Down Cellar Studio Podcast (general)
 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 274 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
FearLESS Socks (DK)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Size: XS
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.
  • Made for Mom
 
FearLESS Socks (Steel Toes)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK Steel Toes (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Size: M
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.
  • Made for my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.
 
Greyhaven Hat
  • Pattern: Greyhaven hat by Robin Ulrich ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Berocco Ultra Alpaca in the Avocado Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Made for my niece's Aila's 15th birthday after she saw and like the grey one I wear a lot.
 
Emotional Support Chicken
  • Pattern: Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino ($6.50 US Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
  • Yarn: Various DK scraps
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Modern Classic Baby Blanket
  • Pattern: Modern Classic Baby Blanket by Kristin Holloway ($8 crochet pattern available on Ravelry: free version w/ ads available on this website)
  • Hook: I (5.5)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins)
  • Size: Crib Blanket: 36 x 50”
  • The blanket is worked in 2 halves that you seam together at the center to make it symmetrical. The pattern features some crochet cables.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have!
 
LFA Mystery Shortie Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About 12 rounds of ribbing. 1 round of knitting before starting the heel
  • Progress: Finished first sock and beyond the heel on the second sock.
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
 
In My Travels
  • I traveled to Orlando with my friend Megg who was going there for a conference. We stayed at the Gaylord Palms, visited Epcot one evening and had a great time.
  • I had a couple interesting conversations with people at the pool. One lady was fascinated by my knitting and we had a rather awkward chat when I told her I was knitting a chicken.
  • My poolside waiter told me he lived in NYC for a couple years with grandmother was a prolific knitter and he always enjoyed watching her knit.
  • Celebrated Megg's birthday while we were there with a delicious dinner, room decorations and of course some handknit socks (Ravelry Project Page)
 
Events
 
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • I announced the winners of the prizes I offered up for February FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.
  • Total raised during the event: $6,627. 67
 
Stitched by Jessalu is coming out with bags with the FearLESS Living Fund logo w/ a fibery twist. Check it out
 
Life in Focus
Health Update on Mom: March scans showed growth including in her brain. Radiation likely coming soon, but they're waiting until she's done with this round of chemo (hoping for 6 cycles)
 
On a Happy Note
  • Impromptu sleepover with Riley. We started a new secret project I'll tell you about in an upcoming episode. We also started a blanket for my cousin Joe who is expecting a baby boy in the summer. Riley chose a granny square that has a heart at the center. We each made just 1 to try it out and to make sure our squares would come out the same size. More on that in a future episode.
  • Riley and I went to Garret's hockey game. He got 2 goal but they ended up tying. That weekend, they did well enough to get to the next round of the playoffs.
  • My parents went to St. Maarten with 5 of my mom's first cousins and their spouses! She, Riley and I shared pics and videos of our daily outfits via text or Snapchat which is always fun.
  • Suzanne (SewRunKnit) turned me onto a new NY Times Game that's in beta: Strands.
  • My friend Marta messaged me to show me that her eldest son, Roc, has taken up crochet and made a little stuffed animal. Had planned to make a circle but he decided to free form it and it turned into a pear! Adorable!
  • Running around with Megg at Epcot like we were kids!
  • We even got our photo taken with Mickey. They got some candids as we were hugging him, and it looks like I'm bracing for an assault! Check out the hilarious photo.
  • I finished up my 4 part sock class at Staci's Stitches.
 
Quote of the Week
 
"It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade."
-Charles Dickens, Great Expectations 
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_274_-_31524_12.30_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:38pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 273 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Jenny's Blanket
  • Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket  (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
 
Millie's 2nd Squishmallow
  • Pattern: None. I did base some of the basic shaping on this pattern on Etsy
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn in brown, tan, white & pink
  • I worked bottom up with the brown, adding in a patch of white at the belly. I created the face out of tan/white and added safety eyes and sewed it on. I added 2 brown ears and a pink and white headband like this Squishmallow: Andres the Sheltie Dog (Amazon Affiliate Link)
 
Declan's 2nd Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Greener Pastures Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe.
  • Thanks for all the tips for his care package! Definitely taking some of those into account.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
FearLESS Socks (DK)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Size: XS
  • About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)
  • Progress: 1st sock is finished. I'm knitting on the foot of the second sock.
 
FearLESS Socks (Cozy Toes)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Size: M
  • About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)
  • Progress: Finished the first sock and the cuff of the second. These socks will be gifted to my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.
 
Modern Classic Baby Blanket
  • Pattern: Modern Classic Baby Blanket by Kristin Holloway ($8 crochet pattern available on Ravelry: free version w/ ads available on this website)
  • Hook: I (5.5)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins)
  • Size: Crib Blanket: 36 x 50”
  • The blanket is worked in 2 halves that you seam together at the center to make it symmetrical. The pattern features some crochet cables.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
  • Progress Notes- I finished the 3 round DC border to my December squares. My January squares done and seamed. I need to add the border to that.
 
From the Armchair
 
Reading
Watching:
  • Dan and I recently watched all 4 seasons of Jack Ryan on Prime. We also loved Jury Duty (also on Prime).
  • I'm thoroughly enjoying Love is Blind Season 6 & chatting about it with my friend Laura.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
  • Tune in to hear if you're a January Participation Winner and/or a Grand Prize Winner!
 
Contest, News & Notes
Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers.
 
To make a personal donation, you can use this link 
  • Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser. 
  • I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
 
Life in Focus
 
I gave updates on a few of my 24 for 2024 items
  • #4- Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) well on my way with 10 books in first 2 months of the year.
  • #10- Publish at least one new pattern redid the math and proportions for a shawl I came up with last year. talked to an indie dyer about yarn support
  • #16- go skiing
 
6 of 24 completely done!
 
On a Happy Note
  • Valentine's Day software upgrade at work went well. I was awake at 2:30a so it was a long day and nothing festive really but it was a good day!
  • We hosted Millie and Hattie for their birthday sleepovers. I took them to the Altitude trampoline park and Panera on Friday night. Saturday morning: Millie and I hiked while Hattie and Dan did a dump run and rode around in the tractor. We all did some crafts together before heading to the movies to see Migration.
  • I tried a new OPI nail color and loved it. It's called "Pink in Bio"
  • I've completed teaching 2 of 4 classes on the OMG Heel at my LYS and we've already got more than half of the class successfully turning heels.
  • I enjoyed a movie night at my Mom's to watch Wonka.
  • Dan and I did a 1000 piece Ford puzzle.
  • I went skiing at Crotched Mountain. Tune in to hear a funny story about Megg's fall.
  • We all had a fabulous time at my cousin Jenny's baby shower. She loved her crochet blanket.
  • I had a lovely visit with my middle-school best friend Maribeth who is very sick. She was inpatient at the hospital where I work and I was able to go up and see her and catch up.
  • I love the daily puzzles from the New York Times- especially Spelling Bee. On the 21st I got every possible word earning me Queen Bee status!
  • My friend Trish gave me a souvenir from a trip she took to New Orleans; she went to a local yarn shop and bought yarn from Louisiana- which I'll definitely knit into socks for her. Cat Tails yarn dyed exclusively for the Quarter Stitch Colorway Christmas Bonfires
 
Quote of the Week
It is hard, so terribly hard, to please yourself. Far from being the easy thing that it sounds like, it is almost the hardest thing in the world, because we are not always comfortable with that true self that lies deep within us.
–Christopher Alexander
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_273_-_22924_1.58_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:05pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 272 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Show notes with photos can be found on my website- www.downcellarstudio.com/272
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Knitting in Passing
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Nimbus Vest
  • Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double
  • Needles:  US 10 (6.0mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Notes: I added length to the body before the underarms. I worked 13 inches before the sleeves (4 inches longer than called for)
  • Goofed up working on front left.  Didn't read the instructions well and I bound off stitches for the underarm on the RS of the piece instead of the WS. Thankfully the rows were very short after that, so ripped back and was able to fix it in less than an hour.
  • Seaming- I seamed the shoulders and then the sides before setting in the sleeve. I should have done it in this order 1) shoulders 2) sleeves, 3) sides. This post from Amy Herzog was helpful re: Setting in Sleeves.
  • Collar- added a row of SC around the collar to make it look a little neater.
  • Finished Project 700g.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Jenny's Blanket
  • Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Finished all 5 color-block sections. I am using the 6th color for the border because the blanket was already long enough with 5 colors. The pattern has 2 border options, a scalloped edge & a modified picot edge. The latter is what I was planning but I think instead I'll use a bobble edging.
    • I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket  (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat #2
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks. No colorway listed.
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway- pink/mauve base with taupes, blues, greens and other pinks/maroons.
 
Declan's 2nd Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Greener Pastures Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe.
  • Progress- I finished the first sock and turned the heel on the second sock this weekend.
 
FearLESS Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Cast on for the smallest size and that fits well.
  • About the Colorway- Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock). Sue & Chelsea are donating 50% of sales to our FearLESS Living Fund.
  • Progress: Leg of the first sock is almost done!.
 
Brainstorming
 
Knitting in Passing
  • Millie finished the headband she'd started for Mom.
  • Riley made Mom a chemo hat on a knitting loom in craft class at school.
  • I cast on for a hat with the Plied Yarn we bought for Millie at the Farm Fiber Days event in January and handed it off to Millie to knit a hat for her Dad.
 
From the Armchair
  1. Maybe Once, Maybe Twice by Alison Rose Greenberg. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
 
Tune in to hear about:
  • Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up winners
  • Participation Prize Winners
  • Commentator Update
 
The mad dash to get all those points entered was in full swing on Saturday night (superbowl eve).  As of the time I looked, players had entered 299 projects since the start of February!  
 
On the boards, HikesandBikes (Nikii) shared their experience with a new approach to the tubular cast on where you use Judy's Magic Cast On.  I'd seen this on Patty Lyon's instagram and was intrigued so I was super interested in what Nikii thought of it (as were others).
 
There's also been some talk of knitting and walking. Loonyhiker shared that when she knits and walks she has a lot of interesting conversations because people are fascinated that she can do it.  Deafelis shared the hot tip that Lowes or Home Depot are great places to practice because the aisles are wide and the floors are smooth (so fewer tripping hazards).  Azknitwit noted that an indoor mall might be a great place to practice too!
 
Finally, continuing with a recent theme about how yarn and how many projects to bring when traveling, Socalknit girl shared a sad cautionary tale of how to recover when disaster strikes the one and only project you brought on vacation.
 
Thanks for a fun season! Mary
 
Events
Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers.
 
To make a personal donation, you can use this link 
  • Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser. 
  • I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
 
More About This Project:
February 9th is my mom, Diane Lassonde’s, birthday. Diane came up with the idea for the FearLESS Living Fund when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in December 2021. Since then, each birthday we celebrate with her is precious and this year, with your help, I want to make her birthday month even MORE special by raising funds for this charity she’s created.
 
The FearLESS Living Fund picks up where the Blind Center of Nevada’s services leave off, helping their outstanding clients to live more fearlessly in pursuit of their dreams. In 2023, we gave out over $9,000 in scholarships. You can watch a video of the event here. With your help, we can raise even more.
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
New Videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
  • Yarnable Unboxing- February 2024
  • Diane Lassonde Health Update #10 including more background on the FearLESS Living Fund inspiration with videos from the Blind Center of Nevada and more information about our February Fundraiser.
  • Check out this video with Lisa from Fibernymph Dyeworks about the FearLESS Living Fund and her custom colorway- Dream Big
  • Check out this video with Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz about the FearLESS Living Fund and their custom colorway- FearLESS
 
Life in Focus
 
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
  • In sorting jewelry with Mom, I found a pair of gold earrings and a necklace that coordinate; both have hearts on them. I've been wearing them most of the time and loving them. Connection to her and to my word, which is a million times better than any of the items I was looking at on Etsy.
  • I hung the heart collage photo poster in the dining room with painters tape! Let's not overcomplicate things!
 
24 for 2024 list
  1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
  2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January.
  3. Make & assess goals each month of the year - Jan done
  4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
  5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund
  6. Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items. Bought a beautiful box to put items in. Store in hutch in diningroom where I work most days.
  7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
  8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection
  9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
  10. Publish at least one new pattern
  11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
  12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
  13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room
  14. Take a class
  15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
  16. Go skiing
  17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list
  18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May
  19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
  20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
  21. Buy a new blow dryer.
  22. Get my car detailed
  23. Buy new curtains for living room Ordered 3. We picked one! I ordered more, they arrived and we hung them up! YAY!
  24. Try a new local restaurant
 
On a Happy Note
  • The whole family went to Garret's hockey game and out for dinner after.
  • I've been trying out Dinnerly meal kit delivery service. So far, I'm really enjoying the 2 meals a week I'm getting. The food is fresh and the portions are generous. If you'd like to try it, you can use this link to get a free box. There is a limit, so don't wait. If the link doesn't work, please email me and I can get a unique offer sent to your email address.
  • Birthday dinner at Mom's on her actual birthday with Mom, Dad, Jeff and the kids + Dan.
  • Dad & Riley lipsyncing to Taylor Swift. Hilarious!
  • Birthday dinner for birthday twins, Diane & Hattie. Karaoke, hair shaving, presents, cake and lots of silliness.
  • I planted amaryllis from a bulb that was gifted to me and its flowering beautifully! I'm so excited.
 
Quote of the Week
 
Kindness eases change / Love quiets fear
–OCTAVIA E. BUTLER
 
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Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_272_-_21324_12.33_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 271 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website- www.downcellarstudio.com/271 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • 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 sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
I Love You More Socks
  • Yarn: Malabrigo Arroyo in the Azules colorway (medium denim blue)
  • Needles: US 3(3.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • For these DK socks, I cast on 48 sts and followed the OMG heel instructions for that stitch count. I worked more ruonds of ribbing than I usually do and used that as the whole leg of the sock, then worked heel, and foot as usual.  I included some colorwork in a neon coral DK yarn to say " I love" on the left sock and "you more" on the right sock. When squished up it looks like it says I Love You Mom which is also perfect!
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Jenny's Blanket
  • Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: nearly done with color 2 of 6.
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Knit wit designs. Snack shack sponsor.
  • Progress: nearly ready for the decreases.
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat #2
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks. No colorway listed.
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: more than half way done.
 
Nimbus Vest
  • Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double
  • Needles:  US 10 (6.0mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Notes: I added about 4 inches to the body before the armholes.
 
From the Armchair
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
 
  • We recently had a crafty sleepover at my parents- Kris, Aila, Megg, Hattie, Millie, Riley (Jeff for a bit), Mom & her long-time friend Lin.
  • Needle felting & Alcohol Inks + Fire on Glass (click here for a related video tutorial if you're curious)
 
Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! Check them out at StitchedbyJessalu.com and stay tuned for a special FearLESS Living Fund themed bag coming soon as part of the February Fundraiser for BostonJensMom.
 
In My Travels
 
  • Mom, Millie and I met up with our friend Ryan at the Farm Fiber Days Event at Wayland Farmers Market at Russells Garden Center.
  • Millie was looking for yarn to knit a hat for her dad. We found it in one of the first booths- Plied Yarns. Always great to see Ann Weaver. We did a full loop and went back to purchase yarn.
  • I bought a handsewn chicken potholder set.
  • The Blue Heron Farm (in Vermont) hosted their table for folks to learn Needle Felting. Millie made Ryan a butterfly like the ones she made for us. Thanks to "Auntie Shelly" at Blue Heron for encouraging Millie.
  • I got some great info from Jim Grant from Good Karma Farm about getting going on my Cricular Sock Machine. Check out their video on How to Knit a Sock on Circular Sock Machine for beginners.
  • We got lunch after at The Local. Then Mom and I went back and I bought a few plants, a watering can & a decorative pumpkin from the clearance section.
  • The next Farm Fiber Days at Wayland Farmer's Market is March 3, 2024. Details can be found on their website.
 
Vogue Knitting Live in New York City
  • Class: A Lace for Everything and Everything in Its Lace with Bristol Ivy
  • In the marketplace, I ran into my friend Sarah in the Cowgirlblues booth where I bought some mini skeins.
  • I was thrilled to run into Petrina, Shameika, Twinset Jan
  • I was so happy to meet Pigskin Sponsor, Terri from At Haynes House Yarns.
  • I bought a mini skein bundle from The Golden Purls. I got a quilted bucket bag from M.A.B.E.L, yarn for hat, earrings & a bracelet with fabric covered beads.
 
Other New York City Notable Moments:
  • Saturday- farmer's market, walked the High Line, visited Chelsea Market, had dinner at Shukette & saw Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway.
  • Sunday- we saw Poor Things at a theater in Lincoln Center and continued our Oscar Nominee movie watch with Past Lives & Anatomy of a Fall (which I didn't enjoy as much as The Replacements which we watched earlier in the weekend)
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the 4th Quarter Lolodidit. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Reminder- the KAL ends on February 12th. Get those projects finished!
  • Update from Commentator: Mary
  • There's lots of strategizing and discussion about what there is and is not time to finish before the end of PSP.  Relatedly, there is some discussion about the joys of finishing longstanding WIPs even if those projects don't count for pigskin party.
  • There was also recently some discussion on pros and cons of different approaches to provisional cast ons, including a method where you use a stitch saver instead of scrap yarn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olAZk2tkTus). 
  • Finally, there's been some talk of travel plans including the intense decision making process that crafters go through when they are trying to decide what projects to bring on a trip.  This has included discussion of pros and cons of checking luggage vs. carrying on and some musings about who decided that packing light is a value we should all aspire to anyway.
  • Kristen recently shared a link to a story about monkeyshine hunting.  Its a neat tradition that coincides with lunar new year in Tacoma. https://gritcitymag.com/2020/01/a-little-backstory-on-monkeyshines-in-tacoma/
  • Here's a highlight from the endzone dance thread: Sandyrlevin completed an amazing sweater with a really detailed octopus on it. She did it all with duplicate stitch!  It is truly amazing. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Sandyrlevin/217-12-amur-maple
 
 
Events
 
Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers.
 
To make a personal donation, you can use this link 
  • Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser. 
  • I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
 
More About This Project:
February 9th is my mom, Diane Lassonde’s, birthday. Diane came up with the idea for the FearLESS Living Fund when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in December 2021. Since then, each birthday we celebrate with her is precious and this year, with your help, I want to make her birthday month even MORE special by raising funds for this charity she’s created.
 
The FearLESS Living Fund picks up where the Blind Center of Nevada’s services leave off, helping their outstanding clients to live more fearlessly in pursuit of their dreams. In 2023, we gave out over $9,000 in scholarships. You can watch a video of the event here. With your help, we can raise even more.
 
I also have some wonderful goodies here that I am going to giveaway. I'll be pulling winners from those who donate via the PayPal page. Be sure to mention you're part of the Fiber Community Fundraiser and list your Instagram or Ravelry Name so I can find you and send you your prize.
 
Life in Focus
 
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
  • Found a heart mural in NYC
  • Bought a small heart shaped pottery dish to use for stitch markers at a local shop where everything is handcrafted by disabled students at their school.
  • Made a collage of photos (from Walgreens template) from family photo shoot and had it printed 11x14. Now I need to find a place to hang it.
  • Looked at heart jewelry but didn't find any pieces that were "me" so I'm still looking.
 
24 for 2024 List- updates
  1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
  2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. ($51,397- includes CD)
  3. Make & assess goals each month of the year
  4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
  5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund (DONE)
  6. Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items.
  7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
  8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection (DONE)
  9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
  10. Publish at least one new pattern
  11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
  12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
  13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress
  14. Take a class (DONE)
  15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
  16. Go skiing
  17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 1) Hercules
  18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May
  19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
  20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
  21. Buy a new blow dryer.
  22. Get my car detailed (DONE)
  23. Buy new curtains for living room- ordered some to try on 1/19
  24. Try a new local restaurant - Lolita (want one even MORE local)
 
4 of 24 done in January!
 
On a Happy Note
  • I was chatting with my friend Margarita who is from the Philippines. She mentioned she gets dried mango in bulk from home and sent some over to me! So sweet of her!
  • Movie night with Liz- Hercules.
  • Car Detailing! It literally feels and smells like a new car! Usually 3+ month wait list- but not at this time of year.
  • Mom made it through Round 1 of Chemo- 3 days in a row. My cousin Jenny (also a nurse at the hospital) visited during day 2 and our cousin Joanie took Mom in on day 3 instead of dad. It was great to spend some quality time with them.
  • Seeing Moulin Rouge with Megg at the Boston Opera House (and dinner at Lolita beforehand)
  • Quality time with Laura & my first visit to NYC since before the pandemic...
 
Quote of the Week
Energy creates energy. It is by spending myself that I become rich.
–SARAH BERNHARDT
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Direct download: Episode_271_-_13124_9.40_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:51am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 270 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Calendula Christmas Quilt
  • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
  • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am extending what is written as a square into a rectangle.
  • 64 squares now. about 24 totally seamed
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
  • Progress Notes- first 3 sets of squares seamed & border added. December squares- all 9 done. not seamed.
 
Jen/Riley's Matching Hexi Blankets
  • Pattern: Using this photo tutorial & this video tutorial.
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • We are making 4 round hexagons.
  • As Riley finishes one, she texts me and I work up my corresponding mini. We've done 14 so far. I'm making collages in Canva for each.
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Knit Wit Sesigns is a Pigskin Snack Shack Sponsor.
  • Progress: around 75% done.
  • I think this pattern is a great use for Felici which I've found doesn't hold up as well to hard wearing things like socks.
 
Nimbus Vest
  • Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern on the Berrocco website)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double
  • Needles:  US 10 (6.0mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I'm currently working on the back and am almost done with the 13 inches I need before I decrease for the armholes.
 
Declan's 2nd Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Greener Pastures Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe.
  • Progress- the first sock probably about ready for the toe. Second sock- cuff is done, about 3 inches into the leg.
  • I also did some darning on his first pair of handknit socks.
 
Brainstorming
 
Bought yarn for 3 blanket projects huge sale at Joann
  • Conor & Carly Baby using this crochet pattern on Ravelry.
  • Colleen & Patrick Baby Blanket using this crochet pattern on Ravelry.
  • Jenny & Manny Baby Blanket  using the Modified Sedge Stitch Baby Blanket- a $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry.
 
From the Armchair
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
 
Events
  • Vogue Knitting Live, New York: January 25-28th, 2024
    • I'm taking classes on Friday & then planning to go to the market 5-8p Friday.
  • I'm teaching a class on the OMG Sock Pattern at Staci's Stitches in Scituate, MA on Sundays starting February 18th (4 classes)- the class is SOLD OUT
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • Yarnable Unboxing January 2024 Video posted- this kit came with stitch markers with numbers on them, 25, 50, 75, 100 intended for use when casting on a large amount of stitch. Hawkeygirl3 on YouTube suggested it would also be great for counting rows/rounds like on the leg of a sock if you want to do matching ones! Great idea
 
Life in Focus
2023 Review:
  • Knitting/Crochet/Spinning
    • 61 Finished Projects
    • 32 knitting - 2 sweaters (1 for me, 1 for Mom). Lots of hats & socks.
    • 29 crochet (same as last year)- 9 toys
    • 43 are gifts (+ 3 charity items)
    • Spinning- 3 finished projects. 880 meters of yarn. (3 Spinning WIPs)
Favorite projects
 
2023 Numbers:
  • 50 Books read
  • 24 Podcast Episodes
  • 66 Videos on YouTube (some only available for Patrons)
  • YouTube Subscribers- 461 new subscribers, 2,578 subscribers total
  • 5 times- Donated Blood
  • 14 Massages
  • Book Signings- 1
  • Plays/Musicals/drag Shows- 12
  • Concerts- 5 (night time only in Nashville) + 1 (Kane Brown) + 1 (Lainey Wilson ) + 1 (Old Dominion)= 8
  • Birthday Sleepovers- 3
  • Fiber Events- 6 (Russells, CT sheep & Wool, Maryland, Rhinebeck, C&SSYH, Fiber Fest of NE)
  • Trips: Nashville, Maryland, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Rhinebeck.
23 for 2023 list
  1. Read 23 books (35 as of August)
  2. Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes
  3. Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos  (ordered 8/9 from Walgreens- 8x10 for $12!)
  4. Kayak in one new place Did not complete
  5. Hike in one new place
  6. See 4 plays/musicals (Hamilton 2/9, Shrek in March twice. Secret Garden at Company in April, Matilda [Millie] in May)
  7. Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October & December done)
  8. Knit myself a pair of mittens
  9. Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun (Strathcona sweater "aka my Rhinebeck sweater"
  10. Watch 3 movies in one day (1/22 w/ Mom, Terri, Megg- Everything. Everywhere, All At Once. Women Talk. Armageddon Time)
  11. See a movie in the theater (A Man Called Otto w/ Laura)
  12. Go to a museum (Liz and I went in December)
  13. Finish 1 punch needle project- Did not complete
  14. Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4)- Did not complete
  15. Try at least 1 new gym/in person fitness option 4/8- consult at Big Day Fitness. First class on 4/10. Signed up for a month. 
  16. Make at least 1 new financial investment (CD started in February)
  17. Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. After a smaller clean out earlier in the year, I took a full car load to Savers in October- lots of clothes.
  18. Publish 1 knitting pattern
  19. Send 5 cards to friends/family just because- Did not complete
  20. Go Camping- Did not complete
  21. Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
  22. Take a class (in person or virtual)- Zumba twice.
  23. Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists.
 
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
Definitions:
  • The central or innermost part of something
  • To like very much, love
  • courage, determination, hope or enthusiasm (don't lose heart)
  • the vital part or essence
  • one's real nature (at heart)
 
What I want to focus on in 2024:
  • Stay close to my family- which is the heart and life blood of my life.
  • Be true to my heart- what I value, what's most important to me.
  • I won't lose heart even when times are hard.
  • I will be true to my heart, my real nature, the heart of me.
 
2024-  Goals:
  • Use my podcast/YouTube/Instagram following to raise money for the FearLESS Living Fund (details in the Ravelry group- and email if you're one of our regular sponsors)
  • Make & assess goals every month in 2024
  • Monthly review of number of workouts + weigh on at least twice a month.
  • Stretch/Theragun 2-4 times a week [][][][]
 
24 for 2024 list
  1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
  2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January.
  3. Make & assess goals each month of the year
  4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
  5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund
  6. Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items.
  7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
  8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection
  9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
  10. Publish at least one new pattern
  11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
  12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
  13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room
  14. Take a class
  15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
  16. Go skiing
  17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list
  18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May
  19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
  20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
  21. Buy a new blow dryer.
  22. Get my car detailed
  23. Buy new curtains for living room
  24. Try a new local restaurant
 
Health update on my Mom, Diane: She was hospitalized for several days because of issues with heart palpitation and then we learned her cancer is back in brain, lymph nodes, pleura (lining of lungs) and ribs. She will start with the same chemo she had last time (Oct '22- March '23). It’s likely she’ll also need radiation for the brain, but will do an MRI 4 weeks after chemo starts to know for sure & decide what’s best… Health update video coming soon. Keep those prayers and good wishes coming. Diane starts chemo Monday 1/22.
 
On a Happy Note
  • We had a great visit with my friend Laura who was here for New Year's. We struck a great balance of lazily watching tv (The Gilded Age & Slow Horses) and getting out and about. We also went to see Boys in the Boat the movie theater.
  • My parents' annual open house the Saturday after Christmas.
  • Mom gave the girls needle felting kits for Christmas; Millie Facetimed me several times with questions and showing me her progress!
  • Getting sick has not been fun, but the fact that it didn't ruin my holidays and the fact that work is also still relatively quiet is a huge happy note. Dan has been taking great care of me, and we're rewatching Hell On Wheels.
  • I spent Sunday of MLK weekend at my parents'. We played Wordle board game (Amazon affiliate link) with Mom, Riley, Millie and Aila. We visited my cousin Jenny's new house, got our nails done, went out for Mexican, played more games! Fun impromptu sleepover.
  • Millie- All of the Jokers have been Joked! and telling Grammy to "be her best self" adorable.
 
Quote of the Week
 
Everything and everyone at their own pace. Flow with not against yourself.
-Akiroq Brost
 
------
Thank you for tuning in.
Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#
If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.
Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_270_-_11524_1.35_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:18pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 269 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Tailgate Party Mittens
  • Pattern: Tailgate Party Hat & Mittens by Wendy Gaal of Knitters Brewing Co
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Dancing Leaf Dyeworks. Bee Bop 100% SW Merino DK  (no colorway name)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • After finishing the mittens, I used Duplicate Stitch to write "fear" on the left palm and "less" on the right palm. I used this video tutorial from Very Pink Knits to help me.
 
Boxing Gloves Ornament
  • Pattern: Boxing Gloves by Michael Hon ($3 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Caron One Pound in Scarlet + white acrylic worsted weight yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • These worked up in one busy evening after work and were a gift for the owners of my gym.
 
Colourful Mini Dino
  • Pattern: Colourful Mini Dino by Anika Kam (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Lady Slipper colorway + mystery worsted acrylic yarn of a similar shade of purple
 
Clown collar
  • Pattern: improvsing on my own. Used this free Clown Ruff pattern from Slipped Stitch Hollow as a starting point
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle (Gray), Big Twist Value (Grape), Craft Smart Neon Value (neon yellow) & mystery worsted sparkle yarn in pink and white
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project
  • 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: working on second 4 oz in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway in 70/30 BFL/Tussah Silk
 
Christmas in July Socks
  • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Area 51. Snack shack sponsor.
  • Progress: finished first sock. Half way through leg on second.
 
Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
 
Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Calendula Christmas Quilt
  • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
  • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
 
From the Armchair
 
Books 2 & 3 of the Silo Series:
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
 
Crafty Adventures
  • We celebrated Christmas with friends by decorating Gingerbread houses which was a ton of fun!
 
Knitting in Passing
I went consignment shopping and reminded the owner that we'd met before and that I was the "knitter" and she promptly asked for help with gauge math for a handspun cabled sweater she wants to cast on.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • I announced November participation winners.
  • Updates from Commenter- Mary
    • Pigskin partiers have been busy this month! Over 500 projects have been submitted for points already this month! Players are finishing both small and large projects. There have been over 30 blitzes and over 40 safeties so far this month.
    • There’s still time to participate in the Q3 challenge.  14 people have submitted their finished projects for the challenge so far. BlkGirlsKnitPurl (EJ) posted a beautiful Christmas-y version in the end zone dance thread: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/BlkGirlsKnitPurl/the-waymaker-cowl
    • In the huddle thread, lots of folks who have time off at the end of the year and/or are traveling have been discussing plans for what to work on. There’s also lots of talk of holiday plans and gift knits! Finally, there’s been a bit of chatter about the pros and cons of monogamous knitting and strategies to make sure you are never caught waiting somewhere without a project to work on. 
 
Contest, News & Notes
Vlogmas 2023 highlights:
  • Day 15: Gingerbread Houses
  • Day 23: At the request of viewer, Suzanne, I shared a few of my shawl patterns, MEGAROW, World of Difference, Boxing Day Bonus and the Riley Rose Shawl. You can use coupon code 10years for 25% off my patterns on Ravelry through the Superbowl!
  • You can find the full 2023 Vlogmas Playlist here.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Riley’s sleepover. Crafting. Watching Spirited (Apple tv movie) for first time.
  • Dana and Sheri’s Christmas party.
  • Helping with and enjoying Hattie & Aila's dance recital
  • Gifting Hattie her ride-on Jeep
  • We lost power in a storm, but the power outage was shorter quicker than usual. Dan finished his advent puzzles.
  • Helping to hide Secret Santas at the gym. Taylor, who was the actual Secret Santa, also gifted me a handmade wooden tree and ornament! They are so beautiful and I'm thankful for her thoughtfulness.
  • Christmas lunch with my friends Waveney and Kim.
  • Running into Megg at the consignment store I kept telling her to visit. We bought found Christmas outfits!
  • Relaxing Christmas Eve day and ending the day at my cousin Susan’s party.
  • Christmas Day- playing on the floor with Gabriella and Zachary. Seeing Will and Aila excited about Christmas even well into their teens. A fabulous and fun time spent with my family for the rest of the day.
  •  
Quote of the Week
Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see.
–John Green
 
------
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_269_-_122923_8.52_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 268 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Domingo the Easter Goat
  • Pattern: I used the basic idea from this crochet pattern available on Etsy.
  • Hook:
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Clarity (blue- body), Mint (green- stripe on egg), Custard (yellow- egg) + pink and taupe mystery yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I made mine much smaller than called for in the Etsy pattern. chained around 10 stitches, worked in the round from there to make a base and then come up for body/head like a Squishmallow.
 
Space Daddy Socks
  • Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
 
Liz's Socks
  • Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Area 51 Fibres is Snack Shack Sponsor.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
  • Progress Notes- I crocheted all 9 squares from the November kit (theme- Tomb of the Lost Queen). I still need to seam them up and add a border
 
Christmas in July Socks
  • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Area 51 Fibres is Snack Shack Sponsor.
  • Progress: 1st sock is finished.
 
Same as It Ever Was Hat
  • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Sarah Jordan of Knit/Wit designs is a Snack Shack Sponsor.
 
Colourful Mini Dino
  • Pattern: Colourful Mini Dino by Anika Kam (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Lady Slipper colorway + mystery worsted acrylic yarn of a similar shade of purple
 
Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
  • Progress: I'm about half way through the leg of the first sock.
 
Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: keeping up on one sock. The other has maybe 6 stripes. After day 12 ready to turn heel so I might get behind for a couple days depending.
  • Woolens & Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor.
 
Vampires of Venice Spinning
  • Fiber: Into the Whirled. 4oz Falkland in the Vampires of Venice colorway.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Split braid in half. First half has already been spun, washed and dried.
  • Plan is to use the yarn to knit this Tweed Tie available on Ravelry.
 
Tailgate Party Mittens
  • Pattern: Tailgate Party Hat & Mittens by Wendy Gaal of Knitters Brewing Co
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Dancing Leaf Dyeworks. Bee Bop 100% SW Merino DK  (no colorway name)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Brainstorming
 
I have such a strong urge to cast on a Christmas afghan that has a quilt-like effect. Any suggestions for me?
 
  • Crochet Star Quilt by Sandra Paul (~$6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Sport weight yarn
  • C2C Barn Quilt Blanket by Emily Marie Davies ($5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry or on this website)
  • Granny Square Snowflake Blanket by Briana K Designs ($8 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry
  • Winter Plaid Blanket  by Mallory Krall- (~4.66 crochet pattern on Ravelry)
 
From the Armchair
Wool by Hugh Howey (The Silo Series- Book 1) Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
Sled Decorating with Mom. Check out our beautiful project.
 
Knitting in Passing
  • In talking about vlogging at the gym, we also got talking about knitting and I learned that my friend Taylor wants to learn to knit.
  • I was knitting at Nutcracker intermission and Hattie did a stitch before the lights went down.
  • I was knitting at my niece's Funky Nutcracker performance which was so long. Megg’s neighbors said I’d have a whole blanket done before it was over.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Updates from Commentator Mary
  • Tune in to hear if you're the winner of the Quarter 2 challenge.
  • November Participation Prize Winners be will announced in the next episode.
  • Updates from Commentator Mary
    • There’s lots of talk about favorite warm beverages and baking in the December thread:
      • If you are a tea lover, check out post 288, where multiverseknits shared some of their favorite places to buy tea. 
      • If you are a sourdough baker, check out post 628 where lmecoll shared a recipe for sourdough chocolate chip cookies that she will not be making but has heard are quite good. 
    • I also popped over to the end zone dance thread to see what people have finished lately. One project in particular caught my eye:
      • Rubyrx recently finished a slip stitch party shawl in yarn from sheep she raised! She proceeded, spun, dyed and knit up the yarn into a gorgeous shawl! Amazing!! Check it out on Ravelry.
 
Events
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
On a Happy Note
  • December 1 we celebrated Dan's birthday & Mom's 2nd anniversary of diagnosis. So grateful she’s here!
  • Mom, Riley, Trish, Merry and I went to a Sample Sale. Mom, Riley and I then did more shopping and a "bakery tour." I definitely recommend that Vlogmas episode. It’s very silly.
  • Attending live performances of: Aladdin Jr. , the Nutcracker, The Plot Thickens and the Funky Nutcracker.
  • Running into my old boss at work
  • Hattie's sleepover. She enjoyed crafting time, pancakes and a tractor ride with Uncle Dan.
  • My cousin Colleen having a baby boy in June!
  • Deer in the compost bins.
  • Working on a puzzle advent with Dan.
 
Quote of the Week
"Summer is for surrendering; winter is for wondering.”  — Debasish Mridha
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_268_-_121523_1.15_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:19pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 267 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, The Little Wolf Knits & Suburban Stitcher
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Splash Socks
  • Yarn: Biscotte Yarn Bis Sock in the Splash Colorway (blue self-striping yarn)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Made for David Markus as a thank you for donating to the FearLESS Living Fund in October of 2023. Finished in time for Laura to bring them back with her after her visit the weekend before Thanksgiving.
  • Length of foot- 8.5 inches before toe
  • Knit them in line at a Sample Sale Mom, Laura, Trish and I went to the Saturday morning of Laura's visit. People in line jumped in to photo bomb so that was fun.
 
2 Christmas Stockings
 
 
Drawn Together Cowl
  • Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on
  • Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.
 
 
Wish Star
  • Patterns: Sol Amigurumi by Vanessa Doncatto (free crochet pattern on Ravelry )
  • Hooks: B (2.25 mm), C (2.75 mm) & D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Big Twist- Solids in Varsity Yellow (for the sun body) and Big Twist Twinkle in Yellow for the heart/face. Leftover red fingering yarn for the mustache.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Made on Black Friday afternoon
 
Brachiosaurus
  • Pattern:  Dinosaur Jurassic World No Sew Crochet Pattern by Klein Maker on Etsy ($9.89 for 4 patterns)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Jade colorway (body) & Knit Picks Brava Worsted in the Sky colorway
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern wouldn't be ideal for beginners. Doesn't tell you when/where to put in Safety Eyes before closing things up. No other major issues, but just be thoughtful. I paid less than $4 for the 4 pack of dino patterns. Worth it.
 
Bobble pumpkin
  • Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Succulent Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I used nearly all 97 meters in this skein with 6 repeats of the pattern.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Silver Spoon Socks
  • Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
  • Progress: Almost done with the first leg.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
  • Progress Notes- 1st two sets of squares are done. I've crocheted a few from the November kit.
 
Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting
  • Progress: I'm about half way through the leg of the first sock.
 
Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Note- pair 199 of OMG Heel Socks!
 
DK Bella Fio Socks
  • Yarn: BellaFio DK Sock (75% SW Merino/ 25% recycled nylon) in the Great Gray Owl colorway.  Goosey Fibers Goosey Hefty (100% SW Merino- Worsted Weight) in Buckbeack (cuffs, heels and toes)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About this project: Great Gray Owl colorway is a beautiful blend of light blues with hints of green, some small bits of a yellowy green and some neutral cream/tan hues. Buckbeak is a beautiful taupe color that pairs beautifully and I love that both colorway names are based on birds. Perfect for our Q2 challenge! Thanks again to BellaFio for sponsoring this month and encouraging us to Embrace Nature!
  • Pair 200 of OMG Heel for me!
 
Vampires of Venice Spinning
  • Fiber: Into the Whirled. 4oz Falkland in the Vampires of Venice colorway.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Split braid in half. First half has already been spun.
  • Plan is to use the yarn to knit this Tweed Tie available on Ravelry.
 
Clown collar
  • Pattern: improvsing on my own. Used this free Clown Ruff pattern from Slipped Stitch Hollow as a starting point
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle (Gray), Big Twist Value (Grape), Craft Smart Neon Value (neon yellow) & mystery worsted sparkle yarn in pink and white
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I had a quick visit with Emelyn while they were home for Thanksgiving break. When I asked if there was anything on their Christmas wish list I should know about, they said they'd like a handmade clown collar! I love a good curveball!
 
Brainstorming
  • Millie wants a goat squishy/toy that looks like her squishmellow
  • I'd like to make toys for Hattie and Gabriella and another dinosaur for Zachary.
  • Mom picked out a skein of yarn for mitts at Rhinebeck that I'd like to knit up before Christmas.
  • I'd like to make 1 other pumpkin.
 
From the Armchair
 
Escaping Twin Flames Documentary on Netflix
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Knitting in Passing
  • I shared two recent stories about meeting other knitters/talking about knitting in the wild. I met a lovely woman named Joanne at her consignment shop. She was knitting when Mom was wandering around the store so of course she struck up a conversation. Turns out, Joanne also spins too! We had a lovely chat and Mom took a photo of us.
  • I was recently waiting for my car to get it's oil changed when a kind.79 year old woman asked about my knitting and we ended up chatting for an hour. We talked about restoration of old Victorian in my home town where she owns a condo now.
 
Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! The 2023 Limited Edition Holiday prints are currently listed - hurry to order yours while they are still available!
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • In this episode:
    • Finish up your Q2 Project by the end of November. Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
    • Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
    • WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
    • Updates from Commentator Mary
 
Lots of players are talking about double-dipping in other make-alongs. A great thing about the PSP is that you can work on whatever you want so it is easy to have one project count for both PSP points and another MAL!
  • Hikesandbikes is planning an epic shawl project (the Genesis Shawl- check out her Ravelry Project Page) for the Yarniacs podcast’s self-indulgent make along. Find details in their Ravelry group.
  • Many many players are planning to participate in PSP-sponsor Imagined Landscapes’ snow matter what December mystery gnome knit along. There’s lots of chatter on the boards about what colors folks plan to use. 
  • There’s also some talk of the Indie Gift Along which is hosted on Ravelry. Several PSP sponsors are participating so this one is particularly ripe for double-dipping!
  • Some players are also planning on joining Andrea Mowry’s instafriends KAL
  • Also on the boards there is lots of chatter about holiday movies, including Emmet Otter’s Jug Band. That is a new to me Jim Henson movie that I definitely plan to check out!
 
 
Events
  • THANK YOU to everyone who donated handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Check out these beautiful photos.
  • I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists:  Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist
  • Advent Knitting. Check out this Ravelry Bundle put together by Knitty Natty if you need ideas for an Advent project. Thanks for including my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl- Ravelry | LoveCrafts. Don't forget you can use coupon code 10 years for 25% off any of my patterns on Ravelry.
  • Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024 (not sure if I'll be there yet. More to come)
 
Contest, News & Notes
What's going on on the YouTube Channel?
  • Health Update videos with Mom (Diane Lassonde). Check out Part 1 and Part 2.
  • November Let the Mystery Unravel Video
 
On a Happy Note
  • My friend Laura visited from NYC the weekend before Thanksgiving! We did some consignment shopping & went out to eat with Mom on Friday. Saturday we went to a Sample sale then a couple craft fairs with Mom & Trish. We had a wuick visit to Megg and got to see my nephew Oisin.
  • We survived a big regulatory visit at the hospital I work at.
  • Thanksgiving highlights- Coloring with Gabriella, reading and making snowflakes with my cousins' kids.
  • Black Friday shopping. No lines
  • Decorating with Mom and Dad. Oisín signing Christmas carols.
  • Decorating our tree with Liz.
  • Dan is finished a huge work project. Crazy hours over holiday but it all went well.
  • I'll do an update on my 23 for 2023 list in the next episode but I'm feeling really good about it. If you do these kinds of lists, I'd love to crowdsource ideas in the Ravelry Group!
 
Quote of the Week
 
For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock.
–James Baldwin 
 
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_267_-_112823_6.39_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:24am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 266 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Rising Tide Fiber Co, Enchanted Etchings, Chit Chat Knits
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
3 Crochet Charity Hats
  • Wool Ease Thick & Quick Bedrock Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 9 mm crochet hook
    • Standard circle increases up to (inc, sc5)
  • Lion Brand Baby's First Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook.
  • Purple Crochet Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook. Mystery yarn.
 
Perry's Christmas Hat
  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers, Squishy DK. OOAK colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing. US 7 (4.5 mm) for body.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Notes- This is the 14th time I've knit this pattern. Yarn was a sample from collab with Cait for my Stay Out of the Forest Hat which you can find on  Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
 
I blocked & sewed the buttons on Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
  • Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023
  • My Ravelry Project Page
 
I added belt loops to Mom's Wave of Change Cardigan- Ravelry Project Page.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Liz's Socks
  • Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Jen/Riley's Matching Hexi Blankets
  • Pattern: Using this photo tutorial & this video tutorial.
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • We are making 4 round hexagons.
  • As Riley finishes one, she texts me and I work up my corresponding mini. We've done 4 so far.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I finished the 3-round border in the dark gray.
 
Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project
  • 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Christmas Stockings
 
 
Brainstorming
  • I received my Woolens & Nosh Advent socks. I wound up the contrast color and I'm going to plan to finish both cuffs before December 1st.
 
From the Armchair
 
  1. The Armor of Light by Ken Follett (read by John Lee). Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. Red White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
In My Travels
 
Fiber Festival of New England
  • Ran into Jean (Mazzy Girl), Amy (CapeNeddickknitter),  Michelle- chellescrips, Jen, Carlos, Aurora & Zelda.
  • Jess & Roger and team from Stitched by Jessalu. Donated a percentage of their sales to our FearLESS Living Fund. Donation for $350 came through this week and we are so grateful. If any other sponsors would like to do a fundraiser like this in the future, let us know! We'd love to help promote it.
  • Check out our video to see the Eastern States Exposition Center, see what we bought and all of the fun eye candy!
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
#DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Updates this Episode
    • Tune in to hear if you won an October Participation Prize.
    • I also announced the winners of our Announce Q1 Challenge winners- hosted by Paper Daisy Creations.
    • Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
    • I gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge.  Check out the Waymaker Cowl by Amanda Massingill (Mandi's Makings). Free knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
    • WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
    • I announced October Participation Prize Winners, Quarter 1 Challenge Winners & gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge hosted by Mandi's Makings. Check out The Waymaker Cowl on Ravelry.
    • Update from Commissioners:
      • There is lots of excitement about the Q2 challenge.
      • Most of the people who have finished have completed hats. If you poke around the scoreboard and the chat threads you’ll see so many stunning examples. For example, quite a few folks have finished patterns from the knitting the National parks book. 
        • Juliepoolie71 made the Crater Lakes hat. Ravelry Project Page.
        • Esalaza made the Hawai’i Volcanoes Beanie. Ravelry Project Page.
        • Knitternicole made the Theodore Roosevelt Beanie. Ravelry Project Page.
      • But you don’t have to knit a hat for this challenge. Hollyelyse finished a whole colorwork sweater for the challenge (in 10 days!) Check out the Ravelry Project Page.
      • You don’t even have to knit for this challenge. You can crochet or spin too. For example:
        • Sarahsyarn86 is crocheting adorable granny squares that have daisies in the center. Check out the Ravelry Project Page.
        • Katanorand is working on a spinning project using fiber in the colorway strawberry fields. Check out this Ravelry Post
 
Events
  • My cousin Linda's friend is looking for warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!
  • I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists:  Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist
  • Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024
 
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
On a Happy Note
  • For Halloween, Mom & I reprised our Sanderson sister roles. I trick or treated with Hattie for a little while then hung out by the fire with family and friends.
  • Megg & I bought a 5 pack of tickets for shows at the Boston Opera House this season. Our first show was November 1st, Frozen. We were able to add on two tickets and bring Millie and Hattie with us. We had an absolutely magical night!
  • On the Saturday while Mom & I were at New England Fiber Festival, Riley was texting me. She did her first hexi all on her own! Then a couple more! When she ran out of minis, she moved onto her Riley Rose Cowl and sent a photo of her knitting and watching Gilmore Girls. Be still my heart!
  • Watching Gabriella & Zachary for the afternoon.
  • Finally making a dent in my Christmas shopping. My goal the last couple years has been to be completely finished before December 1 so I can really enjoy December. Sometimes I'm better at that than other years, but I'm going to really try hard to get that done by my deadline this year.
  • One of my cousin Lauren's friends from Amsterdam gifted me a pack of Stroopwafels which I enjoyed with coffee in my new chicken mug from NE Fiber Fest!
  • We went to Flight Club in Seaport District of Boston for Conor's 35th Birthday- just after I found out he and Carly are expecting their first baby in June (right around my. birthday)!
 
Quote of the Week
 
Bad luck in small doses can cast a glittering light on the rest of life.
–Ann Patchett
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_266_-_111523_8.13_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:13pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 265 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
 
This week's segments included:
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Cniotáil Láimhe Designs on Ravelry & Buxom Cat Knits
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
  • Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023
  • My Ravelry Project Page
 
Sneaky Pumpkins (& their Ghost friends)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic (various) in white, orange and brown.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Pattern: Cute Halloween Decorations by Laura Sillar (~$3.85 US Crochet pattern) available on Ravelry
  • Safety Eyes from 6060 on Etsy.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About this Project: I saw this on Instagram and knew I had to make them because "sneaky pumpkins" is a running joke for Liz, Riley and me. You'll find shots of sneaky pumpkins all through our Rhinebeck weekend videos on Youtube-  Part 1 (Indie Untangled) and Part 2 (Rhinebeck).
  • I made 3 sets, one for each of us.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Liz's Socks
  • Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress- I finished the first sock in Vegas and half of the second sock at Rhinebeck. I'm beyond the heel on sock #2 now.
 
Christmas Stockings
 
  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • I thought I had 3 to make before Thanksgiving, but it's really only two which is a huge relief.
  • Progress: The front & back of one stocking is done. I finished the foot shaping on the both sides of the stocking.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Riley helped me complete the 9 squares for October. I've single crocheted them together and started the border.
 
Brainstorming
 
Samples & patterns we found at Rhinebeck:
 
  • Mini Mock Neck Tank by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 knitting pattern available on Ravelry).
  • The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the Drea Renee Knits website)
  • PhD Candidate Sweater by Hannah Mann (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
 
In My Travels
Las Vegas
  • We attended the BOSS Reseller Remix Event hosted at the Blind Center of Nevada
  • FearLESS Living Fund: find all of our links to social media etc on this linktree.
  • We ran a silent auction and raised over $6k
  • Gave away the first two awards to Blind Center Clients. Video will be available soon.
 
Rhinebeck with Mom, Liz and Riley
  • Friday- we grabbed lunch then headed to Indie Untangled for the last spot of the day.
  • We got an AirBnB in Hudson that was adorable. Saturday we arrived at the Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck around 11a. We shopped until 2p meet-up. It was sS lovely seeing/meeting so many of you! We chatted for awhile- longer than Riley would have liked, I'm sure! See the video for candid reactions!  Then we shopped until they closed.
  • Saturday night we had dinner at a lovely little place in Hudson - the Grazin' Diner.
  • Sunday morning we shopped with Lauren and her boyfriend Pete, then checked out the animal barns, bought more stuff!
  • I bought nearly all of the things on my "to purchase" list.
  • Check out Part 1 (Indie Untangled) and Part 2 (Rhinebeck) videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Commentator Updates- tune in to hear more. I talked about the following- these are all RAVELRY project pages:
  • Stats
    • 525 Participants
    • Of those, 323 with Points
    • Average of those with points 552 Points
    • Highest: 4332 & Lowest: 10
    • Blitzes 52
    • Top 3 players: 1) foryouandyarn (4332 points) 2) Pebblesgirlcraft (3839 points), 3) mostlymunchies (3626 points)
    • Top Conference: LFC
    • Top Team: #7 Garter Guards 21,8356
  • Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • WIPs Challenge- starting 11/10. Stay tuned for more details.
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
My cousin Linda's friend is looking for warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!
 
Life in Focus
  • Mom's October scans showed no changes! Cancer is stable at this time. She goes back again for scans in January!
 
Ask Me Anything
Shana asked about any recent Savers adventures. Tune in for a story that's more of a misadventure (spoiler alert- all ends well)
 
On a Happy Note
  • Vegas- pool day with sharks in the tank & dressing as the Sanderson sisters for the Gala.
  • Rhinebeck weekend. Great time with Mom, Liz and Riley. Liz did 100% of the driving and it saved me! I am so grateful. The 4 of us just got along so well and had so much fun. 2p meet-up. So many compliments on my sweaters- both Sat and Sun. Everyone loved Mom's sweater too. Found buttons for her on Saturday.
  • Sing-a-long on the drive home from Rhinebeck.
  • Liz found Mom's favorite blow up seat cushion when she dropped her fidget spinner under the seat and had to retrieve it!
  • Laura (lauraknitspa) brought her Abington Mitts to show me (Ravelry Project Page link)
  • I got to see our youngest niece and nephew- Gabriella & Zach when Dan and Oisin were over at their house putting in a new shed. We watched a Curious George Halloween Special that Gabriella was dying to show me, had a snack and read books in their tent before I had to go.
  • Dan & I attended a Clue (movie based on the board game) Party as Miss Scarlet & Mr. Green. After striking out at the thrift stores, I bought a dress on Amazon that was more perfect than I realized. Thanks to Mom, I had the perfect costume jewelry. Dan brought all sorts of props from home for the "weapons." Fun was had by all.
 
Quote of the Week
 
Daily life may seem trivial and routine, but in fact it contains a multitude of incidents, at once rich, expansive, and touching.
–YU HUA 
------
 
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_265_-_103023_8.25_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:48pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 264  of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Benjamin's Christmas Stocking
 
Strathcona Sweater
  • Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website)
  • Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway
  • Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body)
  • I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Liz's Socks
  • Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress- 6 inches on the first leg & a couple rows of the heel. I purposely
 
Drawn Together Cowl
  • Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on
  • Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round)
  • Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.
 
Space Daddy Socks
  • Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
  • Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023
  • My Ravelry Project Page
 
Brainstorming
 
During the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul, Liz found a sweater pattern she likes- The Order of the Jedi Pullover by Meghan Regan. Available on in Star Wars Knitting the Galaxy: The Official Star Wars Knitting Pattern Book.
 
Garter Stitch Cardigans
  • Cruiser by Kristen Finlay ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Kallias by Isabell Kraemer is another contender.
    • Worsted weight cardigan, no button bands, positive ease. ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
 
I talked a bit about travel knitting/crochet for my upcoming trip to Vegas/NY
 
Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz is crocheting a super bulky blanket and I'm totally inspired!
 
From the Armchair
Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
 
Events
 
  • Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
  • NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023
    • Join Me for a Rhinebeck Meet Up- Saturday 2p. There are permanent booths with food next to Building A. Across from that is a beer tent. To the left of the beer tent there's a covered pavilion area. Look for Mom, Liz, Riley & I there.
    • Come over to the Ravelry Thread about Pigskin Partiers going to Rhinebeck. Thanks ElsaandEm for starting it. It's her first year attending. Hoping we get to meet!
  • Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.  
  • Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available
  • Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY
  • Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA
  • Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)
 
Life in Focus
 
  • #1- Read 23 books (35 as of August- 43 as of early october)
  • #7- Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October done)
  • #9- Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun- Strathcona sweater
  • #17- Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. After a smaller clean out earlier in the year, I took a full car load to Savers in October- lots of clothes.
  • #23 Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists. Summer playlist, Old Dominion
 
 
On a Happy Note
  • My friend Megg and I took a longer than usual walk through our local State Park! After almost 8 miles, I came home and pressure washed the house & deck. For the deck, I used a surface cleaner from Ryobi that Dan purchased. You can find the same one on Amazon for $51. Parts of the deck were so badly stained from years of drought when we couldn't wash it. Areas where the wood pile is were especially bad. Exhausting but very satisfying day.
  • My cousin Chris & his wife Kim threw a wonderful party for their son Benjamin's Baptism.
  • I spent a week night at brother and sister-in-law's while they attended a work function. Ran the kids around to their activities, then Millie and I knit for a bit before she and Garret went to bed. Riley & I knit and watch Gilmore Girls before we went to bed. Truly delightful.
  • My financial advisor reached out to me after hearing that my work Open Enrollment is coming up and there was an option for a high deductible health plan that allows for a Health Savings Account, which he had encouraged me to do before (but it wasn't an option). Great customer service! Find a good financial advisor. It is so worth it.
  • Dan and I spent one evening at our nephew Will's soccer game in our home town. They got clobbered but it was fun to see him play. I also knit a bit and listened to my audiobook during part of the second half.
  • Mom, Riley, Millie & I got mani pedis at a local place!
  • Our annual Woodchopping Weekend Party went off without a hitch. Perfect weather. Great food. Dan took the kids on hayrides using a trailer pulled by the backhoe. Kids played disc golf and later flashlight tag, then retreated inside to make TikTok videos while the adults and littles made s'mores outside by the fire and chatted.
  • Mom & I put blue streaks in our hair after our friend Erika, who cuts/colors our hair, encouraged Mom to do this before her Vegas trip last year. Mom said if she was still here to go this year, she'd do it. Here we are! It looks great.
  • Finished up work on our FearLESS Living Fund Website. The bulk of the work and formatting, design was done by my Mom's friend Emma who was really generous to do this for us! So far we've raised  almost $14,000 help the Blind community of Nevada. We are giving away awards for 2 special people to assist with their housing and cell phone costs for the upcoming year! Can't wait to raise more money. You can donate here.
  • Watching Love is Blind and chatting about it with my friend Laura.
  • Great customer service from AirBnB after our host canceled our Rhinebeck AirBnB.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Quote of the Week
 
"Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail."
 
-Bruce Lee
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_264_-_101523_8.20_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 263 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website- click here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, winemakersister and Buxom Cat Knits
 
Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: knitprincess83, Haidi, Rachel, Alexi, Adoreknit, Alicia, Rachel, Agnes, Kristina and Beth
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Bobble Pumpkin
  • Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website)
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in the Ecru Colorway
  • My Ravelry Project Page
 
Bedside Pocket
  • Pattern: None
  • Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co
  • Hook: 6.5 mm (K)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I started this project on 9/4.
  • 75 sts across. Single crochet.
  • First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic
  • Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co
  • Third Section- Kindful Yarn (lighter colorway) with Quince & Co
  • I folded it over, seamed up both sides then put border around all the way over. I used yarn to seam up the middle to separate pocket into 2 so it would be less floppy.
  • Final thoughts- could be a little deeper, but I can always add to it.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube.
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
  • Progress Notes- I didn't like the sc border I originally added (confirmed by blocking) so I ripped it back. I am now working the border in dc like the granny squares. 1 DC in the spot where each square is seamed together, then (2dc, ch2, 2 dc) in each corner and that seems to be working well.
 
Space Daddy Socks
  • Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple.
  • I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1.
  • Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff.
  • Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
 
Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
  • Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
  • Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Body is finished up through what will likely be the sleeve join. I've cast on both sleeves.
 
Drawn Together Cowl
  • Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on
  • Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round)
  • Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.
  • Progress- I've added another inch since last time we talked.
 
Crafty Adventures
My cousin Gayle came up for another visit and led another Resin art class with cousins on my Mom's side of the family. Last time I made a cutting board. This time I made a pumpkin lazy susan- perfect for fall hosting! My cousins made some really beautiful things. I'll share some photos in the show notes for you. Thanks, Gayle, for sharing your talents with us!
 
In My Travels
Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- video coming soon. Safe to say, I had lots of fun with Riley, Liz and Mom. Spoiler alert- stay tuned to the end of the video for some fun bloopers and outtakes. Thanks Riley & Liz for getting some awesome footage of the weekend. I don't think I held the camera once the entire time! It's really fun to share this with them.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Quarter 1 Challenge: Sock it to ’em brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Paper Daisy Creations (Ravelry Link). Runs 10/1-10/31. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Thanks to our Correspondents for checking in with some fun updates.
    • Check out the Ravelry Group to find some of the new Pigskin chat threads- Pigskin Recipe Ideas,Pigskin ‘23 Book Club, Pigskin Participant Podcast, and Pigskin ‘23 Westknits MKAL
    • Congrats to PAKnitWit (Sarah) who already got a blitz (first of the season!). She finished a crochet corner to corner blanket- Ravelry link here.
    • As of Sunday evening 9/24 we have 512 Participants- 236 with Points on the Scoreboard (Average of those with points is 204 Points. Highest: 1532 Lowest: 2. 3 Blitz projects!
    • As of 9/29- Conference Standings LFC (22,460 pts) SFC (22,375 pts)  AFC (18,632 pts)-
    • Top Team= 7 Garter Guards
 
Events
 
Ask Me Anything
  • Anita asked about: Ideas for color schemes for yarn choices- how to use variegated yarns to help blend different color schemes.
  • Shelly asked: "Do you have any tips or tricks on how to calculate the yards used in a project?"
    • Tip: Check Ravelry Project Pages & check the "All Helpful Projects" filter. Here's the Ravelry link for helpful projects for this pattern. THis particular Ravelry project gives the cast on stitches and number of rows and says she 1 50g skein would have been enough "if I did a 40 round leg (ran out of the first skein when I had 10 rounds left on the foot of the second sock)."
 
On a Happy Note
  • Dinner with Gayle, Joanie, Mom and Dad. Gave Joanie gifts from Sedona and Gayle some new socks.
  • Old Dominion- took girls to arcade after then got a drink and something to eat with Jeff & Melissa
  • Brunch. Singing in the car with the girls. Garret’s hockey game
  • Apple picking! Bisque! Cider donuts!
  • Thanks to Patrons who talked about The Vow on HBO. Dan and I are fully hooked.
  • Pumpkin coffee: usually I have a few cups a year and I'm good, but this year its growing on me. They have a great one at the coffee shop at work, Marylous, and I even bought a container from Trader Joe's that I enjoyed some of this week.
  • Cooler temps- they hit us fast this year. We went from hot and muggy to mornings that are 55 and crisp and days in the 60's. I'm loving pulling on wool socks and a wool sweater to stave off the chill.
 
Quote of the Week
 
Since time is the one immaterial object which we cannot influence—neither speed up nor slow down, add to nor diminish—it is an imponderably valuable gift.
–Maya Angelou
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_263_-_92923_5.19_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:29am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 262 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Bella Fio & Mandis Makings
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Wild Air Farm Spinning
  • I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Skein 1: 60" loop. 94 wraps= 5640 inches/156 yards. 92g
  • Skein 2: 59" loop. 95 wraps= 5605 inches/155 yards. 96g
  • Skein 3: 60" loop. 116 wraps= 6960 inches/193 yards. 96 g
  • Total: 284 grams- 504 yards/ 460.9 meters
  • Meters for Stash Dash= 4x 460.9 (for a 3 ply)= 1843.6 meters
 
My total for Stash Dash 2023= 22,908.44
You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.
 
Petrichor Socks
  • Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I used 74 grams of yarn.
 
Shock Star Hat #2
  • Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Pattern: none
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 92 sts. 2x2 rib with the US 5 needles. Switched to US 7 needles after the brim. I was running out of yarn as I got close to the crown so I striped in 3 rounds of neon coral and neon blue with the Shock Star color in between.
  • 52g of yarn used.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Bedside Pocket
  • Pattern: None
  • Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co
  • Hook: 6.5 mm (K)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I started this project on 9/4.
  • 75 sts across. Single crochet.
  • First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic
  • Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co
 
My Little Unicorn Socks
  • Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Past the cuff of the second sock (not the heel as I mentioned last time).
 
Space Daddy Socks
  • Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple.
  • I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1.
  • Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff.
  • Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
 
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
  • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription
  • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: 9 squares for September complete. I'm planning to buy a neutral sock yarn to seam and border them with. Each month's 3x3 square will have a border around it and then be seamed with the other 11 for the year.
  • You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube.
  • This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
 
Strathcona Sweater
  • Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website)
  • Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway
  • Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body)
  • I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Drawn Together Cowl
  • Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on
  • Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round)
  • Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.
  • I flew through the rolled top, ripped out provisional cast on and joined it together on the train which, I must say made me feel like a wizard!
  •  
Brainstorming
 
Patterns from our Pigskin Bundle on Ravelry
 
  • Wear it with Pride Hat by Cori Eichelberger ($10 pattern available on Ravelry. Proceeds go to the Trevor Project. There is a coupon code available if you want/need to pay less). It uses worsted weight self striping with a contrast color and corrugated ribbing to create a nice pattern.
  • Easy Striped Men's Beanie by Lena Mathisson ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry). Worsted weight, striped beanie.
  • Shave Ice Beanie (worsted weight garter stitch hat) by @hookmountainhandmade- $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.⁣⁣
  • Gandy Dancer Mitts (star stitch textured mittens) by @chitchatknits ⁣$4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry (great for variegated or tonals)
  • Lucky Break (garter shawl using minis where you bind off/cast back on to create large eyelets) by @paperdaisycreations $7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
 
From the Armchair
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Playoff Prediction starts 9/6. Who will win the Super Bowl? Submit your guess by 9/20. Find all the details in this thread. Thanks Nicole for the idea!
  • Official Sponsors of the Quarter: There will be a special point-earning challenge issued for this "Quarter"- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan.  We won't reveal all of the challenges ahead of time, but you will find out about them in the days leading up to that month. You can assume, correctly, that you will get more points for using products from that Official Sponsor. 
    • October: Paper Daisy Creations
    • November: Bella Fio
    • December: Mandi's Makings
    • January: Lolodidit
  • Welcome aboard to our 2 Commentators- Mary (Maryklute) and Kristen (Kips206)! THis episode I shared Mary's first report.
    • Pigskin started with a bang! Over 1000 posts before the Sunday football games even started!  One topic of the chatter has been that it has been so chatty, with lots of folks offering the advice to just jump in and not worry about what you missed!
    • People are all over the place in terms of projects. 38 people already had points on the board by midday Sunday! 16 of those people got points for drafting other players!
    • Erica -- Esalaza has already completed two projects that used over 600 yards each!  She’s been making crochet scrap yarn baskets that are super cute! You can find her Ravelry Project Pages here & here (both are Ravelry links)  
    • There’s lots of chatter in the team threads as people complete the Tailgate Talk challenge. 
    • Some folks (like me” are working on finishing up pre-PSP WIPs  There’s still plenty of time to play so no worries if you haven’t even cast on a PSP eligible project yet. To quote imaginedlandscapes, “This knitalong is definitely a marathon and not a sprint.”
 
Events
 
Ask Me Anything
  • Shana asked to hear about "Savers!"
  • Rachel asked for a wildlife update.
  • Anita asked "Ideas for getting ready for the holidays- decorations and gifts. Check out links to some of the things I discussed:
    • Decor
      • Christmas Balls Ornament Set- knitting pattern by Amy Gaines. $4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
      • Triangle Santa Ornament- free knitting pattern available on this blog.
      • Sarah's (of Imagined Landscapes) gnomes
      • I've crocheted triangles and seamed together, put stuffing in between and attached to a twig glued to a ring of wood as the base to make a tree- similar to this Pin. You could do the same thing with knitted fabric.
      • Crochet star ornaments (could also be used as garland). I used cream sparkle yarn and used mod podge stiffener on them.
      • Knitted Christmas garland ideas can be found here.
    • Gifts
      • Heart Garland (crochet) free pattern from Skip to my Lou (great to get ready for Valentine's Day- I also printed small photos & gifted them with mini clothespins from craft store)
      • Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison
      • Moonrise Necklace by Sivia Harding. You can find my Ravelry Project Page here.
      • DK weight socks
      • Baskets- there are tons of patterns for crochet baskets. Useful + cute! You could use them as the container for other gifts too.
      • Cup cozy (great to pair with a gift certificate to your favorite local coffee place)
      • Fingerless mitts. Sizing is easier to guess on, aim for a ribbed pattern if you're really unsure about sizing.
      • Toys!
 
On a Happy Note
  • Labor Day weekend fun. Laura was in visiting from NY. Friday we scored big at the local second hand shops. We had an epic pool day at my parents' on Saturday. Sunday we hit the local dairy for ice cream with the girls then went to Megg's for dinner before seeing a Queen Cover Band at night.
  • Pigskin Kick Off & getting to spend so much time with you.
  • The New York Times Games App: Wordle, Spelling Bee, Connections, Daily Mini are my favorites
  • Decorating for fall!
  • I scored a Luke's Diner tee from the clearance section at Target after Aila suggested it.
  • Stretching & Theragunning on a regular basis now that Liz and I text to check in on each other.
  • Liz took a picture of Millie's creepy baby doll which I later found on my phone and laughed myself silly over. Then Riley found the photo and made it one of my scrolling background/screensaver photos! Hijinx for the win!
 
Quote of the Week
 
Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can't strike them all by ourselves.
–LAURA ESQUIVEL
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_262.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:54am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 261 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors:
 
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Sweet Liberty  Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet Liberty Colorway (July 2023 Yarnable Colorway)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN using my Affiliate Link
  • 272 meters for Stash Dash
 
Summer Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page (started in May, finished in August)
  • In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate's Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here.
  • 272 meters for Stash Dash
 
Liz's Water Bottle Holder
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton (85% Cotton, 15% Polyester)
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Pattern: None
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • From Amazon, I ordered Black Buckles to allow for adjusting the length of the strap.
  • My friend Liz was walking around sightseeing on a recent trip to St. Louis and mentioned she may need a water bottle holder like the one I made for Hattie (Ravelry Project Page).
  • 169.2 meters for Stash Dash
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • Final blanket- 15x22 hexagons with 5 rounds of single crochet for the border.
  • 62x80 inches (twin size- 60x80 inches)
  • Finished blanket- 11,392 meters
 
Stash Dash total on the morning of 8/31/23= 21,064 meters (before counting my last spinning project).
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Wild Air Farm Spinning
  • I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: morning of 8/31- spinning is complete. Plying will be done this afternoon, but I can't measure the finished yarn until it is washed and dried.
 
My Little Unicorn Socks
  • Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one.
  • Progress: Past the heel of the second sock
 
Petrichor Socks
  • Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Past the heel of the second sock
 
Brainstorming
 
  • Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater. Yarn from Sweitzer's Fiber Mill from Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023. My gauge swatch in progress. I started with US 8s, then did a purl bump row and switched to US 9s. Please send your suggestions of relatively simple cardigan pattern for worsted/aran weight yarn.
  • Socks with Pigskin Sponsor Yarn
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Knitting in Passing
 
Liz, Riley and I went to the Marshfield Fair. We spent a good bit of time inside the exhibition building looking at flower arrangements, plants and other crafty items that were given awards. Lots of knitting and crochet projects as well as quilts. While the plants and things were really accessible on tables, it was nice to see that the fiber crafts were behind a low railing so you couldn't touch anything.
 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party '23
    • #DCSPigskinParty23
  • Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
  • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
  • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Teams will be announced on 9/1. Stay tuned to the Ravelry group and look for the "find your teams" thread.
  • Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Virtual Kick Off Weekend
    • Thursday night for Patrons only. Patrons of every level will be invited to join. For the rest of the seaon, only those at the $5/month level and up are invited to our monthly hangouts.
    • Friday September 8 &  Saturday September 9th, events will be open to ALL.
  • Crowd Sourcing:
    • Do you have ideas for challenges or events for this season? Share your ideas in this Ravelry Thread.
    • Does anyone want to be a correspondent and report in before each episode with some key stats or highlights from the games, interesting post or projects?  Email me or DM me on Instagram if you're interested.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Beach walk and dinner w/ Megg & Kris.
  • Breakfast with Mom & two of her Infusion nurses we've known for years.
  • Marshfield Fair with Liz and Riley. We watched part of the demolition derby, played some games and listened to music.
  • Dan and I went Kayaking with Megg, Oisin, Hattie and Will, then got food from the Hingham Lobster Pound and chilled at the Rowan's.
  • We celebrated my grandmother's 89th birthday with a fun brunch at The Friendly Toast
  • I went to see Oppenheimer at the movies with Liz.  Then to see Barbie (for the second time) with Liz and our Mom's who hadn't seen it yet. We met early for a drink, all wearing our pink. They loved the movie.
  • Dinner the night before Eme left for school then Megg and I brought them out to Simon's Rock for their 3rd year. It was a long day- 6 hours of driving + unpacking, organizing, a late lunch and snacks in the car singing all the way home.
  • Riley found "Make Dolly Proud" tees while shopping w/ a friend and I sent her money to get them for us. She's making WWDD bracelets for us too!
  • 5 of the nieces and nephews started school + Gabriella started pre-school so far. FaceTimed with Riley and Gabriella & Zach 
 
Quote of the Week
 
"Most people fail in life not because they aim too high and miss, but because they aim too low and hit."
― Les Brown
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
Direct download: Episode_261_-_83123_11.03_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:10am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 260 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Rainbow Crochet Crop
  • Pattern: 100% improvised.
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I originally finished in June 2022 but it was too short. I ripped out the bottom section and changed from 1 round of each color to 2 rounds each on the bottom trip and added 2 more colors (purple and pink)
  • 552 grams. 819.5 meters for Stash Dash
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • Progress as of 8/14- 58 x70 inches  (14x20 hexis)
  • My goal is for it to be twin blanket size which is 60x80 inches. I would need to add 2 more rows to the length= 28 hexis to make, wash and seam. Plus add the border.
 
My Little Unicorn Socks
  • Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony.
  • Progress: 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff started.
 
Petrichor Socks
  • Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Past the heel of the first sock
 
Sweet Liberty  Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet Liberty Colorway (July 2023 Yarnable Colorway)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: 1st sock done. On the leg of the second sock.
 
Liz's Water Bottle Holder
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton (85% Cotton, 15% Polyester)
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Pattern: None
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • From Amazon, I ordered Black Buckles to allow for adjusting the length of the strap.
  • My friend Liz was walking around sightseeing on a recent trip to St. Louis and mentioned she may need a water bottle holder like the one I made for Hattie (Ravelry Project Page).
 
Wild Air Farm Spinning
  • I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Brainstorming
 
I'd like to crochet a pocket to put between the mattress and the platform part of our bed. I sleep with my heating pad nearly every night and depending on how I move, and especially when I get out of bed, the controller for the heating pad clangs loudly against the wooden drawers and metal drawer pulls of the platform bed. I'd like to hold several strands together and make a large piece of fabric with a pocket in it, to hold the controller and muffle the sound. I need to go through my stash to see what I can find. I will likely crochet it for the sake of time and I think it will also yield a denser fabric that will work well without hurting my hands too much.
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
KAL News
 
Tune in to hear if you won a prize in the Splash Pad Party. I will email all winners within a week of this recording.
 
The 10th Annual Pigskin Party is Coming SOON! The event will run from Thursday September 7, 2023 through Monday February 12, 2024
  • Official hashtag- #DCSPigskinParty23 (feel free to start using it while you prep for the KAL)
  • Registration starts Monday 8/21
  • Our Commissioners will announce Teams on 9/1
  • KAL Starts 9/7
  • Virtual Kick Off- Friday  9/8 & Saturday 9/9
  • Updated rules coming soon
 
Back this year we have
  • Wendy (socalknitgirl) Wendy- Umpire
  • Heather (zoomdogknits) - Sheep Football Conferece
  • Emily- (ElsaandEm)- Llama Football Conference
  • Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Football Conference
  • Broadcast- yours truly
 
Events
 
Life in Focus
 
23 for 2023 list (a few updates)
  • Read 23 books (37 as of August)
  • Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos  (ordered 8/9 from Walgreens- 8x10 for $12!)
  • Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August done)
  • Knit myself a pair of mittens
 
On a Happy Note
  • Dan and I went to a local brewery on a Sunday afternoon and came home to a black bear in our yard!
  • Barbie Movie- purchased a new pink top and heels to wear with floral pants I bought. Stephanie deemed me Resort Barbie!
  • Gabriella's 3rd birthday. Dan and I had so much fun playing with playdough with them in the backyard.
  • Mom's friends at List Perfectly treated us to box seats at a Red Sox at Fenway. The game itself was terrible- they lost 13-1 and put in the short stop as pitcher in the top of the 9th, but we had so much fun we didn't care. The box was decked out with every kind of delicious beverage you could want, pizza, lobster rolls, hot dogs, pretzels and more... and they even have a ice cream sundae cart come around!
  • 2 nights of Tock and ice cream at the pool. The first night Liz and I taught Stephanie and Kris how to play. The second night, Mom, Riley and I played.
  • Emelie's birthday party
  • Kayaking for the first time this season; it was cut a bit short by a storm that was threatening. Not sure if would have ever actually come where we were, but it wasn't worth the risk.
 
Quote of the Week
 
No matter how mundane some action might appear, keep at it long enough and it becomes a contemplative, even meditative act.
–HARUKI MURAKAMI
 
------
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_260_-_81523_11.06_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:11am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 259 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Enchanted Etchings
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Shock Star Hat
  • Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Pattern: none
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: cream base with small bits of neons + black.
  • 92 sts
  • 130.5 meters for Stash Dash
 
Watermelon cozies
  • Pattern: Ball Band (free pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts) & Ball Band with a Twist ($2 crochet pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts)  by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarns: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton in Colorway: Cranberry. Loops & Threads Everyday Cotton in Jade. Leftover scrubby yarn for lighter green
  • Hooks: 3.75 mm (F) & 4.25 mm (G)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspiration- Ali (starryeyesali) posted a watermelon bowl she made with leftover yarn on Instagram
  • Small Jar cozy (16 oz wide mouth Mason jars). All sc (like the original ball band pattern). 7 rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green, 9 rounds of red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
  • Large Jar cozy (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)- following Ball Band with a Twist instructions. 6 rounds of bottom section in Jade. 2 rounds of light green and the rest in Red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
  • Large Jar cozy #2  (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)-  rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green,  rest was done in red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
  • 156.4 meters for Stash Dash
 
Woolens and Nosh Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 20g mini in dark purple; used for cuff and heel.
  • 285.8 meters for Stash Dash
 
Zebra Stripes Socks
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 273.6 meters for Stash Dash
 
Children of Time Spinning
  • Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time colorway
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 1 ply of Wool of the Andes in 2 colors of blue + 2 plies of Into the Whirled
    • Skein 1= 94g. 116.91 yards or 106.9 meters
    • Skein 2= 82g  120.3 yards, 110 meters
    • Total meters of yarn 216.9
  • For Stash Dash= 4 x 216.9 = 867.6 meters
 
Purple Spring Spin
  • Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 2 skeins of finished yarn with Fluffypuf & Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works
    • Skein 1- 66g. 80.97 yards or 74.04 meters
    • Skein 2= 66g. 79.44 yards or 72.64 meters
    • Total Meters= 146.68
  • I still had singles left of the Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks fiber, so I plied that with some mystery purple singles.
    • Skein 3: 28g. 54.44 yards or 49.78 meters
    • Meters for Stash Dash- 49.78 x 4= 199.12
  • Total Meters for Stash Dash for all 3 skeins = 795.84
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • As of 7/25/23- 51' wide by 58" long. (13 x 17 hexis)
 
Silver Spoon Socks
  • Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: on the foot of the first sock.
 
3 Christmas Stockings
 
 
Rainbow Crochet Crop
  • Pattern: 100% improvised.
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Wide, oversized crochet top that I completely improvised on the go. Thought I'd do all granny squares but didn't think I'd have enough yarn.
  • Originally finished in June 2022, but it was too short and I only wore it once.
  • Had hdc rows in rainbow colors at the bottom. Ripped all of that back and instead of doing 1 round of each color, I did 2. Extending beyond blue to include purple and pink.
 
My Little Unicorn Socks
  • Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one.
 
From the Armchair
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Some Years Later
  • Mom sent 2 socks to be repaired. Her Knit Picks Felici Zen Socks had a hole in the foot. It was easy to repair with a bit of yarn. I washed them and they're ready to give back. I only finished these in May 2022, right before Mother's Day so these haven't held up very well. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • I also did a blanket repair on a knitted blanket a friend's mother asked me to fix. I was assuming it was crochet, so the fact that it was knitted was a surprise. The section that was torn was part of a very long strip of knitting that was knit on the bias, so it was a little tricky but it was in garter stitch and I did a good job of pulling the stitches back up. Its not 100% invisible, but I'm happy with it. I have it washed and ready to return.
 
Crafty Adventures
 
Resin adventures with Gayle & Meagan for their Bucket List with a Twist. They made us aprons to wear while working that Bucket List with a Twist!
 
KAL News
 
Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023
 
Events
 
 
Life in Focus
  • After 3+ years I got Covid.
  • Mom's July MRI & CT Scans show that the cancer has not grown/changed! Great news!
 
Ask Me Anything
Tune in to hear my answers to these questions:
  • AnnahB wants to know how many UFOs I have. (12 somewhat active + hibernations)
  • MaysMomNH- How your Mom is doing.
  • Elisa.Knits- How you pick yarn for sweaters and cardis please.
  • Nali_Knits- what motivates you to keep knitting/podcasting after so many years?
  • KGZKnits- Can we watch instead?
  • Red-Christina- trying to knit men's cardigan for my grandpa- any suggestions?
    • Classic Cardigan by Tin Can Knits. $8 knitting pattern on Ravelry or Tin Can Knits website.
    • Slade by Michelle Wang (for Brooklyn Tweed). $10 pattern available on Ravelry; $9 on Brooklyn Tweed Website.
    • Reading Cardigan by Jared Flood. $16 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & for $15 on Brooklyn Tweed website)
  • DogMomKnits- Fall Knitting Plans- Pigskin Party (if there will be one) info?
    • There will be a Pigskin Party. I'll be planning it very soon!
 
On a Happy Note
  • After a day of resin crafts and pool time, Mom, Dad, Gayle, Meagan, Liz and I headed out for ice cream and then back for 2 round Tock match (Meagan & I won one, Gayle & Liz won one).
  • I went to Minute Clinic to confirm I had Covid, but mostly to see if I also had strep throat, and was treated by my childhood bestie, Maribeth!
  • Grateful for my own craft room with a comfy chair in a cool part of the house. Perfect for isolating and making sure Dan didn't get sick. I did go outside a bit on the weekend days. Dan brought up my wheel. I still spent a lot of time lying down between projects but it was nice to get out. I missed our nephew's 16th birthday pool party, though, so that was a bummer.
  • Jeff was able to get an extra ticket for me to join he and Riley to see Lainey Wilson at the Mohegan Sun casino on Friday night! We had dinner, loved the show, got a cool Watermelon Moonshine Stanley Tumbler, and then I slept over at their house. Hung out with Riley & Millie in the morning, singing Hamilton as Riley made us homemade waffles.
 
Quote of the Week
 
The great thing in this world is not so much where we stand as in what direction we are moving.
–OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES, SR
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_259_-_73123_12.47_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:59pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 258 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Summer Rainbow Socks
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 253.8 meters for Stash Dash
Hattie’s Water Bottle Holder
 
  • Pattern: Freedom Water Bottle Holder by Wendy Serrao (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on Wendy’s website)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the project: Hattie (age 5) saw a water bottle holder at the local refill store and asked for one. Her Mom, Megg texted asking if I could please make one for Hattie. The pattern is designed for an adult/larger sized water bottle so I knew I wanted to make mine smaller than called for in the pattern. I started in blue and increased up to about 38 sts around. Instead of double crochets, I worked half double crochets instead. 6 rows hdc, followed by 3 rows of (ch1, dc around) in purple. Then I repeated that in pink.
  • I had planned to do the strap half pink and half purple, but when I had Hattie try it on, it was too long (even though I had been accounting for a serious amount of stretch). She said it needed attention regardless because there wasn’t any blue in the strap. Noted. Thankfully, I’d anticipated my picky client and brought all three colors with me to the pool. I ripped back, adjusted the length, added some blue to the second half of the strap and voila!
  • 80.2 meters for Stash Dash
Seeing Spirals Washcloth
 
  • Pattern: Seeing Spirals Washcloth by Lindsey Dale (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry or on Lindsey’s website)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 14 meters for Stash Dash
Musselburgh Hat
 
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda’s website)
  • Yarn: YarnBaker Fingering in the Blazer Colorway & On The Round Nimble Sock (unsure of colorway)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • About the project: Half light blue, half darker denim blue, about 8.5 inches tall. You can still fold up the brim if you really want to.
  • 384.7 meters for Stash Dash
Chevron Scrap Blanket
 
  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website.
    • This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
  • For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on
  • Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
  • I used mattress stitch to seam  all 6 strips together. I used white to do a dc border round, then a hdc round. From there I did a crochet pom pom border using 2 puff stitches that you fold over to make bobbles. I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket last summer (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
  • 3,024 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
 
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website &
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I’ve been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60×80 inches. 17×22 hexis- 374.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • Progress: I started seaming!
3 Christmas Stockings
 
LFA Helical Socks
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway + 50g skein in a mystery colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorways: both have a pink base. The mystery skein leans more to blues and purples. Portal has some brighter sky blues and bits of green and maroon. Together they just look like one beautiful colorway. 
  • Progress: a few inches from the heel on the first sock
Zebra Stripes Socks
 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway- approximately 3 round stripes of black and cream
  • Progress: Finished first sock. Turned the heel on the second sock.
Woolens and Nosh Socks
 
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 1 stripe a day. So manageable– then I got to Vegas and realized I was using US 2 instead of US 1.5. Thought the gauge looked strange. Ripped back to cuff. I got off track after that.
  • 20g mini in dark purple; used for cuff and will use for the heel.
  • Progress: I finished the first sock (did not use the mini for the toe). Cast on the second sock, using the mini for the cuff.

From the Armchair

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 

In My Travels

  • While in Phoenix with Mom, she, Merry & I took a day trip tour to Sedona through Detours. Nicki was our guide. First stop: Montezuma Castle. where the Sinagua people built dwellings into the side of the rock face. It was a 20 room, multi-story structure access via sets of wooden ladders.
  • Bell Rock trailhead/ vista. 
  • Chapel of the Holy Cross – beautiful setting with nearly 360 views of the red rocks all around, beautiful face of windows on one end with a large statue of Jesus over the altar.
  • Uptown Sedona. Lunch. Coffee. Shopping. Ice cream!

KAL News

Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023
 

Events

Life in Focus

  • I shared in the last episode that my mother-in-law, Marilyn, passed away shortly before I left for Phoenix. When I returned home, we finished the of the plans and held her funeral mass that Thursday morning. Dan’s younger sister Kathy (and her husband Tony) came in from Florida and stayed with us as did my friend Laura (from NYC). We all met up for dinner on Wednesday night with Dan & Matt’s aunt who came in from Maine and 2 of her daughters and their families.
  • The services and lunch afterwards were beautiful. Readings and music were all specially chosen and read/performed by people she loved. Its was a beautiful send off. We had a small gathering after at my friend Megg’s house. She, Laura and I walked down to the beach just before sunset.

On a Happy Note

  • While Laura was in town we went for a late lunch with Kris and Megg at the Salt Society and then Laura, Kris and I got ice cream at Hornstra and Laura and I went on to see No Hard Feelings at the movies.
  • Saturday July 8th we had a big pool party for our friend Trish’s birthday. Fun day with all the kiddos before they head off to their various camps.
  • On Sunday, Dan’s friends came for a visit and brought us a delicious homemade strawberry rhubarb pie.
  • Monday night we did a double date night with Megg and Tom to The Snug, an Irish pub, for live music to catch up before they head to Ireland for summer visits.
  • Thursday I celebrated 20 years at Mass General with the annual Ether Day Dinner (normally held in October but ours was postponed) where they celebrate staff with milestones in 5 year increments from 20-60 years of service. Cocktail hour with live music followed by a delicious dinner for over 600 people! It was made especially fun because my dear friend Waveney and her husband Atticus were there- and Dan ran into a friend from work whose wife was also celebrating 20 years.
    • On October 16, 1846, the first successful public demonstration of the use of ether for surgical anesthesia was performed, making pain-free surgery possible.
  • Friday pool night. Meagan and Gayle, up from NH, brought resin/acrylic crafts and the fam decorated cutting boards and trays. I missed it but Dan and the others who learned are going to teach me.

Quote of the Week

We can take a wonderful vacation in spirit, even though we are obliged to stay at home, if we will only drop our burdens from our minds for a while. –Laura Ingalls Wilder Thank you for tuning in!Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_258_-_71523_10.13_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:16am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 257 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Bella FioWoolen Women
Thanks to Mom for joining me for part of this episode!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Cushion Bags

  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up & Other Dish Cloth Cotton
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • I made 2 cushion covers for Mom because the bags for her inflatable seat cushions were too small to easily fit back into.
  • Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 1: green and aqua
  • Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 2 : black and aqua
  • 155 meters for Stash Dash (in the 2 projects)

2021 Scrappy Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
  • In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here.
  • 228 meters for Stash Dash

In a Fog Mittens

  • Pattern: In a Fog by Allison O’Mahony ($5.50 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the designer’s website)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5mm) & US 6 (4.0mm)
  • Yarn: MC: Spun Right Round (multi color) CC: Fibre Seed Costa Laurel worsted yarn in Colorway CL014 (gray)
  • Size: Medium (3 sizes available)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 161 meters for Stash Dash

Curiouser & Curiouser Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • These count for the #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal
  • Will weigh these socks when I get home from Phoenix

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Summer Rainbow Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Almost to the heel of sock #2

Zebra Stripes Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway:
  • Progress: Finished most of the first sock

Chevron Scrap Blanket

  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website.
    • This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
  • For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
  • Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
  • Progress: 5 strips finished. 1 more started. Once finished, I need to seam them together & debating a border.

From the Armchair

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Some Years Later

Cozy Classic Raglan

  • Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs
  • Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body
  • Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK in color 547 Sunny
  • Knitting Size Medium. 
  • Finished in May 2020
  • I never loved the way it fits me. Riley recently wore it during sleepover, so I let her take it home. She sent me a fit check wearing it with white jean cut offs, a slick hairdo and some poppin lips! Looking gorgeous. Makes me even happier than the meters that helped me kick Jasmin’s butt in 2020!

In My Travels

KAL News

Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023

Events

  • Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord
    • My total as of this episode: 1,619 meters (plus socks I haven’t been able to weigh)
    • You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.
  • Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
    • Runs May 29- September 4, 2023
    • #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash
  • Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast
    • May 26-September 4, 2023
    • Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed
  • The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel.
  • Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group
    • 5/26- 8/31/2023
  • Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds
  • Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
  • Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus

  • It’s been a tough couple weeks with Mom having a bad reaction to her normal infusion, then Dan’s mother, Marilyn passed away on June 25th.

On a Happy Note

  • Our nephew Oisin turned 15 and we enjoyed his taco truck birthday party.
  • That same weekend, we had 3 kiddos in a dance recital, and our niece Aila was in Beauty & the Beast as Maurice that night. Mom, Riley, Millie and I grabbed dinner (and for the adults a cold beer) in between!
  • We enjoyed Father’s Day with my dad and gave him custom corn hole boards and bags!
  • Mom, Riley and I got VIP tickets to Kane Brown at Fenway Park. We wore matching tees Mom bought for us.
  • Not one but 2 bucks in our driveway at the same time. Stayed long enough for me to bring Dan back.
  • Fireflies are out! I got to show our friend Liz when she came for dinner.
  • I got to go into the ORs for the first time, after working at MGH for nearly 21 years.

Quote of the Week

One’s life begins on so many occasions, constructing itself out of accident derived from coincidence compounded by character.–DONALD HALL


——

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episdoe_257_-_62923_4.55_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 256 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Quote of the Week
  • Stay tuned for a special interview at the end of the episode

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Ninja Turtle Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.

Solstice Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Summer Rainbow Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I finished the first sock in Nashville & cast on the cuff of the second

Curiouser & Curiouser Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I purchased this as a Micro Sock set; 50g of main color + a 20g mini. I also had another LFA mini that I liked with it, so I have green and purple to choose from.
  • Progress: I finished the first sock at Lucky Bastard Bar in Nashville and kitchenered the toe listening to live music. I cast on the second sock.

In a Fog Mittens

  • Pattern: In a Fog by Allison O’Mahony ($5.50 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the designer’s website)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5mm) & US 6 (4.0mm)
  • Yarn: MC: Spun Right Round (multi color) CC: Fibre Seed Costa Laurel worsted yarn in Colorway CL014 (gray)
  • Size: Medium (3 sizes available)
  • Progress: finished 1st mitten

Crafty Adventures

Emelyn came over after work to do a crafty project together. They decided they wanted to make a snail backpack for which we could find no ready-made tutorials online. We found instructions for round bag that we’ll modify. We went to JoAnn to purchase supplies, grabbed dinner and headed home. Eme cut the two circles (using a large bowl as a guide) and sewed swirl pattern on each piece before we ran out of time. I’m looking forward to picking it back up soon.

Knitting in Passing

My mom’s childhood friend Rosie came to Nashville with us. She was asking about my circular knitting on magic loop and we got talking about how her mother knit and taught her to knit as a kid. Her mother would make sweaters, hats, scarves and mittens.

In My Travels

My brother Jeff, my parents and I went to Nashville for CMA Fest 2023. Tune in to hear all about our trip and the incredible musicians & bands we saw.

KAL News

Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023

Events

Quote of the Week

“Would you rather love the more, and suffer the more; or love the less, and suffer the less? That is, I think, finally, the only real question.”– Julian Barnes

This episode we had a special conversation originally recorded by my friend Beverly Baptiste who co-hosts the weekly sewing podcast-  Punk Frockers with her friend Jenny Hassler for their series on sewing adjacent hobbies. My friends Nicki, Karen, Ryan and Maggie and I share about the kinds of fiber crafts we enjoy, other creative outlets, whether creative people attract creative partners and whether our partners know how much we spend on craft supplies.  You can find the Punk Frockers podcast on their website. You can also find this conversation on Episode 118 Knitting #PFSewingAdjacent.


——Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_256_-_61523_7.32_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:36pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 255 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Carmen Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Carmen Sock Weight Yarn (80/20 Merino/Nylon) in Colorway 1402
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • About the yarn: Half of the skein is navy blue the other half is a neon rainbow. At my gauge it is microstriping!
 
Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Yarn: various fingering scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am using Cate's Clasp Weft Join when joining a new yarn. Using this method, I only have 4 ends to weave in even though I am changing yarns often.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video.
  • Progress Update: 225 hexagons done on 5/22/23 (74 unwashed + 151 washed)- goal is 374
 
Chevron Scrap Blanket
  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria's Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria's Blue Crayon Website.
    • This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
  • For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
  • Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
  • Progress: 3 strips finished. 1 more started.
 
Summer Scrappy Helical Socks #2
  • Yarn: various fingering scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am using Cate's Clasp Weft Join when joining a new yarn. Using this method, I only have 4 ends to weave in even though I am changing yarns often.
  • Progress: Sock 1 is close to the heel. Sock 2 has a cuff.
 
Ninja Turtle Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • Progress: almost to the toe on the second sock
 
Summer Rainbow Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Progress: 1st cuff down + a few inches into the leg
 
Curiouser & Curiouser Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn:  Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • I purchased this as a Micro Sock set; 50g of main color + a 20g mini. I also had another LFA mini that I liked with it, so I have green and purple to choose from.
  • Progress: ready to start heel on first sock
 
Purple Spring Spin
  • Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Fluffypuf braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
  • I purchased 4 oz of 100% Rambouillet from Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks at CT Sheep & Wool.
  • I will plan to do a 3 ply
  • Update this episode: I broke my new driveband! Will replace w/ kitchen cotton yarn for now
 
Brainstorming
  • With the announcement of the Legacy Fiber Artz MAL, I decided to wind up all of my LFA minis on the sparkle base to knit some scrappy, helical, clasp-weft sparkle socks!
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
In My Travels
 
KAL News
 
Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023
 
Events
  • Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord
    • Jasmin (aka cuteknitter) & I will be doing our annual, mostly-friendly challenge.
    • 2 pairs of socks so far= 548 meters
    • You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.
  • Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
    • Runs May 29- September 4, 2023
    • #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash
  • Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast
    • May 26-September 4, 2023
    • Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed
  • The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel.
  • Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group
    • 5/26- 8/31/2023
  • Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds
  • Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
  • Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
Check out my latest shawl design- Mas Vida!
Find all of the details on my website.
Mas Vida is available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts for $7. Use code mas for 30% off on Ravelry through 6/2.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Mother's Day celebrations seeing Millie in Matilda followed by dinner at a local brewery
  • Flowers from Chris & Margarita
  • Vikki & Katy visited from Las Vegas. I picked them up at the airport and then we met Mom, Dad, Trish and Liz for dinner.
  • Dan & I celebrated our 19th Anniversary at a local brewery after work.
  • Thank you Steph for the beautiful AdoreKnit Splash Pad '23 Exclusive Bag & Stitch Markers
  • Getting video messages from Riley about her crochet project! Riley joined one of our Patrons-only Zooms during the Splash Pad Party and that was a lot of fun!
  • Memorial Day weekend visits to my parents'.  Mom shared a cool tip on how to clean jewelry which I'll share on Instagram. Sunday after the pool, the 4 of us headed to Matt & Kris' to celebrate Matt's birthday and Carly's birthday. I gifted her the Carmen socks I'd just finished! She's a skiier so I'm hoping she enjoys them.
  • On Monday, a bunch of my cousins and their kids came! We got a fun photo of 9 kiddos together on my parents' swing! The kids swam and ate ice cream. I played bocce with Garret.
 
Quote of the Week
 
In the beginning I was so young and such a stranger to myself I hardly existed. I had to go out into the world and see it and hear it and react to it, before I knew at all who I was, what I was, what I wanted to be.
 
–Mary Oliver
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_255_-_53123_8.44_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:39pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 254 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Some Years Later
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thanks to Riley, our special guest co-host this week!
 
Off the Needles
 
Winter Mint Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Winter Mint Colorway (Yarnable December 2022)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue
 
Riley recently finished a knitted tote from the Rheinpack Tote pattern available on Ravelry.
 
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • Bought 2 grab bags of minis from Legacy Fiber Artz and some yarn from Knit Picks with a gift card I got for my birthday. Minis from CT Sheep & Wool and Maryland S&W
  • Thanks Nicole (ndoyle) for the care package for Riley that included a Crumbl cookie cutter and minis for Riley to make more hexis out of. You can check out our Crumbl taste test in this video.
 
Purple Spring Spin
  • Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Fluffypuf braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
  • I purchased 4 oz of 100% Rambouillet from Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks at CT Sheep & Wool. I split it in two. 2 oz already spun. I will plan to do a 3 ply
 
Shock Star Hat
  • Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Pattern: none
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: cream base with small bits of neons + black.
  • 92 sts. 2x2 rib with the US 5 needles. Switched to US 7 needles after the brim. Planning on a slouchy hat
 
Silver Spoon Socks
  • Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
  • Progress: Almost done with the first leg.
 
Scrappy Helical Socks
  • Yarn: various fingering scraps
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I tried to weave in ends as I went and I wasn't loving the look of it. My friend Nicki suggested Cate's Clasp Weft Join after starting new yarn. I thought of it but talked myself out of it, thinking it wouldn't work well. It totally does! Let me know if you'd like to see a tutorial on it.
  • Progress: just finished heel on second sock
 
Ninja Turtle Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green
  • Progress: Turned second heel
 
Riley is knitting on her Riley Rose Cowl (pattern by me, named for her) out of Goosey Fibers Yarn. You can get this pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts. She is also practicing working flat in double crochet using Knit Picks Brava yarn.
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Riley is re-reading The Summer I turned Pretty by Jenny Han. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty adventures
  • This weekend, I had my first go at needle felting. It was a lot of fun!
 
Some Years Later
 
In My Travels
 
KAL News
 
  • Splash Pad Party Registration opened May 1st. Sign up using this Google Form.
  • To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here.
  • The 8th Annual Splash Pad Party opens on Friday May 26th and runs through July 31st.
  • Virtual Events to open the Splash Pad will be Friday 5/26 & Saturday 5/27. Check out this link for details. All times are in Eastern Time.
  • Check out the Sponsor list here.
 
 
Events
 
 
Contest, News & Notes
 
My new shawl pattern, the Mas Vida Shawl is coming soon!!
 
  • Mas Vida is a simple sideways shawl that is written for 2 skeins of fingering weight yarn but can be knit up in any yarn you choose. There isn’t a single purl in the project, and the eyelets are easy to work. Many of you will only need to reference the pattern occasionally once you understand the basic increases and increase repeats.
  • I designed this to take along on a European vacation. I wanted something with a bit of interest, but that wouldn’t be too large, wouldn’t require too much brain space and that wouldn’t work up too quickly (as smaller travel projects tend to do). -
  • Note - This pattern has already been Tech Edited & Test Knit, so it should be smooth sailing!
 
On a Happy Note
  • I went to see Irish comedian Tommy Tiernan with Megg, Tom & Matt.
  • Seeing my 11 year old niece perform in Matilda.
  • Zach’s 1st birthday dinner.
  • Riley got 2 awards in her last dance competition of the season!
 
Quote of the Week
Do not look back. And do not dream about the future, either...Your duty, your reward—your destiny—are here and now.
 
–DAG HAMMARSKJOLD
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_254_-_51423_9.08_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 253 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Zach’s 1st Birthday Teddy
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Dove Heather, Silver, Mint, Tranquil and Marina colorways
  • Hooks: D (3.25 mm) for stuffed parts & H (5.0mm) for Granny Square
  • Pattern: Theo the Teddy Bear from book: Snuggle & Play Crochet: 40 Amigurumi Patterns for Lovey Security Blankets and Matching Toys by Carolina Guzman Benitez
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Winter Mint Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Winter Mint Colorway (Yarnable December 2022)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue
  • Progress: Turned heel of first sock
 
Zebra Stripes Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway:
  • Progress: Turned heel of first sock and knit several inches on the foot during our trip to Nantucket
 
Musselburgh Hat
 
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
  • Yarn: YarnBaker Fingering in the Blazer Colorway & On The Round Nimble Sock (unsure of colorway)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • Progress check- More than half way done. Added in second color
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
  • 196 hexagons done by 4/25/23 (151 washed/ 45 unblocked) More than half way there if my goal is 374
 
Children of Time Spinning
  • Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time colorway
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Fiber: purple, plum, tans, browns and blues
  • Progress: Finishing spinning all 4 oz
 
Benjamin's Christmas Stocking
 
From the Armchair
 
  1. The Villa by Rachel Hawkins. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  4. "You Just Need to Lose Weight" and 19 Other Myths About Fat People by Aubrey Gordon. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
I'm also excited for new book from Virginia Sole-Smith- Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
In My Travels
 
Check out our 2 part Nantucket Vlog series on my YouTube Channel: Part 1 & Part 2
 
 
KAL News
  • Splash Pad Party Registration Opens May 1st. Sign up using this Google Form.
  • To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here.
  • The 8th Annual Splash Pad Party opens on Friday May 26th and runs through July 31st.
 
Events
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • Thanks to test knitters testing my Mas Vidas shawl
 
Life in Focus
 
I checked off two things on my 23 in 2023 list
  • #1- Read 23 Books- now at 24!
  • #23- Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Walking at the beach with Megg & Maria before Oisin's boat race. His team set the course record for the day!
  • Laura came in from NY that evening and joined us for Tom's birthday dinner.
  • On Sunday, I drove down to Orleans where Laura was house sitting to watch the Love is Blind "live" Re-union debacle on Netflix.
  • Training at the gym & the energy that comes with it!
  • Going w/ Riley and Mom to get our nails done before Nantucket. Riley took us for boba smoothies afterwards. We had a great time.
  • Riley was showing a friend a nail polish in TJ Maxx that looks like mine and it was the exact color of OPI I always get- Don't Bossa Nova Me Around- and she bought it for me. So sweet!
  • Nantucket! 4 day weekend was just the break I needed from work. The candy and cookie taste tests were a fun way to do something memorable without having to spend a ton of time or money.
  • Getting Mom to watch on Love is Blind
  • Watching The Sinner on Netflix with Dan.
  • Working on a slide show for my friend's son's Bar Mitzvah.
 
Quote of the Week
Writer and psychoanalyst Marion Milner on the work required to be happy:
 
"Let no one think it is an easy way because it is concerned with moments of happiness rather than with stern duty or high moral endeavour. For what is really easy, as I found, is to blind one’s eyes to what one really likes, to drift into accepting one's wants ready-made from other people, and to evade the continual day to day sifting of values."
 
Source: A Life of One's Own
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_253_-_42823_4.52_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 252 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

 

This week’s segments included:

  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Winter Mint Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Winter Mint Colorway (Yarnable December 2022)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue
  • Progress: Leg of the 1st sock is complete

Solstice Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress- Finished 1st sock. Cast on second.

Ninja Turtle Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green
  • Progress: Sock #1 done. 2nd one on the leg

Carmen Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Carmen Sock Weight Yarn (80/20 Merino/Nylon) in Colorway 1402
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: Half of the skein is navy blue the other half is a neon rainbow. At my gauge it is microstriping.

Purple Spring Spin

  • Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk.
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I’m spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
  • Ordered 4 ounces of a purple fiber that I plan to split in half and ply with this for a 3-ply.

Children of Time Spinning

  • Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time colorway
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I’m spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Fiber: purple, plum, tans, browns and blues

Chevron Scrap Blanket

  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website.
    • This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
  • For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
  • Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
  • Progress: 2 strips finished. 2 more started. I am going to run out of Knit Picks Brava White yarn.

I did finish a top down elongated triangular shawl that was a design idea. I think I like it, but waiting for it to come off the blocking mats for final decisions.

Brainstorming

I’m debating what to make for my nephew Zachary’s 1st birthday in May. This is a strong contender:
Baby Snuggler by Cheryl of Crochet 365 Knit Too. Crochet pattern available for $4.49 on Ravelry or free on the Crochet 365 Knit Too Website or ad-free from Cheryl’s website here.


From the Armchair

I talked in the last episode about  Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.Thanks to Sarah, PAKnitWit who mentioned that some of the book tour might have been recorded. I found this video on YouTube.

  1. Foster by Claire Keegan. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.
  2. This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.
  3. Normal People by Sally Rooney. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Some Years Later

Riley wore her Everyday Cables Cardigan to Easter this year. I knit this very bulky sweater for her for Christmas 2021 (From Dec 10-24th!). You can check out my Ravelry Project Page here.

Knitting in Passing

  • Eme sleepover We played Cube Escape Collection. We played The Mill which is like an electronic version of an escape game where you have to go around the room to find clues and figure out how to solve a puzzle. Grandmother knit her own hair (which we had to spin on a castle style spinning wheel) to make a pot holder so we could get hot duck out of oven.
  • We messaged with Z, Emelyn’s former roommate, and sending videos to try to help with their ssk issues.
  • I had so much fun teaching Eme to crochet. I bought them some hooks and yarn to keep going.

KAL News

  • Splash Pad Party starts on Friday May 26th.
  • Save the date for our virtual kick off events on Friday & Saturday May 26-27th. More details to come.
  • Call for Sponsors went out. You can find information on my website.

Events

Life in Focus

  • While it’s been difficult, I’m really enjoying taking small group workout classes at a new to me gym nearby.

On a Happy Note

  • Hiking with Megg and alone.
  • Seeing The Secret Garden musical at The Company Theatre.
  • Eme & Kris’ birthday dinner.
  • Watching Love is Blind on Netflix and talking about it with Laura. It’s such a fun way to connect w/ a friend.
  • Easter at my parents’ house.
  • Warmer, longer days.
  • My houseplants. I’ve recently divided up some more of my plants. Getting ready to fertilize them. They are bringing me so much joy, and having kept them alive (many for well over a year now), I’m getting confidence to try a few new plants. Maybe soon!

Quote of the Week

The events of your past are fixed. The meaning of your past is not. The influence of every experience in your life is determined by the meaning you assign to it. Assign a more useful meaning to your past and it becomes easier to take a more useful action in the present.”

-James Clear-

—-Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_252_-_41423_7.28_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:32pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 251 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.
Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Aggie, Alexis, Alicia, Beth, Erica, Haidi, Kristina, Rachel, Rachel and Steph
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl
  • Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Own Two Feet Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Musselburgh Hat
 
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
  • Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash in a denim blue (can't find the ballband)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • Plan: Switch colors half way through. I have a lighter blue skein from On the Round that I purchased at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland, MA that I want to use to make it a reversible hat.
 
Ninja Turtle Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green.
  • Progress: Sock #1 is most of the way through the foot.
 
Carmen Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Carmen Sock Weight Yarn (80/20 Merino/Nylon) in Colorway 1402
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
 
Cloudy + Rainbows Spinning Project
  • Fiber: 4oz braid of BFL from Frabjous Fibers in the Rainy Day Rainbows Colorway
  • Description- long stretches of light gray punctuated with shorter blips of rainbow colors
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • I bought a new poly drive band for my Kromski Minstrel from Spinning Bunny on Etsy that I heard about on a Kromski Spinning Wheel Owners message board on Ravelry.
  • Finished spinning all 4 ounces. I would like to ply with other gray fiber.
 
Wild Air Farm Fiber
  • Fiber: 3.9 ounces of Shetland & Pygora from Wild Air Farm. Tag indicates "Melody & Cadence" which I presume are the animal names. 1 bump in green, 1 bump in blue
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
  • I finally got around to hanging up items to create a collage wall in the Down Cellar Studio.
 
Knitting in Passing
  • While knitting on my Musselburgh Hat at Oisin's show, the women behind me asked me at Intermission what I was making because she's a "big knitter." I explained about the hat and what a sensation the pattern was. It was nice chatting with her.
 
KAL News
 
  • The Annual Splash Pad Party is ON for this summer. Save the dates for virtual kick off events Friday & Saturday May 26-27th
  • Call for sponsors going out soon. Sign up for my email newsletter & check the box for getting Sponsor emails if you want to be the first to know about available sponsor spots. 
  • Participant sign-ups will start in May.
 
Events
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • I will have a new shawl pattern ready for test knitters soon. I think I will run the test on Ravelry because it's what I know and is easiest and life is still a little challenging for me right now, so thank you for giving me a little grace.
 
Life in Focus
 
Tune in for my update on 23 in 2023.
  • Any tips for brands/types of fake eyelashes to try?
  • Skiing didn't happen this year. Sigh.
  • I'm making good progress of reading, going to musicals, sending cards and going to the movies!
 
I celebrated the 11 year anniversary of the Podcast with a quick look back at Episode 1!
 
 
On a Happy Note
  • Follow-up after Mom's recent scans show things look good. She & Dad headed off to Florida for vacation.
  • Dan & I helped Dad replace their broken TV and we had a nice dinner together.
  • My cousin Susan's annual St. Patrick's Day Party with birthday cake for my cousin Christopher whose baby I met for the first time that day and a Bailey's toast to my dear Aunt Florence.
  • Picked up Riley and Millie to go meet Mom & Trish for mani pedis before Mom & Dad headed to Florida on Vacation.
  • Seeing Oisin play Shrek in Shrek Jr. at his Middle School.
  • Girls Game Night at my cousin Joanie's house
  • Going back to Zumba before my old gym closes.
  • I had my annual mammogram and thought there was cause for concern but ultrasound proved everything is normal! PSA: Get those boobies checked!! It's important.
 
Quote of the Week
 
I realized I was as happy as I’d ever been in my life. It was the happiness of the right-before, when everything is potential and no branch on the tree of possibility has yet been closed off by action.
–Dawn Drzal
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_251_-_33023_6.11_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:30am EDT

 
 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 250 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbin
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: The Yarn Sellar and be sure to check out their annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, 10-3 pm  at the Union Bluff in York Beach,Maine.
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Hattie's Ice Cream
  • Pattern: Ice Cream Cone by Shannon Holding. Free Crochet Pattern available on the LoopholeFox website & on Ravelry
  • Hook: C (2.75)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Cotton Candy (pink), Blush (pink), White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cone)
  • 2 scoops of ice cream (instructions include option for 3 scoops).
  • 1st scoop is pink, 2nd scoop is white. Pink and purple sprinkles
 
Hattie's Cupcake
  • Pattern: Cupcake by Stitch11. Free crochet pattern available on this website & on Ravelry.
  • Hook: C (2.75)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cake), Big Twist Twinkle in Gray (wrapper)
  • Silver sparkle yarn for cupcake wrapper, taupe for cupcake, white frosting with pink and purple sprinkles to match ice cream.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
  • Over 160 full hexagons done now.
  • I washed all of my finished hexis (that already had ends woven in), in the washing machine on delicate inside a lingerie bag. The lingerie bag is important because with small pieces, you can lose pieces into your machine and cause problems.
  • Results:
    • 5 of them came apart at the join on the final round.
    • No bleeding or fading.
    • No shrinking.
    • I'm glad I did this so I could get the bad ones out of the mix before I seam them.
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
 
Ninja Turtle Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green. Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • Progress: Sock #1 is beyond the heel.
 
Own Two Feet Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray
  • Progress: Just finished the heel of the second sock.
 
Benjamin's Christmas Stocking
 
Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl
  • Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Just finished Section 2 of 3.
 
Brainstorming
 
I charted out elongated shawl design idea which feels really good.
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
  • I finished my January-June Covid Photo Book/Scrapbook that I made in Shutterfly and ordered it!
  • I started working on second half of the year. I have notes about each day of the year that I'm mostly copying/pasting into Shutterfly and adding photos from Google Photos which makes it easier. So grateful I journaled during 2020 as it will likely end up being one of the wildest year of our lives.
 
Knitting in Passing
 
In My Travels
  • Blue Heron Farm set-up table for people to learn Needle Felting. Millie made a butterfly and then a bunny. We purchased a needle felting kit from them. Later Mom found cookie cutters.
  • Millie got lots of snuggle time with 2 French Angora Rabbits that she wants to convince her dad to adopt. Thank you, Jessica.
  • I purchased two batts of Shetland from Wild Air Farm in Bolton, MA.
  • I also chose 3 minis from Sassy Black Yarns.
  • Millie chose a skein of Making Tracks from Junction Fiber Mill
    • Our marled variegated 2 ply yarn. Hand-dyed in small limited-edition batches. Made with 100% American wool.
 
KAL News
  • I emailed all Grand Prize Winners and the sponsors who donated their prizes. Check your email if you haven't already.
  • Splash Pad preliminary prep underway
 
Events
 
On a Happy Note
  • Getting more minis from Nicole in the mail!
  • Met up with my friend Gary from college for coffee while he was in Boston.
  • Hattie's first ever birthday sleepover for her 5th Birthday. I picked her up and then we picked up Millie, at Hattie's request. We had a low key night at home, and went to the Children's Museum the next morning. Hattie was overtired, so we drove her home and then Millie and I met up with my parents to head back into Boston for Riley's dance competition. Mom, Dad, Jeff, Millie, Garret and I all went to an early dinner between her performances.
  • Monday night at a local Irish pub listening to live music for Megg's birthday.
  • Last Saturday, Megg dropped off Oisín to work with Dan, and we all had breakfast before Megg and I went off for a hike. We got back to the car just as the rain started.
  • Millie's Bucket List with a Twist item was to ride horses with Grammy in the snow. It nearly snowed on Saturday May 11, but it was too warm. Thankfully, the rain stopped while we were inside the barn at Nancy & Roger's house, meeting the animals. Our friend Terri is friends with Nancy and Roger who kindly and enthusiastically agreed to help make Millie check off her bucket list item. We met all of the animals, most of whom were rescued. They have a very silly goat, some miniature horses (Goliath, Delilah & Princess Buttercup), 2 Gypsy Vanners (Zoe & her mother Dulcie) and another large horse, Scooter. Mom and I each rode Zoe and Millie rode Dulcie.
  • Garret's 13th birthday sleepover. We went to Altitude to jump on the trampolines, to Panera for dinner and then he taught me how to edit videos using the CapCut app.
 
Quote of the Week
 
In our concern for others, we worry less about ourselves. When we worry less about ourselves an experience of our own suffering is less intense.
 
–DALAI LAMA
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_250_-_31423_5.41_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:25pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 249 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: The Yarn Sellar

The Yarn Sellar is hosting the annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, from 10-3 pm at the Union Bluff in York Beach Maine. Local vendors will be selling hand dyed yarns, roving, buttons, bags, and  notions. $5 gets you in the door, a 15% off coupon to The Yarn Sellar and a chance to win prizes. Grab your fiber friends and make it a fun filled weekend! Make room reservation by calling 207-363-1333 and visit www.Yarnsellar.com for details.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Cloudy Rainbow Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Yarn Cafe Creations Biscotti Yarn (85% SW Merino/15% Nylon 4 ply) in the Thestrals Colorway (gray with blips of rainbow colors
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Cast on 60 stitches and worked 1/1 rib for 14 rounds. Knit about 2 inches and then reduced to 56 stitches (decreases like a toe- done at the beginning and end of each half of the sock).
  • The leg is 10.25 inches before the heel flap.
  • My friend Jen from JLsCreativeShop on Etsy sent me new, laser cut bamboo stitch markers that I started using with this project! They each have a knitting related thing on them. Lightweight, easy to take on and off. $14.99 for set of 5. Get 10% off her shop with code BOSTONJEN.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I’ve been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
  • 4 rounds per hexagon. 142 hexagons done as of now. 5 half hexagons. 3 pointy ones.
  • 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
    • Twin sized blanket is 60×80 inches. 17×22 hexis- 374.
  • Natalie, Knitty Natty, shared on Instagram that she had an issue with centers of her granny squares opening up in the wash. I’ve had issues with this too. My plan for this blanket is to wash all of the hexagons first before seaming together to try to weed out anything that’s not secure. I’ve also thought of a new idea for knotting mine closed because I’m holding yarn double. I’ll share a video for that soon!

Ninja Turtle Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
  • About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green.
  • Progress: I’m maybe an inch past the first cuff.

Own Two Feet Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
  • About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray
  • Progress: I’ve turned the first heel.

Benjamin’s Christmas Stocking

From the Armchair

Movies

Books

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • Riley finished the Reinpack Bag (free Ravelry Download she was knitting for my Mom, her grandmother. We bought yarn at Staci’s Stitches. The yarn is a super bulky t-shirt yarn from Hoooked Zpaghetti. She did most of the bag in a white with black polka dots and then black towards the bottom. The black yarn was definitely thinner, which wasn’t ideal but as long as Mom doesn’t use it to store small buttons or screws, it should be just fine.
  • I gave Riley a very brief kitchener stitch overview and she flew through the rest of it to close up this bag. I’m so proud of her.

In My Travels

  • I visited with Laura in Orleans over the last two weekends. We went to a movie theater to see A Man Called Otto.
  • We browsed Provincetown, which is a bit sleepy in the offseason. We had fun browsing a few shops.
  • We did a taste test of 3 peanut butter cups. Of the three milk chocolate peanut butter cups, Hilliard’s Candy was our favorite followed by The Providence Fudge Factory and then Hot Chocolate Sparrow
  • I taught Laura how to make homemade stovetop popcorn and that nearly turned into a disaster when we thought we ruined the bottom of a Les Creuset but were able to clean/remove the stain with vinegar and baking soda.
  • We also visited the Antique Center Cape Abilities Thrift Store in Yarmouth, MA.
  • I made a quick trip to Adventures in Knitting in Harwich on Saturday. I bought 2 skeins of yarn and a set of Addi sock needles.

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Tune in to hear if you’re one of our 10 Grand Prize Winners

Pigskin ’22 Wrap-up & Highlights.

  • 1030 on Roster this Season
    • 189 people earned 1-25 entries
    • 45 people earned 26-50 entries
    • 17 people got between 51-100 entries
    • 7 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes.
  • 4,143 entries for Finished Projects
  • 693 entries for non-project points
  • 2,578 posts on Instagram using #DCSPigskinParty22
  • Special Challenges & Bonuses
    • Talkgate Talk
    • Fistbumps and Fives
    • Creepy WIP challenge
    • Night Bright challenge
    • Gratitude WIP Bonus
    • Spread the Warmth challenge
    • Plus 4 Interceptions!
  • Our Teams were Part of 3 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Alicia) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Emily) & Sheep Conference(Commissioner: Heather)
    • Llama Conference won for the 2nd year in a row with over 211k points
    • Sheep took second this year with over 188k points
    • Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with over 161k points
  • Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 10 Wildcard WIPers with 67,452 points
    • 2nd Place goes to: Team 7- Garter Guards- 62,789 points
    • In 3rd Place from the Sheep Conference is: Team 12 Sprinting Steekers- 58,213
  • Top Players
    • Julia Wagner, Team 11: 22,514 points
    • KathyG, Team 12: 19, 868 points
    • EyeNowHour, Team 3: 19,732 points
    • Kathleen_Ducharme, Team 7: 19,094

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • If you check out JLsCreativeShop on Etsy & would like to purchase laser cut bamboo stitch markers or other items- you can use coupon code BOSTONJEN for 10% off.
    • The progress keeper I shared is a set of 5 for $14.99.
  • Conshy Connects Resale Therapy Live Sale on Thursday 3/2 at 7p Eastern on Facebook. Proceeds to benefit the FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada. Check out this YouTube Video where Mom & I talk more about this event and the Blind Center.

Ask Me Anything

Tune in to hear my answers to these questions

  • Aggie asked: “How are you doing?”
  • Cher asked: “Project progress please”
  • Brittany asked: “When you went to overseas I saw you had a tiny bag attached to your cross body bag for your knitting.”
  • Frances asked: “all about those hexies”

On a Happy Note

  • Mom’s friend Vikki came for a visit. Dan and I met Mom, Trish and Vikki for dinner and then they came back to our house for a drink.
  • I shared about Mom’s Bucket List with a Twist. Riley’s item was a massive girls party/sleepover. She had an ice cream bar and a popcorn bar, lots of food and other desserts. We played silly games and had a blast!
  • Dan & I bought a new washer and dryer to replace our broken one; Dan was so excited to try it out he did a ton of laundry including our sheets, which is my least favorite thing to do!
  • Mom successfully completed her last 3-day set of chemotherapy! Her record for keeping nausea and vomiting at bay stands! We are very excited about that. I got to visit with my cousins Susan and Joanie who drove Mom in on the second and third days because my dad had vertigo.
  • 90 minute massage, which was even better in the midst of a very busy work week.
  • My time with Laura down in Orleans. Lots of talking, movies, & shopping.

Quote of the Week

Any self-prompt that reminds you to focus on flow not ebb, contributes to your greater sense of abundance. – Sarah Breathnach


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_249_-_22823_4.27_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:34pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 248 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full Show Notes with links and photos can be found on my website. 
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Cascade Heritage Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in Colorway 111 Aqua
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • I finished these before the last episode, but I didn't talk about the colorwork I did before each toe. One sock says "just" and the other says "breathe."
 
Mom's Jean Marie Shawl
  • Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Section 1: Dirty Water Dyeworks Lillian in Sea Breeze with Knit PIcks Capretta in Colorway 27636. Section 2: Dirty Water Dyeworks Lillian in Mediterranean & Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in Clair de Lune. Section 3: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in Clair de Lune with Art by Ewe Signature Yarn in the Sapphire Colorway (70% Baby Alpaca/ 30% Silk). Bind Off: Art by Ewe Signature Yarn in the Sapphire Colorway with a 20g mini of a teal fingering weight yarn (no ball band).
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Held fingering yarn doubled and went up a needle size from what pattern calls for. Result is a slightly larger size than the original which was exactly what I wanted.
  • Cast on February 1. Finished on February 7. Blocked it, dry in time for Mom's birthday on the 9th.
 
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl
  • Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Nearly done with Section 1.
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out this Instagram post that talks about the join I've been using for the end of each hex
  • 4 rounds per hexagon
  • 62 hexagons done as of now
 
Cloudy Rainbow Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Yarn Cafe Creations Biscotti Yarn (85% SW Merino/15% Nylon 4 ply) in the Thestrals Colorway (gray with blips of rainbow colors
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Cast on 60 stitches and worked 1/1 rib for 14 rounds. Knit about 2 inches and then reduced to 56 stitches (decreases like a toe- done at the beginning and end of each half of the sock).
  • I am working on the 2 of them in tandem. Each on their own magic loop.
 
Brainstorming
 
No-Purl Ribbed Blanket by Purl Soho. Click here for the Ravelry Pattern or here for the Purl Soho website. I heard about this on the Knit Ink Podcast/YouTube Channel hosted by Natasha and her mother Petra.
 
I've been very tempted by the Leah Cowl by Susy Knotsosquare. Granny Stripe Crochet cowl with triangle point on front. Calls for DK weight yarn.  Crochet pattern available for a little more than $5 US. Check it out on Ravelry or Etsy. You can also check out her Padme Cowl which is similar but different. Details available on Susy's website.  
 
Generally just thinking about how when a project doesn't have an imminent deadline, I'm far less motivated to pick it up. "What's the point?" is often what comes to mind. It's an interesting thing to consider because the very same project, given a due-date will often excite me to pick up. Does this happen to you?
 
From the Armchair
 
Movies
 
 
Books
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
  • I worked with Millie on handmade Valentine cards for her classmates and teachers.
  • Millie also made a cute Flamingo from a Plush Craft kit we purchased at Michael's. Here's an affiliate link to a similar one available on Amazon.
  • I finished most of the border for the sheep punch needle project that I haven't picked up in more than a year.
 
Punch Needle
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
 
  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Tune in to hear if you won a January participation prize
    • January Interception: Self Care Bingo by Fitness by Mara. Winner announced!
 
Events
On a Happy Note
  • Lunch with the girls, sundaes and popcorn and Tar at Mom's.
  • Mom completed another 3 day round of chemo. We got good news that her January scans show the cancer remains the same. No new growth!
  • My friend Laura came to visit for the weekend. We spent Friday night at my parents' hanging out and watching movies. We briefly lost power but it came back; cable did not, so thankfully we still had some more screener DVDs. Saturday, we hit some secondhand stores before going back over to Mom's for dinner with my parents, my brother and nieces Riley and Millie. The next day we visited Dan's friend Perry who was recently hospitalized and then to see his youngest brother Dave & our niece Gabriella and nephew Zachary.
  • Mom & I each got a haircut (real hair for me, wig for Mom).
  • On Thursday 2/9, we had dinner at Maggiano's for Mom & Hattie's birthdays before going to see Hamilton at the Boston Opera House.
  • Millie came for her 11th Birthday Sleepover (even though her birthday isn't until 2/20). She wanted to record some videos to share, so look for that on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel soon.
 
Quote of the Week
 
If you have a good idea, use it so that you will not only accomplish something, but so that you can make room for new ones to flow into you.
-Deng Ming-Dao
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_248_-_21523_2.10_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 247 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show Notes including photos please click here to visit my website.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles
 
Cascade Heritage Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in Colorway 111 Aqua
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Contrast heel- mini skein in a beautiful solid teal. I did a little colorwork on the foot that I'll share more later.
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket
  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 4 rounds per hexagon
  • 51+ hexagons done now. All ends woven in!
 
Chevron Scrap Blanket
  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria's Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria's Blue Crayon Website.
    • This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
  • For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
  • 1st Strip is finished progress. 11 squares wide. Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
  • Some of this is spirit yarn from my friend Kim's SIL's stash that I received after she passed away (purple). I'm not sure where the pink yarn came from, but it might have been my Nana's stash. It feels great to put it to good use.
 
 
Musselburgh Hat
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
  • Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash in a denim blue (can't find the ballband)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • I found that I liked working this hat in the round. Purchased Addi Rocket Lace Turbo 16 inch needles in US 2 (but it turns out its technically a US 2.5 or a 3.0 mm needle- not a 2.75 mm needle like I use for the cast on). The difference isn't all that noticeable but it was a little frustrating. 
  • Progress check- I have finished the increases and have knit about 4 inches.
  • Plan: Switch colors half way through. I have a lighter blue skein from On the Round that I purchased at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland, MA that I want to use to make it a reversible hat.
 
 
Solstice Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress- turned heel on first sock. Cast on the second sock.
 
Brainstorming
 
My Grandmother called to ask me to knit her another Jean Marie Shawl (named for her). You can find this knitting pattern for $6 on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
 
Here's the story:
  • My grandmother called me in mid-January 2023 saying she needed to place an order. I thought she wanted something from Amazon.
  • She told me very time she wears her Jean Marie Shawl to dinner at her residence she gets tons of compliments. All of her friends love it. Its the right size and it just stays in place perfectly.
  • I published this pattern in 2018 to suit the request that she have a slightly bigger shawl that would stay in place. Half hexagon shape is perfect for this. It is knit in 3 sections, originally done in sport/dk natural yarns from Ross Farm in browns/tans. For this one, she wants white/black to wear with different outfits.
 
 
From the Armchair
Books
Movies
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Some Years Later
 
Wearing lately:
  • Felicity Hat: Aran weight slouchy hat knit in Duck Duck Wool. Ravelry Project Page.
  • Sagamore Flyover Slouch Hat: chunky weight hat. Ravelry Project Page. Yarn: Sugarbush Dawson in Colorway- Wild Willow, a great mustard color. 50/50 llama/wool blend
 
Knitting in Passing
 
  • Sunday night hang. Taught megg single and hdc. Knit a little with Hattie while Dan untangled Hattie’s yarn again. Untangled same ball in Ireland. She’d been using it to create a laser course.
 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
 
  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • January Self Care Interception: hosted by Fitness by Mara. Get your Bingo Card PDF Here or the JPG here. Find all of the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
    • Spread the Warmth Challenge; runs through the end of the Pigskin Party. Get details in this Google doc or this Ravelry Thread.
    • Pigskin Ends on Monday February 13, 2023. Get those projects entered. Don't wait until the last day to get everything entered on the Google Form!
 
Events
 
Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram hosted by CreativeCeci
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • My college roommate and friend Jen opened an Etsy Shop called JLSCreative Shop. Check it out
  • Mom & I recorded an update video that went up on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel in the Just Breathe Playlist. You can find that video here. Right now, scans show things are going well and the combination of chemo and gene therapy is keeping the cancer at bay.
 
Life in Focus
 
23 for 2023 List
  1. Read 23 books
  2. Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes
  3. Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos
  4. Kayak in one new place
  5. Hike in one new place
  6. See 4 plays/musicals
  7. Give blood at least 3 times
  8. Knit myself a pair of mittens
  9. Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun
  10. Watch 3 movies in one day - done!
  11. See a movie in the theater
  12. Go to a museum
  13. Finish 1 punch needle project
  14. Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4)
  15. Try at least 1 new gym/in person fitness option
  16. Make at least 1 new financial investment
  17. Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46.
  18. Publish 1 knitting pattern
  19. Send 5 cards to friends/family just because
  20. Go Camping
  21. Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
  22. Take a class (in person or virtual)
  23. Create a new music playlist
 
Word of the Year- FLOW
flow
  • to proceed smoothly and readily to issue or move in a stream
  • To exist in abundance
  • the continuous movement of a liquid in one direction
  • to hang loose and billowing
  • To move or proceed with a given movement or momentum
  • To pass or move by
  • a supply of something that continues without stopping
  • a way of talking or thinking in an easy natural way, without any pauses or difficulties
  • a  smooth uninterrupted movement or progress
  • Smoothness or fluidity in one's movement
  • A strong, regular repeated pattern of movement or sound
 
Things I'm thinking about:
  • I want to be able to go with the Flow no matter what this year brings.
  • I want to remember my dear Aunt Florence and remind myself what she would do. She was smart, caring, generous and strong. Her presence will be a good guide when things get tough.
  • I want to find projects, especially creatively that I can keep up the flow with... that I can get into a flow state with. To zen/bliss out and enjoy.
  • I want to keep my body strong and stretched so that I can move fluidly through the year without things getting in the way of my body's flow.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Playing the sock game during our visit to the Rowan's. UK/European game. Fun for all ages.
  • Surprise package from Nicole with mini skeins.
  • Snow! Not a lot for as late into the season as we are, but I enjoy it.
  • Visit from family friends who came down from NH. We played games at my parents' house!
  • January Zoom with my Patrons! I had a blast catching up with you.
  • 3 movies in 1 day- checked off my 23 for 23 list. Homemade popcorn. Lots of knitting and crochet time. Fixed dropped sts in Megg's socks.
  • Drag show and dinner with Megg and Kris.
 
Quote of the Week
 
Everything and everyone at their own pace. Flow with not against yourself.
-Akiroq Brost
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_247_-_13123_9.27_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 246 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

  • Perry’s Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Megg’s 2nd Nanaimo Cardigan

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • Yarn:  Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Colorway: Abalone  (5 skeins)
  • Needles: US 13 – 9.0 mm, US 15 – 10.0 mm, US 19 – 15.0 mm (body)
  • Size XS/S 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I added 2 sets of short rows before the bottom ribbing.

Hattie’s Cat Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Siamese Cat Amigurumi by Mareeva Olga available on RavelryFireflyCrochet website & Etsy $6.40
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic from stash: Magenta with sparkle, Silver with sparkle, Purple.
  • Ravelry Project Page

Friends in Fiber Socks

  • Yarn: Friends in Fiber Superwash Merino Nylon (75/25) in the Fibery Jewels Teal Speckle Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • These were my New Year’s Cast on socks.
  • 56 sts. 8.5 inches of knitting before starting the toe.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket 

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Watching:

Reading:

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.Knitting in Passing

  • One of my omg sock students Karen reached out via email with a photo of the 8 pairs of socks she knit and gifted for Christmas after taking my class at the beginning of the year!! 
  • Suzanne, SewRunKnit, sent chemo caps for Mom. She chose one and donated the others to the MGH Cancer Center; the next day they were gone.

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. 
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Tune in to hear if you’re a December interception winner of a December participation prize winner.

Life in Focus

I enjoy doing a look back at the end of each year. You can see the video I made about Reviewing My Year/Goal Setting in this video on my YouTube Channel.

  • Knitting/Crochet/Spinning
    • 70 Knitting/Crochet Finished Projects in 2022
      • 41 knitting 
      • 29 crochet
      • 53 of 70 are gifts
    • Spinning- 4 finished projects. 872 meters of yarn. 
  • Released 0 new patterns but completed the writing and prototype for 2 designs- a shawl & cowl
  • Sagamore Flyover Hat was my best seller this year.

Tune in to hear a recap of my Word of the Year & Goals for 2022. We’ll talk more about plans and goals in the next episode.

On a Happy Note

  • Going to my cousin Amanda’s book party in Plymouth and out to dinner after with family and friends. Musical bingo!
  • 105 people at my parents’ Open House on January 7th, including my friend Laura who came in from NYC for the weekend.
  • Starting process to kick off the Fearless Living Fund in my mom’s name that will benefit blind population through the Blind Center of Nevada. Friends and family surprised Mom with over $1500 in initial donations. Mom’s friend Katy shaved her head in solidarity (check out the YouTube video here) and is raising money. 
  • While my aunt’s passing has been incredibly difficult, there is still a happy note there in that many of us were able to go visit the Sunday before she passed. Dan and I picked up my grandmother and my parents met us at my cousin’s house armed with leftover trays of food from the Open House. Earlier in the day I was able to help transfer Florence into the guest room bed while Dan and some of the guys disassembled her bed to ready her room for a hospital bed. Then we took turns visiting with her, saying our goodbyes, eating dinner and being together. very time the door to her bedroom opened she smiled and said “I love that sound!” and then “I want you to keep doing that. Even after.” I reminded her its not like we could stop it. It was a hard day but made easier being all together. She passed on Wednesday. 
  • Came home that day to flowers and a beautiful from card that in my daze, I never even saw until he came home and pointed them out!
  • Mom made it through another 3 day round of Chemo. 2 more to go (one in late January & one in February)
  • Getting back into yoga. 
  • Date night with Dan. We hit the local brewery and then onto the tavern for dinner. Just what we needed. 
  • Sleeping in! 

Quote of the Week

It is amateurs who have one big bright beautiful idea that they can never abandon. Professionals know that they have to produce theory after theory before they are likely to hit the jackpot.

– Francis Crick

——

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_246_-_11523_2.12_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:15pm EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 245 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Lucy the Fox
  • Pattern: Lucy the Fox by Banga Vaicekauskienė ($3.90 crochet pattern available on Ravelry and Etsy)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White, Black and Orange
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Shrek
  • Pattern: Improvised using the basic instructions from Lucy Collin's Han Solo pattern. Pattern no longer available for individual sale. You can find it in this book available from Amazon (affiliate link).
  • Yarn: Green- Spunky Eclectic Victoria in the Ginko Colorway. Cream- Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Cloud. Brown- Cascade 220 Superwash.
  • Hook: B (2.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page.
  • I used the basic top down instructions from Lucy Collin's Han Solo pattern but made the face and belly bigger using increases and HDCs.
 
Abington Hat
  • Pattern: Abington Hat by Jennifer Lassonde ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • Yarn: fingering held double. Knit Picks Capretta in the Sagebrush Colorway & Friends in Fiber sock yarn.
  • Needles: US 4 & US 6.
  • Size- Medium
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Sugarplum Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sugarplum Colorway (Yarnable Subscription Box)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Belt for Mom's Wave of Change Cardigan
  • Yarn:  Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Mock i-cord edging with garter stitch for the center. Small number of increases at the beginning and decreases at the end. Will have to see if we want to add some icords onto the sweater to hold the belt or not.
 
Wave of Change Jacket 
  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
  • Size 3, 45” bust because it calls for 2-4 inches of positive ease.
  • Switch to Lykke Needles for body. Thought I was using 32”. Was maybe 24. 
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Perry's Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Cascade Colors colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Woolens and Nosh Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
 
Megg's 2nd Nanaimo Cardigan
  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • Yarn:  Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Colorway: Abalone  (5 skeins)
  • Needles: US 13 - 9.0 mm, US 15 - 10.0 mm, US 19 - 15.0 mm (body)
  • Size XS/S
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Crafty Adventures
  • Vlogmas 2022! 3rd year doing this project on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. You can find the playlist here.
  • Christmas Day video still to come.
 
In My Travels
  • I went to Las Vegas with my parents, my brother Jeff and our friends Trish and Thayer from December 13-19th.
  • We visited the Hoover Dam, went ziplining down Fremont Street, had a couple really swanky dinners out including one at the Paris hotel on the Vegas strip overlooking the Bellagio fountains, did a bit of gambling on the slot machines, attended a Gatsby themed wedding and my brother and I ended the trip with a heck of a Patriots/Raiders game at the new Allegiant Stadium.
 
KAL News
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
 
  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Thanks to everyone who participated in our:
    • Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize for November
    • THANK YOU to Wendy, our Umpire, and Alicia, Heather and Emily, our fabulous commissioners!
 
Life in Focus
  • I'm starting my year in review process. In 2020 I recorded a video about that which you can find on my  YouTube Channel. Check out that video here
  • I shared an update on my 22 for 2022 list
 
Ask Me Anything
 
Tune in to hear the answers to these questions asked by listeners:
  • How is your Mom doing? I'm praying for her.
  • I want to hear about your advent knits
  • Knitting projects
  • What was the make you most enjoyed making? What memory makes you happiest?
  • Your plans for 2023, how you're holding up with all that's going on in your world.
  • New Years Cast On Plans
 
On a Happy Note
  • Going to see Six with my bestie, Kris.
  • My friend Liz came over on the Thursday before Christmas to help me wrap. It was a good thing we finished because that night the power went out.
  • Friday morning I went to the ocean to see the waves crashing in after the bombcylone blew through.
  • Christmas Eve at my cousin Susan's- visit with Santa, cutting Mom's hair and a funny exchange where Santa thought I was the mother of one of my cousin's kids.
  • Sleeping over Mom's on Christmas night, watching movies and playing Tock with Mom, Riley and Millie.
  • Christmas morning snuggles with my youngest nephew, Zachary. Silly Christmas games Gail set up at my parents- Cling Wrap Game and the bows game (new to us this year). Stay tuned for the video to come soon!
  • 2 unexpected packages- one from Woolen Women Fibers and one from Suzanne, SewRunKnit, who sent three beautiful chemo caps for Mom/donation.
 
Quote of the Week
 
There are years that ask questions and years that answer.
–ZORA NEALE HURSTON
 
------
Thank you for tuning in.
Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#
If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.
Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_245_-_123122_11.44_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:48am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 244 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website.

Direct download: Episode_244_-_121322_11.11_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:57am EDT

 
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 243 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works & 3 Stitches Short
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Colin & Nora's Christmas Stockings
 
 
Musselburgh
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black & Bumblebee Acres Farm Squishy Sock in the Rainbow Room Colorway
  • Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
  • I knit the Adult Medium and switched to a 16" cord once I had the full number of stitches. I knit 10 inches of black before starting in with the rainbow stripes.
 
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Portal Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor
  • Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock- leg & heel done. Nearly done with the foot. 
 
Mermazing Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my Unboxing Video Here
  • Contrasting heel with LFA mini from my 2021 Advent Calendar
  • First sock done. On the leg of the second sock.
 
First Point of Libra Cowl
  • Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged.
  • I've losing mojo on this so it will be going into hibernation until after Christmas.
 
Sagamore Flyover Cowl
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • A take-off on my Sagamore Flyover Hat available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • Nearly done. Interested to block this to see what tweaks I want/need to make to improve the design.
 
Chemo Cap
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Blackbird Colorway
  • Hook: G hook (4.5 mm)
  • No real pattern. Improvising using notes from one I made for my Aunt Florence on December 1, 2020. You can find that Ravelry Project Page Here.
 
Brainstorming
 
  • Musselburgh hat for my brother with self-striping yarn in Boston Bruins (hockey) colors once I've finished my first one to make sure I like the fit.
  • Socks and toys for Christmas gifts
  • Advent socks with my kit from Woolens & Nosh.
  • Travel packing- what to bring?!
 
From the Armchair
 
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
 
 
 
Contest, News & Notes
  • There will be no second podcast episode in November. 
  • I am planning to release Vlogmas videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel in December. Click here for my 2021 Vlogmas Playlist. or here for my 2020 Vlogmas Playlist.
 
Life in Focus
  • Last time I shared that my Mom's lung cancer has returned. We've since learned that the cancer has transitioned to small cell lung cancer which is more aggressive and will require more aggressive chemo. Keep those thoughts & prayers coming.
  • Check out this video where Mom shares more.
 
On a Happy Note
  • We had new railings installed.
  • Dan is very handy and was able to fix our broken water pump- even after power went out right after!
  • Vlogging with the girls. You can find the video here.
  • My aunt Florence came for a visit in a red convertible!
  • Playing Tock with Mom, Millie, Riley and Liz.
  • Decorating a Christmas Tree with Mom, Dad, Dan and the kids. Watching Elf & The Santa Clause
  • Playing with a new vlogging camera I purchased. The kids had a lot of fun with it too.
  • Family photos with Amanda Silva Photography. You can find a sneak peek in her Instagram Feed here.
 
Quote of the Week
 

“We may, by fixing our attention almost fiercely on the facts actually before us, force them to turn into adventures; force them to give up their meaning and fulfill their mysterious purpose.”

-- G. K. Chesterton
 
------
Thank you for tuning in.
Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#
If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.
I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.
Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.
 
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_243_-_111722_11.23_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:27pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 242 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show Notes with Photos, check out my website.
 
This week’s segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Star KnitsAdore KnitLolo Did It 

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Woolens & Nosh Sprout Socks
 
  • Yarn:  Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, tapue, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
  • Yarn from Woolens & Nosh-  Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
  • Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs 
Repaired the cuff on Mom’s Deja Blue Knit Picks Felici Socks from 2019.
 
  • Click here for my Ravelry Project Page. 
  • I knit cuff down, so it was a bit of project to cut off the top of the sock, unravel back to the stockinette. Worked back up and used Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off to finish them. 

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Musselburgh
  • Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda’s website)
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black 
  • Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
Colin & Nora’s Christmas Stockings
Mermazing Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my 
  • Blues and greens and purples. 
  • Contrasting heel with LFA mini from my 2021 Advent Calendar
  • Yarn from Pigskin Party Sponsors Hypnotic Yarn/Yarnable Box & Legacy Fiber Artz- both Snack Shack Sponsors
  • Project Bag from Anne Beady Designs (Pro Shop Sponsor)
  • Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished.
Portal Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor
  • Yarn- speckles. Mostly reads pink/maroons. so many tiny specks of color. taupe, green, blue, purple, gray/brown. 
  • Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock has several inches done on the leg
2021 Scrappy Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
  • In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here.
  • Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished + an inch or so of the leg. Helical knitting made these so much more interesting to me. Game changer.
First Point of Libra Cowl
  • Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor 
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here’s the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that’s now frogged. 
  • Inspiration color= Barnyard Knits- Pricky Pear (multi- has grays, greens and pinks). Matches new long, green, quilted coat from J. Jill.  Plus Fuse Merino Sock in Mercury Glass (gray) & Fuse in Radical Acceptance (pink)
  • I think this project would be great for small scraps because even though each section calls for X number of rows, you could easily modify it and have wider or thinner stripes in each direction. 
Spinning
  • 4oz of 100% Natural Cotswold purchased from Long Island Livestock Company at Rhinebeck for $20. Beautiful tan color. 
  • No real plan or prep. Just enjoying the process.

Brainstorming

  • I’d like to make a fingering weight hat using yarns from the First Point of Libra Cowl to bring to the UK in November. 
  • Found yarn for Megg’s next Nanaimo Cardigan for Christmas- Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Abalone Colorway. Ordered from Joann.com

From the Armchair

On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • I shared stories about a women who took my knitting from me on the train and started knitting it herself, about how Hattie thought my Mom’s cowl was the funniest beard she ever saw, how I was recognized by a local knitting in the lobby of a theater during intermission and about a chat with lovely woman at my local nail salon.

In My Travels

  • Rhinebeck 2022: Mom, Ryan, Nicki & I had a whirlwind weekend at CAKEPalooza and Rhinebeck- the NY Sheep & Wool Festival. Come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of the trip in this video on the 
    • In this episode I shared just a few highlights. Some key links:
  • Shameka‘s cupcakes that we bought at CAKEpalooza
  • Rhinebeck sweaters- Mom and I each wore our Wave of Change Jackets. Click here for the Ravelry Project Page for Jen’s Sweater & the Ravelry Page for Mom’s sweater. On Sunday, I wore my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl. Mom wore her new Shift Cowl- click here for the Ravelry Project Page
  • Mom got to share her Scrapbox Challenge project with Crispina who hosted this challenge in March 2020
  • Ross Farm Fiber Tour 2022 Shirts
In November I’m going to the UK. I’ll be visiting Manchester, Newbury & London, England & Cardiff, Wales. Do you have any tips or suggestions for me? Restaurants, shops, best ways to get theater tickets etc. 

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
 
  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. 
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • First of the Pigskin Participation Prizes.
    • The 10 Grand Prizes will be shared soon!
    • Check out November’s Woolen Cafe Interception Challenge hosted by Woolen Women Fibers. You can find the details in the Ravelry Group or in this 
    • The October Interception Winner will be shared in early November in the Ravelry Group & in the next episode. Thanks again to Sunsoaked Yarns for hosting!
    • Rule update: you need to have a Unique URL for each submission. Check out this Ravelry Post for details. I’ve also updated the Official Rules. 
    • This year we’ll have 10 grand prizes! Will share details in the group soon!

Life in Focus

  • Quick health update on Mom who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer on December 1, 2021. Her October scans showed new tumors in the pleura (lining) of her lungs which aren’t responding to her Tagrisso gene therapy medicine. They’ll be doing a biopsy to see if they can tell why it is resistant and perhaps there is another drug they can try. Since that will take about a month before we have results, she’ll be starting chemotherapy in the meantime. 1st infusion on November 4th. Send out all those good wishes. 
  • You can check out the video we recorded together if you want to hear more. The first 40 minutes are really just a recap of our spring, summer and fall fun- complete with photos and videos. 

On a Happy Note

  • Rhinebeck!
  • Sharon of Knit Style Yarns just released her first pattern- Celtic Christmas Cowl ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) & kindly gifted me a copy. Thank you Sharon & congrats!
  • I went to see Sweeney Todd at Company Theater with Mom, Terri & Emelyn.
  • My cousin Colleen got married last weekend! She looked beautiful. The wedding was perfect. They had cider donuts instead of wedding cake! Mom & my 94 year old Aunt Florence who also has cancer, set Colleen’s wedding as their goal and they were both there with big smiles and so much energy. Dancing and laughing. We are all so grateful for that. Colin and Nora whooping it up on the dance floor. Colleen & her Dad dancing in the trolley all the way back to the hotel with Dan and my cousin Joanie’s husband using their phone flashlights to create a strobe effect!
  • Oisin and Dan working to cut and stack wood. Made Oisin a batch of applesauce even though I haven’t had time to teach him how to make it yet. 
  • My cousins sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Total surprise.
  • 20 years at my day job. Dinner celebration postponed but Dan and I look forward to going to that in early 2023. I got to pick out a gift from an online catalog. I picked an Air Fryer so hit me with your best vegetarian air fryer recipes!
  • Our contractor starting putting new railings on our deck.
  • We attended my cousins (Pat & Kevin’s) joint Surprise Costume Birthday Party. Mom, Dad, Dan and I dressed up in a Little Mermaid Theme! 
  • We saw a local production of Guys & Dolls. Megg is a Hot Box Dancer. Oisin was a Gambler. They were both great!

Quote of the Week

There is the touch of November in the air, chill enough to have a slight tang, like properly aged cider. Not air that caresses, nor yet air that nips.  Air that makes one breathe deeply and think of spring water and walk briskly.
 
-Hal Borland
 
Contact Information:
 
Direct download: Episode_242.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:39am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 241 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes with photos on my website by clicking here. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors:

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

The Shift (Cowl)

  • Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
  • Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Marled Wave of Change Jacket

  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 8 – 5.0 mm, US 9 – 5.5 mm + US 10 – 6.0 mm
  • Yarn
    • Marled effect achieved by holding yarn together.
    • 2 sock + 1 DK or worsted
    • 1 DK or worsted + 1 Aran
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Needles: US 10 for the body. US 8 for the neck ribbing. US 9 for the bottom hem and non-button band ribbing sections.
  • Yarns Used: Goosey Fibers, Sunsoaked Yarns, Hypnotic Yarn, Ross Farm (Henrietta), McKnits, Teenie Button Studio, Legacy Fiber Artz ,Spitfire & Fury DK+ my own handspun+ others!
  • Modifications in the sleeves- after the first 3 decreases, I changed to doing decreases every other round until I got to the designated stitch count. Finished in the 3rd color stripe.
  • If you’re weary of marling, choose colors that are similar in value. Mixing a white with a dark color like black, dark purple or maroon is going to be a very stark contrast. I don’t always love that.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Woolens & Nosh Socks

  • Yarn:  Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, taupe, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
  • Yarn from Woolens & Nosh-  Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
  • Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs

Brainstorming

  • Christmas ideas- like these cute crocheted pieces that attach to a large wooden ring. You put them over the bar on the oven or dishwasher and then you can hang a dishtowel from the wooden ring. Here’s a Pinterest link for a crochet option.
  • Aila wants a fox.
  • Oisin wants an alien.
  • Hattie wants a unicorn because she thinks hers was lost. TBD.

From the Armchair

  • The Girl Next Door Podcast: I thoroughly enjoyed their annual Fall Extravaganza episodeand this year was no exception.
  • I didn’t especially enjoy the Serial Podcast recent update about Adnan Syed’s case but I was relieved to hear that Syed was officially ruled out as a suspect in the murder of Hae Min Lee in 1999 (though he served 23 years in prison)
    • Check out this local Baltimore news story.
    • Congrats to Syed & and his family and especially his fierce friend and advocate Rabia Chaudry. Check out this video on Rabia’s Instagram Feed for more details.
    • Listen to Season 1 of Undisclosed if you want more about this case (especially if you only ever listed to Serial).
  • I also enjoyed episodes 1 & 2 of Rabia’s new podcast- Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case.
  • Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney Plus I adored it!

In My Travels

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.
    • Will announce first of the Participation prizes in the next episode!

Events

On a Happy Note

  • Our well is at a normal level again! Cooking & doing laundry feels like a privilege when you haven’t been able to do it for months.
  • We have some Sneaky Pumpkins growing near our deck (where last year’s pumpkins must have met their demise!)
  • Apple Picking- my favorite day of the year
  • Kids working around the yard with Dan. Getting firewood chopped and stacked. They moved our back steps to get ready for new railings that we’re hiring a contractor to install.
  • My Dad turned 70! We had a super fun party for him at my parents’ house. I had a nasty cold which was a bummer for me, but otherwise it was great.
  • Merry Everything & Happy Always Yarn Swap is open for sign ups. Thanks to those who knew I wanted to sign up and made sure I got in there. Swap Partners will be assigned on 10/16 so get into the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group ASAP if you want to join.
    • 24 mini skeins/balls of 5-7 grams each (Fingering/Sock Yarn)
  • I got self striping from Desert Vista Dyeworks yarn in the mail + my October Yarnable Subscription Box. Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Video on my YouTube Channel.

Quote of the Week

To improve the golden moment of opportunity, and catch the good that is within our reach, is the great art of life.–SAMUEL JOHNSON

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_241_-_101322_1.14_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 240 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Stormy Nanaimo

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry or in kits on this website)
  • Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Storm Front colorway
  • Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm), US 15 (10.0 mm), US 19 (15.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page 
  • 4.15 skeins (705 grams)
  • Started collar in September 2021. Then put it aside and didn’t pick up until Friday 9/23/22
  • Realized I forgot decrease round before ribbing on the sleeves and had to rip those back to fix them.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mermazing Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my Unboxing Video Here
  • Yarn from Pigskin Party Sponsors Hypnotic Yarn/Yarnable Box & Legacy Fiber Artz- both Snack Shack Sponsors
  • Project Bag from Anne Beady Designs (Pro Shop Sponsor)

The Shift

  • Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
  • Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I messed up on a slipped stitch section in the decrease side, so I am going to continue it a few more times so it looks intentional, though you can hardly tell with the handspun.

Portal Socks

  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor

Woolens & Nosh Socks

  • Yarn:  Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, tapue, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
  • Mini for cuffs and heels- brown with cream speckles. 
  • Yarn from Woolens & Nosh-  Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
  • Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs 

Sagamore Flyover Cowl 

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • A take-off on my Sagamore Flyover Hat available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts. 

2021 Scrappy Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
  • In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here.

Brainstorming

  • Fidget Toys from Shanalines Designs-  Ravelry Link & Payhip
  • I want to cast on all the things!
  • Should I cast on a Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match Mom’s at Rhinebeck? $10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry 
    • Top down open front cardigan mostly stockinette w/ periodic purl ridges. 
    • Mom’s is tunic length. I think I’d make my cropped to wear as a layering piece. Thinking mustard. 
    • This blog post by Susanna Winter has a great formula to help you figure out holding strands of various weights of yarn together to equal a different weight of yarn.
    • Beth sent me Instagram stories from FashionSchoolDropOut who made one with worsted and 2 strands of sock. Changed colors after each purl bump. 
  • Thanks to AJ for recommending Fundamentals of Caring with Paul Rudd (2016 movie). Available on Netflix. I’m planning to watch it soon.

From the Armchair

The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • Take Back Bags from For Days does accept yarn. Thanks Rachel Kashani.
    • Cost $20. They mail you a bag (takes 3 weeks to ship)
    • The Large Bag measures 24 in x 24 in and fits 15 lbs
    • Mail back with USPS. You will get a $20 credit to spend with them

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. 
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
  • Important Updates in this Episode
    • Thanks to everyone who participated in our Kick Off Events. Beth joined us from the hospital. AJ, from South Africa, and EJ from South Korea joined us from all sorts of crazy time zones! So great to see so many familiar faces in long time friends and to also get to know some of the newbies a little better. 
    • Tailgate Talk -ended 9/23 but you can enter for your points through 9/30 on the Points Tally Form. 
    • Fistbumps & Fives: Send some positivity to one of your Teammates, Opponents or Commissioners. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter your points by 9/30. Check out the details in the Ravelry Group or in this Google Doc.
    • Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.

Events

Life in Focus

Tune in to hear an update on my 22 for 2022 list. 

  1. Go Skiing 1/18/22 Loon mountain + 2 days in February
  2. Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)- Cowl in progress
  3. Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
    • IDEAS FOR ME?
  4. Read 22 novels – 15 as of September
  5. Go to an art museum (travel in November- should be able to do this)
  6. Buy something a little extravagant – new skiis & bindings 1/17/22
  7. Meet with financial planner about new investments. Emailed 9/27
  8. Do at least 1 yoga video per month Jan, Feb, March, April  May, June, July, Sept (no August) 
  9. Kayak at one new place- NOPE
  10. Create the collage wall in my studio- purchased several items. Need to just pull the trigger.
  11. Visit Eme at school (April 2022)
  12. Try out the new trail on Grove Street -Sunday May 13, 2022
  13. 2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
    • Laura visit in October. Maybe she wants to do this with me? 
  14. Purge & declutter the secretary
  15. Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
    • IDEAS FOR ME?
  16. Take a vacation/staycation before August  (planned Saco trip & Northampton Concert trip for August)
  17. Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings- April & September
  18. Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed- scheduled 10/12
  19. Hire a professional photographer for family photos- emailed in Sept.
  20. Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
  21. Go Apple Picking (on the calendar)
  22. Hang a calendar in the dining room- done in February

On a Happy Note

  • Conor’s wedding (blog post available over on Patreon)
  • Decorating for Fall
  • Our friend Liz slept over so Dan could drive her to the airport very early the next morning.
  • Long morning walks on the weekend.

Quote of the Week

A library is a medicine cabinet. What can heal one person may not work at all for somebody else.

–SANDRA CISNEROS

Contact Information:

 

Direct download: Episode_240_-_93022_12.12_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:16pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 239 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show notes with photos check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors:

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Recollection Blanket

  • Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
  • Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash.
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
  • Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe). 
  • 6,576 meters for Stash Dash

Baker Street Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Baker Street Colorway
  • My Ravelry Project 
  • 278.6 meters for Stash Dash

Hat for Dad

  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
  • Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
  • Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • 225.6 meters for Stash Dash.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Solstice Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Mermazing Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my Unboxing Video Here

The Shift

  • Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
  • Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Swatched- US 5, US 4 and finally US 3
  • LOVE working with my handspun.

Cloudy + Rainbows Spinning Project

  • Fiber: 4oz braid of BFL from Frabjous Fibers in the Rainy Day Rainbows Colorway
  • Description- long stretches of light gray punctuated with shorter blips of rainbow colors
  • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
    • This means when I’m spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
  • Plans: will likely ply with another braid. 

Brainstorming

  • I should start 2 crochet stockings that I need to have done by Thanksgiving.
  • Planning another Shift Cowl for me! 
  • Yarn recycling. Do you know of any options besides mailing scraps to Hedgehog Fibres

Knitting in Passing

Package from Sarah- the martini knitter . Fiber fill and yarn 2 blues Knitting will Millie megg and Hattie over the weekend. 

KAL News

Pigskin Party’22: Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. 
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread

Tip from Sarah- Imagined Landscapes- on Watching or Ignoring Team Threads:

  • You can set Ravelry Threads to watch or ignore.
    • Watching a thread means it will pop up to the highest point under the stickied threads if there‘s a new post.
    • Ignoring a thread means you never see it again – I use it to clear up teams I‘m not on so there‘s less visual clutter for my PSP.
  • Check out this page on Ravelry for instructions on how to Ignore a Thread.

Fist Bumps & Fives Challenge– check out this link for details.
Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter for points between 9/23-9/30.

Virtual Kick Off Weekend-click here for the schedule

Events

  • Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) ended August 31st
  • My final tally- 27,546 m 
    • Compare to previous years
      • My best year ever! Beat 2020’s total by 71 meters)
        • 2021- 16,696. 
        • 2020-27,475
        • 2019- 16,355
        • Funny how I bounce between 16k one year and 27 another!  
    • 32 projects
      • 12 crochet. 14 knit, 6 skeins handspun
      • Crochet- 20,679 meters
      • Knit- 3,819 m
      • Spinning- 3,046 m
    • Types of Projects
      • 11 pairs socks
      • 6 skeins handspun
      • 5 Blankets (18, 524 m)
      • 4 cozies
      • 2 Tops (1 crop, 1 tunic bathing suit cover up)
      • 1 hat, 1 tie, 1 shawl, 1 toy, 

Jasmin ended this year with 10,838 Meters. I beat her by 16,707 meters!!!

  • Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc

Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2. Check out their Event Website for details. Facebook Page available here. Pro Shop Sponsor Anne Beady will be at Salt Yarn Studio on Thursday 9/29 with her beautiful bags & design samples!

Greater Boston Yarn Crawl– is also being held Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2

EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details.

 

Contest, News & Notes

On a Happy Note

  • A quick visit from Laura in from NYC.
  • Dan and I did a big cellar clean-out over Labor Day weekend. 
  • We enjoyed a big pool day (Oisin and Eme practiced their diving, Hattie practiced her swimming with Auntie Di) over Labor Day Weekend. We followed that with a clam bake, a belated birthday celebration for Oisin who turned 14 in June (while still in Ireland). 
  • Oisín working with Dan in the yard again this fall. They uncovered an impromptu pumpkin patch that sprung up next to our deck!
  • We had our first fire of the fall. Pizza and beer after the boys were done working. Hattie (age 4) asked “are you gonna knit with me?”  I asked if she was going to knit with ME! And she did. 
  • We enjoyed our last pool day and family trip to Hornstra for ice cream! 

Quote of the WeekAt some point in life the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint or even remember it. It is enough.–TONI MORRISONMusic -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/——Thank you for tuning in.Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I’d greatly appreciate it.I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I’d love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I’m up to between episodes.Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube ChannelEmail me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com
For website:Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_239_-_91522_3.25_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:38pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 238 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes, check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Uneek Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each. 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 289.4 meters

Tweed Tie

  • Pattern: Tweed Tie by Jem Weston- 4 GBP (around $5 US) 
  • Needles: US 2. (2.75) for body, US 3 (3.25 mm) for cast-on
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Flagstone Heather colorway.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Omitting all increases//decreases to keep the bottom at the end of the tie flat not pointed. 
  • Finished tie is over 60 inches long. 
  • 126.6 meters 

3 skeins in my Candombe Project- check out my Ravelry Project Page

  • 2 skeins of 2ply yarn. Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. & Malabrigo in the Candombe Colorway
    • 2 ply-60 inch loop. 242 wraps.12,762 inches or 410 yards. 324 meters. Stash Dash- 324 x3= 972 meters
    • 2 ply-59 inch loop. 81 wraps4,779 inches or 133 yards. 121 meters. Stash Dash= 121 x 3= 363 meters
  • 1 skein of a 3 ply. those 2 singles plus 1 other random tan colored singles. 
    • 60 inch loop 38 wraps.2,280 inches or 63 yards. 57 meters Stash Dash= 57 x4= 228 meters

Stash Dash Meters for this project: 1563 meters. All measurements taken after washing skeins

1 skein of yarn in Greens & Blues

  • Blues: Included singles from  Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece
  • Greens: Malabrigo Nube Roving 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 3 ply yarn 62 wraps around knitty noddy. 28 inches wide (or 56 inches around) after washing. 3,472 inches total or 96 yards or 88 meters
  • 88×4 for Stash Dash = 352 meters

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Mapped out gradation plan in Excel.
  • 21 rows total. 12 or 13 hexis depending on the column. 
  • SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together. 
  • Working my way from the dark side to the light side when I pulled some hexis out of the bag where I was storing them- and pulled out a huge piece which I had forgotten I’d seamed together. It was the far right column and part of the top row of the light side! At least I realized it when I did, and only had to rip back a small bit of what I had already done. 
    • I used safety pins and paper with notes to indicate which hexi was the start/end of each column. Worked like a charm and I didn’t have any other issues after that. 
  • Border- 1 round SC, 4 rounds HDC around. 
    • switch light to dark gray to match blanket.
  • Size (before washing) 45 in wide by 66 inches long
  • 1976 grams total- almost 20 skeins of yarn! 
    • Marled= 400 grams
    • Patons= 450 grams
    • 1126 grams of everything else
    • 7,176 meters

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Recollection Blanket

  • Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
  • Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash.
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
  • MC- 3 strands of gray
  • Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe). 

Baker Street Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Baker Street colorway with Stroll Tonal in Navy for cuffs, heels & toe
  • My Ravelry Project 

Hat for Dad

  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
  • Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
  • Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Rhinebeck sweaters. Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match the one I made Mom for Christmas 2020. Check out the Ravelry Project Page for her sweater. 
  • Use up some handspun for us to wear. Thinking of The Shift (Cowl) by Andrea Mowry (available on Ravelry & on the Drea Renee Knits Website for $7 US)

From the Armchair

Here’s to Us by Elin Hilderbrand. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Crafty Adventures

  • Decorations and costumes for Megg’s Gatsby party. 
  • Bought nearly all of it second hand. Gold and silver candles, candle holders, vases and glasses. 
    • Got pink feather fan looking things on Clearance at Michaels along with what looks like sparkly crystal pink gravel. Put on silver and gold chargers under/around candles. 
  • Spray painted feathers and sticks. Put in a large silver vase and added pearls strung through for centerpiece. 

Knitting in Passing

This week, I shared a story about a man I encountered on the train who talked about his family’s history with fiber arts and the sewing he did in the Army.

KAL News

#DCSPigskinParty22

  • Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
  • Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
  • Link to the Official Rules
  • Player Registration- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. (COMING SOON)
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link
    • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread

Sponsors Signed up (so far)
Pro Shop:

  • agirlandherwool
  • Anne Beady Designs
  • JDStudios480
  • Imagined Landscapes
  • Charming Ewe
  • Adoreknit
  • Knit Style Yarns
  • Knitters Brewing Company
  • Jennifer Lassonde Designs

Snack Shack

  • Sunsoakedyarns
  • Shanalines Designs
  • KnittenKristen Designs
  • Maple Roots Creative
  • MollyHatChick 
  • Christen Clement Designs
  • Fitness by Mara 
  • Desert Vista Dyeworks
  • Mcknits

Virtual kick off events Friday through Sunday 9/23- 9/25. Stay tuned for details!

Welcome to our 3 new Commissioners this season!

  • Heather (zoomdogknits)
  • Emily- (ElsaandEm)
  • Alicia (almariecraft)

Teams will be announced 9/5
Tailgate Talk Challenge– runs 9/9-9/23. Stay tuned for details

Events

  • Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August.
    • Discord link: knit girllls discord
    • Current standings with Jasmin
      • Jen: 20,465 meters (Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc.)
      • Jasmin: 10,838 meters (Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc)

On a Happy Note

  • Mom’s August scans look good despite having to come off her gene therapy medicine because of severe and painful issues with the skin and nails on her hands. 
  • Dinner with my parents, brother and grandmother for her 87th birthday!
  • Visiting Dan’s friend Perry’s for his 81st Birthday. We found a local bakery that makes delicious pies. Great find.
  • Pool Days!
  • Queen Cover Band at South Shore Music Circus, after which my brother stayed over. He, Dan and I stayed up late talking. 
  • Mid-week trip out to Northampton with Kris & Megg for the Indigo Girls concert! We bought matching tank tops & wore them hiking the next morning. Every person we saw commented on them and asked if we were in some kind of club! 
  • Megg’s Gatsby Party!
  • Hiking in Wompatuck w/ Megg now that she’s back from Ireland.
  • Shopping at Ollie’s with Mom, Trish and Theresa. It’s very similar to Building 19 which is an old-school New England favorite for bargain shopping.
  • Watching Aila dance in the Cabaret show and Hattie (age 4) cheering her on (and having to stop her from dancing too much in the audience). I also got to see Eme for the first time since they got back from Ireland. 
  • Mom’s eBay New England Seller’s Meet Up Group met for the first time since Covid this week! Had fun catching up with her crew. Check out their Facebook group here.

Quote of the Week

Yet occasionally we discover in the folds of an old handkerchief a shell or insignificant stone that had once embodied our happiest of afternoons.

–PATTI SMITH


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_238_-_8_31_22_10.01_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:46am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 237 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, please check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/237 

 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Shawl Design 

  • I finished up the sample for a new shawl design using a 150g skein of fingering weight from  agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk. I lost at yarn chicken andended up finding another similar colorway in leftovers bin. I think it was Queen City Pigskin Colorway- the Huddle is Real. 
  • The finished shawl weighs 160 grams
  • 676.8 meters for Stash Dash

Tiles for Miles Blanket

  • Pattern: Tiles for Miles Crochet Baby Blanket by Yarnspirations. Free crochet pattern available on the Yarnspirations website
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted. Mint for MC. Many colors of greens, blues and grays for Contrast Colors.
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 586 grams
  • 1172.0 meters for Stash Dash

Scrappy Europe Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway, Paton’s Kroy FX in the Geranium Colors Colorway and other fingering weight leftovers. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 
  • Leftovers from Megg’s Socks that I knit and left in Ireland in May and Marta’s socks that I knit in Scotland and Spain and leftt behind for Marta. 
  • Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out this video on my YouTube Channel for the tutorial.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • 60 grams. 238.8 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Spinning

  • Malabrigo Nube Roving.113g combed top Merino wool. Colorway: 870 Candombe. 1 bobbin full.
  • Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. 

Uneek Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each. 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 1st sock done. 2nd is beyond the heel

Tweed Tie

  • Pattern: Tweed Tie by Jem Weston- 4 GBP (around $5 US) 
  • Needles: US 2. (2.75) for body, US 3 (3.25 mm) for cast-on
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Flagstone Heather colorway.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Omitting all increases//decreases to keep the bottom at the end of the tie flat not pointed. 
  • Modification: for the last stitch of each row, I am slipping purlwise with the yarn in front for a neater edge.
 

Recollection Blanket

  • Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
  • Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash.
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
  • Holding all yarn triple. Clusters of treble crochet.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Planned for 20 columns total. 11 or 13 hexis depending on the column. 
  • SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together. 

From the Armchair

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

In My Travels

  • Camping at On the Saco Campground in Fryeburg ME
  •  2 days paddling. 9 miles each day
  • Thurs night went to Saco River Brewing then to the restaurant next door.
  • Living my best life sleeping my hammock tent.
  • Trash collecting. 

KAL News

#SplashPadParty22

  • Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link
    • Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
  • Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
  • View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
  • Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
  • Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Stats:

  • 155 players entered
  • 1022 projects finished & entered
    • 424 used around 50g
    • 357 used around 100g
    • 189 projects used around 200g!
    • 52 used around 150g
  • 10 Pro Shop Sponsors
  • 17 Snack Shack Sponsors
  • 2,268 Sponsor Products used in the creation of the 1022 FOs
  • 33 Participation Prizes
  • 30 Final Prizes

Thank you to Wendy and Jen!!!!!
Tune in to hear if you’re one of our end of the summer winners! I will email all winners within a week of this recording.

Events

On a Happy Note

  • My friend Laura visited during the first weekend in August. Celebrated her birthday. She, Mom and I saw The Neil Diamond Musical; A Beautiful Noise in Boston.
  • Second hand shopping. I bought a beautiful cedar entertainment center.
  • Dan, Laura, Aila and I all had sleepovers at Mom & Dad’s. Pool time, ice cream and penny drop. 
  • The Rowans are home from Ireland!
  • Tuesday August 9 we celebrated Mom & Hattie’s half birthdays at the beach.
  • Camping!
  • Sunday- pooltime and dinner with Mom, Dad and my brother, Jeff.

Quote of the Week

For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock.–JAMES BALDWIN

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_237_-_81522_12.34_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:28pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 236 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photo check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Woolen Women Splash Pad Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers 80/20 SW Merino/Nylon Blend. Colorway: Into the Deep
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 219.6 meters for Stash Dash

4 Crocheted Jar Cozies

  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up in various colors
  • Hook: G (4.25) for bottom and F (3.75 mm) for the sides
  • Patterns: some are a take off on my Ball Band with a Twist pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • Rainbow Ball Band with a Twist- Ravelry Project Page. 38.5 meters
  • Improv Cluster Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 35.4 meters 
  • Teal Vanicream Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 40.7 meters
  • Gray Vanicream Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 41.6 meters

Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag #2

  • Pattern: Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag by Laura Sutcliffe (2 GBP crochet pattern) $2.70 US 
  • Hook: 2.75 mm (C) for bunny & 3.25 mm (D) for sleeping bag
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted- gray, white, pink, orange and green colors
  • Made one in February 2020 for my niece Hattie’s 2nd birthday. This is for Gabriella’s 2nd birthday 
  • Stuffing: mostly used the cotton that comes at the top of a new bottle of pills/OTC medicine.
  • 84 meters for Stash Dash
  •  

 On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Malabrigo Nube Roving

  • 113g combed top Merino wool
  • Colorway: 870 Candombe
  • Have at least 2. Maybe 3 of these. 
  • Purples, pinks, dusty pumpkin/mustard. 
  • Pre-drafting really helps.

Uneek Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each. 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Recollection Blanket

  • Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
  • Yarn: Various Fingering Weight Yarns from stash held triple. Yarns include (but not limited to)- Legacy Fiber Artz, Yarnable, Goosey Fibers, Knitters Brewing Company, Cascade, Knit Picks Felici.
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Changed color plan- after purchasing new pillows for our couch. Pinks, peach, orange, yellow. bits of tan and purple.
  • Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe). 

Shawl Design 

Sideways shawl design that I had to rip back to center (after finishing the increases) because I wasn’t happy with how decreases are laying. Figured out what I needed to fix. Ripped back a lot, finally got back to virgin yarn again.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Mapped out gradation plan in Excel.
  • Need:- 132 dark gray & 128 light gray. Completed: 203 of 260 

Tiles for Miles Blanket

  • Pattern: Tiles for Miles Crochet Baby Blanket by Yarnspirations. Free crochet pattern available on the Yarnspirations website
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted. Mint for MC. Many colors of greens, blues and grays for Contrast Colors.
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

KAL News

#SplashPadParty22

  • Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link
    • Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
  • Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
  • View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
  • Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
  • Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.
  • All projects must be finished by the end of the day (your time) on Sunday July 31, 2022). All entries must be submitted via the Summer Celebration Form by Friday 8/5/22.
  • 823 projects entered so far!3,404 entries for prizes!!
  • Will announce winners of our final prizes in Episode 237!

 Events

Ask Me Anything

  • Mazzygirl1- How is your sweet Mom doing?
  • Pebblesgirlcrafts- This isn’t podcast related but would ever do a sock drawer tour on YouTube?
  • Genna-with-a-Gee- What are your favorite sources of crafting inspiration? Crafts, YouTube etc?YouTube Channels: Legacy Fiber ArtzKnitty NattyEarthtones GirlStitching the High Notes.Scrolling Instagram. Photos in Ravelry Chat Thread. 

On a Happy Note

  • Visit with Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz & Sharon from Knit Style Yarns
  • 90 min massage was great even though it left my calves with polka dot bruises
  • Beachside drinks and dinner with my bestie Kris, my mom and hers. 
  • Not so happy about wrist pain that lasted for about 4 days but it passed quickly.
  • Furniture shopping with Mom. First night out we got a bookcase about 27 baskets for me. I took Friday off of work, and we did some more furniture shopping.
  • I went to the Keith Urban Concert with the fam including a few of our cousins, followed by family sleepover at Mom & Dads that turned into two  90+ degree pool days. Floating. Diving contests. Penny drop (if you want to play this game with your family consider using my Amazon Affiliate link for purchase)
  • Cardio jazz class with my girlfriends.
  • Being eligible to donate blood again- 1 year after treatment from Lyme disease ended.
  • Going to the Red Sox/Gaurdians Game for the David Ortiz Hall of Fame Induction Celebration. 
  •  

Quote of the Week

I believe one thing; that today is yesterday and tomorrow is today and you can’t stop. 

-Martha Graham

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_236_-_73122_12.45_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 235 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, check out my website

 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Felici Socks (2 finished)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page) 
  • Bayou (greens and grays). 292.5 meters (10.5 inch foot and leg)
  • Desert Rose- (pinks, purple, dusty mustard/orange).  230.8 meters (8-9 in leg and 9.5 inch foot)

Marled Felici Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in White held double with Knit Picks Felici in the Bookshop, Rustic Cabin & Friendly Skies colorways
  • Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the body 
  • 6 skeins Felici + 12g of another to finish border. 634g of Brava worsted.
  • Border: sc around. hdc around. hdc through 3rd loop around. 
  • 32 inches wide x 48 inches long.
  • 2,505 Meters for Stash Dash

Mom’s Breezy Cover-Up

  • Pattern: Easy Breezy Swim Cover by Megan Shaimes (free on the Meg Made with Love Blog or ad-free for $3.50 on Etsy).
  • Yarn: Wool & The Gang Shiny Happy Cotton in the Turquoise Waters Colorway (~8.4 skeins used)
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Knit i-cord for belt. 3 sts with US 8 DPNs.
  • 1195.6 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Malabrigo Nube Roving

  • 113g combed top Merino wool
  • Colorway: 870 Candombe
  • Pre-drafting really helps. darkest dye sections are usually the most condensed. 

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • *7/14 update- 99 light gray. 80 dark gray- 179 total (of 260)- 81 left

Woolen Women Splash Pad Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers 80/20 SW Merino/Nylon Blend. Colorway: Into the Deep
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on Sunday July 10th beginning of Knitty Natty’s Sock Week. Check out her YouTube Channel if you haven’t already
  • Finished heel on Wednesday. Into the foot on Thursday.
  • You can still get your official logo bag and sock set on the Woolen Women Website

Brainstorming


Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay. Ravelry Link to Pattern. Blog Link. $6 US
“Designed to utilise all those leftovers that seem too small to be useful, but too precious to throw away, this blanket can be made in any size and with any yarn weight.Use your chosen

 From the Armchair

This Is My Brain In Love by I.W. Gregorio Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • A lady asked what I was knitting during the opening act of The Chicks concert. She said she’s an avid knitter too.
  • Helped a new hat knitter find needles in Michaels 
  • I received a text from my friend Laura’s pilates client, David, of his bright Felici Socks in his work pants/shoes in a conference room in summer. 

KAL News

#SplashPadParty22

  • Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link
    • Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
  • Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
  • View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
  • Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
  • Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Events

  • Summer Bingo hosted by Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast
    • Starts friday evening may 27, ends Mon Sept 5
    • Need to post a photo of completed Bingo with #CCRRsummerbingo2021 to Instagram or Ravelry
  • Sock Week with Knitty Natty. July 10-17th. I’ll be co-hosted an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern! If you paid for the option that includes this -you can watch the replay! 
  • Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year!
  • Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022
  • Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August.
  • Discord link: knit girllls discord
  • Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • The New York Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY will be held October 15 & 16, 2022

Life in Focus

I reviewed my: Word of the Year: Pause

Primary Goals:

  1. Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts. 
    • January: 19 workouts/4 weeks= 4.75 times per week.
    • February: 12 workouts/ 4 weeks= 3 per week
    • March: 13 workouts
    • April: 13 workouts
    • May: 8 workouts
    • June- 21 workouts
    • 86= divide by 26 weeks of the years- 3.3 
  2. Say Yes to time spent with Mom – that’s going well!
  3. Journaling. Major fail on journal except for tracking mom’s important health details, taking as many photos as I can, and doing my 1 line a day journal.

Ask Me Anything

Val asked if I’d seen any interesting wildlife on my walks lately. We have a new fawn in the yard. The hawks are especially loud! I found some interesting information on the Mass Audubon website. I think the ones near us are the Red-tailed hawks.

On a Happy Note

  • Laura’s visit. Pool day. Heidi’s for ice cream. Consignment shopping- where we scored, clothes, jewelry and a new/old mirror for our guest room which Dan hung this week. 
  • Zero Refills No waste store in Cohasset, MA.
  • Laura left Sunday of July 4th weekend. Dan and I worked around house Monday morning then enjoy the pool in the afternoon & dinner with fresh local corn with Mom and Dad. 
  • The Chicks concert with Mom, Dad, Jeff and Riley- tailgaiting, sneaking in my knitting & singing our lungs out! 
  • Trish’s 50th birthday at the Japanese Hibachi and pool day.
  • Dinner and pool night with Mom, Dad and Millie. Millie and I picked wild blueberries. I found necklaces that say Fearless for Mom, Riley, Millie and Me. 

Quote of the Week

One discovers the light in darkness, that is what darkness is for; but everything in our lives depends on how we bear the light. –JAMES BALDWIN

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_235_-_71522_1.53_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:12pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 234 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.

Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Love Letters Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL in the Love Letters Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Meters for Stash Dash= 232.6

Blue/Green/Yellow 3 ply handspun

  • Three Waters farm Fiber- Forested Hills Colorway (blues & greens). Three Waters Farm Corriedale- pulled out the blues/greens and yellows pulled from the Quintessence colorway.  Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blue.  
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Meters for Stash Dash= 464 

Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in the Peacock colorway (Main), Brava in the Dove Heather Colorway (gray), and Craft Smart Value Yarn in the Neon Yellow Colorway
  • Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the cast on & 6.0mm (I) for the body
  • I wanted a bobble edging (inspired by this blanket). I used this free blog tutorial for the bobble border.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Stash Dash Meters- 1,095.2

Psychedelic Sunset Felici Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Psychedelic Rainbow Colorway
  • Ravelry Page
  • Stash Dash Meters: 252.7

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Shawl Design 

  • Yarn: 150g skein of fingering weight from  agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk.
  • Pattern: in progress 
  • Update: I am not happy with how decreases are laying on the decrease side so I’ll rip back and redo.

Felici Socks (3 in progress) 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Baker Street Colorway (Ravelry Page), Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page) 

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 162 done of 260= 62% done. 

Malabrigo Nube Roving- Spinning Project

  • 113g combed top Merino wool
  • Colorway: 870 Candombe

Marled Felici Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in White held double with Knit Picks Felici in the Bookshop, Rustic Cabin & Friendly Skies colorways
  • Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the body 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Acquiring 2 bags of yarn from a friend moving on from knitting into quilting. Not sure what I can make out of her stash, but very much looking forward to giving that a go. 
  • I have all sorts of blanket mojo. If you do too, check out some of these charities excepting donations.

From the Armchair

The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

The Mother-In-Law by Sally Hepworth. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Some Years Later

I crocheted in 2018. Check out my Ravelry Project Page here. Pattern is the Easy Breezy Swim Cover by Megan Shaimes (free on the Meg Made with Love Blog or ad-free for $3.50 on Etsy).

Knitting in Passing

  • Millie called me to re-learn the purl but she knew how to do it after all.
  • While waiting for a train, a lady sat down and asked if this was the knitting bench. She pulled out a lime green dish cloth she brought with her to knit on while waiting for an appointment.
  • As I was getting off train the other day, a man asked when I was done crocheting what was my project going to be. He said he looked forward to seeing my progress if he sees me again. 

KAL News

#SplashPadParty22

  • Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link
    • Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
  • Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
  • View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
  • Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
  • Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Tune in to hear if you won a June Participation Prize!

Events

Stash Dash Update:

  • Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • Jasmin is 1700 meters ahead, but we still have 2 full months! I am planning to go to Rhinebeck and look forward to the satisfcation of having her hand over our Sash!

Life in Focus

  • Furious about the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe versus Wade? Check out this website Action For All (choice.crd.co). It is really easy to navigate website that gives options for where to donate, volunteer, protest, and to find access to healthcare including abortion including region specific links. 
  • I also invite you to check out the Earbuds Collective recommendations for podcasts on the topic of Abortion.

On a Happy Note

  • Dancing in the 40th Anniversary Recital & a fun after party.
  • Millie’s impromptu sleepover. pancakes and hike before heading to dad’s for Father’s Day
  • Father’s Day- too cold for a pool day, but we had fun inside playing games.
  • Carly’s bridal shower
  • Riley graduated 8th grade!.
  • Pool Day with Mom’s eBay friends + a few of our friends too.

Quote of the Week

Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see. –JOHN GREEN

Thank you for tuning in!

Direct download: Episode_234.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:45pm EDT

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 264.0 meters for Stash Dash
  • Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.
  • Don’t forget- Yarnable/Hypnotic Yarn is a Snack Shack Sponsor

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  •  238.0 meters for Stash Dash

Rainbow Crochet Crop

  • Pattern: 100% improvised.
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 482 g used. 719.7 meters for Stash Dash. 

3 ply yarn in Blues & Greens

  • Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. 
  • Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis. 
  •  Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues.
  • This 3 ply skein is 31 inches long from end to end, or 62 inches per wrap of the noddy noddy. 106 wraps= 6,572 inches or 166.9 meters for Stash Dash (because the fiber went through the orifice 4 times)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Shawl Design 

  • I shared some preliminary details about a new design idea using a 150g skein of fingering weight from  agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk colorway.

Meggsie/Marta Scrappy Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks FX in the Geranium Colors Colorway (leftover from Marta’s Socks) & Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway (leftover from Meggsie’s socks) + also added yarn from Aila’s dance socks.
  • Ravelry Project Page

Love Letters Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL in the Love Letters Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page

Felici Socks (4 in progress) 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Baker Street Colorway (Ravelry Page), Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page) Psychedelic Rainbow (Ravelry Page- used a Lemonade Shop yarn for heel) 

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • As of 6/14: 95 light gray, 27 dark gray – 112 total

Brainstorming

Stash Dash Planning

I’m brainstorming baby blanket options

  • Snuggle Bean Blanket by Little Duck Crochet available on Etsy Ravelry Link ($5 US)
  • Abacus Blanket by Susan Carlson available on LoveCrafts & Ravelry & Etsy ($6 US)
  • or maybe a simple corner to corner (C2C) crochet blanket?

From the Armchair

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

Kris’ Felici sock (Ravelry Project Page) blew out after just more than a year but keep in mind that Kris wears her socks daily from October- May and teaches dance in them.

In My Travels

I shared some stories about my recent trip to Ireland, Scotland and Spain. Patrons, don’t forget to check out the Patreon feed for blog posts, photos and a Google Album of my trip pictures.

KAL News

#SplashPadParty22

  • Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
    • Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link
    • Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
  • Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
  • View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
  • Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
  • Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

On this episode I talked about:

  • Thanks to everyone who joined our May 30th Kick Off.
  • Thursday June 23rd at 8p Eastern we’re doing another Zoom hangout for Patrons at the$5 level and up. Check out the details here.
  • Splash Pad ’22 logo bags are available from Woolen Women Fibers. Check out their knit kits here or sock sets here.  

Events

  • Sock Week with Knitty Natty. July 10-17th. I’ll be co-hosting an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern!
  • Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year!
  • Irocknitters KAL hosted by Cori (Irocknits Designs, also a Splash Pad Sponsor). Check out this post in her Ravelry Group. KAL runs from April 25th through June 30, 2022.
  • Woolen Women Fibers Rock It Tee KAL. Check out this post on Instagram for details. Runs May 7-July 30th.
  • Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022
  • Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August.

Stash Dash Update:

  • Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
  • Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc

On a Happy Note

  • Girls weekend with Kris and Laura. Got a cool embroidered art piece for our guest room which Mom and Dad got me for my birthday.
  • Birthday celebrations. Friday- kayaking with Mom, Dad and Dan. Beer out on the sandbar, local brewery, then ice cream and dinner with RGM. Sleepover at Mom’s. Pool day, lobsters. Kids bouncing on air mattress. Fake out with a small ice cream cake- which I have VERY strong feelings about. Kara’s kids- Emelie and Teddy. Em asked me if she could lick my cake. I thought she said Look AT my cake and I said SURE!

Quote of the Week

One does not ‘find oneself’ by pursuing one’s self, but on the contrary by pursuing something else and learning through some discipline or routine (even the routine of making beds) who one is and wants to be.

–May Sarton

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_233_-_61422_3.45_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 232 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns & Fibernymph Dye Works

Note- there will be only one episode in May 2022. Talk to you again in June (or join us May 30th for our Splash Pad Virtual Kick Off)

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mom’s Zen Socks 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Zen Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page

2 Tiny Turtles

  • Pattern: Little Miss Turtle by Diana Moore (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on the PinkMouseBoutique website)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis in various greens
  • Hook: B 2.25 m 
  • Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 1
  • Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 2

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Spinning:

  • Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool & Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis. 
  • Planning to ply these together with Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

Double Dog Dare Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page

Pumpkin Patch Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video.
  • Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.
    • 2 recent Unboxing Videos- check out April & May on YouTube.

Brainstorming

Shawl idea forming. Maybe a new design? Maybe a disaster? Time will tell.

From the Armchair

Knitting in Passing

  • My cousin Gayle gave me an antique darning egg that was her great grandmother’s. 
    • It appears to be a vintage white milk glass hand blown darning egg- similar to this one listed on eBay
  • Mom got us matching pink socks with sheep on them for upcoming Wool Festivals!

KAL News

Events

On a Happy Note

  • Scituate Salt Cave
    • I enjoyed the quiet time & guided meditation. I’m not sure I believe in the benefits of the salt and am especially skeptical that the website sites Dr. Oz as their source.
  • Morgen’s First Communion and A’s birthday dinner. 
  • I saw a local production of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with my cousins, my grandmother & my great aunt Florence as part of her 94th birthday celebration. She’s always wanted red leather pants. Her daughter Joanie bought them for her and she rocked them!
  • Savers trip with Mom! Always fun (and funny)
  • My cousin Bella’s performance as Fiona in Shrek the Musical
  • Our friend Liz’s surprise 30th Birthday- Star Wars Themed Party. The decorations were on point!
  • We have a new nephew- Zachary!
  • Mother’s Day at Mom’s.
  • My mom, Diane Lassonde, was on Episode 190 of the eBay for Business Podcast. Check it out!

Quote of the Week

Life will hit you hard in the face, wait for you to get back up just so it can kick you in the stomach. But getting the wind knocked out of you is the only way to remind your lungs how much they like the taste of air.– Sarah Kay

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_232_-_51122_12.19_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:30pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 231 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes check out: www.downcellarstudio.com/231 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Wordle

  • Pattern: Wordle by Ham & Eggs (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Peapod (Green), Loops & Thread Impeccable in True Gray, Rowan Purelife in Alder Buckthorn (Mustard), Red Heart Super Saver in White
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Directions tell you exactly how to make the format they show in the pattern or you can create your own. I chose to use one of the Riley’s actually Wordle days using a screenshot she sent me.
  • I did the bottom row as one strip instead of five squares. When I joined the columns, I ran a slipped stitch down the existing stitches to match where I seamed up the previous rows
  • I didn’t weave in any ends. I tucked them inside snd tied some of them together. I did one round of white to edge the front piece. Then seamed together the front and back together with sc with right sides facing out.
  • I made the back piece in gray. I dont think that’s what was called for in the pattern.
  • He has safety eyes and two little white arms.
  • Riley is calling him Stove- after the winning word I based it on. She wants me to embroider STOVE on the back so we don’t forget his name

Perry’s Hat

  • Pattern:Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
  • Yarn: Berroco Vintage in the Dungaree Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • I realized i don’t do all the decreases correctly. I work them every other round until the end. 

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket

  • Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
  • Hook: 10 mm (N/P) hook
  • Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick- Solids, Stripes and Prints (colorways used, Wheat, Seaglass, Slate, Fern, Coney Island and 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • My hexagons are 3 rounds each- 2 with color (earth tones, mostly gray/blue/green), last round with Wheat. 

Brainstorming

I’m looking for a necktie pattern to knit up for my friend Liz. She’d like one with a squared off bottom (not the V bottom)

From the Armchair

Weaving the Rainbow written by George Ella Lyon & illustrated by Stephanie Anderson-Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link

 If you’re looking for a great book for a child in your life- check this out. It’s beautiful!

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Some Years Later

April 2015- I knit the sample for my Trickle Shawl pattern.Ravelry LinkLoveCrafts Link. $5 US Knitting Pattern 

Knitting in Passing

  • Riley wore her Everyday Cardigan in Merino Number 5 by Loopy Mango. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Aila love her A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers My Ravelry Project Page
  • I shared a story about knitting with Eme’s roommate Zi.

In My Travels

  • Visit to the Berkshires with the kiddos for Riley, Aila & Eme’s birthdays
  • We visited Hancock Shaker Village
    • Baby animal petting through May 8, 2022
  • Riley, Aila and Eme wanted to record a bit to tell you about our adventures.

KAL News

Splash Pad Party ’22 

  • Official Rules- Google Doc
  • Participant Sign Up- Google Form
  • Check out our Sponsors- Google Doc
  • Want to be a Sponsor? Please email me before 5/5- downcellarstudio at gmail dot com

On a Happy Note

  • Date night with Dan the local Brewery.
  • Day trip to Visit Eme. Dan drove. I knit on the way there and then was motion sick the whole way home!
  • Easter!
  • Ihecked out nail salon near my house and they were great.
  • Dinner with Mom, Dad & Mom’s eBay friends. 

Quote of the Week

“Sometimes magic is just someone spending more time on something than anyone else might reasonably expect.” 

-Raymond Joseph Teller

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_231_-_42922_10.00_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:22pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 230 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out show notes with photos on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Kim’s Christmas Stocking

  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! 
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: G (4.00 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Various Fingering Weight leftovers including Knit Picks Felici
  • Needles: US 1 5(2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Kris’ birthday socks 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Berocco Sox in the Rosehearty colorway 
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Eme’s Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi free crochet pattern by Anitha Domacin available on their website.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in white and various other colors. Small bit of silver metallic yarn from Stash
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Pumpkin Patch Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video.
  • Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.

Perry’s Hat 

  • Pattern:Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
  • Yarn: Berroco Vintage in the Dungaree Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Spinning:

  • Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. 
    • Spun one braid. I have one more to go.
  • Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis. 
  • Planning to ply these together with Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues. Already plied some of this with two other singles. 

Riley’s Christmas Cardigan

  • Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
  • Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

In My Travels

  • Tune in to hear about our trip to Newport, Rhode Island for my cousin’s wedding 
  • We enjoyed a visit to Newport Vineyards for cocktail hour Friday night.
  • We got breakfast at Diego’s on Saturday morning. Tip: get a reservation and order the Diego’s Huevos
  • I wore a fabulous dress I got second hand at the Second 2 None Consignment Shop in Hanover, MA

KAL News

  • Splash Pad Party ’22 Call for Sponsors!
  • Sponsor Call: Deadline 4/25/22
  • Want to sign up (after you read the details)? Please fill out this Google Form
  • Info Page for Sponsors on my Website- click here 
  • Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon

Events

Ask Me Anything

I received a couple questions asking about how Mom is doing after her lung cancer diagnosis in December 2021. Tune in for more. You can also check out the video we shared in March, if you want to hear/see more.

On a Happy Note

  • My friend Laura came for a visit. We celebrated our friend Kris’ birthday with shopping and dinner.
  • I went for my annual physical and mammogram! PSA- don’t put off those doctor’s appointments. It’s important.
  • I am enjoying the signs of Spring!
  • Went for mani pedis with Mom and Trish
  • My Cousin’s Wedding in Newport!
  • I booked weekend getaway with Riley and Aila for their 14th and 13th birthdays. 
  • Wordle text chat with my family

Quote of the Week

Learning how to be still, to REALLY be still and let life happen- that stillness becomes radiance.

-Morgan Freeman 


Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

 

 

Direct download: Episode_230_-_41322_4.32_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 229 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: The Yarn Sellar. Check out their Fiber Marketplace on Saturday 4/9/22 in York Beach Maine!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Kris’ Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz  Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel

Blue Kamakaze Socks

  • Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway.
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry.
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Various Fingering Weight leftovers including Knit Picks Felici
  • Needles: US 1 5(2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Eme’s Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi free crochet pattern by Anitha Domacin available on their website.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in white and various other colors. Small bit of silver metallic yarn from Stash
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Pumpkin Patch Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video.
  • Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.

Sagamore Flyover Cowl

  • Pattern: in draft
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Sugarbush Dawson in the Graphite Gray Colorway- 50% Llama/50% Merino 100 grams, 151 meters
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Ribbing, mistake rib used in my Sagamore Flyover Hat pattern.

Kim’s Christmas Stocking

From the Armchair

Some Years Later

March 11. 2022 was our 10 year podcast anniversary! THANK YOU to everyone who has listened, told a friend, left a review, purchased a pattern, joined my Patreon group, participated in a KAL. THANK YOU! I’m so appreciative.

Crafty Adventures

I helped Millie (age 10) with a craft kit: Mini Garden Unicorn- Amazon Affiliate Link

Knitting in Passing

  • I was gifted yarn from Megg in Ireland: Hedgehog Fibres– Sock Yarn (90% Merino, 10% nylon) in the Crush colorway. Pinks from light to magenta with yellows, oranges and royal blues.
  • My niece Millie received yarn from the nurse at her school whose daughter had taken up knitting and then given it up.
  • I ordered needles for Millie and cast on a cowl she wants to knit with the skein of yarn from A Hundred Ravens at Russell’s Garden Center Farm Fiber Days at the beginning of March.

KAL News

  • Splash Pad Party ’22 Call for Sponsors!
  • Sponsor Call: Deadline 4/25/22
  • Want to sign up (after you read the details)? Please fill out this Google Form
  • Info Page for Sponsors on my Website- click here
  • Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon

Life in Focus

  • Thanks to Nikki for telling us about the Hiking Project App (available for Apple & Android)
  • I shared an update on my plan to incorporate 20 min of movement/4 times per week into my life and a check in on my word for the year PAUSE.

Ask Me Anything

  • Tune in to hear more about killing acrylic. Check out this blog post from Sew Homey who found using a hair dryer to flatten acrylic worked best.

On a Happy Note

  • Something Rotten Musical
  • Garret’s birthday sleepover
  • St. Patrick’s Day with my cousins
  • Tom visiting from Ireland
  • A weeknight sleepover with Riley, Garret & Millie. Snuggles and reading Ply magazine from Suzanne during the kids’ reading time before bed.
  • Oscar party
  • Dress shopping with Mom
  • Immersive Frida Exhibit in Boston with Melissa

Quote of the Week

Poet May Sarton on the importance of rest:
“I always forget how important the empty days are, how important it may be sometimes not to expect to produce anything, even a few lines in a journal. A day when one has not pushed oneself to the limit seems a damaged, damaging day, a sinful day. Not so! The most valuable thing one can do for the psyche, occasionally, is to let it rest, wander, live in the changing light of a room.”

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_229_-_33122_10.28_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:58pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 228 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos check out my website by clicking here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Megg’s 40th Birthday Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn in Raspberry Cream Colorway (from my Yarnable February 2022 Subscription Box). Check out my YouTube Unboxing Video here

Unicorn for Millie’s 10th Birthday

  • Pattern: Unicorn Amigurumi by Amy Faulkner 4.90 Euros. About $5.50 crochet pattern (US & UK terms) Available on Etsy.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver (white). Knit Picks Brava Worsted Minis (tail & mane)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Bunny fix

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Best Bunny by Tamie Oldridge. Free crochet pattern from Lion Brand. Available as a PDF directly- click here.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Berrocco Vintage in purple. Repaired with Knit Picks Brava Worsted 
  • Knit in October 2016

Milly Doll Makeover

  • Pattern: Mary, Millie & Morgan by Susan B. Anderson
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Knit in 2015. 
  • 7 years later she’s getting a makeover. 

Garret’s Nana Blanket

  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Hook: I (5.5. mm)
  • Yarn: likely Red Heart Super Saver
  • Fixing Garret’s Nana blanket. I shared more on a blog post on my Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
  • I used the Crumpled Griddle stitch, which I believe is what my Nana used, to redo the side panel that I ripped back.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Blue Kamakaze Socks

  • Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway. 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz  Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel

Pumpkin Patch Socks

  • Pattern: TBD
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Kim’s Christmas Stocking

  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here. 
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: G (4.00 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

2022 Fun with Fiber

  • Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece (light blues, dark blues and whites)
  • Check them out on Facebook
  • Check out my Ravelry Project Page
  • Mom’s tried on Jessica’s Shift Cowl- pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry available for $7 on Ravelry. I might turn some handspun into this project.

Brainstorming

Inspired by PliedYarnCo’s Instagram post- this Log Cabin Pillow. Check out this free pattern “Little Log Cabins Recipe” on their website.

From the Armchair

Love is Blind Season 1 on Netflix

Some Years Later

  • Mezzo Cardigan by Alexis Winslow. $9 US Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry or directly from their website.
  • Knit in March/April 2018
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Can’t really wear it with a coat but I do wear it several times a season in fall/winter/early spring. Add some fun jewelry, leggings, heels. great for a date night. Great for chilly winter day when you just want to be wrapped up in many layers!
  • Caesious by Hunter Hammersen
  • Curls: Versatile, Wearable Wraps to Knit at Any Gauge- book details on the Pantsville Press website.
  • Knit Feb-April 2015
  • My project notes do not say, but think I used close to/all of fingering weight skein and yet it wasn’t big enough to wrap around my neck and stay put.
  • In the end, I frogged it to use the yarn for something else.

Knitting in Passing

Stephanie @farmsteadknits on Instagram sent mom a very special car package including a pair of handknit socks & a shawl. Shawl pattern: Around Every Corner by Stephanie Lotven (tellybeanknits). Check out Stephanie’s Ravelry Project Page for full details. Yarn: Sea Panda Yarn- click here for their website. Looks like their Blue Lagoon Mini Set.

In My Travels

Russell's Garden Center- March 2022 Farm Fiber Days Event
  • Purchases-
    • Fibery Jewels Teal Speckle Sock Yarn
    • 4 oz of Falkland Fiber Jewels Spots
    • 2 skeins of Lillian from Dirty Water Dyeworks- in Mediterranean and Sea Breeze
    • Subito Farms yarn for Millie- pink yarn gradient set- 35 yards each pf the pinks and 90 yards natural- 100% cormo raised in Montana, dyed in MA
    • A Hundred Ravens for Millie- Vanir 100% merino DK in the Fantasia Colorway
  • Lunch across the street at The Local afterwards
 
Visited The Goodwill Bins location in Hudson, NH.

Life in Focus

  • Checked off another item on my 22 for 2022 list- check out new trail. I’ve also done yoga several times in March- towards my goal of doing yoga every month. 

On a Happy Note

  • Garret had a scare with appendicitis but didn’t need emergency surgery!
  • Booked basics of our trip to Ireland, Scotland and Barcelona.
  • Millie’s Birthday Weekend
  • Dinner in an igloo with a tiki theme
  • Decorated for Easter 

Quote of the Week

People pay for what they do, and still more, for what they have allowed themselves to become. And they pay for it very simply: by the lives they lead.

–James Baldwin

Direct download: Episode_228_-_31522_3.12_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 227 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website- click here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi free crochet pattern by Anitha Domacin available on their website.
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in white and various other colors. Small bit of silver metallic yarn from Stash
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Blue Kamakaze Socks

  • Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway. 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol

Kim’s Christmas Stocking

  • Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here. 
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: G (4.00 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

Check out this Granny Square Chain. It’s a free Crochet pattern from Homemade@MyPlace

From the Armchair

The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • I met my cousin Chris’ fiancee’s grandmother who will soon be 98 years old. She told me she used to knit and crochet.
  • I found some lovely handkerchiefs at my Mom’s. I think some of the edges were trimmed by my grandmother and my great-aunt Rachel.

In My Travels

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’21: is officially over! WOW!

278 on Roster this Season

  • 135 people earned 1-25 entries
  • 66 people earned 26-50 entries
  • 58 people got between 51-100 entries
  • 14 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes. 
  • Only 5 did not post any points. 

Pigskin ’21 Teams & Conferences

  • Our Teams were Part of 2 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Wendy) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Jen)
  • Llama Conference won- 508,420 points
  • Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with 456,414 points
  • Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 2- Llamaste- 62,849
  • 2nd Place goes to : Team 10- International Llamas- 50,896
  • In 3rd Place from the Alpaca Conference is: Team 24 Suri Longnecks- 50,721!

Congrats to all of our players and teams! Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize or one of our 10 GRAND PRIZES!

Ask Me Anything

How do you knit for Massachusetts winters (Elisa.knits)

  • Layers!
  • Worsted weight hats and shawls.
  • Make fingerless mitts or mittens. Purchase gloves if you prefer those and the idea of making them doesn’t sound appealing.

Which fiber did you spin with when you began to spin (kmac0107)

  • Corriedale. Highly recommend!

What do you want to hear “my name winning a prize? Smile- Mom updates that you are willing to share” (javajennie) & related question “How’s Mom doing? Sending good vibes her way “(bayoumamaLA)

On a Happy Note

  • Random dance parties during Ski weekend.
  • I only fell once skiing in two days!
  • Sharing IPAs with my brother.
  • So much fun with Snapchat filters. Millie made everyone participate.
  • I got to see my friend Laura’s new apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
  • My cousin’s fiancee’s bridal shower. 
  • Visiting with my former boss & totally losing track of time. 

Quote of the Week

“You don’t have a right to the cards you believe you should have been dealt with. You have an obligation to play the hell out of the ones you’re holding and my dear one, you and I have been granted a mighty generous one.”-Cheryl Strayed

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_227_-_22822_7.50_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:55pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 226 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Dotted Rays

  • Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry  for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • The sleeves were too long so I ripped back after the cuff, then did the kitchener stitch in the round to reattach to the sleeve. 
  • Check out this video I used to learn how to do the Kitchener Stitch in the Round
  • Vlog January 29 & 30th – shared a little bit of the process.

Fear Less Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Emma’s Yarn Practically Perfect Sock in the Knit & Stitch Colorway
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Story about the yarn: Shortly after my cousin Gayle listened to E222 that I recorded with mom where we talked about her cancer diagnosis, she was out running an errand and the only parking spot she could find was directly in front of a yarn shop. She took it as a sign and asked for something local that would be good for socks. 
  • Knit & Stitch Boutique in Cocoa Village, FL
  • I stitched Fear & Less just before the toes on each sock using stranded color work and a basic chart I made in Excel.

Boujee New Years Socks

Ball Band Cozy

  • Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts). 
  • Yarn: Aqua- Lion Brand re-up. Green- other kitchen cotton of unknown origin
  • Hook:
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Citrus Hat

  • Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Zen Colorway
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Size: Adult small which is 96 sts. 20″ circumference but I know from experience this cast on count should work. 
  • 2×2 rib then a 6×2 rib
  • Stripes- blues, greens, grays. 
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Gift for my brother’s 40th birthday!

Heart Garland

  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern available on this blog)
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Knitters Brewing Company Brewski Worsted
  • Gift for my friend Liz.

Mom’s Card Heart Garland 

  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern available on this blog)
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted & other worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash- blues, greens, yellows, white and silver. 
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Gift for Mom for all of the cards she’s received recently.

 February Yarnable Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Raspberry Creme Colorway (February Yarnable Subscription Box colorway)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Garret’s Nana Blanket

Caribbean Blue Handspun Cowl- frogged

  • Yarn: Handpun made with Merino Fiber from Beesy Bee Fibers on Etsy in Caribbean Hues Colorway. 5 colors greens/blues. 3 ply yarn
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5)
  • Pattern: None- playing around with stitch pattern for potential design. didn’t love it. 
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
  • Finished first sock!

Brainstorming

  • Check out this video from Ysolda on Instagram. It shows how you don’t need to start with a slip knot to start a long-tail cast on and how that can help you avoid that extra little bump of fabric that slip knot creates. Mind blown!
  • Millie’s birthday gifts.
    • Tip: Warm water and white vinegar worked perfectly to get slime off a commercial stuffed animal. It removed the thick, crusted on slime from her handmade but still left a bit of a pink color cast on them.

From the Armchair

The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

  • Kris legwarmer sock. It fits. Now that I know that, I can make second. 
  • Knitting at local brewery turned into a conversation!
  • Finished up my Ice Time Hat Class.
  • I visited Staci’s Stitches for the Hypnotic Yarn trunk show last weekend.

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’21:

The Pigskin Party is officially over. Thank you to all of you who made it such a huge success! I will announce all of the rest of the winners on Episode 227 at the end of February!

Contest, News & Notes

On a Happy Note

  • We got about 2 feet of snow in 1 storm during the last weekend in January
  • Decorating my very boring laptop shell with stickers
  • Netflix Series: The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window
  • Mom’s birthday. Sleepover. Spa day. Shopping lunch. Dinner. Presents every couple hours. So much fun!
  • Some good news at mom’s recent appointment with her Oncologist.
  • My brother Jeff’s birthday fun at Dave and Busters. 
  • Rachel kindly sent me a gift card to try out Silk and Sonder monthly journal. 
  • Wordle– I’m enjoying it! Are you?

Quote of the Week

“What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.”~ Albert Pike

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_226_-_21522_11.32_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:10pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 225 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.

Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In My Travels
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Winter Carnival Hat

  • Pattern: Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher
  • Yarn: Hedgehog Fibers Merino DK in Genie (multicolored), Pachamama’s Alpacas Trixie & Preston Sport (natural), Spunky Eclectic Victoria (100% Polworth) in Sky (Blue) & Ginko (Green)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 5 (3.75 mm)
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Costume Party Socks

  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Plied 2 skeins of yarn:

  • Three Waters Fiber- Forested Hills Colorway- 4 ozs. Split into 3rds but didn’t weigh anything.
  • Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway
  • Washed it but I still need to measure, weight etc. 
  • Check out my Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
  • Finished the first sock

Emma’s Yarn Socks

Boujee New Years Socks

Dotted Rays

  • Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry  for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

2022 Fun with Fiber

  • Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece (light blues, dark blues and whites)
  • Liz from Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works very kindly sent this braid, and a few others, for me to try out.
  • Check them out on Facebook
  • 1 bobbin full. Started second. 
  • Check out my Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Crafty Adventures

  • Taught Millie how to make pom poms to make them into little doggies. She didn’t finish but we got the basics of 2 pom poms done. 

Knitting in Passing

  • I lost my new ski hat in NH but thankfully was able to find it.
  • Riley got her sweater project back and knit on that during sleepover at my parents and then on our ski trip. Millie brought her cowl and knit a bit in the car… and then per usual got car sick. 
  • Millie wore a granny square jacket mom made for me when I was little, out to dinner the other night! It looks super cute on her. 
  • My friend Laura sends me photos of her feet, warm and cute in her handknit socks which makes me so happy! Now my friend Megg has started doing that too. It’s a fun little game.
    • Check out my Reel. Use the Hashtag. Share your knits. Encourage your loved ones to play along too! 
    • #knitgiftwearshare
  • I picked up a bottle of wine for big storm this weekend and received a nice compliment on my Felici Hat. Aran weight slouchy hat I knit out of Duck Duck Wool in the Summer Sidewalk Colorway. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.

In My Travels

  • Tune in to hear a story of our ski trip to Loon Mountain in New Hampshire. PSA: Please wear a helmet!
  • Patrons, check out the Patreon feed for a video vlog from that weekend!

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Tune in to hear if you’re a December Participation Winner

Life in Focus

Tune in to hear an update on my Goals for 2022 and my 22 for 2022 list.

On a Happy Note

  • Encanto on Disney Plus. Riley made us a popcorn/candy bar! 
  • Liz & Millie playing guitars
  • I got to see Millie’s last session of gymnastics for the season.
  • Meeting up with my friend Melissa and her daughter for lunch. 
  • We bought a book called “Mom Tell Me Your Stories” from Savers. It’s a book where you can document answers to questions about your Mom’s life.  Riley and Millie are into it. We spent an hour Sunday morning asking Mom questions.
  • Dan bought me a cool new contraption so I can make hot coffee when we go camping.
  • Dan surprising me with dinner one night and lunch another day when my week was really hectic.
  • Not so great- Millie & Mom getting Covid. Happy note- Mom was chosen in the lottery to get monoclonal antibody infusion!
  • Snow is coming! 

Quote of the Week

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.”

—Mark Twain

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_225_-_12922_10.02_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 224 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Click here for full show notes & photos on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Perry’s Vase Cozy

Ripped back and repaired toe of Mom’s Patons Kroy Deep End Socks. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

2022 Fun with Fiber

Citrus Hat

  • Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Zen Colorway
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Size: Adult small which is 96 sts. 20″ circumference but I know from experience this cast on count should work. 
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Dotted Rays

  • Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry  for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Winter Carnival Hat

  • Pattern: Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher
  • Yarn: Hedgehog Fibers Merino DK in Genie (multicolored), Pachamama’s Alpacas Trixie & Preston Sport (natural), Spunky Eclectic Victoria (100% Polworth) in Sky (Blue) & Ginko (Green)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 5 (3.75 mm)
  • Size: Adult Medium
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Emma’s Yarn Socks

Bayou Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Bayou Colorway
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • New Years Eve cast on based on ones you all selected on Instagram
  • Want to try Knit Picks? Please consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol

Brainstorming

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Finished before the last episode. Blocked it again and the sleeves are too long. 
  • I am going to wash and block again, but there’s a 95% chance I’ll be ripping back the sleeves by a good 4-5 inches. 

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Updates for this episode:

  • December Interception Winner: Congrats to sarahkatsq for Post #10. Thanks to Natalie for hosting the Cozy Up Interception
  • No Interception in January 
  • Monthly Scavenger Hunt (January clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
  • KAL ends on February 14, 2022

Life in Focus

Word of the Year: Pause

  • Pause: take a time out. Breathe. Relax. Be present. 
  • Pause: put obligations that you may no otherwise, on hold and reprioritize. 
  • Pause: savor the moment. Cherish it. Freeze time if only for a second.
  • Pause: I want the cancer to pause. To stop, if only for awhile, to give us some more time. I know it won’t be forever but I am putting energy into this pause. 
  • Pause: a period or time free from engagement
  • Pause: take a breather
  • Pause: take five
  • Pause- and connect. connect my feelings. connect with others. 

Primary Goals:

  • Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts. 
  • Say Yes to time spent with Mom. Call often. Visit once a week, more if possible. Say yes to things that involve her unless it’s interferes with my own mental health or need for rest.
  • Journal about each day of this year. I can write about things a day or two later if need be, but I do want to keep a record. I do want to pause and reflect on things are they happen this year. 

22 for 2022 List

Check out this episode of Happier with Gretchen Rubin to hear more about this project.

  1. Go Skiing (from 2021)
  2. Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)
  3. Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
  4. Read 22 novels 
  5. Go to an art museum 
  6. Buy something a little extravagant 
  7. Meet with financial planner about new investments.
  8. Do at least 1 yoga video per month
  9. Kayak at one new place
  10. Create the collage wall in my studio
  11. Visit Eme at school
  12. Try out the new trail on Grove Street
  13. 2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
  14. Purge & declutter the secretary
  15. Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
  16. Take a vacation/staycation before August 
  17. Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings
  18. Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed
  19. Hire a professional photographer for family photos
  20. Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
  21. Go Apple Picking
  22. Hang a calendar in the diningroom

On a Happy Note

  • Quiet New Year’s Eve at home, with Covid all around us. Homemade popcorn, cold craft beer, and Lupin on Netflix.
  • I got a text from my cousin Joanie. Her mom, my Aunt Florence has been struggling to make pom poms for the hats she’s been knitting. I showed her early in December how to use the Clover pom pom maker I bought her, but she was still a bit stuck. Joanie’s daughters helped her make the pom poms! They came out great! Love a good family project.
  • January 2: Nora Ephron Day. Started with You’ve Got Mail, found a Nora Ephron documentary Everything is Copy on HBO Max, then proceeded to watch Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally.
  • Getting silly videos of my niece Hattie in Ireland
  • My January Yarnable Box! Check out the video on my YouTube Channel
  • Yoga with Adriene: Move- A 30 Day Yoga Journey. Check out the Playlist on YouTube. I’ve done 4 so far. 
  • SNOW! We got a good 7-8 inches and it was beautiful. 
  • Fun dinner, post-Christmas but still exchanging gifts with friends, and Yahtzee playing game night at Mom’s last Saturday. 
  • I’ve kept my succulent alive for 1 whole year!
  • Started teaching my Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches this week. I won’t be teaching again this year, but I will keep you posted if that changes.
  • An impromptu dinner and game night at mom’s this Thursday.

Quote of the Week

New Year- new verse, new chapter, or just the same old story? Ultimate we write it. The choice is ours. 

-Alex Morritt.

Direct download: Episode_224_-_11422_3.24_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:44pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 223 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes and photos check out my website. www.downcellarstudio.com/223 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mermaid Tail Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Crochet Squirrel

  • Pattern: Crochet Squirrel by Junuen Lisunia (free crochet pattern on Ravelry)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic from stash in light brown and dark brown
  • Ravelry Project Page

Among Us- Blue

  • Pattern- Among Us Amigurumi by Tiffany Horton- free crochet pattern available on her website or $2.50
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Ravelry Page shows Among Us Characters alive and dead (dead is when they have a bone exposed) and with a crown. But the “without a bone” and “crown” instructions are not actually included in the PDF. See below for option that has the bone.

Among Us- Yellow with Bone

  • Pattern- Among Us Amigurumi Dead Version by Tiffany Horton- available free on her website
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic Yarn from Stash- in Yellow
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Camp Out Fingerless Mitts

  • Pattern: Camp Out Fingerless Mitts by tante ehm- Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Yarn: Fully Spun Sock Yarn in the Blue Hole Colorway (blue) with a strand of fingering weight Corriedale handspun yarn.
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Mom’s Christmas Headband

  • Pattern: 108-18 Knitted Hair Band by DROPS Design. Free Pattern available from DROPS website & on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Fully Spun Sock Yarn in the Blue Hole Colorway (blue) with a strand of fingering weight Corriedale handspun yarn.
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Riley’s Christmas Cardigan

  • Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
  • Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern calls for Seed Stitch but I’m just using the basic instructions and using cables and ribbing for the body/sleeves. 
  • For the front bands I did HDC through back/front loop.

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • I purchased, for the first time, the complete set of Knit Picks Felici. 10 colorways. 1 50g ball each (I subsequently ordered another set). Considering purchasing from Knit Picks? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link
  • Designs- when I have a bit more mental bandwidth…
  • We found my grandmothers rugmaking supplies at Mom’s house. Need to do some googling! 
  • Spinning.

From the Armchair

2021 Knitting in Review

90 finished knit/crochet projects

  • 2 cardigans
  • 5 tops
  • 19 toys
  • 5 shawls
  • 24 pairs of socks
  • 4 headbands
  • 1 pair of mitts
  • 1 knitted tree decoration
  • 1 Christmas stocking
  • 12 hats
  • 7 blankets
  • 2 jar cozies
  • 7 garlands

Spinning- 4 projects, 11 skeins, 1,686 yards of Yarn (8 spinning projects in 2020 but they were smaller)

Crochet- 38 projects. Knitting 52 projects

Click here for a link to my 2021 Ravelry Projects Tab.

Some Years Later

In July, I gifted my niece Gabriella a teddy bear crochet with Bernat Velvet yarn. She bumped her lip on the way over for a Christmas visit and grabbed her bear for comfort so they brought it with them. Lots of ends sticking out. I took a cable needle and shoved them back in and she looked pretty great after that!

Gabriella’s Velvet Bear

Crafty Adventures

  • Making banana ice cream with Garret. We use this recipe.
  • Making Pizzelles- tasted delicious but looked kind of crumby but confectionary sugar hides many sins. 

Knitting in Passing

  • During a recent sleepover, Millie wanted help with a knitting project and per usual she claimed she didn’t remember how to knit, but when she sat down and started, she picked right up where she left off. We have learned though that she does not enjoy bamboo needles so I need to work on getting her a short circular, metal needle replacement for the cowl she’s working on.
  • Riley’s current project is a cowl from Lion Brand in a fun color changing yarn. It turned out a bit too big and so instead, she wants to make it into a top for Millie. She’s learned to make i-cord to use for straps and we’ll sew those on when she’s done.

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

  • Monthly Scavenger Hunt (December clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
  • December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.

Life in Focus

Starting my annual Year in Review process. I shared about this last year on my YouTube Channel. Check out that video here

Tune in to hear how I did with my 21 for 2021 list. Hear more about these lists on the Happier Podcast w/ Gretchen Rubin

I also reviewed my Word of the Year and primary goals for 2021.

Ask Me Anything

  • Shana “Savers, duh!”- Check out the Christmas Thrifting Video on my YouTube Channel.
  • Marilynknits- “Could you talk about you learned to crochet? I think you probably already shared but I forget. Maybe you could also share a source for your favorite crochet tutorials. I am learning how to crochet!”
  • knit_read_sleep: “How the cling wrap game works. That looked so fun”- tune in to hear my description & check out our video of the Cling Wrap Game Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
  • francesgiff-knitting plans for 2022
    • Handspun garment
    • A new hat for me.
    • Spinning
    • I want to make more garlands for my house. Christmas themed one would be fun. 
  • Genna-with-a-gee: “What are you best methods for having a successful year? Keeping low stress?”
    • Build habits that get you headed where you want to go. Figure out not just what you’re aiming for but concrete steps of when, where, how you’ll do things to move in that direction.
    • Be grateful. Look for the good things happening around you and you’ll find those.
    • Remember that life isn’t all good. It’s a mix. We’re supposed to be sad, angry, overwhelmed. Personally I don’t find it useful to try to find a way out of that. Experience it. Lean in, and then…when it feels like it could pass, move on. Try to move back towards more positive emotions. 

On a Happy Note

  • Thank you for all of your kind notes, comments, cards etc after we announced last episode that Mom is battling lung cancer. We truly appreciate it. After a grueling experience with the special pharmacy, Mom has finally started her gene therapy treatment. 
  • Visiting with Maria who was visiting from Barcelona. Check out the Day 17 Vlogmas Video  to see the treats my friend Marta and her sons sent over for Dan and me.
  • Thrifting with Mom & the kids followed by a 4 kid sleepover.Check out the Day 18 & 19 Vlogmas Video for more. Patrons, check out your Patreon feed for an even longer video with lots more highlights and funny moments from the kids.
  • In addition to fun pancakes- we also scored a sea themed waffle maker at Savers so we made Dolphin, Seahorse and Crab waffles!
  • Babysitting my niece Gabriella.
  • Singing Christmas Carols by the fire even if it was freezing outside! 
  • A quieter Christmas Eve than we planned that turned into a lovely night.
  • Christmas Day with our families. So much fun and laughter. Check out Vlogmas videos for more.  
  • Continued adventures with Helen- the mannequin head- we discussed on the last episode. Millie and Dan got into hijinks on Christmas!

Quote of the Week

“Satisfaction is always available. It is just not always looked for. If, when you enter any experience, you enter with curiosity, respect and interest you will emerge enriched and with awareness you have been enriched. Awareness of enrichment is what satisfaction is.” 

-Ann Hastings

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_223_-_123121_11.34_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:40am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 222 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/222 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Charlie, Candy, Alicia, Rachel, Rainah, Luanne & Beth

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Aila Grace Shawl 

  • Pattern: Aila Grace by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Into the Whirled Gloucester Sock in the Ramble Colorway (oranges, reds, pinks, purples)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out Day 10 of my Vlogmas Videos to see the shawl after blocking.

Gnomes of the Gnorth

  • Pattern: Gnomes of the Gnorth by Sue Perez (free crochet pattern on Ravelry & website). Video tutorial available on YouTube.
  • Hook: B
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz  Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel

Mermaid Tail Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Riley’s Christmas Cardigan

  • Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
  • Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Sweet Bobby Podcast– 6 part investigative series about a woman’s experience with being Catfished in England. 

Some Years Later

In July of 201, I knit Mom a pair of socks out of scraps of Knit Picks Felici. I washed them with a large batch of socks this week and both have holes in the heels. Click here for the Ravelry Project Page. At least 1-2 other pairs in this batch were knit before 2017 and they look great.

Crafty Adventures

  • Mom & I did some Christmas baking with Riley and Millie.
  • We made Snickerdoodles, Blondies and no-bake protein bites with oats, peanuts and chocolate chips. 
  • Decorating the tree together.
  • I talked on the last episode about getting wool strips of fabric from Dan’s friend’s mother. In this episode I chat with Mom about supplies my Nana might have for braided rugs.

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Updates in this episode

  • Monthly Scavenger Hunt (December clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
  • Tune in to hear the winner of the November Interception Challenge.
  • Tune in to hear November Interception Winners.
  • December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.

Life in Focus

Diane, Jen’s Mom, shared the troubling news of her lung cancer diagnosis. Click here for more information about this cancer that’s caused by an EGFR mutation.

On a Happy Note

  • Riley & Millie’s Christmas Panto
  • Jenny & the Pajamas
  • Helen! 
  • Vlogmas– check out the playlist on my YouTube Channel.
  • Out supportive friends, family & medical professionals.
  • Getting the Christmas wrapping done quickly with Dan’s help.

Quote of the Week

“Life will break you. Nobody can protect you from that, and being alone won’t either, for solitude will also break you with its yearning. You have to love. You have to feel. It is the reason you are here on earth. You have to risk your heart. You are here to be swallowed up. And when it happens that you are broken, or betrayed, or left, or hurt, or death brushes too near, let yourself sit by an apple tree and listen to the apples falling all around you in heaps, wasting their sweetness. Tell yourself that you tasted as many as you could.”

-Louise Erdrich

Thank you for tuning in.
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_222_-_121521_4.30_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:07pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 221 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.

Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing 
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Queen City Yarns. Use the code TOUCHDOWN to save 25% off all in stock items now thru Dec 15. Advent Calendars are not included.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Little Frog

  • Pattern: Little Frog Toy by by Yulia Klyushina ($2.60 US crochet pattern) Available on Ravelry & Etsy
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in the Alfalfa Colorway (green) + white acrylic worsted yarn from stash
  • Eyes: from 6060 on Etsy- similar to these.

Sweet & Sour Socks

  • Yarn: hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet & Sour colorway 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page 

Christmas Stocking for Peyton

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red, Red Heart Super Saver Solids in Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Crochet Christmas Tree

  • Pattern: None
  • Yarn: White Acrylic Worsted Weight Yarn, Red Heart Scrubby Sparkle in the Marshmallow Colorway, Caron Simply Soft Party in the Snow Sparkle Colorway
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Dance Shoe Legwarmers

  • Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz  Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol

Mermaid Tail Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Aila Grace Shawl 

  • Pattern: Aila Grace by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Into the Whirled Gloucester Sock in the Ramble Colorway (oranges, reds, pinks, purples)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Indie GAL patterns I purchased during Sale:
  • Stocking for my cousin Chris’ fiancée 
  • I was given a lot of wool fabric in 1-2 inch strips. What should I use them for? Braided rug? weaving? Punch needle? 

From the Armchair

  1. Soundtracks by Jon Acuff. Started 10/31. Bookshop Affiliate LinkAmazon Affiliate Link
  2. The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan. Amazon Affiliate LinkBookshop Affiliate Link.  
  3. The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. 

Gee Thanks… just bought it. Podcast 

Crafty Adventures

Crafting with Eme and Aila. Yarn covered styrofoam trees 

  • Made with recycled plastic 
  • Some yarn from Savers 
  • Lion brand Wool Ease 
  • Red Heart Scrubby. Looks like lights and or tinsel 

Girls made jewelry. Aila glued embroidery floss to match box cars for ornaments. Will cover hot glue with clay Aila embroidery box 

Knitting in Passing 

I share a story about a text from my friend Laura who received a comment in public about her hand knit socks. 

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21Important Links:

November Gratitude Bonus Ticket- get 500 tickets as a token of our gratitude by going to the Points Tally Form (Google Form) and choosing the November Bonus Ticket option by 12/1/21.
Winner for November Interception to be  Announced in Thread Soon. Will share winner on next episode. :

  • December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.
    • Check out Natalie’s patterns for ideas- Ravelry Link.
    • Live Event: 12:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 1st on the Knitty Natty YouTube Channel.The event with be a live cast on party + a live tutorial with tips for the knit Yarn Cozy Lite pattern
  • Monthly Scavenger Hunt: Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.

November Scavenger Hunt Clues: will be posted soon on the Ravelry Forum & on my website. 
October Prize Winners (pressed for time last time so didn’t get to include these)
Over 2k uses of the hashtag!!

Events

  • Vlogmas coming up on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel starting 12/1
  • Indie Design Gift-a-Long coming up: November 28-December 31, 2021
    • The sale period will run Tuesday, November 23 at 8 pm (US-EST) through Monday, November 29 at 11:59 pm (US-EST)
    • Check out the Indie Design GAL Ravelry Group
    • Coupon Code: giftalong2021
  • Fasten-off Yarn-A-Long Event– kicks off 11/30. 25% off Sale ends 12/6. KAL runs through December 31st. 
    • Need to have patterns that are discountable off Ravelry. LoveCrafts doesn’t allow this, so I’ll be looking into options so I can participate next year. 
  • I’ll be teaching Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches starting in January. 
  • Karen & Jessica of the Make Good Podcast are hosting a Sock KAL. Check out their website for details. 
  • Windswept Monique of the Knitting on the Run Podcast is hosting her annual Be a Helper Craft-a-long. Check out her website for details or Monique’s Instagram Page.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– December 9-12. 
  • Vogue Knitting Live in NYC in January 2022 has been canceled. They’re currently planning for: February 9–12, 2023 
  • Stitches West: March 3-6, 2022 (proof of vaccination + masks will be required) in Sacramento, CA

On a Happy Note

  • Making cookies with mom 
  • Thanksgiving!
  • Aila and Eme sleepover. 
  • Tree decorating 
  • Zoom with Patrons on Black Friday.
  • Breaking in my new MacBook Pro 14 inch 
  • Dan scanning old family photos and showing them to me. 
  • Nearly done Christmas shopping
  • House decorated for Christmas!

Quote of the Week

“With one kind gesture you can change a life. One person at a time you can change the world. One day at a time we can change everything.”
― Steve Maraboli

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_221_-_112921_5.35_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:15pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 220 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes & photos check out my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/220

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • 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: Anne Beady Designs on Ravelry & Etsy, Charming Ewe & Imagined Landscapes

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Static Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Static in the Neptune Colorway 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Mermaid

  • Pattern: Melody Mermaid Amigurumi by Chiara Cremon (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Minis in Cream (body/face), Paprika (hair), Marina (tail)
  • Hook: B 2.25 mm
  • Ravelry Project Page

Little Astronaut

  • Pattern: Little Astronaut by Valto Ekaterina ($4.50 crochet pattern- also available on Etsy)
  • Hook: B 2.25 mm
  • Yarn: White & Black worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Work arms & legs. Put aside. work head, neck. great instructions on how to attach limbs as you go.

Mended: Camp Out Fingerless Mitts

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Free Knitting Pattern by tante ehm
  • I used Berrocco Ultra Alpaca
  • These would be great for the Nov Interception if you haven’t already found a pattern for that!

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Costume Party Socks

  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Sweet & Sour Socks

  • Yarn: hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet & Sour colorway 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page 

Christmas Stocking for Peyton

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red, Red Heart Super Saver Solids in Hunter Green and White
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Little Toy Frog by Julia Ka. Ravelry Link. Etsy Link. $2.60 Crochet Pattern. 
  • Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon- Ravelry Link (free knitting pattern).
  • Check out the Pigskin Sponsor Ravelry Bundle ideas for gifts. Tip (sort by Yarn used)
    • Dinosaur Tails Fidget Toy ($1 crochet pattern) Ravelry Link by Knitty Natty
    • Go Fun like Gnome Fun by Sarah Shira- Ravelry Link. Website Link.
    • Ball Band Cozy by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern)- Ravelry Link. LoveCrafts Link.
    • Cashmears by Sarah Jordan ($4 knitting pattern) Ravelry Link- cabled DK headband
    • Do or Do Not Hat by Cassandra Cruikshank of Eat Knit & Dye- $5 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link. Bulky baby Yoda hat
    • Trail Mix by Lisa K. Ross- $4 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link- fingering weight cable mitts- 6 mo to 6 years
    • Without a Paddle Hat by Mary Hull Kino Knits-$6 Knitting Pattern. Ravelry Link
    • Phishing Mitt(en)s by Jesie Ostermiller $6 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link. DK weight colowork mitts/mittens inspired by Phish Foods Ben & Jerry ice cream
    • Rambler cowl by Lisa Cannon (Fibernymph Dye Works- Ravelry Link. $5 Worsted weight twisted stitch and lace cowl
    • Muskoka Cowl by Brenda Castiel- Ravelry Link. $6 Knitting pattern. Dk weight- non-traditional Fair Isle designs such as checkerboards, diamonds and chevron stripes.

From the Armchair

The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan

The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

Riley wore her Nanaimo Cardigan to play rehearsal and texted me to say her Director really liked it!

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

This episode:

  • Congrats to October Interception Winner- KarensAdventures
  • Check out the details of the November Interception hosted by Shanalines Designs. Find details in this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc. Cast on 11/1/21 or later. Deadline to post is 11/30/21.
  • I teased the December Interception: Cozy Up Challenge with Knitty Natty
    • Live Event: 12:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 1st on the Knitty Natty YouTube Channel.The event with be a live cast on party + a live tutorial with tips for the knit Yarn Cozy Lite pattern
  • Monthly Scavenger Hunt: Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.

Events

  • Indie Design Gift-a-Long coming up: November 28-December 31, 2021
    • The sale period will run Tuesday, November 23 at 8 pm (US-EST) through Monday, November 29 at 11:59 pm (US-EST)
    • Check out the Indie Design GAL Ravelry Group
  • I’ll be teaching Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches starting in January. 
  • Karen & Jessica of the Make Good Podcast are hosting a Sock KAL. Check out their website for details. 
  • Windswept Monique of the Knitting on the Run Podcast is hosting her annual Be a Helper Craft-a-long. Check out her website for details or Monique’s Instagram Page.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– December 9-12. 
  • Vogue Knitting Live in NYC in January 2022 has been canceled. They’re currently planning for: February 9–12, 2023 
  • Stitches West: March 3-6, 2022 (proof of vaccination + masks will be required) in Sacramento, CA

Life in Focus

I checked off another of my 21 in 2021 list items. #18 Do something spontaneous and delightful. Whisked Aila and Riley off to Great Barrington to see Emelyn!

  • Craft Fair
    • Rooster made from dyed eggshells and silicone.
    • Button Earrings from Caren Kinne Studios. Website. Instagram: carenkinnestudio
  • Fiesta Bar and Grill
  • Bistro Box– great outdoor lunch. Long line but worth the wait. Even the hungry girls agreed.
  • Patisserie Lenox on Main Street in Great Barrington
  • Even more delightful- in brainstorming what they want for Christmas the kids looked through my Rav pages at what I’ve already made them which was delightful in and of itself, but then we found a cute photo of Eme at age 10 w/ a pair of mitts and a cowl I made her. She had that set with her, so we did a recreation photo!  

Ask Me Anything

Dorothy asked about Thanksgiving Plans. 

On a Happy Note

  • Halloween pics of the kiddos.
  • Fun mail: my Advent Swap & my Legacy Fiber Artz calendar!
  • Teaching sock knitting classes.
  • Switching up the path of my morning walks.
  • Playing games with the girls on vacation. Relative Insanity & What do you Meme.( All variations on Apples to Apples/Cards Against Humanity)
  • Yarnable Subsription Box- November box contained an awesome Apple candle and mulling spices for apple cider. Delicious!
  • I got to see my cousin Jenny at work 2 days in a row!
  • Doing a bit of work on the side with my first boss at MGH.

Quote of the Week

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

Thank you for tuning in.

Direct download: Episode_220_-_111521_8.53_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:30am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 219 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Scroll down for links.
 
This week's segments included:
 
  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Fall is My Favorite Socks
 
Whatits Galore Socks
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whatits Galore Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Want to try Felici? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link
  • I found the first sock & finished the second!
 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Pink Moon Sweater
  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day's Russell's Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci's Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • A little bit of lace in the yoke above the colorwork- Pink held double w/ alpaca. First time using a fuzzy yarn
  • Finished yoke & tried it on.
 
Spinning
  • Rhapsody Fiber Arts Marina Roving: 50% Angora/50% Merino. 2 oz
  • No colorway name
 
Baker Street Socks
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici and in the Baker Street Colorway & Knit Picks Stroll in Navy
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
Costume Party Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
 
Static Socks
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Static in the Neptune Colorway 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • First sock 36g. 10 inches from cuff to start of heel flap and about a 10.5 inch foot. 56 sts/ 8 sts per inch gauge.
 
Brainstorming
 
  • Cozy Winter Sweater Wreath- Ravelry Link to Pattern
    • Heard about this on the Imagined Landscapes Podcast Episode 125.
  • Among Us characters requested by Millie. She selected this pattern of those available on Ravelry- Ravelry Pattern Link.
  • Alien for Oisin & a toy for Hattie (no specific patterns in mind yet)
  • Socks for Megg
  • Riley- said she wants something to match me... need to chat more about that.
  • I need to solicit toy/other knits requests for other kids
 
I am planning to donate the hats I knit to Donate Snap Hats to Knit the Rainbow
All garments can be delivered to KtR at the address below either by mail or via scheduled drop-off.
456 W 167th St.
Unit 1D
New York, NY 10032
 
From the Armchair
 
In My Travels
  • Tune in to hear about our recent family trip to Florida- including Disney World!
 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party '21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Important Links:
 
Check out the details of the November Interception:
 
The October Interception Winner will be announced on the next episode.
 
Events
 
Fiber Festival of New England- November 6 & 7th Springfield, MA
 
 
Life in Focus
 
Tune in to hear my update on my 21 for 2021 list.
 
On a Happy Note
  • Disney- a very generous gift from my parents.
  • Riding rides with the kids at Disney!
  • Visiting my cousins Gayle and Meagan, especially seeing Gayle's new place and the area where she's building her new house. 
  • Woodchopping weekend
  • October zoom with Patrons. I am so grateful for you and always have a blast hanging out. Check out my Patreon Page for more details.
  • The Yarnaics talked about wearing a shawl a day in October. I got a late start but am enjoying wearing them (almost) daily.
  • I purchased an Apple Watch! Any tips, app suggestions or things I should know?
 
Quote of the Week
"Progress is not possible with deviation." Frank Zappa
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
 
 
 
Direct download: Episode_219_-_103021_3.28_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 218 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.

 

This week’s segments included:

  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Marroon- Handspun
  • A little bit of lace in the yoke above the colorwork- Pink held double w/ alpaca. First time using a fuzzy yarn
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I have about 6-10 rounds of colorwork left! So addictive. Have had to stop and make myself stretch and then switch to another project. 

Fall is My Favorite Socks

  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh sock in the Fall is my Favorite Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Woolens and Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor for the Pigskin Party- 40 points
  • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop – 40
  • Project Bag: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
  • 100 points + yardage
  • First sock is done. Cuff on the second is nearly done! 

Millie Margaret Shawl (worsted)

  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Millie Margaret Kit (Pigskin Party Exclusive) in the Ashenvale Colorway
    • 3 100g skeins of Woolens & Nosh. 2 skeins of the Ashenvale self-striping for either end. 1 skein of the dusty purple for the center panel.
  • Needles: US 10 (6.0 mm)
  • Pattern: Millie Margaret (worsted) by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 40 pts for Pro Shop Sponsor Pattern
  • 60 pts for Pro Shop Exclusive Kit

Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino 

Baker Street Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici and in the Baker Street Colorway & Knit Picks Stroll in Navy
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

I shared details about the potentially ridiculous number of projects I’m packing for my trip to Florida.

From the Armchair

In My Travels

Tune in to hear about my visit to Scratch Supply Co. in Lebanon, New Hampshire. I was so excited to meet Karen and Jessica. I’m working on a video so if you’re not already subscribed to  my channel on YouTube: Down Cellar Studio, check it out!

I also shared stories about a recent camping trip to Vermont and sleeping in Dan’s hammock.

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Special Highlights on This Episode:

On a Happy Note

  • I ordered Legacy Fiber Artz Advent Calendar!
  • I’m signed up for another Advent Swap through the Between Knits & Purls YouTube Channel/Ravelry Group. Sign ups for this close on 10/16/21. Check out their Ravelry Post for details.
  • Outdoor yoga!
  • Riley & Millie’s softball games.
  • Apple Picking! My Favorite Day of the Year (Patrons, check out a video in your feed!)
  • Visiting with Tom who brought us a bunch of beer!

Quote of the Week

“You only need to know the direction, not the destination. The direction is enough to make the next choice.” -James Clear 


Thank you for tuning in!

Direct download: Episode_218_-_10621_5.13_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 217 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/217 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works, Love in Stitches, Charming Ewe

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Snap Hat #5 & #6

  • Pattern: Snap by Tin Can Knits ($6 pattern available on their website or on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 7 & US 10.5 (4.5 & 6.5 mm) needles
  • Yarn: fingering weight scraps- 4 strands of fingering held together.
  • Ravelry Project Pages: Hat 5Hat 6
  • I had hoped to donate these Snap Hats to Hats for Sailors Project but they are requesting 100% wool (ideally superwash wool) for its flame resistant quality.


Without a Paddle Hat

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn:
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Maroon handspun
  • Ravelry Project Page

Love Letters Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL Fingering in the Love Letters Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works– Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
  • Bag: Anne Beady Designs– Pro Shop Sponsor- Pigskin ’21 Exclusive- 60 points
  • Yarn Cozy: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
  • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop – 40
  • 160 points

Mermaid Socks

  • Yarn: agirlandherwool BFL sock in the August 2020 Club Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

I want to knit all the hats, a crochet stocking and some DK socks for myself.  

From the Armchair


Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Amazon Affiliate LinkBookshop Affiliate Link.

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Knitting in Passing

I shared a story about chatting with my friend’s uncles about hand knits they received as kids.

In My Travels

Tune in to hear a bit about my visit to 6 stores during the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul. Check out my YouTube Channel for an upcoming video.

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

September Skills Building Interception: hosted by Irocknits Designs. Find the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Runs September 15-October 1, 2021. Thank you, Cori, for hosting. Find her patterns on her website & on Ravelry.

October Interception: INCREASE Your Score: hosted by Wendy of Knitters Brewing Company.
Details will posted before this opens on 10/5. Prize: $30 gift certificate to the Knitters Brewing Co Etsy Shop

Events

Contest, News & Notes

Check out new vides on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

  • Berkshire Vacation Vlog
  • Crafty Chat #11 with Mary Hull/Kino Knits will go up on my YouTube Channel on Friday 10/1 at 12p Eastern. 
  • Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul Video (including Yarny Show & Tell) coming soon.

Life in Focus

Two thumbs up for the Maintenance Phase Podcast

On a Happy Note

  • Fall decorations
  • Cooler mornings and evenings!
  • Flannel shirts!
  • Mushrooms growing everywhere.
  • The mosquitos aren’t bothering me on morning walks anymore.
  • Outdoor yoga
  • Facetime with Hattie- “let me see the tractor… I miss you tractor!”
  • Getting to one of Garret’s baseball games. Checking out renovations at my. brother’s house.
  • Rewatching Scrubs.  

Quote of the Week

“Humor is what happens when we’re told the truth quicker and more directly than we’re used to.” – George Saunders

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_217_-_92921_8.22_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 216 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes including photos can be found on my website by clicking here: www.downcellarstudio.com/216

                                          This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles,                                                                                 Hook or Bobbins                      
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins                                                                                                                                 
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Anne Beady Designs & Good Noodle Yarn Company

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

4 Snap Hats

  • Pattern: Snap by Tin Can Knits ($6 pattern available on their website or on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 7 & US 10.5 (4.5 & 6.5 mm) needles
  • Yarn: fingering weight scraps
  • Used anywhere from 62-72g of yarn
  • #3 used 1 strand of DK and 2 strands of fingering. All others used 4 strands of fingering held together.
  • Ravelry Project Pages: Hat 1 (darker greens), Hat 2 (lighter greens), Hat 3 (cream with green/orange), Hat 4 (purples)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino 

Pink Moon Sweater

  • Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
  • Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
  • Yarn: 
    • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
    • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
    • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
    • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
    • Handspun BFL (maroon)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Whatits Galore Socks

Fall is My Favorite Socks

  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh sock in the Fall is my Favorite Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pigskin Bonus Point Breakdown:
    • Yarn: Woolens and Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
    • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
    • Project Bag: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
    • Total: 100 points + yardage points

Love Letters Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL Fingering in the Love Letters Colorway
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pigskin Bonus Point Breakdown:
    • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works– Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
    • Bag: Anne Beady Designs– Pro Shop Sponsor- Pigskin ’21 Exclusive- 60 points
    • Yarn Cozy: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
    • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop Sponsor – 40 points
    • 160 points + yardage points

From the Armchair

Woodswoman by Anne LaBastille. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Crafty Adventures

Punch Needle

Knitting in Passing

Recent trip to the Berkshires, chatted with a lovely couple from CT around the fire outside the lodge. The husband talked about how he learned to crochet when he was young, much to his father’s dismay. His family lived on a campground in the summer and his mother, grandmother and aunts all crocheted so they taught him and he really enjoyed it. He said he also had a cross stitch kit he bought ages ago and he’s looking forward to diving into that during retirement and longing for that meditative space of the repetition of the thread and the needle!

In My Travels

Stay Tuned for Vacation Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Mom and I recorded a chat about our week towards the end of our stay. Will pop in videos and photos we took turn the vacation! 

KAL News


Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Not familiar? It’s a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.

Kick off was so much fun! Staying in one Zoom room each day was great. I saved the Saturday afternoon chat after a participant mentioned it. Click here to find all of the links shared Saturday. 

30 Day Tailgate Talk Challenge. Begins 9/10/21. Find all of the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Not too late to start now. 

  • Starting Friday September 10th, answer one question a day in Your Team’s thread on Ravelry (not in the Huddle Thread unless you want to share in there as a bonus) and/or on Instagram using #DCSPigskinTailgate21.  If you share your answers to all 30 questions, enter the Points Tally Form and you’ll get 150 points for playing. Note- you cannot enter for these points until 10/8/21.

September Interception: hosted by Cori of Irockknits Designs. Check out her patterns on Ravelry. Check out the Interception details here.

Events

  • Tune in to hear the results of my annual challenge with Jasmin of the Knitmore Girls to “win” Stash Dash.
  • Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul– September 16-19th. 8 stores. 4 days of fun!
  • I am teaching a class on the OMG Heel Socks at Staci’s Stitches in Scituate, MA. Classes will be held from 6:30 – 8:30 PM on Wednesdays, starting Oct. 20, and continuing on Oct. 27, Nov. 3 and 10. $80 for the 4 sessions. There are a few spots still left. 
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021
  • NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021
  • Indie Untangled Rhinebeck

Contest, News & Notes

  • Sagamore Flyover Hat coming soon! Sign up for my email newsletter to be the first to find out when it drops. Bulky weight, textured hat. Written for beanie and slouchy options. Baby sizes through adults. Some of my testers had so much fun they knit up 2 in less time than I had allotted for them to make 1!
  • Michele at WoolensandNosh is offering kits for Millie Margaret Shawl. 

Life in Focus

  • Getting back into routine after vacation feels great.

On a Happy Note

  • Vacation Yarn Shopping- Webs in Northampton, MA & Spin Off Yarn Shop in North Adams, MA. Mom went to Colorful Stitches in Lenox, MA
  • Seeing our niece Emelyn and meeting her roommate.  Ramen & vintage clothing store shopping! 
  • Antiquing – got 4 fiber crafty items. One is embroidery. The other is, I believe, Crewel Embroidery. I also got antique wooden spools and a set of vintage wooden sock blockers
  • Spa day with Mom. Have you heard of a Lash Lift & Tints? We tried it! 
  • Hiking at Mt. Greylock with Mom and Dad. Highest point in MA. 
  • Seeing the Natural Bridge in North Adams, MA. The only White Marble Dam in North America. 
  • Even though our hike was canceled we still got to see Peck’s Falls.
  • Kayaking with Dan and Claire 
  • 2 weeks off!!!

Quote of the Week

If you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.
Frank Lloyd Wright

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_216_-_91421_6.14_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 215 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website by clicking here. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: AdoreKnit

Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Charlie, Candy, Theresa, Luanne and Beth!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Chubby Elephant

  • Pattern: Chubby Elephant by Spin a Yarn Crochet (free option or $2.50 US)
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in Misty Gray & Bernat Crushed Velvet in Toasted Plums
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 168.5 meters

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

  • Yarn: fingering weight scraps
  • Hook: D (3.25mm)
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.
  • Single crocheted the squares together and added border with Knit Picks Stroll in gray. 
  • 1816 meters

Imaginarium Socks

  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • 253.8 meters

Candy Color Socks

  • Yarn: Regia 4 ply in Colorway 01160
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Self striping/self patterning Christmas colors. CO 60 sts. 2×2 rib. down to 56 after heel.
  • 210 meters

Magic Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the Coal colorway (black)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 267 meters

Scrappy Shawl (design prototype: will share more details in the months to come)- 710 meters of sock yarn scraps.

Wild Plum Merino Spin

  • Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
  • Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
  • My Ravelry Page
  • 3 ply 252 yards /230 meters. 100g. Not as thick as I had hoped I could do, but its more like a DK than a sport, so I was at least moderately successful. Plumped up beautifully in washing. 
  • 924.2 meters for Stash Dash

Granny Stripe Blanket

  • Pattern: Granny Stripe by Lucy of Attic 24. Click here for Ravelry Link or Click here for Website. Free crochet pattern. 
  • Hook L (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton in Almond, Macadamia, Pistachio, Dusty Blue and Blueberry.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Foundation row- 56 chains. 
  • Edging- first round done using granny cluster on long edges as described in pattern. hdc around in Macadamia & then a sc round in blue and a picot edge in brown.
  • 7.56 skeins- 710.2 meters

V Stitch Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Baby Blanket by Annemarie Benthem (free pattern on LoveCrafts). 
  • Hooks: L (8.0 mm) to chain/set-up and J (6.0 mm) for body. 
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton in Almond, Macadamia, Pistachio, Dusty Blue and Blueberry.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Chained 79. 25 Vs. 
  • Edge= 2 rounds sc. 
  • 642.9 meters

Stash Dash Total as of 8/30/21: 15,392 meters.

Brainstorming

  • Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. Check out the pattern using this Ravelry Link or Website link. ($8 knitting pattern).
  • I pulled out Pigskin ’21 sponsor products. 2 WoolensandNosh self striping plus some from FIbernymph Dye Works, Mint Rain and agirlandherwool. And lots of bags too of course.
  • Pigskin ’21 Sponsor Patterns Bundle on Ravelry– 1005 patterns to choose from!

From the Armchair

In My Travels

  • Checked out a brewery up in NH- Hobb’s Brewing Tap Room on Rt 16 in Ossippi, NH
  • Played dice game: Quixx- Amazon Associate Link
  • We did taste tests of whoopie pies (vanilla versus chocolate filling) and Jax cheese puffs vs. Cheese Doodles cheese curls – helped me get a second bingo for the Craft, Cook, Read Repeat Podcast Summer Bingo event. 
  • We helped move some things out of Gayle’s Camp as she closes up to move. I was thrilled to take this beautiful embroidery piece that Gayle made home with me.

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

Virtual Kick Off Schedule

Events

Contest, News & Notes

On a Happy Note

  • Running is going really well! 
  • I saw not one but 2 bucks in a nearby yard!
  • Dan and I did a big basement clean out and Savers donation run.
  • My friend Laura came for her first visit since Covid. Antiquing overload!
  • Getting texts from my SIL with cute photos of our niece Gabriella playing with the teddy I made for her birthday and the Baby Yoda I made her for Christmas.
  • August Zoom with Patrons! So much fun. 
  • Pool night at my parents with my brother’s kids and my mom’s friend Trish. Silliness with Snapchat filters.
  • Dan and I had a blast at Camp. A great kick off to my vacation.

Quote of the Week

“Make your heart like a lake with a calm, still surface and great depths of kindness.”- Lao Tzu

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_215_-_83021_3.50_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 214 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here. 

This week's segments included:

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

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Gabriella's Velvet Bear

Summer Vibes Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Summer Vibes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my June Yarnable Unboxing & July Yarnable Unboxing Videos on YouTube.
    • Yarnable will likely open again to new subscribers in August 2021. Considering subscribing? Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN.
  • I love the Bomb Pop progress keeper from Clay Canon that came with the kit.
  • 272 meters

Millie Margaret (Worsted Version)

  • Pattern: Millie Margaret Shawl by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Chelsea Colorway & Knit Picks Twill in the Sea Salt Heather Colorway
  • Needles: US 10 (6.0 mm)
  • Knit Picks Affiliate Link
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 489.8 meters

Stash Dash total to date:  9,647 meters. Check out my Stash Dash 2021 Spreadsheet . You can also check out: Jasmin's Stash Dash 2021 Spreadsheet

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

Imaginarium Socks

  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Magic Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the Coal colorway (black)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: omg
  • Ravelry Project Page

Wild Plum Merino Spin

  • Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
  • Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
  • My Ravelry Page

Chubby Elephant

  • Pattern: Chubby Elephant by Spin a Yarn Crochet (free option or $2.50 US)
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in Misty Gray & Bernat Crushed Velvet in Toasted Plums
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

  1. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite Finished 7/28 Amazon Affiliate Link.  Bookshop Affiliate Link.
  2. Super Host by Kate Russo. Amazon Affiliate Link.  Bookshop Affiliate Link
  3. The Salt Path by Raynor Winn finished 8/8. Amazon Affiliate Link.  Bookshop Affiliate Link
  4. The Wild Silence by Raynor Winn. Amazon Affiliate Link.  Bookshop Affiliate Link

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Crafty Adventures

I dabbled in watercolor using a kit from Let’s Make Art, a gift from my bestie.

  • I worked on the Holiday Wreath using this kit. I have a Giraffe kit but haven't started it just yet.

Knitting in Passing

  • I went to a yoga class with one of my favorite instructors, Heather, at Webbs Pro Fitness. After class she pulled me aside to tell me she'd taken up knitting to make some baby hats and had moved on to Christmas stockings! We had a lovely chat! 

KAL News

Splash Pad Winners Announced 

Pigskin Party '21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

  • Official Rules (Google Doc)
  • Register to Play! (Google Form)
  • Points Tally Form (Google Form)
  • Sponsor List (Google Doc)- keep checking back. 
  • Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
  • Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
  • Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
  • Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they're posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
  • Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
  • Check out your standings (and others') on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet- COMING SOON)
  • Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
  • Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.

Important Updates this episode: Pigskin Prep

  • Come get Registered!
  • Please review the Rules, even if you play every year. We've tweaked a few things.
  • Check out the Sponsor list linked above.
  • We are doing Teams again this year. The overwhelming feedback from last year is that you really enjoyed the smaller community found within those teams, so we're excited to bring those back. You will be assigned your team on September 1st (if you register before then), so we'd really like to get most folks signed up before then (if possible). So please spread the word.
  • Finish those WIPs. 
  • Considering joining the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! We'll be doing monthly Zooms during the Pigskin and have one scheduled for later in August that you can join if you get in at the $5/mo level.  Plus you'll have access to my private IG feed and so much more.
  • Save the Dates- Sept 10+11 for Kick off fun! 

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • Check out my new patterns- the Millie Margaret Shawl- available for fingering weight and worsted weight yarn.
  • This pattern has been tech edited & test knit so you can knit on with confidence, but if you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to message me. Pattern also contains a link to a video tutorial that shows how to do the slipped stitch technique used in this pattern.
  • Patterns will be available for $7 each. Email subscribers get the best discount so check your inbox if you want to get both of these patterns.
  • Intro Deals:
    • Get both patterns for $6 on Ravelry through 8/22 using code "millie."
    • Want just 1 pattern? Get 40% off with code "niece," also good through 8/22.
  • Get your pattern now. Let me know if you need help picking yarn. get your swatch done, then maybe wait until 9/9 to cast on for Pigskin?!! I'm a Pro Shop Sponsor, so you'll get lots of points!

Life in Focus

  • Visit to Cleenland in Cambridge, MA. Great selection of personal products and cleaning supplies. I brought my own jars with lids and the lovely shop keeper weighed everything when I arrived. This is what I got:
  • clay mask [SallyeAnder rose for drier skin, emerald vegan for drier skin, or golden for oilier skin $5.23/oz]
  • face lotion [Oneka unscented $3.98/oz]
  • tooth tabs [Unpaste with or without fluoride pack of 125 for $8.50]
  • Bamboo tooth brush
  • dishwasher detergent [Azure Standard $0.29/oz = $0.15/load]
  • dish soap [Puracy lemongrass or unscented $0.15/oz]
  • bar dish soap [Meliora unscented or lemon $9.49/bar]
  • recycled garbage bags [If You Care $4.99]
  • toilet paper (100% recycled paper $1.07/roll or bamboo $1.15/roll)- Who gives a crap brand.
  • Melora cleaning tabs- 3 in the pack

On a Happy Note

  • Gabriella's 1st birthday. Pics of her hugging the teddy I made her
  • Will & Aila sleepover. Getting into hysterics as Dan, Dad, Mom and I all tried Will's new VR game system. Deer all around! We all just watched in fascination!
  • My Knit Picks Felici order!!!!!
  • I took my nephew, Garret, to Gillette Stadium for the first Patriot's Practice of the season.  Sleepover.
  • Meeting up with Petrina and Ryan at Gather Here in Cambridge, MA

Quote of the Week

Longevity researcher Dan Buettner on the health benefits of friendship:
"I argue that the most powerful thing you can do to add healthy years is to curate your immediate social network. In general, you want friends with whom you can have a meaningful conversation. You can call them on a bad day and they will care. Your group of friends are better than any drug or anti-aging supplement, and will do more for you than just about anything."


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_214_-_81421_9.21_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:50am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 213 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photo available on my website. Click here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

  • Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Total: 246 yards/ 225.52 meter
  • Stash Dash Total (3 ply yarn, 4 times through orifice): 902.08 meters

Bobble Lines Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Bobble Lines Baby Blanket by Daisy Farm Crafts (free option on Daisy Farm website & paid option available on Etsy. )
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Main Color: Lion Brand Pound of Love in White. Stripes in: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Blush, Lion Brand Baby Soft in Creamsicle, Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in Tutti Fruitti, Loops & Thread Impeccable in Coral.
  • Working with 97 sts. 15 Bobble Rows
  • Edge
    • Round 1. DC around
    • Round 2. Hdc around
    • Round 3 with ice cream scoop. (DC5tog, sc2) around
  • Stash Dash total: 1,099.1 Meters
  • Finished Size: 36 inches wide by 46 inches long

Wristers Socks

  • Yarn: Lion Brand Mani-Pedi in the Wristers Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • I was inspired to try this yarn after seeing my friend Emily’s on our Crafty Chat- check out the video here.
  • Stash Dash: 240 meters

Stash Dash total to date:  8774 meters. Stash Dash 2021

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

  • Yarn: fingering weight scraps
  • Hook: D (3.25mm)
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.
  • I have 134 squares which could make a blanket that’s- 11×12 but I may not have enough yard to edge that many so we’ll see as we get closer

Imaginarium Socks

  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Summer Vibes Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Summer Vibes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my June Yarnable Unboxing & July Yarnable Unboxing Videos on YouTube.
    • Yarnable will likely open again to new subscribers in August 2021. Considering subscribing? Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN.

Magic Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the COal colorway (black)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: TBD
  • Ravelry Project Page

Gabriella’s Velvet Bear

Wild Plum Merino Spin

  • Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
  • Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
  • My Ravelry Page
  • Divided into 3 so I can do a 3 ply.
  • Focusing on not spinning so thin.

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

  • During Hattie and Millie’s sleepover we did some painting! Video available for Patrons. Haven’t joined us yet? Check out the options on my Patreon Page.

Knitting in Passing

  • I shared a story about knitting up at my cousin’s lake house with family friends and how my cousin asked for some more handmade dishcloths next time I visit.

In My Travels

  • I shared stories of our family’s long weekend up at Great East Lake in NH.
  • I talked a bit about the Saturday night tradition of hot dogs, beans and brown bread. Click here for a related story.

KAL News

Splash Pad Party: May 28 through July 31

Pigskin Party

Participants: Reminders

  • We are not yet ready for participants to sign up, but start telling your friends! Remember, you get points for new recruits.
  • Don’t forget that the Pigskin Party is a NO WIPs KAL so get those needles cleared off. If you need a little help with that, consider joining my Patreon Community. That’s going to be our focus in August.

Events

Contest, News & Notes

Ask Me Anything

Sewrunknit says “I would love for you to share any travel tips that you have for traveling light and using fewer disposable products. Specifically how you handle deodorant, other toiletries and food on an airplane trip.” 

  • I use bar soap for face & body- same as from home, or will cut off smaller piece. fits into a metal travel tin I got a couple years ago.
  • I have a small glass jar for my night face oil for face- that I refill from the larger Argon oil I get from Trader Joe’s. 
  • For day time moisturizer/SPF, I bring full one, or use small silicone containers I got from Amazon
  • Deodorant- I bring full size or I have a travel size that I refill with a mix of baking soda and coconut oil and lavender (not great for flying or big swings in temperature). 
  • Shampoo and conditioner- currently I’m using bars (not liquid), but when using liquid versions, I use refillable travel containers.
  • If I’m only bringing a carry-on but am going somewhere for a week, I’ll buy full size sunscreen or something I’ll need more than 3oz of, and then leave rest behind with someone there. 
  • Food- I often pack banana, sandwich or wrap either in plastic container (that I can reuse during travel), or tinfoil. I bring dish soap with me, so I can wash containers and my water bottle. I often bring a straw cleaner too because I always travel with silverware and a stainless steel straw, a cloth napkin or two and a handkerchief. 

Farmstead Knits asks about my – favorite patterned sock other than vanilla

AggiedecarloKnits- would you do a tutorial on spinning?

  • I hadn’t planned on it because I am not a very experienced spinner but I’ll think about. If you have thoughts on what specifically you all would like to see, let me know.

Suzi321- what is the first garment you knitted?

Flora_n_Fauna_victoria- I am new to the podcast. Could you do a quick who am I and how did I end up podcasting update?

  • Tune in to learn more about me!

On a Happy Note

  • Mille & Hattie’s Sleepover- Pancakes. We watched Beauty and the Beast and had some Blanket Fort fun.
  • We celebrated my nephew Will’s 14th Birthday.
  • I’m enjoying running.
  • Attending a 1 hour cardio jazz class taught by my friend Diana with my friend Megg. Dinner and drinks after and then Megg and I sang our hearts out on the car ride home.
  • 4 days off work! Spending time at the lake!

Quote of the Week

To love a person is to learn the song that is in their heart and to sing it to them when they have forgotten.—Arne Garborg

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_213_-_72921_11.06_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 212 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website by clicking here. 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Anne Beady Designs- find her on Etsy & Ravelry

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Signs of the Season Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in the Signs of the Season Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks

  • Yarn: Agirlandherwool Sock in the Not In Kansas Anymore Colorway. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Happy Birthday Socks

  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Serendipity Sock Yarn in the Happy Birthday Colorway.
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Paton’s Rainbow Stripes

  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Rain
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • I finished first sock with Jen from the Commuter Knitter Podcast. We talked about these on our Crafty Chat on my YouTube Channel.

July 4th Cozy (32 oz jar)

  • Pattern: based loosely on Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar n’ Cream (Navy) & Lion Brand Re-up (Aqua) & Rowan DK Handknit Cotton (Red)
  • Hooks: F & G (3.75 & 4.25 mmm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Stash Dash Meters: 62.2

Red, White, Blue Ball Band w/ Twist

  • Pattern: based loosely on Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up in colorways, Red, Aqua & White
  • Hooks: F & G (3.75 & 4.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Stash Dash Meters: 38.5

Deschain

  • Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624-   Gray.
    • Worsted weight 50% Linen / Flax, 50% Cotton. 200 meters / 100 grams. Bought 4 skeins. Used a little more than 2
  • Size: Smallest (54 1/4 in bust) Calls for 16-22″ positive ease.
  • Added 1 repeat to front so I did end up joining a second ball of yarn but otherwise I didn’t alternate skeins and that looks ok.
  • Many project pages talk about adding short rows to the back which I will likely do, as I often find w/ cropped sweaters the back is higher and I don’t enjoy that. Forgot I thought about this and would have been happier if I’d done it.
  • Worried that sleeves would be tight, so I left that opening bigger and picked up and knit 54 sts around
  • Ravelry Project Page

Stash Dash Updates

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

Bobble Lines Baby Blanket

  • Pattern: Bobble Lines Baby Blanket by Daisy Farm Crafts (free option on Daisy Farm website & paid option available on Etsy. )
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Main Color: Lion Brand Pound of Love in White. Stripes in: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Blush, Lion Brand Baby Soft in Creamsicle, Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in Tutti Fruitti, Loops & Thread Impeccable in Coral.
  • Cast in with K. 99sts. Working with 97 sts. 
  • 5 rows white hdc. 1 row of bobbles
  • Currently have 13 bobble stripes.

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

Wristers Socks

  • Yarn: Lion Brand Mani-Pedi in the Wristers Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired to try this yarn after seeing my friend Emily’s on our Crafty Chat- check out the video here.

Knitting up a sample for a new shawl design idea… very early sneak peek

Brainstorming

  • I’d like to make toys for the 2 babies in our life turning 1 soon
  • I need to repair another pair of socks for Mom and the hat of Eme’s octopus
    • Pattern: Dandy Sir Cephalopod by Susan Claudino
    • Pattern $6 US available on Ravelry

From the Armchair

Some Years Later

Dawn to Dusk Triangle Shawl – side to side crochet triangular shawlette. Mom still wears hers and I think it looks great, but I don’t love mine. I think the acrylic yarn makes it look/feel cheap. I think I will donate mine.

Knitting in Passing

  • I helped my Mom’s Infusion Nurse, Kathy, with a crochet baby sweater. She’s using a Goosebumps pattern from a YouTube video from the Simona Crochet channel.
  • I helped my 17 year old niece Eme pack up her room. It was fun coming across so many of the toys I made her over the years. She did let a couple of them go, at my insistence that if she didn’t love them now, that it was ok to let them go. She loved them for awhile and that was good enough. She also donated a sewn pillow monster that her mom didn’t want her to let go but because Eme has such a hard time giving up her treasures we both really resisted the urge to encourage her to keep things.

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

Events

  • Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
  • Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details.   They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18. September 9-12, 2021. October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021
  • Tour de Fleece. Saturday June 26 through Sunday July 18, 2021 Ravelry Link
  • Fiberworld July 21-25, 2021. Click here for their website.
  • 2020 Summer Olympics will begin on Friday, July 23, 2021

Contest, News & Notes

Life in Focus

I am not participating in Plastic Free July this year but tune in for a bit about what I think about the challenge and how you can make some changes in your life if that’s interesting to you! Check out the Plastic Free July thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group

For more, check out Episode 107 of the Sustainable(ish) Podcast

On a Happy Note

  • Dan is healing well after knee surgery.
  • I was diagnosed with Lyme 2 days later (not so happy) but the silver lining is that there hasn’t been much sun to avoid while I’m on these nasty antibiotics.
  • We had a super fun Tuesday night/post-4th raincheck night pool night. Hattie, Garret and Millie went swimming then snuggling on the couch after dinner. Ice cream bars from Dairy Queen. Buster Bar with peanuts! Better than I remember which I think is rare when remembering things from childhood.
  • I worked with Eme to get in her papers to complete her second semester of college.
  • Maggie, Our friend’s daughter painted a deer for us to hang in our dining room!
  • Yarn swap with the Between Knits and Purls Ravelry Group: Merry Everything and Happy Always!

Quote of the Week

“I may not be where I want to be but I’m thankful for not being where I used to be.”

― Habeeb Akande

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_212_-_71521_12.47_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:26pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 211 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Beth, Luanne, Kathy, Candy & Theresa

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Recalibrate Top

  • Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit)
  • Needles: US 8
  • Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I knit size 5; full length.
  • Check out my almost-done Happy Dance Video from Instagram.
  • Modifications: I changed the striping sequence for the left & right body. For my size I was supposed to do 2 garter ridges per color striping all the way across the body. Instead I did:
    • 7 repeats of the 2-garter ridge stripes (7 each of cream + gray)
    • 7 repeats of 1 garter ridge stripes (7 each of cream + gray).
  • Split hem:
    • Front: Picked up 4 sts from each side panel plus the front stitches. Knit 18 rows (9 garter ridges).
    • Back: Picked up 5 stitches from each side panel plus the back stitches. Knit 22 rows (11 garter ridges).
  • For the edging on split hem section, I started and ended each RS row with (k1, s1pw wyif, k1). I started and ended each WS row with (s1pw wyif, k1, s1pw wyif).
  • Pattern is available for pre-sale now $8.00. Click here for Ravelry Link. Click here for PayHip Link.
  • This pattern is available for presale. Save 20% with code SUMMER.

Dragonboat Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Dragonboat (self striping), Minis from Holly Press Fibers for Cuff. Heel & Toe in Twisted Owl Fiber Studios in the Poison Ivy colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 268.7 meters for Stash Dash

Alien Knight & His Horse

  • Pattern: Princess & Knight by Silvia Usón (~$4.25 pattern on Etsy– English & Spanish)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Black, Alfalfa (green), Midnight Heather (Navy) & Big Twist Twinkle (Silver)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Safety Eyes from 6060 on Etsy.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • 46 meters for Stash Dash

Hydrangea Stripes Blanket #2

  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)- Ravelry LinkWebsite link.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Hook: I (Cast on with K hook)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice in Shadow Ombre, Orion Blue, Burgundy & Sea glass, Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in Suede & Big Twist Soft in Rose & Charcoal
  • I cast on 86 to make this blanket smaller than my last one.
  • I followed the border instructions in the pattern. 3 rounds of a spike stitch: gray, pink, gray, then I did a round of HDC in the gray. Love the look!
  • About 39 inches squares before border. 
  • 1,149 meters for Stash Dash

Stash Dash total to date: 4,891 meters. Click here to see my Spreadsheet Tracker. 

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

  • Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Onto the 3rd 2oz braid (the darkest of the 3 shades)

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks

  • Yarn: Agirlandherwool Sock in the Not In Kansas Anymore Colorway. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Happy Birthday Socks

  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Serendipity Sock Yarn in the Happy Birthday Colorway.
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Paton’s Rainbow Stripes

Brainstorming

  • Another crochet blanket.
  • Another Recalibrate Top.
  • I’d like to cast on something with the Tequila Sunrise Cheviot that I spun last summer from Blueberry Chick Yarn (click here for my Ravelry Project Page). 473 yards. crochet shawl maybe? Let me know if you have any suggestions.

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

  • I did just a little bit of painting with the girls. I’ll include a few minutes of audio after the music if you want to tune in. 

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

In this episode- I shared the details of the 4th of July Challenge. Details on my website & on Ravelry. I announced a bunch of Participation Winners. If you won- please reach out to me via Ravelry or email.

Events

  • Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
  • Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details.   They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18.
  • Tour de Fleece. Saturday June 26 through Sunday July 18, 2021 Ravelry Link
  • Fiberworld July 21-25, 2021. Click here for their website.
  •  2020 Summer Olympics will begin on Friday, July 23, 2021

Contest, News & Notes

I learned about the Woolly Wishes organization on Episode 39 of the WeCrochet Podcast 
They provide Syrian families with warm clothing items, toys, and blankets among other things. Check out the link above for more details about where in California to mail handmade items that they will deliver to the Syrian refugee camps.

On a Happy Note

  • Oisin and Will’s birthday sleepover.
  • Seeing fireflies in the driveway!
  • Will’s soccer game and Riley’s softball game.
  • Hattie, Aila and Emelyn’s dance recital.
  • Great pool day for Father’s Day.
  • Hair color (for me) and cuts for Mom & me.
  • Oisin’s birthday at the beach!
  • Sleepover with all 5 girls. blanket forts. manicures, making pancakes and muffins, painting, video games. barbies and most of them were only with us for about 15 hours! 

Quote of the Week

In order to complete our amazing life journey successfully, it is vital that we turn each and every dark tear into a pearl of wisdom, and find the blessing in every curse. – Anthon St. Maarten 

 

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_211_-_62821_4.39_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 210 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works & Knit Style Yarns

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$9 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns FlockSock (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I knit the size 42. I decreased every row towards the end of the decrease section. I went down 2 sizes for ribbing US 5.  
  • 2,048 meters for Stash Dash

Playhouse Scrappy Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Socks by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Playhouse colorway + other leftovers of Felici
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my Knit Picks Affiliate Link if you want to purchase some Felici Yarn
  • Felici Colorways used:
    • Ribbit
    • Playhouse
    • Witch’s Brew
    • Currant Mood
    • Beyond the wall
  • Used 66g of yarn- 262 meters

Stash Dash Total as of this recording: 2,311 meters

Click here for a link to the spreadsheet I’m using to track my Stash Dash Meters.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Recalibrate Top

  • Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit) Find Shana on Instagram.
  • Needles: US 8
  • Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

  • Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Onto the 3rd 2oz braid (the darkest of the 3 shades)

Candy Color Socks

  • Yarn: Regia 4 ply in Colorway 01160
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • CO 60 sts. 2×2 rib. Reduced down to 56 after heel.

Dragonboat Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Dragonboat (self striping), Minis from Holly Press Fibers for Cuff. Heel & Toe in Twisted Owl Fiber Studios in the Poison Ivy colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I made two 25g balls that each had 16 stripes. I need about 9 stripes for foot (before toe) based on other Felici socks. Aim for 7 stripes on leg. 
  • All but toe of second sock is done. So close. 

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks 

  • Yarn: Agirlandherwool Sock in the Not In Kansas Anymore Colorway. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Happy Birthday Socks 

  • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Serendipity Sock Yarn in the Happy Birthday Colorway. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Hydrangea Stripe #2

  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)- Ravelry Link. Website link.
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Hook: I (Cast on with K hook)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice in Shadow Ombre, Orion Blue, Burgundy & Sea glass, Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in Suede & Big Twist Soft in Rose & Charcoal
  • Cast on 86.

From the Armchair

Some Years Later

  • Last June I used some Lion Brand Re-up in rainbow colors plus gray and Black to make a fun Mason Jar Cozy. We use it all the time but with washing and nearly daily use it could probably stand to be replaced. Ravelry Project Page
  • 2 years ago I finished up a scrappy hexagon blanket that I later gifted to friend and co-worker Lauren for her baby girl, Meadow. I still see her posting pics of her daughter using it. Ravelry Project Page

Crafty Adventures

Punch Needle

  • Kit with pattern by Teresa Kogut
  • Pattern: PN165- For Ewe
  • Link to purchase pattern only on Etsy for $12.
  • I purchased my complete kit from Tree House Fiber Arts. Click here for their website.
    • Kit included: 7″/9″ Morgan hoop, weavers cloth, floss, Ultra Punch Needle, Needle threaders, pattern, instructions.
    • Kits no longer available but Rachel does have double hoop, pattern and the punch needle in stock.
  • Helpful resources:
  • Took Mom’s advice and separated out whole skeins of embroidery floss into the 3 strands I needed and put them on bobbins. From there I could load my punch needle and keep going until I decided to cut instead of running out of floss and having to thread it again and again. Got through nearly all of the sheep! 

In My Travels

  • Dan & I enjoyed our first Tentrr experience. Site: Mauralou Farm in Rhode Island. 
  • We had dinner in Westport MA at the Back Eddy Restaurant.

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

Events

  • Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
  • Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details.   They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– June 10-13, July 15-18.
  • Tour de Fleece. Saturday June 26 through Sunday July 18, 2021 Ravelry Link
  • Fiberworld July 21-25, 2021. Click here for their website.
  •  2020 Summer Olympics will begin on Friday, July 23, 2021
  • Fiberworld July 21-25!

Contest, News & Notes

Life in Focus

I talked about how I planned for and successfully navigated a really intense work week!

On a Happy Note

  • During the first weekend of June we had Hattie and Oisin for a sleepover. Starte d the weekend with a surprise school pick up for Hattie & taking her out for ice cream. 
  • We enjoyed our nephew Will’s confirmation + picnic by the beach after. 
  • Getting 4 days in a row with my dear friend Kim. 
  • Listening to audiobooks with Dan.
  • Swap box from my Merry Everything and Happy Always Swap Partner in the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group Can’t wait to open each day in July!
  • Birthday Flowers + puzzle from Dan

Quote of the Week

Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action. “― William James

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_210_-_61521_1.36_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:12pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 209 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Cookie & BeesKnitters Brewing CoGeektastic Fibers

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns FlockSock (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Playhouse Scrappy Socks

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: agirlandherwool sock in the Not in Kansas Anymore colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Deschain

  • Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven
  • Needles:: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624- Gray.
  • Size: Smallest (54 1/4 in bust) Calls for 16-22″ positive ease. I should have around 19″
  • Modification: added 1 lace repeat to the front of the top
  • Ravelry Project Page

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

Recalibrate Top

  • Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit)
  • Needles: US 8
  • Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

Punch Needle

Crafting with Hattie:

  • Watercolors. coloring with crayons.
  • We sewed up holes in Dave’s seams and added more stuffing. Oisin won him at the arcade sleepover in 2014. Still one of his favorites. Check out this vlog video for some of that!

I did some visible mending on some of Mom’s socks.

In My Travels

We recently spent a weekend away in Orange MA at a cottage rented through AirBnB on Lake Mattawa.

Breweries we visited:

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

Events

On a Happy Note

  • Getting to interact with our youngest niece, Gabriella.
  • Live streaming Riley’s dance competition
  • New eyeglasses!
  • Hattie and Oisin’s sleepover!
  • Selfies with Hattie- “no not like that!” with the filters
  • Visiting with my friend Laura down the Cape.
  • So much fun with our Project 465 in May with Patreon group! Thankful to so many of you who signed up recently! Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Quote of the Week

“Some things are better off ignored than attacked. Attention is the oxygen of conflict. When you fight a problem, you breathe life into it. When you starve a problem of your attention, you suffocate it. In a surprising number of cases, the way to solve a problem is to ignore it.” -James Clear

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_209_-_52721_10.35_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 208 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Irocknits Designs, Sunsoaked Yarns, Precision Athletic Training.


Thank you to our Ultimate Insider Patreon Members: Theresa, Kathy, Luanne & Beth! Your support means so much to me! 

Welcome back BostonJensMom! Thanks, Mom, for co-hosting with me again (first time since the pandemic started)

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Gram’s Mother’s Day Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knitting Fever Indulgence 6-ply Color 102-Green, purple, blue, red stripes.
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns FlockSock (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Advent 2020 Scrappy Socks 

  • Pattern: OMG Socks by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Fingering weight yarn from Advent Swap with Stephanie @Farmsteadknits on IG
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Playhouse Scrappy Socks 

  • Pattern: OMG Socks by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Playhouse colorway + other leftovers of Felici and other self striping yarn.
  • Started Oct 2019
  • Socks started ages ago. Did vanilla bean slipped stitch thing between stripes. Didn’t love them so I pulled back and just knit, then several stripes in, the yarn broke which broke up repeat. I took it as a sign to make them scrappy instead. 
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Hydrangea Stripe #2

  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Hook: I  (Cast on with K hook)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice in Shadow Ombre, Orion Blue, Burgundy & Sea glass, Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in Suede & Big Twist Soft in Rose & Charcoal
  • I cast on 86.

Deschain

  • Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven
  • Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624-   Gray. 
  • Size: Smallest (54 1/4 in bust) Calls for 16-22″ positive ease. I should have around 19″
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Weave in ends in linen? Tips welcome 

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

2 finished books: 

2 new to me podcasts: 

Crafty Adventures

I received an antique Circular Sock Machine (CSM) from my best friend’s Dad, who found it in their attic when they downsized a few years ago. I’ve spent time the past 2 weekends cleaning it but haven’t cast on yet. I found this video tutorial helpful as I think about casting on.

Knitting in Passing

We finally got to visit my grandmother at her new apartment in an Assisted Living community. Introduced us to her friend as her granddaughter- the one who knits all the shawls and socks! Her Jean Marie shawl is on the back of her chair. 

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

Ravelry Links:

Events

  • Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website
  • Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Stay tuned to their website for more details.   This year I’m going to crush Jasmin again. Since I already have the Sash I think if I win this year I should get the rights to the tiny speech writer next year lol
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– June 10-13, July 15-18.

On a Happy Note

  • Mom: “being able to see people.” She shared stories about visiting her cousin Susan and working on Genealogy with Aunt Florence, Linda & Trish.
  • Mother’s Day at Jen’s house.
  • Mom had a successful experience with Max Sold Auctions and will have more coming up soon.
    • Interested in trying it out? Use coupon code NESellers for no minimum for the first auction + $100 off the total commission if the auction makes more than $1,000.
    • Want to learn more about selling online- you can request to be part of Mom’s Facebook Group.

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

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_208_-_51321_2.03_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 207 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Find full show notes with photos check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: AdoreKnit, agirlandherwool & Yumi Yarns

Stay tuned after credits for audio from Riley and Aila

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Baby Yoda (#2)

  • Pattern: Baby Yoda Amigurumi (free crochet pattern) by LarissaMaced – @beefriendscrochet
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in Fern (green) and Soft Taupe (Beige)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm) for Yoda. G (4.0 mm) for robe
  • Ravelry Project Page

Dan’s New Year’s Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Needles: Goosey Fibers in the Stay out of the Forest (not final dye version) & Lock Your F*cking Door (brown)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on 52 stitches.

Dan’s Glass Ceiling Hat

  • Pattern: Glass Ceiling Hat by me, Jennifer Lassonde- Ravelry Link
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (I think)
  • Size 3
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns FlockSock (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Gram’s Mother’s Day Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knitting Fever Indulgence 6-ply Color 102
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Thank you to Lynn (LynnPar) for enabling. She messaged me to say that Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick was on sale at Joann’s. I scored 4 skeins of colorway: Storm Front to make a Nanaimo Cardigan (to match Riley’s). 
  • Vogue Knitting Keynote with Stephen West (click here for his website) has me wanting to cast on one of his designs because it would be fun to make and have, but also to learn and continue to stretch my skills. 

From the Armchair

Finished Reading: 

Some Years Later

Tune in to hear me talk about a project I finished on May 1, 2014- Tan House Brook Shawl in Neighborhood Fiber Co Studio Sock in the Rock Creek Park colorway

Check out my Ravelry Project Page here.

Crafty Adventures

I am learning Punch Needle!

Tune in to hear Riley and Aila talk about the craft projects they did during their Birthday celebration.

KAL News

Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

  • Check out the Splash Pad Party Sponsor List
  • Rules, sponsor list and so much more can be found on the Splash Pad ’21 landing page on my website
  • Sign up by filling out this Google Form
  • Kick Off Weekend: Saturday May 29 & Sunday May 30th.
  • Preview night on Friday May 28th
  • Kick Off Weekend-Saturday May 29 & Sunday May 30th.
  • Friday night there will be a 4p-5p Zoom–  Kick Off Happy Hour with BostonJen & a special event for Patrons only: 7p-9p Zoom -Knit Night Zoom

Events

  • Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website
  • Knit Girllls Stash Dash usually end of May. Stay tuned to their website for more details.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– May 13-16 & June 10-13, July 15-18. 
  • May 14-16- Indie Untangled is having a Indie Spotlight Virtual Show.
    • I’m participating in a Designer Spotlight on Sunday May 16 at 3p.
    • General Admission is $7.00 

Contest, News & Notes

  • Patreon Update: its been fun seeing so many of you sign up! Check out my Patreon page to see the kinds of things you’d get access to if you want to join. Reminder: Those in the $5+ tiers get access to my private IG feed & to the monthly Zoom hangout during the KALs. Need more incentive? We have a new challenge starting in May. 
  • Check out my latest knitting design: Glass Ceiling Hat Pattern $5 on LoveCrafts and Ravelry
    • Get 30% off with code “breakit” through 5/15/21 OR if you’re a newsletter subscriber, check your inbox for an even better deal. 

On a Happy Note

  • I had fun celebrating LYS Day. Yarn’s End in Norwell teamed up with Dirty Water Dyeworks for kits for my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl. You can still get those kits online here.
  • I bought some yarn for a colorwork sweater I’m dreaming of knitting at Staci’s Stitches.
  • Sitting outside on the porch. Pattern writing and knitting while the boys work.
  • Last Saturday the boys installed a tire swing. Not just any tire swing- but our old backhoe tire swing! It’s glorious and fun! 
  • Really enjoyed my Vogue Knitting classes in April! 
  • I had a blast catching up with my friend Kristi (krisluvswool on Instagram). You can check out all the crafty projects Kristi is making (and my recent projects too) on my YouTube Channel.
  • I also recently recorded a Crafty Chat with Shana (shanalines_designs on Instagram) that will go up soon. 
  • Riley & Aila’s birthday day out!!
  • Planning Hattie’s first sleepover! 

Quote of the Week

In limits, there is freedom. Creativity thrives within structure. Creating safe havens where our children are allowed to dream, play, make a mess and, yes, clean it up, we teach them respect for themselves and others.- Julia Cameron

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_207_-_42921_1.00_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:02pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 206 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. www.downcellarstudio.com/206 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Reminder: All Links that lead to Ravelry are labeled as such.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Eme’s 17th Birthday Rainbow

  • Pattern: Rainbow Crochet pattern by AmiMami Doll on Etsy. $3.74 (on sale $3). 
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Minis + Big Twist soft from Joann’s
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Interesting in picking up some Brava Worsted Minis? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Riley’s Nanaimo Cardigan

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn:  Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Colorway: Storm Front (5 skeins)
  • Needles:
    • US 13 – 9.0 mm
    • US 15 – 10.0 mm
    • US 19 – 15.0 mm
  • Size XS/S
  • Used 4 full skeins (not the 5 that I purchased)
  • Tag from Beam City with my logo on it.

Sidewalk Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes  in the Sidewalk Chalk Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Whale Song Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whale Song Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Hydrangea Stripes Blanket

  • Yarn: Sprighly Acrylic Worsted in Silver Grey, Suede and Misty Pink. Vanna’s Choice in Grey Marble, Charcoal Grey & Oatmeal. Knit Picks Brava Minis in assorted colors.
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm), Cast on with K (6.5 mm)
  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Chained 118 to start with J hook. Used that for first sc row too. Then went to H hook.
  • Finished blanket. 34 wide by 50 inches long. 53 rows plus set up and finish row.
  • 692 grams used.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Hydrangea Stripe #2

  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)
  • My Ravelry Project Page
  • Hook: I  (Cast on with K hook)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice in Shadow Ombre, Orion Blue, Burgundy & Sea glass, Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in Suede & Big Twist Soft in Rose & Charcoal
  • Chain 86 to make this one a little smaller.

Fibernymph Spinning

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns FlockSock (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Dan’s New Year’s Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Needles: Goosey Fibers in the Stay out of the Forest (not final dye version) & Lock Your F*cking Door (brown)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on 52 stitches.

Gram’s Mother’s Day Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knitting Fever Indulgence 6-ply Color 102-Green, purple, blue, red stripes.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on 64
  • Ribbed down front of the leg

Brainstorming

  • Excavation Blanket by Jana Pihota (free knitting pattern- Ravelry download only. Inspired by by friend Melissa. 
  • I’d love to make another Hydrangea Stripe Blanket (for me).
  • I’d like to make a Nanaimo for me using the same Storm Front Colorway I used for Riley’s.

From the Armchair

Knitting in Passing

When I visited with my Aunt Florence during her chemo treatment, I took out sock to show her. We got talking about how colorwork is done and the difference between intarsia and stranded colorwork. Just then, a nurse walked by and admired Dan’s sock. We got to chatting with her. She said she knits but hasn’t in awhile because of some joint pain but is looking forward to getting back into it.

KAL News

  • Splash Pad opens Friday May 28
  • You can sign up on May 1st. Stay tuned for the link.
  • Save the Date: Virtual Kick Off Weekend May 29 & 30, 2021
  • Sponsor spots open. Click here for details.
  • Rules will go up soon but as a reminder, WIPs are eligible for this KAL so if you want to get strategic and save stuff consider this your heads up. 
    • Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KALThis is the paid option ($50 for Splash Pad Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. Pro Shop sponsors receive 1 free 30 second promotional ad on the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, and first selection of Virtual Vending Spots for the Kick off Weekend Saturday May 29 & 30th.
    • Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be able to sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots. Snack Shack Sponsors may sign up for any available Virtual weekend spots available after Pro Shop Sponsor Sign Up.
    • Note: All Sponsors are required to contribute at least one prize with a minimum suggested value of $20.

Sponsor List (subject to change as we are still inviting sponsors)

Pro Shop Sponsor
AdoreKnit
agirlandherwool
Anne Beady
Cookie and Bees
Fibernymph Dye Works
Geektastic Fibers
Into The Woods
Irocknits Designs
Knit Style Yarns
Knitters Brewing Company
Prairie Bag Works
Sunsoaked Yarns
YumiYarns
Snack Shack Sponsor
19stitches
Bonnie Baker Etsy Shop
Cragen Cottage Designs
Hyacinth Creek Designs
Kino Knits
Knitosophy Designs
KnittenKristen Designs
Legacy Fiber Artz
Nicole Simmons Knits
Precision Athletic Training
Windswept Designs

Events

  • Know of something? Let me know.
  • NJ Wool Walk– April 17th through April 25, 2021. Mostly in person event but they’re also having a lot of virtual events.
  • Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– April 14-18. I am taking 3 classes & a lecture.

Contest, News & Notes

Check out the new Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Details about each tier is listed below or tune into this video to hear Mom & I chat about it.

$2/month: Coffee Club

  • 2 Episodes of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast each month (24/year)
  • Several YouTube Videos per month on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
  • Access to my public BostonJen1 Instagram Feed
  • (NOTE: You do not have to be a patron to continue to enjoy these offerings. They will always be free)

$3/month: Passionate Podsters: 

  • Access to all blog posts in my Patreon feed. Behind the scenes in my making and more lifestyle details, tips etc. Reviews and other notes about finished projects. Lots of photos, sneak peeks of upcoming designs and more! 
  • Access to private vlog video (approximately once per month)
  • And everything in the previous tiers.

$5/month: Stitchin’ Squad

  • Monthly Group Zoom Knit Nights during the Splash Pad Party & Pigskin Party MALs (make-a-longs).
  • Access to a private Instagram Feed with even more behind the scenes and lifestyle goodness.
  • And everything in the previous tiers

$7/month: Invaluable Insiders

  • A coupon to use in Jennifer Lassonde’s Ravelry Store each Quarter good for 1 free self-published pattern.
  • This tier will evolve depending on the group’s interest. I’ll take polls and see what you’re interested in. Perhaps we’ll do periodic Zoom chats focused on a specific topic with some Q&A at the end. Will record for those who aren’t available to attend live. 
  • And everything in the previous tier.

$10/month: Ultimate Insiders

  • A coupon to use in Jennifer Lassonde’s Ravelry Store each Month good for 1 free self-published pattern.
  • Patron shoutouts on the podcast
  • Even more behind the scenes looks at designs in progress + the opportunity to help me name new patterns
  • And everything in the previous tiers

Special Offer: Sign up in April- any tier- and be invited to submit your questions in advance and to join Jen live on a Zoom all to discuss, time management, efficiency, goal setting or anything else you need help or motivation with. Zoom will be scheduled in May and will be recorded for those who can’t attend live.

On a Happy Note

  • I enjoyed my first time inside our local library in a long time. Got 3 books and snagged a great deal on some zoo passes for Riley and Aila’s birthday adventure.
  • First time decorating for Easter here using hand blown eggs from my family.
  • Easter festivities. Check out this vlog for some silly Easter dinner shenanigans. You can also see Millie reminding me how to latch hook.
  • Trying something new- daikon radishes my friend Melissa gave me.
  • Experimenting with going gluten free which seems to be helping my digestion…
  • The Last Blockbuster on Netflix

Quote of the Week

Never say anything about yourself you don’t want to come true.― Brian Tracy

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_206_-_41521_11.09_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:48am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 205 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes and photos on my website. Click here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Some Years Later
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Reminder: All links to Ravelry are labeled as such. 

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Laura’s Cameo Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX Yarn in the Cameo Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Easter Garland

Heart Garland 

  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern)-website link
  • Hooks: 3.75 + others 
  • Yarn: 
    • White: Lion Brand Wool Ease- 301- White Multi
    • Big Twist from Joann’s (Holiday- Red & Twinkle- Gray/Silver)
  • Ravelry Project Page

3-ply Corriedale Yarn from Wound Up Fiber Arts

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Riley’s Nanaimo Cardigan

Sidewalk Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes  in the Sidewalk Chalk Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Ravelry Project Page 
  • Used Green Stripe Ragg colorway of Patons Kroy for heel.

Whale Song Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whale Song Colorway. If you’d like to purchase any Knit Picks Yarn I’d appreciate it if you’d use my Knit Picks Affiliate Link.
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
  • Ravelry Project Page Link
  • Knit Picks Stroll in Navy Colorway for the heels.

Hydrangea Stripes Blanket

  • Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)
  • Ravelry Project Page 
  • Yarn: Sprighly Acrylic Worsted in Silver Grey, Suede and Misty Pink. Vanna’s Choice in Grey Marble, Charcoal Grey & Oatmeal. Knit Picks Brava Minis in assorted colors. Some of them include: Avocado, Dublin, Sienna, Wine, Denim, Fig, Tranquil, & Coral.
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm), Cast on with K (6.5 mm)
  • Chained 118 to start. Pattern calls for chaining 182 for a 4×6 foot blanket. Next time I’d cut by half at least for a baby blanket.

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Tune in to hear more about my experiences with Virtual Vogue Knitting Live in March

Some Years Later

  • Thank you to Ravelry user MLbatesWI, Lisa who recommended this idea for a segment in her review on Apple Podcasts.
  • FO from March 2016 Socks using KnitCircus Yarn in the Greatest of Ease Base in the Come What May Colorway.
    • Check out my Ravelry Project Page.
    • I wear them often and I think they’re holding up well. Not overly dingy. 
    • One note- Knit Circus has changed hands but this yarn base, according to Ravelry, isn’t discontinued. 
  • Pair of socks I knit for Dan 5 years ago with Regia 4 ply. His first pair of patterned/self-striping socks. Check out my Ravelry Project Page. Also his first pair sock weight socks. Holding up beautifully! 

KAL News

  • Splash Pad opens Friday May 28
  • Sponsor spots open. Click here for details.
  • Save the Date: Virtual Kick Off Weekend May 29 & 30, 2021
  • Rules will go up soon but as a reminder, WIPs are eligible for this KAL so if you want to get strategic and save stuff consider this your heads up. 
    • Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KALThis is the paid option ($50 for Splash Pad Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. Pro Shop sponsors receive 1 free 30 second promotional ad on the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, and first selection of Virtual Vending Spots for the Kick off Weekend Saturday May 29 & 30th.
    • Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots. Snack Shack Sponsors may sign up for any available Virtual weekend spots available after Pro Shop Sponsor Sign Up.
    • Note: All Sponsors are required to contribute at least one prize with a minimum suggested value of $20.

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • I’m sorry share about the passing of Paula Emons-Fuessle on March 22, 2021
  • March 31st last day to use original version of Ravelry. I’m sad and frustrated that it has come to this. The eternal optimist in me was holding out hope that they’d fix the issues that have been reported. Tune in to hear more about my thoughts and my plan so far. If you know of good alternative, especially for a pattern database, please let me know.
  • I will not be using Ravelry from 3/31- 4/2 to support the worldwide ban that’s being organized. 
  • Want to export our patterns from Ravelry?
  • I have a new pattern available on Ravelry & Love Crafts!
    • The Sure of You Headband is a simple stockinette & reverse stockinette headband with a mock i-cord edging and flexible button closure at the back.
    • This pattern has been tech edited & test knit.All instructions are written and charted.
    • It calls for bulky weight yarn and US 8 Needles.
    • It is written for 4 sizes.
    • Use code friends on Ravelry to get the pattern for $4 instead of $5 or if you’re a newsletter subscriber, check your inbox for an even better coupon code.
  • New on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. 

On a Happy Note

  • Savers trip with Mom- blue sequin “Fearless” pouch! Fearless is Mom’s word of the year for 2021!
  • Hattie wearing the pink legwarmers I knit for Aila. 
  • Hiking longer and in better weather.
  • Having friends over for a bonfire. Tractor rides for the kids. Jiffy pop!
  • Planning Disney trip for the whole fam!

Quote of the Week

“New goals don’t deliver new results. New lifestyles do. And a lifestyle is a process, not an outcome. For this reason, your energy should go into building better habits, not chasing better results.”
-James Clear


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_205_-_33021_10.36_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:06pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 204 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes including photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Fifties Stripes Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patrons Kroy Stripes in the Fifities Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Cozy Classic Raglan (finished for 2nd time)

Juju Fruit Headband (#2)

  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Pattern: new design. Release TBD.
  • Ravelry Project Page

Yadi the Frenchie

Laura’s Tranquility Scarf

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Laura’s Cameo Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX Yarn in the Cameo Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Whale Song Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whale Song Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Brainstorming

  • I swatched with unknown Sweitzer yarn (likely worsted/aran weight). Blocked swatch is 15 sts over 4 inches on US 7s. 14 sts on US8s. I like the fabric, but am having a hard time finding a pattern that matches this gauge.
  • I’m also really in love with this knit dress. Pattern is the Schlossel Dress by Siga Lagamta Ravelry Pattern Page. Do you think it would look good on me?

From the Armchair

KAL News

  • The Splash Pad Party opens Friday May 28, 2021!
  • Sponsor spots are available. Click here for details.
  • Save the Dates: Virtual Kick-off Events will take place on Saturday May 29th and Sunday May 30th.
  • Rules will go up soon but as a reminder, WIPs are eligible for this KAL so if you want to get strategic and save stuff consider this your heads up. 

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • What’s new on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel?
  • Punk Frockers Sewing podcast (audio). Check out their website.
    • Hosted by Beverly Baptiste and Jenny Hassler. They are looking to create a sewing community, will be hosting challenges, focus on sharing patterns from indie makers and size inclusive pattern designers. 
  • I am now a Knit Picks Affiliate which means if you make a purchase using this link, I will get a small commission. It doesn’t cost you any extra.

Ask Me Anything

I receive a comment on the blog from Lisa suggesting a new segment on the podcast called “One Year Later” where I would “Revisit items you finished one year ago and discuss how they’ve held up. How is the yarn looking? Wearability? Does it get frequent use or is it time to frog it?”

Do you like this idea? Come tell me in the Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.

This time I talked about my Soldotna Crop which I finished 2/29/20. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page. I used Brown Sheep Prairie Spun DK in two colors of gray and Daschinger Wools for yellow and turquoise. All non superwash. Worn many many times. No signs of pilling. No stretching. Love it!

I also talked about my Ice Time Mitts finished in early March 2020. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page knit in Cloudborn Fibers DK and Legacy Fiber Arts DK. I love the fit, the yarn still looks brand new. No signs of wear. 

On a Happy Note

  • Millie is healing well after knee surgery. We celebrated and showed support with a parade/outdoor visit.
    • The night before I went to Mom’s where she, Trish and I made posters. So fun!
  • Mom & Dad each got their first Covid vaccine!
  • Celebrated Megg’s birthday. Workout in morning together. Dinner/fire together in the evening!
  • Longer days. 60 degree temps.

Quote of the Week

“Instead of asking how many tasks you can tackle given your working hours, ask how many you can ditch given what you must do to excel.”

Morten Hansen

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_204_-_31221_4.46_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 203 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos visit my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/203 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you for the recent rates & reviews in Apple Podcasts. I’d love to get the number of ratings up to 300! Want to help? Check out the article for step-by-step instructions.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Crochet Heart Garland

Heidi the Horse

  • Pattern: Heidi the Horse by Jess Huff (free crochet pattern). Direct link to pattern website.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Soft Taupe Colorway (body). Mystery brown acrylic worsted weight yarn for hooves, tail, mane. Mystery cream acrylic for nose & ears. 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Ursa

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak ($8 knitting pattern)- pattern also available on PayHip
  • Needle: US 11 (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway. Retails for $8.50 per ball. (Yarn provided free of charge for me to review)
  • Finished sweater used 472 grams/ 519 meters, 567 yards.
  • Tune in to hear my thoughts on how we see ourselves and decide what’s flattering or not. Remember a photo is just one angle of you. Everyone in real life sees you as a dynamic moving person, not just one static image. See examples of what I’d consider good/bad or flattering/unflattering photos below. Bottom line: I do love the sweater and have worn it several times already! Really enjoyed knitting with this Kraemer Yarn and can definitely see myself using it again for future projects.

Juju Fruit Headband

  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Pattern: new design. Release TBD.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Wound Up Fiber Arts 3 Ply Spin

  • Fiber: Wound Up Fiber Arts Corriedale, 100 grams. Colorway 1: Prim (finished 1/12). Colorway 2: Fall Vibes finished 2/2. Colorway 3
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • No color management. Going to add other 2 braids. 3 ply.
  • 15 min per day in Feb
  • I have about 1/4 of the third braid, Honey Pie, left to go.

Fifties Stripes Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patrons Kroy Stripes in the Fifities Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 

Brainstorming

  • Garret asked for a dog that looks like their French Bulldog, Yadi, for his birthday. I purchased a pattern from BlackBird Pattern on Etsy.  $8.49 Contains patterns for both a Frenchie and a Pug.  Most realistic of all the patterns I could find on Ravelry and Etsy. 
  • I bought a black dog nose and replenished some safety eyes from 6060 on Etsy.
  • I bought removable wallpaper samples from Etsy. We liked this one, but Dan suggested I paint it instead and get the kids involved.

From the Armchair

  • Books I’ve Finished (listened to each of these on the Hoopla app): 
    • A Tale of Magic by Chris Colfer, so I got it from the library.  Amazon Affiliate Link.
    • You Are Not So Smart: Why You Have Too Many Friends on Facebook, Why Your Memory is Mostly Fiction by David McRaney- Amazon Affiliate Link 

Crafty Adventures

  • Riley taught me how to make Disney ears using a headband, cardboard shapes for the ears, polyfill, material, ribbons and a glue gun. No sewing required. We filmed a video that will be up on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel soon. 

KAL News

Pigskin Party wrapped up; winners announced in Episode 202. If you won a prize and haven’t already reached out already please get in touch before March 10th.

Events

  • Virtual Vogue Knitting Live- March 18-21- Workshops posted
    • Check out friend of pod, Mara Smith is teaching a class on Saturday March 21 12:30p-1:30p. Lecture: Sit Right and Knit All Night: How Proper Ergonomics Can Increase Productivity
  • Carolina FiberFest (virtual): March 11-14. . Workshops March 11-14, with vendors, free talks and demonstrations on the 12-14th.

Contest, News & Notes

  • Let’s welcome Jen from the Commuter Knitter Podcast back to the Podcasting world! She uploaded a new episode for the first time after 4 years. Great episode, fun audio from her 4 year old twins at the end. Find Jen on Instagram as NDJen04
  • Check out the AndersMill Knits Podcast on YouTube.  I joined Emily & Stephanie. Episode 57.1 & 57.2 
  • Check out my Thrift Haul Video
  • Weekend Crafty Vlog– February 14th & 15th : You’ll get weekend knitting, crochet and spinning. You’ll also see some yoga, snowy walks in the woods, hear an update on my experience with my 2nd Covid Vaccine, and join me (and the fam) for thrifting adventures. 
  • My Studio Redesign is complete. Check out the transformation video on YouTube. 
  • Thanks for getting me over 1,000 subscribers! I really appreciate your support. 

Life in Focus

Update: 21 for 2021 List- Completed:

  • #4- Complete Book 2 for my 2018 Album
  • #10- Hit 1,000 subscribers on YouTube
  • #11- Participate in the February Challenge on Instagram
  • #12- Read/listen to 10 books
  • #19- Submit a pattern to at least 1 publication 

Ask Me Anything

Limestone knits asked on IG- How to choose sweater patterns that integrate well with your existing wardrobe

  1. What colors do you wear? What colors do you like up near your face? Do you like stripes? Patterns?
  2. What type of sweater do you usually wear? Pullovers? Cardigans? Baggy/fitted?  
  3. When you wear sweaters what are you doing and what else are you wearing? Do you only ever wear sweaters out of the house, never at home? Do you want your sweater to pair with jeans? Leggings? 
  4. Are you warm blooded or cold blooded? 

On a Happy Note

  • Thrifting with Mom, Riley and Millie over the holiday weekend. So fun! 
  • Walking in the snow with Hattie and Megg last Saturday.
  • Visiting with Millie outside, safely and sitting fireside on her birthday. Getting to see Garret skate in the ice rink my brother made in the backyard. 
  • My BFF came for a socially distant visit- bringing fresh, local mint chip ice cream and flowers. 
  • New “bowl” in my food rotation: Black Bean Cowboy burger from Trader Joe’s, a little bit of quinoa, whatever roasted veggies are in the fridge, a little cheese and BBQ sauce. 

Quote of the Week

You make mistakes, mistakes don’t make you”― Maxwell Maltz

 

Thank you for tuning in!

Please note: book links are all Amazon Affiliate Links. If you make a purchase (or anything else) after clicking through that link, I’ll get a small percentage. It doesn’t cost you any extra. It’s a great way to support the podcast, so thanks in advance for considering purchasing through these links. 


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_203_-_22721_2.43_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:07am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 202 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mom’s Rhinebeck Birthday Headband

  • Yarn: Mom bought a sweater quantity at Rhinebeck 2019 from Battenkill Fiber Mill in NY. Had more than 1 full skein of the 9 she purchased leftover.
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Pattern: None

Vampire Vibes Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vampires Vibes colorway. Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock (heels)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Jeff’s Ice Time Hat

  • Pattern: Ice Time Hat by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (charcoal) & Leading Men Fiber Arts Dramaturg in the Sandcastle Colorway (tan).
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)

Crochet Heart Garlands

  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern)
  • Hooks: Various sizes
  • My Ravelry Project Page– blue version
  • Yarn: Acrylic Worsted Weight yarn from stash (for hearts), wool fingering weight scraps (for garland).

3 more Garlands in red, white and silver

  • Project Pages, One, Two and Three
  • Fun with sparkle yarn
    • White: Lion Brand Wool Ease- 301- White Multi
    • Big Twist from Joann’s (Holiday- Red & Twinkle- Gray/Silver)

Hattie’s Little Unicorn

  • Pattern: Little Unicorn by Valto Ekaterina ($3.60 Etsy)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: White- worsted acrylic from stash. Colors from Knit Picks Brava Minis
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern calls for attaching limbs as you go. Felt more fiddly than it was worth so I skipped that and sewed them on after.
  • Pattern calls for tying in yarn for hair. I used crochet chains instead.

3-Ply Shetland

  • 100% undyed Shetland
  • 100 grams,
  • Finished yarn: 98g. 256 yards- sport weight 3 ply.
  • Ravelry Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Ursa

Super Bulky Chevron Blanket

Wound Up Fiber Arts 3 Ply Spin

  • Fiber: Wound Up Fiber Arts Corriedale, 100 grams. Colorway 1: Prim (finished 1/12). Colorway 2: Fall Vibes (finished 2/2). Colorway 3: Honey Piet
  • Ravelry Project Page

Laura’s Cameo Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX Yarn in the Cameo Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Dan’s New Year’s Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers Squish DK
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Whale Song Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whale Song Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

From the Armchair

I’ve recently read & enjoyed:

I Found You by Lisa Jewell. Amazon Affiliate Link

The Anatomist’s Wife by Anna Lee Huber- Amazon Affiliate Link

The Flight Attendant by Chris Bohjalian- Amazon Affiliate Link

Started watching HBO Max show. Very different but still really enjoyable.

My 12 year old niece, Riley is reading Tale of Magic by Chris Colfer, so I got the audiobook from the library.  Amazon Affiliate Link.

Crafty Adventures

I’ve been enjoying drawing and cooling and pasting things into a little notebook. It’s along the ideas of a Commonplace book (click here for a blog post about this type of notebook).

2nd Crafty Chat Video with Riley. Check it out the video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Check out the Pinterest challenge at the end of the video.

Valentine Baskets- Delighted in putting together Valentine’s surprise baskets for my family. Included in them were the handmade garlands, books, mugs, candy, edible treats. baskets and some other goodies bought second hand. Plus some paper punch hearts they can staple together to make a garland- or use in another crafty project.

I made two batches of Banana Ice Cream for Mom & Jeff, my brother. This is the recipe I use.

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’20

The Pigskin Party has officially wrapped up. Check out the End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects.

Tune in to hear the January/February Participation Winners, the January Stash Hat Interception Winner and the 14 Grand Prize Winners!

Events

  • Vogue Knitting is continuing their virtual classes. The next round is March 18-21. Check their website for more details about upcoming events.

Life in Focus


Word of the Year: Delight

  • I bought some stickers that say “DELIGHT” and I added a delight quote to the canvas I painted for the Pinterest Challenge.

I checked in on my 3 primary goals for 2021:

  • 3 strength/circuit/barre/yoga workouts per week (tracked in Fitbit app)– I’m easily meeting and exceeding this now that I’ve been doing 30 Day Breath Series on the Yoga with Adriene YouTube channel.
  • 8 designs published
    • 1 down 7 to go (1 through tech editing, and 2 other samples knit)
  • Make & assess goals every month in 2021
    • Did my January assessment! Didn’t take long because I have been doing weekly assessments too.

Tune in to hear some 21 for 2021 List Updates

On a Happy Note

  • On Hattie’s Birthday, I stopped by to give her her gift. She was delighted with her unicorn. Check out my Instagram feed for the video. 
  • Mom’s Birthday- Zoom Call. 
    • We made a Birthday Video for Mom using Vidday. It allows you to send out a link and folks can upload their videos. You can arrange them, pick music etc. Then they process it all for you. $24 for 10-20 minute video. Worth it for the ease of use.
  • SNOW. So much snow.
  • I was able to see my Aunt Florence during her chemo treatment. I showed her video on how to make pompoms using cardboard circles & helped her purchase Knit Picks Bulky yarn for her to make some new hats.
  • Getting my 2nd Covid Vaccine.

Quote of the Week

When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. -Khalil Gibran


Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_202_-_21421_2.12_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 201 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/201 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Gnome for Kris

  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in several shades of pinks and gray
  • Ravelry Project Page Link
  • Pattern: none, I created this as I went. Let me know if you like it and I may write up the pattern.

Crochet Lion Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Crochet Lion Amigurumi by Melanie Willis available on Ravelry & Etsy
  • Hook: C: 2.75 mm
  • Yarn:  Knit Picks Brava Sport (lost ball band- yellow), Vanna’s Choice (tweedy oatmeal).
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I finished the lion (left photo) and wasn’t completely happy so I moved the right eye and added more mane yarn to frame the face a little more closely (right photo).
  • Ravelry user deafelis posted to say  Jen, it sounds like you need a latch hook (Michaels link) for the lion mane! You basically described latch hook rug making, and that special hook makes things so much easier.” Thanks for the tip!

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

  • Yarn: Area 51 Fibres in the Christmas with the Gilmores Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Used 74g of yarn total, but used Patons for contrast heels. Excited to have leftovers.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Spent most of the past 2 weeks knitting up the sample for a new shawl design and a secret project for Mom’s birthday which I am not sharing details on just yet…

Ursa

  • Ravelry Project Page. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/BostonJen/ursa
  • Pattern: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak
  • Needle: US 11 (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway (yarn provided to me free of charge for my review)
  • Size 3 (42 inch bust)  
  • Thanks to Ravelry user mjgnatt– MJ- who said “I believe the yarn for your Ursa pull over is Mauch Chunky. I live in Northeastern PA and there is a town called Jim Thorpe in Carbon County. The town used to be called Mauch Chunk which means Bear Place in the native Munsee-Lenape Native American language. The pronunciation of Mauch is “mock”. Just thought you might want to know how appropriate your yarn is for your Ursa pullover as Ursa Major is a constellation also known as the Great Bear.”

Super Bulky Chevron Blanket

Wound Up Fiber Arts 3 Ply Spin

  • Fiber: Wound Up Fiber Arts Corriedale, 100 grams. Colorway 1: Prim (finished 1/12). Colorway 2: Fall Vibes
  • Ravelry Project Page

Laura’s Cameo Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX Yarn in the Cameo Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Dan’s New Year’s Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers Squish DK
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

KAL News

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

  • Check out the January Interception: Stash Hat Scrimmage Hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Check out the Ravelry Thread or this page on my website.
  • Pigskin Movie night hosted by VTKimmyKim:  Enola Holmes on February 6th at 8pm EST. Check out the Pop-up Events tab for details as it gets closer.
  • Thank you to Mara Smith for hosting a Pigskin Party Stretching session on January 24th! So great to see your smiling faces. I felt so great afterwards- and spent the rest of that day chasing a 3 year old, so it was good to be limber! Check out Mara’s Instagram Account for her PrecisionATPerformance business or her website. She offers Zoom stretching classes that you may enjoy Flexibility: Wednesdays at 6:30pm Stretches for Stitchers: Fridays at 6:30pm. She is running a sale on February classes but you have to sign up by 1/31. So get over there now if you’re interested.

Events

Contest, News & Notes

  • I’m excited to share the release of my Abington Mitt pattern.
  • The Abington Mitts were designed to match my Abington Hat. They use similar repeats of twisted stitches and cables as the focal point for the top of the hand.The mitts are worked from the wrist up and are customizable.  
  • 3 Sizes: Small (Medium, Large): Finished palm circumference: 6 (7, 8) in / 15.25 (17.75, 20.25) cm
    • Intended to fit with a little bit of negative ease. Select the size that is closest to your hand circumference as measured just below the knuckles and above the thumb gusset. If you are between sizes, I’d recommend going down to a smaller size.
  • Yarn: DK weight:  Yarn used in samples: 66 (70, 80) grams. 162 (172, 196) yards / 148 (157, 179) meters* If you plan to make your mitts longer in the wrist and or/hand, you will need more yarn.
  • Needles: US 4 / 3.5 mm & US 6 / 4.0 mm, 32 in / 80 cm circulars for magic loop, or your preferred needles for knitting in the round.
  • This pattern has been tech edited & test knit.Instructions are both written and charted.
  • Find the Abington Mitts Pattern for $5 on Ravelry & coming soon to LoveCrafts.
  • Newsletter subscribers, check your email for the best possible deal. The pattern will have an intro code for everyone else making the pattern just $4.

Life in Focus

Ask Me Anything


Knitgirlwagner asked. What’s the best way to teach yourself to spin? 

Mfcknits- do you have a favorite sock heel method? 

On a Happy Note

  • Splashing in the mud puddles on a recent hike with Hattie.
    • Hattie talking about coming home with me. Wanting to sleep over “when she’s little” after I insisted she can sleep over when she gets “a little bigger.”
  • Weekly check ins with Mom about our goals.
  • Crafty time with Eme and Hattie.
  • The joyous, safe Inauguration of our 46th President and first female, Asian American/African American VP. Missed watching it live, but used phone unboxing batteries at work. Had to keep myself from crying because had a feeling if I did, someone would inevitably walk in at that moment. 
    • Amanda Gorman, 1st ever youth poet laureate, shared a poem. Read the transcript. Really recommend you watch it
  • Bridgerton on Netflix with Dan.
  • Snow! 

Quote of the Week

“You can do so much in ten minutes’ time. Ten minutes, once gone, are gone for good. Divide your life into 10-minute units and sacrifice as few of them as possible in meaningless activity.”

– Ingvar Kamprad

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_201_-_12921_11.30_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:09am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 200 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes including photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/200 

This week’s segments included:

  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Crochet Lion Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Crochet Lion Amigurumi by Melanie Willis available on Ravelry & Etsy
  • Hook: C: 2.75 mm
  • Yarn:  Knit Picks Brava Sport (lost ball band- yellow), Vanna’s Choice (tweedy oatmeal).
  • Ravelry Project Page

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

Vampire Vibes Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vampires Vibes colorway. Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock (heels)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Dan’s New Year’s Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers Squish DK
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on 52 sts. Thank you past Jen for that note in the project bag. 

Scrappy Sparkly Halloween Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Some scraps. Some Knitty & Color minis 

Ursa

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak
  • Needle: US 11 (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway 

Super Bulky Chevron Blanket

Wound Up Fiber Arts 3 Ply Spin

  • Fiber: Wound Up Fiber Arts Corriedale, 100 grams. Colorway 1: Prim (finished 1/12). Colorway 2: Fall Vibes 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Hayven Sweater by Kate Oates. Ravelry Pattern Page. Also Available on Kate’s website.
  • I’d like to make a garland (or two) for new white wall in my craft room.
  • Craving to knit/design a new hat! Slouchy style to wear with curls. I wear my Thumper Hatconstantly. 

Crafty Adventures

I’m still working on my studio set up after painting a wall and re-arranging furniture. I hung up some handmade prints on an unused part of the chalkboard wall.

Knitting in Passing

I recently did a crafty chat on Zoom with Riley. Check out the video on my YouTube Channel. 

KAL News

Quarterly Quests for 2020 are Complete!

Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash. Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link. Tune to hear if you’re a winner.


Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

December Interception Winner Announced! Along with December Participation Winners!

Check out the January Interception: Stash Hat Scrimmage Hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Check out the Ravelry Thread or this page on my website.

Contest, News & Notes

Abington Mitts will be ready for test knitting soon! Get in touch if you’re interested.

Life in Focus

Check out this YouTube Video on my channel for a review of how I review the past year and plan for the next. Worksheets and printables are available in case you want to do this too!

Tune in for an overview on my 2020 review and Goals for 2021.

2021 Word of the Year: Delight
Primary Goals:

  • 3 strength/circuit/barre/yoga workouts per week (tracked in Fitbit app)
  • 8 designs published
  • Make & assess goals every month in 2021

21 for 2021 List

  1. Go to the MFA
  2. Take at least 1 trip with Dan (weekend or longer) outside MA
  3. Complete 10 pages/stories for my December Daily Album
  4. Complete Book 2 for 2018 Photo Book
  5. Finish Covid 19 scrapbook
  6. Go Skiing
  7. Knit a garment out of handspun
  8. Kayak at 1 new place
  9. Spent at least 1 weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
  10. Hit 1,000 YouTube Followers
  11. Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
  12. Read/listen to 10 books
  13. Take at least 12 baths
  14. End the year with $5k more in savings($33k) 
  15. Take a trip with Mom
  16. Take at least 1 knitting/crochet/spinning class
  17. Go Apple Picking
  18. Do something spontaneous and delightful

Carry over from 2020

  1. Submit a pattern to at least 1 publication 
  2. Go camping 
  3. Do 1 in-store class or event at a local yarn shop (scheduled- didn’t happen)

Ask Me Anything

  • Tune in to hear my answers to questions asked on Instagram.
  • Boehmela asked about my knitting/crocheting plans for 2021. Some preliminary thoughts:
    • Knit with handspun
    • Spin more (not sure what that means)
    • brioche project
    • garland for my room. 
    • finish my mystery gnome
    • do another advent swap 
    • colorwork sweater for me.
    • sweater with my Rhinebeck 2019 yarn. 
  • elisa.knits: Why don’t you knit blankets?
    • Bottom line: They take too long, get heavy and hurt my hands/arms.
  • mfcKnits- Quarantine Workout Routines
    • I aim to do live workouts online through my gym: Monday 6:15a ab class. Wednesday 6:15a Circuit, Thursday 12:15 upper body, Friday 6:15a tabata. In an ideal week I do all 4 but when that’s not possible, sometimes I watch one I wanted to attend live on replay or watch something on YouTube:
    • In the morning or on the weekends I enjoy hiking alone or with friends.
    • My thoughts: start small and make it really achieveable. When possible, find something you enjoy or if you don’t enjoy it, pair your workout with music/podcast you like.
  • Rplatt- asked about my Evernote usage. I am planning to create a YouTube video for this.
  • ecbThorman wanted to know my fav winter recipe. Truth I’m not really a recipe personal. Lately my go-to comfort food has been adding veggies to Trader Joes Poblano Corn Chowder. 

On a Happy Note

  • January 6th, started with beautiful snowy walk, looking at the pink sky. Listening to updates about the Georgia Democrats winning two Senate seats. The day devolved into riots and violence but I’m glad I had that slow, beautiful start to my day.
  • Zoom chat with Melissa. Tip: Get together with a friend on Zoom where you don’t have to sit and just talk. Multi-tasking can make a Zoom call even more low-key and fun.
  • Seeing goats on my neighborhood walk!
  • Dan organized some of the unfinished side of our cellar adding a light and extended cork flooring there.
  • Trees cut down. It’s a relief to know they won’t fall on the house. Every time I take a walk and re-enter, it smells like a Christmas tree lot. Making me insanely happy. 
  • Hiking with Megg, Oisin and Hattie!

Quote of the Week

Author and speaker Jim Rohn on the best response to the disappointments of life: 
“Let’s face it … people and events are going to continue to both hurt and disappoint you. Among the people will be those you most love, as well as those you least know. Seldom is it their intent to purposely hurt you, but rather, a variety of situations mostly beyond your control will cause them to act, speak, or think in ways which can have an adverse effect upon you, your present feelings and emotions, and the way your life upholds. It has been this way through six thousand years of recorded history, and your hurt or grief is not the first time a human has been deeply hurt by the inappropriate actions of another. 
The only way to avoid being touched by life––the good as well as the bad––is to withdraw from society, and even then you will disappoint yourself, and your imagining about what is going on out there will haunt you and hurt you. Knowing this, there is but one solution that will support you when people and events hurt you, and that is to learn to work harder on your personal growth than anything else. Since you cannot control the weather, or the traffic, or the one you love, or your neighbors, or your boss, then you must learn to control you … the one whose response to the difficulties of life really counts.”

Thanks for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_200_-_11421_1.58_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 199 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Show notes with photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/199 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Knit Wit Yarn Shop

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Baby Yoda Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Baby Yoda Amigurumi (free crochet pattern) by LarissaMaced – @beefriendscrochet
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in Fern (green) and Soft Taupe (Beige)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Ahsoka Tano

  • Pattern: Ahsoka Tano- Star Wars Mini Amigurumi by Lucy Collin ($4.25 US at time)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
  • Hook: C (2.75)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Nanaimo Cardigan

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison. ($6.50 US Knitting Pattern)
  • Needles: US 19 (15 mm for body). US 15 (10 mm) and US 13 (9 mm) for ribbing.
  • Yarn: Casade Ecological Wool in Colorway 8018 (natural), Lion Brand Fishermen’s Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway, Noro Ito in Colorway 12 Raindance
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

Candy Color Socks

  • Yarn: Regia 4 ply in Colorway 01160
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page
  •  

Vampire Vibes Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vampires Vibes colorway. Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock (heels)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 

ADVENTure Gnome Mystery KAL

Brainstorming

  • DK weight socks for Dan. Love the Squish Base from Goosey Fibers. 75% Superwash Merino. 25% nylon. 
  • Crochet Lion Amigurumi by Melanie Willis. Available on Ravelry and Etsy for about $4.75 US.
  • Yoga socks
  • More spinning + getting back to design projects. 

Crafty Adventures

  • Oisin and Emelyn put 3 coats of primer on the blue wall in my studio & I did 2 coats of white paint. Then I got the crazy notion to rearrange my whole studio which required taking nearly everything out of it! Dan happily obliged! Slowly bringing things back around. Yarn mostly back in place. Check out Vlogmas Days 28 & 29 Video for more.
  • Dan and I painted the bathroom.
  • Vlogmas videos have been my other crafty adventure. finding new things to record each day. I am working on my editing skills. I vlogged through the whole month of December! Check it out here.

Knitting in Passing

I shared an update about video chatting with my niece Riley to help her with her sweater project.

KAL News

  • Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 
  • Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
  • Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.
  • Check out the Ravelry Thread. 
  • Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link


Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website

Important Links:

December Interception:  December Mini Skeins/Maximum Spirit Interception hosted by Yumi Yarns.Get your entries in. I will pull a winner in the next episode.


Check out the January Interception: Stash Hat Scrimmage Hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Check out the Ravelry Thread or this page .


Contest, News & Notes

Brew Buddy Growler Cozy

$4 crochet pattern in Ravelry. Use coupon code “cheer” on Ravelry through 1/10/21 to get the pattern for $3.

Life in Focus

Working on my year in Review. Planning 2021. 

Ask Me Anything

I answered listener questions posted in Instagram Stories. The first was about my making in 2020. Here’s what that looks like:

  • 209 FOs. 117 of those are washcloths.
  • Toys- 36
  • Socks 19
  • Hats- 9
  • Jar cozies- 9
  • Blankets- 8
  • Sweaters- 6
  • Growler Cozies- 4
  • Stockings- 3
  • Shawls- 3
  • Cowls- 2
  • Mitts- 2
  • Baby Rompers- 2
  • Bralette- 1
  • Trim on denim skirt- 1
  • Necklace- 1
  • Trivet-1
  • Blanket Square- 1
  • Finished 8 spinning projects and have 2 in progress. 
  • Finished one weaving project. 
  • Gifts: 65 + wash cloths

On a Happy Note

  • Santa came to see kids outside at their grandparents’ house. Hattie wasn’t thrilled.
  • I got my first haircut since January.
  • We moved my grandmother to the independent living part of an assisted living facility.
  • I checked out a newly reopened Thrift store & got a great vintage sweater and some cool handmade Christmas decorations. 
  • While Eme and Oisín painted, I watched Hattie. Teddy Ruxpin. Coloring. Playing in snow. Playing barbies. 
  • I shared a bit about our altered Christmas plans to accommodate for Covid-19.

Quote of the Week

“A man is about as big as the things that make him angry.”Winston Churchill


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_199_-_123120_1.30_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:45pm EDT

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Knit Wit Yarn Shop & Knit Style Yarns

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Black Chemo Cap

  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in Blackbird colorway
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) for brim and G (4.5 mm) for body
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Rainbow Ripple Bralette

  • Pattern: Ripple Bralette by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 US knitting pattern). Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Needles: US 2 ( 2.75 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Spunky Eclectic yarn purchased at MA sheep & wool (I think) 
  • Size Small

Nordic Christmas Gnome

  • Pattern: Nordic Christmas Gnome (free crochet pattern) by Ragnhild Hynne Uebler/Yarnhild. Link directly to website (not a Ravelry link)
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic from stash
  • Hooks: B (2.25 mm), D (3.25 mm) & J (6 mm)
  • My Ravelry Project Page

Piggie Nugget v2

Hippo Disco Socks

  • Ravelry Project Page.
  • Yarn: Lemonade Shop Simple Sock. Hippo Disco Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Riley’s Charcoal Afghan

Garret’s Crochet Wig

Wave of Change Jacket 

  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
  • Size 3
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out my Day 8 Vlogmas Video to see Mom try it on!

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Spinning

  • Fiber from Wound Up Fiber Arts
  • Base: Corriedale
  • Colorway: Prim
  • I have 2 other similar colorways and will ply them together. Not doing any color management.

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

ADVENTure Gnome Mystery KAL

Signs of the Season Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in the Signs of the Season Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Baby Yoda Amigurumi

  • Pattern: Baby Yoda Amigurumi (free crochet pattern) by LarissaMaced – @beefriendscrochet
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in Fern (green) and Soft Taupe (Beige)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

  • Getting back to my Ursa Cardigan and my Nanaimo Cardigan which I don’t think I even told you I cast on because I didn’t get very far.
  • I have a whole list of small Crochet projects I’d like to try out to make a Christmas garland or some small decorations. 

Crafty Adventures

  • I’ve only done 2 pages for my December Daily Album which I’m ok with. Forgot that December is not really the ideal time to do that because in addition to really enjoying my Christmas making— scrapbook stuff down cellar. Pellet stove isn’t on. Cold. 
  • Alo realizing, my goal i to document this stuff. I’m not feeling overly compelled to make every page a work of art. That’s fine. Taking pressure down a notch. 

KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

  • Get all of the details here. 
  • Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
  • Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.
  • Check out the Ravelry Thread. 
  • Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link

 

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website

Important Links:

Tune in to hear if you won the November Interception & check out our December Mini Skeins/Maximum Spirit Interception hosted by Yumi Yarns.

I announced November Participation prizes and will soon post the details of the 14 Grand Prize Packs we have this year!

Events

Contest, News & Notes

I released my latest shawl design- the Boxing Day Bonus Shawl (Ravelry Link). It is a sideways knit garter & eyelet shawl intended to maximize the use of mini skeins, specifically an Advent Mini Skein collection! The shawl is worked with increases in garter stitch stripes up to the center panel. The triangles are formed with German Short rows, then you decrease in garter stripes to finish off. The result is a big, cozy shawl where the rows never get too long and you’re not binding off hundreds of stitches but you still get that polished edge with the mock i-cord effect I use in so many of my pattern. Best of all- the pattern includes links to video tutorials to guide you throughout. 

Check out full details on my website or on Ravelry.

Tune in for a coupon code only for podcast listeners! You won’t find it anywhere else.

 On a Happy Note

  • Monday Nov 30th- we lost power in the evening but Dan and I worked together on getting the Christmas cards addressed and ready to mail!
  • We lost power again on Sat 12/5. It didn’t last long but we listened to the My Favorite Murder Podcast and I got sleeve of mom’s cardigan done.
  • Getting back into running!
  • 2 massages recently!
  • Zoom knit hangout with my friend Emily who you may know from the Knitting Butterflies audio podcast. Emily has been posting videos on her YouTube Channel again. Check them out here.
  • All new windows installed, and our door replacements will be finished next weekend!
  • I visited with Mom for her sweater try on and to pick up garland.  Tune in to Day 8 Vlogmas Video to see Mom’s gorgeous Christmas decorations. She says they’re scaled way down, and they are, but its still more than anyone else I know!
  • We had another rainy Saturday so we watched hours of Good Girls on Netflix and wrapped all of our Christmas gifts.
  • Getting to see our nieces and nephews (safely) and seeing Hattie experience Teddy Ruxpin Singing and Reading to her for the 1st time!

Quote of the Week

I used to spend a lot of energy trying to get further. I now spend a lot of energy trying to get better. Progress is a trajectory, not just a destination.

–Web Smith


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_198_-_121520_9.30_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:45am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 197  of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Prairie Bag Works & Irocknits

Stayed tuned to the end for a bit of bonus audio with my niece Riley!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Holly Cozy

  • Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern).
  • Hook: F (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in the Ecru Colorway. Rowan Designer Collection DK Handknit Cotton in Hastings Green & Cherry. 
  • Ravelry Project Page Link
  • Link to Holly Berry Pattern (non-Ravelry link)

Lotion Cozy

  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern).
  • Hook: F (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Rowan Designer Collection DK Handknit Cotton in Hastings Green & Cherry. 
  • Ravelry Project Page

Sweet Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Sweet Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Oisin’s Christmas Alien

Christmas is Here! Cookie

  • Pattern: Cookie by Philomena from the Christmas is Here! eBook
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash. 

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Wave of Change Jacket 

  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
  • Size 3, 45” bust because it calls for 2-4 inches of positive ease. 
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out Week 45 Video on my YouTube Channel to see Mom try it on.

Rainbow Ripple Bralette

  • Pattern: Ripple Bralette by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 US knitting pattern). Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Needles: US 2 ( 2.75 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Spunky Eclectic yarn purchased at MA sheep & wool (I think) 

Spinning 

  • Fiber from Wound Up Fiber Arts
  • Base: Corriedale
  • Colorway: Prim
  • I have 2 other similar colorways so I’m spinning all of it and will ply them together for a 3 ply yarn.

Riley’s Charcoal Afghan

Signs of the Season Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in the Signs of the Season Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Ursa

  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak
  • Needle: US 11 (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juji Fruit Colorway 
  • Yarn provided to me free for review. Tune in to hear my initial thoughts.

Hippo Disco Socks

  • Ravelry Project Page.
  • Yarn: Lemonade Shop Simple Sock. Hippo Disco Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Brainstorming

Christmas is Here! Introducing 8 free patterns written by 8 Latin American designers! Check out this link to Christmas is Here Pattern Page on Ravelry.

  • Gingerbread Man, Nutcracker, Elf Doll, Mouse, Bear, Angel, Cat with a Santa hat, Reindeer. Each of them are absolutely adorable! Crochet patterns in Spanish and English

Garret asked for a crocheted wig. I’ll be using the Afro Hair Wig by Weiyan Huang as a guide. Ravelry Link to Pattern here.

Knitting in Passing

Chatting with Riley about knitting on Zoom and seeing how her projects are coming!

KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash. Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.

Check out the Ravelry Thread. 

Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link

Pigskin Party ’20

heck out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

Check out details for the November Interception here & our newly announced December Mini Skeins/Maximum Spirit Interception hosted by Yumi Yarns.

Extra Point Challenge: Give yourself and your team 100 points for each small project (min 25 yards: less than 100 yards) you complete. To be eligible for extra points, a project must be started no earlier than 11/1/20 and completed no later than 12/25/20. Limit 5 projects per player (500 total bonus points). Check out the details on my website or on Ravelry.

Events

  • Dramatic Knits Podcast is hosting a KAL October 1-December 31, 2020 where I am the featured designer! Check out this Ravelry Post for details.  
  • BIPOC Make Along: Runs 10/1-12/18 
  • Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1, 2020. #Festivesockalong2020 
  • Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Started 9/22. 
  • Knit All the Yarn Podcast  #stockingstuffersmal2020 Check out the details in the Knit All the Yarn Podcast Ravelry Group. Runs from October 1 – December 31, 2020. No wips. Any craft is welcome!
  • The Indie Giftalong is running! Check out their Ravelry Group.The Indie Design Gift-A-Long is a 5+ week long KAL/CAL of holiday gifts made from patterns designed by a rather extensive list of independent designers. From November 24th, 2020 at 8:00 pm US EST to December 31, 2020 at midnight US EST there will be fun games, contests, and 8 KAL/CALs that will help you get your holiday knitting and crocheting done with companionship and fun! Please use #giftalong2020 and #GAL2020 

On a Happy Note

  • My daily Theragun use is making a noticeable difference.
  • I decorated the house for Christmas the weekend before Thanksgiving- except for the tree. 
  • Emelyn came home from school! Hugs! So rare these days.
  • Thanksgiving weekend. Dan and I spent the day together. PJs day (and putting up the tree).
  • I finally put up the photos I had printed on Wood Panels from Walgreens months ago.
  • Impromptu Christmas shopping with Mom!
  • I did some Christmas shopping at Savers. Video coming soon to my YouTube Channel on how I thrift.
  • Put tree in diningroom bc having windows done. 
  • Riley coming for a sleepover!

Quote of the Week

“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” – G.K. Chesterton

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_197_-_112920_3.20_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:50pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 196 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.

  • 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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Knitters Brewing CompanyKnit Style Yarns, Knit Wit Yarn Shop

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


A Good Sized Owl

  • Pattern: Owl with Hatching Owlet by Laura Sutcliffe ($2.75 US crochet pattern)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover acrylic & wool worsted/dk weight yarn
  • Safety eyes from 6060 on Etsy
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • See it in 3D in my Week 44 Video on YouTube. 

Baymax

  • Pattern: Baymax Disney Amigurumi by Catherine Johansson (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash
  • Notions: 6 mm safety eyes from 6060 on Etsy+ polyfil
  • Ravelry Project Page Link

Cuddle Bunny Mini

  • Pattern: Cuddle Bunny Mini & Pillow by Emmy Faranda ($3 US crochet pattern).
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash.
  • Ravelry Project Page

Reindeer Nugget 

Velvety Chemo Cap 

  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Bernat Crushed Velvet in the Toasted Plums colorway
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) and G (4.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Wave of Change Jacket 

  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
  • Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Check out Week 45 Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel to see Mom try it on.

Rainbow Ripple Bralette

  • Pattern: Ripple Bralette by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 US knitting pattern). Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Needles: US 2 ( 2.75 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Spunky Eclectic yarn purchased at MA sheep & wool (I think) 
  • Started with Size XS. Ripped out and cast back on for size Small.

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

Sweet Stripes Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Sweet Stripes Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Ravelry Project Page

Signs of the Season Socks

  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in the Signs of the Season Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

Thinking about making differently as we enter a safer at home winter season. Tune in to hear my musings about how my interests and choices have changed during the pandemic.

I’m going to cast on a bulky weight crochet blanket for my niece, Riley. Do you have a favorite washable, super bulky yarn that’s great for gifts?

Crafty Adventures

  • I ordered our Christmas cards from Snapfish.
  • I finally finished a scrappy curtain to hide storage space under my desk in my craft room. See more in my Week 44 Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
  • I spent time last Saturday on December Daily prep.
    • Went through photos already printed out.
    • Gathered supplies. Paper, photos, page protectors
    • Organized by type- full paper, scraps of paper, embellishments, tools.  
    • Made list of stories I want to tell based on photos already printed.
    • Check out Week 45 Video on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel to see more.

Knitting in Passing

  • Talking to Riley on video chat about knitting. She finished a cowl she’s been working on.
  • Trying to figure out what her next project will be.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry. Check out the Ravelry Thread. 

Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

  • November Interception Sponsored by Fibernymph Dye WorksPunt!
    • Sometimes during the game, a team needs to just call it like it is, switch up the direction of play and punt the ball to the other team. We’ve all gotten a lot of practice with punting things in 2020. For the November Interception sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works, we’re going to see what projects you need to punt to make them work for you. This challenge is all about making substitutions from what a pattern calls for as a way of making sure it works for you (your materials, your skill levels, your aesthetic preference etc).
    • Check out this thread in the Ravelry Group or the full details posted on my website.

Events

Life in Focus

  • 2 library visits (check off my 20 for 2020 list)
  • I’ve been making more pages in the Project Life App for my 2018 album. I’m up to week 40, so only 12 left to do! Can definitely finish before the end of this year. 

On a Happy Note

  • Our 1st snow.
  • A belated Halloween celebration.
  • Mom’s sweater try on.
  • Refinishing my great Aunt Milly’s old desk with my best friend.
  • My new overalls!
  • Exploring new trails that opened up in my town- even when I got lost!
  • Election results. Work for social justice and improvements to the way we treat our planet among other things are still going to require effort so I’ve signed up with Vote Save America to get more information on how to volunteer help out in Georgia’s run off election.
  • Our new backhoe!

Quote of the Week

“One of the consolations of old age is the intense pleasure I now get from nature. It seems that in youth I was too busy confronting life and experience to stand still and gaze.”

– P. D. James

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_196_-_111320_11.17_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 195 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes & photos can be found on my website.

This week’s segments included:

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Knit Wit Yarn Shop, Imagined LandscapesInvictus Yarns, JDStudios480

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Cake Party Socks- Take 2

  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarn Pix in the Cake Party Colorway & Patons Kroy (cuffs, heels, toes)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams. Link to my Ravelry Project Page. 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Black is the New Orange Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts 80/20 SW Merino, Nylon Self Striping in the Black is the New Orange Colorway

Nanaimo Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page)

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan (website link) by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • US 15 (10.0 mm)
  • US 19 (15.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in the Blackstone Colorway- Black with maroons, grays, browns. Trying small. Only 4 sts different in collar than Medium but with Super Bulky that makes a difference.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Tranquility Scarf

Wave of Change Jacket

  • Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US). Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Yarn: Battenkill Fibers Yarn Mom purchased at Rhinebeck 2019 (9 skeins in blue)- bulky 
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)

Cozy Classic Raglan 

Rainbow Ripple Bralette

  • Pattern: Ripple Bralette by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 US knitting pattern). Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
  • Needles: US 2 ( 2.75 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Spunky Eclectic yarn purchased at MA sheep & wool (I think) 

Gram’s Christmas Socks

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

Brainstorming

I talked about how I’ve set up my shawls in my closet to make sure I wear them all (instead of re-wearing the ones I love most).

 From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

  • Check out my new autumn video recorded during Rhinebeck weekend. Fall 2020: Around Town & Around the House video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
  • December Daily. Memory Keeping project started by Ali Edwards where you tell 1 story a day each day in December. Won’t be doing a lot of our “normal” holiday things this year- put that time into documenting traditions and highlights of holidays gone by. 
  • I’m thinking of doing Vlogmas this year. What do you think? What do you want to see?

KAL News


Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.

Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.Check out the Ravelry Thread. 

Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link


Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

  • VTKimmyKim- hosting a Netflix Party movie night on November 7th at 8:00pm EST. Movie= Wine Country. Check out this and other pop-up events in this thread in the Ravelry Group— or host your announce and share it here.
  • November Interception Sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works: Punt!
    • Sometimes during the game, a team needs to just call it like it is, switch up the direction of play and punt the ball to the other team. We’ve all gotten a lot of practice with punting things in 2020. For the November Interception sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works, we’re going to see what projects you need to punt to make them work for you. This challenge is all about making substitutions from what a pattern calls for as a way of making sure it works for you (your materials, your skill levels, your aesthetic preference etc).
    • Check out this thread in the Ravelry Group or the full details posted on my website.
  • Tune in to hear if you’re a Participation Winner for the month of October.

Events

Virtual Vogue Knitting Live- November 2020

  • For those of you who did our Pigskin Virtual Kick off Pre-game Stretch with Mara- just a heads up that Mara will be doing her first ever event with Vogue. Her stretching class for makers will be available as marketplace extra so if you’ve signed up for a class you can join in on this too!

Life in Focus

  • I had an invigorating chat with about planners and goal setting with my friend Melissa. I talked a little about how I’m doing things these days. Has the pandemic changed the way you plan your days/weeks/months?
  • Want to hear more of my thoughts on planning? Check out my latest YouTube Video: Getting Organized, Setting Goals & Making the Most of 2020. This was a talk I did in January 2020.

On a Happy Note

  • I got out to Vote! Hope you will too
  • Spent time with mom working on a memory keeping project for a friend. Looked through old photos and things while I was there. 
  • 2 trips to the library lately. Pick up quick visit only- can’t really stay and browse but that’s another thing off my 20 for 2020 list!
  • Foliage! I adore it
  • Getting back into working out after cortisone shot- inflamed sciatic nerve. Not fun. Back to regular massages though fear that will be cut off at some point with Covid numbers going back up in the US. Theragun daily seems to be making a difference in my most sore spots. 
  • Boxing Day Bonus Shawl is being knit up by test knitters. SO excited about some of the color combos they’re using! My fav part. Folks often choose colors/combos I don’t think of.
  • Texting with my niece Eme who is away at college, photos she took for her photography class.
  • Texts from my SIL with my youngest niece Gabriella snuggled in the blanket I crocheted for her. 
  • Cool weather for hand knits. 
  • Happy mail- advent swap package! Check out For the Love of Minnies Group on Ravelry. Thank you Stephanie, not sure if you listen. 
  • Also mailed an homemade yarn advent calendar to Sue of Legacy Fiber arts. She worked so hard on the ones for her shop. Doesn’t remember to keep one for herself. I figured she’s putting SO much joy out into the world, I wanted her to get some back. Had a BLAST working on it. SB supplies, stamping etc. 

Quote of the Week

“Success is largely the failures you avoid. Health is the injuries you don’t sustain. Wealth is the purchases you don’t make. Happiness is the objects you don’t desire. Peace of mind is the arguments you don’t engage. Avoid the bad to protect the good.”

-James Clear

Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_195_-_102920_3.47_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 194 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Cookie and BeesKnit Wit Yarn ShopFibernymph Dye Works AdoreKnit

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Bella Cosa Shawl

  • Pattern: Bella Cosa Shawl (free crochet pattern on Ravelry) by Stitch with Passion Crochet
  • Hook: J 6.0 mm
  • Yarn: Madelinetosh Tosh DK. No colorway listed. 

 

Autumn Garland

Materials:

  • Yarn: DK & Worsted scraps
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm) or D (3.25 mm)

Gnoel Gnome

  • Pattern: Gno Fun Like Gnome Fun by Sarah Shira, Imagined Landscapes (Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor). Ravelry Project Page Link.
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm).
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: leftover worsted & DK weight from stash.
  • Crocheted the body (dusty pink yarn), and stuffed. Knit hat top down as written using a mustard color from Gale’s Art (DK). Stuffed and sewed to body. Knit beard and arms per pattern and sewed on.

Gnori Gnome 

  • Pattern: None; crocheted. Improvised
  • Hook: C (2.75mm)
  • Yarn: Leftover DK weight yarn in stash
  • Link to my Ravelry Project Page

Pumpkin Jar Cozy 

  • Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern)- Ravelry Link or LoveCrafts Link.
  • Hook G (4.25 mm) & F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in the Ecru & Orange Colorways
  • Sewed on crochet appliqué I’d already made. Check out the Ravelry Project Page for that FO.

Nanaimo Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page)

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan (website link) by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • US 15 (10.0 mm)
  • US 19 (15.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick 
  • I saw Arthella from Best Day Ever Crafting Podcast working on hers. She saw it on the Knit State of Mind Podcast (Episode 16) when Wanda recently finished hers. 

Declan 1st Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Grey Brown Marl Colorway with Flax for heel
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Christmas with the Gilmores Socks

 

Black is the New Orange Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts 80/20 SW Merino, Nylon Self Striping in the Black is the New Orange Colorway

Nanaimo Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page)

  • Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan (website link) by Tara-Lynn Morrison
  • US 15 (10.0 mm)
  • US 19 (15.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in the Blackstone Colorway

Brainstorming

Tara, Arianrod on Ravelry, PMed me about the Continuous Mitered Square Blanket by Kara Gunza. DK weight crochet blanket. Looks like knit mitered squares.

Scandinavian Gnome by Lizz Jelsma. Crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on MakeItSewCrochet website.

Starting kids Christmas toys. I need silver glittery yarn for Oisin’s custom alien. Ideas? 

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

  • Rubber Stamping & Embossing. Made some gift tags and Christmas cards. They all need some finishing touches and parts are for a surprise gift so I’ll share later in the season but it felt great getting back into a hobby that I started 25 years ago! 
  • Check out my first ever Day in the Life Vlog on my Down Cellar Studio Podcast YouTube Channel
 

Knitting in Passing

  • I wore my Ninilchik Swoncho to Joann’s. The cashier at Joann asked if I minded sharing where I bought my sweater because she loved it and wanted to buy one. I told her I knit it. She’s just learning to crochet. I told her, she could definitely do this. Just keep learning.
  • Dan got a nice text from his friend for whom I crocheted a baby blanket when their first granddaughter was due this summer. He thanked us again for her blanket saying it’s her favorite. So sweet.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.

Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.Check out the Ravelry Thread. 

Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

October Interception For this Interception you’re going to blend two (or more) colorways together in one project. You can marl them, use stripes, use one as an accent against a main color. You decide how to pair them up. A 2 color shawl, socks with contrast cuffs/heels/toes, a striped hat. As long as it’s at least 100 yards, it counts for this challenge. 

To be eligible to win

  • Complete a project of at least 100 yards that uses the 2 colors. If you want to make multiple small projects, the total must be over 100 yards.
  • Project must have been cast on on/after 10/1/20 and completed by 10/31/20
  • Post your FO with a description and/or photo that shows how you’re meeting the challenge.
  • 1 entry for your FO (or group of small FOs). Post your FO in the October Interception Thread in the Ravelry Group. 
  • Players not on Ravelry can post on Instagram with #DCSPigskinComeTogether. You may only enter in one place- Ravelry OR Instagram. 
  • 1 additional entry in each place if you use one or more colorways from Holly Press Fibers. 
  • Total of 2 entries Max per player (1 for your FO + 1 for using Holly Press Fibers Yarn)
  • Prize: $30 Holly Press Fibers Gift Certificate (note- no additional points will be offered for completing this Interception. You can still enter for points for this project as usual).

Pop-Up Events

  • 30 Day Tailgate Talk Challenge Over on Friday! Did you like it? Should we do it another? For points? Or not for points?
  • Kick Off Challenge- 50 pts for each FO you cast on in first 2 weeks of Pigskin Party. Limited time to enter for these points. Check out Details on Ravelry or on my website.
  • Ravelry User VTKimmyKim is hosting a Netflix Party Movie Night on November 7th at 8:00pm EST. Movie TBD. Check out this and other pop-up events in this thread in the Ravelry Group— or host your announce and share it here.

Events

Tune in to hear about my classes with Virtual Vogue Knitting Live– October 9-11

  • Virtual Kick off event Thursday evening with Josh Bennett and London Kaye. Lots of fun.  Keynote on Saturday with Jared Flood.
    • Friday, October 9, 2020 Beginning Brioche- Faina Goberstein.
    • Saturday, October 10, 2020 Brioche and Beyond- Olga Jazzy.
    • Sunday, October 11, 2020 Inclusive Size Shawls – Kim McBrian Evans.

Contest, News & Notes

Call for Testers-want to knit a sideways fingering weight shawl that calls for 20 calls/ 200g total? Message me!

Life in Focus

I’ve had a tough couple weeks with pain. Lessons learned:

  1. Listen to your body. Adjusting your plans/goals to be kind to the only body you get is absolutely OK.
  2. Don’t skip stretching. It’s important!
  3. Adjusting my routine can and often is a good thing. Waking up early to walk in the summer because it was light already and would be too hot later was a good idea. Now its dark at 5:45a… Its time to adjust. It shouldn’t take THIS hitting me so hard to get me there, but it sorta did. I’m just getting back to things now but I’m going to start thinking about what my routine looks like. I’ll be active and I do like having a routine. Habits work well for me… but that can look different in different seasons. 

On a Happy Note

  • A 2 hour deep tissue massage with my favorite massage therapist.
  • Ordered a Theragun Pro with permission of my Rheumatologist using Flex Spending money. Not sure what a Theragun is- check out this article from CNet
  • Home delivery from our local dairy Hornstra Farms!
  • Outdoor get together for Dad’s birthday at my brother’s & watching Riley and Millie in their neighborhood production of Our Little Mermaid.
  • I checked my ballot status- it has been mailed to me! I look forward to submitting it! Go out and Vote!

Quote of the Week

  • “Our political leaders will know our priorities only if we tell them, again and again, and if those priorities begin to show up in the polls.” -Peggy Noonan
  • “Not Voting is not a protest. It is a surrender.” -Keith Ellison


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_194_-_101520_5.11_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:23pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 193 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website: 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Knit Wit Yarn ShopCookie & Beesagirlandherwool & Sunsoaked Yarns.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Eme’s Halloween Garland 

Materials:

  • Yarn: DK & Worsted scraps
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm) or D (3.25 mm)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Bella Cosa Shawl

  • Pattern: Bella Cosa Shawl (free crochet pattern on Ravelry) by Stitch with Passion Crochet
  • Hook: J 6.0 mm
  • Yarn: Madelinetosh Tosh DK. No colorway listed. 

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns (Badger Black Colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino (Cherries Jubilee Colorway)

Black is the New Orange Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts 80/20 SW Merino, Nylon Self Striping in the Black is the New Orange Colorway
  • Using my handmade Hello Kitty Halloween Project bag. 
 

Scrappy Sparkly Halloween Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Some scraps. Some Knitty & Color minis 

Declan 1st Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Grey Brown Marl Colorway with Flax for heel
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Vampire Vibes Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vampires Vibes colorway. Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock (heels)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Fall Garlands

Brainstorming

I’m having a hard time finding a lion crochet toy pattern I like (and that isn’t too large). This Lion Amigurumi is kind of cute.

I keep browsing the bundle of patterns from Pigskin ’20 Sponsors. Thank you Zoom Dog Knits for putting this together.

 

From the Armchair

Listener Mary sent this tutorial for joining granny squares. Check out this link to the zigzag slip stitch join tutorial. 

I scored two great crafty books at Savers. Spent less than $6 for the pair! 

  • Basic Crochet Stitches: 250 Stitches to Crochet. Edited by Erika Knight.
  • Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book

Knitting in Passing

I told stories about knitting with my 2 year old niece, Hattie, and her wearing my handknit socks. When she’s big she wants her own knitting and a bag for her knitting.

My best friend wants a gnome after seeing mine. Link to my Ravelry Project.

A family friend, age 16, asked me for handknit socks. So sweet.

 KAL News


Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. Quarter 3: July 1- September 30 – Lessen the Library– check out the Ravelry Thread here

.Quarter 3 SponsorsSunsoaked YarnsApple Fiber StudioCookie and BeesDon’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests & #LessentheLibrary 
I will pull Q3 winners in next episode

October 1- December 31: Slay the Stash
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years gains you an extra entry.

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website

Important Links:

Important Details shared this episode: check out the October Interception on my website or on Ravelry.

Events

Ask Me Anything

In Episode 192- Timenow13 on Instagram asked about listening to older episode of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. You can download The Podcast App– available for Apple + Android and go all the way back to Episode 1 (like I did this week. WOW!)

On a Happy Note

  • A clean house, decorated for fall!
  • We had a small social distant gathering at the house. Oisin, Will, Aila, and Declan were here working in the woods all day. Their parents came in the evening for a beer and some pizza. We had a camp fire and my best friend brought s’mores stuff. 
  • I found another new trail. I’m enjoying watching the leaves falling and seeing our neighbors’ goats out and about.
  • When boys working in the yarn I took my grabber and cleaned up our frontage of so much litter! 
  • Making soups. Currently loving this Asiago Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup
  • Fresh garlic from our friend’s garden. 

Quote of the Week

“Life is a train of moods like a string of beads, and as we pass through them, they prove to be many-colored lenses which paint the world their own hue, and each shows only what lies in its focus.”– Ralph Waldo Emerson


Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_193_-_92920_12.42_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 192 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes & photos on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/192 

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Knit Wit Yarn Shop & YumiYarns

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Gno Fun Like Gnome Fun (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: Gno Fun Like Gnome Fun by Sarah Schira $7 Canadian knitting pattern
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Body: Gale’s Art Super Star DK (mustard), Hat: Madeline Tosh Tosh Vintage (in a one of a kind blue/green). Beard/skin: Cascade Eco Alpaca, Natural

Flat Crocheted Pumpkin: Ravelry Project Page

  • Pattern: Special Holiday Issue of Workbasket Magazine Oct/Nov 1993
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Scraps DK
  •  

Pumpkin 

  • Pattern: Pumpkin Garland by Eva Polaripop (free crochet pattern). Ravelry LinkWebsite Link.
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Leftover DK weight scraps

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Spinning Shetland 4 oz

Freewheeler Sweater

  • Pattern: Freewheeler by Kristen Finlay (Ravelry Link) $11 AUD (~$8.35 US)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Yarn (held double): Holiday Yarns (in a gray colorway); CeCe’s Wool Yarn Baby! 1120 yards fingering weight Superwash Merino in the Cherries Jubilee colorway
  • Saw this sweater on Rose Hip Knits Podcast on YouTube. The host, Hanna, was a test knitter. 

Vampire Vibes Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vampires Vibes colorway. Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock (heels)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Fall Garlands

Materials:

  • Yarn: DK & Worsted scraps
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm) or D (3.25 mm)

Plan is to make a garland for my niece Emelyn who just moved away for college; and a set for myself. One might be more Halloween themed and one more fall themed.

Black is the New Orange Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts 80/20 SW Merino, Nylon Self Striping in the Black is the New Orange Colorway
  • Using my handmade Hello Kitty Halloween Project bag. 

Scrappy Sparkly Halloween Socks- Ravelry Project Page Link

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Some scraps. Some Knitty & Color minis 


Brainstorming

  • I purchased all of the new Patons Kroy colorways available from Yarnspirations website. 
  • I purchased some fiber. Some from a destash & some from Wound Up Fiber Arts. I purchased some Corriedale.
  • Shawl wearing Thanks to IG user: spincess514, Diana, who mentioned the #shawtember hashtag.
  • I want to knit all the sweaters. Colorwork. DK. Swoncho. Boxy. Browsing Ravelry, IG, Pinterest. Do you have any favorites?

From the Armchair

Knitting in Passing

Tune in to hear a review of my Virtual Vogue Knitting live classes 
1. Legin Innovation Uplifting Crochet Class with LeginKnits.

2. Josh Bennett’s Design Workshop: Building Your Design Identity- highly recommend.

3. Five Crochet Shawls: An Exploration of Shapes and Constructions Cecilia Losada

KAL News


Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. Quarter 3: July 1- September 30 – Lessen the Library– check out the Ravelry Thread here.

Quarter 3 SponsorsSunsoaked YarnsApple Fiber StudioCookie and BeesDon’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash

 

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

Updates in this episode:

  • This year, everyone is a team to provide you a small group to chat with and get to know. The teams roll up into 3 Conferences. Wendy heads up the Alpaca Football Conference (AFC), Lisa heads up the Sheep Football Conference (SFC) and I’m heading up the Llama Football Conference (LFC).
  • Play around with the Points Tally form to practice. That will be wiped on Friday night 9/18.
  • Participants can enter any pre-game points they’re eligible for starting on Saturday 9/19 (but remember you cannot cast on until 9/25). 
  • Stay tuned for a 30 Day Challenge that will help us get to know each other.
  • Join us for our Virtual Kick Off on 9/25 & 26. Details can be found in the Ravelry Groupand on my website.
  • I will be sending out an email newsletter later this week with key Pigskin reminders and links. I am also creating a PDF printable that lets you plan out your projects if you’re the paper planner type. Not on my email list yet? Sign up now and you’ll automatically have it sent to you 24 hours after you sign up. 
  • It is never too late to join in the Pigskin Party. Fill out the Sign up Form anytime. We’d love to have you.

Events

Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, ran from May 22- August 22, 2020. Thank you to everyone who posted/commented that you enjoyed challenge between Jasmin and me. Jasmin shared the results on the Knitmore Girls Podcast Episode 593.

  • Results: Jasmin- 18,816 meters. Jen- 28,557 meters
  • Tune in to hear my breakdown by craft and project type.
  • In theory, the loser our of little private competition donates money to charity, but it’s become something we both have committed to regardless of the outcome. This year, with employer matching we were able to give $200 each to Black Lives Matter, the NAACP & ActBlue. If you’ve gotten something out of this challenge, we encourage you to donate to one of these causes or something that speaks to your value.
  • Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1 #Festivesockalong2020 
  • Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for #gilmorealong2020 on Instagram. Begins on 9/22. I bought yarn from Area 51 Fibres. Can’t wait!

Contest, News & Notes

Ask Me Anything

  • Happyjustknitting asked: With Stash Dash over, do you still have WIPs or are you working on casting new things/spinning? Tune in to hear my answer.
  • Timenow13 on Instagram Megan asks “Hi, I have two questions. I have recently found your podcast and love it, I’ve listened to it backwards to episode 91 on Apple podcast and I would love to listen to the rest but I’m not sure if they are available anywhere? My second question is if you have any tips for being in a transitional knitting place? I have only ever done flat things mostly washcloths and baby blankets, I finally finished my first piece of lace. I want to start doing hats or mittens or maybe ever a sweater but it all seems like a big jump. Any tips?”
    • You can listen to all of my back episodes directly from my podcast host Libsyn. Click on the POD icon next to the episode name to play an episode. This should work well on mobile or desktop.
    • Taking knitting to the next step- my best advice is “Go where your interest lies.” After scarves I went to hats. I started top down with the Hill Country Hat (Ravelry Link)  by Clara Parkes, which isn’t typical but I thought that would be easy to measure. The great thing w/ hats is they don’t take long and it will fit SOMEONE. Other easy patterns I tried: Neighborly- Ravelry Link (kid’s vest) by Jennifer Casa (Free) & 5-hour baby sweater (cardigan)- Ravelry Link by Courtney Filner (free)
    • I also recommend Tin Can Knits Simple Collection- Ravelry Link.

On a Happy Note

  • Starbucks Cold Brew with Dark Cocoa Almondmilk Foam
  • Found a new longer trail local nature preserve!
  • Big upgrade at work has gone well and more importantly- its mostly behind us!
  • Dan bought me a Li’l Sebastian Mug (which he purchased online as we binged Season 7 of Parks and Recreation)
  • Great to see my cousin Gayle who came down for a visit!
  • Fridge and freezer broke (not so happy) but with a recommendation on a local repair shop, it was fixed the same day we called!
  • Cool enough weather to wear handknits- I wore to my Soldotna for visit to Staci’s Stitches. 

Quote of the Week

Humor is the antidote to overthinking. It’s a way of saying that life is paradoxical. Humor contains contradictions; it does not resolve them but revels in them. It says that the right way to exist among the contradictions, paradoxes, and absurdities of life is to cope with them through laughter. — Bob Mankoff


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_192_-_91520_12.14_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 191 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos please check out my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbin
  • 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 sponsor: Knit Wit Yarn Shop

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Cedar River Blanket (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern Cedar River Blanket by Kat Goldin (free crochet pattern) Non-Ravelry Link
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in White, Light Gray, Yellow, Dark Charcoal & Black
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Simple border- light gray, yellow, black. 
  • 16 squares total- 780g. 1602 yards/1464 meters

Hibernate Blanket (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: Hibernate Blanket by Yarnspirations Design Studio (free crochet pattern), Non-Ravelry Link
  • Hook: L (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Camo Colorway held double with Bernat Softee Chunky
  • Stash Dash: 1658 meters.

Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: Queensland Collection Perth in the Alice Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl by Michelle Ferguson (crochet pattern $5) Etsy Link
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)
  • 736.0 meters / 804.9 yards. 184 grams

Winnie Sanderson Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Winnie Sanderson Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Micro Sock kits. Very affordable. 50g MC. 20g mini.  $21 
  • 236 meters

Cake Party Socks #2 (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarn Pix in the Cake Party Colorway + Patons Kroy for contrasting cuffs, heels and toes. 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Finished 1 sock. 151 meters

Rainbow Growler Cozy (Ravelry Link) Growler Cozy in Blues (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up
  • Hooks: J, K & L (6mm, 6.5 mm and 8 mm)
  • Pattern: my own design. Not yet released
  • 160 meters each.
  • Yarn held doubled throughout. For the Rainbow one, I held black doubled for bottom, then switched to pink/cream, purple/cream up through the rainbow. Curves a bit around the front and has an open spot with ties you can tie around the handle on the back. 

Grass & Sky 32oz Jar Cozy (Ravelry Link) Sunflower Rib 32oz Jar Cozy (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up
  • Hooks: J, K & L (6mm, 6.5 mm and 8 mm)
  • Pattern: my own design. Not yet released
  • 139 meters total for these 2 

EmPower People Cowl 1 & 2

  • Ravelry Project Page for Cowl 1 Cowl 2
  • Pattern: emPower People (non-Ravelry link) by Laverne Benton (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Woolbearers Gradient Sets. 5 colors, I used 3. Held double with each other, and some with a Knitters Brewing Co Sockaholic II

Caribbean Hues Yarn

  • Ravelry Handspun Page
  • Fiber: Merino from Beesy Bee Fibers in the Caribbean Hues Colorway
  • 5 colors of blues and greens.
  • 3 ply yarn. 173 meters for 4 oz. 
  • Stash Dash- 692 meters

Recently heard on the Knit Boop Podcast that Yu Ra saves random singles and plies together into a scrappy skein when she has a bunch. Totally doing that with my leftovers.

Brainstorming

  • Come share your best tips for patterns that work well for knitting or crocheting with handspun. Click here for a link to a thread in our Ravelry Group. Or email me with suggestions! 
  • I will be working from home through June 2021. Thinking about a shawl rotation & also what new shawls & sweaters I want to add to my wardrobe.
  • I think the Dathan Pullover (Ravelry Link) by Kate Davies could be a good way to add to my wardrobe and use handspun. Link to purchase a kit.

From the Armchair

Knit State of Mind (YouTube) with Wanda and Heather 
Thread to Mend Podcast (YouTube) with Taylor Owen.
Bella’s Custom Crochets (YouTube). Check out her crochet designs on her website- Bella’s Custom Crochets
Floss Toss (YouTube) with Rachel & Sue. Rachel is also the host of the Treehouse Knits Podcast (YouTube). Sue co-hosts Legacy Fiber Artz Podcast (YouTube) with her daughter Chelsea.

Knitting in Passing

  • Eme texting me while packing for school.
  • Aila asked for mini versions of her stuffies for Christmas. 
  • Millie asked for a “good sized owl” for Christmas and a horse for her birthday. 
  • My cousin Joe reached out after he saw the llama I made for Eme and asked for a Lion for his new daughter, Victoria. 
  • I started teaching my niece Aila to spin. Did some crochet talk with my friend Cheri. 
  • Hattie (2 1/2) has been asking to knit with me.
  • My sister-in-law texted me to say my nephew Garret’s “only Nana blanket” needs repair. 

KAL News


Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

Quarter 3: July 1- September 30 – Lessen the Library– check out the Ravelry Thread here.

Quarter 3 SponsorsSunsoaked YarnsApple Fiber StudioCookie and BeesDon’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash

Pigskin Party ’20

Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread  on Ravelry or on my website
Important Links:

Important Updates in this Episode: Save the date for our Virtual Events Friday 9/25 & Saturday 9/26.

Events

Life in Focus

I checked a few more things off my 20 in 2020 List

  • Go to MFA- replaced with day trip De Cordova Sculpture Park
  • Car detailed. Riley and Millie 
  • Take a Yoga Class- Yoga for Tension Relief

On a Happy Note

  • Vacation.
  • Ice cream with Dan at local dairy. 
  • Cooler nights which are great for sleeping. 
  • Went out on friends boat. Lobstering. 
  • I got to test drive our new tractor.
  • Beach day followed by my grandmother’s 86th birthday dinner. She loved her shawl.
  • My sister-in-law texted me photos of my new niece in her romper and blanket. So thoughtful! 
  • I voted in the MA primary. Check out the Vote Save America website to learn more. 
  • Quieter weekends!
  • The Office Ladies podcast.

Quote of the Week

If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit. -BANKSY


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_191_-_83020_1.53_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:22pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 190 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes with photos on my website.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: APL Crafts & Knit Wit Yarn Shop

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Finished blanket 466g. 2 skeins of Lion Brand Sock Ease. Rest was scraps. 
  • 1,777 meters for Stash Dash

Summer Camp Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Summer Camp Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 66g total= 262 meters for Stash Dash

Lucy the (Almost) No Sew Llama (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: Lucy the (Almost) No Sew Llama by Crystal Mihaylo Pickrel ($6 crochet pattern) Etsy Link
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable (White) & Bernat Pipsqueak in Whitey White
  • Scarf: Spunky Eclectic Rainbow Fingering + Solid Red sock yarn scraps
  • 88 meters- white  49 meters- fluffy = 137 meters used for llama
  • 33 meters of yarn used for scarf
  • Stash Dash total for project: 174 meters

Sally Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Sally Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Second sock knit as part of Natalie of Knitty Natty Podcast’s Sock Week 2020 
  • 238 meters 

Spinning Tequila Sunrise Cheviot (Ravelry Link) by Blueberry Chick Yarn (Non-Ravelry Link) 

  • Fiber: 4oz Cheviot
  • Spun on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
  • Spun Z twist (Clockwise), plied S twist (counter-clockwise)
  • 3 ply yarn
  • July 11- August 4th. Didn’t spin every day
  • 550 yards (light fingering/heavy lace)?
  • Stash Dash Meters 2011

Spinning Beesy Bee Gelato (Ravelry Link)

  • Fiber: 4oz  Beesy Bee Fibers– 85% Merino, 15% Recycled Sari Silk (Non-Ravelry Link)
  • First Merino spin. Very slippery. Trying not to go too thin. 
  • 201 meters of a 3 ply (worsted/heavy DK)
  • Stash Dash total: 804 meters

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Cedar River Blanket (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern Cedar River Blanket by Kat Goldin (free crochet pattern) Non-Ravelry Link
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in White, Light Gray, Yellow, Dark Charcoal & Black
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • C2C crochet squares that you seam together so that the diagonal stripes when pieced together form diamonds.
  • I am making the small throw size (16 squares). Mattress stitched together instead of dc2tog because I liked the look.

Hibernate Blanket (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: Hibernate Blanket by Yarnspirations Design Studio (free crochet pattern), Non-Ravelry Link
  • Hook: L (8.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Camo Colorway held double with Bernat Softee Chunky

Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl (Ravelry Link)

  • Yarn: Queensland Collection Perth in the Alice Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl by Michelle Ferguson (crochet pattern $5) Etsy Link
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)

Winnie Sanderson Socks (Ravelry Link)

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Winnie Sanderson Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Micro Sock kits. Very affordable. 50g MC. 20g mini. 

Brainstorming

  • All the design projects! 
  • Knit Picks Felici socks
  • Stalking wide scarves that almost look a vest with big deep pockets at the bottom.  Cozy Fireside Wrap by Kristen Caldwell- crochet pattern. Ravelry LinkDirect Website link.

From the Armchair

Vogue Knitting Live Virtual Class: How to Use Handspun for Knitting with Heavenly Blesser

KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Quarter 3: July 1- September 30 – Lessen the Library– check out the Ravelry Thread here. Quarter 3 SponsorsSunsoaked YarnsApple Fiber StudioCookie and Bees

Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests & #LessentheLibrary

Splash Pad Party – Tune in to hear if you’re a winner!

Pigskin Party

  • Do you want to sponsor? Check out this page on my website and fill out the Google Form.
  • Check out the Updated Rules before you sign up.
  • This year all FOs will be entered on the Points Tally Form. We’ll still have an End Zone Dance Thread for commenting and celebrating.
  • Where can you find all the key details and links you want/need? The Pigskin Party Page on my website and the Start Here Thread in Ravelry,
  • I will post in Instagram Stories any pertinent updates and save them to a Pigskin ’20 Highlights on my main page
  • We’ll kick off with Virtual Events 9/25 & 9/26 similar to what we did for the Splash Pad Party kick off. Details to follow

List of Sponsors (to date: This list will be updated)

For links & more details click here.

Pro Shop Sponsor Snack Shack
2 Guys Yarn Company A Hundred Ravens
AdoreKnit Anne Beady Designs
agirlandherwool Holly Press Fibers
Cookie & Bees Kino Knits
Designs of Acadia  knidhiknits
Fair Winds Farm Knit/Wit Designs
Fibernymph Dye Works Legacy Fiber Artz
Imagined Landscapes Designs Lilliput Yarn
IrocKnits Designs Love in Stitches 
JDStudios480 Samantha Guerin Design
Jennifer Lassonde Designs Shanalines Designs
Knit Style Yarns  Spargur Yarn Co
Knitters Brewing Company Tamy Gore
KnitWit Yarn Shop The Crazy Sock Lady Designs
Prairie Bag Works Yumi Yarns Designs
Rising Tide Fiber Co  
Sunsoaked Yarns  

Events

Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group

Life in Focus

On a Happy Note

  • Visit to Stellwagen Beer Company.
  • We have a new niece- Gabriella Grace!
  • Foraging for wild blueberries with Mom
  • Video chat with Millie on Facetime using funny filters
  • Dropped off an entire car load of donations to Savers. 
  • Millie’s softball game & Oisin’s baseball game.
  • Tropical storm blew through and we didn’t lose power! 
  • Met up with Lisa to plan out this year of the Pigskin Party! 
  • Kayaking
  • Aila’s voice recital on a Family Zoom

Quote of the Week

Olympic gold medalist Wilma Rudolph 

“Winning is great, sure, but if you are really going to do something in life, the secret is learning how to lose. Nobody goes undefeated all the time. If you can pick up after a crushing defeat, and go on to win again, you are going to be a champion someday.”


Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_190_-_81520_3.55_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:03pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 189 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here. 

This week’s segments included:

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


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Holly Press Fibers 

Many links below are links to Ravelry, but where other links were available I have noted that specifically. 

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Teddy’s Christmas Stocking

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine (Non Ravelry Link)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted in Red, White and Everglade Heather
  • Hook: F (3.75 mm)
  • A very special thank you to listener- Annette- Readorknit on Ravelry who sent me her copy of Family Circle 1977 that contains this pattern!
  • Stash Dash total: 460 meters

Altered Denim Skirt

  • Yarn: One Twisted Tree Prime in the Gulf Colorway 
  • Hook: B & C Hooks
  • Pattern: None
  • Yarn: One Twisted Tree Prime base in the Gulf colorway 
  • Yarn leftover from Riley Rose shawl sample- Caribbean blue waters.
  • Bought the skirt at Savers & thought it would be perfect to jazz up with some crochet trim. 
  • 10g used for bottom trim and pockets.
  • Belt- C hook. 18g used
  • 117 meters Stash Dash

Cake Party Christmas Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarn Pix in the Cake Party Colorway + Patons Kroy in Red for heels, cuffs & toes
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Finished socks used 72g total: 44g of the main and 28g contrast color, so I have enough to make another pair. 
  • Stash Dash Total: 271 meters

To Knit or to Hike Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Sock in the To Knit or To Hike Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Finished socks are 64g.
  • Stash Dash: 270 meters. 

Summer 2020 Wash Cloths Round 2

  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (Non- Ravelry Link)
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream 
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • 70 granny squares (4 rounds each). I also did one large hexi, 1 large circle and 2 small circle cloths for make up removal 
  • Stash Dash: 1518 meters

Spinning

3 ply- 2 Corriedale, 1 BFL

  • 24 grams
  • 67 meters
  • Stash Dash total: 268 meters.


Beesy Bee Fibers- Cream Corriedale

  • Total 2 ply
  • 210g 
  • 1,258 meters
  • Stash Dash Total= 3774

Beesy Fibers 4oz Natural BFL

  • Total 2 ply: 98 grams
  • 431 meters
  • Stash Dash Meters: 1,293

This episode’s Stash Dash Total: 18,881 meters

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl

  • Yarn: Queensland Collection Perth in the Alice Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl by Michelle Ferguson (crochet pattern $5)
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn + 2 skeins of Lion Brand Sock Ease marshmallow 
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • 3 rounds per square

Summer Camp Socks

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

Cedar River Blanket

  • Pattern Cedar River Blanket by Kat Goldin (free crochet pattern) Non Ravelry Link
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in White, Light Gray, Yellow, Dark Charcoal & Black
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)

Spinning 

Blueberry Chick Yarn – 4oz Cheviot in the Splash Pad Party Exclusive – Tequila Sunrise 

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Check out the Knitting with Knitboop hosted by Ya Ru on YouTube PodcastYa Ru is also the host of the Quiet Queers Craftalong, for which I’m a sponsor. 

Crafty Adventures/ Knitting in Passing

  • I finished my Photo album for January- June 2018. I made my pages in the Project Life App and am printing through Picaboo. I order the 12×2 Lay Flat books. They’re pricy but the quality is beautiful. 
  • Riley told me she’d like to make a cushion for a little nook in her room so I started teaching her crochet.
  • Garret, 10, took a bit of interest in my wheel and specifically the Tequila Sunrise colorway.
  • While Garret petted the wool, Riley dug out old Picaboo calendars that have collages of photos of the family and made pages for her own scrapbook.

 

KAL News

 

Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

Splash Pad Party – Check out the Start Here Thread for Details & Links to everything you need

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Pigskin Party still going ahead as scheduled even if the NFL Football season is altered or canceled. I moved the start date to 9/25/20. We will kick off with virtual events on 9/25 & 26. More details to follow!

I am still looking for sponsors. Do you want to sponsor? Check out this page on my website and fill out the Google Form. Already signed up? Check your email for a confirmation email from me.

  • Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KALThis is the paid option ($60 for Pigskin Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. I believe I have 9 left at this time so please fill out form soon if interested. 
  • Interception Sponsors (Pigskin Party ONLY) host a challenge within the Pigskin Party ($25). There are a max of 5 spots.- 3 already filled. 
  • Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots.

Events

Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group.

Contest, News & Notes

Check out this YouTube video on how to more easily Download Ravelry Library. Thank you to ladies of Tipsy Knits Podcast for mentioning it.
Just a reminder that my patterns are available both on on Ravelry and LoveCrafts. 

Life in Focus

  • I reviewed my progress on my 20 for 2020 list.
  • Tip- can’t get to your local museums? See if they have an email newsletter to keep you posted on virtual events.
  • Plastic Free July- I admitted I’m not quite as committed as last year.

On a Happy Note

  • Love me Stand in the Gap tumbler. Collaboration between GGMadeIt & Magpie Fibers (Gaye Gillespie).The proceeds go to The Conscious Kid who This focuses on bringing Anti-Racism into the schools.
  • I completed a huge studio clean out. 
  • Kayaking with Megg, Oisin and Hattie. 
  • Will’s track meet. 
  • Zoom morning workouts are still going well. 
  • We enjoyed celebrating our nephew Will’s 13th birthday 

Quote of the Week

“When you lose track of time, you are either living your best life or wasting it.” James Clear

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_189_-_72920_2.35_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 188 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/188

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • From the Armchair
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Note- most links below link to Ravelry pages. If Ravelry is not accessible to you right now, please email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I’m happy to find you another accessible link or share more information

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Quarantine Socks

  • Yarn: Berroco Sox in Colorway 1415 Portsoy (self striping grays and blues)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 10.5 inch leg and foot. Just a little more than 3/4 of the skein. 
  • 305 meters

Blue Raspberry Matchy Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks in the Blue Raspberry Colorway 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 259 meters 

Chevron Scrap Blanket

  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon
  • Yarn: Various acrylic worsted weight yarn from stash
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Great stash buster. I used 16g to make one stripe of 7 rows. 10g to make a corner
  • Total: 1028 meters 

Donner

  • Pattern: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty
  • Yarn: Ellyn Cooper’s Yarn Sonnets Jenny
  • Needles: Body US 3 (3.25 mm). Ribbing US 1.5 (2.5 mm) 
  • Ripped back to make it shorter so I’ll wear it more.
  • 716 Meters 

Abington Mitts

  • Designing mitts- to coordinate with Abington Hat (part of Point Counterpoint Vol 5)
  • Yarn: Goosey Fibers Squish DK. Pepper Spray First.
  • More details to follow
  • 139 meters.

Stash Dash Total to date: 10,910 meters- goal is 20k!


On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl

  • Yarn: Queensland Collection Perth in the Alice Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl by Michelle Ferguson (crochet pattern $5)
  • Hook: G (4.25 mm)

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • 3 rounds per square.

Summer Camp Socks

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

Spinning:

Brainstorming

From the Armchair


Knitting In Passing 

  • I shared stories about Riley and Millie using my spinning wheel for the first time and about Hattie’s first time asking to knit with me (at age 2 1/2)

In My Travels 


Dan and I were lucky to get to spend a little over 2 weeks at my cousin’s lake house in New Hampshire. We did a lot of kayaking including a trip to the nearby Saco river with my family. I talked about how I take my good habits with me on vacation and some of the highlights of our trip.


KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

Splash Pad Party Check out the Start Here Thread for Details & Links to everything you need

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize!

Pigskin Party ’20

  • Because inquiring minds want to know- YES, the Pigskin Party still going ahead as scheduled even if the NFL Football season is altered or canceled. We’ve been good at Virtual parties for years. This will be our 7th annual Pigskin Party. I hope you’ll consider joining us. Official dates: September 10, 2020 through February 8, 2021.
  • Do you want to sponsor? Check out this page on my website and fill out the Google Form. Already signed up? I’ll reach out soon to confirm your details. 

Events

  • Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group
  • Tour de Fleece: Saturday June 27 to Sunday July 19 

Contest, News & Notes

  • I am extremely disappointed in the Ravelry response to recent user issues with their new redesign.
  • I sell my patterns on Ravelry but want them to be accessible to everyone so you can now find my self-published patterns on LoveCrafts.

Life in Focus

  • This week’s segment focuses on #PlasticfreeJuly: I talked about what I kept from last year, how I’m giving myself grace this year during the pandemic and I give some product recommendations.

Plastic Free Product Recommendations

Come chat in the #PlasticFreeJuly Thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group! 

On a Happy Note

  • Kayaking with my cousin Jamie.
  • Oisín’s baseball game. 
  • Seeing the doe and two fawns who frequent our backyard. 
  • Seeing a bald eagle at the lake!
  • Hamilton on Disney Plus (yes, I’m late to the game)
  • Walgreens Wood Panel prints that I ordered for my guest room of the nieces and nephews’ sleepover photos.
  • Zoom workouts with my bff. 
  • Going to the Lake and also returning home.

Quote of the Week

It’s not about time, it’s about choices. How are you spending your choices.

-Beverly Adamo

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_188_-_71520_12.47_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 187 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week


Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Yumi Yarns

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

C2C Blanket

  • Pattern: Corner to Corner Start tutorial by Lauri Bolland
  • Hook: I (5.25mm)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice 3 skeins each of (pink) and (light gray)
  • Border- I used the first round from this tutorial
  • 858 meters

Red Thumper Hat

  • Pattern: Thumper Hat by Jennifer Lassonde ($5 knitting pattern)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca
  • 128 meters

Pan the Alien

  • Pattern: Allen the Alien Amigurumi by Abby Sy (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Superwash Wool, blue white and green.
  • 44 meters

Demic the Round Plus Alien

  • Pattern: Round Plush Alien by Janet Carrillo (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Worsted Weight Superwash Wool, blue white and green.
  • 38 meters

Misfit Scrappy Sock 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn Twist Sock in the We R All Misfits (self striping). Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Minis in 2 colors of green
  • 241 meters

Paton’s Kroy Socks for Gram

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Green Stripe Ragg Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 212 meters

PrideSockathon2020 Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Rainbow Colorway & Paton’s Kroy (coal)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Cast on for Abigail of Covert Knits Video Podcast Pride Sockathon 2020 runs through June 30th. #pridesockathon2020 
  • Abigail is donating money to The Trevor Project for each pair she finishes. I donated $60.60 when I finished this pair.
  • 272 meters 

Stash Dash Total to date: 8,463 meters (20K here I come)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Summer 2020 Wash Cloths Round 2

  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar n’Cream
  • 30+ in second round so far! Goal is to use up all of this stash.

Chevron Scrap Blanket

  • Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon
  • Yarn: Various acrylic worsted weight yarn from stash
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • This is a great stash buster. I need at least 16g to make one stripe of 7 rows & 10g to make a corner

Spinning Corriedale to ply with BFL

  • 8oz of corriedale (natural cream color)
  • First 4 oz done.

Brainstorming

The Crochet Luna Podcast is hosting an August MAL for these Soap Sacks.

Fortune’s Shawlette crochet pattern by Tamara Kelly $4.00

Hatching Alien by Kayte-Did’s Free crochet pattern

KAL News

Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksNahSt DesignsYumi Yarns DesignsagirlandherwoolHolly Press Fibers

Quarter 3: July 1- September 30 – Lessen the Library check out the Ravelry Thread here.
Quarter 3 Sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Apple Fiber Studio, Cookie and Bees
Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:
#FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash

Splash Pad Party 

Check out the Start Here Thread for Details & Links to everything you need

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Tune in to hear if your name was randomly selected for a June participation prize. Keep posting in Poolside chat thread and use #splashpadparty20 on IG. 

Events

Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group

Tour de Fleece runs from Saturday June 27 to Sunday July 19 

Life in Focus

  • Goals for year- 7 patterns- 3x week workouts
    • 3x week workouts are still going strong.
    • Design- I finished the knitting and most of the writing of another pattern (which will be #5 for the year). 
  • Continuing work on Me & White Supremacy workbook.
  • I need to revisit my 20 for 2020 list because some things like visiting 2 new cities just won’t be realistic. 

On a Happy Note

  • Walking with my BFF while kids worked in yard with Dan. 
  • Two tiny fawns and their moms who are hanging around our property a lot right now. 
  • Father’s Day at my parents with my brother’s 3 kids. Outdoor movie night. Seafood. Swimming.
  • Judging jumps off the diving board using the score cards Riley made (0.0, 1, 2 and 3) 
  • Oisin’s birthday.
  • Dan playing guitar again.
  • Date night at the Drive In to see the new Lion King. 

Quote of the Week

“There is no such thing as an empty space or an empty time. There is always something to see, something to hear.”

— John Cage

:Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_187_-_63020_1.23_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 186 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
  • Brainstorming
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: agirlandherwool & Fibernymph Dye Works

I started the show with a bit of my perspective on and support for Black Lives Matter. Tune in to hear the details. I also shared a quote from Gretchen Rubin from Episode 267 of the Happier Podcast.
“The things of ordinary life can seem trivial especially at times like this but big things coexist with little things— and by taking care of little things– and our own lives —we strengthen ourselves to take action on big things. And to turn outward— and to think about other people and the right action we can take in the world.”

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Mixed BFL

  • Mixed BFL: Call Me Row-Bear from 2GuysYarn
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel 
  • 2 ply yarn 
  • 312.7 meters. 
  • Stash Dash Total: 938 meters

Christmas Stocking for Jenna & Cecilia

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)
  • 912 meters 

Happiest Blanket Ever 2 

  • Pattern: Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (Pastel Green) for Main Color. Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in the Tutti Fruitti Colorway 
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)
  • Cast on for Baby Size. Chain 154.
  • MC- 783 meters, CC: 429 meters: about 90 meters for last round of border in a salmon color. Total: 1304 meters for stash dash
  • FO= 51 inches long  and 37 inches wide

2 Blues 32oz Jar Cozy

  • Pattern: None
  • Hooks: 3.5 mm (E), 3.75 mm (F),4.0 mm (G)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in Sky and Denim
  • 46 meters
 

Rainbow Cozy Large (32oz jar)

  • Pattern: None
  • Hooks: 3.5 mm (E), 3.75 mm (F),4.0 mm (G)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up- Black, worked my way through rainbow. Purple to red. Black body. Pink round at the top.
  • 59 meters
 

Stash Dash Summer Dishcloths Round 1

  • Yarn: Lily Sugar n’Cream
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square
  • I’m trying to work through my entire stash of Lily Sugar n’ Cream cotton. My firstbatch of summer washcloths = 32 cloths.
  • 454 grams/ 704 meters
Stash Dash Total (to date): 6,670 meters

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Quarantine Socks

  • Yarn: Berroco Sox in Colorway 1415 Portsoy (self striping grays and blues)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Finished first sock- 38g.  
  • Almost through leg of second sock. 
 

Misfit Scrappy Sock 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn Twist Sock in the We R All Misfits (self striping). Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Minis in 2 colors of green
 

PrideSockathon2020 Socks

  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Rainbow Colorway & Paton’s Kroy (black)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Cast on for Abigail of Covert Knits Video Podcast Pride Sockathon 2020 runs through June. 
  • Abigail is donating money to The Trevor Project for each pair she finishes and I think I’ll do the same. 

Natural Tans BFL

  • Fiber: 4 oz BFL from Beesy Fibers.
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel
  • Plan is to spin 8 oz cream/undyed Corriedale and spin a 3 ply. 

C2C Blanket

  • Pattern: Corner to Corner Start tutorial by Lauri Bolland
  • Hook: I (5.25mm)
  • Yarn: Vanna’s Choice 3 skeins each of (pink) and (light gray)
  • Thanks to walshcentral- Maryann for inspiration and link to pattern on Ravelry.
  • I found this tutorial very useful to get my head around the construction.
  • I used this link for Border help  but found that I was getting too much flare, so after first round of (chain 3, sc) instead of DC in each chain, I did 2 DC, then DC in the SC below. 

Brainstorming

KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before

Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksNahSt DesignsYumi Yarns DesignsagirlandherwoolHolly Press Fibers.
Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:
#sQuelchtheQueue#FreetheFavorites#LessentheLibrary#SlaytheStash& you can always add #downcellarstudiopodcast

Splash Pad Party – Check out the Start Here Thread for Details & Links to everything you need

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group

Contest, News & Notes

My latest knitting pattern is available on Ravelry! The Ice Time Mitts pattern is $5 on Ravelry.

 
  • Yarn
    • Main Color: Legacy Fiber Artz DK, 75% Superwash Merino, 25% Nylon. 100 grams, 245 yards / 224 meters. Colorway – Grey Gardens (grey)
    • Contrast Color: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK, 100% Fine Highland Wool. 50 grams, 164 yards / 150 meters. Colorway – Maize Heather (mustard).
    • Yarn Used in Sample (Medium): Main Color used 30 grams, 74 yards / 68 meters. Contrast Color used 22 grams, 71 yards / 65 meters.
  • Sizes
    • Small (Medium, Large)
    • Finished palm circumference: 6 (7, 8) in / 15.25 (17.75, 20.25) cm
    • Intended to fit with no-ease to a little bit of negative ease. Select the size that is closest to your handcircumference as measured just below the knuckles. If you are between sizes, I’d recommend going down to a smaller size
  • Pattern Info
    • Pattern has 2 linked video tutorials- how to work the 1×1 cable without a cable needle and without dropping the stitch off your needles.
    • How to do the Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy BO on 1×1 rib. 
    • Tech edited and test knit.

Life in Focus

Ask Me Anything

Shateen Amanda asked: What is your current favorite lunch or snack?

  • Lunch- Siracha Ranch salad (salad with any veggies I have in my fridge and the Siracha Ranch dressing from Trader Joe’s)
  • Snack- fruit. or popcorn
 

Limestone knits asked: What are your favorite cardigan patterns

  • I’ve only knit 4 adult cardigans. Rocky Coast by Hannah Fettig, Lush Cardigan by Tin Can Knits, Mezzo Cardigan by Alexis Windslow, Sandbar Cardi- crochet pattern by Toni Lipsey.
  • I’ve learned something through each one- about fit and fiber content… Not sure cardigans are my thing. My favorite of these is the Mezzo Cardigan.

On a Happy Note

  • Attending a peaceful BLM protest in Boston.
  • Figuring out what my family feels comfortable with for visiting.
  • Riley and Millie knitting at the pool
  • Kayaking with Dan
  • Seeing a buck in the backyard.
  • Celebrating my 40th birthday!
  • Visiting with family after the kids come here on Saturdays to work in the woods with Dan.

Quote of the Week

The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but building the new.

-Socrates

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_186_-_61420_4.01_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 185 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Adoreknit

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins


Shy Little Unicorn 

  • Pattern: Shy Little Unicorn by Ana Paula Rimoli
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable Solids (white), Knit Picks Brava Worsted (various solids) + acrylic stash yarn scraps

Happiest Blanket Ever

  • Pattern: Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (white) for Main Color. Worsted Acrylic partial skeins for accent colors.
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)
  • Cast on for Baby Size. Chain 154.
  • 1082 meters

Pint Sized Blue Ball Band

  • Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Ip in the Navy & Sky colorways
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) and G (4.0 mm)
  • 41 meters

Staci’s Stitches Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plus Sock in the Staci’s Stitches colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • 280 meters

Cozy Classic Raglan

  • Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs
  • Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body
  • Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK in color 547 Sunny
  • Knitting Size Medium. Short sleeved. Full length 350g of yarn. 805 meters. 

My 1st Spinning Project

  • Wool: 4 oz Gray undyed Corriedale from purchased BeesyBee on Etsy.  $6.75 
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel 
  • 2 plies spun Z twist. Plied S twist
  • 166.4 meters. Stash Dash meters x3- 499.2 meters 

2707 meters for Stash Dash to date

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbin


Happiest Blanket Ever 2 

  • Pattern: Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (Pastel Green) for Main Color. Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in the Tutti Fruitti Colorway 
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)

Summer 2020 Wash Cloths

  • Lily Sugar and Cream
  • Hook: J
  • Pattern- various crochet patterns
  • 12 done so far. Goal is at least 1 per day. Fill up the gift bin and replace our old ones.

Misfit Scrappy Sock 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn Twist Sock in the We R All Misfits (self striping). Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Minis in 2 colors of green

Mixed BFL

  • Mixed BFL: Call Me Row-Bear from 2GuysYarn
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel 
  • Finished the spinning. Not sure if I’m going to 2 ply or try my first chain ply. 

Brainstorming

I want to use some leftover Aran weight cotton yarn to make a dress for my 2 year old niece Hattie I’m thinking of the Infant Darling Danger Dress by Charissa Pray. $5 US Crochet pattern.

Crafty Adventures

  • Painting rocks at Mom and Dad’s 
  • Kids made flowers. Dan made a turtle. I made a butterfly. 

Knitting in Passing

  • I did a video chat with my 12 year old niece Riley. Thought she needed help to bind off but really just needed to close up the last stitch.
  • Riley used a video I sent her to cast on a new cowl to teach her friend to knit.
  • Millie (8 years old) can’t find kit from Christmas and wants to knit, so I sent supplies directly to their house and Riley agreed to cast on for her.
  • Here are photos of Riley’s first cowl and headband.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. 

Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 years. It can be something you’ve made before.

Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksNahSt DesignsYumi Yarns DesignsagirlandherwoolHolly Press Fibers.
Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites

Splash Pad Party Starts May 30th!

Check out the Start Here Thread for Details & Links to everything you need

Click here to see details for our Virtual Kick Off Events

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Stash Dash starts May 22 Check out the Chat Thread in the Knit Girllls Podcast group

Contest, News & Notes


Point Counterpoint Volume 5 is on sale for $5 through May 31st with code COLLAB. 4 patterns- 2 each from Mary of Kino Knits and me.

Life in Focus

  • I checked off 2 things on my 20 for 2020 List.
  • I finished a Bluprint Class: Plying with Jillian Moreno (loved it)
  • Dan & I went kayaking at Jacob’s Pond.

On a Happy Note

  • Dan made a new banner for my cousin’s 10th birthday parade.
  • Dan & I celebrated our 16th Anniversary and his brother’s birthday with a socially distant visit in their backyard.
  • We had a visit with my parents, brother and his family.
  • I was delighted to see my cousin Jenny at work. 
  • I enjoyed a one on one chat with my friend Petrina and a Bingo game with her friends.
  • Doing my morning Zoom workout outside on the deck in the nice weather. 

Quote of the Week

If you want your life to be different, you have to start reacting to life differently. – Bryant McGill

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

 

 

Direct download: Episode_185_-_52920_11.01_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 184 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website www.downcellarstudio.com/184

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • From the Armchair
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Gray Bobble Hexagon Trivet

  • Pattern: Bobble Hexagon Trivet by Amy Minard ($4.50 US crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar n’ Cream in the Greige Colorway
  • Hook:  H (5.0mm)

Moonrise Necklace

  • Pattern: Moonrise Necklace by Sivia Harding & Ellen Sandin (knit)
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Vineyard Silk Classic – lace weight silk yarn came with kit. 
  • Bought kit at Stitches West 2016. Emily (knittingbutterfly), Joanna Johnson and I went out to San Jose and were very kindly hosted by our friends the Knitmores- Jasmin and Gigi of the Knitmore Girls podcast. Thursday afternoon before the event actually opened that we had lunch with Sivia. When we dropped her back at her hotel we went up to her room and she showed us the kits for these beautiful necklaces and samples that were already made/in progress. Knew it was something my mom would love! She had a handful of colors to choose from and we got to pick what we wanted off her bed and buy them! When we got back to the car we all agreed that the exhilaration was intoxicating and decided this was the knitting version of a drug deal. We got such a kick out of it. 
  • Kit had everything I needed- yarn, beads, the flosser to string the beads, clasp.
  • Love the way this came out. Think I’d have liked it with the 2.0 mm called for and perhaps with bigger beads a little better but I didn’t have that on hand. Pattern is well written and intuitive. It was easy to memorize the 8 row repeat and to read my knitting once the repeat was established.
  • Something new to me. Never knit with beads before. K1, place one. very easy. 
  • Pattern available as a kit from Earthfaire (US $29.95). Kit includes pattern, silk thread, bead mix, and clasp.

Mother’s Day Wash Cloths

  • Pattern: None (crochet)
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm) and I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Lily Sugar n’Cream 

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 

Shy Little Unicorn 

  • Pattern: Shy Little Unicorn by Ana Paula Rimoli
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable Solids (white), Knit Picks Brava Worsted (various solids) + acrylic stash yarn scraps

Cozy Classic Raglan

  • Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs
  • Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body
  • Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK 

Misfit Scrappy Sock 

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn Twist Sock in the We R All Misfits (self striping). Holly Press Fibers Sheepish Minis in 2 colors of green

Christmas Stockings

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)

Blue Raspberry Matchy Socks

  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks in the Blue Raspberry Colorway 
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Spinning! To hear the full story about my spinning wheel tune in to Episode 173

My 1st Spinning Project

  • Wool: 4 oz Gray undyed Corriedale from purchased BeesyBee on Etsy.  $6.75 
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel 

Mixed BFL

  • Mixed BFL: Call Me Row-Bear from 2GuysYarn
  • Wheel: Kromski Minstrel 

From the Armchair

Crafty Adventures

I’ve done a bit of coloring and digital scrapbooking. 

KAL News


Quarterly Quests!

Get all of the details here. Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before

Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksNahSt DesignsYumi Yarns DesignsagirlandherwoolHolly Press Fibers.

Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites

Splash Pad Party

Pro Shop Sponsors:

Snack Shack Sponsors

Events

Stash Dash starts May 22. Check out the Chat Thread in the Knit Girllls Podcast group


Contest, News & Notes

Ask Me Anything

Tune in to hear the answers to these questions:

  • knitini: how to avoid knitting burnout? I’m teetering on the edge.  
  • Mfcknits: what to you knit in warmer weather?
  • thisElsaSilva- how do you manage your WIPs and how many do you have? Sewrunknit: how you found your niche at work. Did you go to school for your job?
  • Ecbthorman- Someone you follow on insta whose feed is bringing you knitting inspo   right now. I love watching the #todaysknitoutfit hashtag
  • ann.rupp: How did you make the numbers work when you modified the stitch count on your Boxy?

On a Happy Note

  • I finished painting my guest room. Paint colors: Sherwin Williams: Knitting Needles & Pewter Cast 
  • Mother’s Day 
  • Flowers in bloom on my walks. 
  • New babies in the family!

Quote of the Week

Henry David Thoreau “The cost of a thing is the amount of … life which is required to be exchanged for it, immediately or in the long run.” 

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_184_-_51520_9.08_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:26am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 183 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes & photos can be found here.

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Contest, News & Notes – with special guest Mary Kino Knits
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Off the Needles

Little Brother’s Romper 

  • Pattern: Little Brother’s Romper by PetiteKnit (knitting pattern. ~$4.50 US at time of purchase)
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 mystic purple & mystery skein of fingering. 
  • Mom found buttons for me & dropped them off but they are still in quarantine. 

Quarantined Unicorn

  • Pattern: Tiny Unicorn Amigurumi by Ahooka Migurumi (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: E (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable Solids (White) & scraps of acrylic
  • Put it in an empty trail mix jar that we took the label off- and put a note saying she was in quarantine. Don’t open for a few more days. 

Rainbow Birthday Cake

  • Pattern: Rainbow Birthday Cake by Yarn Blossom Boutique ($1.99 US Crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up in Colorways: Raspberry, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and White
  • Included a note saying Quarantine cakes take longer to cook than normal cakes so to let it cook a few days before opening

Dan’s 32 oz Jar Cozy

  • Pattern: none
  • Hooks: E, F and G
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up Denim and gray. 

Reverse Abington Hat

  • Pattern: Abington Hat by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Farmers Daughter Fibers Craggy Tweed DK- Amos Moses colorway 
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Worked hat according to instructions but switched all purl and purl decreases for the body of the hat to knits and k2tog.

Soldotna Crop

  • Pattern: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter $7 US Knit Pattern
  • Yarn:  2 skeins of Two Reds & A Blonde DK from Dachinger Wool in mustard (Farrah Fawcett) and a blue (Veronica Lake). 2 skeins of Brown Sheep Yarn- Prairie Spun DK. In Rain Cloud (light gray) and Owl Gray (Charcoal)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Size 3: finished bust- 40 inches Designed to fit with 1-4.5 inches of positive ease.
  • Modified the last section of the colorwork yoke. Love how that came out. Decided to knit the number of body repeats called for in the pattern. Ribbing longer than called for.

On the Needles

Cozy Classic Raglan

  • Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs
  • Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body
  • Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK- 57% Merino, 33% Microfiber, 10% Cashmere goat

Christmas Stocking for Jenna & Baby

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)
  • Finished applique pieces for Jenna’s. Both pieces done for baby. Can’t put together until I the know gender.

Paton’s Kroy Socks for Gram

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Green Stripe Ragg Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • The 2×2 ribbing on the front of the sock was hampering my progress. When I posted about it on Instagram, user Sheldon_Brungard suggested “Try using a progress keeper and set a small daily goal to complete such as 10 rounds. Once the daily goal is met you can switch to something else that excites you more.”
  • That did the trick!

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • 3 rounds per square.

Crafty Adventures

Started a scrapbook of COVID-19 using Shutterfly. I love documenting life and this is definitely the most bizarre thing I’ve ever lived through. I am already forgetting some tiny details that were striking at the time. I’m including things like “new buzz words, what sold out at the stores, funny memes, what I’m grateful for, home improvement projects.

I made banana ice cream using this recipe for Mom since the local place is closed. Hard to find flavor.  Recipe from wellplated.com

I Reorganized all leftovers and mini skeins after ordering bag of randoms from Knitty in Color. I packaged up yarn to swap with my friend Melissa.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before

Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag WorksNahStDesignsYumi Yarns DesignsagirlandherwoolHolly Press Fibers.

Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests & #FreetheFavorites & you can always add #downcellarstudiopodcast

Splash Pad Party – Opens May 30, 2020!

Still have sponsor spots available. Email me downcellarstudio@gmail if you’re interested. 

During Kick off weekend May 30th & 31st I am planning some virtual events. Google Hangout. Instagram Lives with our vendors. 

Events

Maryland Sheep & Wool Virtual Market– check out their Facebook group May 2 & 3. 

Contest, News & Notes 

  • Tune in to hear a chat with Mary of Kino Knits and check out her Instagram feed.
  • We talked all about our new Point/Counterpoint Vol 5 Collection Available on Ravelry! Get our 4 accessory collection normally $18 for only $5 through 5/31/20 with code COLLAB. Click here for a link to the collection.
  • May 1 at 8p Eastern Instagram live. Check out Kino Knits Podcast for more of our chat. 

Life in Focus

2020 Goals

  • 3 times a week (average) exercise of 20 min or more (focus on strength training)= 156 workouts
  • 7 published patterns on Ravelry
  • 10% more sales of designs compared to 2019      

I am becoming a morning workout person which surprised me. April workout totals: Total: 18 out of 30 days – 58% of days worked out. 11 of 18 were strength workouts. Having a blast exploring new trails within a new conservation land property that’s open to the public near my house. It’s so so peaceful and beautiful there. 

Design progress- I have a mitt pattern almost ready for test knitting.  Stay Out of the Forest which was already published and 2 designs in Point/Counterpoint. Sales are going really well!

What’s helping during Stay at Home:

All in April prompts from Corinne Crabtree. Watch video from Corinne Crabtree here . Daily four-point check-in:

  • 1. What’s in my control today?
  • 2. Who am I reaching out to today?
  • 3. How will I move my body a minimum of 5 min. today?
  • 4. Clean mind, clean body…get it done.

Other things I’ve been enjoying:

  • Here For You Podcast with Kate & Doree *who also host the Forever35 Podcast
  • Playing Games with Family on Jackbox.tv
  • Friday evening happy hour with friends on Zoom.

On a Happy Note

  • I painted guest room- well I applied the first coat of primer but its a start. I’m using Sherwin Williams- Knitting Needles & Pewter Cast. 
  • One day heading out for a walk and saw a cardboard sign on telephone pole- Pop-up Art show ahead. On our Neighbor’s fence (on a corner) a local artists hung painted canvases. Brightened my day. 
  • Misfits Market Box. Interesting in trying it? Use this code to get 25% off: COOKWME-NV9CXZ
  • Sharing- I brought dinner to my friend Megg who is a hard working teacher and Mama. We chatted for a few from the lawn while they were up on their deck and I got to see my 2 year old niece Hattie.
  • We had fun with my niece Aila’s 11th birthday parade and game night that followed.

Quote of the Week

Sharon Salzberg on faith and keeping an open mind: 

“It’s not the existence of beliefs that is the problem, but what happens to us when we hold them rigidly, without examining them, when we presume the absolutely centrality of our views and become disdainful of others.”

——

Thank you for tuning in.

Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_183_-_42920_7.00_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:19am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 182 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/182 

 

This week’s segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Crafty Adventures
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Prairie Bag Works

Off the Needles

Crochet Heart Garland 

  • Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: H 5.0 mm
  • Yarn: worsted weight acrylic scraps
  • Made garland for Eme’s birthday parade. Mod Podge Stiffy to stiffen them up. 

Purple Marled Romper

  • Pattern: Little Brother’s Romper by PetiteKnits
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 held together with fingering weight yarn

On the Needles

Soldotna Crop

  • Pattern: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter $7 US Knit Pattern
  • Yarn:  2 skeins of Two Reds & A Blonde DK from Dachinger Wool in mustard (Farrah Fawcett) and a blue (Veronica Lake). 2 skeins of Brown Sheep Yarn- Prairie Spun DK. In Rain Cloud (light gray) and Owl Gray (Charcoal)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Size 3: finished bust- 40 inches Designed to fit with 1-4.5 inches of positive ease.

Christmas Stocking for Jenna & Babies (3 total in progress)

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)

Paton’s Kroy Socks for Gram

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

Cake Party Christmas Socks

  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Pix in the Cake Party Colorway & Patons Kroy in Red 
  • Pattern: OMG heel
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • I’m using Patons Kroy for cuff, heel and toe. First sock done and I still have 80g of main yarn left.

Staci’s Stitches Socks

  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plus Sock in the Staci’s Stitches colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn named for my LYS Stacis’ Stitches.

Happiest Blanket Ever

  • Pattern: Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (white) for Main Color. Worsted Acrylic partial skeins for accent colors.
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)

Crafty Adventures

Dan and I spray painted sheet for Emelyn’s birthday parade 

Talked on the last episode about the Crispina Scrapbox Challenge. Mom and I both participated. Our stories and projects are on the blog. Mom’s post is here. Find my post here.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests: Tune in to hear if you’re a Quarter 1 Winner


Check out the Quarter 2 Thread
April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before

Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag Works, NahSt Designs, Yumi Yarns Designs, agirlandherwool, Holly Press Fibers.

Contest, News & Notes

Stay Out of the Forest is a DK colorwork hat inspired by true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder. It’s the perfect hat for my fellow Murderinos!  It is written for 2 sizes, and uses 3 skeins/colors of yarn. The colorwork charts make it easy to fly through this project. 
I recommend mostly tonal or solid yarn with a lot of contrast from the other colors. You especially want contrast between the MC and CC1. If you really want to delve into the My Favorite Murder theme, check out the beautiful yarns I used from Goosey Fibers!

Full details can be found on the pattern page on Ravelry.

Life in Focus

Tune in to hear an update on my 2020 goals

Ask Me Anything

  1. Meliabella asked: Your Favorite Way to decompress after working remotely during Covid.
  2. Knitwise09- To celebrate the release of your new hat- tell us your hometown murder. I kept it family friendly on the podcast but here’s a link to a serial killer named Gary Sampson who grew up in my mom’s neighborhood. He and my Uncle used to play together as kids.
  3. Agirlandherwool- how has planning and organizing your to do lists changed during this stay at home quarantine?
  4. Jen.on.the.block- thinking of knitting the Mezzo cardigan. Curious how much you wear/love yours. I love mine! Here’s a link with details. Highly recommend knitting one.
  5. My niece Riley asked- Crafty adventures you’ve had or would like to try- Brioche.
  6. jen.cragen- how you’re feeling with all of this stuff in the world. So many feelings. Tune in to hear more.

On a Happy Note

  • Eme’s Sweet 16 Birthday Parade
  • Mom making us all masks. As always I’m so grateful for her. 
  • I did a video chat with Riley for her 12th birthday. She asked me how to bind off headband she was making. Worked on that then pulled out a cowl project I cast on and gave her for Christmas.
  • Virtual happy hour with friends on Saturday night.
  • An unusual but lovely Easter.

Quote of the Week

“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” —Hermann Hesse

Thank you for tuning in!

Direct download: Episode_182_-_41520_7.55_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:49am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 181 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
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Yumi Yarns, The Yarn Sellar & Bee Kind Yarn

Off the Needles

Little Brother’s Romper 

  • Pattern: Little Brother’s Romper by PetiteKnit (knitting pattern. ~$4.50 US at time of purchase)
  • Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Sweitzer’s Fiber Mill mystery yarn (2018 Rhinebeck Bargain bin)

On the Needles

Soldotna Crop

  • Pattern: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter $7 US Knit Pattern
  • Yarn:  2 skeins of Two Reds & A Blonde DK from Dachinger Wool in mustard (Farrah Fawcett) and a blue (Veronica Lake). 2 skeins of Brown Sheep Yarn- Prairie Spun DK. In Rain Cloud (light gray) and Owl Gray (Charcoal)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Size 3: finished bust- 40 inches Designed to fit with 1-4.5 inches of positive ease.

Christmas Stocking for Jenna

  • Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977
  • Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red
  • Hook: F (3.75mm)

Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl

  • Pattern: Sweet Tea Triangle Shawl by Michelle Ferguson (crochet pattern $5)
  • Calls for 600 yards of sport weight. I’m using fingering.
  • Yarn: Queensland Collection Perth in the Alice Springs Colorway

Cake Party Christmas Socks

  • Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Pix in the Cake Party Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG heel
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)

To Knit or to Hike Socks

  • Yarn: Holly Press Fibers Sheepish base in the To Knit or to Hike Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Solid Granny Square Scrap Blanket

  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight yarn
  • Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • 3 rounds per square.

Happiest Blanket Ever

  • Pattern: Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (white) for Main Color. Worsted Acrylic partial skeins for accent colors.
  • Hook: K (6.5 mm)
  • Cast on for Baby Size. 

From the Armchair

Tune in to hear my review a small drawstring project bag and cake coozies from Brianne of Cookie and Bees.

Crafty Adventures

I’ve been working on a weaving project for the Crispina Scrapbox Challenge.

KAL News

Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 

In Quarter 1 we did sQuelch the Queue I will pull winners next episode. 

Thanks again to our Q1- Sponsors

Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:
#sQuelchtheQueue #FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash & you can always add #downcellarstudiopodcast

Q2 April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 years.
Check out the Quarter 2 Thread

Events

Check out Knitty’s list of Canceled Fiber Events & ways you can support the vendors who are losing out on business.

Life in Focus

My approach to getting through COVID-19 (so far)

Establishing new routines & keeping up with existing ones.

  • Make a list of routines that you normally do. Find a way to keep doing those.
  • Make a list of things you’ve been wanting to do but never have time- some fun, some chores. Decide how to divide out. One per day?  Maybe have your whole family make a list- turn it into a challenge!
  • Learn something new. A language. A new knitting skill? A new craft? 
  • Each day make a list of GOOD things that have happened. Something you accomplished. Someone you connected with. Time you spent on something you otherwise couldn’t. 

Gretchen Rubin suggests having Ambitious Projects, Medium Projects & Fun projects. 

Move your body: there are so many virtual options these days.

  • Try some Pilates virtual sessions with my dear friend Laura Anders.
  • Find a workout app, take a hike (just keep your distance). Try out Peleton or one of the other subscription services that are currently offering a couple months free 

Listening & Watching

  • Meditation apps can be a great option. Many are free.
  • I love listening to my crafty podcasts.
  • The Life Coach School Podcast is doing a COVID-19 coping series.
  • I hear Bluprint and other sites are offering lots of free classes. Search and see what you find. 
  • Limit time watching the news. You likely know a lot already about how to keep yourself and your family safe. Pick a time, catch up on what’s new for the day and shut it off. Anything THAT important will break through. 

Socialize Without Getting Germs

Support local (if you can)

  • Breweries offering delivery with extra fees to keep employees working. 
  • If you’re one of the fortunate ones not scrambling to pay bills right now consider buying a gift on Etsy or Bbay or other small indie business- send it to a friend having a birthday or just because. 
  • See if your LYSs offering pick up or if you can buy a gift card online.

Ask Me Anything

  • Phoenixknitter3 asked- What are your favorite notions?
    • Good scissors, a tape measure, plain metal circle stitch markers and a tapestry needle.
  • Proudfootk & Marilynknits- What is your favorite brand and type of knitting needles? Check out my review of Knitter’s Pride Nova Platina Special Interchangeable Set in Episode 97 recorded in September 2016 where I reviewed the Knitters Pride Nova Platina Special Interchangeable Set. Nova Platinas fixed circulars are my favorite needles.
  • Lizzym_knits- What are your favorite budget yarns and how do they hold up to wear? 

Shanalines-designs: Do you really need me to answer this, Savers finds, obvi! Tune in to hear about baby clothes and a bench I bought recently.

On a Happy Note

  • Home improvements & reorganization that’s getting done while Dan and I are home (mostly Dan’s efforts).
  • Dan made me a tray for the bathtub from an old piece of cabinet from his Uncle Charlie who was a cabinet maker. 
  • Video chatting Mom re: scrapbook challenge
  • Zoom chat with my family last weekend. Dad 3 costume changes. 
  • I finally took time to make homemade popcorn. 

Quote of the Week

“Remember when you go into the world and keep your eyes and ears wide open. And be kind.Love one another. Take care of each other. Tell the truth. Always do your best. Listen to the big people and the little people. Explore new paths and have fun. Know that you are loved like crazy. Give thanks for all your blessings. Above all else, love and you will do wonderful things in this world.”-Rebecca Puig

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_181_-_33020_7.27_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in! For full show notes and clicks check out my website for Episode 180 Show Notes. 

Direct download: Episode_180_-_31220_7.00_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 179 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:

  • Off the Needles
  • On the Needles
  • Knitting in Passing
  • 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: Infinite Twist, KnitCompanion, Knitters Brewing Company

Off the Needles

Mom’s Frozen Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

103 Hat

  • Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Suburban Stitcher DK
  • Needles: US 5 & 7

Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag

  • Pattern: Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag by Laura Sutcliffe (2 GBP crochet pattern) $2.70 US 
  • Hook: 2.75 mm (C)
  • Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash & Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted (used fingering weight yarn for the baby rabbit)

Front Loop Newborn Hat

  • Pattern: Front Loop Newborn Hat by Cream of the Crop Crochet (free)
  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight in a light blue
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)

Growler Cozy

  • Pattern: Improvised. Hope to publish a pattern for this after I perfect it.
  • Hooks: K & L
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up held double

On the Needles

Pinwheel Socks

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

Paton's Kroy Socks for Gram

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

Knitting in Passing

Dan washed his favorite hat in the washing machine (by accident) for the second time and it was finally too small to continue wearing. Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli. He gifted it to our niece so she can enjoy it!

Crafty Adventures

Off the Wall in Abington, MA. I attended a wooden sign painting party with girlfriends and had a blast! Highly recommend

KAL News

Quarterly Quests

Get all of the details here.

 January 1- March 31 -sQuelch the Queue Knit any projects you had in your queue (prior to January 1). Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any patterns that have been sitting in your queue for over 5 years. Fine print* NO WIPS are allowed for these quests. Cast on the first day of the quest and whatever is finished by the last day will count.
Quarter 1- Sponsors

  • Anne Beady Designs
  • KnitCompanion
  • Fibernymph Dye Works
  • Knitters Brewing Company
  • Don't forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:
  • #sQuelchtheQueue
  • #FreetheFavorites
  • #LessentheLibrary
  • #SlaytheStash
  • You can always add #downcellarstudiopodcast

Pigskin Party Wrap up

Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize, the January Interception and/or one of the 10 Amazing GRAND Prizes.

Life in Focus

Mom & chatted about goals for 2020, working in new habits and routines in our lives and doing the things we're tempted to put off.

If you'd like to join Diane's Massachusetts eBay & eCommerce Online Sellers Meet Up Group on Facebook- click here.

Ask Me (Us) Anything

Tune in to hear how Jen gets over loss of knitting mojo, how BostonJensMom met Boston Jen's Dad, and a few other fun questions.

On a Happy Note

  • Mom's Birthday Lunch
  • Hattie's 2nd Birthday Dinner
  • Silly things the kids say
  • Hiking with Dan
  • Movies we've seen recently

Quote of the Week

Edith Wharton on being a positive force:
“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it."

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_179_-_21520_4.30_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:47pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 178 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: 2 Guys Yarn Company

Off the Needles

Creepy Graffiti Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Asylum Fibers in the Creepy Graffiti colorway

On the Needles

Mom’s Frozen Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

103 Hat

  • Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde
  • Yarn: Suburban Stitcher DK
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75mm) & 7 (4.0mm)

Pinwheel Socks

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

My Cryptonite Shawl

  • Pattern: My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg ($6.31 US)
  • Yarn: Barnyard Knits Merino Nylon Fingering in the Pickly Pear Colorway (gray with multicolors).  Fuse Fiber Studio Merino Sock in the Mercury Glass (gray) and Radical Acceptance Colorway (pinky)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)

Happiest Blanket Ever

  • Happiest Blanket Ever by Tamara Kelly (free crochet pattern)
  • Hook: K: 6.5 mm
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love (white) for MC, leftover acrylic stash yarn for CCs.

In My Travels

KAL News

New for 2020: Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 
January 1- March 31 – sQuelch the Queue Knit any projects you had in your queue (prior to January 1). Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any patterns that have been sitting in your queue for over 5 years. Fine print* NO WIPS are allowed for these quests. Cast on the first day of the quest and whatever is finished by the last day will count.

  • Quarter 1 Sponsors: Anne Beady Designs, KnitCompanion, Fibernymph Dye Works & Knitters Brewing Company

We are looking for Prizes for this KAL. If you’re interested- please let me know! I’m also offering a discount on ads if you sponsor this KAL, Splash Pad or Pigskin. Emails went out to those on my newsletter this week. Sign up for my email newsletter to be informed about sponsor options.

Pigskin Party ’19! Not familiar? It’s a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.

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

Pro Shop Sponsors 

Snack Shack Sponsors

Our January Interception posted & is kindly sponsored by designer Windswept Designs (Monique Leonard)!

  • To be eligible to win:
  • Complete a project of at least 100 yards that does not contain any sheep’s wool.
  • Project must have been cast on on/after 1/1/20 and completed by 1/31/20
  • Post your FO in this thread with a description and/or photo that shows how you’re meeting the challenge.

Get Ready for SuperBowl WeekendCheck out this thread in the group.

Events

Life in Focus

Plastic Free July Updates:

Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent
Refills for my favorite Uniball Retractable fine point pens
Lush Toothy Tabs

Ask Me Anything

Tune in to hear a question on how I use Evernote to organize my life. Are you interested in hearing more about my organizing, habit tracking, goal settings etc? I think Patreon might be a good option for that. Comes over to the Episode 178 Chat thread in our Ravelry Group to talk more if you’re interested in that idea.

On a Happy Note

  • 90 min massage
  • Dan and I visited a new to us brewery- Stellwagen.
  • Planning a kitchen renovation and we are able to buy a large cabinet that matches our existing cabinets (but painted) to give us more storage.
  • Dan and I went on our first hike together at home.
  • I went to speak at the MA eBay and Resellers Meet-up group that my mom organizes.
  • I got a new iPhone 11 Pro Max. The camera is epic.

Quote of the Week

“The purpose of fear is to raise your awareness not to stop your progress.”― Steve Maraboli

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_178_-_12920_8.28_PM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 177 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website. Click here. 

This week’s segments included:

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Holly Press Fibers

Off the Needles

Velvet Bear for Ella 

  • Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Burgundy Mulled Rose & Violet colorways
  • Hook: H

Velvet Bear for Carina

  • Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman
  • Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Burgundy Mulled Rose & Violet colorways
  • Hook: H

The Parker Baby Booties

  • Pattern: The Parker Baby Booties by Ashleigh Kiser (free crochet pattern)
  • Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly Crofter DK Baby Fair Isle Effect
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)

Cadet Colors Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Cadet Colors Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Millie and Riley knit on these socks for Uncle Dan which is special.

Hattie’s Hedgehog 

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

Ross Farm Blanket Square 

  • Irongate Square by Jessica Ryan (free crochet pattern).
  • Yarn: Ross Farm Henrietta Shetland Wool 3ply sport 250 yards for 100g
  • Hook: I 5.5 mm
  • Bought this skein because we had a lawn ornament bunny growing up w/ same name. Sentimental May even be my first purchase from Ross Farm. 

On the Needles

Mom’s Frozen Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Creepy Grafiti Socks

  • Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
  • Yarn: Asylum Fibers Twisted sock yarn in the Creepy Graffiti Colorway
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Front Loop Newborn Hat

  • Pattern: Front Loop Newborn Hat by Cream of the Crop Crochet (free)
  • Yarn: leftover fingering weight in a light blue
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)

I’m also knitting on a new design- the details of which I can’t share yet.

Pigskin Party ‘19

Brainstorming

  • I’d like to make a sweater with DK weight mustard yarn I bought during yarn haul in Sept. My plan is to swatch to get a gauge I like and then use the advanced Search on Ravelry to find a sweater that’s knit at that gauge.
  • Hat for my brother for his birthday.
  • Monkey for Millie’s 8th birthday- leaning towards the Chinese New Year Monkey by Stephanie Jessica Lau.  
  • I need to repair a pair of Mom’s socks & Jeff’s Ice Time hat.  

From the Armchair

  • I shared my review of the Yarnable Subscription Box
  • Knitwise09 asked what I thought of Paintbox yarn. So far I’m really liking my socks with this yarn. Keep in mind, socks are usually knit at a tighter gauge which can help prevent pilling.

KAL News

I announced the winner for the last of the Slay the Stash KAL months. Tune in to see if you won!

New for 2020: Quarterly Quests! Get all of the details here. 
January 1- March 31 – sQuelch the Queue Knit any projects you had in your queue (prior to January 1). Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any patterns that have been sitting in your queue for over 5 years. Fine print* NO WIPS are allowed for these quests. Cast on the first day of the quest and whatever is finished by the last day will count.

We are looking for Prizes for this KAL. If you’re interested- please let me know! I’m also offering a discount on ads if you sponsor this KAL, Splash Pad or Pigskin. Emails went out to those on my newsletter this week. Sign up for my email newsletter to be informed about sponsor options.

Pigskin Party ’19! Not familiar? It’s a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.

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

Pro Shop Sponsors 

Snack Shack Sponsors

 

Tune in to hear if you’re a December Participation Winner.

Our January Interception posted & is kindly sponsored by designer Windswept Designs (Monique Leonard)!

 

To be eligible to win

 

  • Complete a project of at least 100 yards that does not contain any sheep’s wool.
  • Project must have been cast on on/after 1/1/20 and completed by 1/31/20
  • Post your FO in this thread with a description and/or photo that shows how you’re meeting the challenge.

Events

Ask Me Anything

  • Knitwise09- Would you please share more details on the Christmas Open House? Is food offered? Gifts? 
  • Adoreknitsteph: your plans for 2020, knitting wise, travel, events, health plan. Design process. And why crochet over knitting. 
  • Tune in to hear my answers.

Life in Focus

Tune in to hear how I do my 2019 personal year in review.

Design/Podcast/Knit 

  • Most Proud of- exceeding my goal of 10 patterns for the year. Yarn bombing project. Really cool fun project and event. $337 National Alliance on Mental Illness Massachusetts for 103 hat sales. World of Difference Campaign in February – Sold 49 copies & donated $100 to The World of Difference Institute. I designed 2 crochet patterns. GoodReader Tutorial FINALLY published. Hosted 3 successful KALs- Slay the Stash, Splash Pad and Pigskin Parties. Participation better than ever. Growing Ravelry Group. So much engagement.
  • New skills or knowledge. Learned crochet cables and how to make crocheted hats. Made my first top down triangular crochet shawl. Learned how to use newer version of Garageband on my laptop. First experience yarn bombing. Had to figure out how to make it big but still light and workable. My friend Beverly taught me some basic embroidery. 
  • New habits I incorporated: Keeping better track of designs. Kept things organized in Evernote with Folders for notes about: Active Designs, Design Ideas and Stitches, Next Designs I want to work on etc. Then I also created checklists or workflows for what I always need to do when I open up a design to test, steps for publishing, steps for promoting a pattern so I can check things off as I go (or choose not to do things but if I don’t do it, its not because I forget). 
  • New experiences– being part of collaboration with Christy Houghton. December of Designers. So honored to be asked to be a part of that! 
  • Wish I did more of: garment knitting for me. I’m loving my handknit sweaters this winter. I’d be happy to have another in the rotation. 
  • Wish I spent less on this year: I can’t think of any regrets in how I spent my time. You could argue I spent too much money on yarn but I usually end up loving my stash and making beautiful things.  
  • Lessons Learned. I really enjoy designing even when it is a lot of work and a lot of math which typically I don’t enjoy. When I began my year with 10 pattern goal I wasn’t sure I’d love it but I knew designing consistently would force me into good habits and give me that chance to see how I felt. 
  • Events & Milestones.  Participated in the 1st Annual Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul and hosted a cast on party at Yarns End. Went to Rhinebeck. Needles Up and Indie Untangled. In November- I attended Lady Dye’s 2020 Tour kick off at Gather Here! I got a spinning wheel!!
  • Results: More email subscribers. More Instagram followers. Sold 1916 patterns in 2019 doesn’t include free pattern- Ball Band Cozy. 

Knitting- 2019

  • FOs- 139
  • Gifts: 106
  • Socks- 24
  • Shawls-11
  • Toys- 18
  • Hat- 18
  • Sweaters- 3

2020 Goals 

  • 3 times a week (average) exercise of 20 min or more (focus on strength training)= 156 workouts
  • 7 published patterns on Ravelry
  • 10% more sales of designs compared to 2019
  • Equals 20- for 2020 

20 in 2020 (Gretchen Rubin)– these are more of a bucket-list type list of things I think will enrich my life.

  1. Use up 5 gift cards 
  2. Visit 2 new cities 
  3. Kayak at Jacob’s pond 
  4. Kayak at one other new place 
  5. Get car detailed
  6. Take 4 classes/lectures (ideas: spinning, knitting, embroidery, sewing, painting)
  7. Learn to spin
  8. Pay off my car 
  9. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts Boston at least once
  10. Submit a pattern to at least 1 publication 
  11. Go camping
  12. Do 1 in-store class or event at a local yarn shop
  13. Do Plastic Free July Challenge again 
  14. Finish 2018 photo album & print
  15. Purge at least 40 things from the house
  16. Maintain my weight range
  17. Take a yoga class
  18. Go to at least 4 musicals/plays
  19. Go to the library at least twice
  20. At least 12 massages 

My word of the Year for 2020: FLOURISH. This year is a year of building on the progress and successes from 2019. I will design more. I will lift more. I will be stronger. I will truly flourish. 

Flourish: Verb: (of a person, animal, or other living organism) grow or develop in a healthy or vigorous way, especially as the result of a particularly favorable environment. Noun: an instance of suddenly performing or developing in an impressively successful way.

Questions from Listeners:

  • ZTphotos asked about new designs for 2020.
  • TaraT580: New stuff you want to try your hand at designing- new stitches/combinations etc?
  •  Phoenixknitter3 & Anna.lenzmeier- Your knitting goals for the year!
  • TUNE IN to hear the answers.

Do you have goals for 2020? How will you measure? Do you have a Word for the year? Let’s chat! Come on over to the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group!

On a Happy Note

  • Binging the Australian tv show Wentworth on Netflix. 
  • My friend Laura visited over New Year’s. I brought her to the shore in my town for the first time in countless visits! We hiked together at my local state park.
  • My favorite Zumba teacher is back teaching twice a month so made a point to get there the first Saturday of the year.
  • I just had my annual physical and my doctor was very happy. All blood work even better than last year.
  • I saw the new Star Wars movie with Dan 
  • I visited my best friend who was home sick. caught up with her and brought lunch and then got to hang out with my niece Aila for the afternoon. We worked on her science project and had a monster drawing challenge.
  • It was 66 degrees on Sunday! We opened up the house. Cleaned & organized together.

Quote of the Week

Doing great work is not about never making mistakes or failing. It’s about making sure those mistakes have the minimum impact on those you serve, and that your failures inspire and inform new strategies in the future.”

– Cy Wakeman

Thank you for tuning in!


Contact Information:

Direct download: Episode_177_-_1_14_20_8.12_AM.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:12am EDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

This week’s segments included:

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


Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Imagined Landscapes

Off the Needles

Ribbit Socks

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

Mystery Spirit Yarn Christmas Socks

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

Velvet Bear

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

Beanie for Bernie

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

On the Needles

Hattie’s Hedgehog 

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

Dragon Belly

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

Cadet Colors Socks

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

Gram’s 2019 Christmas Socks

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

Brooklyn’s TeenyBeanie

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

Millie’s Lipsticks

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

Soccer Ball

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

Brainstorming

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

Crafty Adventures

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

Knitting in Passing

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

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

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


KAL News

Slay the Stash 2019

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

Slay the Stash Sponsor List- 2019 Official Rules for 2019 

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

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

Pigskin Party ‘19

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

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

Pro Shop Sponsors 

Snack Shack Sponsors

Updates this episode

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

Events


Contest, News & Notes 

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

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

Life in Focus

Plastic-free July Update
What’s working well? 

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

Harder 

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

On a Happy Note

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

Quote of the Week

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

–Audrey Hepburn

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

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