Episode 52 - Brooke Sinnes from Sincere Sheep

In this episode we welcome Brooke Sinnes, Fiber Artist & Proprietor of Sincere Sheep. Sincere Sheep specializes in "naturally beautiful yarns & fibers" including breed specific yarns and yarns that are farm specific. You can read about Brooke and Sincere Sheep here, and find her shop here. Brooke has an incredible amount of knowledge to share with us in the episode. I hope it is helpful and interesting. I've listened a couple of times and I still don't think I caught everything. This was recorded a couple of weeks ago, so if our projects seem a little out of order, that is why. You can hear Brooke's little cockatiel in the background in a few places. The little guy wanted to join our chat.
We recorded a brief update to the current KAL which was recorded in a bustling yarn shop. Happy ambient knitting noise can be enjoyed in the background. As always, bring any questions you have to our group on Ravelry and join in the discussion. Enjoy and Happy New Year to all!

What are we knitting?
Welcome to the Flock by Julia Farwell-Clay
Aislinn by Amy Herzogg
Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty
Hogwart's Express by Susan Ashcroft
Shasta Daisy Knits yarns
Alpenglow yarns

What are we stalking?
Brooke is always stalking new sources for her yarns.
Sharlene is stalking the slipper category on Ravelry.
Gayle is stalking the hat category on Ravelry.

The Sincere Sheep Ravelry group can be found here. 

Episode 52 - Audio link

Click here for episode 52 audio.

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Episode 51 - Very merry & low key

I am recovering from a cold both as I write this, and on the day we recorded. Thus, it was a very merry low-key episode for me. I mentioned to Gayle that I felt she had to carry the episode and that I had several long pauses while my brain s-l-o-w-l-y cranked into gear. She thought not at all. So there you have it. :)

I do know that we had to pause while recording several times. I had to check on various animals throughout the house and Boo (the cat) makes a jingly appearance that you will hear while we stalk patterns. At one point there is a banging coming from another room. While recording I didn't know what was going on, but post-recording I found Boo was opening some drawers in the bathroom, making mischief!

We hope you enjoy!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Walpole by Hannah Fettig
Sharlene's Walpole
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Gayle's Aniron

What are we stalking?
Miranda by Josée Paquin
Lempster by Norah Gaughan
Dylan's Beanie by Wooly Wornhead
Beans the Cat by Linda Dawkins
Estee Becklace and Earrings by Kristin Omdahl

What are we knitting?
Seamless Saloma Slippers by Megan Williams
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Thrummed Booties by Katie Startzman (pattern from The Knitted Slipper Book we reviewed in episode 48)
Audrey in Unst by Gudron Johnston
Hogwart's Express by Susan Ashcroft

What have we finished?
Halo hat 14
Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty
Sharlene's Alewives Cowl
Seamless Salomas Slippers by Megan Williams
Slippers 1, 2, 3, and 4

What are we swatching?
Sincere Sheep Equity Sport

Other mentions:
Nuzzle cowl by Kelly Brooker
Armonika cowl by Rustat Design

Episode 50 - Audio link

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Episode 50 - The Holidays are coming!

Oh, the holidays, they are a-coming! Here in the US, this week is busy. We are getting ready for our Thanksgiving holiday, there are school holidays to work around, and the general business of planning, family, and work. Gayle and I have been busy with all of the above and more. As I write this on Thanksgiving afternoon, Gayle and I have already chatted about how we are grateful and thankful for all of you, our wonderful friends, who have supported us and listened to us, and inspire us to keep knitting and keep recording. We really do appreciate you. :)

This week we record our regular segments, with the addition of our newest segment "What are we swatching?" We pay homage to past podcast guests Clara Parkes and Deb Robson, and in our own way attempt to learn more about new breeds and new-to-us yarns and share what we have learned. For some of you, this may be review, and if you have more to add to the discussion, please join us over in our Ravelry group. We welcome your views and discussion. 
- Sharlene    

What are we wearing?
5200K by Suvi Simola
Sharlene's 5200K
Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty
Gayle's Alewives Cowl

What are we stalking?
Ravelry's "Hot Right Now" list
Solstice Cardigan by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Ravelry's popular cowls list
Shasta Daisy Knits etsy shop

What are we knitting?
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Alewives Cowl by Elizabeth Doherty
Another hat
Audrey in Unst by Gudrun Johnston
Adiri Cowl by Julia Trice

What have we finished?
Barley hat by tincanknits
Sharlene's Barley
Renfrew hat by Jane Richmond
Sharlene's latest Renfrew
Sharlene's Halo hat (no pattern)
Autumn in Garrison by Kate Gagnon Osborn
Gayle's Autumn
Beaverslide Dry Goods
Ritzi by Katya Frankel

What are we swatching?
Elsawool
Sharlene's swatch: Woolen-Spun Sport Weight Cormo
Elsawool's woolen spun yarns

Review links
Head to Toe kids' knit accessories by Katya Frankel
Ravelry link for Head to Toe
This book is great in a couple of ways for this holiday season--the book itself is a great gift for a knitter, and the accessories featured will make great gifts as well.

Episode 49 - Time to knit some good!

I woke up this morning feeling fine, but by the time we recorded, I could feel a sore throat coming on. As I write this, I am hoping, hoping, hoping, that it doesn't get any worse and doesn't turn into a full blown cold. Or worse. Keep fingers and toes crossed for me.

As we gear up for the coming holiday season we introduce a holiday KAL with a short simple theme. Knit some good. Or crochet some good. Make something to donate. A hat, a scarf, a cowl, something else wonderful? There are many ways and many local charities that can benefit from hand-crafted items this time of year. Shelters may distribute items to people who need them, consider donating to an auction or charity store where the proceeds will go towards "good." You know the drill. If you can't find a local need, there are many national groups that will accept donations. We'll have some chat in our Ravelry group if you need more ideas.

If extra knitting doesn't fit into your busy schedule, consider purchasing patterns that send proceeds to a charity. Gayle and I recently heard Cat Bordhi speak about her latest project The Art of Felfs: Felted Footwear for Families. The proceeds from this e-book  are going directly to the cancer research lab of Dr. David Krag at the University of Vermont Medical School.

We will start a thread for the short KAL in our Ravelry group and hope you will join in to Knit or Crochet some good! Happy knitting everyone.
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Fuse by Veronik Avery
Sharlene's Fuse
Lipstick by Joji Locatelli
Gayle's Lipstick
Ondulation by Becky Herrick
Gayle's Ondulation

What are we stalking?
Hitofude Cardigan by Hiroko Fukatsu
Dragonflies Jumper by Joji Locatelli
Deep Breath Sweater by Kirstin Hipsky

What are we knitting?
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Barley hat by tincanknits
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Ritzy by Katya Frankel

What have we finished?
5200K by Suvi Simola
Sharlene's 5200K

Barry hat by Lee Meredith
Sharlene's Barry
Note: When I talk about knitting this hat, I mention that there is one seam to "knit" when you finish the hat. Of course, I meant one seam to "sew together." Oops!

Renfrew by Jane Richmond
Sharlene's second Renfrew
22 Little Clouds by Martina Behm
Sharlene's Little Clouds

Thrummed Booties by Katie Startzman
Gayle's Booties
Gnome is where the ♥ is by Susan Claudino
 Gayle's Gnome
Knotted Pine by Alicia Plummer

We review two books from Cooperative Press:
Hitch: Patterns Inspired by the Films of Alfred Hitchcock 
Cascadia
Both books contain patterns that would make wonderful gift items and both books themselves make wonderful gift items for a lucky knitter on your list.

We review two yarns from The Knitting Boutique:
Severn and Susquehanna
Both of these yarns would make wonderful gift items.

We review a new knitting row counter from Grellow & Gray Inc.
called the Sirka Counter.
If you are a knitter who likes gadgets and tools, are a knitter  who counts rows and pattern repeats or you know a knitter who fits either of these categories this is fun new gift item.

Episode 48 - The new normal

Gayle and I were SO happy to be recording a "regular" episode. We were grinning from ear to ear. It bears repeating that we love knitting, making things, and sharing our yarnie adventures with you!

We have received a number of items for review, and unfortunately because of the interviews and our pre-recorded episodes, we've fallen a bit behind. So, we'll share some reviews with you about a couple of items this episode. We are nearing the holiday gift season and it only makes sense to share as many new items with you as possible. Whether you are a gift-giver or not, there may be items or books that will fill a special need during the fall and winter seasons.

Thanks so much to everyone for your wonderful comments on our wool series. It is continuing education, and as Gayle and I learn and encounter new things, we will share our adventures with you. In homage to our podcast guests Deb Robson and Clara Parkes, we will be occasionally adding a new segment to our repertoire. In "What are we swatching?" we will share a new yarn or wool that has caught our attention. We will start that soon. We may have one more guest to add to the series, and hope to finalize that this week. In the meantime if you have wooly questions or observations, please visit the thread on Ravelry and join the discussion.
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Aniron by Luise O'Neill

What are we stalking?
22 Little Clouds by Martina Behm
Hogwart's Express by Susan Ashcroft
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Bring Me Flowers by Mia Rinde
Hitofude Cardigan by Hiroko Fukatsu
50 Yards of Fun: Knitting Toys from Scrap Yarn

What are we knitting?
5200K by Suvi Simola
Lipstick by Joji Locatelli
Ondulation by Becky Herrick
Gayle's legwarmers

What have we finished?
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Sharlene's Askew
Afternoon Tea by Helen Stewart
Sharlene's Green Tea
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Imagine
Grace by Jane Richmond
Sharlene's Grace
Nanook by Heidi Kirrmaier
Honey Cowl from madelinetosh
Renfrew by Jane Richmond
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Kirk Ave Tam by Elinor Hickey

Reviews
Knit Notes Journal
The Knitted Slipper Book: Slippers and House Shoes for the Entire Family
Video preview for The Knitted Slipper Book
A Good Yarn Sarasota's custom madelinetosh color: Midnight Pass

Episode 47 - Clara Parkes

Photo credit: Knitter's Review

In this episode we chat with Clara Parkes, who shares a little bit about the Knitter's Review, her books, and her Great White Bale project. There was a lot of info to fit into our usual time, Clara is an amazing source of wooly information.  I am sure we didn't touch on everything everyone is interested in and some of our discussion may leave you with more questions. If so, join into the discussion on our Ravelry group. Maybe someone else can help or point you towards more resources!

Thank-you for listening and we hope you enjoy the chat!
-Sharlene

Clara's Knitter's Review website
The Knitter's Book of Yarn
The Knitter's Book of Wool
The Knitter's Book of Socks
The Yarn Whisperer

What are we knitting?
Wintry Mix by Amy Herzog
Sea Anemone kitchen scrubbie
Hogwarts Express by Susan Ashcroft

What are we stalking?
Lipstick by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Lipstick
Nanook by Heidi Kirrmaier
Window to My Soul by Joji Locatelli
Pumpkin Ale by Ysolda Teague

Clara's swatching process 

The Great White Bale
Catskill Merino Sheep Farm



Episode audio link here

From Gayle: Last evening in Marrakesh

We went to the wool part of the souk today!

 Drying wool.

 Powdered dyes.

 All natural pigments.

 Dye pot.

 Wool drying from above.

 Undyed.

Episode 46 - We are a bit early!

We are a few days early with Episode 46. Gayle will be traveling for the next week and a half and the easiest thing to do was record and get the episode out there. Because we had recorded the interview with Deb Robson early, we both felt a need to chat about our current knits before another episode flew by. So we play a bit of the catch-up game, sharing what we have been knitting and stalking, and hope to be knitting and stalking. We must have been out of form, because post recording we both realized we left a couple items out. More knits for a future episode then. :)

Gayle will be traveling and our next episode will feature Clara Parkes and more about wool. We are having lots of discussion in our Ravelry group. Please feel welcome to come on over and join us!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Transverse Cardigan by Ann Weaver
Sharlene's Transverse
Marion by Andi Satterlund
Gayle's Marion

What are we stalking?
Nymphalidea by Melinda Vermeer
Cat's Mane by Mer Almagro
Lipstick by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Lipstick
Charlotte Capelet by Usch Engelmann

What are we knitting?
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Meadow yarn by The Fibre Company
Nanook by Heidi Kirrmaier
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Hogwarts Express by Susan Ashcroft

What have we finished?
Lipstick by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Lipstick
Antarktis by Kalio Knits
Easy Folded Poncho by Churchmouse Yarns
Gayle's Poncho

The Fall Colors KAL is ended and we talk prizes. :) If you have won a prize, please contact Sharlene via a pm on Ravelry and we will get your prize to you asap. Unclaimed prizes will go back into the prize pool at the end of the year!

Deb Robson's Shetland project links:
Dreaming of Shetland
Dreaming of Shetland's Ravelry link

Episode 45 - Deb Robson

Photo by Kristi Schueler

We hope you will enjoy listening to this chat with Deb Robson as much as we enjoyed recording it. Gayle and I have been doing a lot of research, and we were still nervous to talk to Deb. This woman is a font of information! She has so much specialized knowledge and is so eager to share it and we have so much to learn. :)

I've included a couple of links below to specific topics, projects or books that we discussed. But there is so much more! If you visit Deb's blog, poke around in the topics listed on the lower right side and read some of her older posts as well. The posts are tagged well so you can find specific information quickly.

Deb's Dreaming of Shetland project is her current baby. The Ravelry link is here. You can see the patterns included in the book.

If you are a knitter, crocheter, weaver, spinner, or crafter who uses and loves wool, consider learning more about the origins of the materials you use and love. I know, sometimes it is all I can handle to figure out my yarn substitution! But as crafters, this is part of our world too. We have the chance to learn, to teach, and widen our horizons a little bit. And yes, the sheep are cute. So I hope you will follow Gayle and I along on our Wool Series!
- Sharlene

Deb Robson's Craftsy class
The Field Guide to Fleece
The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook
Deb's blog: The Independent Stitch

Sweet Oak Hooded Cardigan by Megan Goodacre
Jamieson and Smith Shetland Wool
Jamieson's yarns
Deb's Dreaming of Shetland project

Ply Magazine - Deb's article that she references appears in the Summer 2013 issue

Rare wools

Sheep: Suffolk
Sheep: Corriedale

The Livestock Conservancy
Rare Breeds Survival Trust sheep watchlist

Deb recommends Pennyroyal and mint as moth repellents :)

Episode audio link here.

Episode 44 - The one with the dolphins

Last episode crows, this episode dolphins. Welcome to Santa Cruz. We recorded this episode at the coast with the sound of the waves in the background. We hope this is as pleasant for you as it was for us. It had been a warm day and sitting at the beach recording was a wonderful way for our day to close. You will hear us sighting some of the following locals. :)

Western gull
Pacific white-sided dolphin
California sea lion
Pacific sardine

No, we didn't actually see sardines from our vantage point, but found out later the presence of the sardines off the coast had attracted a lot of activity in the bay.

What are we wearing?
Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Sharlene's Buttercup

What are we stalking?
Chevzam by Alexandra Tinsley
Hetty by Andi Satterlund
Renfrew hat from Jane Richmond
Susan Ashcroft shawls
TGV
Little Waffles
Big Waffle
Bring Me Flowers by Mia Rinde

Duck Duck Wool

What are we knitting?
Grace by Jane Richmond, from the Island Collection

Kirk Ave Tam by Elinor Hickey

Bumble Beret by Elizabeth Doherty

Following are some links for Craftsy. We are a Craftsy affiliate and will earn a few pennies towards our podcasting expenses if you either join Craftsy or sign up for a class. Thank-you for using our links!

Deb Robson's free Craftsy class

Episode 44 audio link

Episode 43 - The one with the crows

As the end of August draws near, Gayle and I record on one of our typical seasonal foggy afternoons.  The start of the new school year approaches and I have already seen both Halloween and winter decorations for sale in the stores. There is still a month left until the autumnal solstice, giving us a few precious weeks to finish and photograph our KAL entries. The discussion on fall colors and how to wear our hand knits has been so fun and thought provoking. I look forward to seeing all the fall looks, hoping to freshen up my own appearance using all the great ideas. If you haven't done so already, stop by our Yarniacs Podcast group on Ravelry and join in the chat.

Gayle and I recorded this episode at a local park, so there are some crows in the background, and a car or two zooming by. It isn't too distracting, and I hope you will enjoy.
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Yogini Bolero by Wendy Bernard
Sharlene's Yogini

What are we stalking?
Vignette by Amy Herzog
Grace by Jane Richmond
Bravura by Tracy Purtscher, as shown on The Fiber Factor
(Bravura pattern not available as of this episode release, but should be available in future)
Casual Lace cardigan by Justyna Lorkowska
Cromarty by Heather Dixon
Gnome is where the ♥ is by Susan Claudino

What are we knitting?
Afternoon Tea by Helen Stewart
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Altostratus by Lisa Mutch
Bumble Beret by Elizabeth Doherty
CustomFit by Amy Herzog
Easy Folded Poncho from Churchmouse Yarns and Tea

What have we finished?
Sharlene's Zip cardigan, designed with CustomFit software from Amy Herzog
Zephyr Cove by Rosemary Hill

Book review
More Modern Top-Down Knitting: 24 Garments Based on Barbara G. Walker's 12 Top-Down Templates by Kristina McGowan from Stewart, Tabori and Chang

Episode 42 - Fall is coming

This episode finds us back in our usual recording spot (my dining table) after recording "in the field" for the past two episodes. We are definitely back in our groove, post-analysis paralysis. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing since for both of us, analysis paralysis seems to yield lots of knit hats for charity! In my case, being trapped in a yarn store adds to the donation pile as well!

Lots of project talk, color talk, and new patterns to check out. Fall--not winter--is coming, and we want to be prepared with the colors and styles of Fall!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Sharlene's February Lady
Summer Dawn by Andrea Black
Gayle's Summer Dawn

What are we stalking?
Boxy and Buttony by Joji Locatelli
Window to my soul by Joji Locatelli
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Obsidian by Lisa Mutch

What are we knitting?
Afternoon Tea by Helen Stewart
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Altostratus by Lisa Mutch
Amy Herzog CustomFit sweater
Gayle's Stripey mitts 
Easy Folded Poncho by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas

What have we finished?
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Boxy
Brattleboro Hat by Melissa LeBarre
Sharlene's modified Brattleboro
Sharlene second modified Brattleboro
Sharlene's "Trapped in a yarn store" hat
Dance All Night Slouch Socks by Erica Jackofsky
Gayle's Slouch Socks
Seamless Salomas Slippers by Megan Williams
Gayle's Salomas Slippers
Oak Trail by Alana Dakos
Nozky by Monika Sirna
Gayle's legwarmers
Julissa by Vanessa Smith
Gayle's Julissa

Trapped in a yarn store?

The subtitle to this post should be "Fantasy or nightmare?" In general, being trapped in a yarn store would be an enjoyable experience. I can't leave? Oh, darn, let's just feel the fiber. But when trapped inside with a customer who hadn't intended to spend quite that much time and a FedEx delivery guy who cannot stand still, one does start to wonder if the hidden camera person is going to pop out of the classroom. Seriously, a FedEx guy? Oh, the comedic possibilities! The guy came in with one small box, not even yarn-filled, turned to leave and couldn't get the door open.

"Um, does your door stick?" he asked after repeated handle rattlings and some pushing and pulling. No, our door doesn't stick. Not like that, with such purpose and finality. It wouldn't even rattle within the door frame. When it became obvious that the door was definitely not going to open, the aforementioned customer called her husband who was at the bakery having a coffee. We also managed to flag down our regular UPS driver and sent him to fetch the landlord.

Long story short, someone did manage to get the door out of the frame to release the customer, the FedEx guy having jumped out the window. (Note: The store is firmly first-floor grounded.) The door latch had broken in the closed position, not to be released by mere handle rattling. Fortunately, one of our regular knitters Carol was there to keep me company and lend a calming presence. But I would seriously love to hear the story FedEx guy told once he got back to the station. "I was trapped in a yarn store and the door wouldn't open!" Sure you were buddy, sure you were...
- Sharlene

Beta testing: Measurements

You may have heard Gayle and I mention that we are beta testing software for Amy Herzog called CustomFit. I have been looking forward to this since we contacted Amy, have knit my swatch and tentatively tried generating my first pattern. The hard part prior to the pattern generation is taking one's own measurements. Fortunately my partner in crime Gayle is ever at the ready and together we tackled this task. Even with instructions, taking measurements is hard! Why? I think the answer to that lies with the garment industry's one-size-fits-most approach to garments. We are used to being served with minimal choices. Women don't generally shop with measurements in mind, and the average shopper probably can't tell you her measurements beyond her bra size. (And don't get me started on that, since the media would have us believe that we are all walking around wearing ill-fitting bras.)

So, challenge accepted. Measurements taken. I am not sure they are 100% correct, but they can be tweaked further along in the process. Fingers crossed for a good fit!

Episode 41 - Lazy days of summer

For some reason this is a particularly low-key episode. It was a hot day while recording, and I had been a bit under the weather health-wise the past week and though there is a lot of knitting, we are both a little low-energy.

Technical difficulties? If you have had difficulties reaching a few of the older episodes this week, those should be resolved now. We were booted off of our hosting service for using too much bandwidth! No, I don't understand because, well... isn't that what a hosting service is supposed to do? But we are moving on, our files have been moved, and the transition should be seamless to users. If you experience any difficulties, please let us know what episode you are trying to access so that we can make sure all the file transfers function as they should.

What are we wearing?
Low Tide Cardigan by tincanknits
Sharlene's Low Tide
Marion cardigan by Andi Satterlund
Gayle's Marion

What are we stalking?
Ginny's Cardigan by Mari Chiba
Army of Caterpillars by Miranda Harp
Nanook by Heidi Kirrmaier
Buttony and Boxy by Joji Locatelli (pattern not available yet, but you can see Joji's project page here)
Black Mamba by Rachel Frank
Angry Sheep Cardigan by The Needle Lady

What are you knitting?
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's project page on Ravelry
Afternoon Tea Shawl by Helen Stewart
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Julissa by Vanessa Smith
Boxy and Buttony by Joji Locatelli
Nozky legwarmers by Monica Sirna
Easy Folded Poncho by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas

What have we finished?
Sharlene is swatching for Amy Herzog's CustomFit
Wild Cherry by Melissa Goodale
Gayle's Wild Cherry
Booga Bag by Julie Anderson
Gayle's Booga Bag

Book reviews
History on Two Needles by Annie Modesitt
What (else) Would Madame Defarge Knit? edited by Heather Ordover

Book reviews for Cooperative Press

Gayle and I chat a bit about both of these books in Episode 41, but we usually have much more to say than we can fit into the podcast. :)
- Sharlene

What (else) Would Madame Defarge Knit? Edited by Heather Ordover

This is the second offering in the Madame Defarge series, with knitting patterns based on "classic characters." If you listen to Heather's podcast CraftLit, you are already familiar with her podcast formula sharing a little bit of crafting chat and a little bit of book chat followed by a chapter or two of the current book selection. Knitters, myself included, look forward to knitting time spent with earbuds in place, listening to the current installment of Heather's classic selections.

The Madame Defarge series brings us knitting patterns and essays based on several "classic characters." If you have a favorite classic among those featured in this book, you might find extra inspiration to create one of the patterns while rereading or listening to an old friend. Having spent many past summers reading and rereading Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables series I felt that Marilla's Shawl was an old friend and certainly something that the ever-practical Marilla would have thrown over her shoulders while sitting on the porch with Matthew. But if you aren't familiar with the literature that has inspired, you will still find the twenty-eight patterns for shawls, mitts, socks, and other accessories fun to browse. The essays by the pattern designers will give you insight into a significant character or theme from the classic novel that inspired the piece, and may in turn inspire you to read something new or to reread a forgotten favorite.

History on Two Needles by Annie Modesitt

History on Two Needles looks backward in art history to find inspiration. There are patterns here that will work for Renaissance Fair wear to pieces that will fit into a contemporary wardrobe. For each of the seventeen patterns found here, the artwork that influenced the design is pictured. Most of the designs are knitted recreations of the original garment, one exception being the Woodstock Tunic featuring a textured sweater design that is "quartered to reflect the elements of Edward's shield." I think it will be interesting to watch the Ravelry project pages for these pieces and see how knitters mix and match pieces into their contemporary wardrobes.

We reviewed electronic versions of both books and in both cases, I would like to have seen a photo index of the patterns. It is easy to thumb through the pages of a book to quickly find a specific photo or design, but not so easy to do this with an electronic file. This added functionality would be a welcome resource. To view all the patterns in each book before preparing my review, I found it easier to look at the each book's Ravelry entry to see all the pattern images in one place.

If you enjoy classic literature, or art history, or just aspire to these interests, both books are worth taking a look. These books remind us that as knitters and crafters, we can look for inspiration in many other areas of our lives. We are reminded to look back, and to look into history and literature for something new for our contemporary wardrobes.

Episode 40 - Best Laid Plans

The original title of this episode was going to be "Road Trip" for reasons which will become apparent once you listen. But even the best of plans have a way of falling apart sometimes, don't they? Thwarted by the heat of the 100 degree day, our plans to record while visiting yarn stores went out the window, and the secondary plan to finish recording once we returned to the bay and its cooling breezes flew out the other window after Gayle got the "come rescue us!" phone call from her stranded husband. So. Best laid plans. We call it a wrap almost 48 hours later and give you a little recap. Hope it doesn't come across too disjointed!

Gayle and I are excited to share two special things with you. First, we are going to be beta testers for Amy Herzog's new CustomFit software. (See links below.) Second, we have decided on a KAL based on the Pantone colors for Fall 2013. Details on the podcast and to follow in our Ravelry group.
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Current by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sharlene's Current
Colors of Kauai by Hanna Maciejewska

What are we stalking?
Amy Herzog's blog
Amy's Fit to Flatter mission here
Amy's CustomFit announcement here
February Fitted Pullover by Amy Herzog
Julissa by Vanessa Smith
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Afterlight by Amy Herzog

What are we knitting?
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Low Tide Cardigan by tincanknits
Outlast textiles information
Booga Bag by Julie Anderston
Wild Cherry Shawl by Melissa Goodale
Bumble Beret by Elizabeth Doherty

KAL links
Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2013
Think about how you will wear your new garment made using one of the Fall 2013 colors. Photograph it with a complete Fall look.

Audio link here.

Episode 39 - June Gloom

In Episode 39,  June Gloom hits in a couple of ways. First we have an unusual June rain storm, bringing us more rain than we had in January of this year! Second, with all of the end-of-the-school year activities, birthdays, and events, neither of us have been able to focus on casting on a larger project. We are still knitting, just focusing on hats and shawls. We both are on the verge of some larger projects, but just haven't jumped in yet. At one point we mention hearing a door squeaking. Never fear, there aren't spooks haunting the Yarniac recording studio, just kids home for summer vacation opening doors veeery slowly. Welcome summer!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Transverse Cardigan by Ann Weaver
Sharlene's Transverse
Gathered Cardi by Cathy Carron
Gayle's Gathered Cardi

What are we stalking?
Brennan Cardi by Julia Trice
Antiguo by Gudrun Johnston
Nozky by Monika Sirna

What are we knitting?
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Afternoon Tea shawl by Helen Stewart
Low-Tide Cardigan by Tincanknits
Ka'ana Shawlette by Jennifer Weissman
AfterThought Heel Socks by Laura Linneman

What have we finished?
Sharlene's crochet Sea Anemone scrubbies
Sharlene's no-pattern hat
Pendulum shawl by Amy Miller
Cabled Baby Hats by Julia Hentz
Hermione Hearts Ron by Christy Aylesworth
Swirl Hat by Mandie Harrington
Hurricane Hat by Andrea Goutier
Rainbow Ridge Beanie by Allison Britt
Pillsbury hat Erin Birnel
Op Top hat by Alexis Winslow

Also discussed:
20 minute Yoga Sessions on iTunes
or via the website

Episode 38 - Catching up on the FOs

After a month of special guests, the Yarniacs are flying solo again and catching up on all their finished objects. There is much stalking going on as both Gayle and Sharlene are looking to start new projects. It feels a bit like "school's out for the summer" around here as we discuss shawls, knit summer tops, and cardigan options for our empty needles.

What are we wearing?
Sev[en] Circle by Kirstin Johnstone
Colors of Kauai by Hanna Maciejewska
Rose Red by Ysolda Teague

What are we stalking?
Marion by Andi Satterlund
Vanadium by Lisa Mutch
Askew by Lisa Mutch
Low Tide Cardigan by tincanknits
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Easy Folded Poncho by Churchmouse Yarns and Teas
(Gayle mistakenly says Church house--whoops!)
Wild Cherry by Melissa Goodale
Queen of the Underworld by Magdalena Kubatek

What are we knitting?
 Pendulum by Amy Miller

What have we finished?
Mason Jar Cozy
In the Moment by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's In the Moment
Gayle's In the Moment
Gemini by Jane Richmond
Flanders Scarf by Janine Le Cras
Gayle's Flanders Scarf
Ivy Trellis Hat by Alana Dakos
Gayle's Ivy Trellis Hat
Zuzu's Petals by Carina Spencer
Gayle's Zuzu's Petals 2
Neon by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Neon
Gilet Valerie by Carole Francone
Gayle's Gilet

Pantone Color Trends Spring 2013
Pantone Color Trends Fall 2013
Pantone Color of the Year 2012
Pantone Color of the Year 2011
Pantone Color of the Year 2010

Episode 37 - Karida Collins of Neighborhood Fiber Co.

This episode, we welcome Karida Collins, owner and dyer/artist of Neighborhood Fiber Co. Karida joins us for our regular segments and more discussion about hand-dyed yarns, how to work with them, and how to manage our own expectations as consumers of hand-dyed yarns. Karida is on the east coast, and we are on the west, so we recorded via Skype. There are a few areas where the audio cuts out a bit due to internet connectivity issues, but for the most part, it came out pretty clear. We really enjoyed chatting with Karida and we hope you will too.

What are we knitting?
Kelp Forest by Yumico Alexander
Neon by Joji Locatelli
Pendulum by Amy Miller
Colors of Kauai by Hanna Maciejewska

What are we stalking?
Moonrise Shawl by Olga Buraya-Kefelian
Neighborhood Fiber Co. colors
Traffic Furniture by Ann Weaver
Ivy Trellis Hat by Alana Dakos
Pillsbury by Erin Birnel
Weather the Weather by Megan Williams

Also mentioned:
Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef
Cephalapod Yarns
Dragonfly Fibers

Episode 36 - Kim Voldseth of Western Sky Knits

Today we welcome a special guest to our podcast, Kim Voldseth. Kim, along with Heather Cabanas, together market their yarn as Western Sky Knits. If you've listened to the podcast since Stitches West 2012, you may remember that is when we first met Kim and Heather and their brightly dyed skeins. We've become fans and hope you will enjoy our chat.

What are we stalking?
Nested by AliciaPlum
Toujours by Joji Locatelli
Julissa by Vanessa Smith
Cape Cod by Baby Cocktails
Afterlight by Amy Herzog
Askew by Lisa Mutch

What are we knitting?
Balmy by Alicia Plummer
Basic Sock Pattern by Ann Budd
Barnwood Hat by Alicia Plumer
Neon by Joji Locatelli
Summer Dawn by Andrea Black

Visit Western Sky Knits here.
Kim's Etsy shop.
Heather's Etsy shop.

Episode 35

It's been our usual two week break between episodes, but for both of us it has been a long two weeks apparently! We both come to the microphone feeling like a month has gone by. No matter, we jump right in and get to our usual segments this episode. We hope you enjoy!

What are we wearing?
Coraline by Ysolda Teague
Gayle's Coraline
Sharlene was representing the Golden State Warriors!

What are we stalking?
Aislinn by Amy Herzog
Toujours by Joji Locatelli
Window to My Soul by Joji Locatelli

What are we knitting?
In the Moment by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Moment
Gayle's Moment
Neon by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Neon

Gilet Valèrie by Carole Francone 

Gayle's Mon Gilet

Summer Dawn by Andrea Black

What have we finished?

Dinner in the Eiffel Tower Shawl by Jessie Dodington

Sharlene's Tower Shawl

Rainbow Ridge Beanie by Allison Britt

Sharlene's Rainbow Beanie

Walpole by Hannah Fettig

Sharlene's Walpole

No pattern Mason jar cozies #1, #2, and #3

Sola by Julia Trice

Gayle's Springy Sola

A Book Review

Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs: Creative Techniques for Joining Motifs of All Shapes by Edie Eckman

A book review: Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs

In episode 35, we reviewed the wonderful book Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs by Edie Eckman, published by Storey Publishing. Please go give it a listen! (audio file link)

Two years ago, Sharlene took a crochet class from Edie at the January TNNA show in Long Beach. (I mistakenly say June in the podcast review.) Edie was a patient, knowledgeable, and fun teacher. I recommend taking a class from her if you ever get the chance. Bring your crochet questions!

We both think this book will be great for all crochet skill levels. There is enough information here to get you started if you have never crocheted before, but also enough to keep you interested as you learn, or are coming to the book to learn motifs but already have basic crochet knowledge.

On first glance, the feature you notice about this book is the spiral binding and the quality of the cover. The spiral binding enables the book to lie flat while you are working from the pages.

The "Get started" section includes charts, how to read charts, weaving in ends, how to arrange the shapes, choosing colors and yarns, and how to work with variegated yarns.

"Get it together" discusses joining motifs as you finish, joining as you go, continuous motifs, edges and finishing.

The third section contains 101 patterns for different motifs. The photography is excellent. Each motif includes written out instructions, the motif charted out, and a photograph in the same orientation as the chart. If you know how to follow either written crochet instructions or graphed/charted crochet instructions but want to learn the other way of reading patterns, this book is optimal for following both written and charted instructions so you can compare one instruction to the other and learn as you go.

The inside back cover has a stitch key showing each chart symbol used in the book and what they mean. If you have ever looked at Japanese or other international crochet patterns that only include charted instructions, this is a great way to teach yourself to read these charts.

There is a photographic index of each motif located in the back of the book. You can mix and match motifs for projects easily seeing all the available choices at once.

Eleven patterns are included in the book for a place mat, shawl, afghans, a pillow, garland, pin cushion, vest, skirt, and a lampshade.

The Yarniacs give this publication two hooks up!

Amazon link here. 

Devin Wristlet by Namaste Inc.

 

We received an eggplant Devin Wristlet from Namaste Inc. for review. You can listen to the audio review at the end of Episode 34, or you can read my review here. I have been using Namaste products for a while, and was thrilled to give the Devin a test drive.

The first feature immediately noticeable is the beautiful color. I am a purple girl, so I chose the eggplant, but there are lots of colors to satisfy your changing moods. The PVC-free vegan faux leather is slightly textured, and doesn't have a plastic feel to it in my humble opinion. All the top-stitching was finished perfectly, without any loose stitches or threads.

Inside the Devin Wristlet, there are two main compartments, separated by a large zippered security pocket. One side of the bag hosts credit card or business card sized slots and a smaller zippered security pocket. The other side has two slot pockets sized for an iPod and/or phone.

The interior fabric is gray PET microsuede which is made from recycled plastic bottles. It feels soft to the touch and has worn well on the Namaste bag that I have been using for a few months. The gray color is an attractive neutral and useful too, as I do not care for either dark or printed bag interiors, both of which make it difficult for me to see the contents of my bag. Again, the top-stitching was all finished perfectly, with no loose stitches or threads.

All three of the zippers functioned perfectly without any stickiness or loose zipper teeth. The big color-coordinated zipper that closes the bag has a nice-sized ring that you can grab easily. I found that occasionally the ring slips inside the bag and I would just poke my finger into the bag to push the zipper open without using the pull ring.

I noticed the middle security pocket is lined with a different fabric, something that seems a little more dirt resistant than the microsuede. I am guessing that this pocket would probably stand up to spot cleaning and is intended for (sometimes dirty) paper money and coins.

I think I will be using my Devin as a smaller bag to put inside of a tote when I need to carry several items like a knitting project, water bottle, etc. The Devin is the perfect size to carry in to the store or when running errands. Gayle also notes it is roomy enough to put your sunglasses in as well, making it the perfect grab-and-shop size, safely keeping credit cards, money, phone, and sunglasses in one spot.

The wrist strap is easily removable and you can always clip your keys on the external ring as well.

Overall, it is a great little bag that both of us find to be very functional, as well as pretty! Yarniac approved! :)

- Sharlene