Down Cellar Studio Podcast
 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 128 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
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

 
  • I used fingering, worsted and bulky weight yarn with varying hook sizes.
  • Soaked finished stars quickly in water. Squeeze out excess water.  Used T pins to pin into blocking board (covered in saran wrap to protect it.
  • Dabbed on Mod Podge Stiffy with a foam brush and wiped into front and back.
 
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
  • Hook: D 3.25 mm
  • Pattern: Groot Amigurumi by Clare Heesh (free crochet)
 
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash- Red
  • Hook: C:
  • Pattern: none
 
  • Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Base (80% SW Merino, 20% Nylon) You've been Elfed Colorway.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Plymouth Encore Tweed Colorway 0217- Black with tan flecks
  • Needles: US 5 + US 7
  • Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
  • Cast on 92- thicker yarn
  • 6 1/2 inches before decreases but I think that was too short. My gut told me 7 inches but the only notes in my Rav Project pages said 6.. now I know.
 

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn:  Dyenamics Yarn Supersock Fingering in Zombie Colorway - gray base with darker gray (some blue tones) blips of red and green
  • Needles: US 1.5
  • Pattern: OMG Heel
 
  • Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5
  • Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel
 
 
New Design for Handspun
 
 
  • Pattern: Ninilchik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter
  • Yarn: Cloudborne DK, Fiberstory DK + Gale's Art Super Star DK
  • Needles: US 4 & 6

Brainstorming

  • Fingering Yarn held double for socks. Christmas yarn leftovers with white or gray
  • Siksak Hat
  • Baby prop- if you have any favorites please let me know!

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

 
Before Christmas I spent a crafty afternoon with my best friend Kris!
  • My Christmas making was done so I focused on finishing and getting things unstuck.
  • Finished sewing in the ribbon to cover the steeks on my cardigan
  • Ripped out toe on a pair of socks that I made too short.
  • I fixed granny square jacket my mom made decades ago so my niece can wear it...
  • Did finish a few of those crochet stars because they were fun...
  • And Kris got some sewing done while we chatted!
 

KAL News

 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Pigskin Party KAL
  • 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 this 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
  • 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
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

Slay the Stash 2018

  • 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 that are soooo pretty we don’t want to touch them. In 2018, we are turning those sacred skeins into beautiful projects you can enjoy-- and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! Full details and rules can be found here.
  • January Post
  • Use and follow #slaythestash2018 on Social Media

 Events

Life in Focus

Happiness Project
  • Gave my final thoughts on the December Project.
  • Did a 2017 Happiness Project Review.
  • I mentioned that I recently listened to an Episode of Slow Your Home where Cait Flanders was talking about her year long spending ban. Link above if you want to check that out.
  • I am still planning my 2018 Goals--but if you want some recommended reading in the meantime....

Ask Me Anything

  • Citric Acid Discussion continued....
    • Yes, citric acid is safe to use in containers you eat from. Here's an article from Livestrong
    • Color catchers- are another great idea. I use these sometimes too!
    • Citric acid works to set color in wool but does not work for cellulose fibers (cotton, e.g.).

On a Happy Note

  • Funky Nutcracker- my oldest niece Emelyn was Nutcracker. and she did a great job! 
  • We ended our Crafty Afternoon with a trip to Ann Taylor loft. Kris, Aila and I got a set of 3 bracelets with our initials for free! FUN!
  • Enchanted Village: Aila and I squeeze in a visit and got to see Santa!
  • Riley, Garret + Millie's Christmas Sleepover
  • I auditioned for a local production of the musical Caberet and got in. Eeek! This is me knitting to calm my nerves before auditions
  • Christmas!
  • Star Wars!
 

Quote of the Week

"I just want to highlight one perspective I’ve found very useful over the years: The value of goals is not in the future they describe, but the change in perception of reality they foster, in the present."
-David Allen of Getting Things Done
 
 
Bonus audio from Riley, Garret and Millie at the end. Spoiler alert- it gets especially silly at the end. It may not make a lot of sense because I started recording part way through a conversation but the kids' laughter (especially Garret's) is especially infectious and I wanted to share!
 
------
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_128__Reflecting_on_2017.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 127 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • 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: Plum Deluxe, Imagined Landscape DesignsNekozuki Knits
 
In this episode you heard a promo of Tightly Spun, a new podcast starting up in January 2018 by Emily Straw. Click the link for details!
 
 

Off the Needles

  • Pattern: Greedo by Lucy Collins in the Star Wars Even More Crochet (kit)
  • Yarn: Vanna's choice Sage (face), cloudbourn DK (held double) for turquoise, Vanna's choice mustard
  • Hook: C
 
  • Pattern: 4 Seasons Easter by Lydia Tresselt 6.77 US (3 patterns- chick, bunny and sheep)
  • Yarn: Sprightly Worsted
  • Hook: C
 
  • Pattern: Turn a Square Hat by Jared Flood
  • Yarn: Malibrigo Rios in the VAA Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 for brim, US 7 for body
  • Cast on 92 stitches (less than called for). I always do stockinette longer than called call for- 6 inches instead of 5 before decreases.
 
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Amethyst Stripes Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Baker Street Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 + US 7
  • Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
  • Cast on 96 sts with US 5
  • 6 inches before starting decreases
  • Finished hat- 56 grams | 42 grams remain
 
Poppy Troll Hats
  • Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
  • Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
  • Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella:1-4 year old child size.
 5EB43500-0818-42B1-8998-E7E40B1398EF
  • Gray and purple Poncho and matching Skirt
  • Pink skirt and matching scarf
  • Yarn: Fingering Weight Scraps
  • Hook: C

On The Needles

 
  • Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
  • Needles: US 7 & US 9
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
  • Will have to edit these needle sizes when I cast this back on. I had to rip out because my sweater was 68 inches instead of 64. Will cast back on soon!
 
  • Yarn: Plymouth Encore Tweed Colorway 0217- Black with tan flecks
  • Needles: US 5 + US 7
  • Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
  • Cast on 9 (thicker yarn)
 
  • Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Base (80% SW Merino, 20% Nylon) You've been Elfed Colorway.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Free pattern from the Persia Lou Website 
  • Yarn: scraps of fingering, worsted and bulky
  • Hooks: Various sizes from C up to match yarn size.
  • Used Mod Podge Stiffy to stiffen
 

Crafty Adventures

 Photo Album Project with Kiddos:
  • Simple Stories Sn@p Album 6x8 from Joann $18.99 (got on sale/with a coupon)
  • Came with pages in there, divided page protectors and dividers with tab
  • What I'd do differently next time: create the title page and left space for them to write their names and the years. Written more prompts for them to fill in the blanks. They were mostly interested in decorating not writing but that's understandable :)
 

KAL News

 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
    • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per F
    • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
  • November Participation Winners
  • November Interception Winner
  • December Interception Reminder

Life in Focus

Happiness Project
December Focus: Listen to my body
  • Going really well. Concrete, simple, can adjust to a busy season and I had ideas at the ready. That seems the key to success.
  • Tracking something I'm doing every. Here are some examples: Stretching, foam rolling, going for a walk, going to bed early, reading before bed to quiet my mind, tea, no stress knitting. I took a bath with epsom salt and candles.
 

Ask me Anything

In this episode I answered questions from Ravelry user knittergirlkatie about using citric acid to set color into sock yarn.
  • I use the Knitmore Girls Tutorial
  • I think it's helpful especially when using multiple colors/skeins in your project and especially for handdyed yarns. I haven't had as much bleeding/absorption with commercial dyed yarns but be careful with reds, blues, purples and neons.
 

On a Happy Note

  • We had a 4 kid holiday sleepover with Eme (13)/ Oisin (9), Will (10), and Aila (8). We celebrated Dan's birthday, decorated the tree and enjoyed pancakes!
  • Emelyn's school concert. I had an extra sock my bag so gave it to Megg (Eme's mom) so she and knit together. It was lovely!
  • A non-stressful holiday season. There are a couple more things I'd like to do and things I'd like to get, but shopping is mostly done. Waiting on a few things to come in by mail so I can wrap- which I'll enjoy doing. Turns out I'm a Grinchalong fail. Still making gifts because I can...and my heart keeps growing 3 sizes.

Quote of the Week

 
"Certainty is the opposite of growth."
 
 --Kathleen Trotter on The Other F Word Podcast
 
 
Stay curious out there folks!
 
------
 
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_127__Stuffies_and_Self_Care.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 126 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 sponsors: Queen City Yarn, Fancy Image Yarn and Prairie Bag Works
 
 

Off the Needles

 
 
 
Christmas Stockings
 
  • Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn in the Depths of Space Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5
  • Pattern: OMG Heel
 
  • Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist
 
  • Kylo Ren pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
  • Hook: C
  • For Will
 
  • Admiral Ackbar pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
  • Hook: C
  • For Will
 
  • Poe Dameron pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
  • Hook: C
  • For Garret
 
  • Pattern: BB8 pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash + unknown white acrylic
  • Hook: C
  • For: Garret
 
  • Pattern: Lando Calrissian by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Yarn: Worsted/DK scraps
  • Hook: C
  • For Oisin
 
  • Pattern: improvised
  • Yarn: Worsted/DK scraps in turquoise and gray
  • Hook: C
 

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
  • Needles: US 7 & US 9
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
 
Poppy Troll Hats
  • Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
  • Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
  • Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella: 1-4 year old child size.
 
 
 
  • Pattern: Turn a Square Hat by Jared Flood
  • Yarn: Malibrigo Rios in the VAA Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 for brim, US 7 for body
  • Cast on 92 stitches (less than called for). I always do stockinette longer than called for. I think 7 inches.
  • For my boss for Christmas. He mentioned in passing he needed a hat. Not in a beggy way... can't believe I've never knit for him. Good on the go project.
 
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Amethyst Stripes Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Realized I had socks for all my usual suspects at Christmas except my BFF. Already had the first of these done from our trip to FL so I cast on the second. Past the heel. Knit on these at Nutcracker which is special and she'll appreciate. Millie also knit on these at Thanksgiving which is fun.
 

Brainstorming

In My Travels

I share about my adventures to Baltimore to take classes at Neighborhood Fiber Company with the incredibly talented Ann Weaver.
 
Some highlights!
 
  • Meeting Ann and soaking up a bit of her incredible knowledge!
  • Nicki, Beverly and I all wore our Lush Cardigans and Electric Slide socks. So fun! Made the day seem even more special!

  • I learned how to steek a sweater!
  • I got to spend time with 2 of my listeners in the class. MDQuilter (Beth) and Kaikaknits2 (Kaarina). Photo of Kaarina and me in our half finished sweaters here:
  • Lunch: Mount Vernon Marketplace
  • Breakfast at 9a at R House with Mary (Kino Knits Designs + Podcast) and Ashley and Tara from Misadventures in Knitting Podcast
  • Seeing Nicki's MEGAROW Shawl in person.
  • Learning a no-sew zipper installation technique
 

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
Prizes:
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Pigskin Party KAL
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
    • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
 
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
 

Events

  • The Down Cellar Studio Podcast will be kicking off a new year-long KAL for 2018.
  • If you're a yarn dyer interested in sponsoring- click here for details!
 

Life in Focus

Happiness Project
November: Gratefulness
  • I've left positive reviews from podcasters I enjoy.
  • I'm working on a photo/journaling book through Picaboo
 

Ask Me Anything

This time I answered a question from cynalune about how I got started podcasting and whether I'll make another crochet garment.
 

On a Happy Note

  • Yarn in the mail from Anotherhornfrog!
  • Reordered tea from Plum Deluxe!
  • $1 cards at Trader Joe's . Did you know?!
  • Thanksgiving + my friend Laura visiting
  • Aila made her debut in Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker. Tune in at the end of the show for audio of she and I talking about it a few weeks ago. (Aila is the black sheep in the center of the photo)
  • Black Friday shopping with Mom and Laura. I'm nearly done shopping!

Quote of the Week

 
Stillness is our most intense mode of action. It is in our moments of deep quiet that is born every idea, emotion, and drive which we eventually honor with the name of action. We reach highest in mediation, and farthest in prayer. In stillness every human being is great.
-Leonard Bernstein
 
 
 
------
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_126-_12_FOs_of_Christmas.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 125 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found here. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Plum Deluxe Tea, Yarn Love, and Sunsoaked Yarns
 

Off the Needles

Piggie

 
  • Pattern: Zipzip Bunny by Elif T (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (gray)
  • Hook: C
 
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Garret asked for knee socks that are in two pieces. Worked top down two at a time on two different needles, magic loop. US 1.5. Cast on 52. A couple inches down I decreased by 4 to get to 48. Allow enough room for his calf.
  • Shortie socks also cast on 48, did OMG heel and 7 inch foot.
  • Decreased down to 10 sts per needle for toe

On the Needles

 
Poppy Troll Hats
  • Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
  • Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
  • Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella:1-4 year old child size.
 
Christmas Stockings
  • 3 more under way: 5 of 6 pieces done. Really thought all 6 were done until I went to block.
  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • For: Manny, Juliana and Margaux
  • New snowman appliqué pattern
 
 
 
  • Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Brainstorming

Inspiration from Rhinebeck:
 

From The Armchair

Crafty Adventures

  • I am working on my annual family photo calendars that I create and order through Picaboo. Last year they ran amazing deals on Cyber Monday so check them out.
  • This year's process was easier because my photos are in Google Photos and are searchable. New to Google Photos? Check out the Heart of Photo Fabulous Class to learn about it (it's free!)

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Pigskin Party KAL
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
    • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
      • Find the coupons here.
    • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 

Contest News and Notes20171104-IMG_1546

I'm excited to introduce my latest shawl design the MEGAROW Shawl now available on Ravelry for $6.00 US. (on sale for $3 until 11/25)
 
The MEGAROW Shawl is a top down crescent shawl that is designed for a main color, a gradient and a contrast color for the border. The body and border are done all in garter stitch. The gradient is worked in a very simple lace stitch. Short rows are worked in the garter sections so you don't even need to worry about picking up wraps.
 
 
Finished Size: 120 inches/305 cm wide and 18 in/46 cm deep at center
 
Yarn:
  • Color A: 350 yards/320 meters (main color)
  • Color B, C, D, E & F: 500 yards/ 457 meters (gradient)
  • Color G: 260 yards (238 meters) (border)
  •  Total: 1110 yards/1015 meter

Life in Focus

Happiness Project- November: Gratefulness
  • I am working on a photo book with journaling in Picaboo focused on gratefulness
  • Leaving podcast reviews to show others I'm grateful.

On a Happy Note

  • We had a blast at our family Halloween Party and Trick or Treating with the kids. There is some audio Millie wanted to record while we were trick or treating.
  • I had a great time at a surprise party for my friend Melissa's birthday
  • Dan and I enjoy dinner with my cousin from NH and my parents
  • My good friend Laura is coming for Thanksgiving this year!
  • The temps have really dropped and its properly cold enough to snuggle up in hand knits.

Quote of the Week

“Do not look back. And do not dream about the future, either. It will neither give you back the past, nor satisfy your other daydreams. Your duty, your reward—your destiny—are here and now.”
-- Dag Hammarskjold
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_125__MEGAROW.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 124 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Daisy Girl and Company & Atelier de Soyun
 

Off the Needles

  • I helped my friend Nicki with bind off her MEGAROW shawl (my new shawl design that will be published soon). She taught me how to use a crochet hook as your right needle when doing a bind off it! It was so much fun, I did most of the bind off for her.
  • Here's a link for a tutorial that looks similar to what she taught me.

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: FLK Heel
 
Christmas Stockings for: MannyJuliana and Margaux
  • 3 more under way: 5 of 6 pieces done. Really thought all 6 were done until I went to block.
  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Andre Sue Sock Blank
  • Needles: US 1 (2 mm)
  • Pattern: TBD
  • Started before 2016 rhinebeck. Didn't fit so I ripped back and brought it with me this year. I am using 64 stitches on US 1 seems to work best for me for sock blanks.
 
  • Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
  • Needles: US 7 & US 9
  • Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
 

Brainstorming

  • Aila Giraffe= done
  • Millie: Elephant and Pig for Millie (she also wants a person)
  • Emelyn: sheep
  • Riley- not sure what she wants- I made her legwarmers already
  • Will, Oisin, Garret- Star Wars guys (Garret also wants more Ninjas so I may do one or two of those if time allows.) Patterns from: Star Wars Even More Crochet
  • Poppy Hats for Ella and Carina
 

Crafty Adventures

Mom, Megg and I finished up Emelyn's Marie Antoinette Costume so we shared more about the process. We were all so thrilled with the results- especially Eme!

Knitting in Passing

Tune in to hear about some funny reactions I've gotten when knitting in public.

In My Travels

2017 Recap
 
 

KAL News

 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

Pigskin Party KAL

  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

Events

November 4 + 5; 9a-5; 9a-3p
I won't be able to attend. 
 
Vogue Knitting Live NYC: January 12-14, 2018
  • I'll be taking three classes
  • Off the Charts: Master Using and Creating Charts with Tin Can Knits-Friday 1/12 at 9a
  • Grab Bag of Easy and Impressive Lace Stitch Patterns-Sat 1/13 at 2p
  • Shawl Shapes on Sunday 1/14 at 9a

On a Happy Note

  • Photo shoot with Emily. Tune in to the end for audio that Riley and Millie asked to record
  • Halloween! Mom is surprising Millie who said she should be Luna girl (to Millie's Owelette)
  • Mom's eBay store is so busy she's looking for help with listing. If you're looking to earn money on commission, email her at shopcreationsunlimited at gmail dot com
  • Audio at the end of Emelyn and I discussing her Marie Antoinette costume back in September
 
------
 
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_124__Rhinebeck_Recap_with_Mom.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:35pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 123 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
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Joy in RuggingWoodsy and Wild. and Colorful Eclectic
 
Want to chat about this episode? Come chat in the Ravelry group. Link here

Off the Needles

 
  • Yarn: The Periwinkle Sheep in Witch’s Cauldron Colorway and Woolbearer’s Gradient Set in Magenta (leftovers from my new crescent shawl).
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm) and US 3 (3.25mm)
  • Pattern: Sockhead Slouch Hat by Kelly McClure

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy Stripes in Amethyst Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Pattern
 
  • Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: FLK Heel
 
Christmas Stockings: 3 more under way.
  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
Knitting on a new 3 color shawl design and swatched another idea!
 

Brainstorming

  • Aila is going to be a lamb in Nutcracker. Ornament keepsake. Suggestions?
  • Millie wants pig and elephant from Piggy and Gerald- crochet pattern suggestions?

From the Armchair

Last episode I asked about ideas on doing a contrast color for a Fish Lips Kiss heel. Thanks Teena for telling me about this post in which the designer answers the question. Seems really simple.

Crafty Adventures 

Mom, Megg, Emelyn and I made progress on Emelyn's epic Marie Antoinette costume for Halloween.

In My Travels

Dan and I visited with family in Largo, FL. I also visited these yarn shops:

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
Prizes you could win: Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon & Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Pigskin Party KAL
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
    • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
  • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
 
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
  • Announced this year's 10 Grand Prize Packs
  • Announced Kick it Off with Color- Sept Interception Winners (thank you to sponsor Yarn Love) and September Huddle/Instagram Winners
  • Don't forget about our Ornament Interception which runs through 10/31. Thank you to Sponsor: Knitters Brewing Company
 
 

 Events

 
  • Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck NY
  • Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus Kingston, N.Y.
  • NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY

Life in Focus

Happiness Project:  October: Time & Energy
  • Ironically too busy to focus on this. Have been really focused on using my Evernote for GTD system. Reviewing it regularly and making sure I know what I need to do; it has definitely helped me keep my sanity.

On a Happy Note

  • Woodchopping Weekend- tractor rides. delicious fall foods. 
  • Dinner for Dad’s birthday at a great new local restaurant.
     
  • Florida Trip highlights
     
  • Millie sleepover!

Quote of the Week

Most misunderstandings in the world could be avoided if people would simply take the time to ask, ‘What else could this mean?’”
― Shannon L. Alder
 
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_123__Travel_Knits.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:21pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 122 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • 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: Imagined Landscapes and Fibernymph Dyeworks
 

Off the Needles

  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Main Color: Baah Ja Lolla, Gradient set from Woolbearers, Border in Periwinkle Sheep
  • Pattern: a new design I have out to testers now. I hope to release it in October.

On The Needles

  • Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: TBD
 
  • Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist
  • Yarn: Dancing Dog Dyeworks Twist Sock in the Holly Jolly colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist
 
Poppy Troll Hat x2
  • Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
  • Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
  • Carina: 5-10 year old child zie
  • Ella:1-4 year old child size.
  • Both hats done. Earflaps on. Ears made. Need to sew on. Wash them. then will add eyes and hair

From the Armchair

  • I talked about this article: What The Health Review
    • Bottom line: the What the Health Documentary cites sources that aren't reliable research studies and is, if nothing else, at least cause for a second look.
  • Check out this great new audio podcast: (mis)adventures in knitting- Audio Podcast hosted by Ashley + Tara, based out of Baltimore, MD
  • In the next episode, I am going to talk about the Four Tendencies Book by Gretchen Rubin and nd knowing our own tendency can help us accomplish our crafty goals... Invite you to take the quiz on Gretchen Rubin's website before the next episode so you know your tendency.

Crafty Adventures

  • I bought a dress and petticoat from Goodwill for $20 to make Emelyn a Marie Antoinette halloween costume for her last year of Trick or Treating.
 

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
 
  • Declare a WIP that you started June 30th or earlier but haven't yet finished within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
    • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

Life in Focus

Happiness Project: September--- Learn new things
  • I learned a lot from making my first crochet shawl.
  • Trying the FLK heel was a great learning moment for me. I want to try another heel in the near future. What do you recommend? Vanilla is the New Black?
October: Time & Energy
  • Goal: Look at ways I'm wasting time and energy & reset.
  • Think hard about what I do. Ask "why" more often. When I have an automatic thought- don't just act on instinct. See what really makes sense. Get off auto pilot.

On a Happy Note

  • Took a Friday off to go Outlet shopping with my best friend, Kris!
  • I brought my niece Emelyn to Stitch House during the Greater Boston Yarn Crawl. She knit on her cowl for a little bit before we headed north to go apple picking.
  • Met Kris, Matt, Aila and Will for an unseasonably warm day of Apple picking at Applecrest in Hampton Falls NH. Every year they add something- this year it was a sunflower maze. So beautiful. Only regret was not taking photos earlier in the day. They started turning away from the sun as the day went on.
  • Congrats to Mom and Dad on their 40th anniversary!
  • Finished my first session of Hiit Classes at the gym near work. It was brutal but I definitely feel stronger. I was able to sign up for the 3 out of the next 8 I'm able to go to.
  • Ordered 12x12 lay flat photo book Picaboo and love it!
  • My grandmother is on Facebook and sent me this cute message the other day! Made my day!
  • I got a haircut. Loving this shorter look.
  • My niece Aila is going to be performing in the Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker this winter as a lamb.

Quote of the Week

“Children think not of what is past, nor what is to come, but enjoy the present time, which few of us do.”
-- Jean de La Bruyère
 

________________

Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_122__Kisses_Kids_and_Costumes.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:20pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 121 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Knitty Kitty BagsMediaPeruana, Knitters Brewing Company
 

Off the Needles

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: sock yarn scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Cast on first sock
 
  • Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist
  • This was my #DCSpigskinparty17 Cast on!
 
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
Poppy Troll Hat x2
  • Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
  • Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Crescent shawl that calls for 1 main color, a gradient set and a contrast color for the border. Over 800 yards (further details TBD)
  • If you are interested in Test knitting, please email me (downcellarstudio at gmail dot com

Brainstorming

Like you, I've been prepping for Pigskin Party '17, by finding all of the things I've purchased from our amazing sponsors (and ordering some more)
Crochet shawls I'm debating
 
Veronika Cardigan by Shannon Cook; $6.95 US
 
 
GoodReader class: I am going to begin working on a course I can offer to those who want to learn how to use GoodReader for knitting without having to come to an in-person class with me. Please come share your feedback and tell me how you learn best.

From the Armchair

 
I learned a lot about pleasure versus happiness from these podcasts/articles about/by Dr. Robert Lustig
 

Knitting in Passing

 

My cousin Patrick loved the stocking I made for his new daughter. When he opened it, my cousin Grant commented how he has one but his younger sisters don't which made him sad. I signed up to make some for them too!

KAL News

  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
New Prizes:
  • Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • At the top of the thread you can click on "Projects" to see what everyone has been working on. 532 projects that have been worked on, many finished since January! That's amazing.
 
Pigskin Party KALArtwork - Pigskin Party Final2
  • 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.
  • For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
    • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • 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 #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
  • Over 240 people on Roster as of 9/12
  • A few things: you do not have to watch Football to participate. You can craft anytime not just during football games. You can post your points for your FOs in the End Zone dance thread anytime you want. Don't have to do it immediately after you finish.
  • Favorite Post in End Zone Dance Thread: Instructions (click gray heart- find it in your Favorites in your Notebook)
  • Florence of Designs of Acadia has created a Pigskin Party Logo Tote Get yours today. They're only $12.
  • Monday Night Scavenger Hunt
    • Every Monday night Lisa will post a clue to an item by one of our sponsors. You have until the following Monday night to look up that clue and find the item.
  • Kick It Off With Color : Our First Interception. Thank you to Sponsor: Yarn Love Yarn
    • Most football teams have 2-3 colors in their uniforms! Let's get inspired by all that color and get some colorful projects off the needles/hooks.
    • Requirements:
      • Finish a project of at least 50 yards before 9/30 that contains at least 2 different colors
      • The 2 colors can be found within 1 yarn. You can use multiple yarns. Totally up to you.
      • If you have to ask if its two separate colors it's probably not. Blue and light blue are not two different colors. Blue and orange are two separate colors.
      • These colors do not have to be your team colors, NFL colors or even any sports teams colors. It's just the kicking off point for color combinations but don't limit yourself.
      • Project can be knit, crocheted, woven, spun or machine knit.
      • Max of 2 entries per person.
Prizes:
  • 2 lucky winners (pulled by Random Number Generator from this thread) will get to choose a skein of yarn of his/her choice from Yarn Love Yarn

Events

Life in Focus

September Happiness Project: Learning

  • Labor Day free streaming on Craftsy
  • Thanks to  knittykitties  for gifting me a Creative Bug 3 month subscription. I can't wait to try out a few classes.
  • Thanks to DCAlaneknits for posting in the Episode 120 chat thread with this link to Mother Bear Face Tutorials: 2 Knit Lit Chicks Podcast.
  • I'm looking forward to watching and learning about the Philosopher Wool Technique for 2 handed colorwork knitting. Planning ahead for colorwork baby sweater I want to cast on soon
  • I watched a Podcasting 101 on Creative Live (9/11).
  • Crochet Shawl (will be a first for me)
  • Fish Lip Kiss Heel (will be a new heel for me)
  • Thank you to Lisa for letting me borrow her spindle and some fiber and teaching me basics so I could play with spinning at home.
  • Won't get all of these done in next 15 days or so, but having found resources and prepped things out will set me on the right path and I'm really enjoying this focus.
 

On a Happy Note

  • My cousin Kara's wedding. So much fun! Wore my new black lace dress. Thanks for all of the compliments!
  • HIIT training at gym. Really hard, but the 30 minutes goes by really fast. twice a week for 4 weeks. In the third week now.
  • Fall coming. Very cool in the mornings here. My parents pool is closed (sniff) and I've had two weekends at home to get things done. Feels good. Mostly why I've gotten so much shawl design work done.
  • Family dinner and campfire time!
  • Gretchen Rubin's new book The Four Tendencies was released on 9/12. I was lucky to get tickets to the first stop on her book tour that night in Cambridge. Went with my friend Kim. We've read all of Gretchen's books, listen to her Happier Podcast religiously and use her framework all the time at work. As project managers we don't have staff who report to us. Have to use influence and persuasion to get others to do things for us.
 

Quote of the Week

“Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply. When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with the intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words.”
- Roy T. Bennett
 
 

------------

Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_121__Learning_All_The_Things.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 7:02pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 120 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Skeindalous Yarn in the Sophia Base (MCN) in the Wesley’s Sweater color way (
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • 64 grams-  256.3 meters
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Gris colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • 69 grams-  296.5 meters
 
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Eclipse Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • 75 grams-  227.7 meters
My Stash Dash Total (as compared to last year)
 
Frankensocks #5 and #6
  • Yarn: sock yarn scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
 
  • Yarn: sock yarn scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
 
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Garret asked for knee socks that are in two pieces. Worked top down two at a time on two different needles, magic loop. US 1.5. Navy Cuff (Cascade Heritage Sock), then rainbow. Cast on 52. A couple inches down I decreased by 4 to get to 48. Allow enough room for his calf.

 

Crafty Adventures

 
  • Aila made a memory/memento box out of scrapbooking supplies and a photo calendar
  • Riley, Aila and Millie all made tulle tied flip flops: Here's a link to a tutorial that is similar to what we did.
  • Aila painted some pottery at the South Shore Pottery Shop
  • I am nearly finished with my January-June Project Life Pages!

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
  • Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
 

4th Annual Pigskin Party KAL

 
 
Details Discussed on This Episode:

Events

Contest, News and Notes

I announced the winner of the Yeksa Shawl by Janine McCarty of the Yarn and Ewe Girl Podcast

Life in Focus

My September Plan: Learning 

  • I'm thinking about taking a Craftsy class, trying new knitting or crochet techniques, taking out some library books. Do you have any suggestions from me?

On a Happy Note

 
  • We saw America and 3 Dog Night at South Shore Music Circus.
  • My friends came to visit for the weekend and we celebrated my grandmother's birthday.
  • I enjoyed the Solar Eclipse, but even funnier is this video Total Eclipse of the Heart Literal Video.
  • I met up with some knitting friends at Slum Brew in Assembly Row Somerville. 
  • We've had lots of summer fun with the nieces and nephews. Sleepovers, crafts, dance camps etc!
  • Dan and I kayaked the North River. The first half was amazing. The rest was a struggle but we survived! Ha!
  • The kids contracted lice and so kindly shared it with me. Sigh. If you ever have the misfortune, my recommendation is to go to a professional place like this instead of using the drugstore shampoos!
  • Signed up for hiit training for 4 weeks with my work friends. We survived!

Quote of the Week

"Happiness and misery consist in a progression towards better or worse; it does not matter how high up or low down you are, it depends not on this, but on the direction in which you are tending."
 
-- Samuel Butler
 
Bonus audio from the nieces at the end!
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_120__Crafting_Camp_and_Kayaking.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:26pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 119 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contests, News and Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Jujuy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles:US 5 (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: O Wool O-Wash Fingering- 3 colorways
  • Stash Dash= motivation to finish it!  798.4 meters
 
 
  • Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Sock in the Joyful colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Used 291.9 meters of yarn
 
Stash Dash Total 5,520.2meters
 
 

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Skeindalous Yarn in the Sophia Base (MCN) in the Wesley’s Sweater color way
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Cast on for our Saco River trip.  First sock finished. Second sock past heel. Will finish before Stash Dash ends on August 20th.
 

Brainstorming

  • Finish Reese Stocking
  • Crochet Erik's Stocking
  • Lengthen  Construction Zone sweater
  • Finish at least 1 pair of socks before Stash Dash ends
  • Red Monster for Will
 

From the Armchair

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
Splash Pad Party 2017 Winners Announced!
The Pigskin Party KAL kicks off September 7th. More details in the next episode but for now check out these threads.

Events

 
  • Stash Dash KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls Podcast runs May 26-August 20, 2017
  • Adirondack Wool and Arts Festival: September 23 & 24
  • VT Sheep and Wool: September 30 & October 1, 2017
  • Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck NY
  • Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus Kingston, N.Y.
  • NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY
  • A Weekend with Ann Weaver: Steeking and Finishing at Neighborhood Fiber Company November 18 + 19
  • I am going to see Gretchen Rubin on her book tour on September 12th at the Brattle Theater. To see if the tour is coming to a location near you check out this website. There you can find more details about Gretchen’s new Four Tendencies Book, her other books and her podcast (all of which I enjoy and find incredibly useful).
 

Contest, News and Notes

 
Yeksa Shawl by Janine McCarty of the Yarn and Ewe Girl Podcast on YouTube

Life in Focus

 
August-Happiness Project focus: home and love
  • Getting back on track with minimizing our/our home's impact on the environment because that is important to me
    • Began using my reusable iced coffee cup again
    • Set of 8 metal straws from Amazon
    • Made a kit for my purse with fork, knife, spoon, cloth napkin and metal straw. haven’t used it yet, but I’m excited for the opportunity.
    • Talking with Dan about reducing our plastics- buying items with less/no packaging or glass/tin containers.
  • Decorating our home and making it feel more homey--- put this on the back burner until fall

On a Happy Note

 
  • I bought gorgeous black lace dress for my cousin's wedding.
  • I went to see the Red Sox with my brother. They didn't play because of rain but we had a great night.
  • Mom and Dad asked us about going to dinner and we ended up spending 2+ hours with an old childhood friend and her husband who saw us check in on Facebook!

  • Dan and I went camping at the State Park behind our house as a test run for our Saco River Trip.
  • Saco River Trip. 3 days/2 nights, starting in North Conway NH and ending at the Brownfield Bridge in Brownfield, ME. About 26 miles. Much of that we didn’t even paddle. Gear all worked great. It was so peaceful, gorgeous scenery.
  • Need a laugh? Check out this video by Jim Gaffigan- Seafood
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_119-_Saco_River_Knitting.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:42pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 118 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
 
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors Colorful EclecticDragonfly FibersKnitCircus Yarns
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Amma Granny Square Top by Maria Valles
  • Hook: C 2.75 mm
  • Yarn: Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread Classic 10 in a creamy vanilla color
  • Finished last year and brought it to Key West. The bottom trim got stuck on something in my suitcase and unraveled so I ripped back and finished it again.
  • Pattern in Spirit Animals Book by  by Jessica Boyer put out by Leisure Arts. $10 ebook copy from their website.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava and Cascade 220 Superwash
  • Hook: C
  • This is made in many pieces. Finishing instructions aren't great but the FO is cute!
 
 
New Stash Dash Total: 4,429.9 meters

On the Needles

 
  • 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)
 
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Eclipse Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • First sock is done.
 
  • Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Sock in the Joyful colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Dancing Dog Dyeworks Twist Sock in the Holly Jolly colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Pattern: Jujuy by Joji Locatelli
  • Needles:US 5 (3.75)
  • Yarn: O Wool O-Wash Fingering
 

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
 
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

 

 
 
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode
  • Use coupon code AUGUST at periwinklesheep.com From Aug 1-15 to get 15% off your order.
  • Finish your projects by 7/31- but don't forget you have until 8/5 to post the details in the Summer Celebration Thread.

The Pigskin Party will start up at the end of August! Interested in sponsoring, get the details and first chance at Pro Shop spots by signing up for my email newsletter and clicking the box to say you're interested in Sponsorship Opportunities.

Events

  • Fiber Revival: Saturday August 12 from 9a-4p at the Spencer Peirce Little Farm Newbury, MA
  • Adirondack Wool and Arts Festival: September 23 & 24, 2017
  • VT Sheep and Wool: September 30 & October 1, 2017
  • Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, 25 Garden St Rhinebeck NY 12572- Legacy Fiber Artz, Andre Sue Knits, Sucre Sucre Minatures (Chelsea), Knit Cahoots (Cori and Megan), Fat Squirrel Speaks (AmyBeth)
  • Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus, 503 Washington Ave., Kingston, N.Y.
  • NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY

Contest, News & Notes

Thank you to Knitters Pride for allowing me to giveaway a set of their Knitter's Pride- Knit Blockers to one lucky winner. Tune in to see if you won!
 
Forgot to tell you my other favorite Knitters Pride Product: Nova Platina (I prefer fixed circulars)
 

Life in Focus

Happiness Project 2017- July= Focus on Family
  • Played a board game called Spontuneous with my cousins, aunt and uncle. I'm not usually huge into board games but this was fun and I'm glad I chose to say yes!
  • We went to a movie night at local shopping center. I love the new Beauty and the Beast. Kids had a blast (Garret spent half the night talking about hand knit socks and coming up with his 2-part sock idea)
  • I made it a point to go up to Camp to see my cousin for my great uncle's memorial service. So great to spend quality time with my cousin who lives in Florida.

On a Happy Note

  • Kayaking
    • Christi78 reached out to say: " Really enjoyed this episode. Just thought I'd toss out that LL Bean offers great trips, including my favorite - a full moon paddle around Casco Bay. When we went we saw seals and it was a magical date night."
    • Dan and I did about 8 miles of kayaking in NH last week. I love it so much!
  •  I've been experimenting with getting at least 70g of protein per day to see if it will help me build muscle and potentially lose a pound or two. Some resources I mentioned
 -----------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_118__Sock_Obsessed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:28pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 117 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksPeriwinkle Sheep, and One Geek to Craft Them All
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Construction Zone by Heidi Kirrmaier
  • Yarn: Tempting Ewe Yarns Luxe Aran (90% Merino/10% Silk) in the Grey Goose Colorway. 2 skeins 340 yards each
  • Needles: US 9 | 5.5 mm
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beyond the Wall Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Blueberry Chick Yarn in the Put the Lime in the Coconut Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: Teal Swirl Dishcloth
  • Hook: Various H + J (I think)
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar and Cream
 
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici colorway: 27304 Lemonade (greens, yellows, blues: self striping)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) & US 2. (2.75 mm)
  • Cast on 56 stitches with US 1.5 ribbing for a couple inches. Switch to US 2 and knit stockinette for 1 stripe. Increase by 4 stitches to get to 60 sts. Knit the leg and reverse the shaping on the other side.

New Stash Dash total: 3571.9 meters

 

On the Needles

 
  • 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)
  • Front and back are done and blocked.
 
 
  • Pattern in Spirit Animals Book by  by Jessica Boyer put out by Leisure Arts. $10 ebook copy from their website. Paperback $12.99
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava and Cascade 220 Superwash
  • Hook: C
 

From the Armchair

Tune in to hear my review of the Knitter's Pride- Knit Blockers
 

Knitting in Passing

  • I  met a lovely lady named Beryl at the hair salon last Saturday. She said she was just learning socks. I encouraged her to stick with it. I love the opportunity to chat with kind people, as Michelle of The Actually Knitting Podcast says, #becauseofknitting
 

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Splash Pad Party
 
 
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode-
 
  • Use coupon code AUGUST at periwinklesheep.com From Aug 1-15 to get 15% off your order.
  • Congrats to Team Pushing the Purls- winner of the Shuffleboard Tournament
  • Tune in for some July chat/Instagram winners
 

Events

 

Life in Focus

July: Focus on Family
  • We spent the first 5 days of the month in NH with my parents, my best friend, Dan's brother and my niece and nephew. Quality family time that you can hear more about from Aila (8) and Will (10) at the end of the episode.
  • I spent quality time with my great Aunt Florence after knee replacement. When she's done w/ rehab for her knee, going to make a date to have her help me with a sewing project.
 
 

On a Happy Note

  • Dan and I are planning a kayak camping trip in August.
  • My friend Devon was back in the US for a visit. She lives in Vienna now with her husband and they are expecting first baby in November. While she was home, she, Kris and I made this corn chowder recipe from Food + Wine. It was a little bland so we added a little cayan pepper and about a cup and half of Fiesta blend shredded cheese from Whole Foods (just what I had in my fridge). Then on Sunday we went to her Shower.
  • Enjoying getting back to walking on a more consistent basis.
  • Trying out new "recipes" (I don't follow recipes strictly)
    • Spaghetti Squash, Roasted Red Pepper, Zucchini, Eggplant, Tomatoes Basil, Ricotta (lazy man's veggie lasagne)
    • Overnight Oats: 1/2 c rolled oats, 3/4 c unsweetened almond/coconut blend milk, 1scoop of vanilla protein, cinnamon and blueberries- put in fridge overnight. 6 Weight Watchers Smart Points

Quote of the Week

“Do not hunt for subjects, let them choose you, not you them.  Only do that which insists on being done and runs right up against you, hitting you in the eye until you do it.”
 
-- Samuel Butler
 
 
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_117-_Under_Construction.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:33pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 116 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Possible Segments
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Infinite Twist, Plum Deluxe, Blueberry Chick Yarn
 
 

Off the Needles

  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mmm)
  •  Yarn:  Ellen Cooper's Yarn Sonnet's. Jenny base- 50/50 bamboo/cotton. Colorway is called Driftwood which is perfect for it- tans, grays, blips of peachy/pink. Variegated but almost tonal.
  • Pattern: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty
  • Size: 37 1/4 inch bust- calls for 920 yards
  • I had 20 yards less than what was called for, so had to do cap sleeves and 2 inches shorter on the body. I love it!
 
  • Patons Kroy Stripes in Mexicali Stripes and Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: 4seasons Halloween by Lalylala Lydia Tresselt (5.50 Euros) for 3 pattern collection (also includes Diego, sugar skull, and Brian the brain)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 superwash/KnitPicks Brava
  • Hook: C
 
Stash Dash 2017 Total to Date:
  • Total: 1945.2 meters to date
  • Goal 10k

On the Needles

  • Pattern: Construction Zone by Heidi Kirrmaier
  • Yarn: Tempting Ewe Yarns Luxe Aran (90% Merino/10% Silk) in the Grey Goose Colorway. 2 skeins 340 yards total
  • Needles: US 9 | 5.5 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)
 
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beyond the Wall Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan William
 
  • Yarn: Blueberry Chick Yarn in the Put the Lime in the Coconut Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 

Brainstorming

  • Lydia Tresselt also has a 4 Seasons Easter Pattern- I'd like to make the lamb.
  • Poppy Troll Hats- free crochet pattern. Super cute.
  • I want to knit all the things during the 4th of July holiday.
  • I'd like to use some stash yarn to knit the Jujuy by Joji Locatelli

From the Armchair

  • Talking as Fast As I Can by Lauren Graham (audiobook read by author))
  • Orange Is The New Black: Season 5 available on Netflix

KAL News

  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
 
What is the Splash Pad Party?
  1. Craft along that runs from: June 1- July 31, 2017
  2. To win prizes, craft something that’s 50-200 grams. For every 50 grams you use, you'll earn 1 entry into the Summer Celebration Thread.  You’ll earn additional entries for using Pro Shop Products (2), Pro Shop Exclusive Products (1), Snack Shack Product (1).
  3. Prizes will be given out by using Random Number Generator to select posts in the Summer Celebration Thread.
  4. Prizes will also randomly be given to those who chat in the any of the Splash Pad related chat threads and to those who use #splashpadparty17 on Instagram
 
Be sure to check out our Pro Shop Sponsors
 
 

On a Happy Note

  • Our surprise dance at my dancing school's 35th Anniversary Recital went well.
  • Riley and Millie slept over afterwards and of course we had a blast. They always love Dan's pancakes. Audio of them at the end of the episode.
  • Dan and I took our kayaks for a second outing.
  • We had an awesome pool day to celebrate Oisin's 9th Birthday
  • I've been able to work out more and my heel is nearly healed!
  • My friend Dan etched a glass with my podcast logo! SO COOL!

Quote of the Week

“My definition of a free society is a society where it is safe to be unpopular.”
-Adlai Stevenson
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_116__Put_the_Lime_in_the_Coconut.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:42pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 115 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to Sponsors:
 

Off the Needles

  • OMG Heel Sock Pattern
  • US 1.5 Needles
  • Yarn: Knitterly Things Vesper Sock Spring Sonata Colorway
  • Self Striping, Hot pink, lighter pink, turquoise, orange and purple.
  • Hard on my hands but LOVE the colors!
  • FO=289.6 meters
 
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints Color 26 Holidays
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • FO= 287.7 meters
 
Stash Dash Total: 577.3 meters- Goal is 10k

On the Needles

  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Gris colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Patons Kroy Stripes in Mexicali Stripes and Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici colorway: 27304 Lemonade (greens, yellows, blues: self striping)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) & US 2. (2.75 mm)
  • Cast on 56 stitches with US 1.5 ribbing for a couple inches. Switch to US 2 and knit stockinette for 1 stripe. Increase by 4 stitches to get to 60 sts. knit leg. Will match on the other side.
 
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mmm)
  •  Yarn:  Ellen Cooper's Yarn Sonnet's. Jenny base- 50/50 bamboo/cotton. Colorway is called Driftwood which is perfect for it- tans, grays, blips of peachy/pink. Variegated but almost tonal.
  • Pattern: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty
  • Nearly done. Will need to modify to make short sleeves because I'm short on yarn.
 

From the Armchair

In My Travels

Portland, Maine

KAL News

 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
What is the Splash Pad Party?
  1. Craft along that runs from: June 1- July 31, 2017
  2. To win prizes, craft something that’s 50-200 grams. For every 50 grams you use, you'll earn 1 entry into the Summer Celebration Thread.  You’ll earn additional entries for using Pro Shop Products (2), Pro Shop Exclusive Products (1), Snack Shack Product (1).
  3. Prizes will be given out by using Random Number Generator to select posts in the Summer Celebration Thread.
  4. Prizes will also randomly be given to those who chat in the any of the Splash Pad related chat threads and to those who use #splashpadparty17 on Instagram
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
 
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
 
  • Check out the Prize Thread for details about coupons available from some of our sponsors
  • Three participation prizes were announced on this episode. Get in touch if you're a winner!

 Contests News and Notes

Life in Focus

 
June Happiness Project Focus: Nurture Friendships
  • Do you have ideas? Clever things friends have done for you to show they care? Sending gifts or flowers works, but would like it to be something more thoughtful and heartfelt.

On a Happy Note

  • I'm having fun dancing with friends (even though I sprained something in my ribs)
  • We got a great deal at LL Bean on Kayaks and had our first adventure.
  • Went to a lecture by Jessamyn Stanley at Boston Public Library
  • I had an amazing birthday weekend with friends and family. Including our first pool day of the summer!

Quote of the Week

I think it's nice to age gracefully. OK, you lose the youth, a certain stamina and dewy glow, but what you gain on the inside as a human being is wonderful: the wisdom, the acceptance and the peace of mind. It's a fair exchange. -Cherie Lunghi
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_115__Summer_of_Kayaks.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:16pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 114 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: Knitters Brewing Company, Skeindalous Yarns and Pearl and Plum

Off the Needles

  • 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)
  • White cuff- 23 rounds. Increased one stitch on each edge a few rounds before finishing. Started round on left side of front. 

 On the Needles

  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mmm)
  •  Yarn:  Ellen Cooper. Jenny base- 50/50 bamboo/cotton. Colorway is called Driftwood which is perfect for it- tans, grays, blips of peachy/pink. Variegated but almost tonal. Just enough variation for me.
  • Pattern: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty
Lots of Socks:

Gradient Angles Shawl

  • Pattern: Gradient Angles by Jan Hamby
  • Yarn: Infinite Twist

Worsted Weight Riley Rose ShawlRiley's Legwarmers

Journey Sweater

I have some leftover crochet hearts from the garland I made for Aila.

Mom recently unearthed a few hand knitted and crocheted things from our past:

  • My baby blanket hand knit by Mom's friend's mother.
  • Granny Square Shrug. Here's a photo of Riley wearing it
  • Sweaters made for my brother + me.
  • Mom sewed a set for my nursery- a diaper holder, dust ruffle and curtains
  • Mom talked about how she and her friend made pillows from face cloths held together with yarn pulled through with a crochet hook.

Brainstorming

Toy for Oisin in June- maybe one of these:
Will wants a Peregrine Falcon: found one in Spirit Animals Bookby Jessica Boyer available through Leisure Arts $9.99 download.
 

From the Armchair

 
Scanner
  • Set up. Save as jpg. Pdf.
  • Save to folder. To Mac photos program.
  • Create profiles for types of things.
  • Once set up, very easy.
  • Can scan up to 8.5 inches wide. Multiple items of different sizes at once
  • Only thing it had trouble feeding was polaroids. Didn't play with paper settings because we didn't have enough to warrant and there were two of us.
  • Got through nearly 10 years of photos in about 7 hours. Still have tons more to do.
  • Process. Scan. Save to photos program. Tag with Year and other tags. Christmas. School etc move to Year folder in photos. In harddrive folder - move into Year folder.

KAL News

 
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
Pro Shop Sponsors
 
Snack Shack Sponsors
 

Events

 
Virtual Events I'm looking forward to:
 

Contests News and Notes

Come over to the group to this thread to enter to win a copy of the Merrain MKAL pattern from Mary of Kino Knits. Tune in to hear about a coupon code available for this patternuntil 6/15/17.
 

Life in Focus

May Happiness Project: Try new tastes

On a Happy Note

  • Scanning with Mom
  • Seeing Aila perform in The Little Mermaid
  • Cleaning, yard work, picking out new railings
  • Converting the hutch in our dining room for project storage (scrapbooking and model making)
  • Mom's Happy Place: Her 3 Season Room at Lassonde Pool Pub is OPEN! Mom got new rugs and a cute new pillow (from Walmart)

Quote of the Week

"Forget about the fast lane. If you really want to fly, harness your power to your passion. Honor your calling. Everybody has one. Trust your heart, and success will come to you.”
-Oprah Winfrey
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_114__Chatting_with_Mom.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:44pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 113 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • On the Needles
  •  Brainstorming
  •  From the Armchair
  • 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: Knitty Kitty BagsAtelier de Soyun, Sunsoaked Yarns
 

 On the Needles 

  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mmm)
  •  Yarn:  Ellen Cooper. Jenny base- 50/50 bamboo/cotton. Colorway is called Driftwood which is perfect for it- tans, grays, blips of peachy/pink. Variegated but almost tonal. Just enough variation for me.
  • Pattern: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty
  • Hook: F
  • Yarn: Swift Yarns- Swift Bliss Sock- MCN- 2 ply in Dream Weaver Colorway- light green
  • Pattern: Amma Granny Square Top by Maria Valles
  • Modification- using a solid granny square pattern found here

Granny Square Scrap Blanket #2

  • Pattern: Waveless Colorful Granny by CherylDeeCrochet (free)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover angering weight scraps
  • 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)
  • Patons Kroy Stripes in Mexicali Stripes and Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
I ripped out my Caesious Curl by Hunter Hammersen. Loved the stitch pattern but the shawl was too small w/ just 1 skein of fingering.
 

Brainstorming 

I'm excited to make all the spring/summer tops. I bought yarn for the Construction Zone at Maryland Sheep and Wool.
 
I'm also excited to look through all my WIPs to strategize for Stash Dash!
 

From the Armchair  

 In My Travels 

  • I talked about my trip to visit friends and attend the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival
  • Friday night we went to the Knot House in Frederick.
    • Met Carol from Swift Yarns: love her color sense, she does lighter colors and speckles impeccably
    • Caught up with Karin from The Periwinkle Sheep (love her grays! I need to buy a sweater quantity from her soon)
    • Finally got to meet Kristen of Media Peruana Designs
  • Saturday highlights: shopping, podcaster meet up!!

KAL News

 
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
 
 
 

Contests News and Notes 

Come over to the group to this thread to enter to win a copy of the Merrain MKAL pattern from Mary of Kino Knits. Tune in to hear about a coupon code available for this pattern until 6/15/17.
 
 

Life in Focus

May Happiness Project: Try new tastes
  •  Spaghetti Squash: pierced it 10-15 times. Baked at 350 for about an hour. Easy!
  •  Siggi peach yogurt
  •  Protein shakes
  • Blue Diamond almonds with Wasabi and Soy Sauce
  • Trying to get in more protein after learning recently that you should eat 8 grams of protein for every 20 pounds you weigh

On a Happy Note 

  •  I went to the Museum of Fine Arts with my best friend to see a painting by Frida Kahlo
  • Going to my nieces' dance recital! They did GREAT!
  • Managing a successful software upgrade at work.
  • Finally getting a day off and treating myself to a massage + keratin treatment
  • Applying strategies I know work well for me when life is crazy. Eating well. Sleeping well. Knitting for stress. Exercise. Seeing friends. Making time for date night.
  • Dan hung up the swings my parents bought us for Christmas! They're from Cobble Mountain Hammock Company

Quote of the Week

“I can’t just sit here and think, ‘I just wish my body was different. Everything could be different, would be different.’ When you accept that, you can accept the strength your body parts are actually giving you.”  JESSAMYN STANLEY
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_113__Make_a_Splash.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 112 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contests, News and Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off The Needles

  • Pattern: Brooklyn the Ballerina by Yarn Society on Etsy (not list on Ravelry) $4.99
  • Hook: C
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (white), Knit Picks Brava (blue), Malibrigo (red)

 

On the Needles

 
  • Patons Kroy Stripes in Mexicali Stripes and Singin the blues stripes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints Color 26 Holidays
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • 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: Waveless Colorful Granny by CherylDeeCrochet (free)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover angering weight scraps
  • Using 3 rounds of one color of fingering.
 
 

Brainstorming

  • Swatching for Donner by Elizabeth Doherty.
  • Yarn= Ellyn Cooper’s Yarn Sonnets- Jenny base which is a 50/50 bamboo cotton fingering in the driftwood colorway
  • Getting Gradient Angles back on track.
    • I encourage you to check out the amazing kits at Infinite Twist. be sure to put Down Cellar Studio in the referral box at check out to get some free goodies. For a free copy of the Quintia Shawl pattern through May 31st with code: highfive
  • It's the the of year to wash the winter knits before storing them for the winter. That will help to keep any critters away.

Crafty Adventures

Some products I mentioned.

 

KAL News

  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • April Prize: Fibernymph Dye Works- A set of mini skeins from my Antigua colorway collection…this includes six mini skeins, three on Bounce (80 yards each) and three on Bedazzled (87 yards each)
Splash Pad Party KAL

Snack Shack Sponsors (as of 4/28)

 
Pro Shop Sponsors (as of 4/28)
 
Designs of Arcadia will be selling Splash Pad Party Logo Totes- get Pro Shop points for using that as your project bag. Also makes a great beach/pool tote! I love mine.
 

Events

Tune in to hear my best trips for Maryland Sheep & Wool Planning. Also check out:

 
Stash Dash KAL - hosted by the Knit Girllls PodcastStarts May 26th.
 

Contest News and Notes

Please check out my latest shawl design Emelyn Mae Shawl  regular price $6.00. On sale for 50% off until May 15th.
 

 

Life in Focus

Happiness Project 2017- April Explore my Surroundings
 
  • Exploring Charles Street after work. $10 sock blockers at store that's moving.
  • Dan and I went to a local restaurant for their $2 tapas Thursday night events three weeks in a row. Adding date night into routine definitely making me happier.

On A Happy Note

  • Easter with the family
  • Retirement Planning
  • Kris' birthday dinner
  • Bowling for A’s 8th birthday.
  • CT Sheep and Wool Festival with Emelyn (our 4th fiber festival together). Tune in for audio at end of the episode.

Quote of the Week

“To be really happy and really safe, one ought to have at least two or three hobbies, and they must all be real.”
– Winston Churchill, “Hobbies”
 
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For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_112__Emelyn_Mae.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:10pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 111 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off The Needles

 
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Twist Sock- Self Striping in the After the Storm Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
 
  • Pattern: Shy Little Unicorn by  Ana Paula Rimoli (library book)
  • Yarn: KnitPicks Brava Worsted
  • Hook: C
  • Her name: Poopsiedoo

On the Needles 

  • OMG Heel Sock Pattern
  • US 1.5 Needles
  • Yarn: Knitterly Things Vesper Sock Spring Sonata Colorway
 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beyond the Wall Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints Color 26 Holidays
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Gris colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Tune in to hear my review of trying on 9 inch circular needles.
 
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici colorway: 27304 Lemonade (greens, yellows, blues: self striping)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) & US 2. (2.75 mm)
 
  • Pattern: Weaveless Colorful Granny by CherylDeeCrochet (free)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight scraps
 
  • Pattern: Riley Rose by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Hikoo by Skacel Simpliworsted in Aqua Mint, Deep Turquoise, Gypsy Red and White
  • Needles: US 10 1/2 (6.5 mm)

Brainstorming

  • Crochet Christmas stockings
  • More socks (stocked up on Patons Kroy on sale from Craftsy.com)

Crafty Adventures

I share some thought on getting back into scrapbooking after a long hiatus.

Knitting in Passing

My friend Megg and I generated a lot of conversation knitting at the Camp Pulse event last weekend. I think I may have a few more converts to teach.
 

KAL News

  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
Tune in to hear if you won a First Quarter Prize
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
In April, we also have an additional prize from Fibernymph Dye Works
  • A set of mini skeins from my Antigua colorway collection…this includes six mini skeins, three on Bounce (80 yards each) and three on Bedazzled (87 yards each)
 
Splash Pad Party KAL
 

 Events

 

Coming to CT Sheep & Wool or Stitches United? Participate in our Riley Rose Shawl Contest.

  • Wear your Riley Rose, take a photo and post to get one entry
  • Take a photo of someone else wearing a Riley Rose shawl and get 2 entries
  • See someone wearing one, make a friend and take a photo together and get 3 entries.
  • All photos must be posted on Instagram with #rileyroseshawl and tag me @BostonJen1  to be eligible to win
 
Stash Dash KAL - hosted by the Knit Girllls PodcastStarts May 26th.
 
  • What is it: choose a creative project you will commit to for 100 days. Most people choose something very specific. I am just going to focus on doing something creative every day. So far, knitting, crochet, project life scrapbooking and hand lettering/drawing.
 

Life in Focus

Happiness Project 2017
 
April- Explore Your Surroundings

On A Happy Note

  • Riley was in a Panto performance of Aladdin
  • Taking Garret to Legoland for his 7th Birthday
  • Emelyn's surprise 13th Birthday Party.
  • I thoroughly enjoyed the new Beauty & the Beast movie
  • Eme performed in Guys & Dolls!
  • Camp Pulse weekend!
 
Quote of the Week
I'm not interested in blind optimism, but I'm very interested in optimism that is hard-won, that takes on darkness and then says, 'This is not enough.' Colum McCann
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_111__Feel_the_Pulse.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:29pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 110 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles
 
  • Yarn: Various Scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Video Tutorial for Cate's Clasp Weft Join for Knitting available on my YouTube channel. Cate will be releasing a PDF soon. Check back here for a link.
    • Check out Cate's other brilliant works at Infinite Twist
    • This join is meant for non-super wash yarn. It has held up well in super wash socks, maybe because they are knit tightly. You may want to swatch if using a more slippery yarn, especially at a looser gauge.
  • I also started  Frankensock #5
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Khaki Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

 

  • Yarn: KFI Luxury Collection (MCN)- Color 604, browns, light green and a teal
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm)
  • Pattern: OMG heel 52 stitches
 
  • Pattern: Stanley the Giraffe by Little Muggles ($5 through Craftsy)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
  • Hook: F 3.75mm
 
  • Pattern: my own notes
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 super wash
  • Hook: C 2.75 mm
  • Pattern: my own notes
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted- magenta
  • Hook: D 3.25 mm

On the Needles

 
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Twist Sock- Self Striping in the After the Storm Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

 

 

Brainstorming 

  • Idea from TwinSet Jan re: options for Color Collusion shawl.
  • I need to start Christmas stockings for this year.
  • Eme wants partners for her bunnies sheep and elephant. She recommended I start with baby bunnies in fun colors! Can do.

From the Armchair

Check out this cool documentary:
 
 

Knitting in Passing

  • My niece Emelyn (almost 13 years old) wants to finish the cowl she cast on last year after the RI Fiber Fest.
  • Riley wanted to knit on socks at a fundraiser we were at last week, so she, Megg and I all knit together for a few minutes.

KAL News

 
First Quarter Prizes:
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • Additional prize for March— Fibernymph Dye Works resist-dyed sock blank – either with sparkle or without – custom dyed in the winners choice of colors.

Events

Life in Focus

March Happiness Project- Automation
  • I've made some progress
    • Set up my credit card to auto pay each month.
    • Set up my phone and Dan’s phone to auto upload our photos to Dropbox.
    • I am still looking for better photo management solution to replace iPhoto. Have any tips for me?
    • I've backed up my photos to Google Photos
    • I am working on a new habit of deleting photos off my phone each night before bed.
    • I purchased an eye-fi SD card from Amazon. This will send my camera photos onto my phone so I can edit, upload, share with others, put right into Project life app on my phone. I love it! It was easy to set and it is easy to use.

Contests, News and Notes

 
 
 
The Fuller Craft Museum is calling for submissions to come with a written description of the story behind the hats, which are often made as an act of meditation. Contributors are also asked to first send a photograph of their pussy hat to the Fuller Craft Museum before submitting, to make sure there is no overlap in design with other hats already received by the museum.
 
Patterns I'm excited about
 

Life in Focus

March Happiness Project- Automation
  • Struggling a little more with this one but I have made some progress.
  • Only have 1 credit card. Set it to auto pay each month.
  • Set up my phone and Dan’s phone to auto upload our photos to Dropbox. I store all of our photos and its easier and takes less time this way than having to take Dan’s phone and plug it into my computer.
  • Still looking for better photo management solution. If others have tips. Have all Macs. iPhoto. Slow. crashes. Not ideal. I have lightroom from disc, not creative cloud. may move to one of those options but need to decide. In the meantime, at least our photos are safe and backed up.
  • Also backing up ALL my photos phone and computer to Google Photo which I mentioned in this segment last month.
  • Trying out new habit of deleting photos off my phone each night before bed. Strategy of pairing- write in journal and delete bad photos before bed
  • Bought an Eye fi card from Amazon. Puts camera photos onto my phone so i can edit, upload, share with others, put right into Project life app on my phone. Really easy to use. Connect to the wifi network when it comes up. open app on my phone and photos download into the app. Download onto my phone's photo app only if I choose, which is nice! Easy to use. Glad I have it. Still may not always use it, but I enjoy having that option.
 

On A Happy Note 

  • Spring shopping. Not totally happy about the shopping process but happy to have a few things that fit well.
  • Trying new recipes (I don’t enjoy the process, but the result make me happy)
    • New to me things: cooking lentils and trying chipotle sauce (to replicate bowl from B Good).
  • Scrapbooking, documenting important memories, ordering photos from Persnickety Prints
  • Hanging out with our friends daughters- Carina and Ella
  • Dinner and movie for my friend Megg's birthday!
  • Family fun at a local fundraiser.
  • Emelyn asking to go on a birthday date with Dan (and him saying yes, but they need to go out for a fancy dinner!)

Quote of the Week

"Two things define you. Your patience when you have nothing, and your attitude when you have everything."
-Unknown
 
Direct download: Episode_110-_Toy_Parade.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:10pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 109 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: 

 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Anna (Frozen) Inspired Softie by Kristen's Kords (kit)
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Caron One Pound + Red Heart With love

 

 

On the Needles

 

  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Khaki Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

 

 
  • Pattern: Journey by Alina Schneider
  • Yarn: Yarn Geek Fibers Whiz Bang (merino/bamboo worsted weight)
  • Needles:  US 6 (4.0 mm)
 
 

 

 
  • Pattern: Stanley the Giraffe by Little Muggles ($5 through Craftsy)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice
  • Hook: F 3.75mm 

Knitting in Passing 

 

I've recently taught knitting skills to 4 co-workers! I love sharing this hobby with new people!

KAL News

 
First Quarter Prizes:
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • Additional prize for March— Fibernymph Dye Works resist-dyed sock blank – either with sparkle or without – custom dyed in the winners choice of colors.
  • Congrats to our February winner- KnitterDeb1030

Events

Life in Focus

March Happiness Project- Automation
  • I've made some progress
    • Set up my credit card to auto pay each month.
    • Set up my phone and Dan’s phone to auto upload our photos to Dropbox.
    • I am still looking for better photo management solution to replace iPhoto. Have any tips for me?
    • I've backed up my photos to Google Photos
    • I am working on a new habit of deleting photos off my phone each night before bed.
    • I purchased an eye-fi SD card from Amazon. This will send my camera photos onto my phone so I can edit, upload, share with others, put right into Project life app on my phone. Haven’t had a chance to play with it yet.

On a Happy Note

  • Daytona 500 party- we had a great time visiting with friends + presenting the trophy Dan made to the last year's winner of their Fantasy League.
  • Visited Boston Public Market Open House
  • Knit Night at Gather Here in Cambridge+ meeting my friend's new baby
  • Wine Tasting/Fundraiser Party at a friend's house + wearing a vintage shirt I purchased years ago but hadn't yet worn.
  • I got new glasses!!
  • I took my niece Millie to Legoland for her 5th birthday. There is some bonus audio of Millie and me at the end of the episode.
 

Quote of the Week

 
“To be mature you have to realize what you value most. It is extraordinary to discover that comparatively few people reach this level of maturity. They seem never to have paused to consider what has value for them. They spend great effort and sometimes make great sacrifices for values that, fundamentally, meet no real needs of their own. Perhaps they have imbibed the values of their particular profession or job, of their community or their neighbors, of their parents or family. Not to arrive at a clear understanding of one’s own values is a tragic waste. You have missed the whole point of what life is for.”
 
-- Eleanor Roosevelt, You Learn by Living
 
 
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_109__Festival_Season_is_Just_Ahead.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:44pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 108 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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

Off the Needles

  • Yarn: Fish Belly Fiber Works, Tributary Base in the Bougainvillea colorway (fingering weight held doubled)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) and US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Pattern: KitKat Hat by Andre Sue Knits
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50- Imprim Ciel Colorway
  • US 1 (2.25mm) needles
  • Pattern: OMG Heel
 
Mary, Millie & Morgan (skirt + cardigan)

On the Needles

 
  • Pattern: Gradient Angles by Janice Hamby
  • Yarn: Infinite Twist Helix: Colors= Spooky Purple, African Violet, Mona Lisa, Tickled, Sakura, Anthurium
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
 

From the Armchair 

 
A thought about 2016 FOs: One pair of my shortie socks with softer yarn didn't stay up. In the future I am going to stick with Regia or harder wearing wools in future and knit at a denser gauge.
 
Making My Life Easier- I back up my photos from my phone and my computer to Google Photos. It acts as a back-up but also makes it easier for me to add photos to my Ravelry Project Pages. because there is an option upload from Google Photos.
 
Book Review: Heart on My Sleeve. Knit with Care conceived and coordinated by Emily Wessel and Alexa Ludeman of Tin Can Knits.
  • Designs by Shannon Cook, Romi Hill, Bristol Ivy, Tanis Lavallée, Joji Locatelli, Alexa Ludeman, Jane Richmond, Ysolda Teague, and Emily Wessel
  • Visit their website for more details.
  • For details about their KAL check out this Ravelry thread.

Knitting in Passing

 
  • I shared a story about connecting with another Weight Watchers Member on knitting. I helped her with her first sock.
  • If you're a new sock knitter you may want to check out the Tin Can Knits Rye Sock Pattern. Great resource for a knit sock knitter because it explains the construction.

KAL News

 
  • Click here to find about more about this KAL.
  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!
  • First Quarter Prizes:
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • In March we also have a prize from Fibernymph Dye Works. The winner can choose a resist-dyed sock blank – either with sparkle or without – in their choice of colors.
 
Pigskin Party
Our 3rd annual make-along hosted in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group that runs during the NFL football season September 8- February 6th (Monday after Superbowl- you can knit and post photos on that last day) The more projects you finish, the more touchdowns and field goals you’ll score and the more points you earn. You can also increase your score by using products from our awesome sponsors or meeting other challenges and by recruiting new team members. The more points you have, the more entries you get for the prize drawings. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation  on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light if you’re not a hardcore player.  You can participate in as much or as little as you like. In short- it’s 5 months of fun, chatter, some good healthy banter and of course PRIZES!
 
Pigskin Party ’16
 
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:
  • January & February Huddle & Instagram Winners
  • 10 Grand Prize Winners
  • Sponsor Love Thread Winners
  • 10 Grand Prize Winners

Events

Life in Focus

February: Memory keeping
 
The Plan:
  • Determine a sustainable plan for documenting memories through scrapbooking (paper and/or digital) in a creative, sharable way that doesn’t overwhelm me.
  • Find, print and hang more photos in our home.
 
Why?
  • I scrapbooked 2005-2009 of my life and then again for part of 2013. I am so grateful to have documented the stories of that time in my life, especially as my nieces and nephews were born. I want to fill in the gaps and document those stories before I lose them. Kids were still so little then. So many cute photos, memories, milestones. funny things they said.
  • I have boxes of photos & memorabilia my mother thoughtful saved for me. I want to organize it and purge what I don’t want and find a system for making this into something worth saving and sharing.
  • I want to remember and celebrate my life. I want to share stories with my family and pass along wisdom where I can.
 
What I've done so far:
 
  • Identified an approach- Stacy JulianLibrary of Memories approach combined with Project Life divided page protectors
  • Sorted through childhood memorabilia based on these categories
  • Assessed finished scrapbooks.
  • Sort through emails and journals. Momento app all to pull social media.
  • Reorganize 2014 photos already printed into LOM approach. Started scrapbooking them!
    • Heard tip to put photos in divided  Pocket Pages first. get that finished. Did that while binge watching with dan and my friend laura. felt productive but didn't take as much brain space as actually scrapbooking. Easier to batch and liked that I could do it from the couch.
  • Working on Project Life App for 2017 and 2016 photos. Appreciate that the app allows me to scrapbook on my phone anywhere.
 
Resources
 
Apps:
 
Podcasts:
 
Websites + Blogs
 
 
March- my focus will be about automation. If you have any tips for me, please come share in the Ravelry group.
 

On a Happy Note

  • World of Difference Shawl- has been a huge hit! Thank you for the overwhelmingly positive response.
  • Visiting with friends. Binge watching, Season 3 of the Affair. The Crown. Black Mirror.
  • I had a good appointment with my Physical Therapist.
  • Weight Watchers is going well. I met a new personal goal!
  • I spent time this weekend my niece and nephew.

Quote of the Week

 
Having the best things is no substitute for having the best life. When you can let go of the desire to acquire, you know you are really on your way.
Oprah Winfrey.
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_108-_And_The_Winners_Are.....mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:03pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 107  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

Off the Needles 

  • Pattern: Sunwalker by Melanie Berg
  • Yarn: Sun Valley Fibers MCS (Merino Cashmere Silk) Fingering in Kensington Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
  • Modifications:
    • Made it smaller than originally called for. Notes from this Ravelry Project Page as my guide.
    • Did garter stitch for body instead of textured stitch. 
 
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash in brown & red
  • Hook: C (2.75mm)
  • Pattern: none
  • Eyes & Nose from: 6060 on Etsy
 
  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarah Anderson
  • Yarn: Pussyhat leftover yarn- Tink Yarn, Cascade 220, other stash scraps
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Idea from Andie of AndreSue Knits Video Podcast
  • Works for Marce of Brown Berry Chronicles Video Podcast KAL  #MakeWIPsNotWaste
 
  • Yarn: Berry Colorful Yarnings- self striping
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Sock by Megan Williams
 

 

Bruins Hat

  • Yarn: Knitters Brewing Company Sockaholic Fingering weigh yarn in Bruins Tailgate Party Colorway
  • Pattern: None- see project page for details.
  • Needles: US 5 & 6

On the Needles 

  • Yarn: KFI Luxury Collection (MCN)- Color 604
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm)
  • Pattern: OMG heel 52 stitches
 
  • Pattern: Journey by Alina Schneider $7
  • Yarn: Yarn Geek Fibers Whiz Bang (merino/bamboo worsted weight)
  • Needles:  US 6 (4.0 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50- Imprim Ciel Colorway
  • US 1 (2.0mm) needles
  • Pattern: OMG Heel
 

Brainstorming 

From the Armchair 

Podcasts:
  • Teaknits Podcast video podcast hosted by Lauren (available on YouTube)
  • Keep Calm and Carry Yarn Podcast hosted by Vivian and Alyson audio podcast available on iTunes & YouTube.
  • Cohesive Home Podcast - audio podcast hosted by Kate & Melissa. Focusing on minimalism, slow, values based living, creativity, goal setting.
  • Nourishing Real Talk - audio podcast hosted by Lindsey and Jenna. “Space for fearlessly authentic women and multi-passionate entrepreneurs who are all about living their lives and doing business on their own terms."

Movies:

Books:
 
First Quarter Prizes:
 
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode-
  • Check out the Sponsor Love Thread in our Ravelry Group. Tell us about your favorite Pigskin Party sponsors and be entered to win prizes.
  • Announced the Knit Knight Designs Interception Winners
  • Announced winners of the Bail Money for Greg Interception

Events 

GoodReader Class - March 25 from 4-6p Stitch House in Dorchester, MA ($30)
 
 

Contests, News and Notes 

World of Difference Shawl- my  new shawl is available on Ravelry! Purchase it within the first 2 weeks and get it for 50% off! No coupon code required.
 
 

Life in Focus

 
 
February: Memory keeping
 
The Plan:
  • Determine a sustainable plan for documenting memories through scrapbooking (paper and/or digital) in a creative, sharable way that doesn’t overwhelm me.
  • Find, print and hang more photos in our home.
 
Why?
  • I scrapbooked 2005-2009 of my life and then again for part of 2013. I am so grateful to have documented the stories of that time in my life, especially as my nieces and nephews were born. I want to fill in the gaps and document those stories before I lose them. Kids were still so little then. So many cute photos, memories, milestones. funny things they said.
  • I have boxes of photos & memorabilia my mother thoughtful saved for me. I want to organize it and purge what I don’t want and find a system for making this into something worth saving and sharing.
  • I want to remember and celebrate my life. I want to share stories with my family and pass along wisdom where I can.
 
What I've done so far
 
 
Resources
 
Apps:
 
Podcasts:
 
Websites + Blogs
 

On A Happy Note

  • 3 point protein shake — Almond Breeze Almond/Coconut Blend Milk (unsweetened), 1 scoop Whole Foods Vanilla Protein Powder, 2 tbsp PB2
  • Idea of being kind to your future self. I heard about this on the Happier podcast- Episode 101
  • I've been setting a weekly agenda in Evernote and it's helping me achieve more each week.
  • Women's March Boston! 
  • I celebrated a belated Christmas with my niece Emelyn and nephew Oisin. They made me  yarn ball tree and decorated frames for their school photos!
  • Ice skating with friends!
  • Going through my toys-ponies, barbies etc! Millie playing with my Barbies!
  • Garret playing with his new dirt bike!
  • We went to a friend's for dinner! Their daughter singing and dancing kept us entertained for hours!
  • Google photos app
  • Mom and Jeffs birthday dinner and family Karaoke!
 

Quote of the Week

Jane Goodall said: “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
 
------
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_107__World_of_Difference.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:24pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 106 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 

Off the Needles

 
Pussycat Project Hats: 6 complete so far

On the Needles 

 
 
  • Pattern: Gradient Angles by Janice Hamby
  • Yarn: Infinite Twist Helix: Colors= Spooky Purple, African Violet, Mona Lisa, Tickled, Sakura, Anthurium
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
 
  • Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50- Imprim Ciel Colorway
  • US 1 (2.0mm) needles
  • Pattern: OMG Heel
 
  • Pattern: Sunwalker by Melanie Berg
  • Yarn: Sun Valley Fibers MCS (Merino Cashmere Silk) Fingering in Kensington Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) 
 
 
 
  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarah Anderson
  • Yarn: Pussyhat leftover yarn- Tink Yarn, Cascade 220, other stash scraps
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Idea from Andie of AndreSue Knits Video Podcast
  • Works for Marce of Brown Berry Chronicles Video Podcast KAL  #MakeWIPsNotWaste
 

From the Armchair

 
  • The Other F Word podcast: conversations about failure
  • Minimalism; A Documentary About the Important Things  available on Netflix in the US.
  • The Bletchley Circle on Netflix
  • What I Know For Sure: (audio book of short stories/essays written and ready by Oprah Winfrey
    • A favorite quote from the book"...when people say they're looking for happiness I ask 'what are you giving to the world?' It's like the wife who once appeared on my show wondering why her relationship with her husband had broken down. She kept saying "he used to make me so happy. He doesn't make me happy anymore' what she couldn't see was that she was the cause of her own effect. Happiness is never something you get from other people. The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love or happiness you're able to give. If you think something is missing in your life or you're not getting what you deserve- remember there is no yellow brick road. You lead life. It doesn't lead you." Oprah

 In My Travels

Vogue Knitting Live NYC

  • Class with Bristol Ivy (highly recommend)
  • Visiting with friends!
 
  • Declare a WIP from 2016 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
  • Start planning your February project. Must post in thread by February 5
 
Pigskin Party
 
Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!
 
Key Details Mentioned in this Episode-
 
  • Mini Skein Interception- sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works- ended January 15th. Prizes Announced!
  • Small & Self Indulgent Interception- Sponsored by Knit Knight Designs
    • Cast-on on/after January 1. Finish by January 31.
    • Create project 300 yards to less- that you plan to keep for yourself. Could be something to wear or something for your home. Anything that will be a bright spot in your life. Just tell us why it brings you joy to make/have etc.
 
 

Life in Focus

  •  January Happiness Project Update (in progress): Minimalism
  • Interesting Things to Read:
    • Things I don't need
    • Join the Clutter Free Revolution
      • "I think a handful of brilliant and recklessly deceitful entrepreneurs have convinced us that our individual value as human beings is more closely tied to the things we own. Here’s the really weird bit: We know. But we pretend that’s not what’s going on. Instead, we proudly show off our new stuff, and say things like, “You’ve got to get one of these!” Sure, it’s fun and that excitement is real. But in most cases, we haven’t really done our homework. We skip that step and go straight to believing if something’s for sale, it must be good. We’ve not learned about where our stuff comes from, what kind of harmful materials went into making those things, whether or not the people who made that stuff were treated fairly, and if there’s an environmentally responsible way to safely dispose of all that stuff when we’re done with it.  So, here we are; this peculiar species, frantically racing about – consumed with doing anything we can to make enough money to buy these curious things we’re convinced will make us happy. The truly astonishing thing is how fleeting our happiness has become. It’s almost like finding the thing has become the source of our joy – even more so than the thing itself. Before we know it, we’ve become preoccupied with finding the next thing, and the next thing."   Evan Zislis
 
Quote of the Week

“Failure is so important. We speak about success all the time. It is the ability to resist failure or use failure that often leads to greater success. I’ve met people who don’t want to try for fear of failing…It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case you fail by default.”   ~ J. K. Rowling

------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_106__So_Much_Pink.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 105  of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

Riley's Mittens

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White and Black
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Pattern: Little Waiting for Winter Mittens by Susan B Anderson

Penguin Amigurumi

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White and Black
  • Hook: C (2.75mm)
  • Pattern: Penguin Amigurumi by  Mariska Vos-Bolman

Dan’s Extra Crazy Socks

  • Yarn: KFI Luxury Collection (MCN)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm)
  • Pattern: OMG heel

Christmas Tree Ornament

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Pattern: improvised.

PussyHat Project Hat #1

  • Yarn: MadelineTosh Tosh DK in Pop Rocks Colorway
  • Needles: US 6 & US 7 (4.0 & 4.5 mm)
  • Pattern: KitKat Hat by AndreSue (free)
  • Cast on 88. Ribbing, 3 needles bind off on the inside when done

Bruins Sockhead Hat

  • Pattern: Socked Slouch Hat by Kelly McClure (free)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75mm)
  • Yarn: Knitters Brewing Company Sockaholic Fingering weigh yarn in Bruins Tailgate Party Colorway

Unicorn

  • Pattern: Shy Little Unicorn by  Ana Paula Rimoli (library book)
  • Yarn: KnitPicks Brava Worsted
  • Hook: C

Crochet Hexagon Washcloth

Crafty Adventures

  • Project Life App
  • In the Everyday Joy Themed Cards there is a card that says "knitting is my happy place"

From the Armchair

 

Designs: Created 5 new shawl designs, 2 of which have already been published: Riley Rose & My Own Backyard

Events: We've had so much fun with the Splash Pad KAL, the 3rd Annual Pigskin Party & 12 Months to Christmas KAL

Fiber Events

  • Vogue Knitting Live- January
  • Stitches West- February
  • Rhode Island Fiber Fest, NH Sheep and Wool, MA Sheep and Wool- May
  • Fiber Revival- August
  • Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival- September
  • Rhinebeck- October

KAL News

  • Announced last of 2016 12 Months to Christmas KAL Prizes! 

12 Months to Christmas 2017

  • Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
  • Finish 1 project during each/all of the 12 months of 2017 that you plan to gift for the 2017 holidays. Post 1 item (max) per month of the year. Prizes will be drawn randomly throughout the year from all posts in the FO thread.

New Year-long Craft along- WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

 

Pigskin Party

Our 3rd annual make-along hosted in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group that runs during the NFL football season September 8- February 6th (Monday after Superbowl- you can knit and post photos on that last day) The more projects you finish, the more touchdowns and field goals you’ll score and the more points you earn. You can also increase your score by using products from our awesome sponsors or meeting other challenges and by recruiting new team members. The more points you have, the more entries you get for the prize drawings. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation  on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light if you’re not a hardcore player.  You can participate in as much or as little as you like. In short- it’s 5 months of fun, chatter, some good healthy banter and of course PRIZES!

Pigskin Party ’16

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!

Key Details Mentioned in this Episode-

  • December Huddle Winners & Instagram Winners Announced
  • WIPs Interception Winners Announced
  • Mini Skein Interception- sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works-
    • Use one or more mini skeins to make a project from start to finish (adding to a cozy memories blanket won't start). Must be a new cast-on and cast off.
    • Runs December 1- January 15th
  • Small & Self Indulgent Interception- Sponsored by Knit Knight Designs 
    • Cast-on on/after January 1. Finish by January 31.
    • Create project 300 yards to less- that you plan to keep for yourself. Could be something to wear or something for your home. Anything that will be a bright spot in your life. Just tell us why it brings you joy to make/have etc.

Events

Life in Focus

I talked about my plans for a Happiness Project for 2017. For more information, check out Gretchen Rubin's website.

On a Happy Note 

  • Christmas & New Year's!
  • SNOW! For a video click here.
  • Going to the library!
  • 30 min of Zumba w/ my favorite instructor. 

Quote of the Week

"What I know for sure is that pleasure is energy reciprocated.  What you put out, comes back. Your base level of pleasure is determined by how you view your whole life. "  --Oprah Winfrey from What I know for sure

---------------

 

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_105__Happiness_Project.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:57pm EDT

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