Signature Needle Arts

You can hear us talk about Knitting Needles by Signature Needle Arts in episode 26, but if you would like to read our review rather than listen, I will post our comments here.

We speak specifically about a set of US1(2.25mm) double point needles, and sizes US1(2.25mm) and US6(4.0mm) circulars.

Upon opening the package, the first thing that strikes you is that the needles are beautiful to look at. Upon initial inspection, they appear to be a well-crafted, quality product. The dpns were shipped in a little gift bag. The US1(2.25mm) double point needles felt slightly flexible to Sharlene, similar in the way that bamboo double point needles are slightly flexible. The needles feel cold to the touch.

Knitting with the double points feels very slippery. We both experienced needles slipping out of our stitches. The tips are very sharp. I think the set we have has the stiletto points. There are instructions included for shipping the needles which warn how to keep tips sharp, so some caution may be needed to store them properly. The slip and the sharp tips may benefit different types of knitting or knitters. For example: fast knitters will probably like the slippery feel and the stiletto tips may be a benefit for lace knitting. Overall we both agree that the metal feels different from other metal needles we have used. The Signature Needles feel silky and possess a matte finish compared to other metal needles.

Gayle LOVES the circulars, especially the smooth needle tips. Again, I think the needles we are testing are the pointier stiletto tips. The cables are very flexible which Gayle also loves. She has experienced other needle brands becoming kinked when stored, and these cables haven't kinked. Sharlene is most impressed with how smooth the joins are at the needle to cable transition area. This cable also feels secure, and she isn't worried about the cable breaking, or pulling loose from the needle, which has been a recurring problem for her with other needle brands. Gayle didn't have to stop to readjust her fabric or twist the needles inside the stitches because of the fluidity of the cable.

Different size needles are manufactured in different colors. You can easily visually identify your needles if you know the color of each size.

Prices vary depending on size, tip, and cable length or needle style. Customers can purchase single needles in case of loss. We both agree that these needles are in the high-end range of knitting needle pricing. How to justify the cost? Whether or not the needle is worth it to an individual knitter is obviously a personal decision. It may be difficult to invest in a pair sight unseen. Perhaps invest in the size of needle that you use most often. We both think if you have a chance to try out these needles it is definitely worth a test drive.

Our thanks to Signature Needle Arts for spreading the Signature Needle love and enabling us to share your wonderful product with our listeners.

Episode 26 - The Last Ep for 2012!

What are we wearing?
Cityscape by Laura Chau
Aidez by Cirilia Rose
Gayle's Stripey Scarf

What are we stalking?
Imperial Yarn Pencil Roving
Cora by Andrea Black

What are we knitting?
Pull Me Over by Andrea Black
Poppy hat by Justine Turner
Aurora Australis by Melinda Vermeer
Miette by Andi Sutterland

What have we finished?
Easy Peasy Newborn Sock Hat by Keri McKiernan
Malabrigo Sock yarn
The Traveling Sweater by A. Karen Alfke
Gayle's Stripey Scarf

Product Review
Signature Needle Arts needles
Thanks to Signature Needle Arts for providing needles for us to test drive!

Favorite Projects of 2012
Gayle's Emilien sweater
Madelinetosh DK Twist
Sharlene's Owls sweater
Gayle's Laar sweater
Sharlene's Fuse sweater
Gayle's Jenica Hoodie sweater

The Self-Indulgent KAL thread

Thank-you SO much to all our listeners who have made our rookie year of podcasting such a joy and a pleasure. We wish you Happy Holidays and all the best for 2013!

Episode 25

What are we wearing?
Cassis by Thea Colman
Sharlene's Cassis
Cowl Neck Vest by Cecily Glowick MacDonald
Gayle's Cowl Neck Vest
Madelinetosh Erin Heritage Wool
Imperial Yarn Erin

What are we stalking?
Trefoil Cardigan by Gudrun Johnston
Chickadee by Ysolda Teague
Eyelet Yoke Sweater by Courtney Spainhower
Samovar by Laura Chau
Aurora Australis by Melinda VerMeer

What are we knitting?
Pull Me Over by Andrea Black
The Traveling Sweater by A. Karen Alfke
Miette by Andi Satterlund
Gayle's Stripey Scarf

What have we finished?
Sharlene's Felted pot holders 
Sharlene's Sea Anemone kitchen scrubbie
Sharlene's Gift Beanie
Gayle's Hermione Hearts Ron
Gayle's Tulipe hat
Gayle's Lingon hat
Gayle's Garter Stitch Mitts
Gayle's Swap Mitts
Gayle's Daphne and Delilah
Gayle's Commuter Mitts

Our knitting "oops" - Project "ughs" and projects we've made but don't wear
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Ribbon Shells
Gayle's Amande vest
Sharlene's Wrap Front Pullover
Gayle's Aynia shrug

Towards the end, the (gasoline) gardeners arrive next door and you can hear their loud equipment in the background. Once that happens, we wrap it up pretty quick!

Episode 24

In which we talk about holiday gifting, and how the upcoming holidays affect our project choices, and knitting lessons we have learned this year.

What are we wearing?
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Dragonflies
Discontinued Merino Stretch yarn
Warriston by Kate Davies
Gayle's Warriston

What are we stalking?
Women's Hand/Wrist Warmers by Joelle Hoverson
Garter Stitch Mitts by Ysolda Teague
Pull Me Over by Andrea Black
Burrard by Glenna C
Lemongrass by Joji Locatelli
February Fitted Pullover by Amy Herzog

What are we knitting? 
Gayle's Stripey Scarf
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli 
Wooly Wormhead Mystery KAL pattern

What have we finished?
Sharlene's first Snowball Hat
Sharlene's second Snowball Hat
Garter Stitch Mitts 1, 2, 3, and 4
For Good Hat by Megan Williams

2012 Knitting Lessons learned projects
Kauni Wool 8/2 Effektgarn
Sharlene's failed Boneyard Shawl
Gayle's failed Taygete

Somewhere around the 44 minute mark the neighbor's gasoline gardeners arrive and you will hear leaf blowers and mowers and other assorted gasoline-powered garden appliances. (So loud and smelly!) It isn't that bad, and I may be the only one who notices. :)

If you are considering knitting something for yourself for the Self-Indulgent KAL, please come over to our Ravelry group and discuss! Knit something for yourself and kick off the new year with a new knitting project. I am now declaring that I will be knitting the Tangled Yoke Cardigan by Eunny Jang. Join us!

Episode 23

 What are we wearing?
 Owls by Kate Davies
Sharlene's Owls sweater
 Aidez by Cirilia Rose
Gayle's Aidez sweater

What are we stalking?
Walpole by Hannah Fettig
Meridien by Joji Locatelli
Francis Revisited by Beth Silverstein
Sharlene's Ingenue
Tangled Yoke Cardigan by Eunny Jang
Snowball Hat by Katie Himmelberg
Lemongrass by Joji Locatelli

What are we knitting?
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Ruth's Tee by Rachel Ivy Clark
Malabrigo Sock yarn
Gayle's Stripey scarf
Rayures by Amy Miller
  
What have we finished?
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Dragonflies
Endpaper Mitts by Eunny Jang
Commuter by Stephanie Sun
Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer

A book review
Shades of Winter, Knitting with Natural Wool by Ingalill Johansson and Ewa K. Andinsson

Links for Gayle's adventure weekend!
VJ Foster - Gayle's Uncle

The Rivals by Richard Brinsley Sheridan

LA Times Review

La Brea Tar Pits

Grauman's Chinese Theater

Griffith Observatory

A book review: Shades of Winter

In episode 23 we review Shades of Winter: Knitting with Natural Wool by Ingalill Johansson published by Interweave Press. I am posting my written review here. 

- Sharlene

First Impressions

This is a beautifully photographed, cohesive collection. The collection was photographed at Icehotel, Sweden. The images of the hotel and grounds in the photographs made we want to see and learn more about the hotel.

All the yarns used in the designs in the book are "Ecological Wool" described as being "natural colors of sheep's wool." The patterns use two yarn weights. The Swedish Yarns used are:
Marks & Kattens Eco Baby Wool (#2 fine)
Marks & Kattens Eco Wool (#4 worsted)

The patterns and book are divided into three color categories:

• Natural White
• Gray
• Beige 

There are twenty-five patterns, with 5 patterns actually being sets of matching accessories, such as cap, cowl, wrist warmers, and socks.

Natural White
The Ribbed Cap and Wrist Warmers are great basics, good beginner projects and great for learning to knit in the round. The Lace Sweater is a beautiful tunic. The Texture Knit Cardigan is definitely something I would wear. There is also a vest version that I like as well. The Stockinette Dress is 60s-inspired and photographed quite nicely with white boots that give it an updated feel.

Gray
I love the Cabled Cap, Cowl, and Wrist Warmers. Also the Lace Shawl with crocheted edging.

Beige
The Short-Sleeved Vest is a great layering piece. The Garter Stitch Shawl looks cozy and warm.

Patterns
I like the fact that Interweave uses Craft Yarn Council standards for yarn weights in the patterns. It is nice that patterns are offered in ranges from approximately 30" to 50" for the garments. There is a range of accessories and garments.  Knitters who don't like to follow charts should be aware that is the only option in this book. There are no accompanying written out instructions for sections that are charted. Many of the garments are styled and designed for more youthful figures, though a few sweaters may appeal to a wider age audience. The accessories may appeal to a wider age range as well.

It has been difficult as of this writing to find photographs of any of the designs in the book. There are few entries for this title on Ravelry. Given this difficulty, this will be a book you may need to seek out in person rather than ordering sight unseen.

Episode 22

We open this episode with a bout of the giggles, having made three attempts to get the episode number correct. :) Fortunately for our listeners things get better. We chat about Sharlene's new kitten, hear a little bit about knitting for Halloween, and our usual segments. We finish off with a book review of the publication November Knits from Interweave Press. You can find the written review below. Enjoy!

What are we wearing?
Wicked by Rachel Bishop
Sharlene's Wicked
Amande Vest by Hilary Smith Callis
Gayle's Amande Vest

What are we stalking?
Pull Me Over by Andrea Black
Lemongrass by Joji Locatelli
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Aurora Australis by Melinda Vermeer
Golden Hour by Suvi Simola

What are we knitting?
Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer
A-Line Hoodie by Diane Soucy
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Daphne and Delilah by Rebecca Danger
Taygete by Rosemary Hill

What have we finished?
Preemie Hat 
Patsy Hat
XOXO Headband by Amy O'Neill Houck
Gayle's XOXO
86-10 Headband
Gayle's 86-10
Gayle's Pinkbow Scarf
Amande Vest by Hilary Smith Callis
Gayle's Amande
Gyre cowl by Elizabeth Elliott
Gayle's Gyre

Also mentioned:
Carewear.org
Monty Python and the Holy Grail - Patsy (YouTube link)

Meet Boo!

This is the new kitten Boo. He's been in our house for a few days now and the family couldn't agree on a name. The calender hanging in the kitchen has a graphic of a black cat with the word "Boo!" over it for Halloween. I laughingly suggested Boo, and surprisingly, the four people trying to agree on one name didn't disagree! Which after days of many, many possible name suggestions was a minor miracle. :) Not being one to leave it at Boo, I have been calling him Kitten Kaboodle, so I think that Boo will stick!

A Book Review: November Knits

In Episode 22, we review the lovely book November Knits, by Kate Gagnon Osborn and Courtney Kelley, published by Interweave Press. I am posting my written review here for you.
- Sharlene

The authors, Kate Gagnon Osborn and Courtney Kelley are the distributors of The Fibre Company yarns, Kelbourne Woolens. I do not know what other yarns or yarn lines Kelbourne Woolens distributes, though from their website, they appear to only distribute The Fibre Company yarns. The authors only have a handful of their own accessories in the book, calling themselves “curators” to the collection.

First impressions
This collection of garments and accessories is full of casual, easy-to-wear pieces you will reach for day after day. I love the way the pieces are styled,  casually, but put-together. The cover sweater, the Burdock Cardigan–which I quite like–is styled with jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt. The model looks contemporary yet classic. I think it is a piece that can appeal to many age groups, and fit into the wardrobes of students, moms, and career women.

Yarns
I believe all the patterns use different yarns, including:

- Manos del Uruguay Wool Classica
- Imperial Stock Ranch Tracie
- Rowan Felted Tweed and LIma
- Berroco Peruvia Quick
- Mountain Colors Mountain Goat
- Brown Sheep Nature Spun Worsted
- Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock
- Green Mountain Spinnery Local Color
- O-Wool Classic
- The Fibre Company Organik, Canopy Worsted & Fingering, Savannah, and
Road to China Worsted
- Jamieson’s Shetland Spindrift
- Classic Elite Yarns Fresco
- Quince and Company Lark
- Schaefter Yarn Audrey
- Madelinetosh sock

Patterns
The patterns are divided into three sections.

In Farm Hands, the focus is on texture. Ivy League features “layering pieces utilizing multiple color techniques, Fair Isle, stranded knitting, and stripes.” The Southern Comfort section uses decorative embellishments such as lace and beads. There are 20 patterns in total, including two that are 2-piece sets, most by designers that are known or recognized.

What would I knit?
From the Farm Hands section, I quite like the Burdock Cardigan, written by Maura Kirk. It is the green cover sweater, knit in a textured “Star pattern” stitch, and as I previously mentioned, styled casually, for my lifestyle.

I also like the Market Jacket, by Tanis Gray. Tanis also previously designed a cowl that I liked in the Knit Red book that Gayle and I have previously talked about on the show. Like the Burdock Cardigan, the Market Jacket is an easy layering cardigan, this one knit top-down, also 3/4-sleeve but with lace panels to add interest. The fold-over collar gives it a more traditional than modern feel, as do the wooden buttons used on the sample.

From the Ivy League section, I have previously mentioned in episode 19, the Cobblestone Trenchcoat by Veera Valimaki. The Cobblestone Trenchcoat is knit in one of my favorite yarns, Rowan Lima. The Trenchcoat has a little swing built into the skirt, a wide, almost ballet collar, and a big oversize hood. It looks very warm and very cozy. It sports 4 top-closure buttons, easily modified if you want closures all the way down the front.

The Trefoil Cardigan by Gundrun Johnston is a sweet, flower-yoked sweater, knit in colorwork, with side pockets that have a little peek-a-boo contrast lining. I personally love the little peek of lining, as I always feel if you are going to line a garment, try to make it fun. I think the pockets give it a more contemporary feel than the usual colorwork yoked sweater, and you could knit this one in a classic or a modern palette depending on your wardrobe or mood.

Favorite Accessories
The Hilton Field Cowl by Kate Gagnon Osborn is a reversible cowl, with Herringbone colorwork on one side, and stripes on the other. The Thistle Leg Warmers by Melissa LaBarre are knit with a simple cable and seed and rib stitches, in Imperial Yarns Tracie, one of the many yarns I want to try.

Pattern Writing
I love that the yarn weights needed for the patterns are all specified using the Craft Yarn Council yarn standards.

Sizes range from low 30’s to 40”, 48”, 50”, 52”, 57”, and 61”. If you are on either end of the size range, you will want to check the specific patterns you are interested in for your size. Not every garment has the same size range.

Lace and colorwork patterns are written as charts only.

Most of the garments could potentially appeal to a broad age range, and can be styled up or down. The accessories, though not as appealing to someone who doesn’t live in a mitten climate, are certainly beautiful, and similarly, can span age groups. The photography highlights the garments, and doesn't focus on moody models or stunning background scenery to sell the garments. As a knitter, I appreciate a book publisher that knows the difference. Overall, I think this book is a great value with patterns that are interesting, contemporary yet classic, and succeeds with "inspired designs for changing seasons."

Mea culpa

In Episode 21, I mistakenly said that the lace pattern in Corazon only has charted directions. My mistake!! The written directions for the lace motif are on page 1 of the pattern.

So, the awesome Corazon includes both charted and written instructions for the lace motif.

Second - xanthey,  Erika, is the winner of the Corazon pattern from the lovely & generous mindofwinter,  Julia! Erika, we can’t wait to see your version knit up in the future. Congratulations!

- Gayle

Episode 21

 Episode 21! We had a lot of fun recording this episode and actually recorded this one straight through. Usually we need to take a drink or throat-clearing break, or one of us "umms" too many times and calls a halt to the proceedings. But this time, straight through. After 21 episodes maybe we are getting the hang of it. :) Again, we attempt to cram far too much information into one short hour, so this episode goes a bit over. Stick with us!

A big thanks to all who have been participating in the pattern purchase discussion over in our group on Ravelry. It is very enlightening and we love hearing all of your opinions.  And if we've forgotten to say it lately, another big THANK-YOU to all our listeners. You brighten our days, and ignite our knitting passion. We love our craft and we love sharing it with you.

What are we wearing?
Drifting by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sharlene's Drifting

What are we stalking?
Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer
Sideway Shawls by Kyoko Nakayoshi
Merging Ripple Shawl by Kyoko Nakayoshi
Knitscene, Winter 2012
Amande Vest by Hilary Smith Callis

What are we knitting?
 A-Line Hoodie by Diane Soucy
127-29 Shawl with Flounce by DROPS Design
Ideas for variegated yarn thread on Ravelry
Taygete by Rosemary Hill

What have we finished?
Sharlene's Preemie hat, no pattern
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Sharlene's Breezy Cardigan
Gayle's Preemie hats
Gayle's Mont Royal hat by tshep
Corazon by Julia Trice
Gayle's Corazon

Discussion about pattern purchases in our Ravelry group
Thanks to Julia Trice for donating a copy of the Corazon pattern!

Some new-to-us yarns we've recently seen and would like to see more of include:
Imperial Yarn 
Quince and Company Tern
Swans Island Yarn
Plucky Knitter Yarn
Blue Heron Bamboo Lace

Episode 20

What are you wearing?
Ishbel by Ysolda Teague
Handmaiden Fine Yarn Sea Silk
Sharlene's Sea Silk Ishbel
5200K by Suvi Simola
Gayle's 5200K
Western Sky Knits Kim
Western Sky Knits yarns

What are you stalking?
Elfe by Astrid Schramm
Winding Vest by Vanessa Ewing
Meridian by Joji Locatelli
Amonde Vest by Hilary Smith Callis
Ruth's Tee by Rachel Ivy Clarke

Who has a birthday today? Click on the "people" tab in Ravelry, and underneath the search field, click on the "Happy Birthdays!" link. Go wish someone a Happy Birthday. Go ahead, we'll wait. :) Spread a little knitterly love.

What are you knitting?
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
A-Line Hoodie by Diane Soucy
Mont Royal Hat by tshep
Corazon by Julia Trice

What Have you finished?
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Cowl-Neck Vest by Cecily Glowick MacDonald

So many projects, so little time! We both have growing queues and yarn to knit them.  Gayle is speeding through projects, Sharlene is limping along, but hoping for a power up. :) It is the first week of October, and super warm here. But never fear, sweater weather is right around the corner. Santa Cruz is only allowed three hot days in a row at this time of the year before the fog rolls in. We hope you enjoy this episode. We had lots of fun recording.

Episode 19

 As usual, lots of new patterns discussed this week. Especially when we talk about holiday knitting. No, don't run screaming, you know it is coming! We realize not everyone knits gifts for the holidays, but if you do, we hope you will find our resources helpful. If you have any other patterns and projects that you like for holiday knitting, don't hesitate to share it in the comments or over in our Ravelry group. Happy knitting!



What are we wearing?
Featherweight Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Spud and Chloe Fine
Pendulum shawl by Amy Miller
Colinette Jitterbug
Tosh Merino Light by Madelinetosh
Fuse by Veronik Avery

What are we stalking?
Fall Away Cardign by Heidi Kirrmaier
Shift of Focus by Veera Valimaki
Cobblestone Trenchcoat by Veera Valimaki
Rowan Lima
Corazon by Julia Trice
Endpaper Mitts by Eunny Jang
mont-royal hat by Tshep
Cabled Baby Hats
Thinking of Waves shawl by yellowcosmo

What are we knitting?
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Tosh Lace Silver Fox
Edler007 phototutorials on alternating 2 skeins of yarn
Edler007 phototurorials on alternating 3 skeins of yarn
A-Line Hoodie by Diane Soucy
Knit Red book
Cowl-Neck Vest by Cecily Glowick MacDonald
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Rowan Calmer (this yarn is discontinued)

What have we finished?
Still Light Tunic by Veera Valimaki
Jenica Hoodie by Joji Locatelli

Holiday Knitting
These are some of our favorite projects and/or categories to make for holiday gift giving:

Hermione Hearts Ron by Christy Aylesworth
Garfunkel Hat by Jocelyn Tunney

Honey Cowl by Ann Maria for Madelinetosh
Malabrigo Waffles Scarf by Sarah Florent

Sharlene's Sea Anemone Bath or Kitchen Scrubbie
Cat Knitting Pattern by Linda Dawkins

198 Yards of Heaven by Christy Verity
Cabled iPad Sleeve by haramis designs
Lacy Cabled Cell Phone Cozy by Terra LaKlare
Evangeline mitts by Michelle Szeghalmi-Shirley

Episode 18 - Hello September

September is here, the kids are back in school, and we are roving podcasters no more. Don't get me wrong, we love summer, but there is something comforting about returning to our usual recording spot (my dining room table), with its usual comforts (available internet connection, drinks, bathroom). In this part of California, September is usually one of our warmest months. Though we aren't feeling the fall knits yet, we both have an eye on some new and new-to-us patterns and fantasy knitting projects. Our stalking segment is full of possibilities. Our knitting presents us with challenges. Our finished objects hold both happiness and heartbreak. Just another week with The Yarniacs! Enjoy.

What are we wearing?
Drifting by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Abstract Fiber Supersock, valentine colorway
Sharlene's Drifting
Sharlene also knit a second Drifting, that was a gift for her sister
Freya by Andrea Black
Gayle's Freya

 What are we stalking?
Lull by Hiroko Fukatsu aka Roko on Ravelry
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Dragonflies by Joji Locatelli
The Way from Brighton by Joji Locatelli
Alcazar by Joji Locatelli
Antiquo by Gudrun Johnston

What are we knitting?
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Jenica Hoodie by Joji Locatelli

What have we finished?
198 yards of Heaven by Christy Verity
Sharlene's Heaven shawlette
Turn a Square hat by Jared Flood
Cowl Neck Vest by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Pom Pom Peds by Purl Soho
Gayle's Peds
Aynia shrug by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Gayle's Aynia
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier

KAL news
Winners are announced!

Sharlene's new Instagram account: @yarniac
I am having fun following everyone's photos!

Episode 17 - The Reunion

After weeks if summer travel,  Gayle and I record our reunion episode! We are catching up on each others projects so there is a lot of knitting content packed into this hour, along with some ambient sound effects from our local surfboard shaper. All will be explained in the episode.

We are almost done with our summer KAL so there is an update at the very end. It was great to record together again, and we are already planning the next episode!

What are we wearing?
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Sharlene's Laika
5200K by Suvi Simola
Gayle's 5200K

What are we stalking?
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Walpole cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Jenica by Joji Locatelli
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Winterfell collection by Avril Lang
Arya's Needle by Avril Lang

What are we knitting?
Cowl-neck Vest by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
198 yards of Heaven by Christy Verity
Pom Pom Peds by Purl Soho
Aynia shrug

What have we finished?
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Sharlene's Laika
Laar by Gudren Johnson
Norie hat by Gudren Johnson
Leftie shawl by Martina Behm

Episode 16 - Across the pond

The week we are recording via Skype, Sharlene in California, Gayle in France. This presents its own set of unusual challenges as we try this for the first time. At times the audio may sound a little tinny, probably due to this recording set up. We didn't chat much before we recorded since the time, with the difference, and Gayle's internet access is limited.

After our usual segments, we appended two pre-recorded segments that we had at the ready. One is about the Citron shawlette, and the second is about some Ravelry knitters whose projects we look to for ideas and inspiration. Enjoy!

What are we stalking?
Tangled Yoke Cardigan by Eunny Jang
198 Yards of Heaven by Christy Verity

What are we knitting?
Laika sweater by Ysolda Teague
Sharlene's buttons for Laika
the one-row buttonhole from knittinghelp.com via YouTube
written directions for the one-row buttonhole
Cowl-neck Vest by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Malabrigo Rios yarn
Laar cardigan by Gudrun Johnston
Madelinetosh lace yarn
Leftie shawl by Martina Behm
Norie hat by Gudrun Johnston

What have we finished?
5200K by Suvi Simola
Lang Donegal yarn
Christian's Hat by Ágnes Kutas-Keresztes
Zuzu's Petals cowl by Carina Spencer
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Sharlene's Buttercup 2

The Citron shawl by Hilary Smith Callis, was published in the Winter 2009 edition of knitty magazine.
Malabrigo lace yarn
9-stitch shawl cast-on tutorial from West Knits blog

Some favorite knitters to stalk on Ravelry
We look at the following knitters' projects with admiration and joy, look to them for inspiration and ideas, and thank them gratefully for sharing their knowledge and love of knitting.

In no particular order other than how they came up during our discussion:
jettshin
roko
edler007
fluffyknitterdeb
margene
nightmorning
yarnosorus
tashbalaz
knitwit41
ymalcolm
larisa

Thanks so much for listening! Our next episode, will be the Reunion episode. :)

Episode 15 show notes

Welcome to Episode 15. We recorded a little early, right before Gayle left for France, and saved it for release this week. Don't be disoriented, you are not time traveling. :) Gayle and I have both had internet connectivity "challenges" this past week, and our contact has been minimal. We hope to attempt an across-the-pond episode if at all possible. Lots of fun discussion in the episode, and we share some more about those first sweater challenges including swatching voodoo. Enjoy!

What are we wearing this week?
Lilas Cardigan by Hilary Smith Callis
(Correction to Sharlene's comments: published in 2010, not 2012! )
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Gayle's Laika
Basic hook and eye closures
Hook and eye tutorial
(There are also some hook and eye tutorial videos on YouTube. Who knew? Just do a search over there for "hook and eye.")

What are we stalking (and packing!)
Walpole by Hannah Fettig
Madelinetosh tosh merino light
William Morris colorway
William Morris the designer
Zest Cardigan by Jennifer
Christians hat by Ágnes Kutas-Keresztes
Laar Cardigan by Gudrun Johnston
Madelinetosh tosh lace Mouring dove
Candelia by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Aynia Shrug by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sothia by Robin Ulrich
5200K sweater by Suvi Simola


What are we knitting?
Laika is getting there! Sharlene is working on the endless edging!
Our new technical knitting terms: wonky and fiddly!
Leftie shawl by Martina Behm


What have we finished?
Sharlene ripped out Caddy's Sweater
Cat Knitting Pattern by Linda Dawkins
 Gayle's cat


Sharlene's cardinal rule of knitting: Never rip anything major after 10pm! (OR whenever your personal witching hour occurs!)
Background sound effects provided by the European Starling! If you click on the link for the "call" that is clearly what the starlings in our neck of the woods were doing the afternoon we recorded.

Feel free to discuss, start threads, or ask questions in our group over at Ravelry. Both of us should be around a bit more this week as I think both of our internet connectivity issues are solved. Fingers crossed!

Episode 15

If you would like to subscribe or listen through iTunes, click here.

If you would like to listen to Episode 15 through your web browser, click here.
Please note: There may be a slight delay before the file starts depending on your internet speed.

Episode 14 show notes

 As always, please let me know if I am missing anything! I broke up the links into the podcast sections this time. Hopefully that will be helpful. This episode was recorded a little early because of our summer schedules, but we are following our regular release schedule. Happy summer everyone. Let us know any summer travel/vacation knitting tips you have to share!

What are we wearing?
 Spring Showers by Joji Locatelli
Malabrigo Arroyo yarn
Sharlene's Spring Showers
Andrea Black's Mary Mary
Gayle's Mary Mary
Lorna's Laces Solemate yarn
Solemate's Lincoln Park Colorway

What are we stalking?
Walpole by Hannah Fettig
Tonos Worsted by Misti Alpaca
Twist Pullover by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Aynia shrug by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Leftie shawl by Marina Behm
Madelinetosh Eyre Light

 What are we knitting?
Laika by Ysolda Teague
5200K sweater
Western Sky Knits yarn

What have we finished?
Lotus Hat by Uptown Purl
Rowan Lima Yarn
Textured Shawl Recipe
Gayle's Textured Shawl
Shellseeker pullover by Heidi Kirrmaier
Red Heart Soft yarn

 Yarniacs Podcast group on Ravelry
Our KAL thread on Ravelry

Episode 14

If you would like to subscribe or listen through iTunes, click here.


If you would like to listen to Episode 14 through your (non-Flash) web browser, click here.

Please note: There may be a slight delay before the file starts depending on your internet speed.

Episode 13

If you would like to subscribe or listen through iTunes, click here.


If you would like to listen to Episode 13 through your (non-Flash) web browser, click here.

Please note: There may be a slight delay before the file starts depending on your internet speed.

Episode 13 Show notes

Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Sharlene's Buttercup
Peggy Sue by Linda Wilgus
Gayle's Peggy Sue

Knit Red projects
Shellseeker by Heidi Kirrmaier
Spud and Chloe Sweater yarn

5200K by Suvi Simola
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Tosh Merino Light yarn

Sharlene's second Bianca's Jacket
Spring Showers by Joji Locatelli

New prizes for the KAL donated by
nevernotknitting (Ravelry name and link)
Coastal Kids collection
Coastal Knits collection

This week we are slightly less long-winded, making up for a couple of longer past episodes! Summer is here and recording time, as well as knitting time is at a premium. We chat a little bit about how the heck we find time to knit, but I am realizing with summer activities and differing schedules I have been finding much less knitting time. As always, we hope you enjoy, and will post questions or comments in our group over at Ravelry.

Episode 12 Show notes

 Wow, links galore. We packed a lot into this hour. We are back to recording in the house but a few ambient noises make it onto the recording. The neighbor's gasoline gardeners; (I call them the gasoline gardeners because the main thing they do seems to be running gasoline-powered blowers. They are very effective in blowing things around and creating lots of smelly gasoline exhaust. I can't speak to any actual gardening being accomplished however) bird sounds from the open windows; (it was a warm day!) and if you hear a metallic tinkling, it is my cat wandering through the room and the bell on his collar tinkling.

As always, questions or comments may be left here or visit our group on Ravelry. Enjoy!


Bianca's Jacket by Michelle Rose Orne
Sharlene's first Bianca
Deep Breath by Kirsten Hipsky
Valley Yarns 2/14 Alpaca silk
Gayle's Deep Breath

Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Rocio by Joji Locatelli
Jettshin's Rocio
Laika by Ysolda Teague
5200K by Suvi Simola
Global Warming by Suvi Simola
Filtering Daylight by Suvi Simola
Knit Red: Stitching for Women's Heart Health

Spring Showers by Joji Locatelli
Malabrigo Arroyo
Cardi #2 by Andrea Black
Shibui Sock
Peggy Sue by Linda Wilgus
Mock Rib Watch Cap by Tanis Gray

Chili Pepper Red Towel by Janet Carlow
Freya sweater by Andrea Black
Coraline by Ysolda Teague
Warriston by Kate Davies
Transit of Venus

Neck down cardigan by Diane Soucy
Sharlene's first sweater
Sitcom Chic by Bonne Marie Burns
Not Standard-issue Sweatshirt
Ribby Pulli by Bonne Marie Burns
Yogini Bolero by Wendy Bernard
The First Yarniacs KAL thread on Ravelry
Lotus Hat by Uptown Purl

Episode 11

 The audio for this episode may sound a little different--though actually it might be argued it sounds better!--because we didn't record in one of our houses as Gayle explains at the beginning of the podcast. We recorded in her car while parked in my neighborhood. Not ideal, but a good test for us as it is always good to have options!

In the podcast we mentioned the Camellia shawl by Meg Myers. We also mentioned the Stitch Red campaign. After recording, we realized the Camellia shawl is a free pattern from Classic Elite to promote their yarns for the Stitch Red campaign. If you purchase one of their designated Stitch Red yarns, 5% of the proceeds are donated to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health in support of The Heart Truth.

Enjoy!

Links to things discussed can be found below:

 February Lady Sweater
Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitter's Almanac
Sharlene's February Lady Sweater
Gayle's February Lady Sweater

Using a lifeline, tips from Knitting Daily
There are also videos on YouTube for using a lifeline in your knitting. I haven't watched any of them all the way through, so can't recommend any specific one, but if you search, you will find several available.
Knit Red: Stitching for Women's Health
 A-Line Hoodie by Diane Soucy
Cowl Neck Vest by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
15. 52 00K
Gayle's Apres Surf Hoodie
Sothia by Robin Ulrich
Stripe Study Shawl by Veera Valimaki
Different Lines by Veera Valimaki
Camellia by Meg Myers
Pendulum by Amy Miller

Short Row article from knitty.com
Short Row article from Techknitter
Short rows for sock knitters from Cat Bordhi
There are lots of short row videos on YouTube as well. Search for "short rows."

Bianca's Jacket by Michelle Rose Orne
Sharlene's Bianca
Sharlene's Bianca 2

Gayle's preemie hat
Enamored by Laura Ayler

Fingering weight KAL to start June 15, knitting through August 31. There will be a chat thread and an FO thread on Ravelry.com in our group.

As always, please let me know if I have left anything out.

Episode 10 Show notes

Sitcom Chic by Bonne Marie Burns
Pakucho cotton yarn
Freya by Andrea Black
Jogless stripes technique
Eunny Jang's jogless stripes technique video
Cabled iPad sleeve by Emily Nimz
TGV by Susan Ashcroft
Honeybee Cardigan by  Laura Chau
Lighthouse Keeper's Wife by Melissa Schaschwary
Bianca's Jacket by Michele Rose Orne
Enamored shawl by Laura Aylor
Camellia by Meg Myers
Ballerina Shawl by Michelle Miller
Jane by Jane Richmond
Knitbot designs by Hannah Fettig
Winged Knits designs by Cecily Glowik MacDonald

Episode 9 show notes

Links to patterns, projects, and yarns we discuss in episode 9 can be found here. If I have left anything out, please don't hesitate to ask in the comments or in our Ravelry group.

 Current by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sharlene's Current
Madelinetosh Sock
Katrina by Nicole Feller-Johnson
Gayle's Katrina
April Showers Collection by Joji Locatelli
Spring Showers by Joji Locatelli
Paper Dolls by Kate Davies
Freya by Andrea Black
Rocky Coast Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Ballerina Shawl by Michelle Miller
Warriston by Kate Davies
Cascade Eco+ yarn
Button-Tab Hat by Marcie Nishioka
Mollie Flowers by Brigitte Read
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Coraline by Ysolda Teague

If you would like to subscribe or listen through iTunes, click here.

If you would like to listen to Episode 9 through your (non-Flash) web browser, click here.

Please note: There may be a slight delay before the file starts depending on your internet speed.

Knitting Wasteland

For tonight's main attraction my knitting friends, watch this unsuspecting Yarniac knit round and round on her project. Her ball of yarn gets smaller, watch the number of rows increase, yet observe how the knitting does not get any longer! Is it a magical ball of yarn? Has our unsuspecting Yarniac entered a knitting time warp? Yes, my knitting friends, our unsuspecting knitter has entered the Knitting Wasteland.

Henceforth, that grey area of knitting, that place where you go round and round and yet your garment does not grow, shall be known as the Knitting Wasteland.

So how is your knitting tonight?

Episode 8 show notes

Wow. This one is a longer-than-usual episode. I guess we had more to say that I thought. Based on listener comments we are trying to provide more information about each project or pattern we discuss. Hopefully we have succeeded in doing that this episode. Again, we will get better!

Some ambient noises this time. The frig came on, the fan on the computer came on. The ice-maker may have chimed in at one point too. I need to start a list of things to shut down before recording! Since we don't record in a sound room, there will always be a little bit of mood noise.

Links to everything (I hope) we discussed below. If it is a pattern that we've been discussing on previous episodes, I may link to our Ravelry project page instead of the Ravelry pattern page or designer web site. If I have left something off the list, please don't hesitate to ask in the comments.

Enjoy episode 8!

Transverse Cardigan by Ann Weaver
Dolman sleeve definition
Sharlene's Transverse Cardigan
Gayle's Sabine shrug
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Bianca's Jacket by Michele Rose Orne
Tinder by Jared Flood
Camellia shawl by Meg Myers
Enamored shawl by Linda Aylor
Sharlene's Traveling Sweater
Still Light Tunic by Veera Valimaki
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Chili Pepper Red Kitchen Towel by Janet Carlow
Coraline by Ysolda Teague
Sharlene's finished Ginkgo Shoulderette Shawl
Gayle's Emilien
Gayle's Fuse
iPad sleeve
Bryn Mawr skirt by Nancy Eiseman
Zuzu's Petals by Carina Spencer
Citron by Hilary Smith Callis

Episode 7 show notes

Gayle and I recorded episode 7 early, in anticipation of spring break this week, and the distraction of kids at home. We are experimenting with a new microphone. I don't know if you will be able to hear a difference, but it is one that should potentially produce better audio files. Fingers crossed. Enjoy!

Rosedale pattern
Cassis by Thea Colman
ImagiKnit in San Francisco
Sharlene's Tosh Merino Light
Laika Sweater by Ysolda Teague
Flaming June by Cheryl Niamath
There is a knit-a-long (KAL) on Ravelry here.
Gayle's madelinetosh Pashmina worsted in Tart
Adrift cardigan by Carol Feller
Seaman's Cap by Brenda Zuk
Ballerina Shawl by Michelle Miller
Ballerian Shawl KAL in Michelle's group on Ravelry
Faberge Shawl by Laura Ayler

You can find our Ravelry group here!

New and Noteworthy Again!

Thanks everyone for your iTunes star ratings, reviews, and subscriptions. You've helped push us into the New and Noteworthy section again!

Sometimes the body is weak

I have been excited working on my Traveling Sweater and watching the whole thing come together. The construction is completely different from anything I've knit before. It is like figuring out how to fold an origami piece. Anyone who knows my knitting tastes knows I fall hard for unusual construction! But after a rainy weekend with a few basketball games thrown in for extra knitting time it has taken a toll on my wrists. I have tendonitis in these old paws and though it doesn't flare often, yesterday I had to admit I was a little sore.

Multiple project syndrom to the rescue! The Ginkgo shawlette came out of hiding and I finished the knitting last night. Nice and light and didn't at all bother the wrists. Gayle just texted me that she spent some time today working in the garden and her hands are sore. Maybe she'll be reaching for something in a lighter vintage tonight as well.

Episode 6 show notes

This week we chatted about:

Mondo Cable Cardi by Bonne Marie Burns
Bonne Marie Burns' zipper tutorial
Crochet stabilitzing
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Montera Embroidered Button Jacket by Pam Allen
Favorite Hoodie by Wendy Bernard
Traveling Sweater by A. Karen Alfke
Ginkgo Shawlette by Maggie Magali
Ballerina Shawl by Michelle Miller
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Cloudy Day Beret by Alana Dakos
Carnaby skirt by Nikol Lohr
For the attached i-cord
Heart washcloths
Sea Anemone crochet scrubbies
seven circle by Kirstin Johnstone
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Rocky Coast Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Hannah's arm and yoke modifications

We share our experiences knitting the Rocky Coast Cardigan, the good and the bad, yarn substitutions that worked well and not so well. Overall, we both love this sweater, and would knit it again. The recent modifications by Hannah should improve the overall fit, and we do note that the older sizing was problematic, especially in the arm snugness. Sharlene recommends checking the arm circumference when picking a size!

New and Noteworthy!

We are both thrilled that our little podcast has been featured in the "New and Noteworthy" section of Games and Hobbies on iTunes. I can't provide a direct link, but if you go to the Games and Hobbies area of the podcasts section, there are 20 New and Noteworthy podcasts listed, The Yarniacs Podcast among them. Wow!

Episode 5 show notes

Recording Episode 5 did not go as smoothly as previous episodes. Birds, wind chimes, and at one point there is a short humming/buzzing in the background as the ice-maker kicked in on my frig. So bear with us. Each episode we learn a little bit about the sound and the quality and we do strive to deliver the best audio we can.

In this episode, we discuss the following:

Whisper Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Gayle's Whisper
Madelinetosh Vintage yarn
Jenica Hoodie by Joji Locatelli
Pole by Joji Locatelli
Émilien by Ariane Caron-Lacoste
Still Light Tunic by Veera Valimaki
Fuse by Veronik Avery
Sharlene's Fuse
Ishbel Shawl by Ysolda Teague
Windhelm by tshep
Slouchy Bubbles by tshep
Textile Garden online shop

We decided to give you a few highlights from our day at Stitches West!
Lo-Lo bars
Western Sky Knits
Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods
Leaves collection by Michelle Miller aka Fickleknitter on Ravelry

Special thanks to Michelle Miller for giving us a hard copy of her book "Leaves" for a listener prize. If you would like to enter this contest, please look at the Leaves collection and tell us which pattern you would like to knit. Leave a comment here, and we will randomly select one commenter to receive this lovely publication!

3/31/12 Comments for this contest are now closed! Thanks for entering.

Updating stash

I am going to try to keep an accurate stash page on Ravelry this year. I've never done that in the past, but it really is helpful to remind you of what you have hiding away in boxes and bins. Guess what my favorite colors are, ROFLOL!

Note: You will need to be logged into ravelry.com to view this link.

Gone Stitchin'

Yesterday Gayle and I spent the day at the much-anticipated event Stitches West. We went prepared. Having attended this large-scale yarn feeding frenzy for many, many years we had our checklist:

Water? √
Snacks? √
Knitting? √
Ibuprofen? √
Note paper and pen? √
Patterns? √
Shopping lists? √
iPod, lip gloss, cash, etc, etc. √√√

It felt a bit like preparing to run away from home, but sometimes it's the little things that can make or break an outing. Knitters gotta be prepared.

We met a few new and new-to-us vendors, picked up a prize for a future listener raffle, met a brave listener who came up and introduced herself, and had lovely chats with many, many knitters. Full recap to come. And of course, a few skeins and bobbles made their way home with us.

In the car on the way home as we chatted about our knitting I noticed we both had some new ideas, new inspirations, and were quite excited to cast on something new. Well worth the price of admission!

Episode 4 Show Notes

Favorite Cardigan by Wendy Bernard
Sharlene's Fav Cardi
Coastal Hoodie by Tori Gurbisz
Gayle's Coastal Hoodie
Drifting by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Lanesplitter Skirt by Tina Whitmore
Swirl Skirt by AnnaLena Mattison
Wildflower Cardigan by Alana Dakos
Melia by Ysolda Teague
Blue Thistle by Avril Lang
Meadowlark by Amy Swenson
Fuse by Veronik Avery
Sharlene's Fuse
Emilien by Ariane Caron-Lacoste
Gayle's Laikia
Lace-Edged Women's Hat by Julie Hentz
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Ingenue by Wendy Bernard
Sharlene's Ingenue

Note: I did not make up a new word: synchronistic! Consider it your new word for the day. :)

Episode 4

If you would like to subscribe or listen through iTunes, click here.



If you would like to listen to Episode 4 through your (non-Flash) web browser, click here.

Please note: There may be a slight delay before the file starts depending on your internet speed.

Episode 4 recorded

Episode 4 has been recorded and is in production now. We will keep you posted.

Episode 3 Show Notes

Rocky Coast Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Miss Babs Yowza - Whatta Skein!
Jeweled Cowl by Sachiko Uemura
Heart Cookie Mitts by Mary Jane Mucklestone
Wicked by Rachel Bishop
Opposite Pole by Joji Locatelli
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Emilien by Ariane Caron-Lacoste
Ingenue by Wendy Bernard
Rogue by Jenna Wilson

I noticed while editing that when Gayle and I talk about dolman sleeves, instead of finishing my verbal description, I gestured to Gayle and she understood my gestures. So I didn't give a real description of a dolman sleeve. Dolman sleeves are also referred to as "batwing" sleeves, and a definition can be found here. I will have to watch out for the gestures when podcasting!