Episode 78 - Happy New Year!

It is hard to believe, but the solstice is here, and though winter has only just arrived, the days will be getting longer once again as we move towards the spring. Oddly, our first few days of winter on the coast were marked by a return to sunshine, blue skies, and temps in the mid-60s.

What will you be knitting for the Self-Indulgent Knit-a-long? The Self-Indulgent KAL is your opportunity to knit something fun, whether for yourself or someone else. Knit something that will make you happy, whether the pleasure is derived from the finished object, the lovely yarn you are using, or simply the process of creating. Discuss all the possibilities here in our Ravelry group, and share your photos or comments in Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #sikal2015. 

What are we wearing?

Cupido Cowl by Hiroko Fukatsu

Sharlene's Cupido

Laneway by Veera Valimaki

Gayle's Laneway

What are we stalking?

Insouciant Fibers 100% Jacob

Traveller Tunic by Joji Locatelli

Angry Sheep Cardigan by Pinneguri

Better Breton by Yelena Dasher

Starshower by Hilary Smith Callis

What are we knitting?

Burdock Cardigan by Maura Kirk

Alcea Cowl by Hannah Maier

Yowza Weigh It Shawl by Susan B. Anderson

Gayle's sweater for her dad

What have we finished?

Redox Boot Cuffs by Elizabeth Doherty

Mini Christmas Stocking Ornaments by Julie Williams

Episode 78 audio

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Craftsy sale! through Thursday, December 25, 2014

Hi everyone! Craftsy is having a Best of 2014 SALE! All classes are discounted to $19.99 or less. So if there is something you want to learn, take advantage of the sale now. Remember, your classes will be there for you after the holiday season. What a nice way to treat yourself. :) If you are going to take a class, please consider signing up for Craftsy and signing up for your classes through our Yarniacs link here or click on the banner below. The podcast will earn a few pennies per sign-up, so it is a great way to help contribute to the podcast. Thanks!

Episode 77 - Podcast/shmodcast!

This week we bring you our usual segments, some prizes to share, and a link to a funny internet game show that includes the Yarniacs. Gayle and I were quite tickled upon listening to this feature and hope you will get a laugh out of it too. The fact that there were groans and possible Yarniacs in the audience just makes us smile! (See warning below! While the website page is family friendly, the audio linked from the page is not.) The days are getting darker, the weather getting cooler and possibly wetter. I hope you manage to fit some calming knitting time into your busy end-of-the-year schedules. Enjoy!

What are we wearing?

Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli

Sharlene's Magnolia

Ease by Alicia Plummer

Gayle's Ease

Western Sky Knits Willow worsted

What are we stalking?

Seacoast by Joji Locatelli

Veera Valimaki's Advent Calendar 2014 on her blog
Windbreak by Jenise Reid
Idlewood by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Mini Christmas Stocking Ornaments by Julie Williams
Aniron by Luise O'Neill
Laneway by Veera Valimaki
Sunburst Shirt Dress by Anna Cohen

What are we knitting?
Burdock Cardigan by Maura Kirk
Sharlene's Neighborhood Fiber Company worsted
Alcea Cowl by Hannah Maier
Yowza Weigh It Shawl by Susan B. Anderson
a hint of summer by Isabell Kraemer

What have we finished?
Sharlene's stockinette socks
Dream in Color Everlasting Sock
Honey Cowl by Antonia Shankland
Sharlene's Easy Cowl
Headland by Elizabeth Doherty
Sharlene's Headland
Skiff (hat) by Jared Flood
Snowball Buddies by Susan Claudino
Gayle's Snowball Buddies
Warm Wishes Hottie Cover by Helen Stewart

Podcast/Shmodcast! Live Wire! Radio
This link goes to the podcast page where you can see the podcast/shmodcast game. There is a link to the audio from this page.
***Beware that the audio link is not family friendly!***

Episode 77 audio

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Episode 76 - Happy Thanksgiving

Thankgiving is upon us, the "official" start of the holiday season. For some, this means a lengthened "to do" list--more responsibilities, more tasks, more shopping, more events, and more stress. Some of us add gift-knitting or crafting to the list as well. Whether you are one of those knitters or not, remember to take the time to enjoy this season, to smile and laugh, and to make your knitting and crafting time a place of contentment and relaxation. Happy knitting!

What are we wearing?
Headlands test knit
Gayle's Idlewood
Idlewood by Cecily Glowik MacDonald

What are we stalking?
Woodfords by Elizabeth Doherty
Warm Wishes Hottie Cover by Helen Stewart
Willow Creek by Justyna Lorkowska
Ellery by Jenn Emerson

What are we knitting?
Simple socks
swatching with Neighborhood Fiber Company studio worsted
Skiff (hat) by Jared Flood
Gilliatt by De Rerum Natura (yarn)
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Snowball Buddies by Susan Claudino

What have we finished?
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Magnolia
Fuego Hat by Justyna Lowkowska
Mochimochi Snowmen by Anna Hrachovec
Monstermitts by Julia Allen
Gayle's mitts
Crochet Penguin Hat by Sarah Zimmerman
Gayle's Penguin hat

Pattern giveaway!
In the spirit of the season, we are giving away a few electronic versions of patterns that have been donated by some wonderful designers. First, we have the  Knitvent 2014 series from Helen Stewart. You can enter to win in our Ravelry group here. If you would like to purchase the series now, Helen has generously offered a coupon code for Yarniacs listeners. Use code: yarniacs25 for a discount through the end of November.

Brenda Castiel has generously offered your choice of her self-published patterns, as well as discount code: PODCAST for 25% off of her self-published patterns through December 31, 2014.

We also have the Aila Grace shawl from  Jennifer Lasonde, and the Lady Lallybrock mitts from Laura Ballard.  May the odds be ever in your favor! :)

Episode 76 audio

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Episode 75 - Hitting a snag

I call this time of year "the slippery slope." Once Halloween is over, there is unabashed Christmas and winter holiday advertising in stores and in the media. Yes, I know there is some advertising before Halloween, but before Halloween they try to sneak it to us, as if really ashamed to be doing it, but just can't help themselves. Post Halloween we get the real deal snowmen and elves and wrapped packages galore. Most folks I know try to resist it for a few more weeks, but as any parent of school age kids knows, this is indeed the slippery slope to the winter holidays. Like it or not, plans need to be made, shopping for necessities becomes unbearably crowded, and everyone's life seems to be busier than usual. I always wonder who are these people filling up the grocery store and don't they shop for food the rest of the year?

Despite the slippery slope, in episode 75 Gayle and I get back to basics with our regular segments and a short discussion about snags and repair in your knitted garments. If you have a good resource or a great repair technique, please share the link or info in our Ravlery group. We'd love to hear from you!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?

Nanook by Heidi Kirrmeier
Monomania by Ann Weaver

What are we stalking?
Sous Sous by Norah Goughn
Definitely Susan by Josee Paquin
cowls by Hilary Smith Callis
Skiff by Jared Flood
Indie gift-a-long on Ravelry
Fuego by Justyna Lorkowska

What are we knitting? 
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
Fickle Heart by Justyna Lowkowska
Yowza Weigh It Shawl by Susan B. Anderson
Monstermitts by Julia Allen
Ease by Alicia Plummer

What have we finished?
Sharlene's test knit for Elizabeth Doherty (pattern to be released soon)
Sharlene's stockinette socks
Cupido Cowl by Hiroko Fukatsu
Sharlene's Cupido
Raveling Rose yarns
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
Monomania by Ann Weaver
Gayle's Monomania

Discussion on snags and repair

Snags

- using a tapestry needle or a dpn to "ease" snagged yarn back into place

http://www.marthastewart.com/307188/how-to-fix-a-snagged-thread-in-a-sweater

- knot the snag inside the sweater

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWGtvznk11s

 Holes (one strand broken)

- weaving in new yarn in place of broken strand (duplicate stitch)

Holes (multiple broken stands)

- weave in several strands if enough of a foundation left to duplicate stitch

- woven patch

http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/daily/archive/2010/04/07/darn-there-s-a-hole-in-my-sock.aspx

- sew closed

http://ladyott.com/2012/04/18/how-to-mend-holes-in-woolens/
- many help videos on YouTube

Sock darning

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPBSmDN3b24

(video on darning socks from Knitpicks)

http://cookiea.com/news/2012/07/repairing-socks/

(blog tutorial from sock designer CookieA

Your type of repair will change depending on the garment or item and the location of the repair. (For example, is the hole or damaged area located on a highly visible area of the piece?)

Episode 75 audio

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Episode 74 - Happy Halloween with a side of PSA

As I sit down with show notes on this day of spooks and treats it is starting to rain a bit. If you have been listening to the podcast or hearing the news about the extreme drought we have in California, this is mixed tidings, as we need the rain, but it is also the evening of trick-or-treating. My guess is that the rain will have packed up and moved on by the time the small ghouls and goblins are out--rain rarely lasts long here--but that remains to be seen.

I mention Halloween because I happen to own the quintessential Halloween advertising animal, a black cat. When we adopted Boo, we were told by the shelter staff that black cats and dogs are the least adopted color at most animal shelters. Boo was the last adopted kitten from his litter, also the only all-black kitten in the litter. Folks want cats with some color or markings we were told. Previous to our Boo adoption, I had no clue about this color bias, but some internet sleuthing revealed that it is indeed a fact. So, if you are ever in the position to adopt a shelter animal, that is one tiny fact to keep in mind. Consider it a friendly PSA (public service announcement) for black cats and dogs. :)

If you have some ideas for quick holidays gifts, please click on through to our Ravelry group and share them there. Happy knitting!

What are we wearing?
Raiun by Kirstin Johnstone
Sharlene's Raiun
Gayle's Vitamin D
Liesl by Julie Weisenberger
Gayle's Liesl

What are we stalking?
Odaki by Kirstin Johnstone
French Cancan by Mademoiselle C
Campside by Alicia Plummer
Custom Fit by Amy Herzog
Ease by Alicia Plummer
Armande by Andi Satterland
Monstermitts by Julia Allen
Monster Cowl by Julia Allen

What are we knitting?

Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
test knit for Elizabeth Doherty (link to her design page)
Stockinette socks
Monomania by Ann Weaver

Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli

Field of Wildflowers by Joji Locatelli

Painted Pixels Blanket by Susan Carlson

What have we finished?
Pebble Beach Shawlette by Helen Stewart
Sharlene's Pebble Beach
simple crochet washcloths
Field of Wildflowers by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Wildflowers hat
Jaywalker (socks) by Grumperina
Sharlene's Crazy Jaywalkers

Daughter approved by Susan Ashcroft
Gayle's Daughter approved

Kaweah Hat by Veronica Parsons

Odd Stripes (hat) by Joji Locatelli
Gayle's Odd Stripes

Quick(ish) Gifts
-Washcloths-
Oh So Soft Baby Washcloth by Theresa Grant

-Hats-

Barley by tincanknits

Golden Pear by Melissa Thomson

Kitimat by Kayla Sparkes

Hermione Hearts Ron by Christy Aylesworth
A Little Lonely Cable by Joji Locatelli

-Mitts-

Easy Fingerless Mitts by Roxanne Richardson

ZigZag Fingerless Gloves by Whole Earth Education

Commuter Fingerless Mittens by Stephanie Sun

-Others-
Rachael's ISBN Cabled Hot Water Bottle Cozy by Rachael Herron

Minikins by Wooly Wormhead

Tea Toters by Julie Tarsh

Episode 74 audio

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Episode 73 - A chat with Edie Eckman

Gayle and I were guest speakers this week at two meetings of the Santa Cruz Knitting Guild. We enjoyed ourselves immensely and were impressed with the range of knowledge and the service that the guild organizes in our community. It just affirmed our belief that knitters are wonderful folks and reminded us that kind knitters can be found everywhere. If you have the opportunity to visit a guild in your area I encourage you to give it a try. Knitting with a group is very different than knitting solitary and gives us all the opportunity to learn and to create in community as well as providing an opportunity to knit for good. :)

We are now accepting registrations for the Northern California Knitting Retreat. Information can be found in our Ravelry group here, or in the retreat Ravelry group here. Registrations will be accepted until November 5, and if we receive more than we have spaces, we will hold a lottery.

Because of our guild obligations, we release a prerecorded episode this week. Please welcome Edie Eckman to our podcast and community. Edie is a wonderful teacher and author and we are pleased to have had the opportunity to chat with her. Gayle and I have been sharing the crochet love recently and ever since I took a class from Edie three years ago at TNNA, I knew she would make be an informative guest for the podcast. 

As always, thanks so much for listening. You can join in the chat about this episode in our Ravelry group here.
 - Sharlene

Edie's website
Edie's patterns on Ravelry

What are we knitting?
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
Daughter approved by Susan Ashcroft
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
Miss Babs Ephemeral bfl/silk blend (discontinued)

Edie's new book is Christmas Crochet for Hearth, Home, and Tree

Fit Satisfaction of Crochet Apparel (pdf link)

Edie's classes on Craftsy
Joining Crochet Motifs
Improve your Crochet Essential Techniques
How to say it: Pattern writing for knitters

Episode 73 audio

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Episode 72 audio

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Episode 72 - KAL wrap up!

Thanks so much to everyone who participated in our Colors of Fall 2014 KAL!  Click here if you would like to see everyone's projects on Ravelry. What a fun KAL. My favorite part is seeing everyone's finished "look" and how you style your knit pieces. Fantastic! Thanks to all who participated, knit along with us, and joined in the discussions. I wish we could send you all prizes just for showing us your stuff. :) The prize winners are announced, and if you hear your name, please pm Gayle or me on Ravelry and we will make sure to get it to you as soon as possible.

Just a reminder that it is October and the date for accepting registrations for the Northern California Knitting Retreat is October 15. Details here if you are interested.

Enjoy the beginning of the fall season and wear your knitwear with pride!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Laika by Ysolda Teague
Sharlene's Laika
yarnosaurus' Laika one, Laika two, Laika three, Laika four, Laika five, and Laika six
Hitofude Cardigan by Hiroku Fukatsu

What are we stalking?
Fickle Heart by Justyna Lorkowska
Abuku by Olga Buraya-Kefelian
Ink Ripples by Elena Fedotova
Kaweah Hat by Veronica Parsons
Hat Season by Joji Locatelli
Axis (mitts) by Samantha Roshak

What are we knitting?
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Magnolia
Monomania by Ann Weaver
Daughter approved (cowl) by Susan Ashcroft

What have we finished?
Chevron Colour-Block Blanket by Espace Tricot
Sharlene's Chevron blanket
Obsidian by Lisa Mutch
Gayle's Obsidian
#9 Hat/Cowl by Steven Berg
Garter Ear Flap Hat by Purl Soho
Golden Pear (hat) by Melissa Thomson
Helix Striped Hat by Corrie Purdum

We announce the winners for the Colors of Fall 2014 KAL! If you hear you name for a prize, please contact us via by Ravelry message.

We talk about Botanical Knits 2, from Alana Dakos.
Sprig has the most projects listed on Ravelry.
We saw the Bare Branches coat at Stitches West and love the hidden tree motif.
The Hanging Leaves shawlette has a lovely edging that moves.

Episode 71 - Sharing our Big News!

Sharlene's chevron blanket, knit in Dragonfly fibers Traveller

What are we wearing?
Literally Over the Top by Megan Williams
Sharlene's Over the Top
Lindy Chain yarn
Jeweled Cowl by Sachiko Uemura
Dragonfly Fibers Pixie yarn

What are we stalking?
Ravelry's popular blanket pattern list
Watercourse by Carina Spencer
Krydda by Madeleine Nilsson
Diary by Ankestrick
Monomania by Ann Weaver
Neighborhood Fiber Company Rustic Fingering
Skiff by Jared Flood
Daughter Approved by Susan Ashcroft
Shasta Daisy Knits yarns

What are we knitting?
Jaywalker by Grumperina
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli
Chevron Color Block Blanket by Espace Tricot
#9 Hat/Cowl by Steven Berg
Hitofude Cardigan by Hiroku Fukatsu
Obsidian by Lisa Mutch

What have we finished?
Sharlene's Scrappy Shawl #2
Literally Over the Top by Megan Williams
Sharlene's Over the Top
ZigZag Fingerless Gloves by Whole Earth Education
I Was a Teenage Mutant by Alex Tinsley
Easy Fingerless Mitts by Roxanne Richardson

Annoucements
Santa Cruz Knitting Guild presentation
Tuesday Oct. 14, 6:30pm
Thursday Oct. 16, 10am

Lambtown
Saturday Oct. 4 and Sunday Oct. 5

We are participating in the Northern California Knitting Retreat!
We will have a Ravelry group soon with all the details.

Knitting, for both Gayle and I, is far more than simply working with beautiful yarns and fibers. We both love the relationships we have built with old and new friends. This podcast has been so amazing in that respect, bringing us together with kindred spirits that we may not have otherwise met--folks from all over the country, and all over the world. I know that our small retreat will mean a disappointment to some who can't attend--I feel it myself when one of my online friends hosts an event or goes to an event that I can't attend. As we started the first few discussions when we realized we could make this retreat fantasy a reality, we just didn't know what to expect--will it be a handful of us knitting together, or a whole room full of like-minded crafters sharing ideas and yarn? I wish I could host these events all over the country and come and meet each one of you in person and thank-you for listening and participating in the Yarniacs community. Whether you can attend or no, if you have read this far into my sappy meanderings please know that you are a valued part of the Yarniacs community. Thanks so much for listening!

Epidsode 71 audio

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Episode 70 - Hashtag epic fail

Sometimes I overhear my kids and their friends teasing each other, using the phrase "Hashtag epic fail." If you've been around the internet, you know they mean #epicfail as used in social media like Twitter or Instagram. This week Gayle and I co-opt their phrase to share a little bit of our knitting history, and some projects that we categorize as "hashtag epic fails." Gayle and I knit a lot, and have knit a lot, and on the podcast we love to share the things we knit and why we love them. But it is important to know that yes, like all knitters, we too have produced many stinkers, duds, or epic fails. Most of the time you hear about our successes, but now, welcome to our epic fails! And keep in mind, we only had time for a few. There are many more lurking in our closets!

What are we wearing?

In the Moment by Joji Locatelli

Sharlene's In the Moment shawl

Puck by Boo Knits 

Gayle's Puck

What are we stalking?
Pink Onyx by Ayako Monier
Gemini by Jane Richmond
Missoni Falls Cowl by PassionKnit
Monomania by Ann Weaver
Monomania projects on Ravelry
Diary by Ankestrick

What are we knitting?
Sharlene's Scrappy shawl
Magnolia by Joji Locatelli
Obsidian by Lisa Mutch
Hitofude by Hiroko Fukatsu

What have we finished?
Sharlene's kitchen scrubbie
Viajante by Martina Behm
Measure in Love by Megan Williams
ZigZag Fingerless Gloves by Whole Earth Education

We draws winners for the e-books Mystic Shawls and Knits that Breathe!

Sharing our epic fails here:
Sharlene's Ballet Camisole
Gayle's Rocky Coast Cardigan
Sharlene's Ivy cardigan
Gayle's Fitted Turtleneck
Sharlene's February Lady Sweater 2
Gayle's sweater for her husband

Episode 70 audio

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Episode 69 - And sometimes we crochet!

Often Gayle and I find out we have been stalking the same pattern, project, designer, or technique. We always laugh and roll our eyes. Now we have come to expect it. This week we have both experienced numerous crochet references, so we decided to share a little bit about crochet. We both started out as crocheters and both continue to crochet. I get occasional hand/arm pain and have found that crochet uses different muscles and is therefore a good alternative that helps me reduce the chance of repetitive stress pain. We aren't experts on the subject of crochet, so many of you probably have more experience and can share some great references. If you have a comment or a reference that you can add to the conversation, please join us on Ravelry here.

And yes, somehow we always end up with a gratuitous Boo photo, taken during recording. This episode he took a liking to Gayle's felted tote/cat bed. Here he is looking fierce--he was actually yawning at the time--and then cuddly. Enjoy!
--Sharlene

What are we wearing?
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Floral Opulence by Rosalyn Jung

What are we stalking?
Dragonfly Fibers Pixie
Pebble Beach Shawlette by Helen Stewart
Measure In Love by Megan Williams
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
Echoes of Color by Joji Locatelli
Puck by Boo Knits
Mix No. 31 by Lori Versaci
Endearment by Hanna

What are we knitting?
Literally Over the Top by Megan Williams
So Scrappy shawl by Sharlene
Viajante by Martina Behm
Gayle's Viajante
Hitofude by Hiroko Fukatsu

What have we finished?
Let Your Heart Unwind by Joji Locatelli
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
So Scrappy shawl by Sharlene
Floral Opulence by Rosalyn Jung

Gayle is taking this class on Craftsy:
Edie Eckman's Joining Crochet Motifs

Episode 69 audio

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Episode 68 audio

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Episode 68 - Back to reality

I am back from my family vacation and jumping right back into the podcast. Once again, I am trying to choose what to cast on next, and facing too many choices, casting on nothing! This has to change, and I must pick something soon. Contributing to my indecision, there are new fall pattern releases both in print and online that tease me with their yarny possibilities. I need to finish up my shawl for the #yarniacscolors2014 KAL too. How about you? Have you finished a #yarniacscolors2014 KAL project? If you have, please share it with us in the Ravelry thread, or on Instagram using the hashtag #yarniacscolors2014

We can't wait to see what you are making!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Imagine When
Boxy by Joji Locatelli
Gayle's Boxy

What are we stalking?
crazy stripes tee by atelier alfa
cdncarol's tee
Arrowbite by Larissa Brown
Puck by Boo Knits
Obsidian by Lisa Mutch

What are we knitting?
Fingering weight leftovers shawl
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
Jaywalker socks by Grumperina

Viajante by Martina Behm
Hitofude by Hiroko Fukatsu
...a hint of summer by Isabel Kramer

What have we finished?
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Magnolia Cardigan by Joji Locatelli

Episode 67 - Welcome Luci

As I was listening to this episode before we released it (yes, Gayle and I both listen before we release them!) I realized my bird is chirping and squawking in the background. The interesting fact is, I didn't even notice her chiming in when we recorded. She is just such a part of my life that I am used to having her chatting away along with us. You've heard a lot about my pets because we record at my house. But this week Gayle's family added a new member. Please join me in welcoming little Luci to the podcast family. I am sure Gayle will be sharing many Luci stories in the podcast forum on Ravelry. If you haven't joined us there, please do, especially if you are interested in chatting with like-minded folks about non-knitting topics. We try to stay on topic for the podcast--we are first and foremost a knitting podcast--but in the forums you have the chance to chat with us and other yarniacs about, well, just about anything that comes up. We are a friendly group. :)

Summer knitting is in full swing, and since we talked about non-wool patterns from the book Knits That Breathe by Julie Turjomen last episode, we thought we would talk a little bit about the non-wool yarns we have recently used. We hope this will enhance your summer knitting.

If you are like me and already thinking about fall knits, we look forward to seeing what you knit up for our Colors of Fall 2014 KAL. Please use hashtag #yarniacscolors2014  for your social media needs.

Happy knitting!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Sharlene's February Lady Sweater
Sharlene's second February Lady Sweater
Lion Brand Cotton Ease yarn
Liesl by Julie Weisenberger

What are we stalking?
Whispers by Veera Valimaki
Yellow Brick Road Cardi by Ela Torrente
Lush by tincanknits
Hitofude by Hiroko Fukatsu
Let your Heart Unwind by Joji Locatelli

What are we knitting?
Let Your Heart Unwind by Joji Locatelli
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Magnolia by Joji Locatelli
...a hint of summer by Isabell Kraemer

What have we finished?
Blanket sample in Dragonfly Fibers Traveller Gradient Set
Raiun by Kirsten Johnstone
Viajante by Martina Behm

What are we swatching?
Sparrow from Quince and Company
Kestrel from Quince and Company
Coronado from Toluca Knit

Episode 67 audio

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Episode 66 - The recovery episode

Thanks to those of you who have sent your well-wishes for my recovery. Things are going well and I would like to thank my podcast co-host Gayle for picking up the slack on this episode. :) I was a bit low-energy, though Gayle claims things were fine, but I definitely felt weary by the end of the recording.

In episode 66, we catch up on our projects, what we've finished, and things we are stalking. In other words, back to our regular segments. But I do want to say thanks for all the love for the Joji episode. We have had so many new listeners drawn to the show by Joji and her designs and we hope you will choose to stick around and continue listening, and join the fun in our community on Ravelry. We promise, Joji will be back!

Boo (Sharlene's former kitten now cat pictured left) joins us during the review segment.  If you listen closely you can hear him crying to me to open the door right before he jumps up to join us. For Boo fans, here is a photo of him trying to steal my attention away from my show notes. :)

I hope everyone is having a fun summer (or fall depending on your part of the world), and planning your projects for our #yarniacscolors2014 KAL. We look forward to seeing everyone's new looks!
- Sharlene


What are we wearing?
Breezy Cardigan by Hannah Fettig
Sharlene's Breezy
Drifting by Cecily Glowik Macdonald
Gayle's Drifting

What are we stalking?
Tatu by Annamária Ötvös
Let your Heart Unwind by Joji Locatelli
Mochimochi Snowmen by Anna Hrachovec
Hitofude by Hiroko Fukatsu

What are we knitting?
Viajente by Martina Behm
Blanket knit in Dragonfly Fibers Traveler
Raiun by Kirstin Johnstone
... a hint of summer by Isabell Kraemer
Magnolia by Joji Locatelli
Color Craving by Stephen West
Drifting by Cecily Glowik MacDonald

What have we finished?
Modicum Mitts by Rachel Rodin
Gayle's Modicum Mitts
Minikins by Wooly Wormhead
Oh So Soft Baby Washcloths by Theresa Grant
Baby Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker
Gayle's Vertebrae
I was a Teenage Mutant by Alex Tinsley
Gayle Mutant hat

Books we discuss:
Knits That Breathe by Julie Turjoman
Mystic Shawls by Anna Dalvi

Episode 66 audio

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Episode 65 - Joji Locatelli

When Gayle and I first started podcasting, we had lots of ideas about what we wanted to share with our listeners. One of those ideas was to chat with our favorite designers, and share why we love knitting their designs. Joji Locatelli was one of the names that came up again and again. Not only because we have both knit many of her patterns, but because through her blog, Twitter, and Instagram accounts, we both felt Joji was a knitter with whom we would enjoy chatting and knitting. It has been a long time since those early podcasting brainstorming sessions and we are so pleased to be bringing this episode to you. As expected, Joji is charming and  inspiring. After our chat, I want to knit all the Joji things! I hope our excitement shines through and you will enjoy our friend Joji's patterns as much as we do.
- Sharlene

Note: Joji lives in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and this interview was brought to you through the magic of the internets. There are a few places where the audio fades a bit and there was a delay, causing us to temporarily talk over each other. We tried to minimize this and hope you won't find it too distracting. Please know we strive to provide you with the best possible audio quality. :)

Joji's website
Find Joji on Ravelry

What are we wearing?
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Imagine When
Fiber Company Meadow (yarn)
Summer Festival by Georgie Hallam
Gayle's Summer Festival

What is Joji knitting?
Skein yarn from Australia
Denim colorway
Joji's Instagram photo of her current project


Magnolia Cardi
Western Sky Knits yarns
Western Sky Knits Magnolia sock base

Lipstick
Sharlene's Lipstick
Gayle's Lipstick
New shawl: Let your Heart Unwind

Boxy
Echos of Color

Interpretations, a collaboration between Joji Locatelli and Veera Valimaki
The Interpretations look book
Veera Valimaki's website
Veera Valimaki on Ravelry

Worsted Boxy

Old Romance
Thoughts
cdncarol's Thoughts

Episode 65 audio

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Episode 64 - Here comes summer!

Summer is upon us! School is winding down and the fog has returned to Santa Cruz. Time to think about summer knitting and joining in on the Colors of Fall 2014 KAL, #yarniacsfall2014KAL

We chat about the fall colors, options, and try to narrow down both our yarn and pattern choices. We hope you will join in and have fun with it. Last year, one of my favorite things was seeing everyone's "styled" pics. I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Ribby Pulli by Bonne Marie Burns
Liesl by Cocoknits
Gayle's Liesl

What are we stalking?
Inner Peace by Joji Locatelli
Surry Hills by Maria Magnusson
...hint of summer by Isabell Kraemer
Painted Pixels Blanket by Susan Carlson
Waikiki Wildflower Blanket by Susan Carlson
Wrap around crochet bracelet by Yuli Nilssen
Mudra Cuff by Laura Nelkin
Kable Kuff by Laura Nelkin

What are we knitting?
Viajante by Martina Behm
Quince and Company Kestrel, a linen yarn
Candelia by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sharlene's Candelia

What have we finished?
Flamingo Mittens by SpillyJane
Gayle's Flamingo Mittens

Pantone colors of Fall 2014 KAL #yarniacsfall2014
Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2014
If you prefer to download the pdf, you can find it here.  (It will start downloading if you click this one.)
Designer Lela Rose wants a "deep Navy, chunky, cashmere cable-knit sweater with crystals embedded into the cable knit" for Fall 2014
Nicole Miller wants a "cashmere wrap in Charcoal or Plum."

The men's palette has an additional color called Sea Fog.
Kenneth Cole's mens look featuring Sea Fog in the palette.
Elle magazine Fall 2014 trends

Episode 64 audio

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Episode 63 - Back to the beach

We are back at the beach with this episode. Unfortunately that means there is a bit of ambient noises from a variety of sources. Hopefully it won't be too distracting as we catch up on what we have been knitting and doing the past month. Details below and at the end of the episode about our second colors of fall KAL, using the  Colors of Fall 2014 from Pantone. We hope this will give us all time and space to think about creating something lovely to wear when Fall 2014 arrives. If you use social media, please share your yarn and photos using the hashtag #yarniacscolors2014


What are we wearing?

Spring Showers by Joji Locatelli
Sharlene's Spring Showers

Vitamin D by Heidi Kirrmeier
Gayle's Vitamin D

What are we stalking?

Outlined by Suvi Simola

Lady Charming by Veera Välimäki

Rhombi by Terry Kruse

Pin-Striped Sweater Tee by Jenjoyce Design

Floral Opulence  by Rosalyn Jung

Candelia by Cecily Glowik MacDonald
Sharlene's Candelia

…a hint of summer by Isabell Kraemer

What are we knitting?

Jaywalker by Grumperina
Sharlene's previously knit Jaywalker socks 1, 2, and 3

Viajante by Martina Behm
Sharlene's Viajante in progress

Kestrel yarn from Quince and Co.

Liesl by Coco knits

Learn to Knit a Log Cabin Blanket by Staci Perry

What have we finished?

AfterThought Heel Socks by Laura Linneman
Sharlene's Afterthoughts 2

tea toters by Julie Tarsha

Golden Pear hat by Melissa Thomson
Gayle's Golden Pear

Clincher by Ash Kearns
Gayle's Clincher
Sharlene's Clincher

Our Colors of Fall 2014 KAL open June 1! We had so much fun with everyone picking colors and styling our "looks" that we decided to do it again. Details and chat can be found in our group on Ravlery.

Episode 63 audio

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Episode 62 - We talk design with Wendy Bernard!

Similar to wool, Gayle and I have a lot to learn about garment design and how designers do the magic they do. Like our wool series, we'd like to start an occasional series with designers, the work they do, and how they do it. Our guest today is Wendy Bernard, author and designer of the popular Custom Knits series and the Knit and Tonic blog. Wendy also has a fabulous new stitch dictionary coming out next week Up, Down, All-Around Stitch Dictionary. This is a fabulous stitch dictionary with a twist--each stitch pattern includes instructions and charts to knit from the top or the bottom. If you have ever switched up a pattern to knit it top-down as I have, you know what a cool resource this is for a knitter! If you've ever wanted to add a little bit of bling to an edging, or change a ribbing to something other than k2 p2, then this resource should find a way onto your bookshelf. One of my favorite features of this book is the index that organizes stitch patterns by multiples, making it easy to swap out the stitch pattern on a hat or garment edge.

We were lucky enough to chat with Wendy a week before the new book's release and snag a copy for one lucky listener.  Wendy is as lovely and down-to-earth as she sounds in her blog and books, and we enjoyed our chat immensely.

Gayle and I have knit several of Wendy Bernard's designs including:
Lion Neck Cardigan
Sharlene's Lion Neck Cardigan
Gayle's Lion Neck 1
Gayle's Lion Neck 2
Favorite Cardigan
Sharlene's Favorite 
Gayle's Favorite
Yogini Bolero
Sharlene's Bolero
Gayle's Bolero 1
Gayle's Bolero 2
Socks on a Plane by Laura Linneman
OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams
Flamingo Mittens by Spilly Jane

What are we knitting?
Jaywalker by Grumperina
Viajante by Martina Behm
Clincher by Ash Kearns
Gayle's Yogini Bolero by Wendy Bernard

What are we stalking?
Opan sock yarn
Susan B. Anderson's Opal socks
Pakucho organic cotton
Quince and Company Sparrow yarn
Quince and Company Quince yarn

Wendy's new book is available here:



 

Episode 62 audio link

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Episode 61: Catch up!

It has been slightly longer than usual between our recording of episodes and we have a bit of catch up to do! We've finished some projects, stalked a few new things, and rediscovered sock knitting.We also add a little more to the inspirations discussion. We talk about fiber, and if we are inspired by the fiber to make the projects we do, or if the pattern inspires us to pick the fiber and project. Process or project knitter? Do new techniques draw you in or do you prefer something more familiar? Most of us are probably a combination of all these things combined. Either way, I am sure you will all agree that picking our projects is exciting and inspirational in and of itself.

What are we wearing?
February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne
Sharlene's February Lady Sweater
Yogini Bolero by Wendy Bernard

What are we stalking?
Vanadium by Lisa Mutch
Raiun by Kirstin Johnstone
Chance of Showers by Heidi Kirrmaier
Vitamin D by Heidi Kirrmaier
Angry Sheep Cardigan by Pinneguri

What are we knitting?
AfterThought Heel Socks by Laura Linneman
Viajante by Martina Behm
Clincher by Ash Kearns
Secrecy by Hanna Maciejewska
Fairy SnowCap by Romi Hill
Socks on a Plane by Laura Linneman

What have we finished?
Svalbard by Bristol Ivy
AfterThought Heel Socks by Laura Linneman
Clincher by Ash Kearns
Yogini Bolero by Wendy Bernard
Fireflies Rising Shawlette by Helen Stewart

Inspirations Part 2
Fiber inspiration! Are you a knitter who is inspired by patterns and then picks yarn to make your project? Or are you a knitter who is inspired by yarns and then picks patterns to go along with it?

Episode 61 audio link

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Episode 60 - Inspiration

In addition to our usual segments, Gayle and I talk about inspiration. What kinds of things inspire you to choose projects? Colors? Fibers? Patterns? Photographs? We get inspiration from many places. Our surroundings, websites, color and fiber swatches and other knitters all provide fuel for the inspiration fire. We are both looking forward to the discussion about everyones' inspirations and hope you will join us over at our Ravelry group. Some links to our inspirations that can be found online can be found below. Enjoy!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
22 Little Clouds by Martina Behm
Sharlene's 22 Little Clouds
Audrey in Unst by Gudrun Johnston
Gayle's Audrey in Unst
Red Robin Shawl by Helen Stewart
Gayle's Grey Robin Shawl

What are we stalking?
Sock Monkey tape measure cover by Justyna Kacprzak
Ravelry popular shawl list
Pagona by Steven West
French Cancan by Mademoiselle C
Brickless by Martina Behm
Zilver by Lisa Mutch
Secrecy by Hanna Maciejewska

What are we knitting?
Svalbard by Bristol Ivy
Sharlene's Svalbard
Sharlene's Striped Shawl
Viajante by Martina Behm
Laneway by Veera Valimaki
Flamingo Mitts by SpillyJane

What have we finished?
Winding Journey by Julianna Lund

Inspirations: What inspires us and our knitting, crafting, and in general?

Color inspirations can be found here:
Design Seeds
Pantone color website, scroll down to see the color of the day

Nature inspirations including:
Flowers, plants,  beach, the ocean, the sand
Flowers and leaves combinations, stormy skies

Souvenirs, post cards & note cards

Instagram
Sharlene's Instagram feed
Gayle's Instagram feed

National Forests
Clark Little Gallery
Yosemite National Park
Pantone

Ravelry friend activity and neighbors

Pinterest
Stash and Burn podcast

Episode 60 audio link

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Episode 59 - Spring break edition

Spring break was this week, and my computer and knitting time has been extremely limited. As I was getting my show notes together I realized I hadn't been doing much pattern stalking and my wips haven't seen much action. Gayle has been traveling and though she has had the luxury of airport and airplane knitting, she hasn't been doing much stalking either. But we do have a few tidbits to share with you and hope you will enjoy and find something useful!

We chat about a new single-ply superwash fingering yarn on the market from Dream in Color. We are also giving away a skein, so be sure to visit our group on Ravelry to enter for a chance to win!
- Sharlene

What are we wearing?
Imagine When by Joji Locatelli
Aniron Tunic by Luise O'Neill
Red Robin Shawl by Helen Stewart

What are we stalking?
Big Bold Chevron Curtain by Tamara Kelly
Easy Crochet Owl by Jaquie Bunny Mummy
Tape Measure cozies on Ravelry
Tiny Turtle Tape Measure by Sophia Zhu
Clincher by Ash Kearns
Fireflies Rising Shawlette by Helen Stewart
Drifting by Cecily Glowick MacDonald

What are we knitting?
Viajante by Martina Behm
Svalbard by Bristol Ivy
Barley by tincanknits
Winding Journey by Juliana Lund
Flamingo Mittens by SpillyJane
Laneway by Veera Valimaki

What have we finished?
Dish Scrubbie by Sharlene
Sea Anemone Scrubbie by Sharlene
Kitimat by Kayla Sparkes
Fisher Cable Hat by Lindsey Felice
Naughty Bohemian Little Black Skirt by Leslie Petrovski
Jeweled Cowl by Sachiko Amura
Gayle's Jeweled Cowl

Dream in Color Jilly yarn
New colors for 2014