Podcasts about fibre east

Where do you lose knitting time and how can you go about carving out more time to do it? In this week's episode, I talk about the idea of cutting out mindless phone scrolling time to increase your knitting time, and the associated benefits of doing so. Also we have a news round up for the start of the month, including information about the #titsoutcollective run by Countess Ablaze (along with her new YouTube channel), the Great London Yarn Crawl from Yarn In The City, the Indie Burgh Craft Crawl in Edinburgh and Fibre East. Full show notes and links for this episode are at www.shinybees.com/115

Welcome to The Crochet Circle Podcast. Here are the Show Notes from Episode Seven - Buzz, Buzz, Buzz.     In this episode we continue with our crochet journeys, including helpful hints on sewing up; Yay Crochet or Nay Crochet; Yarn Club; Magazine Round-up; WIP's and FOs; Feeding the Habit, including Fay's trip to Fibre East; a sneaky peak at a couple of projects from our first book "Take Two" and finishing with What's Good.   This podcast is sponsored by my online crafting company, Provenance Craft Co. and Lynne Rowe Knitting and Crochet Thanks to everyone who tunes into the podcast whether it is through Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, iTunes or the YouTube Channel. Your support and engagement are really appreciated and makes running a podcast very special and worthwhile.    If you would like to support the podcast, you can do that through Patreon:   Thank you for helping us reach over 4100 audio downloads.  Thanks to all of our lovely listeners and watchers for tuning in.  As well as our audio podcast, we will also upload each audio episode to Youtube. We've now taken the plunge with Episode Seven and recorded it live for Youtube, which was exciting but a bit nerve-wracking too. So shortly you can see us as well as hear us. We also have a new backdrop, curated by Fay: You can find us here on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUpBm_Y5l_7S4Q114eKd11g   1.Yay Crochet or Nay Crochet (at 10:00 mins) It's a bit of both from Lynne: I recently went to Portugal on our family holiday and spotted quite a few crochet garments and accessories. The first thing I spotted was a gorgeous long cover-up which I  don't think was handmade, but it was lovely all the same. I also spotted a few nice crochet bags and some bright pink crocheted tops that seemed to be very popular. But the icing on the crochet cake was a crochet swimming costume – yes indeed I did spot a crocheted costume. It was quite like a bikini that was then joined down the middle. I didn’t see it in water – only on the sunbed, so not sure how it held up when wet.   It's a Yay Crochet from Fay: One of my book designs is a bag.        I finished it about a week ago and wasn’t 100% sure of the bag flap that I had designed.  So, come Monday morning I took the time to very carefully undo the flap - easier than it sounds because the yarn is a Mohair and Wensleydale mix and it took me a couple of hours.  I redesigned the flap and am now really pleased with the overall design and functionality of the bag.  It was worth taking the time out and getting the project to where I wanted it to be.   2. Our Crochet Journey: Weaving in ends when finished and when changing colour (at 20:00 mins) The easiest method is when joining double crochet row ends together as you can join the pieces by simply working double crochet (US single crochet) through the row ends of your work (working 1dc into each row end). This produces a neat, slightly stretchy finish. If you want a non-stretchy finish, use slip stitch instead.   If your work is in treble crochet (US double crochet) or half treble (US half double crochet) then it's not as straight forward because the posts of the stitches are longer, so working 1 stitch through each row end doesn't work. It's often a case of trial and error - try working 2 stitches into one row-end then just 1 stitch into the next row end, and repeat to the end. The good thing with crochet is that you can easily rip it out if there are too many or too few stitches.   Alternatively, you can use whip stitch to join trebles and half trebles, inserting your wool needle through the posts of the stitch (rather than underneath them, which can create a gap and leave the seam looking a little unsightly). Fay decided to add a row of double crochet (US single crochet) along the side of her garment, to create a much neater finish.      Granny Squares are easier to join as you already have a neat chain edge all around. You can use either double crochet (US single crochet), working through the back loops of the outside stitches (on the right side or wrong side depending on if you want a visible seam or not). You can also use a slip stitch to join Granny Squares but only use this on the wrong side of your work.    When changing colour when working, you can work over your yarn ends (like Tapestry Crochet), so hold your yarn end across the top of the stitches being worked and when you insert you hook into the stitch, wrap yarn around hook and pull back though, you will trap the yarn end into the stitch. Do this for about 6 or 7 stitches.   Links to useful websites for joining your work: Joining seams with a slip stitch and double crochet (US single crochet): http://www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/2013/01/09/beginners-class-joining-shapes-together/   Joining Granny Squares using 4 different methods: http://blog.deramores.com/how-to-crochet-joining-granny-squares/ Joining Granny Squares as you go: http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/joining-asyougo-sqaures.html     3. Magazine Reviews (at 41:00 mins) Let's Get Crafting issue 84: Theme is Christmas (is this too early?? - what do you think). There are lots of cute toys and decorations.   Lynne's favourite is the Bear from North Pole Buddies (page 40) designed by Aine Marriott.   Fay's favourite is the article "From Barn to Yarn" on pages 20 and 21. See issue 84 projects here on Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/lets-get-crafting-knitting--crochet-84/patterns   Inside Crochet issue 80: Theme is still summery. Lynne's favourite is Star in a Star Blanket, by Red Sparrow Crochet, page 77 Fay's favourite is Wayfairer's Jumper by Molla Mills See issue 80 projects here on Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/inside-crochet-issue-80-2016   Crochet Now Issue 5: Theme is 'bright'. Lynne's favourite is the free Mandala pattern booklet - The Big Mandala Swap which includes Lynne's design in Reds and Oranges, called Passion, page 42.   Crochet Now has teamed up with charity Rethink and yarn shops across the country so you can make a Mandala to swap, and maybe find a new crochet friend. Pages 80 and 81. Find out more about the Big Mandala Swap here: http://www.crochetnow.co.uk/mandala-swap/ Fay's favourite is Patchwork Garden Baby Blanket by San Beee, pages 60 and 61. Link to Crochet Now: http://www.crochetnow.co.uk/     4. FO's (at 51:50 mins) Fay: Blanket and cushion for our book.  Both were using Alafoss Lopi wool: http://alafoss.is/knitting-yarn/alafoss-lopi/ which is from the Icelandic sheep and is a chunky yarn.  I used a 5.5mm hook (US size 9). The fourth sock as part of my study in sock stripes – I have no HOs!    I have used four different techniques to try to find the best way of adding even stripes to socks and other projects knit in the round.  I have written a blog post about it so if you are also a knitter and like me have been striving to find the perfect stripe technique, take a look here: https://www.knitit-hookit-craftit.com/blogs/news/jog-free-sock-stripes-two-pairs-of-socks-from-100g-of-yarn    I was using two different John Arbon sock yarns.  The pink is Exmoor Sock Yarn in shade Blossom: https://www.jarbon.com/yarns/exmoor-sock-yarn/exmoor-sock-yarn?zenid=u4mj75qpai6ncafru3fd9blr22#.V73Q9ZgrLic  The grey is Alpaca Sock Yarn in shade Charcoal: https://www.jarbon.com/yarns-wools/alpaca/alpaca-sock-yarn/uk-alpaca-sock-yarn?zenid=u4mj75qpai6ncafru3fd9blr22#.V73RC5grLic I use 2.5mm needles and generally knit a 60 stitch sock. A pair of these lovely socks will be donated to Winwick Mum's Yarndale sock appeal: http://winwickmum.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/yarndale-sock-line-2016.html     A few episodes ago I'd been a bit eager and put this shawl in my FO list and then had to admit within the podcast that I had messed up the rows.  I left it on the naughty step for two months, then frogged it back and then inside of four nights, I had knitted the lace and done the picot edge bind-off.  I used Rowan Finest for this project in shade 067 Cool: http://www.knitrowan.com/yarns/rowan-finest   It was glorious to work with, so soft and warm.  I used 4mm (US 6)  Knit Pro Symphonies. It is made from extra-fine merino, cashmere and royal alpaca.  I didn’t know what ‘royal alpaca was so I looked it up.  Baby alpaca is between 19 and 21 microns in diameter.  Royal alpaca is anything below 19 microns and so is supposedly the finest alpaca that you can get.  Only about 1% of the alpaca produced is deemed to be royal alpaca. Human hairs range from about 17 – 181 microns depending on age, colour, weather etc. You can find out more about Royal Alpaca here: http://www.alpacacollections.com/natural-fibers     I mentioned a couple of episodes ago that I had bought The Book of Haps by Kate Davies Designs, even though I had tried my hardest not to.  I also tried to not join the KAL and failed miserably! I used Rowan Felted Tweed in five different colours and really love the outcome.  All of the details on yarn and needles can be found on my Ravelry page:  http://www.ravelry.com/projects/MaDashper/nut-hap   I have added extensive notes, so if you were thinking about doing a Nut-Hap, you may want to take a look at my Kingfisher version before you start.  Mine is huge (but still lovely)!   I would definitely use this yarn for crocheting with and am currently dreaming up a cowl design for my leftover Rowan Felted Tweed.    Lynne: The only FOs I can share are the projects for our book – I finally finished my cushion which I LOVE, especially as it uses one of my favourite yarns (Wendy Ramsdale). I love the texture that I’ve created, which works perfectly with the yarn (which almost feels a little felted). I finished a shawlette (also for the book) and lots of projects for my latest Search Press book – I did have some knitting help with a couple of the projects, which was a relief, but there was still a lot of work to do, alongside some regular commissions that I do each month, so I’ve literally been knitting or crocheting all day pretty much every day and will be doing so for the foreseeable future. This month I've made: 2 hot water bottle covers, boot toppers, crochet collar, bunting, hats, washcloths, a deep cowl, a pincushion, a dress-up doll with outfits and some stuff I can't even remember. I've worked with some gorgeous yarns, including Sublime's Evie and Superfine Alpaca DK - both are beautifully soft to work with and are firmly placed on my "favourite yarns" list: http://sublimeyarns.com/       5. WIPs (at 72:45 mins) Fay: My WIPS are five in total plus some projects that didn’t even make the WIP list. I still have some standard items like the Tardis cushion and shorelines blanket which have had NO LOVE!  I have had to work on lots of crochet projects for the book and so these two WIPs have been placed on the back burner for now.   I've made a decent amount of progress on my Wrap Over Top from Simply Crochet issue 41.  Again I am using Rowan Finest but in shade 069 Star.  It's really lovely to crochet with even though it splits occasionally. So far I have used 9 balls worth and will probably need to put 12 into it.  Luckily I got the yarn at the Black Sheep Wools sale and so got 10 balls for under £30 instead of £65!  I had to do some maths to rejig the pattern for this yarn, and now that I am on the last 6 rows (but I will probably extend it) I can see that my calculations seem to have worked, so very worthwhile doing the swatching, blocking and maths.     I may have also started two new haps from The Book of Haps… Uncia – using John Arbon’s Harvest Hue’s 4 ply in Blue Spruce https://www.jarbon.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=36_184_176&products_id=245#.V73ZDZgrLic Uncia– using John Arbon’s Devon Wensleydale 4 ply which is an undyed natural grey.  Lynne: I'm the same as last month at 14, as I haven’t had any time to work on my own WIPS. I’ve started and finished lots of projects (work related) but nothing for myself so I’m really looking forward to a yarn dying workshop next week, organised by Fay, as it will be a nice to step away from knitting and crocheting for  few hours and learn a new skill. 6. Feeding the Habit Rabbit (rabbit... rabbit... rabbit) Link to Chas and Dave song "Rabbit, Rabbit": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOSseI1hao8   Fay: Since we last recorded, I've been to Fibre East. Unsurprisingly the yarn that I got was John Arbon mini skeins and some BFL fibre tops, also from John and Juliet.  The stand across from them at Fibre East was selling spindles and so I bought one of them too because I am desperate to learn how to draft, ready for the inevitable spinning wheel. Other habit feeders were our new mascot, who remains nameless until the competition has been judged at the beginning of September.  I also bought a new shawl pin which is ceramic and made in the UK: http://an-caitin-beag.myshopify.com/    I also bought some 2 ply linen to  play with and Verity’s new sock book  –  The Sock Drawer: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/449213136/the-sock-drawer-pattern-collection?ref=shop_home_active_1  If you haven’t heard the interview with Verity from Truly Hooked yet, then take a listen - it's been one of our most popular interviews to date.     However, that was on the 31st of July and so I created a self-imposed yarn diet throughout the month of August. Today is the 25th and, so far I have not bought any yarn that will be in my hands in August (apart from signing up to a yarn club).  I have six more days of no yarn buying and can prove a point to myself.   Lynne: I haven’t bought anything either this month, as I know I don’t have any time to crochet or knit and the Woolnest is just overflowing with stuff. So rather than buy new yarn I’ve gone through my drawers and bags and sorted out all the yarn I know I won’t use and will be selling this at Yarndale and hope that it will go to a good home and that someone will make something lovely out of it all.     7. Our First Crochet Circle Book (at 101:55 mins) We're really excited to tell you a little about the book that we have been working on.  It is called "Take Two" and the premise is simple.  We've each designed four crochet patterns.  Lynne has designed a long cowl with matching mittens, a blanket and a cushion. I have designed a short cowl, a bag, a narrow shawl and a purse.   So there's something for everyone - from accessories to homewares. There are two key differences with this book. The first is that the yarns we used had to be British and in particular had to be spun in the North of England as we feel proud of our industrial heritage and that fact that we still have working mills that produce amazing yarns.    The second is that we both re-made each other’s patterns using our own stash yarn.  This has allowed us to showcase British yarns and to also show how a change in yarn weight, colour or a slight variation in the pattern can create an entirely different project.  You don’t always have to use the yarns stated in a pattern and so we hope to encourage you to look to your stash when you are crocheting from a pattern and don't be afraid to substitute yarn and make the pattern your own.   Take Two is essentially two designers, eight patterns with two interpretations, creating sixteen designs.   Lynne’s favourite pattern from the book and yarn is: I'm twixt between my textured blanket which uses West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply yarn, and my textured cushion, but I think may be cushion just takes it (and has yet to be named).     The basis of the cushion is treble crochet worked in rounds, but for the front piece the rounds are worked in back loops only, leaving the front loops free for working a picot - this creates the deep texture (resembling a Chrysanthemum Flower). You could make it in almost any yarn, from 4-ply to chunky so it’s really versatile and looks like a shop-bought cushion. The size I made with DK yarn took just 6 balls of 50g. I used Wendy Ramsdale which is bred, spun and dyed in Yorkshire and is a sturdy yarn, which is great for a cushion, but it’s definitely a design that you could use up different yarns from your stash. Yarn support was kindly provided by Laughing Hens: https://www.laughinghens.com/ Fay's favourite design is Colosseum.  It is a narrow shawl that uses just one skein of 4 ply yarn.  The pattern is really simple and memorable, yet elegant and light.  I really love all of the yarns that I used for my patterns – Erika Knight and Whistlebare.  The yarns were specifically chosen to be soft or lustrous where they needed to be or hard-wearing where required – like the bag.              8.Yarn Clubs (at 115:20 mins)   We mentioned in Episode 6 that we wanted to do a review on yarn clubs.  We know that a few people that have signed up to them but neither Lynne nor I ever have.  So, in the interests of fair reporting and for you lovely Crochet Circler’s, Fay has selflessly signed up to a yarn club with Life in the Long Grass - a husband and wife team based in Ireland: https://www.lifeinthelonggrass.com/clubs/   Fay will open her parcel when we record the next podcast so we'll capture her excitement.  Lynne will look into other clubs, including Baa Baa Brighouse Yan Tan Tethera's club: https://www.baabaabrighouse.co.uk/shop/yan-tan-tethera-yarn-club/yan-tan-tethera-subscription/   So, in the next episode, we will be able to report back with a list of available yarn clubs, the cost of Fay's LITLG club and reaction to it, people’s feedback on yarn clubs that they have been part of. So, if there is anything that you would like to know about yarn clubs, please let us know through Ravelry – we will start a thread called ‘Things to know about yarn clubs’ and we will endeavour to answer your questions.     9. What’s Good (at 123:15 mins) Fay: I'm organising a workshop under the banner of KNIT IT – HOOK IT – CRAFT IT on hand-dyed yarns on the 3rd September and 10 of us will get to try out three different yarn dyeing methods – kettle, hand painted and dip-dyed.  I'm really looking forward to spending a day learning to dye with some lovely people.  It will be a welcome break from all of the work that I have been doing.    Lynne: I received advanced copies of my Mandala Book earlier this week, which was really exciting. I’m delighted at how lovely it looks. It’s one of the "20 to Make" titles by Search Press, and the idea is that the projects are quick to make, yet all different and interesting too. Hoping to have them for sale at Yarndale but not sure if they will arrive in time – fingers crossed: https://www.searchpress.com/book/9781782214342/crocheted-mandalas    Happy listening and crocheting.   Lynne and Fay x   Instagram: Crochet_Circle_Podcast  Instagram: provenance.craft.co   Instagram: FayDHDesigns YouTube: The Crochet Circle Podcast Crochet Clan on Mighty Network: Invite                          

As always, show notes can be found at www.stitchedtogether.co.uk. Come and join the conversation on the Stitched Together Podcast & Patterns Ravelry Group board. Stuff and ThingsSelf Indulgent Craft-A-Long (#STSICAL2015) started on Christmas Day and ran to February 29th 2016.  All prizes were drawn randomly from the FO Thread.  I apologise profusely for delays in drawing the prizes.Prizes were all kindly donated and are:A project bag from Knit and Stitch Bits..The Wool Barn Alpaca Sock (grey) in the Denim colourway. The is a sock/4ply weight yarn, comprised of 70% Natural Light Grey Baby Alpaca/20% Silk/10% Cashmere and it weighs 100g and has 400m/436yds.From a generous viewer, who wishes to remain anonymous, The Uncommon Thread, Silky Merino Fingering in the Pern colourway. The yarn is a sock/4ply weight yarn and is comprised of 75% Superwash Merino/25% Mulberry Silk, it weighs 100g and measures 400m.Prize Winners are:Project Bag Prize:Modelwidow, Jane from Kent UK.The Wool Barn yarn prize:CeeGeeKnits,  CG, from "The South", USA.The Uncommon Thread prize.hazysummers, Hazel from Ghana.Again, many apologies for the delays in drawing for this CAL. This WON'T happen again!Done and DustedNew shawl pattern (as yet un-named) knit from Countess Ablaze Lady Persephone 4ply in the Eccentric Geeks colourway.Second version of the new shawl pattern has been started using The Wool Barn Alpaca Sock (grey) in the Denim colourway. The is a sock/4ply weight yarn, comprised of 70% Natural Light Grey Baby Alpaca/20% Silk/10% Cashmere and it weighs 100g and has 400m/436yds.Knitting Goddess Socks, my usual vanilla pattern using The Knitting Goddess 4ply merino nylon that I got at Fibre East 2014.Spindrift Shetland fibre by Jamieson & Smith from Barber Blacksheep and Shetland from The WoolBothy was spun up and knit into a shawl.Gretchen Windward - Windward by Heidi Kirrmaier in Posh Yarn Gretchen Heavy Lace in the Even He Doesn't Know How He Does It colourway.Bad Nut - Bad Nut by Josh Ryks in handspun merino dyed by Countess Ablaze.Soundwave - Soundwave by Meghan Jackson knit in Fondant Fibre Hardy High Twist in the Gunpowder and Shield Maiden Wannabe colourway.Ingot - Ingot by Lisa Mutch using handspun Spun Right Round Targhee in #144 Colorplay colurway.Knit Night - Knit Night by Louise Zass-Bangham in BabyLongLegs BFL/Nylon in Lalique.Bella Vista - Bella Vista by Anthony Casalena in handspun Rambouillet dyed by Hello Yarn in the Anne colourway.Nose to the GrindstoneSandbank - Sandbank by Lea Viktoria using Wollmeise Lace-Garn in the WD Graue Eminez colourway.Groovy - Groovy (Lace or Fingering Weight) by JumperCables using The Yarn Yard Pentland 800 in the Toffee colourway.Shine - Shine by Janina Kallio in Countess Ablaze Lady Persephone Sock in Girl At The Rock ShowCountess Ablaze BFL/Masham in Bad Girls ClubPlottingSpinning up Shetland fibre from Woolbothy and then knitting it into a sweater. I need to sample. Thinking of doing a Spin-A-Long again.Splashed OutFondant Fibre Timothy Rolags and Rambouillet in Secret Garden and AlpineWollmeise Lace-Garn in Feldmauschen and Pure Xaverl und RosiEden Cottage Yarns Pendle 4ply in Algae and Dark OakOnline CommunityA very kind anonymous donor has topped up the prize cupboard in stupendous style. I need to think of some more KALs!Thank you for everyone's well wishes and words of support during my hiatus. It means the world to me to be part of such a wonderful community.

This podcast is sponsored by my online crafting company, Provenance Craft Co. and Lynne Rowe Knitting and Crochet Thanks to everyone who tunes into the podcast whether it is through Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, iTunes or the YouTube Channel. Your support and engagement are really appreciated and makes running a podcast very special and worthwhile.    If you would like to support the podcast, you can do that through Patreon:   Featuring an interview with indie hand dyer Verity Castledine who runs Truly Hooked from her home in Nottingham. Hear all about the various processes of hand-dying, what inspires Verity and how she works with her husband Meyrick to run their successful family business (they even rope the children in too).       Verity hanging her latest skeins out to dry.      Some of the skeins that we discussed during the interview. In addition to hand-dying, Verity is also a designer and has just published her first knitting book, 'The Sock Drawer'. To find out more about Verity, visit her at the following Truly Hooked website: http://www.trulyhooked.com/ Truly Hooked on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trulyhooked Truly Hooked on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/trulyhooked/ Truly Hooked on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trulyhooked/ Truly Hooked on Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/designers/verity-castledine   You can also find her at the YarnMama indie dyer cooperative over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YarnMamas/photos/a.1429446873982237.1073741826.1429197850673806/1633776026882653/?type=3&theater   The two mini skeins from the first skeins that  Verity ever dyed and some of her latest work. You can squish some Truly Hooked yarn at the following events in 2016: Fibre East, Ampthill, Bedford - 30th/31st July:  http://www.fibre-east.co.uk/ British Wool Show, York - 5th/6th August: http://britishwool.net/  Popup Wool Show, Port Sunlight, Wirral - 20th August: http://popupwoolshow.co.uk/  Yarndale, Skipton, Yorkshire - 24th/25th September: http://yarndale.co.uk/ Knitting and Stitching Show, Alexandra Palace, London - 5th to 9th October: http://www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com/london/     One of Verity's crochet designs in three of her very different yarns. We hope you enjoyed the interview and thanks for listening to The Crochet Circle Podcast. Don't forget to tune in on the first Friday of every month for our regular episodes. Lynne has also been beavering away, uploading the episodes to YouTube, so you can catch us there too!     Happy listening and crocheting.   Lynne and Fay x   Instagram: Crochet_Circle_Podcast  Instagram: provenance.craft.co   Instagram: FayDHDesigns YouTube: The Crochet Circle Podcast Crochet Clan on Mighty Network: Invite

As always, show notes can be found at www.stitchedtogether.co.uk. Come and join the conversation on the Stitched Together Podcast & Patterns Ravelry Group board.Stuff and ThingsI went to my first meeting of the Leicestershire Weavers, Spinners and Dyers Guild. This is part of the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers.Self Indulgent Craft-A-Long (#STSICAL2015) started on Christmas Day and runs to February 29th 2016. Enter a photo of your FO in the thread before it is locked. One entry per person. You must be a member of the group.  Chat is very welcome over in the group.Full details of prizes are given in the show notes for Episode 28.Done and DustedNew shawl pattern (as yet un-named) knit from Countess Ablaze Lady Persephone 4ply in the Eccentric Geeks colourway.Heavenly Wools New Zealand Halfbred Wool Roving in the Dragon's Breath Over Natural Grey.It was spun as a semi-worsted 3ply and I got 285m in total, and  I have 191g of this worsted weight yarn.Knitty and Color Superwash Targhee in the Early Fall colourway. I spun it as a worsted style 2-ply and got 375m of a heavy sock/4ply weight yarn. The skein weighs 110g.Nose to the GrindstoneKnitting Goddess Socks, my usual vanilla pattern using The Knitting Goddess 4ply merino nylon that I got at Fibre East 2014. It's moving slowly.The Doodler by Stephen West was the 2015 MKAL. I am using Countess Ablaze Lady Persephone Sock in the Persia colourway, Eden Cottage Yarns Pendle in Steel and The Yarn Yard Clan in Waverley.Second version of the new shawl pattern has been started using The Wool Barn Alpaca Sock (grey) in the Denim colourway. The is a sock/4ply weight yarn, comprised of 70% Natural Light Grey Baby Alpaca/20% Silk/10% Cashmere and it weighs 100g and has 400m/436yds. This is the same yarn as is being given away as a prize for the Self-Indulgent KAL.Fondant Fibre Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Campfire colourway. I've spun the singles and made a plying ball to even out the tension for a 3-ply and I'm hoping to make socks from it.Spindrift Shetland fibre by Jamieson & Smith from Barber Blacksheep and Shetland from The WoolBothy and Sara's Texture Crafts.PlottingI want to write up the pattern for the large Refraction Shawl I showed in the last episode and plan to use 2 skeins of Posh Yarn Gretchen Sock in the Titania's Couch colourway. This yarn is 50% merino/50% silk.I also need to make a gift for my nephew!Splashed OutCountess Ablaze Viscount of Spark in the Urbex colourway. 75% merino/20% nylon/5% stellina sock weight yarn, weighing 100g and measuring 400m.Scrumptiouspurl Stripe Me Up in the Tuxedo Junction colourway created for The Golden Skein's Power of Three club, Winter 2015. The yarn is 80% superwash merino/20% nylon and measures 365m from 100g.Northbound Knitting Grey Merino Combed Top in the Warm Spell colourway (4oz).Knitty and Color Superwash Targhee in the Trance colourway (4oz)Online CommunityA very kind anonymous donor has topped up the prize cupboard in stupendous style. I need to think of some more KALs!

As always, show notes can be found at www.stitchedtogether.co.uk. Come and join the conversation on the Stitched Together Podcast & Patterns Ravelry Group board.Stuff and ThingsSelf Indulgent Craft-A-Long (#STSICAL2015) started on Christmas Day and runs to February 29th 2016. The thread will be locked when I get up and get online on 1st March. The CAL is for anything new and exciting that makes your heart sing after all the responsibilities and hard work of the run up to the end of the year, so it shouldn't be a WIP.Prizes were all kindly donated and are:A project bag from Knit and Stitch Bits..The Wool Barn Alpaca Sock (grey) in the Denim colourway. The is a sock/4ply weight yarn, comprised of 70% Natural Light Grey Baby Alpaca/20% Silk/10% Cashmere and it weighs 100g and has 400m/436yds.From a generous viewer, who wishes to remain anonymous, The Uncommon Thread, Silky Merino Fingering in the Pern colourway. The yarn is a sock/4ply weight yarn and is comprised of 75% Superwash Merino/25% Mulberry Silk, it weighs 100g and measures 400m.Enter a photo of your FO in the thread before it is locked. One entry per person. You must be a member of the group.Chat is very welcome over in the group.Done and DustedMy project for the #STSICAL was knit using 40% Alpaca/40% Merino/20% Silk from John Arbon that I spun as a worsted 2ply to get a heavy sock/4ply weight yarn. I got 740m from 216g. I made Eyeblink by Heidi Alander. Decided to unpick the bind off and the last wrong side row. I then knit 8 rows and then did a beaded bind off using the technique in this video, by YarnFairy. I like how this technique means there are no holes under the picots.  I used Toho Metallic Iris Purple size 6/0 beads from JillyBeads.Eclipse by Lara Smoot using Yeomans Yarn Sport in the Birch colourway and The Yarn Yard Clan in pink.Refraction Shawlette Plus in DyeForYarn Sock BFL Superwash in the Wooden Treasure Chest colourway. The centre panel is made using some of the charts from Refraction Shawlette, with a different final chart.Regia Snowflake Color Socks in the 07709 colourway.Superwash Merino fibre, from World of Wool, that I dyed using Wilton's Food Dyes, I spun it as a worsted 2-ply and the resulting yarn was 282m/308yds of sport weight yarn.KraftyKoala merino silk fibre, was spun as a worsted chain-ply yarn. It measures 124m/136yds of a worsted weight yarn. Fibre was bought in a de-stash and I don't think she is dyeing anymore.A LOT of blocked squares for my Sock Yarn Blanket, which is based loosely on Shannon Geddes' Sock Yarn Square.Nose to the GrindstoneKnitting Goddess Socks, my usual vanilla pattern using The Knitting Goddess 4ply merino nylon that I got at Fibre East 2014. I don't think she uses this base anymore.The Doodler by Stephen West was the 2015 MKAL. I am using Countess Ablaze Lady Persephone Sock in the Persia colourway, Eden Cottage Yarns Pendle in Steel and The Yarn Yard Clan in Waverley. I referred to a great set of tutorials by jkimisyellow, which were really helpful.I've been prepping some Heavenly Wools New Zealand Halfbred Wool Roving in the Dragon's Breath Over Natural Grey. I have 200g and want to spin it as a true 3-ply. It's mainly a merino breed with 24.5 micron count.Splashed OutMy first Fat Squirrel Bag (I think it's a Small Wedge).20g Mini Skeins from Sara's Texture CraftSome bargains from EasyKnits; Lush in Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Smoke in Dabloon (150g skein) and Twinkle DK in Berry.Unwind Yarn Company Journey Sock (150g skein) in Jimmy Angelov.Fondant Fibre Winter Wonderland Rolags.Online CommunityKatya Frankel is holding an Anything Goes KAL from 20th February to 20th March over in her Ravelry Group, and is offering a 20% discount on all of her self-published designs from 8-29 February with the code anythinggoeskal.I really like her new shawl pattern Sidereal but I might join in with the Vector pattern from Flatland.

Show notes can always be found on www.stitchedtogether.co.uk by clicking on the Podcast button at the top of the page. Stuff and ThingsPrizes for the Crafting With Colour KAL are:Donated and dyed by HappyDebs, a member of our group, MCN Sock Weight Yarn in the Spring Garden colourway, 350m/383yds of 80% merino/10% cashmere/10% sock.Kindly donated by another viewer is Sundara Sock Yarn in the Shadow Studies colourway. It's 100% superwash merino and 338m/370yds.Alessandra, aka PokedaGoblin donated this yarn specifically for this KAL. Two skeins of Regia 4-Fadig Color (a self striping yarn) in colouway 05048. Each skein measures 210m/230yds and weighs 50g. The yarn is made of 75% wool/25% polyamide.Finished Objects should be posted in this FO Thread (please no chat there). Please also read all the rules carefully before posting to make sure your project fits the rules.If you want to chat about the KAL, please come and join the friendly thread here.The KAL finishes on 31st August 2015.Done and DustedMake It Work by Allie Coffey of Caffeinated Knitting Podcast. I used yarn spun from Fondant Fibre Organic Merino in the Inked colourway.Knitty and Color Merino Silk in the Sleepy Hollow colourway. It's 80% merino and 20% silk. I spun it worsted with a 2ply constructions and 261m of a light DK weight, weighing 110g.Sara's Texture Crafts Merino in the Raspberry Chocolate colourway. I spun it worsted with a 4ply construction. I got 160m aran weight and it weighs 179g.Northbound Knitting Polwarth in the Flying Kites colourway. I spun it worsted with a 2ply construction aiming to get a barber pole effect. I got 178m of a worsted weight yarn weighing 105g.Textured Shawl by Stephanie Bold in The Knitting Goddess Laceweight 70% Baby Alpaca/20% Silk/10% Cashmere in the Greens colourway. This was knit for my friend Rachael who bought the yarn when she took me to Fibre East 2014.Nose to the GrindstoneToddler Blanket using Rico Designs Baby Classic DK in the Powder (038), Mauve (041), Dusky Pink (40), Anthracite (32) and Purple (16) colourways. Done using Treble(UK)/Double Crochet(US).Felici Socks using Knit Picks Felici in the Afternoon colourway. My vanilla sock pattern with a Fish Lips Kiss Heel. I mention the Poke Me Not from Jan B Smiley and Emily of the Fibre Town Podcast.The Joker and The Thief by Melanie Berg. I'm using Wollmeise Pure in a WD version of Ein Klein Wenig Verrucht and couple of sets of mini skeins from Frankenskein Yarns in the Sour Heart colourway. I mention my HiyaHiya Kitty Snips. I got mine from Meadow Yarns.Skein Polwarth Silk in the Thyme colourway is being plied.Countess Ablaze blend in the Extravagance and Cruelty colourway. 62% merino/12% alpaca/12% angelina/12% Seacell. It's stored in a basket from Julzcrafts. This is my Tour de Fleece 2015 spin. I'm in Team Caffeinated 2015, which is a very laid back group. I have also opened a thread in the Stitched Together Ravelry group for people who are sort of spinning along with the TdF but don't want any commitment. There aren't any prizes, just friendly support.Fondant Fibre Oatmeal BFL in the Luckenbooth colourway.PlottingKnitting some socks from Sock Architecture by Lara Neel.Splashed OutSpanish Peacock Cocobolo Russian SpindlePigeon Roof Studies Superwash Targhee in the Magical colourwayOn The Round Superwash Targhee/Silk in the Silver Lining Tweed colourway.Countess Ablaze Viscount of Spark in the Nerds Prefer Their Rainbows Darker.Countess Ablaze Dr Donegal in a OOAK colourwayMarigoldJen Merino/Silk Single (4ply) in the Serene colourway.Online CommunityThank you for all the well wishes during my surgery and support in the aftermath!

Hello from Bedlam…. In this episode, I probably repeat myself about some Works in Progress, smile at some crocheted critters and explain what’s happening in my world... Works in Progress Here’s the second pair of Saartje’s Booties… I’ve worked on some ideas from the Amy Singer workshop and I’ve worked a bit on a Hannah Fettig Sock Sweater in Hazel Knits Artisan Sock in Chocolatier for another baby in the family. I’ve also been working on the Woolly Wormhead Mystery Hat Knit-A-Long in Fyberspates Vivacious DK. Yum! I’ve not knit for a week or so because I’ve been spinning samples from Fiberholics UK into a random bobbin of singles. Suppliers include Lime Green Jelly, Knitter Scarlet, Porpoise Fur and Manda Crafts. I’m currently spinning the second bobbin ready to ply with the first. Last week I went to Manchester and made this: Impressive, huh? Well maybe not, but here are some really great pieces: Madness Part 1 I’ve been dyeing to show you these (groan!) Breaking News: I now have an Etsy Shop! It can be found at https://www.etsy.com/shop/YarnsFromThePlain Madness Part 2: Aimee from Knit.Spin.Cake and I are hosting a knitting and spinning retreat! Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd February 2014 in Chester. Rooms are £140; however if you would be prepared to share then this price is reduced as the house is a fixed rate. This price covers accommodation for the three nights, food on Thursday night and breakfasts. Remaining meals and the itinerary will be agreed by the attendees later. If you are interested, please PM me on Ravelry (I’m talesfromtheplain) or drop me an email at yarnsfromtheplainATgooglemailDOTcom. OMG! Upcoming Events Janefrogged on Ravelry has sent up the knitsignal, asking for contributions towards the yarnstorming of Ampthill linked to Fibre East next year. To help out, please contact her on Ravelry or by email at jckclayATgmail.com. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain. TTFN, Nic x

Hello everyone. Where did September go? Yarndale I didn't record any audio at Yarndale, as it was all a bit overwhelming to be honest. I really shouldn't go to shows when I'm a bit tired and wired, as I buy way more stuff than I need or can process into anything else! It was lovely to meet up with fellow podcasters Jo from Shinybees and Aimee from Knit.Spin.Cake. For a full sharing of my goodies, please listen to Episode 12 of the Shinybees podcast. Finished Objects   In the near two months since I recorded last, I have finished just one sock, a test knit. Pathetic! On the Needles and Hooks During the second week of the holiday I cast on a pair of socks using the sock stripe yarn from The Knitting Goddess that I picked up at Fibre East. These are currently stalled not far from the cuff and susequently mislaid (eek!).   When I got back from holiday I decided to join in the Mystery Sock-A-Long on the APlayfulDay podcast group, but haven't got far on those because I can't seem to pick up the lace pattern easily (limited details here). These are in the same project bag as the stripey socks, ergo they too are missing. Then at the end of August I cast on a Chevron Pullover in Noro Kureyon as part of the Stitched Together podcast's Craft-Library-a-long. Completed the sleeves within a fortnight but have now slowed down due to limited bandwidth. On the coach back form Yarndale last week I started crocheting an Iris scarf in NDS Dazzle HT as part of a kit I bought but this photo was taken once it crashed to a halt over the pale greeny-blue top left. This has now been removed! Last night I also picked up the Dorothy in Sublime merino DK that I bought with my prize winnings form Thame Show. Crafting ADHD? Moi? Something I Really Like Parkrun! Upcoming Events Knitting and Stitching Show, 10-13th October 2013, Alexandra Palace; Crafts From The Dungeon Open Days, Frodsham, 16th & 17th October 2013 Cheshire Guild Friendship Day, Frodsham Community Centre, 19th October 2013 Bakewell Wool Gathering, 19-20th October 2013, Bakewell; Knitting and Stitching Show, 21-24th November 2013, Harrogate. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Knit.Spin.Cake

Finished Objects There is progress sin my preparation for the Oxfordshire County & Thame Show. I've so far completed three more projects for classes: a pair of oven mitts from recycled clothing (no pictures yet), my Northman stranded mittens and a pair of baby bootees from a Sirdar Snuggly 3ply pattern (Ravelry details here). I've also finished knitting the I-cord on the stripy Noro messenger bag and fulled it in the washing machine. Now it needs to be lined. In The Weaving Shed I've been working on the 32" Rigid Heddle loom, making a houndstooth pattern. The brown is chocolate Jacob, the white is a blend of British wool, both from Wool City Wools available from Texere. This will become a cushion. Further Show Prep A Clothkits rag doll has been sewn, although she has no dress yet. One and half cards have been made. A half finished beaded necklace has been fished out of the WIPs bin and it is moving apace, as is a long stitch embroidery of a nuclear power and reprocessing plant. No, seriously. What do you mean you haven't got one? Still no pictures I'm afraid! Here's some Merino Silk blend I've spun on the Joy, which is now being knitted into the Peacock Shawlette by Kitman Figueroa. Something I Really Like Cancer Research's Race For Life 5k races. I'm running at Tatton Park on Sunday 30th June in memory of my Uncle Jeff. If you could spare a few coppers and would like to sponsor me for the event, my just giving page is here.  Thank you. Links Upcoming Events Woolfest, 28-29 June 2013, Cockermouth, Cumbria; The Wool Experience, 6 July 2013, Blaze Farm, Wildboarclough; Fibre East, 27-28 July 2013, Ampthill, Bedford; Yarndale, 28-29th September 2013, Skipton. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from a delayed episode recorded in May. Reports and a family bereavement conspired to throw me into a flat spin and I didn't edit this for ages. Apologies for the delay. It'll probably be like buses - there'll be another episode along in a few minutes... ;) On and Off The Needles I have cast on another Adrift, this time in some 4 ply from John Arbon Textiles. It's gone well, but it currently languishing as I slooooooowly unpick the cast on. Ravelry details here. The Tomten Jacket (Ravelry details here) STILL hasn't had the zip sewn in (I'm such a chicken!). I crocheted these Easy Victorian Shell Mitts by Bron Green in DT Crafts 100% BFL Aran in an afternoon. Gotta love crochet! Show Prep Yes indeedy! I'm gearing up to enter several classes in the Oxfordshire County & Thame Show. If you are in the area on Saturday 13th July, do go. It's a great day out. I'm bringing a pair of stranded mittens and the stripy Noro messenger bag out of the WIP bin for some of the classes, as well as working on a number of other projects that are not yet photographed or completed. More details later! In A Spin Here's some Merino Silk blend I've spun on the Joy, which may well become a shawl or scarf for the show. I don't think it's 54 wpi here though! Something I Really Like The Great British Sewing Bee Links Clothkits Coldharbour Mill Bohemian Rhapsody Wrap Upcoming Events Woolfest, 28-29 June 2013, Cockermouth, Cumbria; Fibre East, 27-28 July 2013, Ampthill, Bedford; Yarndale, 28-29th September 2013, Skipton. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from an almost Springlike Cheshire Plain, specifically the carpark in the Blakemere Craft Village! In this episode I waffle on about the weather (again!), review something I've never reviewed before and just shake my head in despair at my knitterly ADHD. What's On The Needles? Zipping along on the Tomten:   I've also swatched for a seamless yoke sweater by Elizabeth Zimmermann (I blame A Playful Day ;) !), using some of the Sheepfold blues and purples and cream left over from my Woolsack cushions. This is one idea for some colourwork....    ...and this is the first part of the hem, with the picot row worked. Review Inspector Norse by Lipservice Theatre Something I Really Like The Killing Upcoming Events Wingham Woolwork Fibre Sampling Workshop, 6th April 2013, Frodsham Community Centre; Wonderwool Wales, 27-28 April 2013, Builth Wells, Powys; Woolfest, 28-29 June 2013, Cockermouth, Cumbria; Fibre East, 27-28 July 2013, Ampthill, Bedford; Yarndale, 28-29th September 2013, Skipton. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from a distinctly un-Springlike Cheshire Plain... brrr! On The Needles I've completed the waist decreases on Adrift, but I've decided to lengthen it and add some complimentary increases. Ravelry details of my project are here. I've also knit and crocheted some bunting triangles for the Guild's bunting, using the Sheepfold Clotted Cream I dyed a year ago.   Yesterday I cast on a Tomten by Elizabeth Zimmerman for a new arrival in the family.   Oh the Joy! No progress pictures, but I have spun some more purple BFL on the Traddy and more green merino/silk blend on the Joy. The Traddy's had a good scrub down and wax too. Holiday Souvenir Competition We have a winner! Listen to find out who won one of these yarns from La Droguerie. Something I Really Like The National Gallery. Here's Whistlejacket, Mr & Mrs Andrews and Seurat's Bathers at Asnières. Upcoming Events Wingham Woolwork Fibre Sampling Workshop, 6th April 2013, Frodsham Community Centre; Wonderwool Wales, 27-28 April 2013, Builth Wells, Powys; Woolfest, 28-29 June 2013, Cockermouth, Cumbria; Fibre East, 27-28 July 2013, Ampthill, Bedford; Yarndale, 28-29th September 2013, Skipton. Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from the M6, via a very long delay... sorry! In this episode I celebrate our mini KAL, talk about a new toy and swoon a little over Mr Thornton. On The Needles A few more rows on Adrift by Carol Feller at Stolen Stitches. Ravelry details of my project are here. I've also worked some more rows on the Mini-Mania Scarf by Sarah Core. Ravelry details of my project are here. This is a free pattern, so join me in a knit-a-long. Oh the Joy! We have become a two-wheel family, with the acquisition of a lightly used Ashford Joy. Bliss! Holiday Souvenir Competition Don't forget, to be in ith a chance of winning one of these yarns from La Droguerie, leave a comment or message me before the end of February. Something I Really Like Netflix Upcoming Events Unravel, 23-24 February 2013, The Maltings, Farnham, Surrey; Wonderwool Wales, 27-28 April 2013, Builth Wells, Powys; Woolfest, 28-29 June 2013, Cockermouth, Cumbria; Fibre East, 27-28 July 2013, Ampthill, Bedford Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from a crisp Cheshire Plain! In this episode I admit to a thick head, update you on some works in progress and share some New Year's Resolutions. Future Knits Owls by Kate Davies Portulaca by Carol Feller On The Needles Adrift by Carol Feller at Stolen Stitches. Ravelry details of my project are here. Mini-Mania Scarf by Sarah Core. Ravelry details of my project are here.   This is a free pattern, so join me in a knit-a-long. In The Weaving Shed I whipped up another Mobius cowl in a Saori style. Ravelry details of my project are here.     Details of how to make a Mobius Cowl can be found in this Ravelry forum page where there is a link to this Picasa Web Album. There are notes on each photo to explain what to do. Something I Really Like Craftsy Upcoming Events Creative Stitches & Hobbycrafts Show at Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, London and Exeter at various points through the year, starting woith Manchester 7-9 February 2013; Wonderwool Wales, 27-28 April 2012, Builth Wells, Powys; Woolfest, 28-29 Junes, Cockermouth, Cumbria; Fibre East, 27-28 July, Ampthill, Bedford Links New Lanark Mills; Natural Dye Studio Murder on the Moor Club Music Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Make Contact! We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 5 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Please feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic x

Hello from the Plain, where we're being bombarded with April showers! This is a short episode to sum up after the Woolsack stuffing event. I'd love to show you pictures, but Blogger AND Podbean are both playing up. You'll just have to go look on the Cheshire Guild WSD group thread instead. ;) Upcoming Events: Wonderwool Wales is at the Royal Welsh Showground, Built Wells, Powys, Sat 28th and Sun 29th April. Fibre East is at Scald End Farm, Mill Lane, Thurleigh, Bedford, MK44 2DP, Sat 14th and Sun 15th July 2012 Links Woolsack Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. We have a listeners' map. Please go on over to pop in a pin - we're covering 4 continents now but I'd still love to see where you all are! Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.blogspot.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!). TTFN, Nic