photos on my website. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Imagined Landscapes

Off the Needles

Ribbit Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Ribbit Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Mystery Spirit Yarn Christmas Socks

  • Yarn: Unknown
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan

Velvet Bear

  • Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Burgundy Plum & Blush Pink colorways
  • Hook: H
  • Used eyes and nose from 6060 on Etsy. 

Beanie for Bernie

  • Pattern: improvised based on Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
  • Hook: H (5.0mm)
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Burgundy Plum color way

On the Needles

Hattie’s Hedgehog 

  • Pattern: Hedley the Hedgehog by by Moji-Moji Design
  • Hook: B
  • Yarn- Mystery yarn from stash (maybe wool/alpaca from Long Island Livestock co)

Dragon Belly

  • Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl 
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Berocco Ultra Wool in Heather (purple) and Charcoal gray. 

Cadet Colors Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Cadet Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 

Gram’s 2019 Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Green Striped Ragg Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Brooklyn’s TeenyBeanie

  • Pattern: The TeenyBeanie by Vanessa Smith (Hooked on Sunshine Crochet) -free crochet pattern
  • Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly Crofter Baby Fair Isle Effect (DK)
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)

Millie’s Lipsticks

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight
  • Hook: Unsure- it was handed down to me. Says 0
  • Pattern: made up as I went.

Soccer Ball

  • Pattern: Football (Soccer Ball) by Emma Moss ($2 GBP) 
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in White and Black
  • 12 pentagons. 20 hexagons. 

Brainstorming

  • Before Christmas: Red Hat for Garret, 2 lipsticks for Millie, Hat and booties for Brooklyn (coming for sleepover this weekend). Ideally a hat for my dad, and a shawl for my grandmother (Dragon’s belly)
  • Before New Year’s: hedgehog for Hattie. 2 more toys for our friends’ daughters.

Crafty Adventures

  • I enjoyed a crafty day Thanksgiving Weekend with Megg. She got all of the fabric cut for the front of a quilt for her youngest daughter Hattie. Helped her with that while I started some projects.

Knitting in Passing

I shared stories of Millie spending lots of time on our recent trip to NH, knitting on “socks for Uncle Dan” which she proudly told anyone who inquired.

Enjoyed some fiber chat with my cousin Chris’ wife Leah.

 
I met a lovely lady on the train who talked about caring for someone with special needs who would sometimes crochet a chain for hours. Other times she’d make a blanket. She still brings her friend yarn when she goes to visit.


KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019

  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) – and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! 
  • Check out the December Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media

Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019 Official Rules for 2019 

We are not bringing Slay the Stash back as is in 2020:  Instead we’ll have a new quarterly challenge called the Quarterly Quest

  1. Quench the Queue
  2. Lessen the Library 
  3. Free the Favorites
  4. Slay the Stash

Pigskin Party ‘19

Not familiar? It is an annual knit, crochet, weaving and spin along. Cast on anytime On/after September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020

Everything you need to know is linked in the Start Here Thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including the Rules, Questions Thread, End Zone Dance Thread where you post your FOs, Coupon Code Thread, List of Prizes, Exclusive Items from our Sponsors!

Pro Shop Sponsors 

Snack Shack Sponsors

Updates this episode

  • November Participation Winners
  • November Interception Winner
  • The WIPs interception runs through end of KAL. Check out the details The WIPs Interception is POSTED!
  • Team Check In

Events


Contest, News & Notes 

I shared the sad news of Scott (Scooterpie) Manko’s passing 

Tune in to Episode 56 (Down Cellar Studio Podcast episode from 2014) where I told the story about first meeting Scooterpie and the running joke that ensued.

Life in Focus

Plastic-free July Update
What’s working well? 

  • Bamboo toothbrush 
  • Tooth soap from the Hippie Farmer 
  • Bar soap in shower and sink 
  • Charcoal bar soap for face 
  • Coconut oil for eye make up remover  
  • Argan oil from Trader Joe’s comes in glass 
  • Misfit box every two weeks.  If you think you might like it, check out this link to get 25% off your first order
  • Seltzer in can. Pour small amount into each glass or bottle of water for day 
  • Hot and iced coffee cup with me. 
  • Silverware and napkin and straw in purse and set in car. 
  • Using my 24oz wide mouth Ball Jar at work and home. Fits in my cup holder in the car. I do have a plastic cover but its made from recycled plastic and I use a metal straw with it.  Was a gift from my best friend. Link to Cuppow Lid that I use  
  • Made wash cloths for work- dishes. I already have cups, plates, silverware that stays at work and I was there. Was using paper towel. Cotton wash cloth dries quickly enough overnight its not a problem.
  • Continue to use my reusable mug for coffee with metal straw. 

Harder 

  • Still buying the occasional plastic seltzer bottle or soda on the go. 
  • Shampoo bar from Whole Foods + 1 from Hippie farmer. Neither worked.
  • Ordered Crush & Brush Toothpaste tabs. They don’t foam up enough for my liking.
  • Peanut butter- can buy in bulk w/ my jars only at one store locally and its not in my path. Haven’t been going back. Would like to make a point to go with 2-3 jars and refill.
  • Berries and tomatoes in plastic containers.  Try to limit when I can, but I also value getting in whole foods- different nutrients etc. 

On a Happy Note

  • Aila in the Nutcracker
  • Crafty day with Megg
  • Spotify for Christmas music
  • Yoga by the Christmas Tree
  • New glasses! 2 existing pairs with new lenses. 2 new pair.

Quote of the Week

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.

–Audrey Hepburn

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_175_-_121219_8.08_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Hello! And welcome to Episode 174 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. My name is Jen and I'm your host and I'd like to welcome both new and returning listeners to the show. Today's segments include:
 
[for website]
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 174 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes and photos on my website by clicking here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles
On the Needles
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
 
 
Off the Needles
 
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in The Darker Side of Pi(e) colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Queen City Yarn NODA Sock (75 Merino/25 nylon) in the Huddle is Real Colorway (Pigskin Party '18 Exclusive colorway)
  • Needle: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  •  
  • Pattern:Alan the Alien & his Flying Saucer by Moji-Moji Design
  • Yarn: leftover DK/worsted weight scraps
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
 
  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Pattern: None. Details on how I made it listed in project page notes.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up cotton
  • First one with poly pellets in bottom. Used organza pouch to hold the pellets. Any better ideas out there?
 
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl 
  • Aussi Wool Worsted 
  • Hook: I (5.25 mm)
  • 3 skeins, $10 ea at Rhinebeck 
 
On the Needles
 
  • Pattern: Hedley the Hedgehog by by Moji-Moji Design
  • Hook: B
  • Yarn- Mystery yarn from stash (maybe wool/alpaca from Long Island Livestock co)
 
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl 
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Berocco Ultra Wool in Heather (purple) and Charcoal gray. 
 
  • Yarn: Unknown
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan (Knit-Wit Designs— Pigskin Sponsor)
  •  
 
 
 
From the Armchair
 
Podcasts:
 
Knitting in Passing
I explained to my Aunt Florence what blocking is and got to see the beautiful projects she’s knitting for her granddaughters for Christmas. 
 
In My Travels
 
 
KAL News
 
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! 
  • Check out the December post 
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ‘19
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
It is an annual knit, crochet, weaving and spin along.Cast on anytime On/after September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020
 
Everything you need to know is linked in the Start Here Thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including theRules,Questions Thread,End Zone Dance Threadwhere you post your FOs,Coupon Code Thread,List of Prizes,Exclusive Items from our Sponsors!
 
Pro Shop Sponsors 
Designs of Acadia (Pigskin Logo Bag)
 
Snack Shack Sponsors 
 
 
 
Thank you to Lisa for posting the Give Thanks Bonus Point Challenge.
 
I am prticipating in Indie GAL this year. Check out the Ravelry Groupfor the KAL.
Coupon- giftalong2019 
The KAL kicks off with a sale of 25% off with code giftalong2019 from Tuesday, November 26th 8pm (US-EST) through Monday, December 2nd at 11:59 pm (US-EST). Designers can discount 10-20 patterns. All of my paid for patterns are eligible for the sale. 
Click here for the bundle of all of the sale patterns. Here is the bundle of all of the participating designers; all of their patterns count towards the KAL,
 
Events
 
Kick off to Lady Dye’s Be The Change Tourat Gather Here on Sunday 11/17/19.
 
Life in Focus
Next month, by popular request, I’ll be doing an update on my Plastic Free July Challenge. If you have questions for me, please post them in this thread.
 
On a Happy Note
  • I can’t believe I forgot to share with you my Stash Dash Champion Sash
  • Dave and Jenna’s Wedding!
  • Lovely prayer service for my grandmother who passed away peacefully at the age of 95. 
  • Survived another overnight upgrade.
  • Yoga.
 
Quote of the Week

“I love repetition. Repetitions turn time into a place, turns the days into a house, where the repetitions form the walls, floor, and ceiling.”

-- Karl Ove Knausgaard
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_174_-_113019_9.54_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:50am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 173 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos click here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works & JDStudios480 
 
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly Shawl by Jo
  • Yarn: Knit Picks
  • Hook: J
  • Melville - City Tweed DK Value Pack.  Needs to be blocked.
 
  • Pattern: Crayons Amigurumi by StringyDingDing
  • Yarn: Plymouth DK?
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm) Start at top. Moved down to a C Hook.
  • Thanks to  SaraKnitsKC for mentioning this pattern

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in The Darker Side of Pi(e) colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Queen City Yarn NODA Sock (75 Merino/25 nylon) in the Huddle is Real Colorway (Pigskin Party '18 Exclusive colorway)
  • Needle: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern:Alan the Alien & his Flying Saucer by Moji-Moji Design
  • Yarn: leftover DK/worsted weight scraps
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Pattern: Perfectly Ruffled Scrunchies by Miranda Dielsen
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Spruce and Mulled Rose Colorways
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
  • Thanks Melissa for tip on free pattern for Velvet Ruffled scrunchie
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover sport weight yarn
  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)

Brainstorming

  • I'd like to crochet a Hedgehog for my niece Hattie to go with books her parents have been reading to her by Steve Wilson I am leaning towards Hedley the Hedgehog  by Moji-Moji Design.
  • I want to use up the Bernat Velvet Yarn I've purchased. Searched by the yarn name on Ravelry in the Advanced Pattern search and found the Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman.

From the Armchair

Tune in to hear reviews of the following 2 items:

Crafty Adventures

Thank you Jen for gifting me this beautiful walnut stained Kromski Minstrel. I'm so excited to get spinning. If you know of any great resources for a beginning spinner please send them my way!
 

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the November Post 
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
  • Tune in to see if you're the October Slay the Stash Winner.
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ‘19
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors
Tune in to hear the October Interception Winner & the October participation winners.
 
  • The November Interception is sponsored by Queen City Yarn. The theme this month is to Put in Your Back-up Quarterback. Find all of the details in the thread linked above.
  • Tune in to hear the Pigskin Party 19 Grand Prize Details!!

Life in Focus

  • I shared the blackberry dressing recipe I use sometimes for salad.
  • I've been enjoying doing weekly meal prep for both Mom and me. Proud of myself for being able to flip the 215 pound tire at Tabata class.

Ask Me Anything

 
Thanks JenKPhillips on IG for reaching out to ask what knitting audio podcasts I listen to
List of knitting podcasts I listen to (thought of a couple after I recorded so I've added them here too)
 
2 Knit Lit Chicks
Backstage Knitting
Bede Sisters Podcast
BHooked
Collage Knits with Amy Small
Cook Craft Read Repeat
Doubleknit
F This Knit
Fiber Knitche
Imagined Landscapes
Keep a calm and Carry Yarn
Knit Picks’ Podcast
Kino Knits
Knitmore Girls
The Knitting Hook-Up
Knitting on the Run
Knitting Pipeline
Knitty McPurly Podcast
Maine Yarn
Just One More Row
Prairie Girls Knit and Spin
Salty Jo Knits
Skein Enable Podcast
Spin Control Podcast
Stash and Burn
The SweetGeorgia Show
Teaching your Brain to Knit
Traveling Stitches POdcast
Two Ewes Fiber Adventures
The Unraveling Podcast
VeryPink Knits
The Woolly Thistle Podcast
The Yarniacs
 
Question for YOU!
Do you have thoughts on whether you'd be interested in joining as a patron (though Patreon) if I started one? Come share in the Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.
 

On a Happy Note

  • Lots of family fun at my cousin Mike’s wedding - got a red, lace Ann Klein dress for $18 at a consignment shop! 
  • Atticus birthday Party- sat with a couple whose youngest child has the same parts in the Nutcracker as Aila!
  • Went to see Oisin perform in Seussical. He did a great job as Thing 2 and when Hattie saw him on stage, she lit up! 
  • Halloween- my friends and I dressed up at gym (as our trainer) for a contest. At night I went out to Trick or Treat with Will, Aila, Oisin and Hattie.

Quote of the Week

 

“Perhaps it is the simplest and most popular truths which are also the deepest after all.” – Thomas Merton 

------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_173_-_11819_8.06_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 172 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • In My Travels
  • KAL News
  • Contests, News & Notes
  • Quote of the Week

In My Travels

Tune in to hear my Rhinebeck recap with Mom
 
Friday Highlights 

 

  • Mom bought a “this is my Rhinebeck sweater” enamel pin from Shelli Can
  • I bought mom some beautiful yarn from Brooke of Fully Spun 
 
  • Mom bought me the one thing I really wanted to find— a Stitch Marker Necklace in the Paige the Framer Booth. The maker is Heidi and Lana. I got the 36" inch silver chain with the Pewter Stitch Markers.
  • Thank you Sue and Chelsea of Legacy Fiber Artz for joining up as a Pigskin Party Sponsor and for the beautiful donation of sock sets for prizes 
  • I bought a skein of self-striping from Fibernymph Dye Works for socks for Mom. It was great seeing Lisa’s rainbow version of Tan House Brook shawl in the FIbernymph Booth! 
 
Saturday Highlights
  • I bought a beautiful basket
  • Barn 31= the magical barn
    • Loved the Stowe Away sweater by Rose Beck & was so happy to meet the ladies behind Nomadic Knits. Tune in to episode 173 for a review.
  • Ran into Lisa and Anne!
  • We saw some llamas. 
  • No line at Kettle Corn! Bought 2 bags!
  • Podcaster Meet-up at 1p on the hill. It was so great seeing and chatting with so many of you. 
  • After the meet-up we headed to the beer garden to catch up with friends. We ran into Melissa- Progress Keepers by Meliabella, cute project bag tag with Pigskin Theme. Progress Keepers- 2. Mom stole one immediately and put it on her bracelet.
  • Check out the Episode 172 Thread to guess what progress keeper Mom stole looks like? I'll pull a random winner on November 8th.

  • Loved seeing Shelly and Judy- wearing their World of Difference and Emelyn Mae Shawls & my friends from Gather Here.
  • We did some more afternoon shopping in barns. We always love visiting the Ross Farm booth to see Sarah Jordan- PAKnitWit- Pigskin Sponsor and of course Amy & Scooterpie. 
  • Mom loved petting bunnies
  • Mom bought sweater quantity- Battenkill Fiber Millin NY. $10/skein 
  • Mom enjoyed apple crisp and ice cream. We sat and knit with Ryan and Nicki before we left the fairgrounds.
  • We enjoyed dinner (and/or beer and kettlecorn) and then did show and tell. So funny! 
 
Sunday Highlights 
  • Got some photos with the year’s festival logo and the yarn bombing installation on the way in. They were made by the talented London Kaye
  • Tried on some samples. One pattern that was neat was the Love Note done without mohair and modified sleeves.
  • Mom got to show Crispina Ffrench the jacket she made.
  • We ran into group of friends outside buildings on way over to see my friend Mara at Beer Garden and I finally got to meet the dyer behind Lavender Lune- Sam. 
  • Marabrought her beautiful boys and her finished Riley Rose Shawl to show me. 
  • We ended the day in Building E (the food building) I bought 2 kinds of jam for Dan. We had a lovely chat with the ladies of Coyote Kitchen 
  • Nicki and Amy stayed at my house. Tried out Nicki’s new Electric Eel Wheel Nanoe-spinner. Frustrated but intrigued. 
 

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! 
  • Check out the November Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ‘19
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
It is an annual knit, crochet, weaving and spin along.Cast on anytime On/after September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020
 
Everything you need to know is linked in theStart Here Threadin the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including theRules,Questions Thread,End Zone Dance Threadwhere you post your FOs,Coupon Code Thread,List of Prizes,Exclusive Items from our Sponsors!
 
Pro Shop Sponsors 
Designs of Acadia (Pigskin Logo Bag)
 
 
Snack Shack Sponsors 
 
 
Tune in to hear the details of the November Interception sponsored by Queen City Yarn
 
 

Contests, News and Notes

 
My latest pattern will be available soon! Sign up for my email newsletterto make sure you’re the first to know when my  Thumper Hat is available and to get the best intro code.
 
 

Quote of the Week

“No effort is required to define or even attain happiness, but enormous concentration is needed to abandon everything else.”

-- Quentin Crisp

 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_172_-_103019_5.45_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 171 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my webpage.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Lasso color way
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: Watayuki by Natsuko Iida
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: bought in bargain bin at Rhinebeck.
  • #myRHINEbipoc sweater #2 for me. #BIPOCMAL2019
  • Matches perfectly with my OPI Nail polish- Berlin There Done That

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly Shawl by Johanna Lindahl
  • Yarn: Knit Picks
  • Hook: J
  • Melville - City Tweed DK Value Pack.
 
  • Pattern: Crayons Amigurumi by StringyDingDing
  • Yarn: Plymouth DK
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm) I may go down a hook size the body of the crayon.
 
  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Pix in the Cake Party Colorway
  • Pattern: TBD
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • 56 stitches, cuff down.
 
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Playhouse colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Brainstorming

  • I'd like to start a pair of socks for my friend, Laura. Last night I wound up a skein of the color way "The Huddle is Real" a Pigskin Party Exclusive from 2018 by Queen City Yarn 
  • Rhinebeck packing- at least 2 pair of socks (maybe 3) Maybe another Dragon Belly shawl?
  • Friday, I think I’ll wear my Sandbar Cardiby Toni Lipsey
  • Saturday, if its cool enough and initial forecasts indicate it will be, I’ll wear my new Watayuki pullover
  • Sunday I may wear my Grace & Frankie Shawl
  • I'll be packing my Ice Time Hat & Cowl for sure.
 
From the Armchair
 
I share my tips on getting #RhinebeckReady. If you’re on my email newsletter list you’ll receive this PDF in the email newsletter going out w/ the podcast episode.
 
  • Share your packing and your tips with #RhinebeckReady on Instagram.
  • If you're coming to Rhinebeck, bring me a swatch! My friend Beverly is working on an art project with the theme “connection.” She wants to work with swatches from knitters all over the world into one piece. 
    Details:
    • Swatches DO NOT need to be blocked, or be from any particular type of fiber, color, or weight.
    • Please attach the following info (if you bring your swatch in a plastic bag you can slip a note in it or just safety pin to it): Where are you from? (City, country) What did you swatch this for? (it’s ok to say just for fun or for this project)
    • If you want me to send you a photo of the finished project, please include some sort of contact info - even just a ravelry name. 

Knitting in Passing

Riley took the sock I was knitting on at my Dad's birthday dinner. Millie asked to knit in the car on the way home but I had to tell her no. 
  

KAL News

 
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the October Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
  • Tune in to see if you're the September winner
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ‘19
 
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
It is an annual knit, crochet, weaving and spin along.Cast on anytime On/after September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020
 
Everything you need to know is linked in the Start Here Thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including the RulesQuestions ThreadEnd Zone Dance Thread where you post your FOs, Coupon Code ThreadList of PrizesExclusive Items from our Sponsors!
 
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
Designs of Acadia (Pigskin Logo Bag)
 
Snack Shack Sponsors
 

Events

 
  • Indie Untangled I’ll be attending in the 12-2p time slot.
  • Needles Up! Friday October 18, 2019. General admission 1-6p  Best Western Plus Kingston Hotel and Conference Center. I'm planning to attend after Indie Untangled.
  • Rhinebeck Yarn Bazaar : Friday October 18 from 2-6p in Rhinebeck. Knit night event at 7:30p (must buy ticket). I am not planning to attend. 
  • NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck)- October 19 & 20 (new hours Sat 9-5 and Sunday 9-4). I'll be there both days! Come say hi. 
  • Whinebeck Bingo- for those who can’t attend but want something fun to do that weekend- check out Whinebeck Bingo by the Knitmore Girls. This year there’s a printable Bingo card. Check off the things you do and share on social media!
  • Fiber Festival of New England- November 2 & 3 in Springfield, MA (I cannot attend this year).
 
 

Contest, News & Notes

 
 

Ask Me Anything

I answered two questions from Instagram users.
 
  • What are you most looking forward to at Rhinebeck? What’s on your wishlist?
  • Knitting for the body one has now, rather than waiting until one loses/gains enough weight? 
 

On a Happy Note

  • I got to see my nephew Will’s footsol game last Friday which totally cheered me up after a tough day. 
  • I received some beautiful flowers from Dan (to my office) while I was at conference.
  • I attended the yarn bombing event I participated in with my family last Saturday.
  • Dinner for Dad’s birthday- Millie (7) talked us into a sleepover. Highlights: snuggles before bed, holding hands, reading Polar Express, building her a sleeping fort next to the guest bed in what she calls "her room." Pancakes in the morning. Craft project. 
  • My niece Aila (9) will be performing with Boston Ballet in the Nutcracker in Boston this winter. She’ll be a mouse and a polichinelle!
  • BONUS AUDIO at the end with Millie
 

Quote of the Week

 

“It is all a question of weeding out what you yourself like best to do, so that you can live most agreeably in a world full of an increasing number of disagreeable surprises.”

-- M.F.K. Fisher

------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_171_-_101219_2.42_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 170 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full Show Notes include photos click here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: AdoreKnit
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
 
 
  • Improvised pattern influenced by the Pig Miniature Amigurumi pattern and some counts from the Cuddle Bunny pattern (both linked on my Ravelry Project Page).
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava minis- 2 colors of pink.
  • Eyes from 6060 on Etsy
 
  • Improvised pattern influenced by the Buddy Bunny in the 4 Seasons Easter pattern and some counts from the Cuddle Bunny pattern (both linked on my Ravelry Project Page).
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava minis
  • Eyes & nose from 6060 on Etsy
 

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Watayuki by Natsuko Iida $6.34 US at time of checking
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: bought in bargain bin at Rhinebeck.
  • #myRHINEbipoc sweater #2 for me
  • Yarn: Unknown
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan (Knit-Wit Designs— Pigskin Sponsor)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers Sheepish base in the To Knit or to Hike Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Lasso color way
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Knitting in tandem

Crafty Adventures

  • Tune in to hear about how I used an old swatch to cover up a conference logo and epicycle a tote bag! 
  • I used a Fiskars Perforating blade for my rotary trimmer to make the holes into which I could sew on the swatch.
  • I single crocheted around the outside edge (after sewing on the swatch- probably not the ideal order of operations), then steam blocked it.
  • Wins: Great use of swatch. Great place to put buttons and enamel pins. Great way to get more life out of a bag I may have donated but is certainly still useful to me. 

Knitting In Passing 

 
  • In visiting friends this weekend two brothers told me stories about their mother's quilting and knitting, the things she made for them and the memories they still cherish. 
  • I used my half-knit sock as a beer koozie when my hand was too cold and I couldn't find the one I packed.

In my Travels

Tune in to hear about my visits to all 9 shapes in the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- September 12-15, 2019 (the first year for this event).
 
 
 

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the September Post & the October Post.
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media 
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ’19 
Pro Shop Sponsors 
Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • #BIPOCMAL: Started by DesamourDesigns on Instagram.Click here for a link to her website with all the details.
  • Refugee hats for Maine. Information from Clara Parkes on Instagram: Having fled their homes in Congo and Angola and then traveled 10,000 miles they didn’t exactly have time to stock up on warm winter woolens before they got there. This is where knitters and crocheters come in. They need warm hats and mittens especially for babies and children.
  • Address: Maine Access Immigrant Network 237 Oxford St. Suite 25A Portland, ME 04101
 

Life in Focus

  • For our annual Woodchopping Weekend Party we bought and used compostable plates, bowls and utensils. Felt great not throwing out a bunch of trash! We had some recyclables, but mostly cans. Bought growlers to cut down on the single server beer containers.
  • Have still been hitting the gym hard. Consistently 3-4 days per week now instead of 2.
  • Finalizing tech edit of a hat pattern, and knitting up 2 more. Updating those notes. Feeling very happy with my progress this year but will be happier when I get each of them across the finish line.

On a Happy Note

  • Camping in VT. Exploring new trails on our friend's property which inspired Dan and I to do some more work on our own land.
  • Woodchopping weekend- funny moment when talking about colorwork and being unsure if letters would stand out. Dan contributes “once you swatch it you’ll be able to tell”
  • Riley, Aila, Oisin slept over afterwards. Riley says she’s going to carry on Uncle Dan’s pancake tradition. Tune in after the credits for some audio with Riley and Aila. 

Quote of the Week

Change may not always bring growth, but there is no growth without change.”
― Roy T. Bennett
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_170_-_93019_8.19_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:22pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 169 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: agirlandherwool & Jennifer Lassonde designs
 
 

Off the Needles

 
I finished a new version of a hat design I’m working through. DK weight yarn from Goosey FibersSquish Base. So squishy and soft. Highly recommend. Also realized that this base is a 75% super wash merino wool 25% nylon which I think is hard to find. But if you’re ever wanting to make DK weight socks this is a great option.
 

On the Needles

  • Pattern: Watayuki by Natsuko Iida $6.34 US at time of checking
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • #myRHINEbipoc sweater #2 for me. This also counts for the #BIPOCMAL
 
  • She needs a name! Suggestions on Facebook: Flora, Flo, Rosa, Penelope, Florence, DANielle (because I said she was going to replace Dan), Flossy, Peggy, Paulette, Fifi, Mango, Frankie for Francesca, Fran,Felicia the Fab Flamingo, Ethyl,  Phyllis, Fabriana, Robin, Fiona, Flora, Fantasia, Fleur
  • Will be on display at the Mansfield, MA Fall Festival at Fulton Pond October 4 + 5, 2019
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Unknown
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan (Knit-Wit Designs— Pigskin Sponsor)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers Sheepish base in the To Knit or to Hike Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • First Pigskin Party 19 Project. Holly Press Fibers is a Pro Shop  Sponsor (8pts) and I'm carrying it in a fun woodland themed bag from Kitchen Counter Crafter- Snack Shack Sponsor (4 pts)
 
  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)

From the Armchair

Knitting In Passing 

I shared a story about chatting with a man on my train about knitting socks (and then found out Lisa was on my train the whole time but we didn't see each other).

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the September Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party ’19 
 
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
 
Everything you need to know is linked in the Start Here Threadin the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group including the Rules, Questions Thread, End Zone Dance Threadwhere you post your FOs, Coupon Code Thread, List of Prizes, Exclusive Items from our Sponsors!
 
 
September Interception is posted! Presented by Pigskin Sponsor Woodsy & Wild
 
  • Prize: A Woodsy & Wild signature Birch Bag
  • You can also find a video of me talking about it on my Instagram profile page listed as #1 Interception or find it on YouTube.
 
Pro Shop Sponsors 
Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

 

Contest, News & Notes

 

Life in Focus

  • Health: Focusing on drinking more water and eating breakfast later. Skipping snacking and working through urges to eat. Time to get off the summer pound or two I put on.
  • Design- got a huge stack of stitch dictionaries from the library! Psyched to pour through them.

On a Happy Note

  • I shared stories from Labor Day weekend. Yes, Mom and I made another trip to Savers.
  • Last Saturday, we hung out at - Vitamin Sea Brewing. Then I saw a friend in fundraiser musical- the Bridges of Madison County.
  • Applepicking at Applecrest.

Quote of the Week

"To be heroic is to be courageous enough to die for something; to be inspirational is to be crazy enough to live a little."
― Criss Jami
 
------
 
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_169_-_91519_7.20_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:31pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 168 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Sunsoaked Yarns
 

Off the Needles

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Coffee Break Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 244 meters
  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy yarn in the Rock You Like a Hurricane colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • West Yorkshire spinners for heel only.
  • 278 meters
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the 8 Bit Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Sock blank by AndreSue Knits
  • US 1 (2.25mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian heel by Sarah Jordan
  • 353 meters
 
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Bold in the Dover Sand colorway. blue
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Pattern: Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
  • 121 meters
 
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Bold in the Lavender Frost Colorway
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Pattern: Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
  • 125 meters
 
  • Yarn: Loops and Threads Impeccable in the Orange Crush colorway
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Pattern: Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
  • 101 meters
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers - Sheepish (fingering weight) base in colorways:  Flower Petal, Rambler in the Wilderness & Seeking You.
  • 1945 meters
 
  • Yarn: Berocco Summer Silk in the colorway:
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Sandbar Cardi by Toni Lipsey (crochet pattern $7.50)
  • 1051 meters
 
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Charcoal Colorway
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Herringbone Square Basket by Rebecca Langford (free crochet pattern)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Finished 1 sock= 152 meters
 
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream Stripes in the Holiday Stripes Colorway + Cream
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Pattern: none- basic hexagon
  • Notes: held yarn double with cream.
  • 153 meters
 
My Stash Dash Result=. 16,355 meters (Goal 10k. Stretch Goal 15k)

On the Needles

I'm working Flamingo crochet project for Mansfield Yarn Bombing. No pattern.
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm
  • Yarn: Unknown
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan (Knit-Wit Designs)

Brainstorming

  • Need to get started on Christmas gifts & stockings
  • Wendy knitters Brewing compnay posted adorable football coaster! Free crochet pattern.
  • listener Sara KnitsKC- sent me even better idea for the Crayon pattern for Aila's Christmas gift.
  • My friend Melissa asked me to think about designing a pattern for a roll up pouch to hold silverware + a re-useable straw.

From the Armchair

 
I discussed audiobooks: We Are Never Meeting in Real Life  by Samantha Irby  Michael Hyatt's Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World
 

In My Travels

 
  • I discussed an afternoon in Portland visiting Duck Fat, Rising Tide, Austin Street Brewing, Lone Pine. Maine Beer Company
  • We spent the rest of the weekend camping Wolfe's Neck Ocean Front Camping. .

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the September Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Pigskin Party Artwork - Pigskin Party Final2
6th Annual Pigskin Party kicks off —- September 5, 2019 and runs through February 3, 2020
Check out the Start Here Thread for everything you need to know
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors
 

Events

Life in Focus

  • Tune in to hear updates on my 2019 Goals around publishing 10 patterns and building muscle.

Ask Me Anything

Tune in to hear my answers to questions listeners posted on Instagram.

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

Unless a capacity for thinking be accompanied by a capacity for action, a superior man exists in torture.
—Benedetto Croce
 
 
------
 
 
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_168_-_83019_6.22_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:32pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 167 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found at: www.downcellarstudio.com/167 
 
This week's segments included:
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles 

  • Pattern: Holden Cable Crochet Hat by Lakeside Loops ($5 crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Yarns Dawson (Bulky weight; 50% llama, 50% merino) in the Wandering Vine Colorway (red)
  • Hook: K 6.5mm
  • 157 meters 
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) and G (4.25 mm)
  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Meters: 56 
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) and G (4.25 mm)
  • Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde
  • 208 meters
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Deja Blue colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Meters: 262 
 
Stash Dash KAL: 11,528 meters to date
 

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Coffee Break Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Bold in the Dover Sand colorway. blue
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Pattern: Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
 
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers - Sheepish (fingering weight) base in colorways:  Flower Petal, Rambler in the Wilderness & Seeking You + 3 mystery skeins from stash. Using fingering held double.
 
  • Yarn: Berocco Summer Silk in the colorway 4006 Boardwalk
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Sandbar Cardi by Toni Lipsey (crochet pattern $7)
  • This will likely be a #RhineBIPOCsweater for me 

Crafty Adventures

I learned some basic Embroidery from my friend Beverly. On the way home, I ordered this tracing light box for use in future projects.
 

Knitting in Passing

I shared a story about meeting a man in Baltimore who told us a story about how he learned to crochet during recovery from surgery.

In My Travels

Tune in for stories about my recent trip to visit with friends in Baltimore
  • I got out walking - cool park trails on Sunday morning
  • We enjoyed Paper Moon for breakfast. We visited a cute plant store B.Willow and I purchased a Tinted Lip balm (with no plastic container) from Priya Means Love

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the August Post
  • Tune in to see if you're the July winner! 
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 
The Splash Pad is closed for the season! Tune in to see if you won a prize.
 
 
Pigskin Party: the 6th Annual Pigskin Party kicks off on September 5, 2019 and runs through February 3, 2020
 
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
 
Pro Shop Sponsors (so far)
  1. Designs of Acadia (Pigskin Logo Bag)
 
Snack Shack Sponsors (so far)
 
 

Events

 
Online Events
  • Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019 Watch the friendly competition with Jasmin and me on Instagram: #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter
  • The Blanket Project- the Art Division and other groups throughout the country have begun knitting and quilting blankets for children at the border. Social Media:  Feel free to share your pictures/videos with us using the hashtags #theblanketprojectla #artdivisionla Instagram: @artdivisionla    Facebook: @artdivision.org  Twitter: @ArtDivisionLA
    • Knitted, Quilted, Crocheted and Fleece tie/knot Blankets are welcome. 
Local Events
 

Ask Me Anything

This episode I answered two questions from Instagram.
  1. MegsDuffy- How do you stay motivated when you have so much going on???
  2. ProudfootK- Plans for fall sweater knitting? Tips on curating your stash/or curbing stash acquisitions? 
 

On a Happy Note

  • Old friends: my friend Laura visited the first weekend in August. I spent last weekend with friends I've know for more than 12 years- originally met through scrapbooking.
  • Cooler mornings.
  • Long walks outside.
 

Quote of the Week

There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” -- William Shakespeare, Hamlet

 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_167_-_81419_8.42_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:52pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 166 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
 

Off the Needles

 
Ball Band with a Twist -24 oz (pint + a half size) and16oz(pint size)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in Lime (base), Sunflower (bottom), and Aqua (body)
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm) & F (3.75 mm)
  • 24 oz- 51 meters
  • 16 oz- 35 meters
  • Pattern available now! $2 on Ravelry. 2 sizes. 3 colors though that’s easy to edit. Photo tutorial showing you how to find the third loop. 
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in Lime (base), Sunflower (bottom), and Aqua (body)
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm) & F (3.75 mm)
  • 24 oz- 51 meters 
  • Pattern: The Fisherman's Wife (class at Staci's Stitches)
  • Hook: 12 mm
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Fig Colorway
  • First foray into Crochet Cables!
  • 129 meters 
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Bold in the Dover Sand colorway. Cream
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Pattern: Gina’s Messy Bun Hat
  • 128 meters 
  • Slouchy hat Pattern design idea that I can't share yet.
  • 144 meters
Bronwyn Shawl(in blues)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn:  Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Superwash
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
  • Knit Picks Wool of the Andes- Color A- Dove Heather, Color B Light blue (need to find ball band), and Color C- Solstice Heather (Navy)
  • 778 meters
 
  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • 2 pairs of shortie socks- 359 meters
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Spooky color way
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 270 meters
1,946 meters since last episode. 9,319 meters to date! 15k here I come!
 

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers - Sheepish (fingering weight) base in colorways:  Flower Petal, Rambler in the Wilderness & Seeking You. Assylum Fibers + 2 mystery skeins from stash. Holding fingering held double. 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Deja Blue color way
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the 8-bit color way
  • Needles: US 1 (2.0 mm)
  • Colors_ light and dark grey with a dirty lime green. 
  • 3rd version of lace slouchy hat design. Smaller size. So addictive!
 
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers - Goosey Hefty (Worsted Weight) in the Carolina Colorway
 

Brainstorming

  • Garret asked for a rainbow ninja - I was confused at first because he has a whole rainbow. he wants 1 ninja with all the colors.
  • Riley wants hats and booties for her doll Brooklyn. Light pinks and white each in fingering. Thicker winter hat with Pom Pom
  • Oisin asked for alien with a baseball hat & a ball: Alan the Alien and his Flying Saucer. $5 crochet pattern by Moji-Moji Design. Alan can sit inside his saucer- the top comes off so you hide him in here. Not sure if I'll make the saucer or not but I may!
  • When asked what she wanted, Millie said dramatically "I need to THINK about it!!"
  • I now also want to make all the crochet hats! 
  • I'm eyeing the Sandbar Cardiby Toni Lipsey. $7.50 crochet pattern for me. 
  • Would also love to make the Easy Crop Top by Grace forthefrills (free crochet pattern) 
 

Crafty Adventures

Stay tuned to the end of the episode for this segment. My 11 year old niece Riley and I recorded two bits of audio last weekend about our crafty adventures during her sleepover.
 
 

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the August Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 

Splash Pad Party

Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors

 

  • Get those projects finished up! Post in Summer Celebration thread! I'll close it on Thursday morning August 1st. If the thread is open You may post. Winners will be announced on the next episode. Thanks again to all of our sponsors this year!!
 

6th Annual Pigskin Party kicks off —-  September 5, 2019- February 3, 2020

 
Not familiar? It's a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
 
  • All of the details you need can be found in Pigskin '19 Start Here Thread 
  • Want to sponsor? Details for the Sponsor options can be found here.
  •  This year we're going to try out a Team option. Check out the Try Out thread in early August for details and to sign up.Please note:  joining a team is not required to play.   

Events

Online Event: Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019

Contest, News & Notes

  • Thanks for all the love for the GoodReader Tutorial! Come join our chat in the Ravelry Groupif you found cool uses or have questions.
  •  Ball Band with a Twist pattern available on Ravelry!
  • LadyDyeYarns is partnering up with my friends and yours- The Knitmore Girls on a project called, #myRhineBIPOCSweater. Check out this post on Instagram for details - posted below as well to help spread the word!They say, "We want to make sure this year and beyond that BIPOC designers and dyers are represented at the New York Sheep and Wool Festival. So we wanted to do a KAL/CAL for the #myRhineBIPOCSweater."The way this will work is:
    •  Choose a piece from this list This list has been curated by @blacksquirrelberkeley (based on @jeanettesloan’s list)
    • Use/Purchase yarn from a BIPOC dyer (check out Lady Dye's previous post of BIPOC dyers)
    • Use the #RhineBIPOCSweater, and a dyer from the BIPOC Dyer list to spread the love.
    • Dyers: Jasmin and I did come up with colors theme for this KAL/CAL: purple, green, blue, golden yellow, and black. We are encouraging all those participating to use any/all of these colors for your sweater. We are asking #bipocdyers to use these colors to create your inspired colorways for this KAL/CAL. We have a link that we are using that can choose your color palette shade from the colors we listed above.
    • We really hope you all can join us in the KAL/CAL. We can’t wait to look on instagram and see the progress everyone is making and we will see you all at Rhinebeck with your sweaters on! This is what it’s all about. Taking action, working together, creating an inclusive community, and recognizing diversity in designers and dyers.
    • Here’s the google link For BIPOC DYERS TO SUBMIT THEIR INFO SO WE CAN LIST YOUR COMPANY
 

Life in Focus

  • Tune in to hear my updates on my Plastic Free July challenge.
  • This did include 2 deliveries from Misfits Market. If you think you might like it,check out this link to get 30% off your first order.
  • Update on Shampoo Bar I bought at Whole Foods- used it 3-4 times now. Still not 100% sold. Under layer of my hair looks stringy/greasy. You can't really see that from the top thankfully. Will use a little more but it may not be a good fit for me. 
  • Come chat in the#PlasticFreeJuly Threadin the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group! Will definitely extend beyond this month!
 

Ask Me Anything

Deferred this episode's questions to Episode 167 for time.  

On a Happy Note

 
  • Pool Party for my nephew Will's 12th birthday.
  • Finding new walking trails off the beaten path at my local State Park.
  • Camp- long walk. crazy hills. Pickle ball. Kayaking. Playing dominos.
  • Wearing dresses!
  • Check out this Superhero Muffin recipe. I got a cakeholder type thing at Savers to hold our muffins. Dan likes them so I think these may be part of our weekly food prep for awhile.

Quote of the Week

Don't take criticism from someone you would never go to for advice.
–Heather Antos
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_166_-_73019_7.39_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:47pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 165 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Kitchen Counter Crafter
  

Off the Needles

 
Jar Cozies
 
  1. Coral & Navy- pint sized. 46 meters
  2. July 4th- pint sized- 46 meters
  3. Mustard & Gray- pint sized. 38 meters
  4. Ball Band Cozy- 24oz size- 56 meters
  5. Black & Gray- 32 oz- 62 meters
  6. Gray & White- pint sized- 32 meters
 
  • Enjoying Lion Brand Re-Up Yarn
  • Fits well into my plastic free july personal challenge.
  • I use mine with a metal straw and a recycled plastic cover from Cuppow
 
 
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)
    • Magic ring 6
    • Increase up through inc, sc7
    • Last round in a contrast color for ones I’m using at the gym. Single color for washing dishes at work.
  • Made 6 so far. 60 grams of yarn- 88 meters
 
2 new designs in the works. 3 samples knit
Meters for Stash Dash as of this episode: 7,373 Meters.
 

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Finished 3 out of 4 shorties
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Spooky color way
  • Needles: US 1 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Spooky color way
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the 8-bit color way
  • Needles: US 1 (2.0 mm)
 
 
  • Pattern: Weaveless Colorful Granny by CherylDeeCrochet
  • Hook: K 6.5 mm
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Value packs
  • Pattern: The Fisherman's Wife
  • Hook: 12 mm
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Fig Colorway
Project from class
Intermediate Crochet - Intro to Cables, Thursdays July 11 - August 8, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at Staci's Stitches in Scituate. MA $80
 
 

Brainstorming

  • I talked to the nieces and nephews about crochet toy requests (to get ready for Christmas). Aila asked for an orange crayon with a cute face. Oisín wants an alien with a baseball and a hat. Will wants Rocky Balboa! 

From the Armchair

 
Chernobyl  on HBO & Sky UK
 
Prompted me to want to learn more about the subject. Some links you might find interesting: 
 

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the July Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
  • Pull June winner- post #16 laDiDa2u- Knit picks felici.
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019

Splash Pad Party

Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Online Event: Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019
  • Watch the friendly competition with Jasmin and me on Instagram: #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter
 

Contest, News & Notes

 
  • Tune in to hear if you won a copy of the Moduloncho by Shana Cohen- check her out on Instagram as Shanalines_designs 
  • Private Notes feature on Ravelry! new. Not sure when. So handy. For design stuff. notes about the pattern that are too specific and don't want to violate someone else's copyright.
  • Check my first ever Crochet pattern available free on Ravelry. It's called the Ball Band Cozy
  • The GoodReader Tutorial Washcloth- is also now available on Ravelry for $10 US. Check out the Ravelry page for full details. If you have any question about whether the GoodReader app will work for your iPad, don't hesitate to reach out to me on Ravelry (BostonJen).
  • Come chat in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Thread for GoodReader App users  

 Life in Focus

 
I talked about my personal Plastic Free July Challenge. Tune in for all of the details. Here are a couple links you might find helpful.
  • Using my 24oz wide mouth Ball Jar with my Cuppow Lid
  • Ordered Crush & Brush Toothpaste tabs. Was really skeptical but I like them.
  • Whole Foods who says their policy is that you have to use the plastic containers they provide.
    • Yes, I know many of you can bring their own containers so not every store follows this policy. 
    • I heard on a recent podcast that some people get those Whole Foods provided plastic containers once, fill in bulk section, bring items home, put into glass containers, wash out the plastic and re-use them next time (& Whole Foods cashier can't tell!) A little sneaky and not so above board? Perhaps. But also if someone uses a plastic bag and sneezes on it before filling- not sure we're any worse off... 
Resources
 

On a Happy Note

  • Oisin's birthday!
  • Attending our friend's wedding, a beautiful rainbow and rocking my David Bridal dress I got at Savers for less than $10!
  • Knitting with Riley and Millie
  • The water balloon toss my Dad organized for our big pool party!
  • 4th of July fun and kayaking with friends.
 
Quote of the Week
It is not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?
– Henry David Thoreau
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_165_-_71219_6.49_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:13pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 164 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Holly Press FibersSunsoaked YarnsKnit Style Yarns
 
 

Off the Needles

 
Bronwyn Shawl (in purple)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Wool in Iris, Heather and Pepper
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
  • 855 meters
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paintbox Socks Colorway Stripes-Autumn
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • 288 meters for Stash dash
 
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fiber Works SHEEPish in the Christmas Pops Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
  • 313 meters
 
 
6/24- 1 month into Stash Dash- 6405 meters. Goal 15k
 

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Spooky color way
  • Needles: US 1 (2.5 mm)
 
 

Brainstorming

 

From the Armchair

 
 

Crafty Adventures

  • Distressing jeans with Laura
  • Showed Riley her skirt with crochet trim. She likes it! I need to finish trim on all pockets.
  • Riley, Ellie and Millie made outfits for Barbies out of balloons (like they did last summer).

KAL News

 
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the July Post
  • Official Rules for 2019 
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 

 Splash Pad Party

Don't forget about our Starting Block Challenge - a way to encourage and support new designers. This KAL's new designer is Anne Beady and her Coral Tides shawl pattern. 


Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Contest, News & Notes 

 GoodReader Requirements:
  • iPad with minimum of iOS 11
  • Purchase & download the GoodReader App from the App Store (Note: this is specifically covering a workflow using GoodReader v5, and not the earlier versions) $5.99 (at time of publishing)
  • Ravelry account (or other place where PDF knitting/crochet patterns can be purchased, stored, downloaded). Understanding of how to find and download a free or paid pattern from Ravelry.
  • Basic knowledge of how to navigate App store and iPad
 
 
 

Life in Focus

  • Build Muscle: I still need to take measurements.
  • Thank you Kristina anotherhornfrog for telling me about Massage Envy App for iPhone
  • Design: knitting a colorwork hat with a My Favorite Murder theme to it.
 
 

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

Asking for help with shame says: You have the power over me.

Asking with condescension says: I have the power over you.

But asking for help with gratitude says: We have the power to help each other.

–Amanda Palmer

------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_164_-_6_26_19_9.22_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:23am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 163 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes, click here for links AND photo.
 
This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Pearl & Plum, Fibernymph Dye Works & Prairie Bag Works
 
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Secret Paths by Johanna Lindahl (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: US I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Malabrigo Ríos in the Teal Feather Colorway (2 skeins)
  • 380 Meters
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Tourmaline Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 297 Meters
 
  • Pattern: to be released along with GoodReader Tutorial
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar & Cream in the Greige colorway
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • 28 Meters
 
 
  • Pattern: Autumnal Mitts by Jo Bangles (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Bijou Spun (75/25 Yak/Merino) DK weight yarn in Color 50-034 (teal/blue
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Started in October 2014. Made the second in 4 train rides & about 30 minutes on a Sunday morning
 
Stash Dash total so far: 4915 Meters
 

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
Bronwyn Shawl (in blues)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn:  Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Superwash
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
Bronwyn Shawl (in purple)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Wool in Iris, Heather and Pepper
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
 
  • Pattern: TBD
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Spooky color way
  • Needles: US 1 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paintbox Socks Colorway Stripes-Autumn
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
 

Brainstorming

Still haven't decided on a summer crochet sweater- so instead I'm just trolling Instagram and Ravelry for other ideas.
 

From the Armchair

Podcasts I'm enjoying
Tune in to hear my review of  WipFit by Cate Carter-Evans. $10 PDF Workbook available on the Infinite Twist website.
 

Crafty Adventures

  • I am crocheting an edging on trim on skirt for Riley with leftover turquoise fingering weight yarn. Began also adding edging to pockets.
  • Purchased a Fiskars Skip Rotary Blade that works with my rotary cutter. Perforates fabric every 1/4 inch.

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the June Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
  • Official Rules for 2019 
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 
 

Events

 Online Event: Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019
  • Watch the friendly competition with Jasmin and me on Instagram: #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter
 
 

Contest, News & Notes

 
Ice Time Hat featured on Style Craft blog on 5/30/19
 
Riley Rose Hat is a 5-colored slouchy hat based on the stitch patterns in my Riley Rose shawl. It is an easy to knit hat project where the stitch patterns and colors change just often enough to keep you from getting bored! Pairs beautifully with the Riley Rose Shawl Cowl.
Get 50% off though 6/15. No coupon code required.
 
 

Life in Focus

  • Building muscle- I am still working hard and learning to better find the fine line between pushing myself hard enough without going too far and causing a real pain flare.
  • Design- the Riley Rose Hat is my 6th pattern of year (Goal=10).

On a Happy Note

  • Met knitting friends at Article 15 Brewing. Saw friend and designer Jenn Sheelen
  • Enjoyed my nieces' Riley and Millie’s dance recital.
  • Kayaking Sunday Whitman’s pond in Weymouth MA

Quote of the Week

“Happiness is essentially a state of going somewhere wholeheartedly, one-directionally, without regret or reservation.”

-- W.H. Sheldon
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_163_-_61319_8.37_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:44pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 162 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: AdoreKnit, Infinite Twist, and Knitters Brewing Company
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly Shawl by Johanna Lindahl Free crochet pattern
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits TTK Splendid sock. 100% SW Merino. Stone Ground colorway. 2 skeins
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Meters: 889
 
  • Pattern: Secret Paths by Johanna Lindahl (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: US I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca, 50% wool, 50% alpaca. 2 skeins
  • Meters: 384
 
  • Pattern: Secret Paths by Johanna Lindahl (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: US H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Madeline Tosh Twist Light in the Opaline colorway (2 skeins)
  • Meters: 884
  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Meters: 192
 
Stash Dash Total (to date): 2349 meters
  

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Bronwyn Shawl (in blues)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn:  Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Superwash
  • Hook: J (6 mm)
 Bronwyn Shawl (in purple)
  • Pattern: Bronwyn Shawl by Toni Lipsey (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Wool in Iris, Heather and Pepper
  • Hook: J (6 mm)

Brainstorming

 

From the Armchair

 

Crafty Adventures

 
  • I made Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies with Emelyn. Click here for the recipe.
  • We also made more melted crayon art. She used a wooden board, I used a canvas. We both made jellyfish. painted the top with watercolor and/or acrylic paint

In My Travels

Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground

KAL News

 
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end (only 3 yards or less can remain). Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the May post 
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 
Artwork - Tattoo Splash - BLUE
 
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
Snack Shack Sponsors
 
 

Events

 
  • 19th Annual Maine Fiber Frolic- June 1 & 2-  Windsor Fairgrounds Rt. 32, Windsor, Maine  June 1 & 2, 2019, 9 am - 4 pm  $5/adult, $8/adult 2 day pass $2/senior adult,  children under  12 are free. (3 hours from me- not sure I'll be going)
  • World Wide Knit in Public Day- Saturday June 8th. Find an event near you!
  • Check out the "Where are Jen & Lisa" Thread in the group to see what events we'll be attending and feel free to note where you're going to find other friends also going!
  •  Online Event: Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019
  • Watch the friendly competition with Jasmin and me on Instagram: #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
  • Ann Weaver is donating all pattern sale income to ACLU through end of June!
  • I ran a little pop-up contest over Memorial Day weekend on Instagram. Check out #getoutsideandcraft It's SO fun seeing what you were up to! Let’s keep it going all year!

Life in Focus

2019 goals- 10 patterns + Build Muscle
 
  • #30x30stopstroke challenge going well. I've exercised 30 minutes a day everyday this month!
  • Design- I've been experimenting with a new shawl shape that was giving me fits. Then I stopped and focused on my goal--10 patterns. Not specific patterns. And I asked myself what if this was easy? That flipped the switch and now I'm swatching a new idea I’m psyched about. Why make it hard?! It's not necessary!
 

On a Happy Note

  • 15th anniversary
    • Went out for beer and early dinner after a very long day at work
  • 30x30stopstroke challenge- so far every day in May
  • Lots of good walks.
  • Trader Joe’s flowers. $5.99 last 2 weeks.

Quote of the Week

Life is denied by lack of attention, whether it be to cleaning windows or trying to write a masterpiece.
—Nadia Boulanger
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_162_-_53019_8.47_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:37am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 161 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Infinite Twist, Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks & Fibernymph Dye Works
 

On the Needles

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Tourmaline Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paintbox Socks Colorway Stripes-Autumn
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: Dragon Belly Shawl by Johanna Lindahl (Free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits TTK Splendid sock. 100% SW Merino. Stone Ground colorway
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)

I'm working on another sample for a new design that will match the Riley Rose Shawl & Riley Rose Cowl.  This hat is knit out of Holly Press Fibers Sheepish minis (5 colors) - Petticoat series.

 

Brainstorming

Just back from beach vacation. Wore my Amma crochet top and my Easy Swim Cover up which is making me want to whip up something else for summer. Any suggestions?
 
 

From the Armchair

 Tune in to hear my review and some highlights from Atomic Habits by James Clear

 In My Travels

 
  • Tune in to hear about our recent trip to Punta Cana- we stayed at the Iberostar Punta Cana. 
  • 20 of us went to celebrate Dan's friend's Dad's 80th birthday. We ordered these silly t-shirts as surprise and he loved them. T-shirts are from Arielle’s Treasures 
Travel Tips
  • Run water through coffee maker (without coffee) to heat it.
  • Finally got our answer to "how much sunscreen is enough?" Answer: 7 days, 2 people, 3 spray sunscreens (plus something for face). Rashguard and hats are a must.
  • Traveling with own water bottle was great. Dan and I filled with ice and water at breakfast lunch and dinner to always have water with us. I brought small container dish soap and cleaned in room with a face cloth.
  • Have a pen handy for immigration and custom forms. Pack an extra for a friend too!
  • Always negotiate price with vendors when prices aren’t listed. It may feel weird - and you have to be willing to walk away. They WILL let you walk away if they’re not going to make a profit.

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the May Post Thank you to Another Crafty Girl for sponsoring in May!
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
Splash Pad Party- runs June 1 through July 31 2019
 
 
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
 
Snack Shack Sponsors

 Events

  • Wool Days at Old Sturbridge Village: May 25-27 9:30a-5p One Day Pass $28 for adults, $26 senior, $14 kids
  • MA Sheep and Wool:May 26& 27 in Cummington, MA Fair Admission:Parking - $10 per car,  $15 for a two day pass
  • 19th Annual Maine Fiber Frolic- June 1 & 2-  Windsor Fairgrounds Rt. 32, Windsor, Maine  June 1 & 2, 2019, 9 am - 4 pm  $5/adult, $8/adult 2 day pass $2/senior adult,  children under  12 are free. (3 hours from me- not sure I'll be going)
  • World Wide Knit in Public Day- Saturday June 8th. Find an event near you!
  • Check out the "Where are Jen & Lisa" Thread in the group to see what events we'll be attending and feel free to note where you're going to find other friends also going!
 Online Event: Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019
  • Watch the friendly competition with Jasmin and me on Instagram: #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter

Life in Focus

2019 goals- 10 patterns + Build Muscle
 
Designs
 
Build Muscle
 
I'm participating in the #30x30stopstroke challenge
The goal is to get as many as of us as possible to exercise for 30 minutes a day for 30 days in May—to help prevent stroke, maintain and increase our physical and mental well-being, and have some fun!
 
 
I've been trying out something new called the "on the clock" challenge
  • I start stop watch on my phone when I first feel hungry. Drink some water and then see if the hunger stays the same or gets stronger. Many times I can go over an hour before anything really changes.
  • It's fun when its a game and a good way to learn more about what my body actually needs. Hunger is not always an emergency.  I can eat any time I like... but its helped me realize I don't always need a snack when I think I might.

On a Happy Note

  • Software upgrade at work went well!
  • Mother's Day- with Mom, Dad, Gram and my cousin Gayle-- played Skipbo, watched Red Sox and had a nice lunch together at Mom's house. Shared stories and photos from our trip.

Quote of the Week

Success is a few simple disciplines, practiced every day; while failure is simply a few errors in judgment, repeated every day.
 
—Jim Rohn
------
 
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_161_-_51419_8.06_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 160 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures (with Riley & Aila)
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  • ---Stay tuned at the end for bonus sleepover audio!
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Whirligig Shrug by Stephanie Japel ($8 knitting pattern. Sizes 3 months to child size 12)
  • Yarn: Worsted weight super wash wool in purple
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
 
  • I repaired the Essentials Mini-PurseI knit for Aila in August 2010 when she was about 20 months old. Hole in bottom. She still uses all the time and asked me to fix it.
  • I mended the doll I made for Aila in 2015 (pattern: Mary, Millie & Morganby Susan B. Anderson). Tacked down her hair. Pulled her eyes to the surface so they can be better seen. De-pilled both items.

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Secret Paths by Johanna Lindahl (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: US I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca, 50% wool, 50% alpaca
 
  • Pattern: Secret Paths by Johanna Lindahl (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: US H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Madeline Tosh Twist Light in the Opaline colorway (bought 2 skeins at Imagine Knit in SF)
 
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
  • Yarn: Mystery yarn reds and greens
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Tourmaline Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

From the Armchair

 
Check out this episode for good information on cleaning your FOs before storing for the winter.  My favorite was about even if you hand wash sock you can use the Drain & Spin cycle on your washing machine to get out excess water. I am going to try it.
 
 

Crafty Adventures

  • Tune in to hear Riley & Aila talk about the crafty fun we had during their birthday sleepovers. Riley turned 11 and Aila 10.
  • We made crayon lip gloss based on this tutorial.
  • Crayon canvas art was fun!
  • Crayon pendants came out cool too.
  • Printed a vacation photo on 5x7 piece of wood at Walgreens 

Knitting in Passing

  • I shared stories of knitting at Chicago, the musical, knitting on the plane to San Francisco and at a brewery in San Francisco

In My Travels

San Francisco: Highlights of thing I mentioned
 

KAL News

 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the April Post & the May Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 

Events

  • NH Sheep and Wool:May 11 & 12 in Deerfield NH Saturday 9am - 5pm&Sunday 9am - 4pm Admission is:  Reg price is $7.  Seniors 65 and older $5 youth 12 and under are free.
  • Wool Days at Old Sturbridge Village: May 25-27 9:30a-5p One Day Pass $28 for adults, $26 senior, $14 kids
  • MA Sheep and Wool:May 26& 27 in Cummington, MA Fair Admission:Parking - $10 per car,  $15 for a two day pass
Online Events:
  • Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KALwill run from May 24-August 24, 2019
  • Jasmin Knitmore & I will be challenging each other again this year. Terms TBD.
  • Watch our challenge Instagram. Support me by using #teambostonjen #beatcuteknitter

Contest, News & Notes

On a Happy Note

  • Girls sleepover. We went to see my best friend (Aila's Mom) and some other friends in a local production of Chicago (my second time).
  • Had a blast at the Boston MFA with my friend Amber and her daughter. Loved seeing Rachel & Amy again!! Thanks again for the tickets!
  • Booked camping in August!

Quote of the Week

Goals are about the results you want to achieve. Systems are about the processes that lead to those results…Goals are good for setting a direction, but systems are best for making progress.
– James Clear
------
 
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_160_-_4_30_19_3.12_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:41pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 159 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

Max's Very Little Giraffe

  • Pattern: A Very Little Giraffe by Annaboo’s House- free crochet pattern available on website not for download
  • Hook: B (2.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover super wash worsted yarn in yellow, brown and cream.

Sunset Stripes Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Sunset Stripes colorway

Grace & Frankie Shawl

  • Pattern: Grace & Frankie by me, Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: 2 skeins of Suburban Stitcher Merino DK: 100% Superwash Fine Merino Wool in the Predictability Colorway. 115 grams = 250 yards
  • Yarn used in sample = 220 grams | 478 yards (473.5 meters)
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)

Kris 40th Birthday Shawl

  • Pattern: Grace & Frankie by me, Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: A Hundred Ravens Vanir DK (100% merino). 2 skeins in the Morello colorway
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)

On the Needles

Rock You Like a Hurricane Socks

  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy yarn in the Rock You Like a Hurricane colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • West Yorkshire spinners for heel only. mauve color.

Dragon Belly Shawl 

  • Pattern: Dragon Belly Shawl by Johanna Lindahl Free crochet pattern
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits TTK Splendid sock. 100% SW Merino. Stone Ground colorway. 2 skeins
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm).

Barcelona/ Porto Socks #1 

  • Yarn: Hjerte Garn. magic Colours Stompegarn jacquard Magic Color: 7749
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Holly Press Fibers Boxy

  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers - Sheepish (fingering weight) base in colorways:  Flower Petal, Rambler in the Wilderness & Seeking You.
  • Assylum Fibers + 2 mystery skeins from stash. Holding fingering held double.

Brainstorming

Whirligig Shrug: baby/child shrug knitting pattern by Stefanie Japel. I knit one back in 2011 for my cousin Bella

In My Travels

I gave an overview of my 10 day trip to Barcelona, Spain and Portugal

Packing in a carry-on for 10 Days

  • 3 pairs pants- black and grey leggings & 1 pair jeans
  • 8 shirts
  • vest with hood
  • denim jacket
  • 1 handknit shawl & 1 cotton scarf
  • sneakers, shortie boots and slide sneakers.
  • Socks, underwear
  • 1 pair of sleep shorts too cold to wear- slept in leggings

I had plenty of clothing. Washed clothes at my friend's house on Friday before we went to Porto. Could have done w/ fewer shirts but it was nice to have variety. Wish I had wool socks for bed.

Lessons Learned

  • Didn’t need my shortie boots. Sneakers and casual sneakers would have been sufficient.
  • Denim jacket and vest were good to mix and match & good layering options.
  • Loved having my prescription sunglasses!
  • I could bring less jewelry if I plan to buy some.
  • I never understood the point of packing cubes-  but my mom sent some over and I'm sold. They really do compress things more than I thought possible and kept my small suitcase organized.

Overall Travel Highlights & Safety Tips

  • Clean out your wallet before you leave. Take photos of what’s in your wallet in case it’s stolen. My wallet stolen before we got to our first apartment. Because it was fast and easy to call and cancel, the thieves didn't get in any charges on my cards.
    • I had new cards & a license by the time I returned home
  • Carry wallet and passport on your person during airport and train travel.
  • Always zip your purse.
  • Keep passport separate from wallet.
  • Was happy I packed Airborne & my water bottle. It was easy to fill and carry (saved me money too).
  • Downloading google map of city in advance was a huge win. You can find your blue dot on map even without WiFi.
  • WiFi in lots of places. Cafes, restaurants etc. makes traveling without cell service possible.
  • Carry-on suitcase was plenty to manage through cobblestone streets and many flights of stairs in metro stations. I might have thought of bringing a larger suitcase if it were "free" but that would have been a bad idea.
  • Brought external battery back up for phone. Used at least most days. My phone was in airplane mode except for 2 small needs for cellular. But I used it to take lots of photos. Internet and apps on WiFi as needed. Bought European 220 plug that supports 2 usb cords which worked for all of the electronics I needed to charge. Worked well but I didn't like that it lights up green when plugged in. Not good if want to charge phone by bed.

Barcelona 

Porto 

  • Love the street art in Porto.
  • Loved that Porto is so walkable. Can’t get too lost.
  • Loved small winding streets with bright colors and laundry hanging.
  • First AirBnB gave us really great recommendations. Ora Viva= favorite restaurant.
  • You can easily hop on a river cruise. They sell tickets right down by the river.
  • Cable cars/ gondola brings you to top of bridge. Fun ride!
  • Fun with Laura taking photos
  • Graham’s port wine tour.

Knitting

  • No trouble with metal or bamboo circulars in any airline.
  • The shawl project & one pair of socks was plenty for a busy trip of sightseeing, knowing I'd buy some more yarn there.
  • The boys loved the giraffes I crocheted for them.
  • Marta’s oldest made me a sign that said "Welcome Home" in English and had a drawing of a girl in a giraffe costume like the stuffy I made Aila for Christmas that he saw in my Instagram feed.
  • If you're traveling, consider bringing  an FO you want great photos of.

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019

  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the April Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media

Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019

Official Rules for 2019 

Splash Pad will open June 1st!

Interesting in Sponsoring the Down Cellar Studio Podcast in 2019? Details for the Splash Pad Party & Pigskin Party can be found here.

There are two types of Splash Pad Sponsorship Opportunities- find more details here

  • Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell Splash Pad Party exclusive items in the month of May (or until July 15th). This is the paid option ($50). There are a max of 18 spots.
  • Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be sell Splash Pad Party Exclusive products . This is free option and there are unlimited spots.

18 total Pro Shop Sponsor spots. 7 already taken! Don't delay!

Anyone getting Splash Pad ready or wanting to share your sponsor products be sure to use  #splashpadparty19 on Instagram!

Thank you to Jodi who started a pre-pool party chat thread in the group! If you're missing your Pigskin Party buddies, check it out.

Events

  • CT Sheep & Wool: April 27 9-4 rain or shine
  • Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival: April 27 from 10a-5p in Waltham MA- $20 general admission ages 13 and up, free for children 12 and under and Gore Place Members. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets available at the gates on the day or online.
  • NH Sheep and Wool: May 11 & 12 in Deerfield NH Saturday 9am - 5pm & Sunday 9am - 4pm Admission is:  Reg price is $7.  Seniors 65 and older $5 youth 12 and under are free.
  • Wool Days at Old Sturbridge Village: May 25-27 9:30a-5p One Day Pass $28 for adults, $26 senior, $14 kids
  • MA Sheep and Wool: May 26 & 27 in Cummington, MA Fair Admission:Parking - $10 per car,  $15 for a two day pass

Online Events

  • Knit Girllls annual Stash Dash KAL will run from May 24-August 24, 2019

Contest, News & Notes

Grace & Frankie Shawl release 

The Grace & Frankie Shawl is an elongated triangular shawl that is worked from the top down. Garter Stitch edges offset by the lace in the center. i-cord edging gives the edge a very polished look and bonus, there's not a single purl stitch in the shawl.

The design of the shawl is inspired by the relationship I have with my best friend, Kris. She often compares us to Grace & Frankie (from the Netflix original series)- best friends who love and need each other but on the surface have nothing in common. You'll see that play out in the shawl where the openness of the lace is offset by the solid fabric of the garter stitch—completely different types of stitches and fabric that complement each other well.

Click here for all of the details.

The Grace & Frankie Shawl is available for $6 on Ravelry. If you signed up for my newsletter you already got an early bird special discount.

Next up Riley Rose Hat. Interested in test knitting? PM me on Ravelry!

Life in Focus

  • 2019 Goals: publish 10 patterns | build muscle!
  • Health, wellness & muscle building.  I talk about how much value Im getting out of the PnP tribe that I’m still a member of.  I'm learning to be patient in building muscle while also listening to my body and going slower than I want to because of my fibromyalgia.
  • Planning: doing weekly plans in Evernote is keeping me organized and helping me prioritize. With that I'm 1 pattern ahead of where I wanted to be at this time of the year.

On a Happy Note

  • 7th Podcast anniversary!
  • We thoroughly enjoyed Riley, Garret & Millie's birthday dinner followed by laser tag! So fun. Who knew?!
  • I had a blast celebrating my best friend's 40th birthday with a birthday dinner of tacos followed by swing dancing. 
  • Dan and I will be going to San Francisco soon!

Quote of the Week

I want to live so densely, lush, and slow in the next few years, that a year becomes ten years, and my past becomes only a page in the book of my life.” 

— Nayyirah Waheed

------

Thank you for tuning in.

Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/159

If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.

I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.

Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.

Email me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com

For website:

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_159_-_41519_6.40_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:50pm EDT

Hope you've enjoyed Episode 158. Not a regular episode- but instead a chat with your favorite co-host, Mom (no regular segments this time). Stay tuned to the very end for a quick word from Dad (wise guy thought we were done).
 
Topics we covered:
  • Mom and Dad took a 2 week vacation to Florida (Orlando, Clearwater & Fort Meyers).
  • We highly recommend the Palm Pavilion  at Clearwater Beach.
  • Mom & Dad went to a Red Sox game at the Jet Blue Park in Fort Meyers at the Mini Fenway. Meanwhile back at home Yawkey Way at Fenway has been renamed.
  • RuMeID- QR code tag for luggage
  • Do you have any tips for how to ensure you have access to your travel documents and photo IDs if your wallet is lost or stolen in travel? Share with us in the Ravelry group!
  • Jen is currently in Europe visiting her friend Marta in Barcelona and checking Porto, Portugal for the first time with her friend Laura.
  • Last time we were in Spain, Mom & I attached bachelorette party. Mom had lots of fun at the zipline/ropes course! 
  • We answered listener questions about whether Mom does any fiber crafts. Yes- she sews! Here are some of her recent projects.
  • For large family gatherings, we recommend frozen stuffed shells with sauce. Harvey’s Ham is also a big hit!
  • Do you know how to use Instagram stories on an Android? Mom could use some help!
 
Find Mom on Instagram- creationsunlimited
 
------------
Contact Information:
 
 

 

 

Direct download: Episode_158_-_32119_8.16_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 157 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Acrobat color way
 
  • Pattern: A Very Little Giraffe by Annaboo’s House- free crochet pattern available on website not for download
  • Hook: B (2.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover super wash worsted yarn in yellow, brown and cream.

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy yarn in the Rock You Like a Hurricane colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Sunset Stripes color way- black + white self patterning, orange, red, yellow and purple.

Brainstorming

  • Travel projects for my upcoming trip to Portugal & Spain.
  • Current plan- 1 pair of socks & 2 skein crochet shawl project for the Dragon Belly shawl by Johanna Lindahl.
  • While in Barcelona & Spain I am planning to buy yarn to bring back (and work on while there as needed)

From the Armchair

 
 

Crafty Adventures

  • I bought 2 king sheets at Savers. Sewed together. Threw them over my Christmas tree + tied on each side. Stored for the season (yes i know its nearly spring)! Quick and dirty but it works!

In My Travels

  • I shared stories from Farm Fiber Days at Russell’s Garden Center
  • Hung out with Lisa, Anne & Ryan
  • Met up with Monique- host of the Knitting on the Run podcast
  • Got such a positive response to my new Ice Time Hat which was really exciting!
  • Lisa is knitting sample for Lisa Dachinger Wools for use at future events!
  • Judy Sullivan from Clover Works Farm who will knitting up an Ice Time hat sample soon too!
  • I bought two skeins of DK from A Hundred Ravens
  • Two skeins SW merino/yak and silk fingering $18 each from Friends in Fiber
  • Nice chatting with Dianne of Lady Dye Yarns

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Official Rules for 2019 
  • Check out the March Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
  • February winner announced!
 
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019

Events

 
 

Contest, News & Notes

I released 2 new patterns on 3/8/19: Ice Time Hat & Ice Time Cowl
 

The Ice Time Hat is a 2-color hat worked with mosaic knitting (so you’re never using more than 1 color in any given row). After the brim, you change colors every 2 rounds which I promise will have you saying “just one more round!” after each one. The pattern effect is achieved using slipped stitches and simple 1x1 cables. Perfect for even an adventurous beginner. If you like the hat, be sure to check out the matching Ice Time Cowl.

Check out #icetimehat on Instagram to find other color combinations that testers + knitters have used.

Yarn

  • Main Color used 80 yards / 73 meters | Contrast Color used 65 yards / 60 meters
  • Sample knit in Legacy Fiber Artz DK. Main Color= Vanilla Bean (cream) & Contrast Color= Grey Gardens (gray)

Finished Size

  • Size: 18 in. / 45.75 cm around & 9 in. / 23 cm tall
  • Fits head: 19-21.5 in. / 48.25-54.75 cm around
  • I’ve found it fits nearly every teen and adult I’ve tried it on. If you need a larger hat, you could try going up a needle size and using worsted weight yarn (be sure to check gauge first of course)
 
Ice Time Cowl

 

Yarn

  • Main Color used: 120 yards / 110 meters
  • Contrast Color used: 96 yards / 88 meters
  • Sample knit in Legacy Fiber Artz DK. Main Color= Vanilla Bean (cream). Contrast Color= Grey Gardens (gray)

Finished Size
* Size: 20.5 inches / 52 cm around & 12 in. / 30.5 cm tall

 

Ask Me Anything

Tune in to hear my answers to these questions!
 
Designs coming up:
  • I am working on a new DK weight triangular shawl design. Nearly done! Yarn: Suburban Stitcher DK in thePredictability colorway! Totally in love with it!
  • Working on a Riley Rose hat idea to coordinate with the cowl and shawl

On a Happy Note

  • Our new couch and recliner were delivered!
  • Garret's 9th Birthday Sleepover
  • ThredUP Goody Box- I got one recently and loved it. If you're interested, please use my referral code.
  • Went to see Gretchen Rubin on her latest Book Tour for Outer Order Inner Calm.
  • Birthday dinner for my friend Megs.
  • I'm still sore from straining muscles in my ribs at Altitude with Millie... and my treadmill died, but I'm finally getting back to the gym and feeling good.
  • Skype with Marta- to do more Barcelona trip prep. Any tips for Porto or Barcelona? Let me know!

Quote of the Week

Be steady and well-ordered in your life so that you can be fierce and original in your work.
—Gustave Flaubert
 
------
 
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_157_-_31219_8.30_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:40pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 156 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes at www.downcellarstudio.com/156
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

 

 

  • Pattern: Frozen’s Olaf Amigurumi Doll by ChiWei Ranck (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: leftover white worsted weight yarn from stash
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
 
Finished Ice Time Hat and Cowl since I last spoke to you. I shared a peek on Instagram to solicit test knitters. Thank you for the overwhelming response! Thank you to Legacy Fiber Artz for the gorgeous yarn!

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Acrobat color way
 
  • I am working on a new DK weight triangular shawl design. Nearly done!
  • Yarn: Suburban Stitcher DK in the Predictability colorway!

Brainstorming

  • Planning to knit another of the DK shawls I am knitting now for my BFF
  • Need to check gift bin to see if I have socks to gift.
  • Need to listen back to see if Garret put in a request for his birthday. I think he wants a sweater... that will have to wait for Christmas!

From the Armchair

 

Things I'm enjoying online:

 
I also did a review of  Stash Fit by Cate Carter Evans

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the March Thread
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 
 

Events

 
 

Contest, News & Notes

 
Check out my Instagram feed if you listen close to the time of recording to enter to win a skein of Neighborhood Fiber Company Studio Worsted in the Rock Creek Colorway and a copy of my Tan House Brook Hat pattern!
 
 

On a Happy Note

  • My brother texted me a photo of him wearing his Ice Time Hat when he opened it!
  • Valentine’s Day- not usually a holiday we celebrate. But this year we did and it was so much fun!
  • Hattie’s 1 year photos!
  • Dinner and Movie with my cousin Jenny- The Upside.
  • Daytona 500 Party!
  • Monday off for President’s Day- the perfect SNOW!
  • Tried the Impossible Burger at Not Your Average Joe’s after hearing about it on The Future of Meat episode of Freakonomics Podcast (Episode 367)
  • Millie's birthday sleepover!

Quote of the Week

Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. – Viktor Frankl
 

Bonus Audio from Millie

She talks about making slime for the first time. The method she learned was similar to this recipe.
 
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_156_-_22519_8.20_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 155 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos, please check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/155 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: King Cole Merino DK in the Irish Navy and Aran (cream) colorways purchased from Yarn's End $7 for 50g skein
  • Pattern: Winter Storm Hat by Gabrielle Vezina
 
Kaiya Mei Hat #1 and #2
  • Pattern: Kaiya Mei by Jamie Hoffman (free knitting pattern)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Worsted weight leftovers.
  • Hat #1- baby girl hat using solid purple and speckled red/blue from Sunsoaked yarn
  • Hat #2- baby boy hat using worsted weight scraps- navy and white. Colorwork patterns from Tin Can Knits Strange Brew ebook.
  • Pattern: Confection Baby Shrug by Tonya Wagner (free knit pattern)
  • Needles: US 8 (5 mm) for the body and US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Surfs Up Colorway
 
  • Yarn:
    • KFI Luxury Indulgence Cashmere in Colors 601 + 602 ( 70% Merino, 25% Nylon, 5% Cashmere goat)- DK
      • Skacel Kenzie- worsted: 50% Wool, 25% Nylon, 10% Alpaca, 10% Angora, 5% Silk
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG heel by Megan Williams
  • Cast on 48 stitches.

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Yoshi & Lucy, Isabel Base in the Commissioner color way (gray with blue flecks)
  • Pattern: Frozen’s Olaf Amigurumi Doll by ChiWei Ranck (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: leftover white worsted weight yarn from stash
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers - Sheepish (fingering weight) base in colorways:  Flower Petal, Rambler in the Wilderness & Seeking You & 3 skeins from stash
  • Holding fingering weight double.

Brainstorming

  • Yarn: Bijou Spun (75/25 Yak/merino)
  • US 6 Needles
  • Pattern: Autumnal Mitts by Jo Bangles
  • Found 1 finished mitts. Makes to sense to finish the pair!

From the Armchair

  • I reviewed the book Finish by Jon Acuff

Crafty Adventures

I made a birthday hat for my niece Hattie. A quick and satisfying project!
 
 

KAL News

 
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the February Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media

Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019

  • We wrapped up the Pigskin Party on February 4th. Grand Prizes will be announced on Episode 156.
  • Tune in to hear if you won a January participation prize.
Special Thank You to this season's Pro Shop Sponsors
 

Events

 

Contest, News & Notes

Life in Focus

I reviewed my January goals, progress, and what's working well for me in achieving my goals for the year!
 

Ask Me Anything

Suzanne emailed to ask "I would be interested in hearing you discuss why you prefer to use Evernote over the Notes app in the iPhone and how you shifted from one to the other. I use the Notes app by default but have been hearing more about Evernote. What are the pros and cons? Do you have any tips if I want to transition? Thank you for being a great knitting friend. "
 
I discussed Evernote and how I use David Allen's Getting Things Done Method
 

On a Happy Note

  • Booked a trip to Barcelona and Porto with my friend Laura. Do you have any tips? Please share in Episode 155 thread!
  • I did a massive clean out of the studio.
  • We bought a new fridge and finally have an ice maker for first time in 10 years.
  • I met up with my friend Robb hadn’t seen in awhile. We went to a jazz class together!
  • I got over the nasty cold/cough that’s going around in about a week. Seems like a record
  • We had our friends' daughters- Carina and Ella- for a sleepover. We had fun painting, building forts with the rubber puzzle piece floor mats. We watched a movie, ate Dan's snowflake pancakes and had a blast!
  • Mom’s birthday & Hattie’s first birthday- celebrated last weekend!

Quote of the Week

“Reviewing your past is one of the best ways to understand who you really are and how you’ll work best on a goal. Keep in mind that perfectionism can’t stand self-awareness. If you’re self-aware, you’re more likely to know and accept your limitations, which means you won’t fall for the promise of a perfect performance.”
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_155_-_2_14_19_8.50_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:39am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 154 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In My Travels
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Tune in at the end to hear some audio from my nieces and nephew- Riley, Garret + Millie.

Off the Needles
 
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted Superwash in Solstice Heather Colorway
  • Needles: US 7 & US 8
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Cast on for XS small size- 19 inches below arms. Used approximately 1100 yards
  • I did a split hem modification. Details can be found in my project page.
 
On the Needles
 
 
  • Pattern: Winter Storm Hat by Gabrielle Vezina
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: King Cole Merino DK in the Irish Navy and Aran (cream) colorways
  • Cast on Newborn size
  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy yarn in the Rock You Like a Hurricane colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Acrobat color way
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5mm)
  • Yarn: Yoshi & Lucy, Isabel Base in the Commissioner colorway
  • Pattern: Confection Baby Shrug by Tonya Wagner (free knit pattern)
  • Needles: US 8 (5 mm) for the body and US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Surfs Up Colorway (stripes in all blues and purples)
Brainstorming
I was initially brainstorming this toy:
Marlene the Bunny Girl- crochet pattern by Joanna Klenmeyer available on Etsy
But after talking with Millie it seems she'd rather an Elsa or Olaf doll instead.
 
 
From the Armchair
 
Race in the knitting community has been a huge topic of conversation on social media lately. In this segment I shared some thoughts about how I'm trying to expand my horizons to be a better informed, more sensitive person. I hope you know that you are ALL welcome here in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Community.
 
An interesting conversation to listen to is on Oprah's Super Soul Conversations Podcast. In December they did a 2 part episode with Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade.  Check it out here: Part 1Part 2
 
 
Knitting In Passing
 
 
Check out this article about the popularity of podcasts- including knitting podcasts!
 
 
 
In My Travels
 
I shared some details from my recent trip to New York City. Some links to things I mentioned:
 
 
KAL News
 
Slay the Stash 2019
  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Check out the January Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
  • Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There’s also a helpful “Start Here” Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
  • Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you’ll track your points. Continue to update your post with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • For every 100 points, you’ll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors;if you use their products, you’ll earn more points per FO
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
  • Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
  • Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty18 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes. 
Events
Contest, News & Notes
 
  • The Box o Balls Mini Skein Swap is going around after some postal delays. If you want to participate (even if you already signed up) come back to the thread to re-confirm.
  • Thank you for all of your support for my first pattern release of the year- the Go with the Flo shawl! The Cast On Party was so much fun! check out #gowiththefloshawl on Instagram to see some fun versions that have been cast on.
  • Thanks to everyone who responded to the call for Test knitters for my upcoming Tan House Brook hat! Testing is going well. If you're interested in test knitting for me in the future, feel free to PM me and I'll keep you posted.
  On a Happy Note
  • I went to see Mary Poppins Returns in theaters. It was delightful.
  • We had my nieces and nephews for a sleepover. My 10 year old niece Riley cast on and began knitting on cowl and became quickly obsessed! 
  • I was fortunate to have a Google hangout with Mary (kinoknits) and Sarah (imaginedlandscapes) about design advice.
  • Free week at gym! I ended up joining with a 10 class per month option!  
  • I bought tickets for Gretchen Rubin's book tour for her new Outer Order Inner Calm book.
  • January purge feels good!! 
Quote of the Week
 
Thinking and doing, doing and thinking--these are the sum of all wisdom. Both must move ever onward in life, to and fro, like breathing in and breathing out. Whoever makes it a rule to test action by thought, thought by action, cannot falter, and if he does, will soon find his way back to the right road.
 
—Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
 
 
 
--------------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_154_-_12819_6.40_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:07pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 153 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Lilliput Yarn
 

Off the Needles

I've been working on some design knitting- a worsted weight Tan House Brook hat! Can't wait to share more details soon.

On the Needles

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted Superwash in Solstice Heather  Colorway 26300 Dark blue with tints of black
  • Needles: US 7 & US 8
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
 
 
 
  • Yarn: Cloudborn Wool Worsted Twist Colorway 27-003 (charcoal gray)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75mm) & 7 (4.5mm)
  • Pattern: Raw Honey by Alicia Plummer $4.00 US (knit pattern)
 
  • Pattern: Lalylala 4seasons Halloween by Lydia Tresselt- 3 pattern combo, Diego-sugar skull, Frank- Frankenstein monster (already made), Brian is a Zombie with brain exposed (haven't made)
  • Yarn: leftover worsted weight yarn
  • Hook: B (2.25 mm)
  • Cast on for Oisin before Christmas and completely forgot about it! 
 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern- OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the 8 Bit Colorway
 
  • Pattern: Winter Storm Hat by Gabrielle Vezina
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: King Cole Merino DK in the Irish Navy and Aran (cream) colorways

From the Armchair

 
84 FOs
23 pairs of socks
17 stuffed animals
10 shawls
6 hats (
6 dishcloths
5 sweaters
4 blankets
3 Christmas Stockings
3 baby toys
2 pairs baby sandals
5 other
 
40 knit versus 44 crochet
19 things for me (same as 2017)
 
 
2018 Podcast/Knit Life in Review- Tune in to hear more
  • 24 episodes
  • Attended Vogue Knitting Live NYC & Rhinebeck
  • Designed + published 2 new patterns:
  • Hosted 3 awesome KALs: Slay the Stash, Splash Pad & Pigskin Party
  • Had a lot of fun with some other craft projects (detailed on the show)

KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019

  • Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins (purchased before 2019) - and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way!
  • Official Rules for 2019 
  • Check out the January Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2019 on Social Media
Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019
 

Pigskin Party

  • Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There’s also a helpful “Start Here” Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
  • Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you’ll track your points. Continue to update your post with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • For every 100 points, you’ll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you’ll earn more points per FO
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
  • Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
  • Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty18 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
In this Episode:
  • Check out Exclusive item thread!-  something you like? get it now. After Super bowl wont' be available for 6 months.
  • Tune in to see if you won a December participation or Interception prize
  • WIPs Interception- details can be found here. If you have any questions, please post in the Questions Thread.
 

Events

Events in/around New England (or within driving distance) that you may want to check out.

Contest, News & Notes

News: Check out this Commuter Knitting in news  story from CNN
 
News: Please check out my first knitting pattern of 2019!
 
Go with the Flo
 
Would you like to test knit a worsted weight hat for me? PM me on Ravelry!
 
 
 

Life in Focus

  • I talk more about my 2019 plans, 2 major goals, and the habits I'll be employing to help me get there.
  • Other things I keep in mind:
    • Your past is your teacher not your fortune teller (what can you learn from previous attempts, failures etc)
    • What can/what do I need to cut out? We often need to prioritize our goal over other less important things. Get clear about that up front.
    • Think ahead to what challenges you'll face and think about how to get around that.
    • Make a list of my fears. Writing them down helps!
    • Be ok with failure. Learn from it and move on. If I miss one day or one workout or one healthy meal, get right back on track at the next possible opportunity. "Growth is not in perfection, but in quickening your recovery time when you inevitably act contrary to your highest interests." – Neil Strauss
  • How I Track Progress
    • Weekly Evernote Note. List Quarterly, Monthly and Weekly Goals at the top. Then start a To-Do list for the week. The "to-do's" I add can be removed, moved to the next week or completed as I see fit.
    • Plan each week on Sunday, look at the calendar and plot out my open time.
    • Daily journaling of progress I'm making towards my two goals- paired with my existing habit of writing down my daily plan for water/food and movement.
 

On a Happy Note

  • Had a lovely visit with my dear friend Laura over the New Year's Holiday weekend
  • Watching: The Affair, Season 4. Escape at Dannemore. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Leah Remini; Scientology the Aftermath, Ray Donovan. The Mule (in theater)
  • Purging and clean out after the holidays!
  • New workout area I set up in the cellar!
  • Tree still up!

Quote of the Week

Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan Press On! has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.
– Calvin Coolidge
 
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Thank you for tuning in.
Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/153
If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.
Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_153_-_11019_6.41_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:23am EDT

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