Podcasts about blue moon fiber arts

On this episode of the podcast we've got another GLYC update - and then we get into chatting about the ultimate summer project: lace. Our Sponsor This episode of the podcast is sponsored by Garthenor, providing a variety of sustainable, organic British wool products in an ecologically responsible way. See Garthenor’s glorious yarns at the GLYC Mini-Yarn Market after party, or on their website at www.garthenor.com. Great London Yarn Crawl UPDATE NEW for this year: we've added a DIY version of the yarn crawl for those of you who weren't able to get a ticket or aren't able to attend in London on September 9th. [click here for more details - need to add to GLYC section of website] Make Happy (aka What We're Working On) Rachel is finished her Fireflies Rising in Hedgehog Sock for the GLYC Anniversary KAL. She has moved on to making her own Starting Point using yarns from stash: Auracania, Artist's Palette, The Knitting Goddess, Dream in Color and Blue Moon Fiber Arts. Allison is SO close to being finished her Sprite's Fen shawl and is finally making progress on her own Fireflies Rising shawl. She's also been sporadically working on her Martinique Beach cowl. How do you lace? Summer seems like the perfect time to be working on light and airy things! We chat about lace, some basics, our first projects and experiences, tips, yarns, successes and disasters! If you haven't tried lace before we also chat about some great lace patterns to get you started. *** Many thanks for joining us for another episode! You can find the podcast on iTunes and Stitcher Radio (please rate, review and subscribe!) and you'll find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, in our Yarn in the City group on Ravelry, or in person on Wednesday nights at our knit night at The Goat on the Rise  between 7 and 10pm. Have a great couple of weeks and we’ll chat with you soon!  Music credits (available on NoiseTrade) Ridiculously Happy (feat. Twilight Meadow) - Owl City

Our final episode is here. This week's WIPs include Crosshatch Socks, Fox Paws Shawl, Lillian Fay cardigan, a generic toe-upsock, and the Dream Baby blanket. FOs include Going Up socks, Granny Square washcloth, fingered mittens and a Yowza Weight It #4. Featured Baubles and Bling include Tunisian crochet hooks, a gradient set from Woolbearers and sock yarn from Backyard Fiber Works. We choose the winners of the School Colors KAL/CAL and the Double or Nothing eBook. Thank you to everyone who has watched and supported us! Knit With Heart. SHOW NOTESShout Outs:We draw winners of the final KAL/CAL at the end of the show.  We also draw a winner of the Double or Nothing eBook.  Sheila has already contacted the winner of the Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL.  Sheila is sending out all of the random membership list drawing yarn prizes and we plan to use up the remaining money in the podcast account to purchase pattern prizes.  Thank you SO much to those who have donated recently!  It was very sweet and it will definitely help defray the overseas shipping costs.  That being said, we do need to spend down the podcast account, so from this point on we no longer need donations.  We want to make sure that every donated prize and every penny of donated money goes back to the podcast audience!!On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Lillian Fay Cardigan by Ellen Mason in Dream in Color Classy in the Flamingo Pie colorwayFox Paws by Xandy Peters in 5 colors of Sundara Yarn from deep stash.Crosshatch socks in Knit Picks Felici in the Sprinkles colorwaySheila is working on:Generic Toe Up sock in Blue Moon Fiber Arts heavyweightDream Baby DK Baby Square Blanket in Plymouth Dream Baby DKScrap Blanket ideasRate Your Date:Wendy finished:Going Up socks in Knit Picks Felici sock in the Dark Side colorway.Sheila finished:"Glitten" (half glove, half mitten) loosely based on the Knotty Gloves pattern by Julia Mueller.Rectangle Granny Square washclothYowza Weight It Shawl 4 by Susan B. Anderson in Tess YarnsOne BMFA Heavyweight sockWhirlwind Romance:Wendy is spinning a Fiber Optic Silk and Merino gradient braid in the Plum to Green colorwayFuture Dates:Wendy will knit the Baby Round Neck Side Opening Sweater by OGE Designs in Backyard Fiber Works yarn.  She will also frog the Lillian Fay sweater and knit Daelyn Pullover by Isabelle Kraemer instead.Sheila will knit Match and Move shawl by Martina BehmBaubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:A gradient set from WoolbearersTwo skeins of sock yarn from Backyard Fiber Works in the Marine and Reed colorwaysSheila purchased:Dreamz Tunisian crochet hooks from Knitter's Pride Gossip & Innuendo:We drew a winners of the final KAL/CAL and the Double or Nothing eBooks.  Check your Ravelry PMs to see if you were drawn for a random prize giveaway!Thank you so much to everyone who supported us, watched us, cheered us on, donated to us, participated in the group, came up to us at festivals and just generally gave us love.  We will miss doing this because of you.  Knit With Heart and hopefully we'll see you on the group (it is not closing), Instagram and at various fiber events!!!If you are interested, Wendy has a new Wordpress blog where she and her friend DianeInOz post about their many and varied crafting adventures.  Although there are knitting posts on this blog, it also covers all of the other stuff Wendy loves to do, along with posts about her ongoing weight loss journey.  You can check it out HERE and it is called Rabbit Hole Crafters.  If you want to see only the posts by Wendy, you can click on the word Wendy in the category cloud that appears when you read a post and it will show you all of Wendy's posts.

This week's WIPs include the Lillian Fay sweater, Fox Paws, Going Up socks, modified Rye socks and a "Glitten" loosely based on the Knotty gloves. FOs include finished washcloths and one Rye sock. Baubles and Bling this week were a custom lanyard for Sheila to wear her ID badge at work. We review the double knitting eBook Double or Nothing and draw a winner of the My Own Backyard shawl pattern. We will draw more random prize winners in the next episode as well as a winner of the eBook giveaway.  SHOW NOTESShout Outs:This month's KAL/CAL is any project in your favorite Sports Team or School colors! Show your team/school loyalty! This KAL/CAL will run through December 31st. If you have a sports fan or school student, this would be the perfect opportunity to knit a Christmas gift!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue through December and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Lillian Fay Cardigan by Ellen Mason in Dream in Color Classy in the Flamingo Pie colorwayFox Paws by Xandy Peters in 5 colors of Sundara Yarn from deep stash.Going Up socks in Knit Picks Felici sock in the Dark Side colorway.Sheila is working on:Rye socks by Tincanknits in BMFA STR in the Garden Daze colorway"Glitten" (half glove, half mitten) loosely based on the Knotty Gloves pattern by Julia Mueller.Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:Grandma's Favorite Dishcloth by Ruth Slate in kitchen cottonOne Rye sockWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy will knit an Inspira Cowl by Graphica.Sheila will knit socks, a Scrappy Lengthwise Scarf by Zona Sherman and a cowl from Wollmeise scraps.  Her 2017 goal is to use up her scraps.Baubles & Bling:Sheila received a phlebotomist themed lanyard for her work ID from Wendy for Christmas (it came later than her other presents).Gossip & Innuendo:We drew a winner of the My Own Backyard pattern by Jennifer Lassonde! BOOK REVIEW:Double or Nothing: Reversible Knitting for the Adventurous by Alisdair Post-Quinn.  You can purchase a copy HERE on the Fallingblox Designs webpage.This book is definitely not for a new knitter unless you are extremely adventurous and willing to take on a challenge!  It is more suited to an experienced knitter or an adventurous intermediate knitter.We really liked a lot of features in this book.  First, it takes you through a series of double knitting projects where you can learn how to take double knitting to another level - double knitted lace, double knitted cables, double knitted colorwork and intarsia, etc.  Often there is a small sample project you can make to try out the new technique so you don't have to commit to a huge project.  That means you could learn the basics of the techniques in this book simply by making the swatch samples.  If you find you enjoy double knitting techniques, you can then move forward to one of the projects,  We also liked the detailed and nicely photographed tutorial pictures.  These are key any time you are learning a new technique and this book really does them well.  Likewise, all of the patterns were nicely photographed so you could really see the double knitting and how it differed on either side.  Finally, we liked that the author wove his own story about his knitting throughout the book.  Although the tone occasionally tended toward the bombastic in the author's story sections, they do connect the book with a personal narrative that makes for an enjoyable read.  All in all, this looks like an interesting challenge for people who want to do more with the double knitting technique and we would recommend it for those knitters.If you would like to win a copy of this book, enter the contest on our Ravelry page and tell us which pattern piques your interest!ALSO:We are still drawing prizes for random people on our Ravelry group membership list as we begin to wind down the podcast.  We will draw another batch of prizes in the next episode so stay tuned.Fiber EventsNone until 2017

This week's WIPs include the Lillian Fay sweater, Fox Paws shawl, Going Up sock, Grandma's Favorite washcloths, and a modified Rye sock. FOs include the Four Seasons sweater, the Recoleta cardigan, the Lemongrass pullover, washcloths, footie socks, the Wurm hat, headbands and vanilla Halloween socks in BMFA Punkin Chunkin colorway. Featured baubles and bling include our Christmas gifts to each other and new Knitpicks Felici. We have a big announcement at the end of the show, along with drawing 11 prizes!!!  SHOW NOTESShout Outs:This month's KAL/CAL is any project in your favorite Sports Team or School colors! Show your team/school loyalty! This KAL/CAL will run through December 31st. If you have a sports fan or school student, this would be the perfect opportunity to knit a Christmas gift!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue through December and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Lillian Fay Cardigan by Ellen Mason in Dream in Color Classy in the Flamingo Pie colorwayFox Paws by Xandy Peters in 5 colors of Sundara Yarn from deep stash.Going Up socks in Knit Picks Felici sock in the Dark Side colorway.Sheila is working on:Grandma's Favorite Dishcloth by Ruth Slate in kitchen cottonRye socks by Tincanknits in BMFA STR in the Garden Daze colorwayRate Your Date:Wendy finally blocked:Recoleta by Joji Locatelli in Berocco Inca GoldLemongrass pullover by Joji Locatelli in Malabrigo Twist in the Ravelry Red colorwayFour Seasons Jumper by Sarah Crawford in Briar Rose DK in the Glory Days colorwayOne Going Up sockSheila finished:Vanilla socks in BMFA, Punkin Chunkin colorwayThree washclothsVanilla footie socksWurm Hat by Katharina Nopp in Cascade YarnGeneric and Calorimtery Headband in Cascade YarnWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy will knit another sweater from yarn salvaged from her old sweatersSheila will slippers and more socksBaubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Felici Sock Yarn in the Lost Lakes, Beyond the Wall and Toucan colorways.Wendy received dishcloths, hand towels, hotpads/mitt and a dunkin donuts gift card.Sheila received an organ donation survivor bracelet from Greco Girl Jewelry on etsy and a dunkin donuts gift card.Gossip & Innuendo:CONTEST:My Own Backyard BY Jennifer Lasonde!  Tell us in our Ravelry group which gradient you would use to knit this shawl for an opportunity to win a copy of the pattern in our next episode.BOOK REVIEW of Double or Nothing: Reversible Knitting for the Adventurous by Alisdair Post-Quinn will be featured in our next episode, along with a contest!ALSO:We are drawing prizes for random people on our Ravelry group membership list as we begin to wind down the podcast.  We've had a great 5 years but at this season in our lives, we just don't have the ability to keep recording.  Stay tuned for the final episodes as we give away all the prizes we've amassed to our loyal viewers.  And check the end of the show to see if you are one of the 11 names we drew this week.Fiber EventsNone until 2017

 SHOW NOTESOops! This is NOT episode 364! This week is a parade of FOs! We show a sweater, lots of socks, a sample scarf, hats and Sheila's complete gradient color set. Clearly, we've been busy. Featured baubles and bling include two skeins of White Birch Fiber Arts self striping sock yarn, as well as a pattern from Wooly Wormhead. Festival season is officially over until Spa in Maine in February! Shout Outs:The new KAL/CAL is any project in your favorite Sports Team or School colors! Show your team/school loyalty! This KAL/CAL will run through December 31st. If you have a sports fan or school student, this would be the perfect opportunity to knit a Christmas gift!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Fox Paws by Xandy Peters in 5 colors of Sundara Yarn from deep stash.Going Up socks in Knit Picks Felici sock in the Dark Side colorway.Sheila is working on:Vanilla socks in BMFA, Punkin Chunkin colorwayRate Your Date:Wendy finished:Recoleta by Joji Locatelli in Berocco Inca GoldOne Going Up sockSheila finished:One vanilla sock in BMFA Punkin ChunkinEndeavour Socks by Nathan Taylor in String Theory Fiber Arts Caper sock, Bye Bye Blues colorwayBeginner's Stitch Sampler Scarf by Kristina Tucker in Berocco Vintage ChunkyDustland Hat by Stephen WestRibbed Watchman's Hat by Channah Koppel in Patriot's themed colorsGradient Wrap Cowl, Mitts and Hat based on the pattern Gradient Wrap Cowl by Elizabeth SmithWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy will knit Rubbish Mojitos Hat by Wooly WormheadSheila will knit headbands for her nieces and a Wurm Hat by Katerina NoppBaubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:White Birch Fiber Arts self-striping sock yarn in I Green of Dreamie and Electric Tentacle colorways.Gossip & Innuendo:The next fiber event is Spa in Freeport Maine, February 2017Fiber EventsNone until 2017

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Recoleta sweater, Going Up socks, vanilla socks, and a Beginner's Stitch Sampler Scarf. FOs include one Going Up sock, vanilla socks in Koigu and a Snuggle Sack with matching hat. Featured baubles and bling from Rhinebeck include Turtle Purl yarn in the Nano colorway, Gypsy Girl Creations in Tackle and Glacier Bay colorways, Crazy Dog Yarns in Maple Leaves in the Fall colorway and Fiber Optic Gradient set in Cherries Jubilee colorway. We picked 4 more winners of the charity shawl KAL too! Shout Outs:The new KAL/CAL is any project in your favorite Sports Team or School colors! Show your team/school loyalty! This KAL/CAL will run through December 31st. If you have a sports fan or school student, this would be the perfect opportunity to knit a Christmas gift!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Recoleta by Joji Locatelli in Berocco Inca GoldGoing Up socks in Knit Picks Felici sock in the Dark Side colorway.Sheila is working on:Vanilla socksBeginner's Stitch Sampler Scarf by Kristina Tucker in Chunky Berocco VintageRate Your Date:Wendy finished:One Going Up sockSheila finished:Vanilla sockSnuggle Sack and Hat (see her project page for details)Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy wants to knit Fox Paws by Xandy Peters and will rip out old sweater that are too large and reknit sweaters that fitSheila will finish what she has, and work on baby gifts.Baubles & Bling:Sheila purchased:Turtlepurl Yarns Self-Striping sock yarn in the Nano colorwayGypsy Girl Creations yarn in the Tackle and Glacier Bay colorwaysCrazy Dog Yarns in the Maple Leaves in the Fall colorwayFiber Optic Yarns gradient set in Cherries Jubilee Gossip & Innuendo:We picked four more winners of the Shawl Charity contest!Wendy will attend the Fiber Festival of New England - her only event this whole year.Fiber EventsNone until 2017

 SHOW NOTESThis week's episode is a little bit late due to Wendy's move and lack of internet. Sadly, the show notes are packed somewhere in the house! So enjoy the mystery content episode. We also had a lot of problems with iMovie so there are quite a few awkward transitions in this episode. In other words, this episode is brought to you via a lot of patience! Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.Show Notes Will Be Updated Once They Are Unpacked!Fiber EventsFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's FOs include Lemongrass sweater and No Purl Scarf. WIPs include Sitka Spruce, Recoleta cardigan, Vanilla socks in Koigu and Endeavour socks. We didn't have any Baubles and Bling this week, but we did draw four winners for the Charity Shawl contest! We are continuing the contest for another month, and more winners will be drawn at that time! Big thanks to those who donated prizes! Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September!Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Sitka Spruce Mittens by Tincanknits in Madeline Tosh DKRecoleta by Joji Locatelli in Berocco Inca GoldSheila is working on:Endeavour Socks by Nathan Taylor in String Theory Caper Sock Bye Bye Blues color way.Vanilla socks in KoiguRate Your Date:Wendy finished:Lemongrass Sweater by Joji Locatelli in Malabrigo Twist in the Ravelry Red color waySheila finished:No-Purl Ribbed Scarf by Purl Soho in Valley Yarns superwashWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy will finish what she has and knit socks.Sheila will finish what she has, and work on another vanilla sock.Baubles & Bling:Nothing this week.Gossip & Innuendo:Last week, we reintroduced the newest pattern by Jennifer Lasonde:  Riley Rose Shawl.  You could win a copy of this pattern by telling us in the contest thread which colors you would choose for this beautiful textural and multi-colored pattern.  We will draw a pattern in the next episodeWe drew 4 winners of prizes for the Shawl Charity KAL!  We will draw even more winners at the end of September!  So stay tuned.Fiber EventsFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESIt's been a while! WIPs this week include Lemongrass sweater, Sitka Spruce Mittens, Endeavor socks, Ribbed Scarf and Weigh It Shawl #4. FOs include Fountain socks, Jedi the Giraffe, Sitka Spruce Hat, North Shore Sweater, Regular guy's beanie, Super Stretchy Baby Hat, and Vanilla sock with colorwork. We get a lot done when we don't record, apparently. Sheila also showed a blanket repair she did for her LYS. Baubles and Bling include Stunning String markers, Knitter's Pride cable needles, and Knit Picks Royale needle sets. We will put up a thread for the Riley Rose shawl, which we forgot to do last time!! Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September,Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Sitka Spruce Mittens by Tincanknits in Madeline Tosh DKLemongrass Sweater by Joji Locatelli in Malabrigo Twist in the Ravelry Red color waySheila is working on:Endeavour Socks by Nathan Taylor in String Theory Caper Sock Bye Bye Blues color way.No-Purl Ribbed Scarf by Purl Soho in Valley Yarns superwashWeight It Shawl #4 by Susan B. Anderson in Tess YarnsRate Your Date:Wendy finished:Fountain Socks (Wendy's own design) in Knitpicks Felici in the Bubble colorwayNorth Shore by Tincanknits in MadelineTosh DK, Dream in Color Classy and Cascade 220.Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in various acrylic yarnsSitka Spruce Hat by Tincanknits in Madeline Tosh DK.Sheila finished:Regular Guy Beanie by Chuck Wright in Cascade 220Super Stretchy Baby Hat by Julie Tarsha in Cascade FixationVanilla Sock with colorwork in BMFA STR yarn set.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy will finish what she has and knit socks.Sheila will rework her Clapotis that is too long, and work on socks.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Stunning String Studio stitch markers.Knitter's Pride Dreamz Cable Needles Knitter's Pride Royale Deluxe Interchangeable Set Gossip & Innuendo:We reintroduced the newest pattern by Jennifer Lasonde:  Riley Rose Shawl.  You could win a copy of this pattern by telling us in the contest thread which colors you would choose for this beautiful textural and multi-colored pattern.Fiber EventsFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week, Wendy finally got her Webs order after it was mysteriously lost for 15 days. WIPs include No Purl Scarf, Basic Beanie, North Shore sweater and Bubble socks. FO was a Lined Beanie. Baubles and Bling this week was the missing Webs yarn! We drew a prize for the Ellsworth Tee contest and introduced the Riley Rose shawl, which we will be giving away in two weeks!!! Don't forget the Shawl Charity gift-along. Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September,Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Bubble Socks (Wendy's own design) in Knitpicks Felici in the Bubble colorwayNorth Shore by Tincanknits in MadelineTosh DK, Dream in Color Classy and Cascade 220.Sheila is working on:Patons Basic Beanie with Patons yarnNo-Purl Ribbed Scarf by Purl Soho in Valley Yarns superwashRate Your Date:Sheila finished:Fingering weight beanie based on Patons Basic Beanie and Lined Beanie Jawoll cotton blendWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy really has to finish Jedi the GiraffeSheila will knit the Endeavor Socks by Sockmatician for her Ravellenics knitting.  She is also thinking about doing the Yowza Weight Shawl No. 4 Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased (and finally received) 2 skeins of Cascade 220 and a skein of MadelineTosh DK in the Esoteric colorway.Gossip & Innuendo:We drew a winner of the Ellsworth Tee pattern by Carolyn Noyes!We also introduced the newest pattern by Jennifer Lasonde:  Riley Rose Shawl.  You could win a copy of this pattern by telling us in the contest thread which colors you would choose for this beautiful textural and multi-colored pattern.Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Bubble socks, North Shore sweater, Lined Beanie, and No-Purl rib scarf. FOs include Fishknit toe-up socs, CBD Fudge Neckcessory shawl and a Helix knitting hat. Featured Baubles and Bling include Knitpicks Stroll, Queen Bee Creations bag and Fishknits sock yarn in the Canadiana colorway. We drew a second Ellsworth Tee patter winner! One more will be drawn in the next episode!! Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September,Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Bubble Socks (Wendy's own design) in Knitpicks Felici in the Bubble colorwayNorth Shore by Tincanknits in MadelineTosh DK, Dream in Color Classy and Cascade 220.Sheila is working on:Fingering weight beanie based on Patons Basic Beanie and Lined Beanie Jawoll cotton blendNo-Purl Ribbed Scarf by Purl Soho in Valley Yarns superwashRate Your Date:Sheila finished:Generic Toe-Up socks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.CBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in her CBD yarn.Helix Hat by Jessica RoseWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy really has to finish Jedi the GiraffeSheila plans to finish what she has on the needles and start a pair of socks with colorwork inspired by the Chicane Socks  by Debbie O'Neill out of BMFA STR.  She wis also thinking about doing the Yowza Weight Shawl No. 4 Baubles & Bling:Nothing this week!Gossip & Innuendo:We drew a winner of the Ellsworth Tee pattern by Carolyn Noyes!  Stay tuned, because there will be one more chance to win.Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week begins our annual prayer/comfort shawl drive! If you have new or gently used shawls, you can donate them to get a chance at winning prizes! WIPs this week include North Shore sweater, Bubble socks, Fishknit vanilla socks, and CBD Fudge Neckcessory shawl. FOs include one Bubble sock and No-Purl Monkey socks. No Baubles and Bling this week. We drew winners for the monthly BMFA KAL/CAL/SAL and the Yellow-themed KAL/CAL. We also drew the first winner of the Ellsworth Tee pattern by Carolyn Noyes. Two more winners will be drawn, so stay tuned. Shout Outs:There will be no KAL/CAL this month.  Instead, please consider knitting a shawl to donate to our friend Lise at Webs.  Or, check through your stash of handknits to see if you have a gently used shawl to donate.  Every donation allows you a chance to win prizes.  The shawl drive will run through the end of September,Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Bubble Socks (Wendy's own design) in Knitpicks Felici in the Bubble colorwayNorth Shore by Tincanknits in MadelineTosh DK, Dream in Color Classy and Cascade 220.Sheila is working on:Generic Toe-Up socks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.CBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in her CBD yarn.Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:One Bubble sockSheila finished:No Purl Monkey Socks by Cookie A, modified by Craftypancakes in BMFA Jingle Bell Rock colorway.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy just needs to finish projects.Sheila plans to finish what she has on the needles and start a pair of socks with colorwork inspired by the Chicane Socks  by Debbie O'Neill out of BMFA STR.Baubles & Bling:Nothing this week!Gossip & Innuendo:We drew winners of our two monthly KAL/CALs.We drew a winner of the Ellsworth Tee pattern by Carolyn Noyes!  Stay tuned, because there will be two more chances to win.Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Jedi the Giraffe, Bubble socks, No Purl Monkey socks, vanilla toe-up socks, and CBD Neckcessory. FOs include the not really Extempore shawl, Indigo Frost poncho, Flutterby socks and one monkey sock. Featured Baubles and Bling include Fibernymph Dyeworks and Knitpicks yarn. We drew a winner of the Knit Your Skirt contest and announce a new pattern designed by Carolyn Noyes with three chances to win! Shout Outs:The KAL/CAL is based on YELLOW!  Do any project with at least 50% yellow yarn.  We will draw a winner next week.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in Anne Geddes baby yarnBubble Socks (Wendy's own design) in Knitpicks Felici in the Bubble colorwaySheila is working on:Generic Toe-Up socks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.No Purl Monkey Socks by Cookie A, modified by Craftypancakes in BMFA Jingle Bell Rock colorway.CBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in her CBD yarn.Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Extempore Shawl by Briony Singleton (heavily modified) in Freia Handpaints.Sheila finished:Flutterby socks in the BMFA Seascape colorway for a friend.One No Purl Monkey sockWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit a sweater in a few months, and will probably start some socks.Sheila plans to finish what she has on the needles.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Fibernymph Dyeworks Bedazzled Sock in Mixed Up KittyKnitpicks Felici in Bubble, Dark Side and Sprinkle.Sheila received:bracelet from Crystal Butterfly Company in exchange for socks she knit.Wendy and Sheila received Sock Rulers from Lise at Webs!Gossip & Innuendo:We drew a winner of the Knit My Skirt contest.We announced a new contest to win the Ellsworth Tee pattern by Carolyn Noyes!  To win, just tell us which colors you would knit it in.  We will draw one winner a week from the contest thread for three weeks!Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include the Indigo Frost poncho, Jedi the Giraffe, a granny square pot holder, toe-up striped socks and Flutterby socks Sheila is finishing for a friend. No FOs this week, but Sheila finished one sock. Baubles and Bling include a Sucre Sucre progress marker and Dyeabolical Targhee sock in the Mint to Be watercolor striping colorway. Don't forget to play in our Knit My Skirt contest!! Winner will be drawn next week. Shout Outs:The New KAL/CAL is based on YELLOW!  Do any project with at least 50% yellow yarn.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in Anne Geddes baby yarnIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Sheila is working on:Generic Toe-Up socks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.Granny square cotton dish clothRate Your Date:Sheila finished one toe-up striped sock and reknit a BMFA Flutterby sock in the Seascape colorway for a friend.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit a sweater in a few months, and will probably start some socks.Sheila plans to finish what she has on the needles.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Sucre Sucre Miniatures Hostess cupcake progress markerWendy won:Dyeabolical Yarns Targhee sock in the Mint to Be watercolor stripes colorwayGossip & Innuendo: Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Jedi the Giraffe, Indigo Frost poncho, Ex Tempore shawl, vanilla ankle socks and vanilla toe-up socks. No dates to rate, but Wendy finished a lot of little African Flower motifs for the giraffe. We announce the winner of the May BMFA KAL/CAL and we review the new XRX book Knit My Skirt. Shout Outs:The New KAL/CAL is based on YELLOW!  Do any project with at least 50% yellow yarn.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in Anne Geddes baby yarnIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Ex tempore shawl by Briony SingletonSheila is working on:Generic cuff down shorty sock in cotton yarnGeneric To-Upsocks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.Rate Your Date:None this week, although Wendy finished a ton of African Violet motifs for her Giraffe.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit a sweater in a few months, and will probably start some socks.Sheila plans to finish what she has on the needles.Baubles & Bling:Nothing this week.Gossip & Innuendo:BOOK REVIEW:We reviewed a new XRX book, Knit My Skirt by Candace Eisner Strick.  It is available on the XRX website and also on Amazon!We both really liked this book.  The concept is simple:  this book teaches you how to make a custom-fitting skirt and how to add an undergarment to give it structure.  The patterns are sorted by construction:  bottom up, top down and side to side.  There really is something for everyone in the variety of designs.  We didn't like some styles and we loved others.  There are definitely some skirts that need a slender figure, but there were also plenty that would work on larger sizes.  The fact that you customize your skirt makes it way more likely the end product will be flattering!This book is well written and includes a lot of great extras.  There is a history of the skirt that we both really enjoyed reading.  The photography is great and each pattern shows a lot of views of the skirt so you can see the garment as a whole but also see close-ups of important features.  We love a book with plenty of good photos!  It includes the usual features like a stitch guide and instructions, and the e-book also has hyperlinks to the patterns from the index, which is a another feature we both love.  There's even a clever section explaining why you NEED a knit skirt, and providing a counterargument to all the reasons you don't think you want one.  If you are interested in knitting a different kind of garment and learning how to make it your exact size, this is a great book for you.  It is probably best suited to intermediate knitters and above, but an enthusiastic beginner could definitely tackle some of the patterns.Fiber EventsFiber Revival Aug 13, Spencer Peirce Little Farm, Newbury, MAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Episode 53 is brought to you by Never Not Knitting and The Sock Ruler!   Knitting Segments Show-Ready Knits Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder I knitted these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.   Stash Dash is a Summer KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls video podcast!      Knits in Rehearsal Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I've been following the pattern in Spanish, more about that in a later segment.     Ballsack by Jennifer Sugarcane     Rainbow Vanilla Socks in White Birch Fiber Arts   I'm using the OMG Heel pattern by Megan Williams   This episode of Actually Knitting is brought to you by the Never Not Knitting online shop where you will find unusual gifts and notions for knitters such as handcarved knitting needles, specialty buttons, and stitch marker jewelry. Check out the latest offerings at nevernotknitting.com. Looking for a new project to knit? Use the coupon code PalKal2016 to receive 50% off of a pdf pattern of your choice!     Knitting News, Notes and Events PalKal2016 officially begins on June 15th!   Rules:  The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag or stitch marker by a podcaster! The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it’s a finished product. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us! You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes are listed in the appropriate threads and will be listed on the podcast as well. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting. Enter as many projects as you like! There is no minimum yardage requirement or limit to the projects you can enter. If you use more than one podcaster product/design/bag/etc on one project, you may create multiple entries for that project. For example: Knit the Zigzagular Socks by prairiegirlsusie using yarn by Oh! Loops and use a project bag by thefatsquirrel, you can enter that project into the FO thread 3 separate times, just link to each podcaster seperately in each post. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way). The same applies for stitch markers. Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, 2016. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie! Please support as many different podcasts as you can! Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner! Use the tag PALKAL2016 here on Ravelry and #palkal2016 on Instagram. Feel free to double, triple, quadruple dip!     Some of the KALs going on this summer: Around Your Neck KAL with the Suburban Stitcher Podcast Splash Pad Party with the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Great Outdoors Kal with Knitting Butterflies  Batter Up Kal with In a Sknit   We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! Today I will highlight our Cameo Sponsors who are donating prizes for the KAL. For more information, check out the threads on Ravelry in the Actually Knitting Podcast Group.    Jenn Sheelan Designs and Podcast     Lilliput Yarn     One Twisted Tree/Prairie Girl Danie of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast      The Relentless Knitting Podcast     The Twisted Stitches Podcast     Unwind Yarn Company/Dana from the Just One More Row Podcast     I am also highlighting the prizes being offered by these Top Billing Sponsors. These sponsors have donated prizes as well as coupon codes. More information about all of this can be found in the threads on the Ravelry group, but today we will focus on the prizes.    Ancient Threads Farm Etsy Shop and Website/Podcast        A skein of yarn, winner's choice.      Ann of the Carolina Fiber Girls         Copy of the Fletcher's Falling Leaves Sock Pattern       Brenda Castiel Designs        3 Patterns of winners' choice Daniela Richardson from Caffeinated Knitting        5 Patterns from her Ravelry Store.      Janis Ficker/ of the Carolina Fiber Girls         Copy of her 10 Day Sweater Pattern      C.C. Almon from the Geeky Girls Knit Podcast         Copy of her ebook, Coffee with C.C.      Jennifer Lassonde of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast         Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Store   Knitting Daddy Greg of the Unraveling Podcast          2 copies of his Scrappy Sock Yarn Preemie Hat   Mary of the Kino Knits Podcast          Copy of her Adrenaline Junkie Sock Pattern    Kristine Beeson of the Yarnings Podcast          Winner's Choice of pattern from her Ravelry Store     Paula of the Knitting Pipeline Podcast          5 patterns from her Ravelry store and one winner will receive a shawl quantity of yarn from Quince           and Co.    Sarah Shoo of Cultivate and Create Podcast          3 patterns from her Ravelry Shop   Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast          Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Shop   Ashley of Twist Fiber Studio and the Twisted Stitcher Podcast           Project bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop       Zombody Knits             A project bag from her Etsy Shop   Please check out the threads on Ravelry for photos and more information and remember that all of the Top Billing Sponsors have provided coupon codes as well, which you can also find in the Ravelry group.     Knitting Talkback: Tejer en Español I answered a question from the Ask me Anything thread on Ravelry about knitting/crochet in Spanish. Here's the link to the knitting abbreviations I referred to in the talkback.   I talk a little about my experience knitting the Pure Joy Shawl (link above) using the Spanish version of the pattern.   Episode 53 is brought to you by The Sock Ruler. The Sock Ruler is an innovative measuring tool for sock knitters. Whether the sock is knit toe up or cuff down the ruler works equally well.  It is constructed of a heavy duty, yet flexible plastic and measures from the inside of the sock, allowing the sock to lie flat and ensure accurate measurements."   Visit our website, www.sockruler.com, for more information and don’t forget to use coupon code “palkal2016” for 25% off of a regular sock ruler from now until September 15th. Limit 1 regular Sock Ruler per customer, US customers only.     Stage Craft I have finished my favorite sewing project to date, the jumpsuit pattern Butterick 6330.  It looks great!   I mentioned that I got my fabric from GirlCharlee Fabrics, about which I have mixed reviews.     One Pot Wonder Balsamic Chicken and Brussel's Sprouts    Love it or Leave it Love: It's Porch Season   Leave: Raining on my cookout night! (Update, it didn't rain! We had a great time at the cookout!)   Other News and Notes   Running Updates   I ran a 10k at Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, NC. It was a fun time!    Official Marathon Training Starts June 4th, 2016   Reading Updates I finished listening to  The Girl with All the Gifts by M. R. Carey I gave this book 3 stars, it just wasn't my thing   I also finished reading Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn   I also started listening to Dumplin' by Julie Murphy and I am really enjoying it.   I started reading Tricky Twenty-two by Janet Evanovich   Otherwise...   School is almost finished for the year! Soon I'll be #knittinlikeitsmyjob   My mom and I are going to see Dolly Parton in concert! This is a dream come true!                  

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Ex Tempore shawl, Indigo Frost poncho, Jedi the Giraffe, Cuff down shorty socks, Toe Up generic socks and CBD Fudge Neckcessory. FOs include toe-up Patons Kroy socks. No knitting related Baubles and Bling this year. We will be reviewing a new book from XRX called "Knit My Skirt" next week, so stay tuned! Shout Outs:The New KAL/CAL is based on YELLOW!  Do any project with at least 50% yellow yarn.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in Anne Geddes baby yarnIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Ex tempore shawl by Briony SingletonSheila is working on:Generic cuff down shorty sock in cotton yarnCBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in CBD Metallic Spice from her new yarn line.Generic To-Upsocks in Fishknits self-striping yarn in the Fuji Fight Like A Girl colorway, which Sheila has renamed "Running on Recycled Parts" because green is for organ donation.Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:Generic Patons Kroy socks.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit a sweater in a few months, and will probably start some socks.Sheila plans to knit a sockhead beanie.Baubles & Bling:Nothing this week.Gossip & Innuendo:We will be reviewing a new XRX book, Knit My Skirt by Candace Eisner Strick next week.  We will also have a contest to win this book, so stay tuned!Fiber EventsMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week we review Stephannie Tallent's new Craftsy class! WIPs include Jedi the Giraffe, Indigo Frost, Ex tempore shawl and vanilla socks. FOs include Atomic Blender socks and one vanilla sock. Featured Baubles and Bling is a bag from Tricia Paul Designs. Shout Outs:The New KAL/CAL is based on YELLOW!  Do any project with at least 50% yellow yarn.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.This week, we review Stephannie Tallent's new Craftsy class!  See below for a summary review.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jedi the Curious Giraffe by Heidi Bears in Anne Geddes baby yarnIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Ex tempore shawl by Briony SingletonSheila is working on:Generic cuff down sockRate Your Date:Sheila finished:Atomic Blender socks.  Design will be out this week.Sheila also finished a generic cuff down sock.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:If the crocheted toy goes well, Wendy my try another of these patterns.Sheila has chosen her next skin of BMFA and will knit socks.Baubles & Bling:Sheila purchased:bag from Tricia Paul DesignsGossip & Innuendo:REVIEW:Wendy watched the new Craftsy course by Stephannie Tallent:  Custom Colorworks Techniques:  Mitts.  This is a great course if you want to take your knitting from following patterns as written (and always being a little disappointed by the outcome) to customizing everything about a project.  Not only will this teach you how to customize an existing mitt pattern, but it will give you the skills to design your own pattern and to begin to learn how to customize everything that you knit.The class is packed with extras that can really help up your knitting game.  For those who dread chart reading, there is a nice section on how to read charts to give you a leg up.  There is also a great section on the color wheel and how to select colors that go well together.  I think this is a key skill that everyone could use.  You will also learn how to use knitter's graph paper (and where to source it), how to do the necessary math calculations for the project, and how to get inspired to create your own pattern motifs.  As with all Craftsy classes, you will get downloadable class materials that you can refer to again and again while doing future projects.  And Stephanie is there to answer any questions that you post on the class as you go along.I would not recommend this class for beginning knitters unless you are very adventurous.  You will at least need to know stockinette, garter, knitting in the round, stranded colorwork, increases/decreases and chart reading (although you can learn about charts in the handy tutorial).  At the end of this class you will have a perfectly fitting pair of mitts in colors you love with the design of your choice!  And this could be the beginning of you modifying patterns to suit what YOU want instead of settling for what the designer likes.  Two thumbs up!Fiber EventsMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Atomic Blender socks, Ex Tempore shawl, and Indigo Frost poncho. FOs include Opal yarn socks in the Harry Potter colorway, 1 Atomic Blender sock and one felt slipper. Featured Baubles and Bling include a birthday bag of recovery goodies for Wendy from Sheila, Hamamelis Shawl pattern by Kristin Kapur, Fireflies Rising Shawl pattern and Summertide Shawl pattern by Helen Stewart. We also got donations this week! Thank you! Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL prizes are drawn this week!  We will post the new KAL/CAL next week.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  Because she was unable to record today, she will draw a winner in the next episode.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available soon.This Way That Way socks by Mina Philipp in Knitpicks Felici in the Teacup colorway.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit the Extempore shawl by Briony Singleton in Freia Handpaints Metropolis gradient.  She also plans to knit the Pebble Beach shawl  by Helen Stewart.  These will both be great recovery shawls.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:The Lemonade Shop Yarns fingering weight in the Disco Hippo colorwayGossip & Innuendo:Wendy drew the KAL/CAL winners this week.  She will post a 50% off code in the group for those who wish to purchase Stephannie Tallent's Craftsy class.  Her review of the class will be in the next episode.Fiber EventsMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Knitting Segments   Knits in Rehearsal Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.   Memories Blanket by Georgie Nicolson   Stash Dash Plans Stash Dash is a Summer KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls video podcast!  Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I can't wait to get this!   Worsted Boxy   Hermione's Everyday socks (linked above)   Rainbow Vanilla Socks   Astonish Top   Endpaper Mitts    Effortless Cardigan   Ice Shanty by Amy Miller      Knitting News, Notes and Events World Wide Knit in Public Day is June 18th, 2016     Hamilton Contest I forgot to draw a winner on Episode 51, so listen up to see if you are the lucky winner! Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for donating this prize!      Broadway Kal This Kal ended on April 30th and prizes were drawn. If you haven't listened to Episode 51 please check it out to see if you were a winner!   PalKal 2016 This is the biggest and best event of the year for Actually Knitting listeners!   What is the PalKal?   The PalKal will run June 15- September 15 2016   The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster! The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it’s a finished product. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us! You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes can be found on the show notes and in the specially labeled threads in the Actually Knitting group on Ravelry.  Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way). You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie! Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner! Use the tag #palkal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.  Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, doesn’t matter when they were started.     Featured Performer Sponsors are coming in everyday and so far there are coupon codes available from the following sponsors:    Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting   Brenda Castiel    Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting   Knitting Daddy Greg from Unraveling with Greg and Joey   Mary from Kino Knits   Sarah Shoo from Cultivate and Create   Susie from The Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast   The coupon code for all vendors is PalKal2016 to keep things simpler this year! Thanks so much to all of the sponsors!   There will be a special Actually Knitting PalKal mini skein kit available from One Twisted Tree on May 17th, 2016, at 7am CST.          Knitting Talkback: Yarn and Knit Wear Storage This episode I answered a question from the What Would You Like to Hear about thread in the Ravelry group.   I referenced this blog post about yarn-eating insects and also this information about using cedar to keep the bugs away.   I like to store my shawls and other knitted items in hanging soft shelves like these from Amazon.   Non-Knitting Segments One Pot Wonders Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken  (not a true one-pot recipe but really delicious)   Love it or Leave it Love: Josh is cooking more now that we have a pressure cooker   Leave: My public library often has the first book in a series but none of the others!    Other News and Notes   Actually Reading I finished reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith   I'm still reading The Girl with All the Gifts by M. R. Carey   Actually Running No big updates to report. 

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIP is the Indigo Frost poncho. FOs include Atomic Blender and This Way That Way socks. Featured Baubles and Bling is yarn from The Lemonade Shop. Wendy draws winners of the bi-monthly KAL and announces a code to get Stephannie Tallent's Craftsy class for 50% off! Wendy will review that class in the next episode. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL prizes are drawn this week!  We will post the new KAL/CAL next week.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  Because she was unable to record today, she will draw a winner in the next episode.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway.Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available soon.This Way That Way socks by Mina Philipp in Knitpicks Felici in the Teacup colorway.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Wendy plans to knit the Extempore shawl by Briony Singleton in Freia Handpaints Metropolis gradient.  She also plans to knit the Pebble Beach shawl  by Helen Stewart.  These will both be great recovery shawls.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:The Lemonade Shop Yarns fingering weight in the Disco Hippo colorwayGossip & Innuendo:Wendy drew the KAL/CAL winners this week.  She will post a 50% off code in the group for those who wish to purchase Stephannie Tallent's Craftsy class.  Her review of the class will be in the next episode.Fiber EventsMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Atomic Blender socks, generic cuff down socks and This Way That Way socks. That's a lot of socks! FOs include cotton footie socks, Atomic Blender socks and one This Way That Way socks. Featured Baubles and Bling include Rock and String Creations sock yarn in the Miss Congeniality colorway, Freia Fine Handpaints in the Metropolis colorway, and Knitter's Pride Cubics needles. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw the next winner in May.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:This Way That Way socks by Mina Philipp in Knitpicks Felici in the Teacup colorway.Sheila is working on:Be My Valentine Socks by the Cozy Knitter in unlabeled cotton sock yarn.  She will not be using the cable pattern, just the gusset and heel combo.Atomic Blender socks in BMFA mill end.CBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in CBD Metallic Spice from her new yarn line (which we reviewed last episode). Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:One Atomic Blender sock.Be My Valentine Socks by the Cozy Knitter in unlabeled cotton sock yarn.  She did not use the cable pattern, just the gusset and heel combo on a footie sock.Wendy finished:Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available when the sample socks are knit.One This Way That Way sock.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila will knit socks.Wendy needs to finish her current WIPs..Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Freia Fine Handpaints sport gradient in the Metropolis colorwayRock and String Creations self-striping yarn in the Miss Congeniality colorwaySheila purchased:Various sizes of Knitter's Pride Cubics needlesGossip & Innuendo:Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Knitting Segments    I mentioned the Unraveling with Greg and Joey podcast, check those guys out if you get a second!    Show Ready Knits Bryum by Cailliau Berangere I mentioned a flub I had with a dropped stitch, which I was able to repair using my Fix a Stitch.   Knits in Rehearsal Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.   Memories Blanket by Georgie Nicolson Auditioning Knits Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I can't wait to get this!    Ice Shanty by Amy Miller    Knitting News, Notes and Events  We wrapped up the Broadway Kal on April 30th and we have several prizes to give away. Make sure to listen to see if you are one of the lucky ones!    The PalKal will be starting in June. I am looking for prizes and sponsors, so email me if you are interested!    I mentioned World Wide Knit in Public day which is June 18, 2016.    I also mentioned the Knit Girllls podcast and their KAL, Stash Dash. Check out their podcast.    I also mentioned a new to me video podcast called Legacy Knitz.  Non-Knitting Segments What a Crock! Crock Pot 5 Ingredient Honey Sriracha Chicken    Love it or Leave it Love: Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Season 2, is out on Netflix.    Leave: Packaging issues   Stage Craft I've been doing a lot of sewing and finished a pattern I will definitely be making again.  McCall's M6654 is a great value and I am learning more about lining garments and using my serger.  I am loving the fabric selections from Girl Charlee Fabrics.    I am currently working on a jumpsuit from Butterick's B6330.      Other News and Notes   Books   I finished reading 2 books:    Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay   Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave   I started reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith      Running   Thanks so much for donating to Team Taps and my efforts towards running the 41st annual Marine Corps Marathon in October of this year. Fundraising is far from over, so if you are interesting in donating, it's not too late.      Other May is shaping up to be a very busy month and final exams will be here before I know it, so I hope to keep a regular recording schedule for the month. 

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Indigo Frost Poncho, Atomic Blender Socks, Toe-up ankle socks, and CBD Fudge Neckcessory. We had two PHD's: one Atomic Blender sock and one ankle sock. Baubles and bling this week included a bag and notions from Knittingsmybag, Sockotta gifted to Sheila by a viewer and a miniature LL Bean bag. We also announce an upcoming Craftsy class review and a contest being held by designer Stephannie Tallent to win the class for free! Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw the next winner in May.We will also be reviewing a new Craftsy class by designer Stephannie Tallent called "Custom Colorwork Techniques:  Mitts" which will roll out around May 2.  Stephannie is holding a contest HERE up until the class release date where you can win the class for free!  Once the class is live, we will review it on the show and have a 50% coupon code for our viewers.  So, if you haven't checked out Craftsy yet, this is a good opportunity to do it.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available when the sample socks are knit.Sheila is working on:Be My Valentine Socks by the Cozy Knitter in unlabeled cotton sock yarn.  She will not be using the cable pattern, just the gusset and heel combo.Atomic Blender socks in BMFA mill end.CBD Fudge Neckcessory by Deborah Tomasello in CBD Metallic Spice from her new yarn line (which we reviewed last episode). Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:One ankle sock.Wendy finished:One Atomic Blender sock.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila will knit something (possibly the Simple Skyp Socks  by Adrienne Ku with her BMFA yarn of the month, a mill end in purple and blue.Wendy needs to finish her current WIPs and will definitely cast on another sock.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Bag and notions from Knittingsmybag.Sheila received:Sockotta Yarn from a viewerA miniature LL Bean bag that Wendy bought her for Christmas but lost until this week!Gossip & Innuendo:Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Knitting Segments Show Ready Knits Vanilla Socks for Josh         Knits in Rehearsal    Bryum shawl  Yarn purchased at my favorite yarn shop, Black Mountain Yarn Shop.   Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.   I used the OMG heel by Megan Williams on these socks and I will be using this heel a lot in the future.   Vanilla Socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts       Auditioning Knits I'm looking for the perfect Rhinebeck Sweater! I have 1500 yards of a beautiful 100% Sport Weight in a gorgeous golden yellow.    Stay the Same by Veera Valimaki   Still Light Tunic by Veera Valimaki   Cosi by Judy Brien    The Reviews are In This episode I reviewed Henry's Hat by Eric and Joanna Johnson. Thanks to the folks at Slate Falls Press for sending me this review copy.    Knitting News, Notes and Events The Broadway KAL is up and running!  I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.   Cast on: February 15, 2016 Bind off: April 30, 2016 Wips Count!   The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours). How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you! There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work. This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread. Prizes!   1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde   1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique   2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm   Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for the donation of an Original Cast Recording of Hamilton. Listen up to find out about the prompt for this giveaway and thanks to Thuy for the prize.    There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.   PAL KAL is coming up this summer!    Today I answered a question in the Ask me Anything thread in the group on Ravelry.    Non-Knitting Segments   One Pot Wonder One Pot Wonder Southwest Pasta    Love it or Leave it Love it: Ice Cream, specifically Ben and Jerry's Salted Caramel Blondie   Leave it: I have a friend who is coping with the loss of a loved one.    Other News and Notes Finished Books        The Daughter by Jane Shemilt.    Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. Warning, this book is very graphic and disturbing.    Currently Listening to:  The Girl with All the Gifts   Currently Reading:  Furiously Happy   Running Updates   I wil be running in the 41st Annual Marine Corps Marathon in October 2016! I am scared and excited.  I am raising money in memory of my cousin Jacob, who was a Marine who served 2 tours in Iraq, and passed away in 2011. I would love to raise some more money this month in honor of his birthday on April 20th. Please check out my fundraising page and donate if you can. 

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Indigo Frost poncho, Atomic Blender socks, and Be My Valentine socks (without the cable). FOs include BMFA mill ends vanilla toe up sock. Baubles and Bling include Fibernymph Bounce sock in the Oops Blue and Gray colorway, and a review of Deborah Tomasello's new customizable yarn line (you won't want to miss this). Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw the next winner in May.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available when the sample socks are knit.Sheila is working on:Be My Valentine Socks by the Cozy Knitter in unlabeled cotton sock yarn.  She will not be using the cable pattern, just the gusset and heel combo.Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:Vanilla toe-up socks in BMFA mill end (heavy weight)Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila will knit something (possibly the Simple Skyp Socks  by Adrienne Ku with her BMFA yarn of the month, a mill end in purple and blue.Wendy needs to finish her current WIPsBaubles & Bling:Sheila purchased:Fibernymph Dyeworks Bounce sock in the Oops Blue and Gray color way.REVIEW:We received a sample of Colorworks by Debi Yarns, where you can customize the yarn by picking strands of different colors and/or fiber composition to make a 2, 3 or more ply yarn.  The sample we were sent was a cotton and tencel skein that had a lovely color, drape and shine.  Sheila will be knitting a project with the yarn, since Wendy has sensory issues with cotton based yarns. At first we thought the yarn was a laceweight until we unwound the skein a bit and understood the unique concept.  Debi takes strands of different yarns and winds them together.  It's like knitting with two strands held together, except she does the work for you and winds them up together in any combination you like!  And you can pick from many colors and bases to get the perfect customized yarn for your project.  She has price information and more on her website, which we linked above.  You can also join her Ravelry group HERE.Gossip & Innuendo:Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include the Atomic Blender sock, Indigo Frost poncho and a vanilla toe up sock. FOs include the Super Stretchy Baby Hat and Crafty Toes baby socks. No featured Baubles and Bling this week, but we have a long talk about medically-assisted weight loss and Wendy makes an announcement. We draw winners of the Masterpiece Knits pdf and the monthly BMFA KAL/CAL. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw the next winner in May.  We drew March's winner in this episode.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Indigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Atomic Blender socks in Dyeabolical Yarn Targhee sock in the Atomic Blender colorway.  Pattern will be available when the sample socks are knit.Sheila is working on:Vanilla toe-up socks in BMFA mill end (heavy weight)Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:Super Stretchy Baby Hat by Julia Tarsha in Plymouth Happy Feet (red colorway).Cozy Little Toes by Judy Kaethler in Plymouth Happy FeetWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila will knit something with self-striping yarnWendy needs to finish her current WIPsBaubles & Bling:NoneGossip & Innuendo:We drew a winner of Masterpiece Knits from Dragonfly Yarns.  We also drew a winner of the March edition of the BMFA KAL/CAL/SAL!!Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Episode 49   I mentioned the iTunes review from one of the hosts of Unraveling with Greg and Joey, check them out if you get a chance.   Knits in Rehearsal Vanilla Socks for Josh   Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.   Vanilla Socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts    Bryum shawl  Yarn purchased at my favorite yarn shop, Black Mountain Yarn Shop.   Worsted Boxy  My favorite Miss Babs Yarn, gotta love it!   Auditioning Knits It's not been released yet, but Joji Locatelli has a new shawl pattern coming out (hopefully) soon. Check out her Instagram feed to see the picture.    I mentioned having seen the shawl on the Suburban Stitcher Podcast.  Knitting News, Notes and Events News The Broadway KAL is up and running!  I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.   Cast on: February 15, 2016 Bind off: April 15, 2016 Wips Count!   The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours). How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you! There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work. This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread. Prizes!   1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde   1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique   2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.  2 patterns from Estella Haines' Ravelry Shop.    New Prize Offering!  Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for the donation of an Original Cast Recording of Hamilton. Listen up to find out about the prompt for this giveaway and thanks to Thuy for the prize.    There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.   Notes My mother came for a visit and I taught her how to knit and she loves it! I'm so happy! She's working on her first ever pattern, the Sugar Cubes Baby Washcloth.    Events I attended the Carolina Fiber Frolic a couple of weekends ago and I had am amazing time. Listen up for a short recap of the event.   Heather Storta was the teacher and I really enjoyed taking classes with her.       Non-Knitting Segments One-Pot Wonders One Skillet Cream Cheese Mexican Chicken and Rice     Love it or Leave it Love: Peloton Bike   Leave: End of Quarter Stress     StageCraft I've been working on even more sewing! Check out my Instagram to see the pics of the bags I have finished this week. I used Ellie Mae Designs K155 and McCalls M6256 for my project bags.    Book News/Notes   Thanks to a listener for suggesting Modern Mrs. Darcy for book recommendations. I also heard about it on the Cultivate and Create podcast.    Currently Reading   Started reading The Daughter by Jane Shemilt.    Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. Warning, this book is very graphic and disturbing.    Finished Reading The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty   Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear   Running Updates I am back at it, training for a 10k in May. No pain, so hopefully the injury is healed. 

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Indigo Frost poncho and Super Stretchy Baby Hat. FOs include a pair of cuff down vanilla socks and Wendy FINALLY finished her Jeck socks. Featured Baubles and Bling include notions from Stitched by Jessalu and a gradient set from Wonderland Yarns. We give lots of random technology advice in this episode. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw a new winner during the first episode in April.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Cache Cache Cowl by Kiki Kawaii in Into the Whirled Manchester sock cashmere/merino/nylon yarn, Double Rainbow colorwayIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Sheila is working on:Super Stretchy Baby Hat by Julia Tarsha in Plymouth Happy Feet (red colorway).Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:Jeck Sock by Regina Satta in Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base, Lucky Cat colorway.Sheila finished:Vanilla cuff down socks in Opal cotton.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila will knit hats and socks.Wendy plans to design a new sock.Baubles & Bling:Wendy purchased:Wonderland Yarns Cheshire Cat fingering weight in the Dormouse gradient.Stitched By Jessalu notions pouchesGossip & Innuendo:We are giving away a copy of Masterpiece Knits from Dragonfly Yarns in episode 246.  Just tell us which pattern you would knit in the contest thread on Ravelry before our next episode!Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Jeck Socks, Cache Cache cowl, Indigo Frost poncho and generic cuff-down socks. FOs include one vanilla sock. We review Dragonfly Fibers Masterpiece Knits this week! Don't forget to play along in the Ravelry group for a chance to win a copy. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw a new winner during the first episode in April.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jeck Sock by Regina Satta in Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base, Lucky Cat colorway.Cache Cache Cowl by Kiki Kawaii in Into the Whirled Manchester sock cashmere/merino/nylon yarn, Double Rainbow colorwayIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Sheila is working on:Generic Cuff-Down sock in Opal Cotton.Rate Your Date:Sheila finished:One cuff down sock.Whirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila needs to finish some projects and will knit more socks, possibly Rose City Rollers and a pair for herself from her BMFA heavyweight mill end.Wendy plans to design a new sock when she finishes the ones on her needles.Baubles & Bling:Nothing this weekGossip & Innuendo:BOOK REVIEW:This week we are reviewing Masterpiece Knits from Dragonfly Fibers.  You can purchase a pdf copy of this book on Ravelry for $18 or a hard copy plus a code for the pdf version on the Dragonfly Fibers website.The book is unusual in that it is centered around Dragonfly Fibers colorways based on fine art.  We both thought all of the featured colorways were beautiful.  The book has 15 patterns that would be suitable for almost any level of knitter.  There are simple projects for beginners as well as more complex projects for knitters with more experience.  Basically, something for everyone!We had a little trouble with the format at first as it came up on our devices with two pages at a time, which made it difficult to follow.  Wendy discovered by accident that if she sized the page up to fit only one page on the screen, it shifted to a one page at a time format, which made it much easier to read.  The patterns range from simple hats to sweaters, and include techniques like intarsia, cabling and textured stitches.  We really liked a lot of the patterns, most of which would work great with semi-solid and more variegated yarns.  The sweater patterns do come in some larger sizes for knitters who need them.  This book is definitely worth a look, especially if you love Dragonfly Fibers or fine art.  It is definitely a collection that will have you knitting more than one pattern.We will be giving away a copy of this book in episode 246.  Just tell us which pattern you would knit in the contest thread on Ravelry!Fiber EventsConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Knitting Segments   Show Ready Knits Virgie Clay by Sarah Stevens   Los Monos Locos by Jennifer O'Sullivan   Knits in Rehearsal Vanilla Socks for Josh   Auditioning Knits Ready to cast on a pair of vanilla socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts and a pair of patterned socks with my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts. I'm thinking of casting on some Hermione's Everyday Socks or some Zigagular Socks.    Also ready to swatch and cast on for my Worsted Boxy sweater that I've had in my queue for a long time!    Will probably cast on the Bryum shawl this week as well.    Knitting News, Notes and Events News I started watching a New to Me video podcast called The Grocery Girls Knit. These ladies are sisters from Canada and they are quite charming.   Notes My mother came for a visit and I taught her how to knit and she loves it! I'm so happy!   Events   I drew a winner for the Fern Fiber contest that started February 15th. Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner!     I'll be attending the following events:   Carolina Fiber Frolic March 18-20   Carolina Fiber Fest (tentatively) March 26th (tentatively)   The Broadway KAL is up and running!  I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.   Cast on: February 15, 2016 Bind off: April 15, 2016 Wips Count!   The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours). How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you! There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work. This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread. Prizes!   1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde   1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique   2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.  2 patterns from Estella Haines' Ravelry Shop.    There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.   Knitting Talk Back  In the third part of the Carolina in my Mind series, I have an interview with Laurie Gonyea of the Feel Good Yarn Company/Silver Spun Yarn. This is an exciting product and I hope you enjoy hearing all about it!   There is a contest thread up in the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, check it out and enter to win. This contest will run from March 15th to April 10th, 2016.   Non-Knitting Segments   One Pot Wonders One Pan Mexican Quinoa Wraps   Love it or Leave it I only have one thing that works for both Love it and Leave it this episode, the Downton Abbey Series Finale.    Other News and Notes No running news, I'm on the injured list.    Books I started listening to Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. It's listed as a psychological thriller, but I haven't had a chance to get really into it yet.   I started reading the Maisie Dobbs Series and I also haven't really gotten into that. Thanks for all of the suggestions on the book thread on Ravelry.  

 SHOW NOTESThis week's WIPs include Jeck Socks, Cache Cache cowl, Indigo Frost poncho and generic cuff-down socks. FOs include Sheila's Lined Beanie. Featured Baubles and Bling are Dyeabolical Yarn self-striping sock yarn. Shout Outs:Mar/Apr KAL/CAL will be to knit with variegated yarn!  Trying digging something out from deep stash!  We will draw two winners during the first episode in May.Sheila is also hosting a Blue Moon Fiber Arts KAL/CAL that will continue throughout the year and includes any projects made from Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn.  We will draw a new winner during the first episode in April.On The Dance Card:Wendy is working on:Jeck Sock by Regina Satta in Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base, Lucky Cat colorway.Cache Cache Cowl by Kiki Kawaii in Into the Whirled Manchester sock cashmere/merino/nylon yarn, Double Rainbow colorwayIndigo Frost Poncho by Isabell Kraemer in Dream in Color Classy in the In Vino Veritas colorway with scraps for the color work.Sheila is working on:Generic Cuff-Down sock in Opal Cotton.Rate Your Date:Wendy finished:One Jack sock (finally)Sheila finished:Lined Beanie by Heather Kinne in Malabrigo sock in the Indecita colorwayWhirlwind Romance:NothingFuture Dates:Sheila needs to finish some projects and will knit more socks.Wendy plans to design a new sock when she finishes the ones on her needles.Baubles & Bling:Dyeabolical Yarns self-striping Targhee sock in the Katatomic colorway.Gossip & Innuendo:For those of you who love Stitched by Jessalu Bags, she will have a trunk show at Circle of Stitches, 66 Wharf Street, Salem MA on March 19 during the Knit North Yarn Crawl!We drew a winner of the BMFA KAL/CAL and two winners of the WIP KAL/CAL.Fiber EventsKnit North Yarn Crawl Mar 17-20, various North Shore locations, MAConnecticut Sheep and Wool Apr 30, Tolland Agricultural Center, Vernon/Rockville, CTGore Place Sheep Shearing Festival Apr 30, Gore Place, Waltham MAMaryland Sheep and Wool May 7-8, Howard County Fairgrounds, West Friendship, MDNew Hampshire Sheep and Wool May 14-15, Deerfield Fairgrounds, Deerfield, NHRhode Island Wool and Fiber Festival May 16, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, RIWebs Annual Tent Sale May 14-15, Webs, Northampton, MAMassachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair May 28-29, Cummington Fairgrounds, Cummington, MAMaine Fiber Frolic Jun 6-7, Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, MEFiber Revival TBAFinger Lakes Fiber Festival Sep 17-18, Hemlock Fairgrounds, Hemlock MESouthern Adirondack Fiber Festival Sep 24-25, Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich, NYVermont Sheep and Wool Festival Oct 1-2, Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VTNew York Sheep and Wool Oct 15-16, Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NYFiber Festival of New England Nov 5-6, Eastern States Exhibition, Springfield, MA

Works In Progress:-"Yes, I Picked Pink!" vanilla socks. US 1, Three Ewes Twisted in Fiber "Charlie in the box" colorway.-Clockwork. US 4 using Sanguine Gryphon Bugga in the Painted Damsel colorway and Wollmeise 100% SW Merino in Ahoi! We're Different.-Chickadee Cowl. US 8 using handspon fingering (Highland Handmades, White Spruce Top. Greenwood colorway. 60 SW Merino, 30 Bamboo, 10 Nylon.)D's Corner:-FO: Honey Badger, sock #1. US 2 using Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Mediumweight. Mill ends, unknown colorway.-WIP: Honey Badger, sock #2. US 2 using Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Mediumweight. Mill ends, unknown colorway.FO's:-None. Spinning:-WIP: Highland Handmades Pitch Pine Top. 75% Ecru BFL, 25% Black BFL in the Bushel colorway.-WIP: Beesybee Fibers BFL. Crossing the Canyon colorway.Upcoming/Queued:-Stripe Study Shawl KAL. The knit a long will go from Jan 1st through Feb 27th. Check out the KAL Chatter Thread.Huge "Thank You" to everyone who gifted us patterns this weekend! We really appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity.Misc/Off Topic:-2011 Knit in Review: Darren completed 20 projects (hats & socks). Aimee completed 62 projects.Enabling:Aimee's:-Into the Whirled Dec Doctor Who Club, "It's Bigger on the Inside" fiber and sock yarn.-Fibernymph Dye Works "The elves were in the eggnog" & "Froot Loops". (Both in the Bounce base.)Darren's:-String Theory Continuum base in the "Resistor" colorway.-Socks that Rock Heavyweight in the Spinel & Mossay colorways.-Simplicity in colors 028, 030 and 038.Project bags shown on today's episode:-Jessalu-Piddleloop-Three Bags FullDon't forget…..*The Podcast is now available on iTunes!Plus check out the Ravelry group! Hope you join & thanks for watching!

Kathy & Steve discuss new yarns. Kathy talks with Tina Newton of Blue Moon Fiber Arts. (Running Time 29:02)

This week's episode has been sponsored by: Inspired to knit lace? Purlescence Yarns offers a variety of gorgeous laceweight yarns including variegated silks from Blue Moon Fiber Arts and Claudia Handpainted Yarns to alpaca from Cascade and Alpaca with a Twist. You're sure to find the perfect thing to knit any lace your heart desires. We happily ship anywhere in the world. All new subscribers receive a free gift from Eucalan as our way of saying thanks for supporting Verena Knitting! Use subscription code: KNITMG This week, in lieu of our regular segments, we have an interview with Galina Khmeleva of Skaska Designs Limited. In this episode, Galina discusses knitting in communist Russia, and how she ended up as an accomplished author, instructor, and historian of the Orenburg lace tradition. Her books: Gossamer Webs: The History and Techniques of Orenburg Lace Shawls The Gossamer Webs Design Collection: Three Orenburg Shawls to Knit Her workshop schedule and calendar of events can be found here. Galina's preferred fibers for lace knitting: 1- Quiviut 2- Cashmere (longer staple) 3- Cashmere and silk. Silk helps the knitting retain it's memory. 4- Pygora