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Date
Titre
Durée
30 Jul 2021
Episode 213: Blankets & Bobbins
00:58:17
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 213 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photo available on my website. Click here.
Stash Dash Total (3 ply yarn, 4 times through orifice): 902.08 meters
Bobble Lines Baby Blanket
Pattern: Bobble Lines Baby Blanket by Daisy Farm Crafts (free option on Daisy Farm website & paid option available on Etsy. )
Hook: I (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Main Color: Lion Brand Pound of Love in White. Stripes in: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Blush, Lion Brand Baby Soft in Creamsicle, Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in Tutti Fruitti, Loops & Thread Impeccable in Coral.
Working with 97 sts. 15 Bobble Rows
Edge
Round 1. DC around
Round 2. Hdc around
Round 3 with ice cream scoop. (DC5tog, sc2) around
Stash Dash total: 1,099.1 Meters
Finished Size: 36 inches wide by 46 inches long
Wristers Socks
Yarn: Lion Brand Mani-Pedi in the Wristers Colorway
Yarnable will likely open again to new subscribers in August 2021. Considering subscribing? Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN.
Magic Stripes Socks
Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the COal colorway (black)
Ordered fiber from Three Waters Farm on Etsy. Superwash Merino in the Forested Hills colorway- all greens and blues, and Quintessence colorway of Corridale Wool.
During Hattie and Millie’s sleepover we did some painting! Video available for Patrons. Haven’t joined us yet? Check out the options on my Patreon Page.
Knitting in Passing
I shared a story about knitting up at my cousin’s lake house with family friends and how my cousin asked for some more handmade dishcloths next time I visit.
In My Travels
I shared stories of our family’s long weekend up at Great East Lake in NH.
Sign up to be a Pigskin Sponsor using this Google form
Participants: Reminders
We are not yet ready for participants to sign up, but start telling your friends! Remember, you get points for new recruits.
Don’t forget that the Pigskin Party is a NO WIPs KAL so get those needles cleared off. If you need a little help with that, consider joining my Patreon Community. That’s going to be our focus in August.
Events
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details. They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
Crafty Chat #10 with Steph of AdoreKnit. Click here for the video.
My upcoming design- the Millie Margaret shawl just finished test knitting and will be released soon. Stay tuned. Sign up for email newsletter to get the best intro discount code.
Need yarn in flesh tones for amigurumi/dolls? Check out this yarn from Crafty is Cool
Sewrunknit says“I would love for you to share any travel tips that you have for traveling light and using fewer disposable products. Specifically how you handle deodorant, other toiletries and food on an airplane trip.”
I use bar soap for face & body- same as from home, or will cut off smaller piece. fits into a metal travel tin I got a couple years ago.
I have a small glass jar for my night face oil for face- that I refill from the larger Argon oil I get from Trader Joe’s.
For day time moisturizer/SPF, I bring full one, or use small silicone containers I got from Amazon
Deodorant- I bring full size or I have a travel size that I refill with a mix of baking soda and coconut oil and lavender (not great for flying or big swings in temperature).
Shampoo and conditioner- currently I’m using bars (not liquid), but when using liquid versions, I use refillable travel containers.
If I’m only bringing a carry-on but am going somewhere for a week, I’ll buy full size sunscreen or something I’ll need more than 3oz of, and then leave rest behind with someone there.
Food- I often pack banana, sandwich or wrap either in plastic container (that I can reuse during travel), or tinfoil. I bring dish soap with me, so I can wash containers and my water bottle. I often bring a straw cleaner too because I always travel with silverware and a stainless steel straw, a cloth napkin or two and a handkerchief.
Farmstead Knits asks about my – favorite patterned sock other than vanilla
AggiedecarloKnits- would you do a tutorial on spinning?
I hadn’t planned on it because I am not a very experienced spinner but I’ll think about. If you have thoughts on what specifically you all would like to see, let me know.
Flora_n_Fauna_victoria- I am new to the podcast. Could you do a quick who am I and how did I end up podcasting update?
Tune in to learn more about me!
On a Happy Note
Mille & Hattie’s Sleepover- Pancakes. We watched Beauty and the Beast and had some Blanket Fort fun.
We celebrated my nephew Will’s 14th Birthday.
I’m enjoying running.
Attending a 1 hour cardio jazz class taught by my friend Diana with my friend Megg. Dinner and drinks after and then Megg and I sang our hearts out on the car ride home.
4 days off work! Spending time at the lake!
Quote of the Week
To love a person is to learn the song that is in their heart and to sing it to them when they have forgotten.—Arne Garborg
About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
Started in May 2023. Finished on June 28, 2024
Total for Stash Dash: 262 meters
Baby James' Cozy Clusters Blanket
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Slush Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01110 [Navy] for the border
Finished size- 30.5 inches wide by 38.8 inches tall (not including the bobbles)
Finished on July 2
Total for Stash Dash: 1,010 meters (833 meters Caron Cakes [2.25 skeins] - 178 meters Loops & Threads- less than 1 skein)
Trish's New Orleans Socks
Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34.
Finished on July 3
Total for Stash Dash: 259 meters
American Ewe Turn a Square Hat
Yarn: American Ewe Worsted Tweed in the Terrace Mountain Colorway
About the yarn: 3 ply Merino/Rambouillet Shaniko Wool (89%) with 6% acrylic and 5% rayon flecks. The colorway is a natural with brownish tweedy bits.
I purchased the yarn for $15 at Adventures in Knitting in Harwich, MA on the way to visit friends who were staying in Wellfleet. They had a cool display of "used needles" for $4 each. I bought bamboo US.
Modifications: I use worsted weight yarn and knit the smallest size, omitting the increases after the ribbing. I knit 6 inches before the crown decreases.
Total for Stash Dash: 99.8 meters (109.2 yards), 51 grams
Portland Socks
Yarn: Urth Yarns Uneek Fingering in Colorway 3024
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Ravelry Project Page
About the yarn: self striping yarn- cornflower blue, dusty orange, yellowy green, peach, magenta and purple. I purchased the yarn at Knit Wit Yarn Shop in Portland, Maine. You can purchase the same yarn online from them.
I held a strand of navy blue nylon thread along with yarn for the heel flap and gusset to give more strength to the heel.
I used the Lemonwood Mini Minder (also purchased at Knit Wit) and knit the vast majority of this pair of socks in 2 days walking around Portland, visiting breweries and hanging out with friends. You can see a video I made of this project on Instagram.
Total for Stash Dash: 254.7 meters
Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project
Fiber: I purchased two 4oz braid of fiber from Into the Whirled in the Welcome to Litchfield colorway (1 braid Texel & 1 braid BFL Tussah Silk) along with 1 gray (The Traveler on Cheviot base) braid to ply them together.
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
Total for Stash Dash= 252.2 meters x 4= 1,008.8 meters
Book Holder
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Roving Stripes in Daisy & 1 other mystery colorway (lost the ball band), Premier Yarns Parfait Chunky (mustard) & Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted
I took inspiration from this pattern on Ravelry. (Boho Book Nook crochet pattern- but I was using MUCH chunkier yarn and I didn't want to use the same textured stitches)
I chained 21 sts and worked with 20 hdcs across each row- working in the third loop after the first row. I wasn't going to have enough of the Lion Brand Roving to make the whole thing, so I held the Wool of the Andes double for the part that would be covered. I worked a single crochet around the edges, and then sewed the front to back in just 1 spot on either side. I used a chain for the loop to tack it up on the wall.
Total for Stash Dash: 128.1 meters
Declan's Adrift Socks
Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Adrift colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Originally finished July 10, 2021. I ripped out in 2024 because the back was far too short. I ripped out the sleeves (tossed) and unseamed the back and front. The instructions call for the back to be 12 inches but the front falls about 17 inches from collarbone to the bottom hem. I knit about 14 inches on the back and then worked a few sets of German Short Rows before the bottom hem instructions.
I tried a few options for sleeves and then decided I"d just sew up the ends in a way to tuck/hem the ends under and I love that.
In the end I made the body longer and the sleeves shorter
Total for Stash Dash: 424.0 meters (463.7 yards), 212 grams
First Point of Libra Cowl
Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn
Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged.
I started in October 2022. My November 2022 notes say- I'm losing mojo on this and I don't think it has to do w/ the pattern or my yarn. I like it... but its not getting finished before my trip to the UK so I will need to find other wooly accessories to bring with me.
I picked up again July 2024 and it flew off the needles!
Modifications: In Section 4, I skipped adding color 4 & 5 (1-3 only). Skipped Section 5.
Finished size: 21 inches around. 15 inches tall.
Total for Stash Dash: 406 meters
Vera's Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal
Hook: 10mm (N/P)
Notes: started in April 2022. I never talked about it on the podcast. Inspired by an instagram post from Lion Brand. This WIP has been taking up a ton of space in my craft room ever since. When the pump in my dehumidifer went and we had to move some things to get at it, I decided I had to get this WIP done.
2 rounds of color- 1 round of wheat or oatmeal
18 were done. 30 finished now
Berry Bliss Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar)
About the yarn- lemon yellow, sherbet orange and pink. I worked the first heel in a pink sparkle yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz because I have some spiral striping going on and didn’t want to disrupt it.
Progress: I've finished the heel on the first sock.
Rafa's Hat
Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Cielo y Tierra colorway
Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
About the yarn: blues/tans that is almost striping at my gauge. The hat is a 1x1 rib that has a cool purl ridge detail.
Progress: I've worked two repeats of the pattern
Cold Goat Farm Spinning
Fiber: Cold Goat Farm Batt- I believe its Merino/Mohair but there are no details on the business card in my bag. I think I purchased it at Rhinebeck 2023.
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
Connections socks! Have you heard about them? You take your Daily NY Times Game- Connections Results and put them into colorwork socks. Suzanne told me about them- and recently saw and loved Wendy's!
Here's a link to Wendy's Connection Socks Ravelry Project Page.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
I found a small hole in my Mabel Style cross body sling bag and decided to use embroidery floss for a better hold and to add a bit of visible mending color. I received great customer service when I reached out to them!
I'm in the midst of a massive studio clean out. It started w/ issues with my dehumidifier and it's really spiraled from there. I'm excited to see how it all comes back together.
Knitting in Passing
Aila FaceTimed me from a friend’s house after buying a crochet dinosaur kit at the dollar store. The next day after pool day and dinner we practiced chain and single crochet.
In My Travels
Dan and I spent a long weekend in Portland, Maine to celebrate our 20th Anniversary.
I was able to go up a night early to attend the knit night at Rising Tide Brewery. I loved meeting Heather from Rising Tide and Jenn & her husband Chuck from Knit Wit.
Friday morning, I visited Knit Wit Yarn Shop's new location and then walked around. Dan, Dana and Sheri arrived and we met at Duck Fat for lunch before showing them around to some of our favorite breweries.
Saturday we visited local shops and more breweries before going to see comedian Kathleen Madigan.
Sunday, I did some shopping while Dan watched soccer then we enjoyed some drinks together and ended up back at Rising Tide where there was a 6p Burlesque show so Dan got us tickets. Really fun end to an awesome weekend.
KAL News
Pigskin Party '24 will kick off in the fall (specific date TBD). We're looking for Sponsors for this season. Interested or know someone who is?
Sign up for my email newsletter and click the box saying you're potentially interested in sponsoring events and you'll get first dibs on spots.
The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024.
Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
Tune in for a health Update on BostonJensMom
On a Happy Note
Dan and I took vacation the first week of July. Monday after Portland we just chilled. Tuesday I took Mom for whole brain radiation, then to visit my grandmother (her mother) and out for lunch. Wednesday/Thursday we visited friends renting a house in Wellfleet (Cape Cod) and Thursday/Friday we visited friends in Falmouth. Friday morning we picked up Riley from Camp and brought her to our house before she and I headed to Hornstra to get ice cream for lunch (because that's what vacation is for!) and over to my parents to the pool for the day.
Monday 7/8- I met up with my friend Megg to do a 5+ mile beach walk before she headed out to Ireland for the month.
Wed 7/10 Mom and I stayed in Boston to save her the back & forth daily for treatment. We met her friend Jacky for lunch. I went back to work in the afternoon. After work, we cooled off in the hotel pool and then had dinner, played Uno and bar trivia at The Hill. We stunk but it was fun!
Sunday July 14th pool day at my parents. Jenna, Dave, Gabriella and Zach came over. Within a few hours they were both jumping off the diving board!
July 17-18th Mom and I stayed in Boston again after her Radiation treatment. We hit the pool and fared slightly better at trivia but it was hard to be out as long. Mom's energy was much lower, she was coughing more and couldn't speak above a whisper.
July 21st we had a pool day at my parents. Jeff, Millie and Garret, Jenna, and the 2 kiddos, Kris, Will, Aila and Matt. We celebrated Will's 17th birthday. Mom's hair had started falling out and the blank spots at the back of her head looked like a butterfly! Mom told us to go find some Sharpies and color it in! It was a hard day for her and by extension us, but this added a bit of fun and whimsy to it! Millie even attached little plastic gems to parts of the butterfly. After the "temporary tattooing" we shaved off the rest of her hair to help w/ the shedding.
July 23rd- Mom's last day of Whole Brain Radiation!
Coming home to a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Dan.
Getting 2 massages this month after missing my scheduled on in June for our Portland trip! I always feel like I need it but I've been going up on weights at the gym and my upper body was screaming!
Quote of the Week
“I know nothing in the world that has as much power as a word. Sometimes I write one, and I look at it, until it begins to shine.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Jan 2022
Episode 225: Ski Stories & Stitches
00:48:47
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 225 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.
Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
In My Travels
KAL News
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Winter Carnival Hat
Pattern: Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher
Yarn: Hedgehog Fibers Merino DK in Genie (multicolored), Pachamama’s Alpacas Trixie & Preston Sport (natural), Spunky Eclectic Victoria (100% Polworth) in Sky (Blue) & Ginko (Green)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Taught Millie how to make pom poms to make them into little doggies. She didn’t finish but we got the basics of 2 pom poms done.
Knitting in Passing
I lost my new ski hat in NH but thankfully was able to find it.
Riley got her sweater project back and knit on that during sleepover at my parents and then on our ski trip. Millie brought her cowl and knit a bit in the car… and then per usual got car sick.
Millie wore a granny square jacket mom made for me when I was little, out to dinner the other night! It looks super cute on her.
My friend Laura sends me photos of her feet, warm and cute in her handknit socks which makes me so happy! Now my friend Megg has started doing that too. It’s a fun little game.
Check out my Reel. Use the Hashtag. Share your knits. Encourage your loved ones to play along too!
#knitgiftwearshare
I picked up a bottle of wine for big storm this weekend and received a nice compliment on my Felici Hat. Aran weight slouchy hat I knit out of Duck Duck Wool in the Summer Sidewalk Colorway. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear a story of our ski trip to Loon Mountain in New Hampshire. PSA: Please wear a helmet!
Patrons, check out the Patreon feed for a video vlog from that weekend!
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Tune in to hear if you’re a December Participation Winner
Life in Focus
Tune in to hear an update on my Goals for 2022 and my 22 for 2022 list.
On a Happy Note
Encanto on Disney Plus. Riley made us a popcorn/candy bar!
Liz & Millie playing guitars
I got to see Millie’s last session of gymnastics for the season.
Meeting up with my friend Melissa and her daughter for lunch.
We bought a book called “Mom Tell Me Your Stories” from Savers. It’s a book where you can document answers to questions about your Mom’s life. Riley and Millie are into it. We spent an hour Sunday morning asking Mom questions.
Dan bought me a cool new contraption so I can make hot coffee when we go camping.
Dan surprising me with dinner one night and lunch another day when my week was really hectic.
Not so great- Millie & Mom getting Covid. Happy note- Mom was chosen in the lottery to get monoclonal antibody infusion!
Snow is coming!
Quote of the Week
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Valentine Baskets- Delighted in putting together Valentine’s surprise baskets for my family. Included in them were the handmade garlands, books, mugs, candy, edible treats. baskets and some other goodies bought second hand. Plus some paper punch hearts they can staple together to make a garland- or use in another crafty project.
The Pigskin Party has officially wrapped up. Check out the End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects.
Tune in to hear the January/February Participation Winners, the January Stash Hat Interception Winner and the 14 Grand Prize Winners!
Events
Vogue Knitting is continuing their virtual classes. The next round is March 18-21. Check their website for more details about upcoming events.
Life in Focus
Word of the Year: Delight
I bought some stickers that say “DELIGHT” and I added a delight quote to the canvas I painted for the Pinterest Challenge.
I checked in on my 3 primary goals for 2021:
3 strength/circuit/barre/yoga workouts per week (tracked in Fitbit app)– I’m easily meeting and exceeding this now that I’ve been doing 30 Day Breath Series on the Yoga with Adriene YouTube channel.
8 designs published
1 down 7 to go (1 through tech editing, and 2 other samples knit)
Make & assess goals every month in 2021
Did my January assessment! Didn’t take long because I have been doing weekly assessments too.
We made a Birthday Video for Mom using Vidday. It allows you to send out a link and folks can upload their videos. You can arrange them, pick music etc. Then they process it all for you. $24 for 10-20 minute video. Worth it for the ease of use.
SNOW. So much snow.
I was able to see my Aunt Florence during her chemo treatment. I showed her video on how to make pompoms using cardboard circles & helped her purchase Knit Picks Bulky yarn for her to make some new hats.
Getting my 2nd Covid Vaccine.
Quote of the Week
When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. -Khalil Gibran
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 198 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full Show Notes with Photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/198
Getting back to my Ursa Cardigan and my Nanaimo Cardigan which I don’t think I even told you I cast on because I didn’t get very far.
I have a whole list of small Crochet projects I’d like to try out to make a Christmas garland or some small decorations.
Crafty Adventures
I’ve only done 2 pages for my December Daily Album which I’m ok with. Forgot that December is not really the ideal time to do that because in addition to really enjoying my Christmas making— scrapbook stuff down cellar. Pellet stove isn’t on. Cold.
Alo realizing, my goal i to document this stuff. I’m not feeling overly compelled to make every page a work of art. That’s fine. Taking pressure down a notch.
Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
I released my latest shawl design- the Boxing Day Bonus Shawl (Ravelry Link). It is a sideways knit garter & eyelet shawl intended to maximize the use of mini skeins, specifically an Advent Mini Skein collection! The shawl is worked with increases in garter stitch stripes up to the center panel. The triangles are formed with German Short rows, then you decrease in garter stripes to finish off. The result is a big, cozy shawl where the rows never get too long and you’re not binding off hundreds of stitches but you still get that polished edge with the mock i-cord effect I use in so many of my pattern. Best of all- the pattern includes links to video tutorials to guide you throughout.
Tune in for a coupon code only for podcast listeners! You won’t find it anywhere else.
On a Happy Note
Monday Nov 30th- we lost power in the evening but Dan and I worked together on getting the Christmas cards addressed and ready to mail!
We lost power again on Sat 12/5. It didn’t last long but we listened to the My Favorite Murder Podcast and I got sleeve of mom’s cardigan done.
Getting back into running!
2 massages recently!
Zoom knit hangout with my friend Emily who you may know from the Knitting Butterflies audio podcast. Emily has been posting videos on her YouTube Channel again. Check them out here.
All new windows installed, and our door replacements will be finished next weekend!
I visited with Mom for her sweater try on and to pick up garland. Tune in to Day 8 Vlogmas Video to see Mom’s gorgeous Christmas decorations. She says they’re scaled way down, and they are, but its still more than anyone else I know!
We had another rainy Saturday so we watched hours of Good Girls on Netflix and wrapped all of our Christmas gifts.
Getting to see our nieces and nephews (safely) and seeing Hattie experience Teddy Ruxpin Singing and Reading to her for the 1st time!
Quote of the Week
I used to spend a lot of energy trying to get further. I now spend a lot of energy trying to get better. Progress is a trajectory, not just a destination.
Thinking about making differently as we enter a safer at home winter season. Tune in to hear my musings about how my interests and choices have changed during the pandemic.
I’m going to cast on a bulky weight crochet blanket for my niece, Riley. Do you have a favorite washable, super bulky yarn that’s great for gifts?
Crafty Adventures
I ordered our Christmas cards from Snapfish.
I finally finished a scrappy curtain to hide storage space under my desk in my craft room. See more in my Week 44 Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash. Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry. Check out the Ravelry Thread.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Sometimes during the game, a team needs to just call it like it is, switch up the direction of play and punt the ball to the other team. We’ve all gotten a lot of practice with punting things in 2020. For the November Interception sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works, we’re going to see what projects you need to punt to make them work for you. This challenge is all about making substitutions from what a pattern calls for as a way of making sure it works for you (your materials, your skill levels, your aesthetic preference etc).
The Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1, 2020. #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Started 9/22.
I’ve been making more pages in the Project Life App for my 2018 album. I’m up to week 40, so only 12 left to do! Can definitely finish before the end of this year.
On a Happy Note
Our 1st snow.
A belated Halloween celebration.
Mom’s sweater try on.
Refinishing my great Aunt Milly’s old desk with my best friend.
My new overalls!
Exploring new trails that opened up in my town- even when I got lost!
Election results. Work for social justice and improvements to the way we treat our planet among other things are still going to require effort so I’ve signed up with Vote Save America to get more information on how to volunteer help out in Georgia’s run off election.
Our new backhoe!
Quote of the Week
“One of the consolations of old age is the intense pleasure I now get from nature. It seems that in youth I was too busy confronting life and experience to stand still and gaze.”
Pattern: Log Cabin Mitts by Karen Templar (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on this site)
Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn
Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
9 sections of garter stitch log cabin. I decided to knit the 2 squares concurrently so I'd remember which yarns I used for each section, not reading ahead enough to know that you were supposed to work them slightly differently to make matching mitts, but that doesn't bother me at all, so I just went with it and mine are opposites. I like that I can see all of the colors on the top or bottoms of my hands.
60g fingering weight yarn (held double)
253.8 meters for Stash Dash
Rafa's Hat
Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Cielo y Tierra colorway
Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Base in the Salt colorway (cream with blips of neons & gray) & a 50g Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Micro Skein in a Mystery Colorway (gray)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Bought the Qing Fibres Yarn in London in November 2022 with Laura. She chose this skein from my stash in 2023 not realizing we bought it when we were together.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal
Hook: 10mm (N/P)
2 rounds of color- 1 round of wheat or oatmeal
30 done in July. 47 done by August 7th. Had to order more yarn (twice) and ended up with 96 hexagons. The blanket is nearly the size of a full sized comforter.
Last summer's hexi blanket was fingering held double- 60x84 inches and took about 300 hexis which were 4 rounds each (these have only 3). (Check out the Ravelry Project Page here)
Berry Bliss Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Finished the first sock and am nearly to the heel on the second sock. I'm helical striping the LFA yarn and used leftover Knit Picks Felici Self Striping Yarn (purple, blue and a pumpkin orange) for the heel and toes.
You can't tell its striped at all. Looks like 1 cohesive colorway.
Progress: first sock finished, nearly to the heel on the second sock.
Brainstorming
I'm debating starting my first Woolens and Nosh advent sock early since December is hectic I never get as far as I'd like.
I thought I could make a sweater from me with the leftovers of Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater yarn, but it doesn't look like I'll have enough yarn, so that project is on hold. Perhaps I'll look for more yarn to add to it and save it for that.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Last Saturday, Oisin came here to Work with Dan. When Megg, Tom and Hattie came to pick him up they stayed for a chat. Hattie got out the ponies and Barbies, then she abandoned that to knit on my Berry Lemonade socks with me. She did fantastic after a quick reminder of the stitches and even took my feedback about putting her left index finger on the second stitch on the needle to prevent that from falling off while slipping the stitch she just worked, off the left needle.
Hattie asked to start her own pair of socks (ambitious) and tried on scrappy helical socks I started in November (Ravelry Project Page)
She tried on the scrappy helical socks I started in November and they fit. I need about 1.5 inches before toe on the first sock, so I should pick those back up soon.
KAL News
Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24
Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025
Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
Playoff Prediction Contest: Check the Ravelry Group on 9/4 for post. Choose the NFL team you think will win the Super Bowl this year (before the thread closes on 9/19). Correct guesses will get you extra points.
Tailgate Talk Challenge- Click here for Ravelry Link
Great way to get to know your team. There will be daily prompts from 9/5 through 9/16. Answer them in your Team thread in the Ravelry Group. If you answer them all, no more than 2 per day, you'll get 150 points (as long as you enter them on the Points Tally form by 10/1).
This year, we'll have 4 primary challenges during the full months of the event- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan. Stay tuned for those details. The sponsors are:
The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024.
Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
Mom Update: After Whole Brain Radiation, Mom went right into 5 targeted radiation treatments to help reduce the size of the cancer in a lymph node that was pressing on nerves that then get in the way of her right vocal cord. As of about mid-July, she didn't have any voice, and they hoped to correct that. On her last day of that radiation, she also had a PleureX cathetered installed in her right lung to allow regular at-home drainage to keep that pressure off her lung. The day after that- Dad and I tested positive for Covid and by Monday Mom had too. Thankfully Dad and I had only mild symptoms and Mom had none- which was a blessing because the insertion of that port left her riddled with pain for days.
Now she's coming out of that but starting a new chemo. We're hopeful that this will take away some of her pain and its already meant she doesn't need her lung drained as frequently. Hoping September will be a better month for her than the last couple.
Ask Me Anything
NDoyle asks: What has been your favorite item you've made this year and why?
Millie's Squishmallow Sheltie Dog that I crocheted without a pattern- Ravelry Project Page
Marilynknits- What gauge do you knit your socks at?
8-8.5 sts per inch.
56 sts on US 1.5 needles= 6.5 to 7 inch circumference
On a Happy Note
I am very relieved that Covid was mild for us, especially for my Mom. Also very grateful that my brother who was on vacation in Virginia just as we came down with Covid, ended up having a bicycle accident that left him with bruises all over and a broken rib- but is going to be OK. I made everyone promise we'd all stay out of the hospital for one full week!
Visits with my cousin Jenny and her daughter Vera who often come over to see my Mom.
Weekend pool time, especially with our youngest niece and nephew who are absolute fishies!
My dear friend Nathan (only a couple years older than me) had a successful heart and kidney transplant only 1 day apart from each other but is recovering well. Our family all bought t-shirts and made donations to help his family and got a great photo to send him poolside one afternoon!
My Mom wanted to get eyelash extensions so she, my cousin Jenny and I all went and it was a lovely experience.
Dan and I picked up my grandmother and we all went to my cousin Nancy's Surprise 60th birthday. Mom and Gram both had a great day that. Beautiful sunny poolday with all the kiddos swimming, I caught up with many of my cousins who I don't get to see all the time, learned there's another new baby coming in January and enjoyed fresh pizza from a woodfired oven. We also sang to my grandmother.
From there, we headed to Terri's Graduation Party. She runs the dancing school where I met Kris & Megg, two of my best friends who have 5 of our niblings. Dan's younger brother Dave played in the band, the kids all played together. We got to see Terri's brother who came up from FL, and Conor, Carly and baby Miles after they were in Nantucket for a couple weeks.
Dinner & Les Mis with Kris, Aila and Megg.
At Mom's chemo treatment, we got to see my friend Waveney who was my officemate in my first job at the hospital 22 years ago and her son, Tighe, checked us in at the Infusion Clinic. As soon as I said hello, his whole face lit up with a smile and he came around and immediately hugged us all. It was pure joy! He'll be back off to college soon.
We hosted a 90th birthday party for my grandmother at The Tavern in her assisted living facility. I put together all sorts of cool photo decorations & used some of her old picture frames for the tables and guests could take them as favors. Dan DJed, and my Dad, our friend Sharon & cousin Susan prepared the food) and the kiddos all acted as bartenders. Hattie even went around and took photos.
All of the joy and hope coming out of Democratic party with coverage of the DNC. It feels great to have a candidate I'm truly joyful about supporting.
A quieter weekend- getting ready for my friend Marta to arrive from Barcelona (if I'm a bit MIA that's why)
Quote of the Week
One evening in August, you have an errand outdoors, and all of a sudden, it’s pitch-black. It is still summer, but the summer is no longer alive.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
29 May 2020
Episode 185: Splash & Stash Time
00:42:37
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 185 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
Finished the spinning. Not sure if I’m going to 2 ply or try my first chain ply.
Brainstorming
I want to use some leftover Aran weight cotton yarn to make a dress for my 2 year old niece Hattie I’m thinking of the Infant Darling Danger Dress by Charissa Pray. $5 US Crochet pattern.
Crafty Adventures
Painting rocks at Mom and Dad’s
Kids made flowers. Dan made a turtle. I made a butterfly.
Knitting in Passing
I did a video chat with my 12 year old niece Riley. Thought she needed help to bind off but really just needed to close up the last stitch.
Riley used a video I sent her to cast on a new cowl to teach her friend to knit.
Millie (8 years old) can’t find kit from Christmas and wants to knit, so I sent supplies directly to their house and Riley agreed to cast on for her.
Here are photos of Riley’s first cowl and headband.
Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 years. It can be something you’ve made before.
Omitting all increases//decreases to keep the bottom at the end of the tie flat not pointed.
Finished tie is over 60 inches long.
126.6 meters
3 skeins in my Candombe Project- check out my Ravelry Project Page
2 skeins of 2ply yarn. Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. & Malabrigo in the Candombe Colorway
2 ply-60 inch loop. 242 wraps.12,762 inches or 410 yards. 324 meters. Stash Dash- 324 x3= 972 meters
2 ply-59 inch loop. 81 wraps4,779 inches or 133 yards. 121 meters. Stash Dash= 121 x 3= 363 meters
1 skein of a 3 ply. those 2 singles plus 1 other random tan colored singles.
60 inch loop 38 wraps.2,280 inches or 63 yards. 57 meters Stash Dash= 57 x4= 228 meters
Stash Dash Meters for this project: 1563 meters. All measurements taken after washing skeins
1 skein of yarn in Greens & Blues
Blues: Included singles from Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece
21 rows total. 12 or 13 hexis depending on the column.
SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together.
Working my way from the dark side to the light side when I pulled some hexis out of the bag where I was storing them- and pulled out a huge piece which I had forgotten I’d seamed together. It was the far right column and part of the top row of the light side! At least I realized it when I did, and only had to rip back a small bit of what I had already done.
I used safety pins and paper with notes to indicate which hexi was the start/end of each column. Worked like a charm and I didn’t have any other issues after that.
Border- 1 round SC, 4 rounds HDC around.
switch light to dark gray to match blanket.
Size (before washing) 45 in wide by 66 inches long
1976 grams total- almost 20 skeins of yarn!
Marled= 400 grams
Patons= 450 grams
1126 grams of everything else
7,176 meters
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Recollection Blanket
Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash.
Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
Rhinebeck sweaters. Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match the one I made Mom for Christmas 2020. Check out the Ravelry Project Page for her sweater.
Use up some handspun for us to wear. Thinking of The Shift (Cowl) by Andrea Mowry (available on Ravelry & on the Drea Renee Knits Website for $7 US)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Decorations and costumes for Megg’s Gatsby party.
Bought nearly all of it second hand. Gold and silver candles, candle holders, vases and glasses.
Got pink feather fan looking things on Clearance at Michaels along with what looks like sparkly crystal pink gravel. Put on silver and gold chargers under/around candles.
Spray painted feathers and sticks. Put in a large silver vase and added pearls strung through for centerpiece.
Knitting in Passing
This week, I shared a story about a man I encountered on the train who talked about his family’s history with fiber arts and the sewing he did in the Army.
Wool & Folk Event– October 14th from 12p until 7p in Kingston, NY. Tickets still available. $45.
On a Happy Note
Mom’s August scans look good despite having to come off her gene therapy medicine because of severe and painful issues with the skin and nails on her hands.
Dinner with my parents, brother and grandmother for her 87th birthday!
Visiting Dan’s friend Perry’s for his 81st Birthday. We found a local bakery that makes delicious pies. Great find.
Pool Days!
Queen Cover Band at South Shore Music Circus, after which my brother stayed over. He, Dan and I stayed up late talking.
Mid-week trip out to Northampton with Kris & Megg for the Indigo Girls concert! We bought matching tank tops & wore them hiking the next morning. Every person we saw commented on them and asked if we were in some kind of club!
Megg’s Gatsby Party!
Hiking in Wompatuck w/ Megg now that she’s back from Ireland.
Shopping at Ollie’s with Mom, Trish and Theresa. It’s very similar to Building 19 which is an old-school New England favorite for bargain shopping.
Watching Aila dance in the Cabaret show and Hattie (age 4) cheering her on (and having to stop her from dancing too much in the audience). I also got to see Eme for the first time since they got back from Ireland.
Mom’s eBay New England Seller’s Meet Up Group met for the first time since Covid this week! Had fun catching up with her crew. Check out their Facebook group here.
Quote of the Week
Yet occasionally we discover in the folds of an old handkerchief a shell or insignificant stone that had once embodied our happiest of afternoons.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
29 Feb 2024
Episode 273: Prizes Galore!
00:52:52
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 273 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
Millie's 2nd Squishmallow
Pattern: None. I did base some of the basic shaping on this pattern on Etsy
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn in brown, tan, white & pink
I worked bottom up with the brown, adding in a patch of white at the belly. I created the face out of tan/white and added safety eyes and sewed it on. I added 2 brown ears and a pink and white headband like this Squishmallow: Andres the Sheltie Dog (Amazon Affiliate Link)
Declan's 2nd Socks
Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Greener Pastures Colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Thanks for all the tips for his care package! Definitely taking some of those into account.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
FearLESS Socks (DK)
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Size: XS
About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)
Progress: 1st sock is finished. I'm knitting on the foot of the second sock.
FearLESS Socks (Cozy Toes)
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Size: M
About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)
Progress: Finished the first sock and the cuff of the second. These socks will be gifted to my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.
Modern Classic Baby Blanket
Pattern: Modern Classic Baby Blanket by Kristin Holloway ($8 crochet pattern available on Ravelry: free version w/ ads available on this website)
Hook: I (5.5)
Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins)
Size: Crib Blanket: 36 x 50”
The blanket is worked in 2 halves that you seam together at the center to make it symmetrical. The pattern features some crochet cables.
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Progress Notes- I finished the 3 round DC border to my December squares. My January squares done and seamed. I need to add the border to that.
Dan and I recently watched all 4 seasons of Jack Ryan on Prime. We also loved Jury Duty (also on Prime).
I'm thoroughly enjoying Love is Blind Season 6 & chatting about it with my friend Laura.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
Tune in to hear if you're a January Participation Winner and/or a Grand Prize Winner!
To make a personal donation, you can use this link
Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser.
I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
Life in Focus
I gave updates on a few of my 24 for 2024 items
#4- Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) well on my way with 10 books in first 2 months of the year.
#10- Publish at least one new pattern redid the math and proportions for a shawl I came up with last year. talked to an indie dyer about yarn support
#16- go skiing
6 of 24 completely done!
On a Happy Note
Valentine's Day software upgrade at work went well. I was awake at 2:30a so it was a long day and nothing festive really but it was a good day!
We hosted Millie and Hattie for their birthday sleepovers. I took them to the Altitude trampoline park and Panera on Friday night. Saturday morning: Millie and I hiked while Hattie and Dan did a dump run and rode around in the tractor. We all did some crafts together before heading to the movies to see Migration.
I tried a new OPI nail color and loved it. It's called "Pink in Bio"
I've completed teaching 2 of 4 classes on the OMG Heel at my LYS and we've already got more than half of the class successfully turning heels.
I enjoyed a movie night at my Mom's to watch Wonka.
Dan and I did a 1000 piece Ford puzzle.
I went skiing at Crotched Mountain. Tune in to hear a funny story about Megg's fall.
We all had a fabulous time at my cousin Jenny's baby shower. She loved her crochet blanket.
I had a lovely visit with my middle-school best friend Maribeth who is very sick. She was inpatient at the hospital where I work and I was able to go up and see her and catch up.
I love the daily puzzles from the New York Times- especially Spelling Bee. On the 21st I got every possible word earning me Queen Bee status!
My friend Trish gave me a souvenir from a trip she took to New Orleans; she went to a local yarn shop and bought yarn from Louisiana- which I'll definitely knit into socks for her. Cat Tails yarn dyed exclusively for the Quarter Stitch Colorway Christmas Bonfires
Quote of the Week
It is hard, so terribly hard, to please yourself. Far from being the easy thing that it sounds like, it is almost the hardest thing in the world, because we are not always comfortable with that true self that lies deep within us.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jun 2022
Episode 233: Europe, Socks & Crops
00:56:36
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video.
This 3 ply skein is 31 inches long from end to end, or 62 inches per wrap of the noddy noddy. 106 wraps= 6,572 inches or 166.9 meters for Stash Dash (because the fiber went through the orifice 4 times)
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Shawl Design
I shared some preliminary details about a new design idea using a 150g skein of fingering weight from agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk colorway.
Meggsie/Marta Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks FX in the Geranium Colors Colorway (leftover from Marta’s Socks) & Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway (leftover from Meggsie’s socks) + also added yarn from Aila’s dance socks.
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Baker Street Colorway (Ravelry Page), Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page) Psychedelic Rainbow (Ravelry Page- used a Lemonade Shop yarn for heel)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Kris’ Felici sock (Ravelry Project Page) blew out after just more than a year but keep in mind that Kris wears her socks daily from October- May and teaches dance in them.
In My Travels
I shared some stories about my recent trip to Ireland, Scotland and Spain. Patrons, don’t forget to check out the Patreon feed for blog posts, photos and a Google Album of my trip pictures.
Irocknitters KAL hosted by Cori (Irocknits Designs, also a Splash Pad Sponsor). Check out this post in her Ravelry Group. KAL runs from April 25th through June 30, 2022.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
On a Happy Note
Girls weekend with Kris and Laura. Got a cool embroidered art piece for our guest room which Mom and Dad got me for my birthday.
Birthday celebrations. Friday- kayaking with Mom, Dad and Dan. Beer out on the sandbar, local brewery, then ice cream and dinner with RGM. Sleepover at Mom’s. Pool day, lobsters. Kids bouncing on air mattress. Fake out with a small ice cream cake- which I have VERY strong feelings about. Kara’s kids- Emelie and Teddy. Em asked me if she could lick my cake. I thought she said Look AT my cake and I said SURE!
Quote of the Week
One does not ‘find oneself’ by pursuing one’s self, but on the contrary by pursuing something else and learning through some discipline or routine (even the routine of making beds) who one is and wants to be.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Apr 2024
Episode 276: More Chicken Please
00:44:06
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 276 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Christmas in July Socks
Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Christmas in July 2023 Colorway
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have!
Progress: I finished my March squares (month 6) and unboxed month 7!
Woolen Camelot socks
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers Sock (80/20 SW Merino/Nylon) in the Woolen Camelot colorway from the May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box.
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Check out my Unboxing Video for this May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box. If you're thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link.
It won't cost you any extra. I will make a small commission.
Colleen's Baby Blanket
Pattern: Crochet Modern Boho Granny Blanket by Tiffany Brown (free crochet pattern available on this website)
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Blue Mint, Soft Green, Riviera (Speckle), Kelly Green, Robin's Egg, White Sage (Speckle) & White
Hook: H (5.0 mm)
Progress: I've finished 3 colors, doing 7 pairs of DC/DC3 tog per color. On the 3rd color, Riviera, I ran out of yarn, so couldn't complete the last row, so I ripped back and had to start with the Kelly Green early.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
I took my nieces Riley and Aila to Connecticut for their birthday weekend sleepover. We got an AirBnB in Litchfield. Friday night, we stayed in and watched Gilmore Girls on Netflix (the inspiration for our adventure). Saturday we toured around! Here are some handy links.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
On a Happy Note
I went to see the musical Company in Boston.
I joined my parents and a few of my cousins at the Spring Fling event at my Grandmother's Assisted Living.
Riley came for a sleepover to finish Kris's chicken. On Saturday, we spent some time at my parents, and then Dad drove us to my nephew Garret's hockey final. His team won and he scored the first and last goal of the game.
After spending Sunday morning with a headache, I rallied to join my parents for Riley's dance competition.
I've had 2 weeks of drawing classes through my town's Rec program. We did some basic exercises the first week and then moved into more structural architectural drawing using 2 point perspective.
My mom's friends ran an auction event and raised over $1200 for the FearLESS Living Fund!
Mom completed another round of chemo.
I did a bit of studio tidying.
Gilmore Girls weekend with Riley & Aila.
Quote of the Week
We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Oct 2023
Episode 264: Rhinebeck Sweaters
00:59:14
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 264 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
During the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul, Liz found a sweater pattern she likes- The Order of the Jedi Pullover by Meghan Regan. Available on in Star Wars Knitting the Galaxy: The Official Star Wars Knitting Pattern Book.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Six players (LaDiDa2U, Sarahsyarn86, dottyandsassy, KjKrochet, yarnitheidi, and mackbytf) all crocheted some very cute pumpkins. YarnitHeidi's pumpkins are huge!
NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023
Join Me for a Rhinebeck Meet Up- Saturday 2p. There are permanent booths with food next to Building A. Across from that is a beer tent. To the left of the beer tent there's a covered pavilion area. Look for Mom, Liz, Riley & I there.
Come over to the Ravelry Thread about Pigskin Partiers going to Rhinebeck. Thanks ElsaandEm for starting it. It's her first year attending. Hoping we get to meet!
Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.
Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available
Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY
#1- Read 23 books (35 as of August- 43 as of early october)
#7- Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October done)
#9- Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun- Strathcona sweater
#17- Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. After a smaller clean out earlier in the year, I took a full car load to Savers in October- lots of clothes.
#23 Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists. Summer playlist, Old Dominion
On a Happy Note
My friend Megg and I took a longer than usual walk through our local State Park! After almost 8 miles, I came home and pressure washed the house & deck. For the deck, I used a surface cleaner from Ryobi that Dan purchased. You can find the same one on Amazon for $51. Parts of the deck were so badly stained from years of drought when we couldn't wash it. Areas where the wood pile is were especially bad. Exhausting but very satisfying day.
My cousin Chris & his wife Kim threw a wonderful party for their son Benjamin's Baptism.
I spent a week night at brother and sister-in-law's while they attended a work function. Ran the kids around to their activities, then Millie and I knit for a bit before she and Garret went to bed. Riley & I knit and watch Gilmore Girls before we went to bed. Truly delightful.
My financial advisor reached out to me after hearing that my work Open Enrollment is coming up and there was an option for a high deductible health plan that allows for a Health Savings Account, which he had encouraged me to do before (but it wasn't an option). Great customer service! Find a good financial advisor. It is so worth it.
Dan and I spent one evening at our nephew Will's soccer game in our home town. They got clobbered but it was fun to see him play. I also knit a bit and listened to my audiobook during part of the second half.
Mom, Riley, Millie & I got mani pedis at a local place!
Our annual Woodchopping Weekend Party went off without a hitch. Perfect weather. Great food. Dan took the kids on hayrides using a trailer pulled by the backhoe. Kids played disc golf and later flashlight tag, then retreated inside to make TikTok videos while the adults and littles made s'mores outside by the fire and chatted.
Mom & I put blue streaks in our hair after our friend Erika, who cuts/colors our hair, encouraged Mom to do this before her Vegas trip last year. Mom said if she was still here to go this year, she'd do it. Here we are! It looks great.
Finished up work on our FearLESS Living Fund Website. The bulk of the work and formatting, design was done by my Mom's friend Emma who was really generous to do this for us! So far we've raised almost $14,000 help the Blind community of Nevada. We are giving away awards for 2 special people to assist with their housing and cell phone costs for the upcoming year! Can't wait to raise more money. You can donate here.
Watching Love is Blind and chatting about it with my friend Laura.
Great customer service from AirBnB after our host canceled our Rhinebeck AirBnB.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Quote of the Week
"Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Feb 2024
Episode 272: Birthday Bonanza!
00:48:35
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 272 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Show notes with photos can be found on my website- www.downcellarstudio.com/272
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
Knitting in Passing
From the Armchair
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Same as It Ever Was Hat
Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Notes: I added length to the body before the underarms. I worked 13 inches before the sleeves (4 inches longer than called for)
Goofed up working on front left. Didn't read the instructions well and I bound off stitches for the underarm on the RS of the piece instead of the WS. Thankfully the rows were very short after that, so ripped back and was able to fix it in less than an hour.
Seaming- I seamed the shoulders and then the sides before setting in the sleeve. I should have done it in this order 1) shoulders 2) sleeves, 3) sides. This post from Amy Herzog was helpful re: Setting in Sleeves.
Collar- added a row of SC around the collar to make it look a little neater.
Finished Project 700g.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Jenny's Blanket
Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua
Progress: Finished all 5 color-block sections. I am using the 6th color for the border because the blanket was already long enough with 5 colors. The pattern has 2 border options, a scalloped edge & a modified picot edge. The latter is what I was planning but I think instead I'll use a bobble edging.
I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
Same as It Ever Was Hat #2
Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn: Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks. No colorway listed.
Progress- I finished the first sock and turned the heel on the second sock this weekend.
FearLESS Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Cast on for the smallest size and that fits well.
About the Colorway- Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock). Sue & Chelsea are donating 50% of sales to our FearLESS Living Fund.
Progress: Leg of the first sock is almost done!.
Brainstorming
Greyhaven Hat by Robin Ulrich. $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
Millie finished the headband she'd started for Mom.
Riley made Mom a chemo hat on a knitting loom in craft class at school.
I cast on for a hat with the Plied Yarn we bought for Millie at the Farm Fiber Days event in January and handed it off to Millie to knit a hat for her Dad.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
Pigskin Party '23
Tune in to hear about:
Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up winners
Participation Prize Winners
Commentator Update
The mad dash to get all those points entered was in full swing on Saturday night (superbowl eve). As of the time I looked, players had entered 299 projects since the start of February!
On the boards, HikesandBikes (Nikii) shared their experience with a new approach to the tubular cast on where you use Judy's Magic Cast On. I'd seen this on Patty Lyon's instagram and was intrigued so I was super interested in what Nikii thought of it (as were others).
There's also been some talk of knitting and walking. Loonyhiker shared that when she knits and walks she has a lot of interesting conversations because people are fascinated that she can do it. Deafelis shared the hot tip that Lowes or Home Depot are great places to practice because the aisles are wide and the floors are smooth (so fewer tripping hazards). Azknitwit noted that an indoor mall might be a great place to practice too!
Finally, continuing with a recent theme about how yarn and how many projects to bring when traveling, Socalknit girl shared a sad cautionary tale of how to recover when disaster strikes the one and only project you brought on vacation.
To make a personal donation, you can use this link
Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser.
I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
More About This Project:
February 9th is my mom, Diane Lassonde’s, birthday. Diane came up with the idea for the FearLESS Living Fund when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in December 2021. Since then, each birthday we celebrate with her is precious and this year, with your help, I want to make her birthday month even MORE special by raising funds for this charity she’s created.
The FearLESS Living Fund picks up where the Blind Center of Nevada’s services leave off, helping their outstanding clients to live more fearlessly in pursuit of their dreams. In 2023, we gave out over $9,000 in scholarships. You can watch a video of the event here. With your help, we can raise even more.
Contest, News & Notes
New Videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
Diane Lassonde Health Update #10 including more background on the FearLESS Living Fund inspiration with videos from the Blind Center of Nevada and more information about our February Fundraiser.
Check out this video with Lisa from Fibernymph Dyeworks about the FearLESS Living Fund and her custom colorway- Dream Big
Check out this video with Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz about the FearLESS Living Fund and their custom colorway- FearLESS
Life in Focus
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
In sorting jewelry with Mom, I found a pair of gold earrings and a necklace that coordinate; both have hearts on them. I've been wearing them most of the time and loving them. Connection to her and to my word, which is a million times better than any of the items I was looking at on Etsy.
I hung the heart collage photo poster in the dining room with painters tape! Let's not overcomplicate things!
24 for 2024 list
Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January.
Make & assess goals each month of the year - Jan done
Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund
Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items. Bought a beautiful box to put items in. Store in hutch in diningroom where I work most days.
Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
Add one new indoor plant to my collection
Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
Publish at least one new pattern
Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
Make a Christmas afghan for the living room
Take a class
Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
Go skiing
Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list
Do something special for our Anniversary in May
Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
Buy a new blow dryer.
Get my car detailed
Buy new curtains for living room Ordered 3. We picked one! I ordered more, they arrived and we hung them up! YAY!
Try a new local restaurant
On a Happy Note
The whole family went to Garret's hockey game and out for dinner after.
I've been trying out Dinnerly meal kit delivery service. So far, I'm really enjoying the 2 meals a week I'm getting. The food is fresh and the portions are generous. If you'd like to try it, you can use this link to get a free box. There is a limit, so don't wait. If the link doesn't work, please email me and I can get a unique offer sent to your email address.
Birthday dinner at Mom's on her actual birthday with Mom, Dad, Jeff and the kids + Dan.
Dad & Riley lipsyncing to Taylor Swift. Hilarious!
Birthday dinner for birthday twins, Diane & Hattie. Karaoke, hair shaving, presents, cake and lots of silliness.
I planted amaryllis from a bulb that was gifted to me and its flowering beautifully! I'm so excited.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Apr 2022
Episode 231: Wordle, Geometry & Travel Adventures
00:49:58
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 231 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes check out: www.downcellarstudio.com/231
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Wordle
Pattern: Wordle by Ham & Eggs (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Peapod (Green), Loops & Thread Impeccable in True Gray, Rowan Purelife in Alder Buckthorn (Mustard), Red Heart Super Saver in White
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Directions tell you exactly how to make the format they show in the pattern or you can create your own. I chose to use one of the Riley’s actually Wordle days using a screenshot she sent me.
I did the bottom row as one strip instead of five squares. When I joined the columns, I ran a slipped stitch down the existing stitches to match where I seamed up the previous rows
I didn’t weave in any ends. I tucked them inside snd tied some of them together. I did one round of white to edge the front piece. Then seamed together the front and back together with sc with right sides facing out.
I made the back piece in gray. I dont think that’s what was called for in the pattern.
He has safety eyes and two little white arms.
Riley is calling him Stove- after the winning word I based it on. She wants me to embroider STOVE on the back so we don’t forget his name
If you’re looking for a great book for a child in your life- check this out. It’s beautiful!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
April 2015- I knit the sample for my Trickle Shawl pattern.Ravelry Link. LoveCrafts Link. $5 US Knitting Pattern
Knitting in Passing
Riley wore her Everyday Cardigan in Merino Number 5 by Loopy Mango. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 May 2023
Episode 254: Making, Wearing, Traveling, Sharing
00:37:33
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 254 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Some Years Later
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Thanks to Riley, our special guest co-host this week!
Off the Needles
Winter Mint Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Winter Mint Colorway (Yarnable December 2022)
I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon.
3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
Bought 2 grab bags of minis from Legacy Fiber Artz and some yarn from Knit Picks with a gift card I got for my birthday. Minis from CT Sheep & Wool and Maryland S&W
Thanks Nicole (ndoyle) for the care package for Riley that included a Crumbl cookie cutter and minis for Riley to make more hexis out of. You can check out our Crumbl taste test in this video.
About the Fluffypuf braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
I purchased 4 oz of 100% Rambouillet from Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks at CT Sheep & Wool. I split it in two. 2 oz already spun. I will plan to do a 3 ply
Shock Star Hat
Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway
About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
Progress: Almost done with the first leg.
Scrappy Helical Socks
Yarn: various fingering scraps
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
I tried to weave in ends as I went and I wasn't loving the look of it. My friend Nicki suggested Cate's Clasp Weft Join after starting new yarn. I thought of it but talked myself out of it, thinking it wouldn't work well. It totally does! Let me know if you'd like to see a tutorial on it.
Progress: just finished heel on second sock
Ninja Turtle Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.
About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green
Progress: Turned second heel
Riley is knitting on her Riley Rose Cowl (pattern by me, named for her) out of Goosey Fibers Yarn. You can get this pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts. She is also practicing working flat in double crochet using Knit Picks Brava yarn.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty adventures
This weekend, I had my first go at needle felting. It was a lot of fun!
Some Years Later
Me Made May has me wearing my handknits and posting on Instagram.
Mom & I spent Thursday through Monday in Maryland, attending Yarncentrick on Friday & Maryland Sheep & Wool on Saturday. Stay tuned for a 2 part vlog series on my YouTube Channel
KAL News
Splash Pad Party Registration opened May 1st. Sign up using this Google Form.
My new shawl pattern, the Mas Vida Shawl is coming soon!!
Mas Vida is a simple sideways shawl that is written for 2 skeins of fingering weight yarn but can be knit up in any yarn you choose. There isn’t a single purl in the project, and the eyelets are easy to work. Many of you will only need to reference the pattern occasionally once you understand the basic increases and increase repeats.
I designed this to take along on a European vacation. I wanted something with a bit of interest, but that wouldn’t be too large, wouldn’t require too much brain space and that wouldn’t work up too quickly (as smaller travel projects tend to do). -
Note - This pattern has already been Tech Edited & Test Knit, so it should be smooth sailing!
On a Happy Note
I went to see Irish comedian Tommy Tiernan with Megg, Tom & Matt.
Seeing my 11 year old niece perform in Matilda.
Zach’s 1st birthday dinner.
Riley got 2 awards in her last dance competition of the season!
Quote of the Week
Do not look back. And do not dream about the future, either...Your duty, your reward—your destiny—are here and now.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Mar 2022
Episode 228: What's Old is New Again
00:56:56
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 228 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos check out my website by clicking here.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Megg’s 40th Birthday Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn in Raspberry Cream Colorway (from my Yarnable February 2022 Subscription Box). Check out my YouTube Unboxing Video here.
Unicorn for Millie’s 10th Birthday
Pattern: Unicorn Amigurumi by Amy Faulkner 4.90 Euros. About $5.50 crochet pattern (US & UK terms) Available on Etsy.
Hook: C (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver (white). Knit Picks Brava Worsted Minis (tail & mane)
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Pumpkin Patch Socks
Pattern: TBD
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here.
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Can’t really wear it with a coat but I do wear it several times a season in fall/winter/early spring. Add some fun jewelry, leggings, heels. great for a date night. Great for chilly winter day when you just want to be wrapped up in many layers!
Curls: Versatile, Wearable Wraps to Knit at Any Gauge- book details on the Pantsville Press website.
Knit Feb-April 2015
My project notes do not say, but think I used close to/all of fingering weight skein and yet it wasn’t big enough to wrap around my neck and stay put.
In the end, I frogged it to use the yarn for something else.
Knitting in Passing
Stephanie @farmsteadknits on Instagram sent mom a very special car package including a pair of handknit socks & a shawl. Shawl pattern: Around Every Corner by Stephanie Lotven (tellybeanknits). Check out Stephanie’s Ravelry Project Page for full details. Yarn: Sea Panda Yarn- click here for their website. Looks like their Blue Lagoon Mini Set.
In My Travels
Russell's Garden Center- March 2022 Farm Fiber Days Event
Checked off another item on my 22 for 2022 list- check out new trail. I’ve also done yoga several times in March- towards my goal of doing yoga every month.
On a Happy Note
Garret had a scare with appendicitis but didn’t need emergency surgery!
Booked basics of our trip to Ireland, Scotland and Barcelona.
Millie’s Birthday Weekend
Dinner in an igloo with a tiki theme
Decorated for Easter
Quote of the Week
People pay for what they do, and still more, for what they have allowed themselves to become. And they pay for it very simply: by the lives they lead.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Jan 2023
Episode 247: Socks & Scraps
00:48:47
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 247 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show Notes including photos please click here to visit my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles
Cascade Heritage Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in Colorway 111 Aqua
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Contrast heel- mini skein in a beautiful solid teal. I did a little colorwork on the foot that I'll share more later.
This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
1st Strip is finished progress. 11 squares wide. Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
Some of this is spirit yarn from my friend Kim's SIL's stash that I received after she passed away (purple). I'm not sure where the pink yarn came from, but it might have been my Nana's stash. It feels great to put it to good use.
Musselburgh Hat
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash in a denim blue (can't find the ballband)
Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
I found that I liked working this hat in the round. Purchased Addi Rocket Lace Turbo 16 inch needles in US 2 (but it turns out its technically a US 2.5 or a 3.0 mm needle- not a 2.75 mm needle like I use for the cast on). The difference isn't all that noticeable but it was a little frustrating.
Progress check- I have finished the increases and have knit about 4 inches.
Plan: Switch colors half way through. I have a lighter blue skein from On the Round that I purchased at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland, MA that I want to use to make it a reversible hat.
Solstice Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Progress- turned heel on first sock. Cast on the second sock.
Brainstorming
My Grandmother called to ask me to knit her another Jean Marie Shawl (named for her). You can find this knitting pattern for $6 on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
Here's the story:
My grandmother called me in mid-January 2023 saying she needed to place an order. I thought she wanted something from Amazon.
She told me very time she wears her Jean Marie Shawl to dinner at her residence she gets tons of compliments. All of her friends love it. Its the right size and it just stays in place perfectly.
I published this pattern in 2018 to suit the request that she have a slightly bigger shawl that would stay in place. Half hexagon shape is perfect for this. It is knit in 3 sections, originally done in sport/dk natural yarns from Ross Farm in browns/tans. For this one, she wants white/black to wear with different outfits.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
Wearing lately:
Felicity Hat: Aran weight slouchy hat knit in Duck Duck Wool. Ravelry Project Page.
Sagamore Flyover Slouch Hat: chunky weight hat. Ravelry Project Page. Yarn: Sugarbush Dawson in Colorway- Wild Willow, a great mustard color. 50/50 llama/wool blend
Knitting in Passing
Sunday night hang. Taught megg single and hdc. Knit a little with Hattie while Dan untangled Hattie’s yarn again. Untangled same ball in Ireland. She’d been using it to create a laser course.
KAL News
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Spread the Warmth Challenge; runs through the end of the Pigskin Party. Get details in this Google doc or this Ravelry Thread.
Pigskin Ends on Monday February 13, 2023. Get those projects entered. Don't wait until the last day to get everything entered on the Google Form!
Events
Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram hosted by CreativeCeci
Contest, News & Notes
My college roommate and friend Jen opened an Etsy Shop called JLSCreative Shop. Check it out
Mom & I recorded an update video that went up on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel in the Just Breathe Playlist. You can find that video here. Right now, scans show things are going well and the combination of chemo and gene therapy is keeping the cancer at bay.
Life in Focus
23 for 2023 List
Read 23 books
Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes
Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos
Kayak in one new place
Hike in one new place
See 4 plays/musicals
Give blood at least 3 times
Knit myself a pair of mittens
Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun
Watch 3 movies in one day - done!
See a movie in the theater
Go to a museum
Finish 1 punch needle project
Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4)
Try at least 1 new gym/in person fitness option
Make at least 1 new financial investment
Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46.
Publish 1 knitting pattern
Send 5 cards to friends/family just because
Go Camping
Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
Take a class (in person or virtual)
Create a new music playlist
Word of the Year- FLOW
flow
to proceed smoothly and readilyto issue or move in a stream
To exist in abundance
the continuous movement of a liquid in one direction
to hang loose and billowing
To move or proceed with a given movement or momentum
To pass or move by
a supply of something that continues without stopping
a way of talking or thinking in an easy natural way, without any pauses or difficulties
a smooth uninterrupted movement or progress
Smoothness or fluidity in one's movement
A strong, regular repeated pattern of movement or sound
Things I'm thinking about:
I want to be able to go with the Flow no matter what this year brings.
I want to remember my dear Aunt Florence and remind myself what she would do. She was smart, caring, generous and strong. Her presence will be a good guide when things get tough.
I want to find projects, especially creatively that I can keep up the flow with... that I can get into a flow state with. To zen/bliss out and enjoy.
I want to keep my body strong and stretched so that I can move fluidly through the year without things getting in the way of my body's flow.
On a Happy Note
Playing the sock game during our visit to the Rowan's. UK/European game. Fun for all ages.
Surprise package from Nicole with mini skeins.
Snow! Not a lot for as late into the season as we are, but I enjoy it.
Visit from family friends who came down from NH. We played games at my parents' house!
January Zoom with my Patrons! I had a blast catching up with you.
3 movies in 1 day- checked off my 23 for 23 list. Homemade popcorn. Lots of knitting and crochet time. Fixed dropped sts in Megg's socks.
Drag show and dinner with Megg and Kris.
Quote of the Week
Everything and everyone at their own pace. Flow with not against yourself.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Apr 2022
Episode 230: Unicorns, Spaceships & Mermaids
00:42:54
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 230 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out show notes with photos on my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Kim’s Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool.
Spun one braid. I have one more to go.
Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis.
Planning to ply these together with Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues. Already plied some of this with two other singles.
Riley’s Christmas Cardigan
Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear about our trip to Newport, Rhode Island for my cousin’s wedding
We enjoyed a visit to Newport Vineyards for cocktail hour Friday night.
We got breakfast at Diego’s on Saturday morning. Tip: get a reservation and order the Diego’s Huevos
Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon
Events
The Knit Girls Stash Dash usually starts in May! Stay tuned.
Ask Me Anything
I received a couple questions asking about how Mom is doing after her lung cancer diagnosis in December 2021. Tune in for more. You can also check out the video we shared in March, if you want to hear/see more.
On a Happy Note
My friend Laura came for a visit. We celebrated our friend Kris’ birthday with shopping and dinner.
I went for my annual physical and mammogram! PSA- don’t put off those doctor’s appointments. It’s important.
I am enjoying the signs of Spring!
Went for mani pedis with Mom and Trish
My Cousin’s Wedding in Newport!
I booked weekend getaway with Riley and Aila for their 14th and 13th birthdays.
Wordle text chat with my family
Quote of the Week
Learning how to be still, to REALLY be still and let life happen- that stillness becomes radiance.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 May 2023
Episode 255: Event-Full Summers
00:48:48
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 255 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Carmen Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Gusto Wool Carmen Sock Weight Yarn (80/20 Merino/Nylon) in Colorway 1402
This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
Progress: 3 strips finished. 1 more started.
Summer Scrappy Helical Socks #2
Yarn: various fingering scraps
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
I purchased this as a Micro Sock set; 50g of main color + a 20g mini. I also had another LFA mini that I liked with it, so I have green and purple to choose from.
About the Fluffypuf braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
I purchased 4 oz of 100% Rambouillet from Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks at CT Sheep & Wool.
I will plan to do a 3 ply
Update this episode: I broke my new driveband! Will replace w/ kitchen cotton yarn for now
Brainstorming
With the announcement of the Legacy Fiber Artz MAL, I decided to wind up all of my LFA minis on the sparkle base to knit some scrappy, helical, clasp-weft sparkle socks!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Friday night we had dinner at Water Street in Wiscasset, Maine
We loved the flowers and other exhibits too. One especially neat thing was The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses which made me think of Gretchin Rubin & her new Life in Five Senses book which I reviewed in Episode 254
Getting video messages from Riley about her crochet project! Riley joined one of our Patrons-only Zooms during the Splash Pad Party and that was a lot of fun!
Memorial Day weekend visits to my parents'. Mom shared a cool tip on how to clean jewelry which I'll share on Instagram. Sunday after the pool, the 4 of us headed to Matt & Kris' to celebrate Matt's birthday and Carly's birthday. I gifted her the Carmen socks I'd just finished! She's a skiier so I'm hoping she enjoys them.
On Monday, a bunch of my cousins and their kids came! We got a fun photo of 9 kiddos together on my parents' swing! The kids swam and ate ice cream. I played bocce with Garret.
Quote of the Week
In the beginning I was so young and such a stranger to myself I hardly existed. I had to go out into the world and see it and hear it and react to it, before I knew at all who I was, what I was, what I wanted to be.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 May 2020
Episode 184: Spin Spin Spin
00:52:00
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 184 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website www.downcellarstudio.com/184
Pattern: Moonrise Necklace by Sivia Harding & Ellen Sandin (knit)
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
Yarn: Vineyard Silk Classic – lace weight silk yarn came with kit.
Bought kit at Stitches West 2016. Emily (knittingbutterfly), Joanna Johnson and I went out to San Jose and were very kindly hosted by our friends the Knitmores- Jasmin and Gigi of the Knitmore Girls podcast. Thursday afternoon before the event actually opened that we had lunch with Sivia. When we dropped her back at her hotel we went up to her room and she showed us the kits for these beautiful necklaces and samples that were already made/in progress. Knew it was something my mom would love! She had a handful of colors to choose from and we got to pick what we wanted off her bed and buy them! When we got back to the car we all agreed that the exhilaration was intoxicating and decided this was the knitting version of a drug deal. We got such a kick out of it.
Kit had everything I needed- yarn, beads, the flosser to string the beads, clasp.
Love the way this came out. Think I’d have liked it with the 2.0 mm called for and perhaps with bigger beads a little better but I didn’t have that on hand. Pattern is well written and intuitive. It was easy to memorize the 8 row repeat and to read my knitting once the repeat was established.
Something new to me. Never knit with beads before. K1, place one. very easy.
Pattern available as a kit from Earthfaire (US $29.95). Kit includes pattern, silk thread, bead mix, and clasp.
I’ve done a bit of coloring and digital scrapbooking.
KAL News
Quarterly Quests!
Get all of the details here. Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before
Stash Dash starts May 22. Check out the Chat Thread in the Knit Girllls Podcast group
Contest, News & Notes
Point/Counterpoint Vol 5 Collection Available on Ravelry! Get our 4 accessory collection normally $18 for only $5 through 5/31/20 with code COLLAB. Click here for a link to the collection.
Micro Sock kits. Very affordable. 50g MC. 20g mini.
Brainstorming
All the design projects!
Knit Picks Felici socks
Stalking wide scarves that almost look a vest with big deep pockets at the bottom. Cozy Fireside Wrap by Kristen Caldwell- crochet pattern. Ravelry Link. Direct Website link.
From the Armchair
Vogue Knitting Live Virtual Class: How to Use Handspun for Knitting with Heavenly Blesser
Video chat with Millie on Facetime using funny filters
Dropped off an entire car load of donations to Savers.
Millie’s softball game & Oisin’s baseball game.
Tropical storm blew through and we didn’t lose power!
Met up with Lisa to plan out this year of the Pigskin Party!
Kayaking
Aila’s voice recital on a Family Zoom
Quote of the Week
Olympic gold medalist Wilma Rudolph
“Winning is great, sure, but if you are really going to do something in life, the secret is learning how to lose. Nobody goes undefeated all the time. If you can pick up after a crushing defeat, and go on to win again, you are going to be a champion someday.”
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 221 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.
Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Queen City Yarns. Use the code TOUCHDOWN to save 25% off all in stock items now thru Dec 15. Advent Calendars are not included.
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Little Frog
Pattern: Little Frog Toy by by Yulia Klyushina ($2.60 US crochet pattern) Available on Ravelry & Etsy
Hook: C (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in the Alfalfa Colorway (green) + white acrylic worsted yarn from stash
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Mr. Fezziwig Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
November Gratitude Bonus Ticket- get 500 tickets as a token of our gratitude by going to the Points Tally Form (Google Form) and choosing the November Bonus Ticket option by 12/1/21. Winner for November Interception to be Announced in Thread Soon. Will share winner on next episode. :
Fancy Footwork Challenge hosted by Shanalines Designs- Ravelry Link or Website Link
December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.
Check out Natalie’s patterns for ideas- Ravelry Link.
Live Event: 12:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 1st on the Knitty Natty YouTube Channel.The event with be a live cast on party + a live tutorial with tips for the knit Yarn Cozy Lite pattern
Monthly Scavenger Hunt: Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
November Scavenger Hunt Clues: will be posted soon on the Ravelry Forum & on my website. October Prize Winners (pressed for time last time so didn’t get to include these) Over 2k uses of the hashtag!!
Events
Vlogmas coming up on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel starting 12/1
Indie Design Gift-a-Long coming up: November 28-December 31, 2021
The sale period will run Tuesday, November 23 at 8 pm (US-EST) through Monday, November 29 at 11:59 pm (US-EST)
Need to have patterns that are discountable off Ravelry. LoveCrafts doesn’t allow this, so I’ll be looking into options so I can participate next year.
I’ll be teaching Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches starting in January.
Karen & Jessica of the Make Good Podcast are hosting a Sock KAL. Check out their website for details.
Windswept Monique of the Knitting on the Run Podcast is hosting her annual Be a Helper Craft-a-long. Check out her website for details or Monique’s Instagram Page.
Vogue Knitting Live in NYC in January 2022 has been canceled. They’re currently planning for: February 9–12, 2023
Stitches West: March 3-6, 2022 (proof of vaccination + masks will be required) in Sacramento, CA
On a Happy Note
Making cookies with mom
Thanksgiving!
Aila and Eme sleepover.
Tree decorating
Zoom with Patrons on Black Friday.
Breaking in my new MacBook Pro 14 inch
Dan scanning old family photos and showing them to me.
Nearly done Christmas shopping
House decorated for Christmas!
Quote of the Week
“With one kind gesture you can change a life. One person at a time you can change the world. One day at a time we can change everything.” ― Steve Maraboli
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Oct 2023
Episode 265: Red-Eyed & Bushy Tailed!
00:55:09
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 265 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
About this Project: I saw this on Instagram and knew I had to make them because "sneaky pumpkins" is a running joke for Liz, Riley and me. You'll find shots of sneaky pumpkins all through our Rhinebeck weekend videos on Youtube- Part 1 (Indie Untangled) and Part 2 (Rhinebeck).
I made 3 sets, one for each of us.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Liz's Socks
Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Progress- I finished the first sock in Vegas and half of the second sock at Rhinebeck. I'm beyond the heel on sock #2 now.
Christmas Stockings
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
FearLESS Living Fund: find all of our links to social media etc on this linktree.
We ran a silent auction and raised over $6k
Gave away the first two awards to Blind Center Clients. Video will be available soon.
Rhinebeck with Mom, Liz and Riley
Friday- we grabbed lunch then headed to Indie Untangled for the last spot of the day.
We got an AirBnB in Hudson that was adorable. Saturday we arrived at the Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck around 11a. We shopped until 2p meet-up. It was sS lovely seeing/meeting so many of you! We chatted for awhile- longer than Riley would have liked, I'm sure! See the video for candid reactions! Then we shopped until they closed.
Saturday night we had dinner at a lovely little place in Hudson - the Grazin' Diner.
Sunday morning we shopped with Lauren and her boyfriend Pete, then checked out the animal barns, bought more stuff!
I bought nearly all of the things on my "to purchase" list.
Check out Part 1 (Indie Untangled) and Part 2 (Rhinebeck) videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
WIPs Challenge- starting 11/10. Stay tuned for more details.
Contest, News & Notes
My cousin Linda's friend is looking for warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!
Life in Focus
Mom's October scans showed no changes! Cancer is stable at this time. She goes back again for scans in January!
Ask Me Anything
Shana asked about any recent Savers adventures. Tune in for a story that's more of a misadventure (spoiler alert- all ends well)
On a Happy Note
Vegas- pool day with sharks in the tank & dressing as the Sanderson sisters for the Gala.
Rhinebeck weekend. Great time with Mom, Liz and Riley. Liz did 100% of the driving and it saved me! I am so grateful. The 4 of us just got along so well and had so much fun. 2p meet-up. So many compliments on my sweaters- both Sat and Sun. Everyone loved Mom's sweater too. Found buttons for her on Saturday.
Sing-a-long on the drive home from Rhinebeck.
Liz found Mom's favorite blow up seat cushion when she dropped her fidget spinner under the seat and had to retrieve it!
Laura (lauraknitspa) brought her Abington Mitts to show me (Ravelry Project Page link)
I got to see our youngest niece and nephew- Gabriella & Zach when Dan and Oisin were over at their house putting in a new shed. We watched a Curious George Halloween Special that Gabriella was dying to show me, had a snack and read books in their tent before I had to go.
Dan & I attended a Clue (movie based on the board game) Party as Miss Scarlet & Mr. Green. After striking out at the thrift stores, I bought a dress on Amazon that was more perfect than I realized. Thanks to Mom, I had the perfect costume jewelry. Dan brought all sorts of props from home for the "weapons." Fun was had by all.
Quote of the Week
Daily life may seem trivial and routine, but in fact it contains a multitude of incidents, at once rich, expansive, and touching.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in Colorway 111 Aqua
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
I finished these before the last episode, but I didn't talk about the colorwork I did before each toe. One sock says "just" and the other says "breathe."
Mom's Jean Marie Shawl
Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Section 1: Dirty Water Dyeworks Lillian in Sea Breeze with Knit PIcks Capretta in Colorway 27636. Section 2: Dirty Water Dyeworks Lillian in Mediterranean & Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in Clair de Lune. Section 3: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in Clair de Lune with Art by Ewe Signature Yarn in the Sapphire Colorway (70% Baby Alpaca/ 30% Silk). Bind Off: Art by Ewe Signature Yarn in the Sapphire Colorway with a 20g mini of a teal fingering weight yarn (no ball band).
Held fingering yarn doubled and went up a needle size from what pattern calls for. Result is a slightly larger size than the original which was exactly what I wanted.
Cast on February 1. Finished on February 7. Blocked it, dry in time for Mom's birthday on the 9th.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl
Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each)
Check out this Instagram post that talks about the join I've been using for the end of each hex
4 rounds per hexagon
62 hexagons done as of now
Cloudy Rainbow Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Yarn Cafe Creations Biscotti Yarn (85% SW Merino/15% Nylon 4 ply) in the Thestrals Colorway (gray with blips of rainbow colors
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Cast on 60 stitches and worked 1/1 rib for 14 rounds. Knit about 2 inches and then reduced to 56 stitches (decreases like a toe- done at the beginning and end of each half of the sock).
I am working on the 2 of them in tandem. Each on their own magic loop.
I've been very tempted by the Leah Cowl by Susy Knotsosquare. Granny Stripe Crochet cowl with triangle point on front. Calls for DK weight yarn. Crochet pattern available for a little more than $5 US. Check it out on Ravelry or Etsy. You can also check out her Padme Cowl which is similar but different. Details available on Susy's website.
Generally just thinking about how when a project doesn't have an imminent deadline, I'm far less motivated to pick it up. "What's the point?" is often what comes to mind. It's an interesting thing to consider because the very same project, given a due-date will often excite me to pick up. Does this happen to you?
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
I worked with Millie on handmade Valentine cards for her classmates and teachers.
Millie also made a cute Flamingo from a Plush Craft kit we purchased at Michael's. Here's an affiliate link to a similar one available on Amazon.
I finished most of the border for the sheep punch needle project that I haven't picked up in more than a year.
Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller's 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details.
Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details.
On a Happy Note
Lunch with the girls, sundaes and popcorn and Tar at Mom's.
Mom completed another 3 day round of chemo. We got good news that her January scans show the cancer remains the same. No new growth!
My friend Laura came to visit for the weekend. We spent Friday night at my parents' hanging out and watching movies. We briefly lost power but it came back; cable did not, so thankfully we still had some more screener DVDs. Saturday, we hit some secondhand stores before going back over to Mom's for dinner with my parents, my brother and nieces Riley and Millie. The next day we visited Dan's friend Perry who was recently hospitalized and then to see his youngest brother Dave & our niece Gabriella and nephew Zachary.
Mom & I each got a haircut (real hair for me, wig for Mom).
On Thursday 2/9, we had dinner at Maggiano's for Mom & Hattie's birthdays before going to see Hamilton at the Boston Opera House.
Millie came for her 11th Birthday Sleepover (even though her birthday isn't until 2/20). She wanted to record some videos to share, so look for that on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel soon.
Quote of the Week
If you have a good idea, use it so that you will not only accomplish something, but so that you can make room for new ones to flow into you.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in the Blackstone Colorway- Black with maroons, grays, browns. Trying small. Only 4 sts different in collar than Medium but with Super Bulky that makes a difference.
December Daily. Memory Keeping project started by Ali Edwards where you tell 1 story a day each day in December. Won’t be doing a lot of our “normal” holiday things this year- put that time into documenting traditions and highlights of holidays gone by.
I’m thinking of doing Vlogmas this year. What do you think? What do you want to see?
Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.Check out the Ravelry Thread.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
VTKimmyKim- hosting a Netflix Party movie night on November 7th at 8:00pm EST. Movie= Wine Country. Check out this and other pop-up events in this thread in the Ravelry Group— or host your announce and share it here.
Sometimes during the game, a team needs to just call it like it is, switch up the direction of play and punt the ball to the other team. We’ve all gotten a lot of practice with punting things in 2020. For the November Interception sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works, we’re going to see what projects you need to punt to make them work for you. This challenge is all about making substitutions from what a pattern calls for as a way of making sure it works for you (your materials, your skill levels, your aesthetic preference etc).
For those of you who did our Pigskin Virtual Kick off Pre-game Stretch with Mara- just a heads up that Mara will be doing her first ever event with Vogue. Her stretching class for makers will be available as marketplace extra so if you’ve signed up for a class you can join in on this too!
The Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1, 2020. #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Started 9/22.
Kino Knits. Dumpster Fire 2020 Ornament(Ravelry Link) KAL. October 24-November 7, 2020. Post on public Instagram with #DumpsterFire2020KAL, and/or show proof of donating to your local food bank (no minimum – every little bit helps!)
Life in Focus
I had an invigorating chat with about planners and goal setting with my friend Melissa. I talked a little about how I’m doing things these days. Has the pandemic changed the way you plan your days/weeks/months?
Spent time with mom working on a memory keeping project for a friend. Looked through old photos and things while I was there.
2 trips to the library lately. Pick up quick visit only- can’t really stay and browse but that’s another thing off my 20 for 2020 list!
Foliage! I adore it
Getting back into working out after cortisone shot- inflamed sciatic nerve. Not fun. Back to regular massages though fear that will be cut off at some point with Covid numbers going back up in the US. Theragun daily seems to be making a difference in my most sore spots.
Boxing Day Bonus Shawl is being knit up by test knitters. SO excited about some of the color combos they’re using! My fav part. Folks often choose colors/combos I don’t think of.
Texting with my niece Eme who is away at college, photos she took for her photography class.
Texts from my SIL with my youngest niece Gabriella snuggled in the blanket I crocheted for her.
Cool weather for hand knits.
Happy mail- advent swap package! Check out For the Love of Minnies Group on Ravelry. Thank you Stephanie, not sure if you listen.
Also mailed an homemade yarn advent calendar to Sue of Legacy Fiber arts. She worked so hard on the ones for her shop. Doesn’t remember to keep one for herself. I figured she’s putting SO much joy out into the world, I wanted her to get some back. Had a BLAST working on it. SB supplies, stamping etc.
Quote of the Week
“Success is largely the failures you avoid. Health is the injuries you don’t sustain. Wealth is the purchases you don’t make. Happiness is the objects you don’t desire. Peace of mind is the arguments you don’t engage. Avoid the bad to protect the good.”
About the project: Hattie (age 5) saw a water bottle holder at the local refill store and asked for one. Her Mom, Megg texted asking if I could please make one for Hattie. The pattern is designed for an adult/larger sized water bottle so I knew I wanted to make mine smaller than called for in the pattern. I started in blue and increased up to about 38 sts around. Instead of double crochets, I worked half double crochets instead. 6 rows hdc, followed by 3 rows of (ch1, dc around) in purple. Then I repeated that in pink.
I had planned to do the strap half pink and half purple, but when I had Hattie try it on, it was too long (even though I had been accounting for a serious amount of stretch). She said it needed attention regardless because there wasn’t any blue in the strap. Noted. Thankfully, I’d anticipated my picky client and brought all three colors with me to the pool. I ripped back, adjusted the length, added some blue to the second half of the strap and voila!
80.2 meters for Stash Dash
Seeing Spirals Washcloth
Pattern: Seeing Spirals Washcloth by Lindsey Dale (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry or on Lindsey’s website)
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda’s website)
Yarn: YarnBaker Fingering in the Blazer Colorway & On The Round Nimble Sock (unsure of colorway)
Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on
Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
I used mattress stitch to seam all 6 strips together. I used white to do a dc border round, then a hdc round. From there I did a crochet pom pom border using 2 puff stitches that you fold over to make bobbles. I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket last summer (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.
I’ve been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon.
3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
Twin sized blanket is 60×80 inches. 17×22 hexis- 374.
Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
Progress: I started seaming!
3 Christmas Stockings
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Progress: I have 3 of the 4 front/back panels I need for the frist 2 done. The forth is onto the leg. I am going to crochet up 2 more and then iron them, and start seaming them.
LFA Helical Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway + 50g skein in a mystery colorway
About the colorways: both have a pink base. The mystery skein leans more to blues and purples. Portal has some brighter sky blues and bits of green and maroon. Together they just look like one beautiful colorway.
Progress: a few inches from the heel on the first sock
Zebra Stripes Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
1 stripe a day. So manageable– then I got to Vegas and realized I was using US 2 instead of US 1.5. Thought the gauge looked strange. Ripped back to cuff. I got off track after that.
20g mini in dark purple; used for cuff and will use for the heel.
Progress: I finished the first sock (did not use the mini for the toe). Cast on the second sock, using the mini for the cuff.
From the Armchair
Watching: Shrinking (on Apple TV+)I finished reading:
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
While in Phoenix with Mom, she, Merry & I took a day trip tour to Sedona through Detours. Nicki was our guide. First stop: Montezuma Castle. where the Sinagua people built dwellings into the side of the rock face. It was a 20 room, multi-story structure access via sets of wooden ladders.
Chapel of the Holy Cross – beautiful setting with nearly 360 views of the red rocks all around, beautiful face of windows on one end with a large statue of Jesus over the altar.
I shared in the last episode that my mother-in-law, Marilyn, passed away shortly before I left for Phoenix. When I returned home, we finished the of the plans and held her funeral mass that Thursday morning. Dan’s younger sister Kathy (and her husband Tony) came in from Florida and stayed with us as did my friend Laura (from NYC). We all met up for dinner on Wednesday night with Dan & Matt’s aunt who came in from Maine and 2 of her daughters and their families.
The services and lunch afterwards were beautiful. Readings and music were all specially chosen and read/performed by people she loved. Its was a beautiful send off. We had a small gathering after at my friend Megg’s house. She, Laura and I walked down to the beach just before sunset.
On a Happy Note
While Laura was in town we went for a late lunch with Kris and Megg at the Salt Society and then Laura, Kris and I got ice cream at Hornstra and Laura and I went on to see No Hard Feelings at the movies.
Saturday July 8th we had a big pool party for our friend Trish’s birthday. Fun day with all the kiddos before they head off to their various camps.
On Sunday, Dan’s friends came for a visit and brought us a delicious homemade strawberry rhubarb pie.
Monday night we did a double date night with Megg and Tom to The Snug, an Irish pub, for live music to catch up before they head to Ireland for summer visits.
Thursday I celebrated 20 years at Mass General with the annual Ether Day Dinner (normally held in October but ours was postponed) where they celebrate staff with milestones in 5 year increments from 20-60 years of service. Cocktail hour with live music followed by a delicious dinner for over 600 people! It was made especially fun because my dear friend Waveney and her husband Atticus were there- and Dan ran into a friend from work whose wife was also celebrating 20 years.
On October 16, 1846, the first successful public demonstration of the use of ether for surgical anesthesia was performed, making pain-free surgery possible.
Friday pool night. Meagan and Gayle, up from NH, brought resin/acrylic crafts and the fam decorated cutting boards and trays. I missed it but Dan and the others who learned are going to teach me.
Quote of the Week
We can take a wonderful vacation in spirit, even though we are obliged to stay at home, if we will only drop our burdens from our minds for a while. –Laura Ingalls Wilder Thank you for tuning in!Contact Information:
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15 Jul 2022
Episode 235: I've Got It Covered
00:50:14
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 235 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, check out my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Felici Socks (2 finished)
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Desert Rose (Ravelry Page), Bayou Colorway (Ravelry Page)
Bayou (greens and grays). 292.5 meters (10.5 inch foot and leg)
Desert Rose- (pinks, purple, dusty mustard/orange). 230.8 meters (8-9 in leg and 9.5 inch foot)
Marled Felici Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in White held double with Knit Picks Felici in the Bookshop, Rustic Cabin & Friendly Skies colorways
Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the body
6 skeins Felici + 12g of another to finish border. 634g of Brava worsted.
Border: sc around. hdc around. hdc through 3rd loop around.
32 inches wide x 48 inches long.
2,505 Meters for Stash Dash
Mom’s Breezy Cover-Up
Pattern: Easy Breezy Swim Cover by Megan Shaimes (free on the Meg Made with Love Blog or ad-free for $3.50 on Etsy).
Yarn: Wool & The Gang Shiny Happy Cotton in the Turquoise Waters Colorway (~8.4 skeins used)
Cast on Sunday July 10th beginning of Knitty Natty’s Sock Week. Check out her YouTube Channel if you haven’t already
Finished heel on Wednesday. Into the foot on Thursday.
You can still get your official logo bag and sock set on the Woolen Women Website
Brainstorming
Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay. Ravelry Link to Pattern. Blog Link. $6 US “Designed to utilise all those leftovers that seem too small to be useful, but too precious to throw away, this blanket can be made in any size and with any yarn weight.Use your chosen
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
A lady asked what I was knitting during the opening act of The Chicks concert. She said she’s an avid knitter too.
Helped a new hat knitter find needles in Michaels
I received a text from my friend Laura’s pilates client, David, of his bright Felici Socks in his work pants/shoes in a conference room in summer.
Need to post a photo of completed Bingo with #CCRRsummerbingo2021 to Instagram or Ravelry
Sock Week with Knitty Natty. July 10-17th. I’ll be co-hosted an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern! If you paid for the option that includes this -you can watch the replay!
The New York Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY will be held October 15 & 16, 2022
Life in Focus
I reviewed my: Word of the Year: Pause
Primary Goals:
Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts.
January: 19 workouts/4 weeks= 4.75 times per week.
February: 12 workouts/ 4 weeks= 3 per week
March: 13 workouts
April: 13 workouts
May: 8 workouts
June- 21 workouts
86= divide by 26 weeks of the years- 3.3
Say Yes to time spent with Mom – that’s going well!
Journaling. Major fail on journal except for tracking mom’s important health details, taking as many photos as I can, and doing my 1 line a day journal.
Ask Me Anything
Val asked if I’d seen any interesting wildlife on my walks lately. We have a new fawn in the yard. The hawks are especially loud! I found some interesting information on the Mass Audubon website. I think the ones near us are the Red-tailed hawks.
On a Happy Note
Laura’s visit. Pool day. Heidi’s for ice cream. Consignment shopping- where we scored, clothes, jewelry and a new/old mirror for our guest room which Dan hung this week.
Laura left Sunday of July 4th weekend. Dan and I worked around house Monday morning then enjoy the pool in the afternoon & dinner with fresh local corn with Mom and Dad.
The Chicks concert with Mom, Dad, Jeff and Riley- tailgaiting, sneaking in my knitting & singing our lungs out!
Trish’s 50th birthday at the Japanese Hibachi and pool day.
Dinner and pool night with Mom, Dad and Millie. Millie and I picked wild blueberries. I found necklaces that say Fearless for Mom, Riley, Millie and Me.
Quote of the Week
One discovers the light in darkness, that is what darkness is for; but everything in our lives depends on how we bear the light. –JAMES BALDWIN
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30 Sep 2022
Episode 240: Mojo
00:45:48
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 240 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Stormy Nanaimo
Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry or in kits on this website)
Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Storm Front colorway
Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm), US 15 (10.0 mm), US 19 (15.0 mm)
I messed up on a slipped stitch section in the decrease side, so I am going to continue it a few more times so it looks intentional, though you can hardly tell with the handspun.
Portal Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
A take-off on my Sagamore Flyover Hat available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
2021 Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
Should I cast on a Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron to match Mom’s at Rhinebeck? $10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry
Top down open front cardigan mostly stockinette w/ periodic purl ridges.
Mom’s is tunic length. I think I’d make my cropped to wear as a layering piece. Thinking mustard.
This blog post by Susanna Winter has a great formula to help you figure out holding strands of various weights of yarn together to equal a different weight of yarn.
Beth sent me Instagram stories from FashionSchoolDropOut who made one with worsted and 2 strands of sock. Changed colors after each purl bump.
Thanks to AJ for recommending Fundamentals of Caring with Paul Rudd (2016 movie). Available on Netflix. I’m planning to watch it soon.
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Knitting in Passing
Take Back Bags from For Days does accept yarn. Thanks Rachel Kashani.
Cost $20. They mail you a bag (takes 3 weeks to ship)
The Large Bag measures 24 in x 24 in and fits 15 lbs
Mail back with USPS. You will get a $20 credit to spend with them
KAL News
Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Thanks to everyone who participated in our Kick Off Events. Beth joined us from the hospital. AJ, from South Africa, and EJ from South Korea joined us from all sorts of crazy time zones! So great to see so many familiar faces in long time friends and to also get to know some of the newbies a little better.
Tailgate Talk -ended 9/23 but you can enter for your points through 9/30 on the Points Tally Form.
Fistbumps & Fives: Send some positivity to one of your Teammates, Opponents or Commissioners. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter your points by 9/30. Check out the details in the Ravelry Group or in this Google Doc.
Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.
Wool & Folk Event– October 14th from 12p until 7p in Kingston, NY. Tickets still available. $45. 25 vendors. Podcaster Patio. 5 podcasts represented Outdoors. Food trucks and music.
CAKEpalooza: October 14 from 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. with ticketed & timed slots in Saugerties, NY
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
14 May 2021
Episode 208: Mom is BACK!
01:04:11
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 208 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Playhouse colorway + other leftovers of Felici and other self striping yarn.
Started Oct 2019
Socks started ages ago. Did vanilla bean slipped stitch thing between stripes. Didn’t love them so I pulled back and just knit, then several stripes in, the yarn broke which broke up repeat. I took it as a sign to make them scrappy instead.
Make Good. Jessica & Karen in NH have a great knitting podcast from their LYS.
Crafty Adventures
I received an antique Circular Sock Machine (CSM) from my best friend’s Dad, who found it in their attic when they downsized a few years ago. I’ve spent time the past 2 weekends cleaning it but haven’t cast on yet. I found this video tutorial helpful as I think about casting on.
Knitting in Passing
We finally got to visit my grandmother at her new apartment in an Assisted Living community. Introduced us to her friend as her granddaughter- the one who knits all the shawls and socks! Her Jean Marie shawl is on the back of her chair.
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Stay tuned to their website for more details. This year I’m going to crush Jasmin again. Since I already have the Sash I think if I win this year I should get the rights to the tiny speech writer next year lol
Mom: “being able to see people.” She shared stories about visiting her cousin Susan and working on Genealogy with Aunt Florence, Linda & Trish.
Mother’s Day at Jen’s house.
Mom had a successful experience with Max Sold Auctions and will have more coming up soon.
Interested in trying it out? Use coupon code NESellers for no minimum for the first auction + $100 off the total commission if the auction makes more than $1,000.
Want to learn more about selling online- you can request to be part of Mom’s Facebook Group.
Quote of the Week
“Forget about the fast lane. If you really want to fly, harness your power to your passion. Honor your calling. Everybody has one. Trust your heart, and success will come to you.”
Worsted weight 50% Linen / Flax, 50% Cotton. 200 meters / 100 grams. Bought 4 skeins. Used a little more than 2
Size: Smallest (54 1/4 in bust) Calls for 16-22″ positive ease.
Added 1 repeat to front so I did end up joining a second ball of yarn but otherwise I didn’t alternate skeins and that looks ok.
Many project pages talk about adding short rows to the back which I will likely do, as I often find w/ cropped sweaters the back is higher and I don’t enjoy that. Forgot I thought about this and would have been happier if I’d done it.
Worried that sleeves would be tight, so I left that opening bigger and picked up and knit 54 sts around
I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.
Bobble Lines Baby Blanket
Pattern: Bobble Lines Baby Blanket by Daisy Farm Crafts (free option on Daisy Farm website & paid option available on Etsy. )
Hook: I (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Main Color: Lion Brand Pound of Love in White. Stripes in: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Blush, Lion Brand Baby Soft in Creamsicle, Lion Brand Ice Cream Big Scoop in Tutti Fruitti, Loops & Thread Impeccable in Coral.
Dawn to Dusk Triangle Shawl – side to side crochet triangular shawlette. Mom still wears hers and I think it looks great, but I don’t love mine. I think the acrylic yarn makes it look/feel cheap. I think I will donate mine.
I helped my Mom’s Infusion Nurse, Kathy, with a crochet baby sweater. She’s using a Goosebumps pattern from a YouTube video from the Simona Crochet channel.
I helped my 17 year old niece Eme pack up her room. It was fun coming across so many of the toys I made her over the years. She did let a couple of them go, at my insistence that if she didn’t love them now, that it was ok to let them go. She loved them for awhile and that was good enough. She also donated a sewn pillow monster that her mom didn’t want her to let go but because Eme has such a hard time giving up her treasures we both really resisted the urge to encourage her to keep things.
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details. They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
Want to get ready? You’ll need about 100g of self striping and 30g of a coordinating tonal/solid.
Life in Focus
I am not participating in Plastic Free July this year but tune in for a bit about what I think about the challenge and how you can make some changes in your life if that’s interesting to you! Check out the Plastic Free July thread in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
I was diagnosed with Lyme 2 days later (not so happy) but the silver lining is that there hasn’t been much sun to avoid while I’m on these nasty antibiotics.
We had a super fun Tuesday night/post-4th raincheck night pool night. Hattie, Garret and Millie went swimming then snuggling on the couch after dinner. Ice cream bars from Dairy Queen. Buster Bar with peanuts! Better than I remember which I think is rare when remembering things from childhood.
I worked with Eme to get in her papers to complete her second semester of college.
Maggie, Our friend’s daughter painted a deer for us to hang in our dining room!
Yarn swap with the Between Knits and Purls Ravelry Group: Merry Everything and Happy Always!
Quote of the Week
“I may not be where I want to be but I’m thankful for not being where I used to be.”
I knit cuff down, so it was a bit of project to cut off the top of the sock, unravel back to the stockinette. Worked back up and used Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off to finish them.
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda’s website)
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black
Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
Colin & Nora’s Christmas Stockings
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor
Yarn- speckles. Mostly reads pink/maroons. so many tiny specks of color. taupe, green, blue, purple, gray/brown.
Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock has several inches done on the leg
2021 Scrappy Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished + an inch or so of the leg. Helical knitting made these so much more interesting to me. Game changer.
First Point of Libra Cowl
Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn
Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here’s the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that’s now frogged.
Inspiration color= Barnyard Knits- Pricky Pear (multi- has grays, greens and pinks). Matches new long, green, quilted coat from J. Jill. Plus Fuse Merino Sock in Mercury Glass (gray) & Fuse in Radical Acceptance (pink)
I think this project would be great for small scraps because even though each section calls for X number of rows, you could easily modify it and have wider or thinner stripes in each direction.
Spinning
4oz of 100% Natural Cotswold purchased from Long Island Livestock Company at Rhinebeck for $20. Beautiful tan color.
No real plan or prep. Just enjoying the process.
Brainstorming
I’d like to make a fingering weight hat using yarns from the First Point of Libra Cowl to bring to the UK in November.
Found yarn for Megg’s next Nanaimo Cardigan for Christmas- Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Abalone Colorway. Ordered from Joann.com
From the Armchair
On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I shared stories about a women who took my knitting from me on the train and started knitting it herself, about how Hattie thought my Mom’s cowl was the funniest beard she ever saw, how I was recognized by a local knitting in the lobby of a theater during intermission and about a chat with lovely woman at my local nail salon.
In My Travels
Rhinebeck 2022: Mom, Ryan, Nicki & I had a whirlwind weekend at CAKEPalooza and Rhinebeck- the NY Sheep & Wool Festival. Come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of the trip in this video on the
In November I’m going to the UK. I’ll be visiting Manchester, Newbury & London, England & Cardiff, Wales. Do you have any tips or suggestions for me? Restaurants, shops, best ways to get theater tickets etc.
KAL News
Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
The October Interception Winner will be shared in early November in the Ravelry Group & in the next episode. Thanks again to Sunsoaked Yarns for hosting!
Rule update: you need to have a Unique URL for each submission. Check out this Ravelry Post for details. I’ve also updated the Official Rules.
This year we’ll have 10 grand prizes! Will share details in the group soon!
Life in Focus
Quick health update on Mom who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer on December 1, 2021. Her October scans showed new tumors in the pleura (lining) of her lungs which aren’t responding to her Tagrisso gene therapy medicine. They’ll be doing a biopsy to see if they can tell why it is resistant and perhaps there is another drug they can try. Since that will take about a month before we have results, she’ll be starting chemotherapy in the meantime. 1st infusion on November 4th. Send out all those good wishes.
You can check out the video we recorded together if you want to hear more. The first 40 minutes are really just a recap of our spring, summer and fall fun- complete with photos and videos.
Sharon of Knit Style Yarns just released her first pattern- Celtic Christmas Cowl ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) & kindly gifted me a copy. Thank you Sharon & congrats!
I went to see Sweeney Todd at Company Theater with Mom, Terri & Emelyn.
My cousin Colleen got married last weekend! She looked beautiful. The wedding was perfect. They had cider donuts instead of wedding cake! Mom & my 94 year old Aunt Florence who also has cancer, set Colleen’s wedding as their goal and they were both there with big smiles and so much energy. Dancing and laughing. We are all so grateful for that. Colin and Nora whooping it up on the dance floor. Colleen & her Dad dancing in the trolley all the way back to the hotel with Dan and my cousin Joanie’s husband using their phone flashlights to create a strobe effect!
Oisin and Dan working to cut and stack wood. Made Oisin a batch of applesauce even though I haven’t had time to teach him how to make it yet.
My cousins sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Total surprise.
20 years at my day job. Dinner celebration postponed but Dan and I look forward to going to that in early 2023. I got to pick out a gift from an online catalog. I picked an Air Fryer so hit me with your best vegetarian air fryer recipes!
Our contractor starting putting new railings on our deck.
We attended my cousins (Pat & Kevin’s) joint Surprise Costume Birthday Party. Mom, Dad, Dan and I dressed up in a Little Mermaid Theme!
We saw a local production of Guys & Dolls. Megg is a Hot Box Dancer. Oisin was a Gambler. They were both great!
Quote of the Week
There is the touch of November in the air, chill enough to have a slight tang, like properly aged cider. Not air that caresses, nor yet air that nips. Air that makes one breathe deeply and think of spring water and walk briskly.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Size Medium- finished circumference- 40 inches. Original length from underarm to bottom hem was 14.5 inches. Ripped back to 9 inches from underarm to hem.
I swatched with unknown Sweitzer yarn (likely worsted/aran weight). Blocked swatch is 15 sts over 4 inches on US 7s. 14 sts on US8s. I like the fabric, but am having a hard time finding a pattern that matches this gauge.
I’m also really in love with this knit dress. Pattern is the Schlossel Dress by Siga Lagamta Ravelry Pattern Page. Do you think it would look good on me?
Hosted by Beverly Baptiste and Jenny Hassler. They are looking to create a sewing community, will be hosting challenges, focus on sharing patterns from indie makers and size inclusive pattern designers.
I am now a Knit Picks Affiliate which means if you make a purchase using this link, I will get a small commission. It doesn’t cost you any extra.
Ask Me Anything
I receive a comment on the blog from Lisa suggesting a new segment on the podcast called “One Year Later” where I would “Revisit items you finished one year ago and discuss how they’ve held up. How is the yarn looking? Wearability? Does it get frequent use or is it time to frog it?”
This time I talked about my Soldotna Crop which I finished 2/29/20. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page. I used Brown Sheep Prairie Spun DK in two colors of gray and Daschinger Wools for yellow and turquoise. All non superwash. Worn many many times. No signs of pilling. No stretching. Love it!
I also talked about my Ice Time Mitts finished in early March 2020. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page knit in Cloudborn Fibers DK and Legacy Fiber Arts DK. I love the fit, the yarn still looks brand new. No signs of wear.
On a Happy Note
Millie is healing well after knee surgery. We celebrated and showed support with a parade/outdoor visit.
The night before I went to Mom’s where she, Trish and I made posters. So fun!
Mom & Dad each got their first Covid vaccine!
Celebrated Megg’s birthday. Workout in morning together. Dinner/fire together in the evening!
Longer days. 60 degree temps.
Quote of the Week
“Instead of asking how many tasks you can tackle given your working hours, ask how many you can ditch given what you must do to excel.”
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 253 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Zach’s 1st Birthday Teddy
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Dove Heather, Silver, Mint, Tranquil and Marina colorways
Hooks: D (3.25 mm) for stuffed parts & H (5.0mm) for Granny Square
Pattern: Theo the Teddy Bear from book: Snuggle & Play Crochet: 40 Amigurumi Patterns for Lovey Security Blankets and Matching Toys by Carolina Guzman Benitez
Progress: Turned heel of first sock and knit several inches on the foot during our trip to Nantucket
Musselburgh Hat
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
Yarn: YarnBaker Fingering in the Blazer Colorway & On The Round Nimble Sock (unsure of colorway)
Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Check out our 2 part Nantucket Vlog series on my YouTube Channel: Part 1 & Part 2
KAL News
Splash Pad Party Registration Opens May 1st. Sign up using this Google Form.
Thanks to test knitters testing my Mas Vidas shawl
Life in Focus
I checked off two things on my 23 in 2023 list
#1- Read 23 Books- now at 24!
#23- Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists.
On a Happy Note
Walking at the beach with Megg & Maria before Oisin's boat race. His team set the course record for the day!
Laura came in from NY that evening and joined us for Tom's birthday dinner.
On Sunday, I drove down to Orleans where Laura was house sitting to watch the Love is Blind "live" Re-union debacle on Netflix.
Training at the gym & the energy that comes with it!
Going w/ Riley and Mom to get our nails done before Nantucket. Riley took us for boba smoothies afterwards. We had a great time.
Riley was showing a friend a nail polish in TJ Maxx that looks like mine and it was the exact color of OPI I always get- Don't Bossa Nova Me Around- and she bought it for me. So sweet!
Nantucket! 4 day weekend was just the break I needed from work. The candy and cookie taste tests were a fun way to do something memorable without having to spend a ton of time or money.
Getting Mom to watch on Love is Blind
Watching The Sinner on Netflix with Dan.
Working on a slide show for my friend's son's Bar Mitzvah.
Quote of the Week
Writer and psychoanalyst Marion Milner on the work required to be happy:
"Let no one think it is an easy way because it is concerned with moments of happiness rather than with stern duty or high moral endeavour. For what is really easy, as I found, is to blind one’s eyes to what one really likes, to drift into accepting one's wants ready-made from other people, and to evade the continual day to day sifting of values."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Aug 2021
Episode 215: 9 FOs & Even More Fun!
00:50:25
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 215 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website by clicking here.
3 ply 252 yards /230 meters. 100g. Not as thick as I had hoped I could do, but its more like a DK than a sport, so I was at least moderately successful. Plumped up beautifully in washing.
Edging- first round done using granny cluster on long edges as described in pattern. hdc around in Macadamia & then a sc round in blue and a picot edge in brown.
7.56 skeins- 710.2 meters
V Stitch Baby Blanket
Pattern: Baby Blanket by Annemarie Benthem (free pattern on LoveCrafts).
Hooks: L (8.0 mm) to chain/set-up and J (6.0 mm) for body.
Yarn: Lion Brand Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton in Almond, Macadamia, Pistachio, Dusty Blue and Blueberry.
Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. Check out the pattern using this Ravelry Link or Website link. ($8 knitting pattern).
I pulled out Pigskin ’21 sponsor products. 2 WoolensandNosh self striping plus some from FIbernymph Dye Works, Mint Rain and agirlandherwool. And lots of bags too of course.
Pigskin ’21 Sponsor Patterns Bundle on Ravelry– 1005 patterns to choose from!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Checked out a brewery up in NH- Hobb’s Brewing Tap Room on Rt 16 in Ossippi, NH
We did taste tests of whoopie pies (vanilla versus chocolate filling) and Jax cheese puffs vs. Cheese Doodles cheese curls – helped me get a second bingo for the Craft, Cook, Read Repeat Podcast Summer Bingo event.
We helped move some things out of Gayle’s Camp as she closes up to move. I was thrilled to take this beautiful embroidery piece that Gayle made home with me.
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Keep an eye out for Queen City Yarn who will be offering DK hat kits for some of my patterns.
On a Happy Note
Running is going really well!
I saw not one but 2 bucks in a nearby yard!
Dan and I did a big basement clean out and Savers donation run.
My friend Laura came for her first visit since Covid. Antiquing overload!
Getting texts from my SIL with cute photos of our niece Gabriella playing with the teddy I made for her birthday and the Baby Yoda I made her for Christmas.
August Zoom with Patrons! So much fun.
Pool night at my parents with my brother’s kids and my mom’s friend Trish. Silliness with Snapchat filters.
Dan and I had a blast at Camp. A great kick off to my vacation.
Quote of the Week
“Make your heart like a lake with a calm, still surface and great depths of kindness.”- Lao Tzu
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Aug 2023
Episode 261: 10th Annual Pigskin Party
00:49:49
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 261 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Thank you to this episode's sponsors:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Sweet Liberty Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet Liberty Colorway (July 2023 Yarnable Colorway)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate's Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
From Amazon, I ordered Black Buckles to allow for adjusting the length of the strap.
My friend Liz was walking around sightseeing on a recent trip to St. Louis and mentioned she may need a water bottle holder like the one I made for Hattie (Ravelry Project Page).
I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon.
3.75 inches each.
Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
Final blanket- 15x22 hexagons with 5 rounds of single crochet for the border.
62x80 inches (twin size- 60x80 inches)
Finished blanket- 11,392 meters
Stash Dash total on the morning of 8/31/23= 21,064 meters (before counting my last spinning project).
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Wild Air Farm Spinning
I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
Progress: morning of 8/31- spinning is complete. Plying will be done this afternoon, but I can't measure the finished yarn until it is washed and dried.
My Little Unicorn Socks
Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater. Yarn from Sweitzer's Fiber Mill from Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023. My gauge swatch in progress. I started with US 8s, then did a purl bump row and switched to US 9s. Please send your suggestions of relatively simple cardigan pattern for worsted/aran weight yarn.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Liz, Riley and I went to the Marshfield Fair. We spent a good bit of time inside the exhibition building looking at flower arrangements, plants and other crafty items that were given awards. Lots of knitting and crochet projects as well as quilts. While the plants and things were really accessible on tables, it was nice to see that the fiber crafts were behind a low railing so you couldn't touch anything.
Teams will be announced on 9/1. Stay tuned to the Ravelry group and look for the "find your teams" thread.
Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
Virtual Kick Off Weekend
Thursday night for Patrons only. Patrons of every level will be invited to join. For the rest of the seaon, only those at the $5/month level and up are invited to our monthly hangouts.
Friday September 8 & Saturday September 9th, events will be open to ALL.
Do you have ideas for challenges or events for this season? Share your ideas in this Ravelry Thread.
Does anyone want to be a correspondent and report in before each episode with some key stats or highlights from the games, interesting post or projects? Email me or DM me on Instagram if you're interested.
On a Happy Note
Beach walk and dinner w/ Megg & Kris.
Breakfast with Mom & two of her Infusion nurses we've known for years.
Marshfield Fair with Liz and Riley. We watched part of the demolition derby, played some games and listened to music.
Dan and I went Kayaking with Megg, Oisin, Hattie and Will, then got food from the Hingham Lobster Pound and chilled at the Rowan's.
We celebrated my grandmother's 89th birthday with a fun brunch at The Friendly Toast
I went to see Oppenheimer at the movies with Liz. Then to see Barbie (for the second time) with Liz and our Mom's who hadn't seen it yet. We met early for a drink, all wearing our pink. They loved the movie.
Dinner the night before Eme left for school then Megg and I brought them out to Simon's Rock for their 3rd year. It was a long day- 6 hours of driving + unpacking, organizing, a late lunch and snacks in the car singing all the way home.
Riley found "Make Dolly Proud" tees while shopping w/ a friend and I sent her money to get them for us. She's making WWDD bracelets for us too!
5 of the nieces and nephews started school + Gabriella started pre-school so far. FaceTimed with Riley and Gabriella & Zach
Quote of the Week
"Most people fail in life not because they aim too high and miss, but because they aim too low and hit."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Mar 2023
Episode 251: Spinning 'round
00:52:47
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 251 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.
Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Aggie, Alexis, Alicia, Beth, Erica, Haidi, Kristina, Rachel, Rachel and Steph
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl
Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each)
About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Musselburgh Hat
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague ($7.77 US/ 6 GBP knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on Ysolda's website)
Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash in a denim blue (can't find the ballband)
Needles: US 2 (2.75) circular- 32 in (magic loop for beginning & end of project & US 2 (also called US 2.5) 3.0 mm 16-inch circular for the body of the hat
Plan: Switch colors half way through. I have a lighter blue skein from On the Round that I purchased at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland, MA that I want to use to make it a reversible hat.
Ninja Turtle Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
Fiber: 4oz braid of BFL from Frabjous Fibers in the Rainy Day Rainbows Colorway
Description- long stretches of light gray punctuated with shorter blips of rainbow colors
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
I bought a new poly drive band for my Kromski Minstrel from Spinning Bunny on Etsy that I heard about on a Kromski Spinning Wheel Owners message board on Ravelry.
Finished spinning all 4 ounces. I would like to ply with other gray fiber.
Wild Air Farm Fiber
Fiber: 3.9 ounces of Shetland & Pygora from Wild Air Farm. Tag indicates "Melody & Cadence" which I presume are the animal names. 1 bump in green, 1 bump in blue
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
I finally got around to hanging up items to create a collage wall in the Down Cellar Studio.
Knitting in Passing
While knitting on my Musselburgh Hat at Oisin's show, the women behind me asked me at Intermission what I was making because she's a "big knitter." I explained about the hat and what a sensation the pattern was. It was nice chatting with her.
KAL News
The Annual Splash Pad Party is ON for this summer. Save the dates for virtual kick off events Friday & Saturday May 26-27th
Call for sponsors going out soon. Sign up for my email newsletter & check the box for getting Sponsor emails if you want to be the first to know about available sponsor spots.
Participant sign-ups will start in May.
Events
Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller's 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details.
Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details.
I will have a new shawl pattern ready for test knitters soon. I think I will run the test on Ravelry because it's what I know and is easiest and life is still a little challenging for me right now, so thank you for giving me a little grace.
Life in Focus
Tune in for my update on 23 in 2023.
Any tips for brands/types of fake eyelashes to try?
Skiing didn't happen this year. Sigh.
I'm making good progress of reading, going to musicals, sending cards and going to the movies!
I celebrated the 11 year anniversary of the Podcast with a quick look back at Episode 1!
On a Happy Note
Follow-up after Mom's recent scans show things look good. She & Dad headed off to Florida for vacation.
Dan & I helped Dad replace their broken TV and we had a nice dinner together.
My cousin Susan's annual St. Patrick's Day Party with birthday cake for my cousin Christopher whose baby I met for the first time that day and a Bailey's toast to my dear Aunt Florence.
Picked up Riley and Millie to go meet Mom & Trish for mani pedis before Mom & Dad headed to Florida on Vacation.
Seeing Oisin play Shrek in Shrek Jr. at his Middle School.
Girls Game Night at my cousin Joanie's house
Going back to Zumba before my old gym closes.
I had my annual mammogram and thought there was cause for concern but ultrasound proved everything is normal! PSA: Get those boobies checked!! It's important.
Quote of the Week
I realized I was as happy as I’d ever been in my life. It was the happiness of the right-before, when everything is potential and no branch on the tree of possibility has yet been closed off by action.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 May 2024
Episode 278: Game ON!
00:46:21
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 278 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
Dan's friend Chris' wife asked for this for her husband (he excitedly agreed). He's a brewer and manager at one of our local breweries, Vitamin Sea, so maybe he'll sport it to work.
Meters for Stash Dash: 120.7
Total for Stash Dash meters for this episode: 667.1 meters
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Vera's Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall.
Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link.
The patterns for this kit will be the Northeasterly Blanket by Melissa Alexander-Loomis (knit version) and the Northeasterly blanket by Katy Stevens (crochet version).
Progress: I finished 5 (of 9) my May squares.
Static Musselburgh
Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & on Ysolda's website)
Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway
Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one.
Progress: Started in July of 2023. Past the cuff of the second sock when I picked them up. I knit the leg and heel over Memorial Day Weekend 2024.
Trish's New Orleans Socks
Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34.
Progress: at the heel of the first sock
Julia's Cozy Clusters Blanket
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Hibiscus Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Orange for the border)
I initially bought 2 skeins based on the size of a similar blanket I made with this pattern, but after coming to the end of the first skein I knew it wouldn't be large enough. I probably should have/could have used an I hook.
2 row repeat that is easy to memorize. Almost done with the 3rd skein. Plan to finish the first week of June.
Brainstorming
Took a chair off the side of the road- the arms are ripped at the front but the rest looks great, so I am going to crochet covers for the arms!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Aila and I drove out to Great Barrington for Eme's Associate Degree graduation ceremony. We enjoyed dinner at Steam and an ice cream afterwards. In taking Eme to pick up their pottery pieces for the year to bring home, I got to see and hear all about it!
At the graduation ceremony the next day, I was chatting for awhile only to look up when asked what I was knitting to see Crispina French, who I know from her vending at Rhinebeck! Talk about a small world!
Tour de Fleece- check out this Ravelry Group for official details. Saturday, June 29, 2024 through Sunday, July 21, 2024. Rest Days: Monday, July 8 and Monday, July 15. There are challenge days, Teams and prizes.
Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
I give a quick update on my word of the year HEART, which I've been seeing hearts in/on the trees lately! I share a quick goals update and a health update about my parents.
On a Happy Note
Dan and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary on May 22nd- the 143rd day of the year (which happened in 2024 only because its a Leap Year- usually Day 143 is May 23rd).
Minot's Light Lighthouse's light signal, a 1-4-3 flashing cycle adopted in 1894, is locally referred to as "I LOVE YOU" (1-4-3 being the number of letters in that phrase), and it is often cited as such by romantic couples within its range.
Friday of Memorial Day Weekend we went out for dinner (to use up a gift card- which we still had $1 left on when we left) and to a friends' house for a fire.
Saturday & Sunday pool days
My niece Riley got her learner's permit and drove us home from the grocery store!
Teddy and the snorkel (so cute)
Baby Vera's first swim
The long weekend allowed me the extra day off to clean out our pantry and my closet. I switched out my winter clothes for summer ones, took donations to Savers and did shopping and meal prep for the week. It felt great.
Deer and turtles abound!
Quote of the Week
Writer and designer Edith Wharton, the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, on what causes old age:
"The producer of old age is habit: the deathly process of doing the same thing in the same way at the same hour day after day, first from carelessness, then from inclination, at last from cowardice or inertia.
Habit is necessary; but it is the habit of having careless habits, of turning a trail into a rut, that must be incessantly fought against if one is to remain alive... one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things, and happy in small ways."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Dec 2022
Episode 245: Christmas Craziness!
01:03:49
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 245 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
In my Travels
KAL News
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Lucy the Fox
Pattern: Lucy the Fox by Banga Vaicekauskienė ($3.90 crochet pattern available on Ravelry and Etsy)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White, Black and Orange
Pattern: Improvised using the basic instructions from Lucy Collin's Han Solo pattern. Pattern no longer available for individual sale. You can find it in this book available from Amazon (affiliate link).
Yarn: Green- Spunky Eclectic Victoria in the Ginko Colorway. Cream- Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Cloud. Brown- Cascade 220 Superwash.
Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
Mock i-cord edging with garter stitch for the center. Small number of increases at the beginning and decreases at the end. Will have to see if we want to add some icords onto the sweater to hold the belt or not.
Wave of Change Jacket
Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($9 US knitting pattern)
Yarn: Battenkill Fiber Mill Yarn (from Rhinebeck 2019). No label or other details available
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) for body. US 6 (4.0 mm) for ribbing.
Size 3, 45” bust because it calls for 2-4 inches of positive ease.
Switch to Lykke Needles for body. Thought I was using 32”. Was maybe 24.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Vlogmas 2022! 3rd year doing this project on my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. You can find the playlist here.
Christmas Day video still to come.
In My Travels
I went to Las Vegas with my parents, my brother Jeff and our friends Trish and Thayer from December 13-19th.
We visited the Hoover Dam, went ziplining down Fremont Street, had a couple really swanky dinners out including one at the Paris hotel on the Vegas strip overlooking the Bellagio fountains, did a bit of gambling on the slot machines, attended a Gatsby themed wedding and my brother and I ended the trip with a heck of a Patriots/Raiders game at the new Allegiant Stadium.
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Thanks to everyone who participated in our:
December Hat Interception hosted by Cori Eichelberger (irocknits) & Monique Leonard (Windswept Knits). Check out irocknits patterns on Ravelry & Windswept Monique’s patterns on Ravelry. Find all of the Challenge details in this Google Doc-
Gratitude WIP Bonus: finish up WIPs started 9/22/22 or earlier (with a finish date of 11/24-12/31/22) and you can earn some bonus points. Check out all of the details & rules in this Doc- Gratitude WIP Bonus
Night Bright Challenge: ends 12/31 get your entries into the Ravelry Thread
Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize for November
THANK YOU to Wendy, our Umpire, and Alicia, Heather and Emily, our fabulous commissioners!
Life in Focus
I'm starting my year in review process. In 2020 I recorded a video about that which you can find on my YouTube Channel. Check out that video here
Tune in to hear the answers to these questions asked by listeners:
How is your Mom doing? I'm praying for her.
I want to hear about your advent knits
Knitting projects
What was the make you most enjoyed making? What memory makes you happiest?
Your plans for 2023, how you're holding up with all that's going on in your world.
New Years Cast On Plans
On a Happy Note
Going to see Six with my bestie, Kris.
My friend Liz came over on the Thursday before Christmas to help me wrap. It was a good thing we finished because that night the power went out.
Friday morning I went to the ocean to see the waves crashing in after the bombcylone blew through.
Christmas Eve at my cousin Susan's- visit with Santa, cutting Mom's hair and a funny exchange where Santa thought I was the mother of one of my cousin's kids.
Sleeping over Mom's on Christmas night, watching movies and playing Tock with Mom, Riley and Millie.
Christmas morning snuggles with my youngest nephew, Zachary. Silly Christmas games Gail set up at my parents- Cling Wrap Game and the bows game (new to us this year). Stay tuned for the video to come soon!
2 unexpected packages- one from Woolen Women Fibers and one from Suzanne, SewRunKnit, who sent three beautiful chemo caps for Mom/donation.
Quote of the Week
There are years that ask questions and years that answer.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Dec 2020
Episode 199: Cheers to a New Year & A New Pattern!
00:54:27
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 199 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Show notes with photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/199
Crochet Lion Amigurumi by Melanie Willis. Available on Ravelry and Etsy for about $4.75 US.
Yoga socks
More spinning + getting back to design projects.
Crafty Adventures
Oisin and Emelyn put 3 coats of primer on the blue wall in my studio & I did 2 coats of white paint. Then I got the crazy notion to rearrange my whole studio which required taking nearly everything out of it! Dan happily obliged! Slowly bringing things back around. Yarn mostly back in place. Check out Vlogmas Days 28 & 29 Video for more.
Dan and I painted the bathroom.
Vlogmas videos have been my other crafty adventure. finding new things to record each day. I am working on my editing skills. I vlogged through the whole month of December! Check it out here.
Knitting in Passing
I shared an update about video chatting with my niece Riley to help her with her sweater project.
Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash.
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 223 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes and photos check out my website. www.downcellarstudio.com/223
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Mermaid Tail Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
Ravelry Page shows Among Us Characters alive and dead (dead is when they have a bone exposed) and with a crown. But the “without a bone” and “crown” instructions are not actually included in the PDF. See below for option that has the bone.
Among Us- Yellow with Bone
Pattern- Among Us Amigurumi Dead Version by Tiffany Horton- available free on her website
Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic Yarn from Stash- in Yellow
I purchased, for the first time, the complete set of Knit Picks Felici. 10 colorways. 1 50g ball each (I subsequently ordered another set). Considering purchasing from Knit Picks? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link
Designs- when I have a bit more mental bandwidth…
We found my grandmothers rugmaking supplies at Mom’s house. Need to do some googling!
Spinning.
From the Armchair
2021 Knitting in Review
90 finished knit/crochet projects
2 cardigans
5 tops
19 toys
5 shawls
24 pairs of socks
4 headbands
1 pair of mitts
1 knitted tree decoration
1 Christmas stocking
12 hats
7 blankets
2 jar cozies
7 garlands
Spinning- 4 projects, 11 skeins, 1,686 yards of Yarn (8 spinning projects in 2020 but they were smaller)
In July, I gifted my niece Gabriella a teddy bear crochet with Bernat Velvet yarn. She bumped her lip on the way over for a Christmas visit and grabbed her bear for comfort so they brought it with them. Lots of ends sticking out. I took a cable needle and shoved them back in and she looked pretty great after that!
Gabriella’s Velvet Bear
Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman- available on Yarnspirations website.
Making banana ice cream with Garret. We use this recipe.
Making Pizzelles- tasted delicious but looked kind of crumby but confectionary sugar hides many sins.
Knitting in Passing
During a recent sleepover, Millie wanted help with a knitting project and per usual she claimed she didn’t remember how to knit, but when she sat down and started, she picked right up where she left off. We have learned though that she does not enjoy bamboo needles so I need to work on getting her a short circular, metal needle replacement for the cowl she’s working on.
Riley’s current project is a cowl from Lion Brand in a fun color changing yarn. It turned out a bit too big and so instead, she wants to make it into a top for Millie. She’s learned to make i-cord to use for straps and we’ll sew those on when she’s done.
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Monthly Scavenger Hunt (December clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.
Check out Natalie’s patterns for ideas- Ravelry Link.
Life in Focus
Starting my annual Year in Review process. I shared about this last year on my YouTube Channel. Check out that video here
Tune in to hear how I did with my 21 for 2021 list. Hear more about these lists on the Happier Podcast w/ Gretchen Rubin
I also reviewed my Word of the Year and primary goals for 2021.
Marilynknits- “Could you talk about you learned to crochet? I think you probably already shared but I forget. Maybe you could also share a source for your favorite crochet tutorials. I am learning how to crochet!”
knit_read_sleep: “How the cling wrap game works. That looked so fun”- tune in to hear my description & check out our video of the Cling Wrap Game Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
francesgiff-knitting plans for 2022
Handspun garment
A new hat for me.
Spinning
I want to make more garlands for my house. Christmas themed one would be fun.
Genna-with-a-gee: “What are you best methods for having a successful year? Keeping low stress?”
Build habits that get you headed where you want to go. Figure out not just what you’re aiming for but concrete steps of when, where, how you’ll do things to move in that direction.
Be grateful. Look for the good things happening around you and you’ll find those.
Remember that life isn’t all good. It’s a mix. We’re supposed to be sad, angry, overwhelmed. Personally I don’t find it useful to try to find a way out of that. Experience it. Lean in, and then…when it feels like it could pass, move on. Try to move back towards more positive emotions.
On a Happy Note
Thank you for all of your kind notes, comments, cards etc after we announced last episode that Mom is battling lung cancer. We truly appreciate it. After a grueling experience with the special pharmacy, Mom has finally started her gene therapy treatment.
Visiting with Maria who was visiting from Barcelona. Check out the Day 17 Vlogmas Video to see the treats my friend Marta and her sons sent over for Dan and me.
Thrifting with Mom & the kids followed by a 4 kid sleepover.Check out the Day 18 & 19 Vlogmas Video for more. Patrons, check out your Patreon feed for an even longer video with lots more highlights and funny moments from the kids.
In addition to fun pancakes- we also scored a sea themed waffle maker at Savers so we made Dolphin, Seahorse and Crab waffles!
Babysitting my niece Gabriella.
Singing Christmas Carols by the fire even if it was freezing outside!
A quieter Christmas Eve than we planned that turned into a lovely night.
Christmas Day with our families. So much fun and laughter. Check out Vlogmas videos for more.
Continued adventures with Helen- the mannequin head- we discussed on the last episode. Millie and Dan got into hijinks on Christmas!
Quote of the Week
“Satisfaction is always available. It is just not always looked for. If, when you enter any experience, you enter with curiosity, respect and interest you will emerge enriched and with awareness you have been enriched. Awareness of enrichment is what satisfaction is.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Pattern: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter $7 US Knit Pattern
Yarn: 2 skeins of Two Reds & A Blonde DK from Dachinger Wool in mustard (Farrah Fawcett) and a blue (Veronica Lake). 2 skeins of Brown Sheep Yarn- Prairie Spun DK. In Rain Cloud (light gray) and Owl Gray (Charcoal)
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
Size 3: finished bust- 40 inches Designed to fit with 1-4.5 inches of positive ease.
Modified the last section of the colorwork yoke. Love how that came out. Decided to knit the number of body repeats called for in the pattern. Ribbing longer than called for.
The 2×2 ribbing on the front of the sock was hampering my progress. When I posted about it on Instagram, user Sheldon_Brungard suggested “Try using a progress keeper and set a small daily goal to complete such as 10 rounds. Once the daily goal is met you can switch to something else that excites you more.”
Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
3 rounds per square.
Crafty Adventures
Started a scrapbook of COVID-19 using Shutterfly. I love documenting life and this is definitely the most bizarre thing I’ve ever lived through. I am already forgetting some tiny details that were striking at the time. I’m including things like “new buzz words, what sold out at the stores, funny memes, what I’m grateful for, home improvement projects.
I made banana ice cream using this recipe for Mom since the local place is closed. Hard to find flavor. Recipe from wellplated.com
I Reorganized all leftovers and mini skeins after ordering bag of randoms from Knitty in Color. I packaged up yarn to swap with my friend Melissa.
Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before
We talked all about our new Point/Counterpoint Vol 5 Collection Available on Ravelry! Get our 4 accessory collection normally $18 for only $5 through 5/31/20 with code COLLAB. Click here for a link to the collection.
May 1 at 8p Eastern Instagram live. Check out Kino Knits Podcast for more of our chat.
Life in Focus
2020 Goals
3 times a week (average) exercise of 20 min or more (focus on strength training)= 156 workouts
7 published patterns on Ravelry
10% more sales of designs compared to 2019
I am becoming a morning workout person which surprised me. April workout totals: Total: 18 out of 30 days – 58% of days worked out. 11 of 18 were strength workouts. Having a blast exploring new trails within a new conservation land property that’s open to the public near my house. It’s so so peaceful and beautiful there.
Design progress- I have a mitt pattern almost ready for test knitting. Stay Out of the Forest which was already published and 2 designs in Point/Counterpoint. Sales are going really well!
I painted guest room- well I applied the first coat of primer but its a start. I’m using Sherwin Williams- Knitting Needles & Pewter Cast.
One day heading out for a walk and saw a cardboard sign on telephone pole- Pop-up Art show ahead. On our Neighbor’s fence (on a corner) a local artists hung painted canvases. Brightened my day.
Misfits Market Box. Interesting in trying it? Use this code to get 25% off: COOKWME-NV9CXZ
Sharing- I brought dinner to my friend Megg who is a hard working teacher and Mama. We chatted for a few from the lawn while they were up on their deck and I got to see my 2 year old niece Hattie.
We had fun with my niece Aila’s 11th birthday parade and game night that followed.
Quote of the Week
Sharon Salzberg on faith and keeping an open mind:
“It’s not the existence of beliefs that is the problem, but what happens to us when we hold them rigidly, without examining them, when we presume the absolutely centrality of our views and become disdainful of others.”
Pattern was a part of my May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box package. Watch my unboxing video here. If you’re thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link.
It won’t cost you any extra. I will make a small commission.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Modern Classic Baby Blanket
Pattern: Modern Classic Baby Blanket by Kristin Holloway ($8 crochet pattern available on Ravelry: free version w/ ads available on this website)
Hook: I (5.5)
Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins)
Size: Crib Blanket: 36 x 50”
The blanket is worked in 2 halves that you seam together at the center to make it symmetrical. The pattern features some crochet cables.
Woolen Camelot socks
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers Sock (80/20 SW Merino/Nylon) in the Woolen Camelot colorway from the May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box.
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Check out my Unboxing Video for this May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box. If you’re thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link.
It won’t cost you any extra. I will make a small commission.
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
Progress: finished first sock. Beyond the heel on the second sock.
Brainstorming
Keeping a “creative projects” list in Evernote is really helping me. With everything going on, I don’t always have the mental energy to decide on something but making feels good and I’m happier when I do it. Thinking ahead to upcoming birthdays and listing patterns out is working better for me this year than ever before.
April Plans
Crochet beer hat for Chris – Red heart gold + Lion Brand Homespun Yarn- Hepplewhite (May 31st birthday)- yarn purchased
Mini Mock Neck Tank for Liz. Pattern by Jessie Maed Designs. $9 knitting pattern on Ravelry
We bought yarn for this at Rhinebeck and in an over-tired state, lost ourselves in a fit of giggles over the description of this pattern.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
On Sunday March 24, my friend Megg and I spent the day at Raffa Life in Cranston, Rhode Island. We did the 4 hour Urban Sweat in the morning. We took a Worm Moon Sound Bath Yoga Workshop in the afternoon. I left feeling loose, refreshed, and calm. Curious about what a Sound Bath is? Click here for an article that may be helpful.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
I shared an update on my 24 for 2024 list
5) Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund
15) Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe (March: nearly 30 pieces)
16) Go skiing- 2/24 with Rowans
20) Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed. Ordered in march.
21) Buy a new blow dryer. March 21st ordered Dyson
Ask Me Anything
Rachel asked: How are you coping with your mom’s health concerns and making time for self care?
Going to bed early.
Not scrolling on social media- it can be fun, yes, but too much makes me feel anxious.
Talking with friends and with Dan.
I started seeing a therapist.
Making time- not having kids definitely helps with this, but as you all know, I can definitely over-schedule myself. I have been prioritizing family events and not much else. I don’t enjoying saying no or seeing so much white space on the calendar- but I know I’ll need it and I often do.
On a Happy Note
Friday night game night at my parents with my brother, Dan and the kids. We played a few spirited rounds of Skip-Bo and watched the Taylor Swift Eras tour movie on tv.
Mom, Riley, Millie and I had a sleepover then spent Saturday doing some thrift and clothing shopping, went out for lunch and brought home Crumbl cookies to taste test (with my Dad/Pepere). My phone fell into the cookie with the MOST sticky frosting. It was hilarious!
We all celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at my cousin Susan’s annual party. I had a blast catching up with cousins and especially playing with some of the little kiddos.
Seeing the Girl from North Country (Broadway in Boston series). While Megg and I did not enjoy the show, its always fun to experience live theater and the music was beautiful.
Monthly massage!
Lunch with Mom, Dad, Kris and Aila.
Garret’s playoff hockey game! He got a hat trick, they won and got to the next round of playoffs (they won the second game too).
Dinner with work friends.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Quote of the Week
“Spring is when you feel like whistling, even with a shoe full of slush.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Oct 2020
Episode 194: Gnomies & Cozies
00:56:23
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 194 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
Pattern: Gno Fun Like Gnome Fun by Sarah Shira, Imagined Landscapes (Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor). Ravelry Project Page Link.
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm).
Hook: C (2.75 mm)
Yarn: leftover worsted & DK weight from stash.
Crocheted the body (dusty pink yarn), and stuffed. Knit hat top down as written using a mustard color from Gale’s Art (DK). Stuffed and sewed to body. Knit beard and arms per pattern and sewed on.
I saw Arthella from Best Day Ever Crafting Podcast working on hers. She saw it on the Knit State of Mind Podcast (Episode 16) when Wanda recently finished hers.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick in the Blackstone Colorway
Brainstorming
Tara, Arianrod on Ravelry, PMed me about the Continuous Mitered Square Blanket by Kara Gunza. DK weight crochet blanket. Looks like knit mitered squares.
Rubber Stamping & Embossing. Made some gift tags and Christmas cards. They all need some finishing touches and parts are for a surprise gift so I’ll share later in the season but it felt great getting back into a hobby that I started 25 years ago!
Check out my first ever Day in the Life Vlog on my Down Cellar Studio Podcast YouTube Channel
Knitting in Passing
I wore my Ninilchik Swoncho to Joann’s. The cashier at Joann asked if I minded sharing where I bought my sweater because she loved it and wanted to buy one. I told her I knit it. She’s just learning to crochet. I told her, she could definitely do this. Just keep learning.
Dan got a nice text from his friend for whom I crocheted a baby blanket when their first granddaughter was due this summer. He thanked us again for her blanket saying it’s her favorite. So sweet.
Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.Check out the Ravelry Thread.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
October Interception For this Interception you’re going to blend two (or more) colorways together in one project. You can marl them, use stripes, use one as an accent against a main color. You decide how to pair them up. A 2 color shawl, socks with contrast cuffs/heels/toes, a striped hat. As long as it’s at least 100 yards, it counts for this challenge.
To be eligible to win
Complete a project of at least 100 yards that uses the 2 colors. If you want to make multiple small projects, the total must be over 100 yards.
Project must have been cast on on/after 10/1/20 and completed by 10/31/20
Post your FO with a description and/or photo that shows how you’re meeting the challenge.
1 entry for your FO (or group of small FOs). Post your FO in the October Interception Thread in the Ravelry Group.
Players not on Ravelry can post on Instagram with #DCSPigskinComeTogether. You may only enter in one place- Ravelry OR Instagram.
1 additional entry in each place if you use one or more colorways from Holly Press Fibers.
Total of 2 entries Max per player (1 for your FO + 1 for using Holly Press Fibers Yarn)
Prize: $30 Holly Press Fibers Gift Certificate (note- no additional points will be offered for completing this Interception. You can still enter for points for this project as usual).
Pop-Up Events
30 Day Tailgate Talk Challenge Over on Friday! Did you like it? Should we do it another? For points? Or not for points?
Kick Off Challenge- 50 pts for each FO you cast on in first 2 weeks of Pigskin Party. Limited time to enter for these points. Check out Details on Ravelry or on my website.
Ravelry User VTKimmyKim is hosting a Netflix Party Movie Night on November 7th at 8:00pm EST. Movie TBD. Check out this and other pop-up events in this thread in the Ravelry Group— or host your announce and share it here.
Virtual Kick off event Thursday evening with Josh Bennett and London Kaye. Lots of fun. Keynote on Saturday with Jared Flood.
Friday, October 9, 2020 Beginning Brioche- Faina Goberstein.
Saturday, October 10, 2020 Brioche and Beyond- Olga Jazzy.
Sunday, October 11, 2020 Inclusive Size Shawls – Kim McBrian Evans.
Operation Sock Drawer Book Launch Zoom Party hosted by the Stockinette Zombies. Jasmin & Gigi of the Knitmore Girls came on and talked about how the book came together and selecting the patterns, and then several of the designers shared more about themselves another designs. Watch the replay on YouTube.
Festive sock along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1 #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Starts 9/22. I bought yarn from Area 51 Fibres. Can’t wait!
Call for Testers-want to knit a sideways fingering weight shawl that calls for 20 calls/ 200g total? Message me!
Life in Focus
I’ve had a tough couple weeks with pain. Lessons learned:
Listen to your body. Adjusting your plans/goals to be kind to the only body you get is absolutely OK.
Don’t skip stretching. It’s important!
Adjusting my routine can and often is a good thing. Waking up early to walk in the summer because it was light already and would be too hot later was a good idea. Now its dark at 5:45a… Its time to adjust. It shouldn’t take THIS hitting me so hard to get me there, but it sorta did. I’m just getting back to things now but I’m going to start thinking about what my routine looks like. I’ll be active and I do like having a routine. Habits work well for me… but that can look different in different seasons.
On a Happy Note
A 2 hour deep tissue massage with my favorite massage therapist.
Ordered a Theragun Pro with permission of my Rheumatologist using Flex Spending money. Not sure what a Theragun is- check out this article from CNet.
Outdoor get together for Dad’s birthday at my brother’s & watching Riley and Millie in their neighborhood production of Our Little Mermaid.
I checked my ballot status- it has been mailed to me! I look forward to submitting it! Go out and Vote!
Quote of the Week
“Our political leaders will know our priorities only if we tell them, again and again, and if those priorities begin to show up in the polls.” -Peggy Noonan
“Not Voting is not a protest. It is a surrender.” -Keith Ellison
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 211 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Beth, Luanne, Kathy, Candy & Theresa
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Recalibrate Top
Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit)
Needles: US 8
Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
Modifications: I changed the striping sequence for the left & right body. For my size I was supposed to do 2 garter ridges per color striping all the way across the body. Instead I did:
7 repeats of the 2-garter ridge stripes (7 each of cream + gray)
7 repeats of 1 garter ridge stripes (7 each of cream + gray).
Split hem:
Front: Picked up 4 sts from each side panel plus the front stitches. Knit 18 rows (9 garter ridges).
Back: Picked up 5 stitches from each side panel plus the back stitches. Knit 22 rows (11 garter ridges).
For the edging on split hem section, I started and ended each RS row with (k1, s1pw wyif, k1). I started and ended each WS row with (s1pw wyif, k1, s1pw wyif).
Pattern is available for pre-sale now $8.00. Click here for Ravelry Link. Click here for PayHip Link.
This pattern is available for presale. Save 20% with code SUMMER.
Dragonboat Christmas Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Dragonboat (self striping), Minis from Holly Press Fibers for Cuff. Heel & Toe in Twisted Owl Fiber Studios in the Poison Ivy colorway
We talked about these on our Crafty Chat on my YouTube Channel.
Brainstorming
Another crochet blanket.
Another Recalibrate Top.
I’d like to cast on something with the Tequila Sunrise Cheviot that I spun last summer from Blueberry Chick Yarn (click here for my Ravelry Project Page). 473 yards. crochet shawl maybe? Let me know if you have any suggestions.
In this episode- I shared the details of the 4th of July Challenge. Details on my website & on Ravelry. I announced a bunch of Participation Winners. If you won- please reach out to me via Ravelry or email.
Events
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details. They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
2020 Summer Olympics will begin on Friday, July 23, 2021
Contest, News & Notes
I learned about the Woolly Wishes organization on Episode 39 of the WeCrochet Podcast They provide Syrian families with warm clothing items, toys, and blankets among other things. Check out the link above for more details about where in California to mail handmade items that they will deliver to the Syrian refugee camps.
On a Happy Note
Oisin and Will’s birthday sleepover.
Seeing fireflies in the driveway!
Will’s soccer game and Riley’s softball game.
Hattie, Aila and Emelyn’s dance recital.
Great pool day for Father’s Day.
Hair color (for me) and cuts for Mom & me.
Oisin’s birthday at the beach!
Sleepover with all 5 girls. blanket forts. manicures, making pancakes and muffins, painting, video games. barbies and most of them were only with us for about 15 hours!
Quote of the Week
In order to complete our amazing life journey successfully, it is vital that we turn each and every dark tear into a pearl of wisdom, and find the blessing in every curse. – Anthon St. Maarten
About: I originally spun this last summer and plied 1 ply of Into the Whirled with 2 plies of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes fiber (Ravelry Project Page here). I had two bobbins of leftovers and I needed the bobbins so I plied those up. The result was much more yarn than I expected.
Total= 116 Meters
2 ply: which means things went through the oriface of the wheel 3 times= Stash Dash Meters- 116.5 x3= 349.5
Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks
Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there’s a new one coming in the Fall.
Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link.
The patterns for this kit will be the Northeasterly Blanket by Melissa Alexander-Loomis (knit version) and the Northeasterly blanket by Katy Stevens (crochet version).
Progress: I finished 9 my May squares but haven’t seamed them yet.
Vera’s Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
Progress: Stocking and cuff are finished and ironed. I crocheted the three circles for the snowman, made the scarf and earmuffs and ironed those too. I still need to crochet a carrot nose, sew on the snowman and add the name to the cuff. Nearly done!
Trish’s New Orleans Socks
Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34.
Progress: Friday night we hung out with friends and I finished the leg of the second sock, and turned the heel on a rainy Saturday.
Baby James’ Cozy Clusters Blanket
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Slush Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01110 [Navy] for the border)
About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
Started in May 2023
Progress: nearly to the toe on the second sock.
Brainstorming
Socks for Dan
Christmas stocking for my cousin Colleen’s son, Owen
At least another pair of socks.
I really want to crochet a summer top but I can’t find anything that’s really exciting me… Ideas welcome!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I was crocheting on Riley’s top on the T. Man told me about how he crocheted as a kid in Cape Verde and Holland. He had nothing to do. No tv. Needed something to entertain himself so he taught himself. Sister knew but couldn’t teach him. It wasn’t a normal thing for boys in holland. Or girls as far as he knew and they didn’t teach it in school but he had fond memories of it. Great chat learning about his travels and his work as a union carpenter now.
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’24 will kick off in the fall (specific date TBD). I will be sending out an email to sponsors in the next 2-3 weeks asking folks to sign up. Interested or know someone who is? Sign up for my email newsletter and click the box saying you’re potentially interested in sponsoring events and you’ll get first dibs on spots.
Tour de Fleece- check out this Ravelry Group for official details. Saturday, June 29, 2024 through Sunday, July 21, 2024. Rest Days: Monday, July 8 and Monday, July 15. There are challenge days, Teams and prizes.
Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22
The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024.
Here’s a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
24 for 2024 list
#1-Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy (1 and the guy was GREAT)
#4- Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 31 as of June 24
#7-Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site. Going to Portland- maybe will look there.
Health Update– BostonJensMom begins whole brain radiation on July 1. Every weekday (except July 4) through July 22. Keep those prayers and good vibes coming. We recorded a very long health update video that will go up in 2 parts on the YouTube Channel. It takes a bit of time to edit because I like to add in photos/videos of the fun life stuff we chat about to make it more fun. Keep an eye out for that if you want the full story of my parents car accident and April and everything that’s happened since our last recording in February.
Mom, Megg, Kris and I went to see Come From Away in Boston
I helped Dan build a shed for his brother and then relaxed in the pool at my parents once we were done (and good and sweaty).
I pressure washed the house and the deck- it’s currently covered in pollen but at least I got the worst of it off. It’s such a satisfying chore!
Mom and I went to Aila’s voice recital and out for drinks after.
I brought my grandmother to my cousin Jenny’s daughter Vera’s Baptism Party. Beautiful day!
Celebrated my birthday at a local Irish Pub for live Irish music. Dan treated us all for dinner. My parents, Megg, Tom (who is from Ireland) and their friend David (visiting from Ireland), Megg’s Mom Terri, Trish and Liz. Very fun, silly night as usual. Megg and I weren’t doing gifts this year because of our Opera House season tickets but I made her socks in March and she brought me a beautiful plant! We all went back to Megg and Tom’s after which was fun because I got to see Eme, Oisin and Hattie too. The boys made lobster for David who hadn’t tried New England Lobster before.
After the most stressful and hellish week at work I’ve had in 22 years, I convinced the directors in charge of my Nurse Call Integration project that it was too unstable and had to be shut down so while it was awful, it was done in little more than 3 days. Thankfully, none of the blame was on me (didn’t make it feel that much better). Vendor was woefully unprepared and mismanaged things. On that Friday, my boss told me to leave early. I met up with Dan for lunch at The Galley in Scituate. Sitting in the window/door until a huge storm blew in and they had to close it up.
June 11th- my cousin Colleen had her baby boy- Owen (not on my birthday but soo close)
June 12th- my nephew Garret graduated from 8th Grade and my Mom (and Dad) were there for it!
June 14th- Conor and Carly welcomed their baby boy Miles.
I did the stage decorations and played house manager in the last ever Terri’s School of Dance recital. We had a party at Kris’ house after.
Father’s Day Pool Party- Dan taught Garret and his friend Terry how to properly shuck a lobster. We played games and swam a little in the pool.
My cousin Gayle flew in from FL and joined us for the recital and Father’s Day fun. I had Monday off and headed over to Mom and Dad’s. Jenny and Vera were there, and Millie never left. We swam, played Tock, and went to Heidi’s for an ice cream.
On Juneteenth- I hit the gym then took Millie and Riley to get their nails done, then took Gayle to Athleta, swam a bit. Dan, Jeff and Melissa came over and we all had dinner together by the pool.
Quote of the Week
As soon as I have a deadline, I work much better. Time unbounded is hard to handle.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Aug 2022
Episode 237: Paddling, Packing & Prizes
00:44:47
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 237 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, please check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/237
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Shawl Design
I finished up the sample for a new shawl design using a 150g skein of fingering weight from agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk. I lost at yarn chicken andended up finding another similar colorway in leftovers bin. I think it was Queen City Pigskin Colorway- the Huddle is Real.
The finished shawl weighs 160 grams
676.8 meters for Stash Dash
Tiles for Miles Blanket
Pattern: Tiles for Miles Crochet Baby Blanket by Yarnspirations. Free crochet pattern available on the Yarnspirations website
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted. Mint for MC. Many colors of greens, blues and grays for Contrast Colors.
Planned for 20 columns total. 11 or 13 hexis depending on the column.
SCing them together with 2 strands like I am for the hexagons themselves. A great way to use up very small scraps because I only ever seam 3 sides together.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Camping at On the Saco Campground in Fryeburg ME
2 days paddling. 9 miles each day
Thurs night went to Saco River Brewing then to the restaurant next door.
2,268 Sponsor Products used in the creation of the 1022 FOs
33 Participation Prizes
30 Final Prizes
Thank you to Wendy and Jen!!!!! Tune in to hear if you’re one of our end of the summer winners! I will email all winners within a week of this recording.
Second hand shopping. I bought a beautiful cedar entertainment center.
Dan, Laura, Aila and I all had sleepovers at Mom & Dad’s. Pool time, ice cream and penny drop.
The Rowans are home from Ireland!
Tuesday August 9 we celebrated Mom & Hattie’s half birthdays at the beach.
Camping!
Sunday- pooltime and dinner with Mom, Dad and my brother, Jeff.
Quote of the Week
For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock.–JAMES BALDWIN
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Sep 2020
Episode 192: Pumpkins & Party Time!
01:04:44
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 192 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes & photos on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/192
Pattern: Gno Fun Like Gnome Fun by Sarah Schira $7 Canadian knitting pattern
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm)
Yarn: Body: Gale’s Art Super Star DK (mustard), Hat: Madeline Tosh Tosh Vintage (in a one of a kind blue/green). Beard/skin: Cascade Eco Alpaca, Natural
Plan is to make a garland for my niece Emelyn who just moved away for college; and a set for myself. One might be more Halloween themed and one more fall themed.
Quarter 3 Sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Apple Fiber Studio, Cookie and BeesDon’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash
Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry or on my website. Important Links:
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Updates in this episode:
This year, everyone is a team to provide you a small group to chat with and get to know. The teams roll up into 3 Conferences. Wendy heads up the Alpaca Football Conference (AFC), Lisa heads up the Sheep Football Conference (SFC) and I’m heading up the Llama Football Conference (LFC).
Play around with the Points Tally form to practice. That will be wiped on Friday night 9/18.
Participants can enter any pre-game points they’re eligible for starting on Saturday 9/19 (but remember you cannot cast on until 9/25).
Stay tuned for a 30 Day Challenge that will help us get to know each other.
Join us for our Virtual Kick Off on 9/25 & 26. Details can be found in the Ravelry Groupand on my website.
I will be sending out an email newsletter later this week with key Pigskin reminders and links. I am also creating a PDF printable that lets you plan out your projects if you’re the paper planner type. Not on my email list yet? Sign up now and you’ll automatically have it sent to you 24 hours after you sign up.
It is never too late to join in the Pigskin Party. Fill out the Sign up Form anytime. We’d love to have you.
Events
Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, ran from May 22- August 22, 2020. Thank you to everyone who posted/commented that you enjoyed challenge between Jasmin and me. Jasmin shared the results on the Knitmore Girls Podcast Episode 593.
Tune in to hear my breakdown by craft and project type.
In theory, the loser our of little private competition donates money to charity, but it’s become something we both have committed to regardless of the outcome. This year, with employer matching we were able to give $200 each to Black Lives Matter, the NAACP & ActBlue. If you’ve gotten something out of this challenge, we encourage you to donate to one of these causes or something that speaks to your value.
Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1 #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for #gilmorealong2020 on Instagram. Begins on 9/22. I bought yarn from Area 51 Fibres. Can’t wait!
Contest, News & Notes
The Knitmore Girls’ Operation Sock Drawer book will be published October 20th. Call Hicklebees or check out this link to order a signed copy! I already ordered mine.
Ask Me Anything
Happyjustknitting asked: With Stash Dash over, do you still have WIPs or are you working on casting new things/spinning? Tune in to hear my answer.
Timenow13 on Instagram Megan asks “Hi, I have two questions. I have recently found your podcast and love it, I’ve listened to it backwards to episode 91 on Apple podcast and I would love to listen to the rest but I’m not sure if they are available anywhere? My second question is if you have any tips for being in a transitional knitting place? I have only ever done flat things mostly washcloths and baby blankets, I finally finished my first piece of lace. I want to start doing hats or mittens or maybe ever a sweater but it all seems like a big jump. Any tips?”
You can listen to all of my back episodes directly from my podcast host Libsyn. Click on the POD icon next to the episode name to play an episode. This should work well on mobile or desktop.
Taking knitting to the next step- my best advice is “Go where your interest lies.” After scarves I went to hats. I started top down with the Hill Country Hat (Ravelry Link) by Clara Parkes, which isn’t typical but I thought that would be easy to measure. The great thing w/ hats is they don’t take long and it will fit SOMEONE. Other easy patterns I tried: Neighborly- Ravelry Link (kid’s vest) by Jennifer Casa (Free) & 5-hour baby sweater (cardigan)- Ravelry Link by Courtney Filner (free)
I also recommend Tin Can Knits Simple Collection- Ravelry Link.
Big upgrade at work has gone well and more importantly- its mostly behind us!
Dan bought me a Li’l Sebastian Mug (which he purchased online as we binged Season 7 of Parks and Recreation)
Great to see my cousin Gayle who came down for a visit!
Fridge and freezer broke (not so happy) but with a recommendation on a local repair shop, it was fixed the same day we called!
Cool enough weather to wear handknits- I wore to my Soldotna for visit to Staci’s Stitches.
Quote of the Week
Humor is the antidote to overthinking. It’s a way of saying that life is paradoxical. Humor contains contradictions; it does not resolve them but revels in them. It says that the right way to exist among the contradictions, paradoxes, and absurdities of life is to cope with them through laughter. — Bob Mankoff
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
My cousin Gayle gave me an antique darning egg that was her great grandmother’s.
It appears to be a vintage white milk glass hand blown darning egg- similar to this one listed on eBay
Mom got us matching pink socks with sheep on them for upcoming Wool Festivals!
I enjoyed the quiet time & guided meditation. I’m not sure I believe in the benefits of the salt and am especially skeptical that the website sites Dr. Oz as their source.
Check out the Maintenance Phase Podcast to hear some behind the scenes details you may not know about Dr. Oz
Morgen’s First Communion and A’s birthday dinner.
I saw a local production of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with my cousins, my grandmother & my great aunt Florence as part of her 94th birthday celebration. She’s always wanted red leather pants. Her daughter Joanie bought them for her and she rocked them!
Savers trip with Mom! Always fun (and funny)
My cousin Bella’s performance as Fiona in Shrek the Musical
Our friend Liz’s surprise 30th Birthday- Star Wars Themed Party. The decorations were on point!
We have a new nephew- Zachary!
Mother’s Day at Mom’s.
My mom, Diane Lassonde, was on Episode 190 of the eBay for Business Podcast. Check it out!
Quote of the Week
Life will hit you hard in the face, wait for you to get back up just so it can kick you in the stomach. But getting the wind knocked out of you is the only way to remind your lungs how much they like the taste of air.– Sarah Kay
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Jan 2021
Episode 201: Abington Mitts
00:58:07
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 201 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/201
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Gnome for Kris
Hook: C (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in several shades of pinks and gray
I finished the lion (left photo) and wasn’t completely happy so I moved the right eye and added more mane yarn to frame the face a little more closely (right photo).
Ravelry user deafelis posted to say “ Jen, it sounds like you need a latch hook (Michaels link) for the lion mane! You basically described latch hook rug making, and that special hook makes things so much easier.” Thanks for the tip!
Used 74g of yarn total, but used Patons for contrast heels. Excited to have leftovers.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Spent most of the past 2 weeks knitting up the sample for a new shawl design and a secret project for Mom’s birthday which I am not sharing details on just yet…
Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway (yarn provided to me free of charge for my review)
Size 3 (42 inch bust)
Thanks to Ravelry user mjgnatt– MJ- who said “I believe the yarn for your Ursa pull over is Mauch Chunky. I live in Northeastern PA and there is a town called Jim Thorpe in Carbon County. The town used to be called Mauch Chunk which means Bear Place in the native Munsee-Lenape Native American language. The pronunciation of Mauch is “mock”. Just thought you might want to know how appropriate your yarn is for your Ursa pullover as Ursa Major is a constellation also known as the Great Bear.”
Super Bulky Chevron Blanket
Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in various colors
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Check out the January Interception: Stash Hat Scrimmage Hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Check out the Ravelry Thread or this page on my website.
Thank you to Mara Smith for hosting a Pigskin Party Stretching session on January 24th! So great to see your smiling faces. I felt so great afterwards- and spent the rest of that day chasing a 3 year old, so it was good to be limber! Check out Mara’s Instagram Account for her PrecisionATPerformance business or her website. She offers Zoom stretching classes that you may enjoy Flexibility: Wednesdays at 6:30pm Stretches for Stitchers: Fridays at 6:30pm. She is running a sale on February classes but you have to sign up by 1/31. So get over there now if you’re interested.
I’m excited to share the release of my Abington Mitt pattern.
The Abington Mitts were designed to match my Abington Hat. They use similar repeats of twisted stitches and cables as the focal point for the top of the hand.The mitts are worked from the wrist up and are customizable.
3 Sizes: Small (Medium, Large): Finished palm circumference: 6 (7, 8) in / 15.25 (17.75, 20.25) cm
Intended to fit with a little bit of negative ease. Select the size that is closest to your hand circumference as measured just below the knuckles and above the thumb gusset. If you are between sizes, I’d recommend going down to a smaller size.
Yarn: DK weight: Yarn used in samples: 66 (70, 80) grams. 162 (172, 196) yards / 148 (157, 179) meters* If you plan to make your mitts longer in the wrist and or/hand, you will need more yarn.
Needles: US 4 / 3.5 mm & US 6 / 4.0 mm, 32 in / 80 cm circulars for magic loop, or your preferred needles for knitting in the round.
This pattern has been tech edited & test knit.Instructions are both written and charted.
Find the Abington Mitts Pattern for $5 on Ravelry & coming soon to LoveCrafts.
Newsletter subscribers, check your email for the best possible deal. The pattern will have an intro code for everyone else making the pattern just $4.
Tune in to hear how I’m doing so far with my goals and my 21 for 2021 list.
Ask Me Anything
Knitgirlwagner asked. What’s the best way to teach yourself to spin?
Not sure if your goal is to 100% teach yourself, if that’s the case, I do have some tips, but if you’re interested/able to get the assistance of someone else, I recommend that. It made a huge difference for me.
Smooth Operator Socks by Susan B. Anderson: Ravelry Link
On a Happy Note
Splashing in the mud puddles on a recent hike with Hattie.
Hattie talking about coming home with me. Wanting to sleep over “when she’s little” after I insisted she can sleep over when she gets “a little bigger.”
Weekly check ins with Mom about our goals.
Crafty time with Eme and Hattie.
The joyous, safe Inauguration of our 46th President and first female, Asian American/African American VP. Missed watching it live, but used phone unboxing batteries at work. Had to keep myself from crying because had a feeling if I did, someone would inevitably walk in at that moment.
Amanda Gorman, 1st ever youth poet laureate, shared a poem. Read the transcript. Really recommend you watch it.
Bridgerton on Netflix with Dan.
Snow!
Quote of the Week
“You can do so much in ten minutes’ time. Ten minutes, once gone, are gone for good. Divide your life into 10-minute units and sacrifice as few of them as possible in meaningless activity.”
Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit)
Needles: US 8
Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
My Cozy Classic Raglan (Ravelry Project Page) is too big in the arm holes. Think that was the original issue not the length. May rip it all out and use yellow MCN for something else. It’s too scrumptious to sit in the closet
Thank you to Jessica & Karen of the Make Good Podcast. They sponsored the Designer Panel I spoke on with Indie Untangled last weekend. They talked about some of the designers on Episode 27. Link here.
Finished Books (spoiler alert- I recommend them all):
We sewed up holes in Dave’s seams and added more stuffing. Oisin won him at the arcade sleepover in 2014. Still one of his favorites. Check out this vlog video for some of that!
I did some visible mending on some of Mom’s socks.
This book was handy (I borrowed it from my local library for a bit) Mending with Love : creative repairs for your favorite things by Noriko Misumi Bookshop Affiliate Link . Amazon Affiliate Link.
In My Travels
We recently spent a weekend away in Orange MA at a cottage rented through AirBnB on Lake Mattawa.
“Some things are better off ignored than attacked. Attention is the oxygen of conflict. When you fight a problem, you breathe life into it. When you starve a problem of your attention, you suffocate it. In a surprising number of cases, the way to solve a problem is to ignore it.” -James Clear
First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic
Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co
Third Section- Kindful Yarn (lighter colorway) with Quince & Co
I folded it over, seamed up both sides then put border around all the way over. I used yarn to seam up the middle to separate pocket into 2 so it would be less floppy.
Final thoughts- could be a little deeper, but I can always add to it.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage
You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube.
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Progress Notes- I didn't like the sc border I originally added (confirmed by blocking) so I ripped it back. I am now working the border in dc like the granny squares. 1 DC in the spot where each square is seamed together, then (2dc, ch2, 2 dc) in each corner and that seems to be working well.
Space Daddy Socks
Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple.
I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1.
Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff.
Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
Progress- I've added another inch since last time we talked.
Crafty Adventures
My cousin Gayle came up for another visit and led another Resin art class with cousins on my Mom's side of the family. Last time I made a cutting board. This time I made a pumpkin lazy susan- perfect for fall hosting! My cousins made some really beautiful things. I'll share some photos in the show notes for you. Thanks, Gayle, for sharing your talents with us!
In My Travels
Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- video coming soon. Safe to say, I had lots of fun with Riley, Liz and Mom. Spoiler alert- stay tuned to the end of the video for some fun bloopers and outtakes. Thanks Riley & Liz for getting some awesome footage of the weekend. I don't think I held the camera once the entire time! It's really fun to share this with them.
Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
Quarter 1 Challenge: Sock it to ’em brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Paper Daisy Creations (Ravelry Link). Runs 10/1-10/31. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Thanks to our Correspondents for checking in with some fun updates.
Check out the Ravelry Group to find some of the new Pigskin chat threads- Pigskin Recipe Ideas,Pigskin ‘23 Book Club, Pigskin Participant Podcast, and Pigskin ‘23 Westknits MKAL
Congrats to PAKnitWit (Sarah) who already got a blitz (first of the season!). She finished a crochet corner to corner blanket- Ravelry link here.
As of Sunday evening 9/24 we have 512 Participants- 236 with Points on the Scoreboard (Average of those with points is 204 Points. Highest: 1532 Lowest: 2. 3 Blitz projects!
As of 9/29- Conference Standings LFC (22,460 pts) SFC (22,375 pts) AFC (18,632 pts)-
Top Team= 7 Garter Guards
Events
NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023
Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.
Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available
Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY
Anita asked about: Ideas for color schemes for yarn choices- how to use variegated yarns to help blend different color schemes.
Shelly asked: "Do you have any tips or tricks on how to calculate the yards used in a project?"
Tip: Check Ravelry Project Pages & check the "All Helpful Projects" filter. Here's the Ravelry link for helpful projects for this pattern. THis particular Ravelry project gives the cast on stitches and number of rows and says she 1 50g skein would have been enough "if I did a 40 round leg (ran out of the first skein when I had 10 rounds left on the foot of the second sock)."
On a Happy Note
Dinner with Gayle, Joanie, Mom and Dad. Gave Joanie gifts from Sedona and Gayle some new socks.
Old Dominion- took girls to arcade after then got a drink and something to eat with Jeff & Melissa
Brunch. Singing in the car with the girls. Garret’s hockey game
Apple picking! Bisque! Cider donuts!
Thanks to Patrons who talked about The Vow on HBO. Dan and I are fully hooked.
Pumpkin coffee: usually I have a few cups a year and I'm good, but this year its growing on me. They have a great one at the coffee shop at work, Marylous, and I even bought a container from Trader Joe's that I enjoyed some of this week.
Cooler temps- they hit us fast this year. We went from hot and muggy to mornings that are 55 and crisp and days in the 60's. I'm loving pulling on wool socks and a wool sweater to stave off the chill.
Quote of the Week
Since time is the one immaterial object which we cannot influence—neither speed up nor slow down, add to nor diminish—it is an imponderably valuable gift.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Sep 2023
Episode 262: Mojo
00:54:57
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 262 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
92 sts. 2x2 rib with the US 5 needles. Switched to US 7 needles after the brim. I was running out of yarn as I got close to the crown so I striped in 3 rounds of neon coral and neon blue with the Shock Star color in between.
About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple.
I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1.
Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff.
Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription
Progress: 9 squares for September complete. I'm planning to buy a neutral sock yarn to seam and border them with. Each month's 3x3 square will have a border around it and then be seamed with the other 11 for the year.
You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube.
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Strathcona Sweater
Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website)
Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway
Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body)
Wear it with Pride Hat by Cori Eichelberger ($10 pattern available on Ravelry. Proceeds go to the Trevor Project. There is a coupon code available if you want/need to pay less). It uses worsted weight self striping with a contrast color and corrugated ribbing to create a nice pattern.
Easy Striped Men's Beanie by Lena Mathisson ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry). Worsted weight, striped beanie.
Shave Ice Beanie (worsted weight garter stitch hat) by @hookmountainhandmade- $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
Gandy Dancer Mitts (star stitch textured mittens) by @chitchatknits $4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry (great for variegated or tonals)
Lucky Break (garter shawl using minis where you bind off/cast back on to create large eyelets) by @paperdaisycreations $7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
Playoff Prediction starts 9/6. Who will win the Super Bowl? Submit your guess by 9/20. Find all the details in this thread. Thanks Nicole for the idea!
Official Sponsors of the Quarter: There will be a special point-earning challenge issued for this "Quarter"- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan. We won't reveal all of the challenges ahead of time, but you will find out about them in the days leading up to that month. You can assume, correctly, that you will get more points for using products from that Official Sponsor.
October: Paper Daisy Creations
November: Bella Fio
December: Mandi's Makings
January: Lolodidit
Welcome aboard to our 2 Commentators- Mary (Maryklute) and Kristen (Kips206)! THis episode I shared Mary's first report.
Pigskin started with a bang! Over 1000 posts before the Sunday football games even started! One topic of the chatter has been that it has been so chatty, with lots of folks offering the advice to just jump in and not worry about what you missed!
People are all over the place in terms of projects. 38 people already had points on the board by midday Sunday! 16 of those people got points for drafting other players!
Erica -- Esalaza has already completed two projects that used over 600 yards each! She’s been making crochet scrap yarn baskets that are super cute! You can find her Ravelry Project Pages here & here (both are Ravelry links)
There’s lots of chatter in the team threads as people complete the Tailgate Talk challenge.
Some folks (like me” are working on finishing up pre-PSP WIPs There’s still plenty of time to play so no worries if you haven’t even cast on a PSP eligible project yet. To quote imaginedlandscapes, “This knitalong is definitely a marathon and not a sprint.”
I've crocheted triangles and seamed together, put stuffing in between and attached to a twig glued to a ring of wood as the base to make a tree- similar to this Pin. You could do the same thing with knitted fabric.
Crochet star ornaments (could also be used as garland). I used cream sparkle yarn and used mod podge stiffener on them.
Knitted Christmas garland ideas can be found here.
Gifts
Heart Garland (crochet) free pattern from Skip to my Lou (great to get ready for Valentine's Day- I also printed small photos & gifted them with mini clothespins from craft store)
Baskets- there are tons of patterns for crochet baskets. Useful + cute! You could use them as the container for other gifts too.
Cup cozy (great to pair with a gift certificate to your favorite local coffee place)
Fingerless mitts. Sizing is easier to guess on, aim for a ribbed pattern if you're really unsure about sizing.
Toys!
On a Happy Note
Labor Day weekend fun. Laura was in visiting from NY. Friday we scored big at the local second hand shops. We had an epic pool day at my parents' on Saturday. Sunday we hit the local dairy for ice cream with the girls then went to Megg's for dinner before seeing a Queen Cover Band at night.
Pigskin Kick Off & getting to spend so much time with you.
I scored a Luke's Diner tee from the clearance section at Target after Aila suggested it.
Stretching & Theragunning on a regular basis now that Liz and I text to check in on each other.
Liz took a picture of Millie's creepy baby doll which I later found on my phone and laughed myself silly over. Then Riley found the photo and made it one of my scrolling background/screensaver photos! Hijinx for the win!
Quote of the Week
Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can't strike them all by ourselves.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Apr 2021
Episode 206: Patreon Launch!
00:47:32
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 206 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. www.downcellarstudio.com/206
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Reminder: All Links that lead to Ravelry are labeled as such.
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Eme’s 17th Birthday Rainbow
Pattern: Rainbow Crochet pattern by AmiMami Doll on Etsy. $3.74 (on sale $3).
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Minis + Big Twist soft from Joann’s
When I visited with my Aunt Florence during her chemo treatment, I took out sock to show her. We got talking about how colorwork is done and the difference between intarsia and stranded colorwork. Just then, a nurse walked by and admired Dan’s sock. We got to chatting with her. She said she knits but hasn’t in awhile because of some joint pain but is looking forward to getting back into it.
KAL News
Splash Pad opens Friday May 28
You can sign up on May 1st. Stay tuned for the link.
Save the Date: Virtual Kick Off Weekend May 29 & 30, 2021
Rules will go up soon but as a reminder, WIPs are eligible for this KAL so if you want to get strategic and save stuff consider this your heads up.
Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KAL. This is the paid option ($50 for Splash Pad Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. Pro Shop sponsors receive 1 free 30 second promotional ad on the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, and first selection of Virtual Vending Spots for the Kick off Weekend Saturday May 29 & 30th.
Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be able to sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots. Snack Shack Sponsors may sign up for any available Virtual weekend spots available after Pro Shop Sponsor Sign Up.
Note: All Sponsors are required to contribute at least one prize with a minimum suggested value of $20.
Sponsor List (subject to change as we are still inviting sponsors)
Pro Shop Sponsor
AdoreKnit
agirlandherwool
Anne Beady
Cookie and Bees
Fibernymph Dye Works
Geektastic Fibers
Into The Woods
Irocknits Designs
Knit Style Yarns
Knitters Brewing Company
Prairie Bag Works
Sunsoaked Yarns
YumiYarns
Snack Shack Sponsor
19stitches
Bonnie Baker Etsy Shop
Cragen Cottage Designs
Hyacinth Creek Designs
Kino Knits
Knitosophy Designs
KnittenKristen Designs
Legacy Fiber Artz
Nicole Simmons Knits
Precision Athletic Training
Windswept Designs
Events
Know of something? Let me know.
NJ Wool Walk– April 17th through April 25, 2021. Mostly in person event but they’re also having a lot of virtual events.
2 Episodes of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast each month (24/year)
Several YouTube Videos per month on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.
Access to my public BostonJen1 Instagram Feed
(NOTE: You do not have to be a patron to continue to enjoy these offerings. They will always be free)
$3/month: Passionate Podsters:
Access to all blog posts in my Patreon feed. Behind the scenes in my making and more lifestyle details, tips etc. Reviews and other notes about finished projects. Lots of photos, sneak peeks of upcoming designs and more!
Access to private vlog video (approximately once per month)
And everything in the previous tiers.
$5/month: Stitchin’ Squad
Monthly Group Zoom Knit Nights during the Splash Pad Party & Pigskin Party MALs (make-a-longs).
Access to a private Instagram Feed with even more behind the scenes and lifestyle goodness.
And everything in the previous tiers
$7/month: Invaluable Insiders
A coupon to use in Jennifer Lassonde’s Ravelry Store each Quarter good for 1 free self-published pattern.
This tier will evolve depending on the group’s interest. I’ll take polls and see what you’re interested in. Perhaps we’ll do periodic Zoom chats focused on a specific topic with some Q&A at the end. Will record for those who aren’t available to attend live.
And everything in the previous tier.
$10/month: Ultimate Insiders
A coupon to use in Jennifer Lassonde’s Ravelry Store each Month good for 1 free self-published pattern.
Patron shoutouts on the podcast
Even more behind the scenes looks at designs in progress + the opportunity to help me name new patterns
And everything in the previous tiers
Special Offer: Sign up in April- any tier- and be invited to submit your questions in advance and to join Jen live on a Zoom all to discuss, time management, efficiency, goal setting or anything else you need help or motivation with. Zoom will be scheduled in May and will be recorded for those who can’t attend live.
On a Happy Note
I enjoyed my first time inside our local library in a long time. Got 3 books and snagged a great deal on some zoo passes for Riley and Aila’s birthday adventure.
First time decorating for Easter here using hand blown eggs from my family.
Easter festivities. Check out this vlog for some silly Easter dinner shenanigans. You can also see Millie reminding me how to latch hook.
Trying something new- daikon radishes my friend Melissa gave me.
Experimenting with going gluten free which seems to be helping my digestion…
The Last Blockbuster on Netflix
Quote of the Week
Never say anything about yourself you don’t want to come true.― Brian Tracy
I scored two great crafty books at Savers. Spent less than $6 for the pair!
Basic Crochet Stitches: 250 Stitches to Crochet. Edited by Erika Knight.
Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book
Knitting in Passing
I told stories about knitting with my 2 year old niece, Hattie, and her wearing my handknit socks. When she’s big she wants her own knitting and a bag for her knitting.
October 1- December 31: Slay the Stash Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years gains you an extra entry.
Pigskin Party ’20
Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry or on my website.
Festive sock along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1 #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Starts 9/22. I bought yarn from Area 51 Fibres. Can’t wait!
In Episode 192- Timenow13 on Instagram asked about listening to older episode of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. You can download The Podcast App– available for Apple + Android and go all the way back to Episode 1 (like I did this week. WOW!)
On a Happy Note
A clean house, decorated for fall!
We had a small social distant gathering at the house. Oisin, Will, Aila, and Declan were here working in the woods all day. Their parents came in the evening for a beer and some pizza. We had a camp fire and my best friend brought s’mores stuff.
I found another new trail. I’m enjoying watching the leaves falling and seeing our neighbors’ goats out and about.
When boys working in the yarn I took my grabber and cleaned up our frontage of so much litter!
“Life is a train of moods like a string of beads, and as we pass through them, they prove to be many-colored lenses which paint the world their own hue, and each shows only what lies in its focus.”– Ralph Waldo Emerson
I finished my Photo album for January- June 2018. I made my pages in the Project Life App and am printing through Picaboo. I order the 12×2 Lay Flat books. They’re pricy but the quality is beautiful.
Riley told me she’d like to make a cushion for a little nook in her room so I started teaching her crochet.
Garret, 10, took a bit of interest in my wheel and specifically the Tequila Sunrise colorway.
While Garret petted the wool, Riley dug out old Picaboo calendars that have collages of photos of the family and made pages for her own scrapbook.
Pigskin Party still going ahead as scheduled even if the NFL Football season is altered or canceled. I moved the start date to 9/25/20. We will kick off with virtual events on 9/25 & 26. More details to follow!
I am still looking for sponsors. Do you want to sponsor? Check out this page on my website and fill out the Google Form. Already signed up? Check your email for a confirmation email from me.
Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KAL. This is the paid option ($60 for Pigskin Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. I believe I have 9 left at this time so please fill out form soon if interested.
Interception Sponsors (Pigskin Party ONLY) host a challenge within the Pigskin Party ($25). There are a max of 5 spots.- 3 already filled.
Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots.
Events
Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group.
Used Green Stripe Ragg colorway of Patons Kroy for heel.
Whale Song Socks
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whale Song Colorway. If you’d like to purchase any Knit Picks Yarn I’d appreciate it if you’d use my Knit Picks Affiliate Link.
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 US knitting pattern)
I’m so inspired to make a bikini top after a crafty chat with my friend Emily (butterflyem4 on Instagram). She shared her Arrowhead Halter Top by The Knotty Lace Studio. Etsy Link. Ravelry Link.
I wear them often and I think they’re holding up well. Not overly dingy.
One note- Knit Circus has changed hands but this yarn base, according to Ravelry, isn’t discontinued.
Pair of socks I knit for Dan 5 years ago with Regia 4 ply. His first pair of patterned/self-striping socks. Check out my Ravelry Project Page. Also his first pair sock weight socks. Holding up beautifully!
Save the Date: Virtual Kick Off Weekend May 29 & 30, 2021
Rules will go up soon but as a reminder, WIPs are eligible for this KAL so if you want to get strategic and save stuff consider this your heads up.
Pro Shop Sponsors are given the opportunity to sell exclusive items before & during the KAL. This is the paid option ($50 for Splash Pad Party). There are a max of 20 spots per KAL. Pro Shop sponsors receive 1 free 30 second promotional ad on the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, and first selection of Virtual Vending Spots for the Kick off Weekend Saturday May 29 & 30th.
Snack Shack Sponsors will donate prizes but will not be sell KAL Exclusive products. This is free option and there are unlimited spots. Snack Shack Sponsors may sign up for any available Virtual weekend spots available after Pro Shop Sponsor Sign Up.
Note: All Sponsors are required to contribute at least one prize with a minimum suggested value of $20.
Events
If you’re hearing this right away, check out Legacy Fiber Artz Raffle to raise money For Hate is a Virus Community Action Fund. $5 each. The winner gets the entire bundle of their Spring Blossom Colorways- 5 skeins of yarn. Over $160 value. Ends March 31 at 8p Eastern. – Check out their Instagram Post & Enter to win
I heard about this on Taylor Owen’s Thread to Mend YouTube Channel. She is teaching a class called: Hand Crafting a Wardrobe from Fleece to Fabric with Taylor Owen
March 31st last day to use original version of Ravelry. I’m sad and frustrated that it has come to this. The eternal optimist in me was holding out hope that they’d fix the issues that have been reported. Tune in to hear more about my thoughts and my plan so far. If you know of good alternative, especially for a pattern database, please let me know.
I will not be using Ravelry from 3/31- 4/2 to support the worldwide ban that’s being organized.
The Sure of You Headband is a simple stockinette & reverse stockinette headband with a mock i-cord edging and flexible button closure at the back.
This pattern has been tech edited & test knit.All instructions are written and charted.
It calls for bulky weight yarn and US 8 Needles.
It is written for 4 sizes.
Use code friends on Ravelry to get the pattern for $4 instead of $5 or if you’re a newsletter subscriber, check your inbox for an even better coupon code.
Savers trip with Mom- blue sequin “Fearless” pouch! Fearless is Mom’s word of the year for 2021!
Hattie wearing the pink legwarmers I knit for Aila.
Hiking longer and in better weather.
Having friends over for a bonfire. Tractor rides for the kids. Jiffy pop!
Planning Disney trip for the whole fam!
Quote of the Week
“New goals don’t deliver new results. New lifestyles do. And a lifestyle is a process, not an outcome. For this reason, your energy should go into building better habits, not chasing better results.” -James Clear
Yarn held doubled throughout. For the Rainbow one, I held black doubled for bottom, then switched to pink/cream, purple/cream up through the rainbow. Curves a bit around the front and has an open spot with ties you can tie around the handle on the back.
Fiber: Merino from Beesy Bee Fibers in the Caribbean Hues Colorway
5 colors of blues and greens.
3 ply yarn. 173 meters for 4 oz.
Stash Dash- 692 meters
Recently heard on the Knit Boop Podcast that Yu Ra saves random singles and plies together into a scrappy skein when she has a bunch. Totally doing that with my leftovers.
Quarter 3 Sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Apple Fiber Studio, Cookie and BeesDon’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter:#FreetheFavorites #LessentheLibrary #SlaytheStash
Pigskin Party ’20
Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry or on my website. Important Links:
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Important Updates in this Episode: Save the date for our Virtual Events Friday 9/25 & Saturday 9/26.
Events
Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 200 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes including photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/200
This week’s segments included:
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Crochet Lion Amigurumi
Pattern: Crochet Lion Amigurumi by Melanie Willis available on Ravelry & Etsy
I’d like to make a garland (or two) for new white wall in my craft room.
Craving to knit/design a new hat! Slouchy style to wear with curls. I wear my Thumper Hatconstantly.
Crafty Adventures
I’m still working on my studio set up after painting a wall and re-arranging furniture. I hung up some handmade prints on an unused part of the chalkboard wall.
Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash. Thank you Quarter 4 Sponsors: APLCrafts, AdoreKnit, Jennifer Lassonde Designs- Ravelry Link/LoveCrafts Link. Tune to hear if you’re a winner.
Pigskin Party ’20
Check out all of the details you need to know either in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry or on my website. Important Links:
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
December Interception Winner Announced! Along with December Participation Winners!
Check out the January Interception: Stash Hat Scrimmage Hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Check out the Ravelry Thread or this page on my website.
Contest, News & Notes
Abington Mitts will be ready for test knitting soon! Get in touch if you’re interested.
Life in Focus
Check out this YouTube Video on my channel for a review of how I review the past year and plan for the next. Worksheets and printables are available in case you want to do this too!
Tune in for an overview on my 2020 review and Goals for 2021.
2021 Word of the Year: Delight Primary Goals:
3 strength/circuit/barre/yoga workouts per week (tracked in Fitbit app)
8 designs published
Make & assess goals every month in 2021
21 for 2021 List
Go to the MFA
Take at least 1 trip with Dan (weekend or longer) outside MA
Complete 10 pages/stories for my December Daily Album
Complete Book 2 for 2018 Photo Book
Finish Covid 19 scrapbook
Go Skiing
Knit a garment out of handspun
Kayak at 1 new place
Spent at least 1 weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
Hit 1,000 YouTube Followers
Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
Read/listen to 10 books
Take at least 12 baths
End the year with $5k more in savings($33k)
Take a trip with Mom
Take at least 1 knitting/crochet/spinning class
Go Apple Picking
Do something spontaneous and delightful
Carry over from 2020
Submit a pattern to at least 1 publication
Go camping
Do 1 in-store class or event at a local yarn shop (scheduled- didn’t happen)
Ask Me Anything
Tune in to hear my answers to questions asked on Instagram.
Boehmela asked about my knitting/crocheting plans for 2021. Some preliminary thoughts:
Knit with handspun
Spin more (not sure what that means)
brioche project
garland for my room.
finish my mystery gnome
do another advent swap
colorwork sweater for me.
sweater with my Rhinebeck 2019 yarn.
elisa.knits: Why don’t you knit blankets?
Bottom line: They take too long, get heavy and hurt my hands/arms.
mfcKnits- Quarantine Workout Routines
I aim to do live workouts online through my gym: Monday 6:15a ab class. Wednesday 6:15a Circuit, Thursday 12:15 upper body, Friday 6:15a tabata. In an ideal week I do all 4 but when that’s not possible, sometimes I watch one I wanted to attend live on replay or watch something on YouTube:
In the morning or on the weekends I enjoy hiking alone or with friends.
My thoughts: start small and make it really achieveable. When possible, find something you enjoy or if you don’t enjoy it, pair your workout with music/podcast you like.
Rplatt- asked about my Evernote usage. I am planning to create a YouTube video for this.
ecbThorman wanted to know my fav winter recipe. Truth I’m not really a recipe personal. Lately my go-to comfort food has been adding veggies to Trader Joes Poblano Corn Chowder.
On a Happy Note
January 6th, started with beautiful snowy walk, looking at the pink sky. Listening to updates about the Georgia Democrats winning two Senate seats. The day devolved into riots and violence but I’m glad I had that slow, beautiful start to my day.
Zoom chat with Melissa. Tip: Get together with a friend on Zoom where you don’t have to sit and just talk. Multi-tasking can make a Zoom call even more low-key and fun.
Seeing goats on my neighborhood walk!
Dan organized some of the unfinished side of our cellar adding a light and extended cork flooring there.
Trees cut down. It’s a relief to know they won’t fall on the house. Every time I take a walk and re-enter, it smells like a Christmas tree lot. Making me insanely happy.
Hiking with Megg, Oisin and Hattie!
Quote of the Week
Author and speaker Jim Rohn on the best response to the disappointments of life: “Let’s face it … people and events are going to continue to both hurt and disappoint you. Among the people will be those you most love, as well as those you least know. Seldom is it their intent to purposely hurt you, but rather, a variety of situations mostly beyond your control will cause them to act, speak, or think in ways which can have an adverse effect upon you, your present feelings and emotions, and the way your life upholds. It has been this way through six thousand years of recorded history, and your hurt or grief is not the first time a human has been deeply hurt by the inappropriate actions of another. The only way to avoid being touched by life––the good as well as the bad––is to withdraw from society, and even then you will disappoint yourself, and your imagining about what is going on out there will haunt you and hurt you. Knowing this, there is but one solution that will support you when people and events hurt you, and that is to learn to work harder on your personal growth than anything else. Since you cannot control the weather, or the traffic, or the one you love, or your neighbors, or your boss, then you must learn to control you … the one whose response to the difficulties of life really counts.”
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 277 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
KAL News
Events
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Woolen Camelot socks
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers Sock (80/20 SW Merino/Nylon) in the Woolen Camelot colorway from the May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box.
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Check out my Unboxing Video for this May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box & the more recent June box which is available now. If you're thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link.
It won't cost you any extra. I will make a small commission.
Same as It Ever Was Hat #2
Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn: Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks. No colorway listed.
I started this project in January. Used nearly all of the yarn. Loved this yarn/pattern combo. I am planning to keep this hat! It is plenty long enough to wear with the brim folded and still have it worn slouchy.
Colleen's Baby Blanket
Pattern: Crochet Modern Boho Granny Blanket by Tiffany Brown (free crochet pattern available on this website)
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Blue Mint, Soft Green, Riviera (Speckle), Kelly Green, Robin's Egg, White Sage (Speckle) & White
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall.
Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link.
The patterns for this kit will be the Northeasterly Blanket by Melissa Alexander-Loomis (knit version) and the Northeasterly blanket by Katy Stevens (crochet version).
Progress: I finished my April squares and am working on the border.
Raven Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn in the Raven Colorway from the Yarnable Box.
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
I really enjoy this pattern. It's a 2 row repeat that I remember having memorized the first time around but thought I couldn't this time. After working maybe 10 repeats, I was able to memorize it. It's just the cozy comfort project I need right now.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
No Splash Pad Party this Summer, but check out these other awesome online events
The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024.
Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself.
Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!
Life in Focus
I shared more details about my parents' car accident. Tune in to hear more. Thankfully they are both recovering.
Resources- Scituate Etrusco- serves the South Shore of MA with medical equipment that they loan out. Huge savings! Look for something similar near you.
I'm not sure what this will mean for mom's upcoming cancer treatments. She was supposed to be healing to be ready for radiation. Will know more within the next week.
On a Happy Note
Conor & Carly hosted a family game night for their Bucket List with a Twist item with my mom. We played Code Names & Penny Drop!
Riley gave Auntie Krissy the chicken we made together and she was over the moon! It was awesome.
My cousin Jenny had her baby girl, Vera Camela, at the hospital where I work, so I got to hold her when she was only a few hours old!
I went to see a local production of Gypsy that my friend Megg was in.
My 12 year old niece Millie was a huge help with my parents.
I finished my drawing class at the local rec center. I had to miss 2 out of 6 classes, but I learned a lot doing a portrait of Eme from a photo I took of them at the playground when they were a kid.
I took my grandmother to my cousin Colleen's baby shower. Coleen had a great reaction to her crocheted blanket. I'm always grateful for that.
We had a birthday dinner for Aila- low key backyard party made more interesting by a full-family cartwheel contest!
Big work project rolling out new technology went well. I was still able to take Mom to her appointments (while Dad wasn't driving and they didn't have a car), and was able to work other shifts so my coworkers could attend their kids events. As a thank you for that, my boss invited us to use a suite at the Garden for game 1 of the Celtics/Cavaliers Playoff Game! The Celtics crushed it. Dan wasn't able to come, so I brought my friend Liz who is a huge fan.
My friend Laura came in to visit for Mother's Day weekend- along w/ 7 of my Mom's friends. We went to a movie on Friday night then to visit Mom and her guests on Saturday. Sunday we made brunch for Mother's Day and then off to see Millie as a Munchkin and Flying Monkey in the Wizard of Oz at a local theater.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Quote of the Week
“It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The thrill of taking lasts a day. The thrill of giving lasts a lifetime.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Thank you to Lynn (LynnPar) for enabling. She messaged me to say that Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick was on sale at Joann’s. I scored 4 skeins of colorway: Storm Front to make a Nanaimo Cardigan (to match Riley’s).
Vogue Knitting Keynote with Stephen West (click here for his website) has me wanting to cast on one of his designs because it would be fun to make and have, but also to learn and continue to stretch my skills.
Reflections on the Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (Hoopla) Bookshop Affiliate Link, Amazon Affiliate Link
Glow on Netflix. Great knits- lots of texture, great silhouettes, lots of mohair or other yarn with halo. Super inspiring. Content warning- drugs, sex, smoking.
I’m participating in a Designer Spotlight on Sunday May 16 at 3p.
General Admission is $7.00
Contest, News & Notes
Patreon Update: its been fun seeing so many of you sign up! Check out my Patreon page to see the kinds of things you’d get access to if you want to join. Reminder: Those in the $5+ tiers get access to my private IG feed & to the monthly Zoom hangout during the KALs. Need more incentive? We have a new challenge starting in May.
Check out my latest knitting design: Glass Ceiling Hat Pattern $5 on LoveCrafts and Ravelry
Get 30% off with code “breakit” through 5/15/21 OR if you’re a newsletter subscriber, check your inbox for an even better deal.
On a Happy Note
I had fun celebrating LYS Day. Yarn’s End in Norwell teamed up with Dirty Water Dyeworks for kits for my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl. You can still get those kits online here.
I bought some yarn for a colorwork sweater I’m dreaming of knitting at Staci’s Stitches.
Sitting outside on the porch. Pattern writing and knitting while the boys work.
Last Saturday the boys installed a tire swing. Not just any tire swing- but our old backhoe tire swing! It’s glorious and fun!
Really enjoyed my Vogue Knitting classes in April!
I had a blast catching up with my friend Kristi (krisluvswool on Instagram). You can check out all the crafty projects Kristi is making (and my recent projects too) on my YouTube Channel.
I also recently recorded a Crafty Chat with Shana (shanalines_designs on Instagram) that will go up soon.
Riley & Aila’s birthday day out!!
Planning Hattie’s first sleepover!
Quote of the Week
In limits, there is freedom. Creativity thrives within structure. Creating safe havens where our children are allowed to dream, play, make a mess and, yes, clean it up, we teach them respect for themselves and others.- Julia Cameron
Pattern: Recalibrate Top by Shana Cohen (test knit) Find Shana on Instagram.
Needles: US 8
Yarn: 2 Skeins of Teal Torch Knits in colorways: Charcoal & Dowager Countess. Goosey Fibers Goosey Sock in the Scarecrow Colorway, MadelineTosh Tosh Sock in the Birch Grey Colorway
CO 60 sts. 2×2 rib. Reduced down to 56 after heel.
Dragonboat Christmas Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Dragonboat (self striping), Minis from Holly Press Fibers for Cuff. Heel & Toe in Twisted Owl Fiber Studios in the Poison Ivy colorway
Last June I used some Lion Brand Re-up in rainbow colors plus gray and Black to make a fun Mason Jar Cozy. We use it all the time but with washing and nearly daily use it could probably stand to be replaced. Ravelry Project Page
2 years ago I finished up a scrappy hexagon blanket that I later gifted to friend and co-worker Lauren for her baby girl, Meadow. I still see her posting pics of her daughter using it. Ravelry Project Page
Took Mom’s advice and separated out whole skeins of embroidery floss into the 3 strands I needed and put them on bobbins. From there I could load my punch needle and keep going until I decided to cut instead of running out of floss and having to thread it again and again. Got through nearly all of the sheep!
In My Travels
Dan & I enjoyed our first Tentrr experience. Site: Mauralou Farm in Rhode Island.
We had dinner in Westport MA at the Back Eddy Restaurant.
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details. They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
I talked about how I planned for and successfully navigated a really intense work week!
On a Happy Note
During the first weekend of June we had Hattie and Oisin for a sleepover. Starte d the weekend with a surprise school pick up for Hattie & taking her out for ice cream.
We enjoyed our nephew Will’s confirmation + picnic by the beach after.
Getting 4 days in a row with my dear friend Kim.
Listening to audiobooks with Dan.
Swap box from my Merry Everything and Happy Always Swap Partner in the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group Can’t wait to open each day in July!
Birthday Flowers + puzzle from Dan
Quote of the Week
Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action. “― William James
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 216 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes including photos can be found on my website by clicking here: www.downcellarstudio.com/216
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Recent trip to the Berkshires, chatted with a lovely couple from CT around the fire outside the lodge. The husband talked about how he learned to crochet when he was young, much to his father’s dismay. His family lived on a campground in the summer and his mother, grandmother and aunts all crocheted so they taught him and he really enjoyed it. He said he also had a cross stitch kit he bought ages ago and he’s looking forward to diving into that during retirement and longing for that meditative space of the repetition of the thread and the needle!
In My Travels
Stay Tuned for Vacation Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Mom and I recorded a chat about our week towards the end of our stay. Will pop in videos and photos we took turn the vacation!
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Not familiar? It’s a ridiculously fun make-a-long that runs all through the NFL football season. We typically have a couple hundred participants each year. For each FO you finish, you earn touchdown & field goal points. You also earn points for using sponsor products & fulfilling other challenges. For every 100 points earned, you get an entry into our Grand Prize drawing. We also have lots of prizes reserved for participation on Ravelry and Instagram to keep it fun and light.
30 Day Tailgate Talk Challenge. Begins 9/10/21. Find all of the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Not too late to start now.
Starting Friday September 10th, answer one question a day in Your Team’s thread on Ravelry (not in the Huddle Thread unless you want to share in there as a bonus) and/or on Instagram using #DCSPigskinTailgate21. If you share your answers to all 30 questions, enter the Points Tally Form and you’ll get 150 points for playing. Note- you cannot enter for these points until 10/8/21.
September Interception: hosted by Cori of Irockknits Designs. Check out her patterns on Ravelry. Check out the Interception details here.
Events
Tune in to hear the results of my annual challenge with Jasmin of the Knitmore Girls to “win” Stash Dash.
I am teaching a class on the OMG Heel Socks at Staci’s Stitches in Scituate, MA. Classes will be held from 6:30 – 8:30 PM on Wednesdays, starting Oct. 20, and continuing on Oct. 27, Nov. 3 and 10. $80 for the 4 sessions. There are a few spots still left.
Don’t forget- if you join our Patreon Community you’ll have access to lots of blog posts, vlog videos and challenges! So close to my goal of 75 patrons!
Sagamore Flyover Hat coming soon! Sign up for my email newsletter to be the first to find out when it drops. Bulky weight, textured hat. Written for beanie and slouchy options. Baby sizes through adults. Some of my testers had so much fun they knit up 2 in less time than I had allotted for them to make 1!
Michele at WoolensandNosh is offering kits for Millie Margaret Shawl.
Life in Focus
Getting back into routine after vacation feels great.
Seeing our niece Emelyn and meeting her roommate. Ramen & vintage clothing store shopping!
Antiquing – got 4 fiber crafty items. One is embroidery. The other is, I believe, Crewel Embroidery. I also got antique wooden spools and a set of vintage wooden sock blockers
Spa day with Mom. Have you heard of a Lash Lift & Tints? We tried it!
Hiking at Mt. Greylock with Mom and Dad. Highest point in MA.
Seeing the Natural Bridge in North Adams, MA. The only White Marble Dam in North America.
Even though our hike was canceled we still got to see Peck’s Falls.
Kayaking with Dan and Claire
2 weeks off!!!
Quote of the Week
If you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life. Frank Lloyd Wright
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Dec 2023
Episode 268: Christmas Cheer
00:47:06
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 268 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Domingo the Easter Goat
Pattern: I used the basic idea from this crochet pattern available on Etsy.
Hook:
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Clarity (blue- body), Mint (green- stripe on egg), Custard (yellow- egg) + pink and taupe mystery yarn
I made mine much smaller than called for in the Etsy pattern. chained around 10 stitches, worked in the round from there to make a base and then come up for body/head like a Squishmallow.
Space Daddy Socks
Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.
Liz's Socks
Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Progress Notes- I crocheted all 9 squares from the November kit (theme- Tomb of the Lost Queen). I still need to seam them up and add a border
Christmas in July Socks
Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
Sled Decorating with Mom. Check out our beautiful project.
Knitting in Passing
In talking about vlogging at the gym, we also got talking about knitting and I learned that my friend Taylor wants to learn to knit.
I was knitting at Nutcracker intermission and Hattie did a stitch before the lights went down.
I was knitting at my niece's Funky Nutcracker performance which was so long. Megg’s neighbors said I’d have a whole blanket done before it was over.
Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Updates from Commentator Mary
Tune in to hear if you're the winner of the Quarter 2 challenge.
November Participation Prize Winners be will announced in the next episode.
Updates from Commentator Mary
There’s lots of talk about favorite warm beverages and baking in the December thread:
If you are a tea lover, check out post 288, where multiverseknits shared some of their favorite places to buy tea.
If you are a sourdough baker, check out post 628 where lmecoll shared a recipe for sourdough chocolate chip cookies that she will not be making but has heard are quite good.
I also popped over to the end zone dance thread to see what people have finished lately. One project in particular caught my eye:
Rubyrx recently finished a slip stitch party shawl in yarn from sheep she raised! She proceeded, spun, dyed and knit up the yarn into a gorgeous shawl! Amazing!! Check it out on Ravelry.
December 1 we celebrated Dan's birthday & Mom's 2nd anniversary of diagnosis. So grateful she’s here!
Mom, Riley, Trish, Merry and I went to a Sample Sale. Mom, Riley and I then did more shopping and a "bakery tour." I definitely recommend that Vlogmas episode. It’s very silly.
Attending live performances of: Aladdin Jr. , the Nutcracker, The Plot Thickens and the Funky Nutcracker.
Running into my old boss at work
Hattie's sleepover. She enjoyed crafting time, pancakes and a tractor ride with Uncle Dan.
My cousin Colleen having a baby boy in June!
Deer in the compost bins.
Working on a puzzle advent with Dan.
Quote of the Week
"Summer is for surrendering; winter is for wondering.” — Debasish Mridha
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Jan 2024
Episode 271: Fiber Events & FearLESS Fundraising
00:57:00
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 271 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website- www.downcellarstudio.com/271
For these DK socks, I cast on 48 sts and followed the OMG heel instructions for that stitch count. I worked more ruonds of ribbing than I usually do and used that as the whole leg of the sock, then worked heel, and foot as usual. I included some colorwork in a neon coral DK yarn to say " I love" on the left sock and "you more" on the right sock. When squished up it looks like it says I Love You Mom which is also perfect!
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Jenny's Blanket
Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
We recently had a crafty sleepover at my parents- Kris, Aila, Megg, Hattie, Millie, Riley (Jeff for a bit), Mom & her long-time friend Lin.
Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! Check them out at StitchedbyJessalu.com and stay tuned for a special FearLESS Living Fund themed bag coming soon as part of the February Fundraiser for BostonJensMom.
In My Travels
Mom, Millie and I met up with our friend Ryan at the Farm Fiber Days Event at Wayland Farmers Market at Russells Garden Center.
Millie was looking for yarn to knit a hat for her dad. We found it in one of the first booths- Plied Yarns. Always great to see Ann Weaver. We did a full loop and went back to purchase yarn.
I bought a handsewn chicken potholder set.
The Blue Heron Farm (in Vermont) hosted their table for folks to learn Needle Felting. Millie made Ryan a butterfly like the ones she made for us. Thanks to "Auntie Shelly" at Blue Heron for encouraging Millie.
I bought a mini skein bundle from The Golden Purls. I got a quilted bucket bag from M.A.B.E.L, yarn for hat, earrings & a bracelet with fabric covered beads.
Other New York City Notable Moments:
Saturday- farmer's market, walked the High Line, visited Chelsea Market, had dinner at Shukette & saw Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway.
Sunday- we saw Poor Things at a theater in Lincoln Center and continued our Oscar Nominee movie watch with Past Lives & Anatomy of a Fall (which I didn't enjoy as much as The Replacements which we watched earlier in the weekend)
Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the 4th Quarter Lolodidit. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Reminder- the KAL ends on February 12th. Get those projects finished!
Update from Commentator: Mary
There's lots of strategizing and discussion about what there is and is not time to finish before the end of PSP. Relatedly, there is some discussion about the joys of finishing longstanding WIPs even if those projects don't count for pigskin party.
There was also recently some discussion on pros and cons of different approaches to provisional cast ons, including a method where you use a stitch saver instead of scrap yarn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olAZk2tkTus).
Finally, there's been some talk of travel plans including the intense decision making process that crafters go through when they are trying to decide what projects to bring on a trip. This has included discussion of pros and cons of checking luggage vs. carrying on and some musings about who decided that packing light is a value we should all aspire to anyway.
Here's a highlight from the endzone dance thread: Sandyrlevin completed an amazing sweater with a really detailed octopus on it. She did it all with duplicate stitch! It is truly amazing. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Sandyrlevin/217-12-amur-maple
To make a personal donation, you can use this link
Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you’re part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser.
I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.
More About This Project:
February 9th is my mom, Diane Lassonde’s, birthday. Diane came up with the idea for the FearLESS Living Fund when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in December 2021. Since then, each birthday we celebrate with her is precious and this year, with your help, I want to make her birthday month even MORE special by raising funds for this charity she’s created.
The FearLESS Living Fund picks up where the Blind Center of Nevada’s services leave off, helping their outstanding clients to live more fearlessly in pursuit of their dreams. In 2023, we gave out over $9,000 in scholarships. You can watch a video of the event here. With your help, we can raise even more.
I also have some wonderful goodies here that I am going to giveaway. I'll be pulling winners from those who donate via the PayPal page. Be sure to mention you're part of the Fiber Community Fundraiser and list your Instagram or Ravelry Name so I can find you and send you your prize.
Life in Focus
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
Found a heart mural in NYC
Bought a small heart shaped pottery dish to use for stitch markers at a local shop where everything is handcrafted by disabled students at their school.
Made a collage of photos (from Walgreens template) from family photo shoot and had it printed 11x14. Now I need to find a place to hang it.
Looked at heart jewelry but didn't find any pieces that were "me" so I'm still looking.
24 for 2024 List- updates
Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. ($51,397- includes CD)
Make & assess goals each month of the year
Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund (DONE)
Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items.
Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
Add one new indoor plant to my collection (DONE)
Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
Publish at least one new pattern
Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress
Take a class (DONE)
Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
Go skiing
Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 1) Hercules
Do something special for our Anniversary in May
Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
Buy a new blow dryer.
Get my car detailed (DONE)
Buy new curtains for living room- ordered some to try on 1/19
Try a new local restaurant - Lolita (want one even MORE local)
4 of 24 done in January!
On a Happy Note
I was chatting with my friend Margarita who is from the Philippines. She mentioned she gets dried mango in bulk from home and sent some over to me! So sweet of her!
Movie night with Liz- Hercules.
Car Detailing! It literally feels and smells like a new car! Usually 3+ month wait list- but not at this time of year.
Mom made it through Round 1 of Chemo- 3 days in a row. My cousin Jenny (also a nurse at the hospital) visited during day 2 and our cousin Joanie took Mom in on day 3 instead of dad. It was great to spend some quality time with them.
Seeing Moulin Rouge with Megg at the Boston Opera House (and dinner at Lolita beforehand)
Quality time with Laura & my first visit to NYC since before the pandemic...
Quote of the Week
Energy creates energy. It is by spending myself that I become rich.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
01 Jul 2022
Episode 234: Blankets & Bobbins
00:49:13
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 234 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.
Three Waters farm Fiber- Forested Hills Colorway (blues & greens). Three Waters Farm Corriedale- pulled out the blues/greens and yellows pulled from the Quintessence colorway. Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blue.
Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in the Peacock colorway (Main), Brava in the Dove Heather Colorway (gray), and Craft Smart Value Yarn in the Neon Yellow Colorway
Hooks: 5.5mm (J) for the cast on & 6.0mm (I) for the body
Acquiring 2 bags of yarn from a friend moving on from knitting into quilting. Not sure what I can make out of her stash, but very much looking forward to giving that a go.
I have all sorts of blanket mojo. If you do too, check out some of these charities excepting donations.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
I crocheted in 2018. Check out my Ravelry Project Page here. Pattern is the Easy Breezy Swim Cover by Megan Shaimes (free on the Meg Made with Love Blog or ad-free for $3.50 on Etsy).
Knitting in Passing
Millie called me to re-learn the purl but she knew how to do it after all.
While waiting for a train, a lady sat down and asked if this was the knitting bench. She pulled out a lime green dish cloth she brought with her to knit on while waiting for an appointment.
As I was getting off train the other day, a man asked when I was done crocheting what was my project going to be. He said he looked forward to seeing my progress if he sees me again.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
Jasmin is 1700 meters ahead, but we still have 2 full months! I am planning to go to Rhinebeck and look forward to the satisfcation of having her hand over our Sash!
Life in Focus
Furious about the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe versus Wade? Check out this website Action For All (choice.crd.co). It is really easy to navigate website that gives options for where to donate, volunteer, protest, and to find access to healthcare including abortion including region specific links.
I also invite you to check out the Earbuds Collective recommendations for podcasts on the topic of Abortion.
On a Happy Note
Dancing in the 40th Anniversary Recital & a fun after party.
Millie’s impromptu sleepover. pancakes and hike before heading to dad’s for Father’s Day
Father’s Day- too cold for a pool day, but we had fun inside playing games.
Carly’s bridal shower
Riley graduated 8th grade!.
Pool Day with Mom’s eBay friends + a few of our friends too.
Quote of the Week
Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see. –JOHN GREEN
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Sep 2021
Episode 217: Hats!
00:41:43
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 217 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/217
I had hoped to donate these Snap Hats to Hats for Sailors Project but they are requesting 100% wool (ideally superwash wool) for its flame resistant quality.
Without a Paddle Hat
Pattern: Without a Paddle by Mary Hull of Kino Knits
Needles: US 3
Yarn: Handspun gifted to me by Melissa: Frabjeous Fibers Tri-Color BFL in the Cottage Garden Colorway- Click here for Melissa’s Ravelry Page for this handspun
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I shared a story about chatting with my friend’s uncles about hand knits they received as kids.
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Threadand using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
September SkillsBuilding Interception: hosted by Irocknits Designs. Find the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Runs September 15-October 1, 2021. Thank you, Cori, for hosting. Find her patterns on her website & on Ravelry.
October Interception: INCREASE Your Score: hosted by Wendy of Knitters Brewing Company. Details will posted before this opens on 10/5. Prize: $30 gift certificate to the Knitters Brewing Co Etsy Shop
I am teaching a class on the OMG Heel Socks at Staci’s Stitches in Scituate, MA. Classes will be held from 6:30 – 8:30 PM on Wednesdays, starting Oct. 20, and continuing on Oct. 27, Nov. 3 and 10. $80 for the 4 sessions.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Apr 2020
Episode 182: Crafting through the Pandemic
00:44:15
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 182 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/182
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles
On the Needles
Crafty Adventures
KAL News
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Prairie Bag Works
Pattern: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter $7 US Knit Pattern
Yarn: 2 skeins of Two Reds & A Blonde DK from Dachinger Wool in mustard (Farrah Fawcett) and a blue (Veronica Lake). 2 skeins of Brown Sheep Yarn- Prairie Spun DK. In Rain Cloud (light gray) and Owl Gray (Charcoal)
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
Size 3: finished bust- 40 inches Designed to fit with 1-4.5 inches of positive ease.
Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia (free crochet pattern)
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Crafty Adventures
Dan and I spray painted sheet for Emelyn’s birthday parade
Talked on the last episode about the Crispina Scrapbox Challenge. Mom and I both participated. Our stories and projects are on the blog. Mom’s post is here. Find my post here.
KAL News
Quarterly Quests: Tune in to hear if you’re a Quarter 1 Winner
Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before
Stay Out of the Forest is a DK colorwork hat inspired by true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder. It’s the perfect hat for my fellow Murderinos! It is written for 2 sizes, and uses 3 skeins/colors of yarn. The colorwork charts make it easy to fly through this project. I recommend mostly tonal or solid yarn with a lot of contrast from the other colors. You especially want contrast between the MC and CC1. If you really want to delve into the My Favorite Murder theme, check out the beautiful yarns I used from Goosey Fibers!
Full details can be found on the pattern page on Ravelry.
Life in Focus
Tune in to hear an update on my 2020 goals
Ask Me Anything
Meliabella asked: Your Favorite Way to decompress after working remotely during Covid.
Knitwise09- To celebrate the release of your new hat- tell us your hometown murder. I kept it family friendly on the podcast but here’s a link to a serial killer named Gary Sampson who grew up in my mom’s neighborhood. He and my Uncle used to play together as kids.
Agirlandherwool- how has planning and organizing your to do lists changed during this stay at home quarantine?
Jen.on.the.block- thinking of knitting the Mezzo cardigan. Curious how much you wear/love yours. I love mine! Here’s a link with details. Highly recommend knitting one.
My niece Riley asked- Crafty adventures you’ve had or would like to try- Brioche.
jen.cragen- how you’re feeling with all of this stuff in the world. So many feelings. Tune in to hear more.
On a Happy Note
Eme’s Sweet 16 Birthday Parade
Mom making us all masks. As always I’m so grateful for her.
I did a video chat with Riley for her 12th birthday. She asked me how to bind off headband she was making. Worked on that then pulled out a cowl project I cast on and gave her for Christmas.
Virtual happy hour with friends on Saturday night.
An unusual but lovely Easter.
Quote of the Week
“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” —Hermann Hesse
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 220 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes & photos check out my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/220
Dinosaur Tails Fidget Toy ($1 crochet pattern) Ravelry Link by Knitty Natty
Go Fun like Gnome Fun by Sarah Shira- Ravelry Link. Website Link.
Ball Band Cozy by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern)- Ravelry Link. LoveCrafts Link.
Cashmears by Sarah Jordan ($4 knitting pattern) Ravelry Link- cabled DK headband
Do or Do Not Hat by Cassandra Cruikshank of Eat Knit & Dye- $5 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link. Bulky baby Yoda hat
Trail Mix by Lisa K. Ross- $4 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link- fingering weight cable mitts- 6 mo to 6 years
Without a Paddle Hat by Mary Hull Kino Knits-$6 Knitting Pattern. Ravelry Link
Phishing Mitt(en)s by Jesie Ostermiller $6 knitting pattern- Ravelry Link. DK weight colowork mitts/mittens inspired by Phish Foods Ben & Jerry ice cream
Rambler cowl by Lisa Cannon (Fibernymph Dye Works- Ravelry Link. $5 Worsted weight twisted stitch and lace cowl
Muskoka Cowl by Brenda Castiel- Ravelry Link. $6 Knitting pattern. Dk weight- non-traditional Fair Isle designs such as checkerboards, diamonds and chevron stripes.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Riley wore her Nanaimo Cardigan to play rehearsal and texted me to say her Director really liked it!
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
This episode:
Congrats to October Interception Winner- KarensAdventures
Check out the details of the November Interception hosted by Shanalines Designs. Find details in this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc. Cast on 11/1/21 or later. Deadline to post is 11/30/21.
I teased the December Interception: Cozy Up Challenge with Knitty Natty
Live Event: 12:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 1st on the Knitty Natty YouTube Channel.The event with be a live cast on party + a live tutorial with tips for the knit Yarn Cozy Lite pattern
Monthly Scavenger Hunt: Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
Events
Indie Design Gift-a-Long coming up: November 28-December 31, 2021
The sale period will run Tuesday, November 23 at 8 pm (US-EST) through Monday, November 29 at 11:59 pm (US-EST)
I’ll be teaching Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches starting in January.
Karen & Jessica of the Make Good Podcast are hosting a Sock KAL. Check out their website for details.
Windswept Monique of the Knitting on the Run Podcast is hosting her annual Be a Helper Craft-a-long. Check out her website for details or Monique’s Instagram Page.
Vogue Knitting Live in NYC in January 2022 has been canceled. They’re currently planning for: February 9–12, 2023
Stitches West: March 3-6, 2022 (proof of vaccination + masks will be required) in Sacramento, CA
Life in Focus
I checked off another of my 21 in 2021 list items. #18 Do something spontaneous and delightful. Whisked Aila and Riley off to Great Barrington to see Emelyn!
Even more delightful- in brainstorming what they want for Christmas the kids looked through my Rav pages at what I’ve already made them which was delightful in and of itself, but then we found a cute photo of Eme at age 10 w/ a pair of mitts and a cowl I made her. She had that set with her, so we did a recreation photo!
Ask Me Anything
Dorothy asked about Thanksgiving Plans.
On a Happy Note
Halloween pics of the kiddos.
Fun mail: my Advent Swap & my Legacy Fiber Artz calendar!
Teaching sock knitting classes.
Switching up the path of my morning walks.
Playing games with the girls on vacation. Relative Insanity & What do you Meme.( All variations on Apples to Apples/Cards Against Humanity)
Yarnable Subsription Box- November box contained an awesome Apple candle and mulling spices for apple cider. Delicious!
I got to see my cousin Jenny at work 2 days in a row!
Doing a bit of work on the side with my first boss at MGH.
Quote of the Week
“I love repetition. Repetitions turn time into a place, turns the days into a house, where the repetitions form the walls, floor, and ceiling.”– Karl Ove Knausgaard
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jan 2024
Episode 270: Heart
00:51:05
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 270 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Calendula Christmas Quilt
Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Progress Notes- first 3 sets of squares seamed & border added. December squares- all 9 done. not seamed.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the 4th Quarter Lolodidit. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Tune in to see if you're one of our Quarter 3 Challenge Winners or a December Participation Prize Winners
The last day to register for Pigskin is 1/31. Reminder- the event ends on Monday 2/12/24! Get those projects finished.
Updates from Commentator Mary
Lots of chatter on the ravelry boards about the Q4 challenge! First to submit was player Audioann--who knit a really cool beanie with a large diagonal cable. It has a super interesting construction--you knit a flat parallelogram shaped piece and then seam it up. Check it out: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/audioann/viviani-beanie-2
In the endzone dance thread, there are so many great projects! In particular, a lot of stuffies caught my eye. It should come as no surprise that a bunch of people knit imaginedlandscapes' mystery gnomes last month since she is a sponsor. Here are a few examples:
In other stuffie news, stitchr made pill bug stuffed animal that is truly awesome! It has rainbow legs and a bright orange and red body but it still rolls up into a gray ball. Super cool!
I'm taking classes on Friday & then planning to go to the market 5-8p Friday.
I'm teaching a class on the OMG Sock Pattern at Staci's Stitches in Scituate, MA on Sundays starting February 18th (4 classes)- the class is SOLD OUT
Contest, News & Notes
Yarnable Unboxing January 2024 Video posted- this kit came with stitch markers with numbers on them, 25, 50, 75, 100 intended for use when casting on a large amount of stitch. Hawkeygirl3 on YouTube suggested it would also be great for counting rows/rounds like on the leg of a sock if you want to do matching ones! Great idea
Trips: Nashville, Maryland, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Rhinebeck.
23 for 2023 list
Read 23 books (35 as of August)
Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes
Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos (ordered 8/9 from Walgreens- 8x10 for $12!)
Kayak in one new place Did not complete
Hike in one new place
See 4 plays/musicals (Hamilton 2/9, Shrek in March twice. Secret Garden at Company in April, Matilda [Millie] in May)
Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October & December done)
Knit myself a pair of mittens
Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun (Strathcona sweater "aka my Rhinebeck sweater"
Watch 3 movies in one day (1/22 w/ Mom, Terri, Megg- Everything. Everywhere, All At Once. Women Talk. Armageddon Time)
See a movie in the theater (A Man Called Otto w/ Laura)
Go to a museum (Liz and I went in December)
Finish 1 punch needle project- Did not complete
Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4)- Did not complete
Try at least 1 new gym/in person fitness option 4/8- consult at Big Day Fitness. First class on 4/10. Signed up for a month.
Make at least 1 new financial investment (CD started in February)
Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. After a smaller clean out earlier in the year, I took a full car load to Savers in October- lots of clothes.
Publish 1 knitting pattern
Send 5 cards to friends/family just because- Did not complete
Go Camping- Did not complete
Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram
Take a class (in person or virtual)- Zumba twice.
Create a new music playlist. Riley’s. Plus CMA fest artists.
2024 Word of the Year- Heart
Definitions:
The central or innermost part of something
To like very much, love
courage, determination, hope or enthusiasm (don't lose heart)
the vital part or essence
one's real nature (at heart)
What I want to focus on in 2024:
Stay close to my family- which is the heart and life blood of my life.
Be true to my heart- what I value, what's most important to me.
I won't lose heart even when times are hard.
I will be true to my heart, my real nature, the heart of me.
2024- Goals:
Use my podcast/YouTube/Instagram following to raise money for the FearLESS Living Fund (details in the Ravelry group- and email if you're one of our regular sponsors)
Make & assess goals every month in 2024
Monthly review of number of workouts + weigh on at least twice a month.
Stretch/Theragun 2-4 times a week [][][][]
24 for 2024 list
Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy
End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January.
Make & assess goals each month of the year
Read more books than you did in 2023 (50)
Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund
Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items.
Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site
Add one new indoor plant to my collection
Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room
Publish at least one new pattern
Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun
Knit/crochet myself a new sweater
Make a Christmas afghan for the living room
Take a class
Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe
Go skiing
Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list
Do something special for our Anniversary in May
Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items
Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed
Buy a new blow dryer.
Get my car detailed
Buy new curtains for living room
Try a new local restaurant
Health update on my Mom, Diane: She was hospitalized for several days because of issues with heart palpitation and then we learned her cancer is back in brain, lymph nodes, pleura (lining of lungs) and ribs. She will start with the same chemo she had last time (Oct '22- March '23). It’s likely she’ll also need radiation for the brain, but will do an MRI 4 weeks after chemo starts to know for sure & decide what’s best… Health update video coming soon. Keep those prayers and good wishes coming. Diane starts chemo Monday 1/22.
On a Happy Note
We had a great visit with my friend Laura who was here for New Year's. We struck a great balance of lazily watching tv (The Gilded Age & Slow Horses) and getting out and about. We also went to see Boys in the Boat the movie theater.
My parents' annual open house the Saturday after Christmas.
Mom gave the girls needle felting kits for Christmas; Millie Facetimed me several times with questions and showing me her progress!
Getting sick has not been fun, but the fact that it didn't ruin my holidays and the fact that work is also still relatively quiet is a huge happy note. Dan has been taking great care of me, and we're rewatching Hell On Wheels.
I spent Sunday of MLK weekend at my parents'. We played Wordle board game (Amazon affiliate link) with Mom, Riley, Millie and Aila. We visited my cousin Jenny's new house, got our nails done, went out for Mexican, played more games! Fun impromptu sleepover.
Millie- All of the Jokers have been Joked! and telling Grammy to "be her best self" adorable.
Quote of the Week
Everything and everyone at their own pace. Flow with not against yourself.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Jun 2020
Episode 187: Pan, Demic & Pride
00:41:15
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 187 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
Tune in to hear if your name was randomly selected for a June participation prize. Keep posting in Poolside chat thread and use #splashpadparty20 on IG.
Events
Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group
Tour de Fleece runs from Saturday June 27 to Sunday July 19
Life in Focus
Goals for year- 7 patterns- 3x week workouts
3x week workouts are still going strong.
Design- I finished the knitting and most of the writing of another pattern (which will be #5 for the year).
Continuing work on Me & White Supremacy workbook.
I need to revisit my 20 for 2020 list because some things like visiting 2 new cities just won’t be realistic.
On a Happy Note
Walking with my BFF while kids worked in yard with Dan.
Two tiny fawns and their moms who are hanging around our property a lot right now.
Father’s Day at my parents with my brother’s 3 kids. Outdoor movie night. Seafood. Swimming.
Judging jumps off the diving board using the score cards Riley made (0.0, 1, 2 and 3)
Oisin’s birthday.
Dan playing guitar again.
Date night at the Drive In to see the new Lion King.
Quote of the Week
“There is no such thing as an empty space or an empty time. There is always something to see, something to hear.”
Story about the yarn: Shortly after my cousin Gayle listened to E222 that I recorded with mom where we talked about her cancer diagnosis, she was out running an errand and the only parking spot she could find was directly in front of a yarn shop. She took it as a sign and asked for something local that would be good for socks.
Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
Finished first sock!
Brainstorming
Check out this video from Ysolda on Instagram. It shows how you don’t need to start with a slip knot to start a long-tail cast on and how that can help you avoid that extra little bump of fabric that slip knot creates. Mind blown!
Millie’s birthday gifts.
Tip: Warm water and white vinegar worked perfectly to get slime off a commercial stuffed animal. It removed the thick, crusted on slime from her handmade but still left a bit of a pink color cast on them.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Kris legwarmer sock. It fits. Now that I know that, I can make second.
Knitting at local brewery turned into a conversation!
The Pigskin Party is officially over. Thank you to all of you who made it such a huge success! I will announce all of the rest of the winners on Episode 227 at the end of February!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
28 Feb 2022
Episode 227: Unicorns, Sunshine & PRIZES
00:57:39
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 227 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website- click here.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles
Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi
Pattern: Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi free crochet pattern by Anitha Domacin available on their website.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in white and various other colors. Small bit of silver metallic yarn from Stash
Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
Kim’s Christmas Stocking
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! You can find that PDF here.
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
Check out this Granny Square Chain. It’s a free Crochet pattern from Homemade@MyPlace
From the Armchair
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I met my cousin Chris’ fiancee’s grandmother who will soon be 98 years old. She told me she used to knit and crochet.
I found some lovely handkerchiefs at my Mom’s. I think some of the edges were trimmed by my grandmother and my great-aunt Rachel.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear about our trip to NH to Ski at Loon Mountain.
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
278 on Roster this Season
135 people earned 1-25 entries
66 people earned 26-50 entries
58 people got between 51-100 entries
14 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes.
Only 5 did not post any points.
Pigskin ’21 Teams & Conferences
Our Teams were Part of 2 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Wendy) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Jen)
Llama Conference won- 508,420 points
Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with 456,414 points
Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 2- Llamaste- 62,849
2nd Place goes to : Team 10- International Llamas- 50,896
In 3rd Place from the Alpaca Conference is: Team 24 Suri Longnecks- 50,721!
Congrats to all of our players and teams! Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize or one of our 10 GRAND PRIZES!
Ask Me Anything
How do you knit for Massachusetts winters (Elisa.knits)
Layers!
Worsted weight hats and shawls.
Make fingerless mitts or mittens. Purchase gloves if you prefer those and the idea of making them doesn’t sound appealing.
Which fiber did you spin with when you began to spin (kmac0107)
Corriedale. Highly recommend!
What do you want to hear “my name winning a prize? Smile- Mom updates that you are willing to share” (javajennie) & related question “How’s Mom doing? Sending good vibes her way “(bayoumamaLA)
She’s doing well.
We recorded an update video and shared on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel at the end of January. You can find that video by clicking here.
So much fun with Snapchat filters. Millie made everyone participate.
I got to see my friend Laura’s new apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
My cousin’s fiancee’s bridal shower.
Visiting with my former boss & totally losing track of time.
Quote of the Week
“You don’t have a right to the cards you believe you should have been dealt with. You have an obligation to play the hell out of the ones you’re holding and my dear one, you and I have been granted a mighty generous one.”-Cheryl Strayed
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Mar 2024
Episode 274: Fun, Sun & Chickens!
00:43:09
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 274 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
In my Travels
Events
Contest, News & Notes
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
FearLESS Socks (DK)
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway
Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have!
LFA Mystery Shortie Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
I traveled to Orlando with my friend Megg who was going there for a conference. We stayed at the Gaylord Palms, visited Epcot one evening and had a great time.
I had a couple interesting conversations with people at the pool. One lady was fascinated by my knitting and we had a rather awkward chat when I told her I was knitting a chicken.
My poolside waiter told me he lived in NYC for a couple years with grandmother was a prolific knitter and he always enjoyed watching her knit.
Celebrated Megg's birthday while we were there with a delicious dinner, room decorations and of course some handknit socks (Ravelry Project Page)
I announced the winners of the prizes I offered up for February FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.
Total raised during the event: $6,627. 67
Stitched by Jessalu is coming out with bags with the FearLESS Living Fund logo w/ a fibery twist. Check it out
Life in Focus
Health Update on Mom: March scans showed growth including in her brain. Radiation likely coming soon, but they're waiting until she's done with this round of chemo (hoping for 6 cycles)
On a Happy Note
Impromptu sleepover with Riley. We started a new secret project I'll tell you about in an upcoming episode. We also started a blanket for my cousin Joe who is expecting a baby boy in the summer. Riley chose a granny square that has a heart at the center. We each made just 1 to try it out and to make sure our squares would come out the same size. More on that in a future episode.
Riley and I went to Garret's hockey game. He got 2 goal but they ended up tying. That weekend, they did well enough to get to the next round of the playoffs.
My parents went to St. Maarten with 5 of my mom's first cousins and their spouses! She, Riley and I shared pics and videos of our daily outfits via text or Snapchat which is always fun.
Suzanne (SewRunKnit) turned me onto a new NY Times Game that's in beta: Strands.
My friend Marta messaged me to show me that her eldest son, Roc, has taken up crochet and made a little stuffed animal. Had planned to make a circle but he decided to free form it and it turned into a pear! Adorable!
Running around with Megg at Epcot like we were kids!
We even got our photo taken with Mickey. They got some candids as we were hugging him, and it looks like I'm bracing for an assault! Check out the hilarious photo.
I finished up my 4 part sock class at Staci's Stitches.
Quote of the Week
"It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
28 Feb 2023
Episode 249: Winners
00:56:10
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 249 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website.
The Yarn Sellar is hosting the annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, from 10-3 pm at the Union Bluff in York Beach Maine. Local vendors will be selling hand dyed yarns, roving, buttons, bags, and notions. $5 gets you in the door, a 15% off coupon to The Yarn Sellar and a chance to win prizes. Grab your fiber friends and make it a fun filled weekend! Make room reservation by calling 207-363-1333 and visit www.Yarnsellar.com for details.
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Cloudy Rainbow Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Yarn Cafe Creations Biscotti Yarn (85% SW Merino/15% Nylon 4 ply) in the Thestrals Colorway (gray with blips of rainbow colors
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Cast on 60 stitches and worked 1/1 rib for 14 rounds. Knit about 2 inches and then reduced to 56 stitches (decreases like a toe- done at the beginning and end of each half of the sock).
The leg is 10.25 inches before the heel flap.
My friend Jen from JLsCreativeShop on Etsy sent me new, laser cut bamboo stitch markers that I started using with this project! They each have a knitting related thing on them. Lightweight, easy to take on and off. $14.99 for set of 5. Get 10% off her shop with code BOSTONJEN.
I’ve been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon. 142 hexagons done as of now. 5 half hexagons. 3 pointy ones.
3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
Twin sized blanket is 60×80 inches. 17×22 hexis- 374.
Natalie, Knitty Natty, shared on Instagram that she had an issue with centers of her granny squares opening up in the wash. I’ve had issues with this too. My plan for this blanket is to wash all of the hexagons first before seaming together to try to weed out anything that’s not secure. I’ve also thought of a new idea for knotting mine closed because I’m holding yarn double. I’ll share a video for that soon!
Ninja Turtle Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
Riley finished the Reinpack Bag (free Ravelry Download she was knitting for my Mom, her grandmother. We bought yarn at Staci’s Stitches. The yarn is a super bulky t-shirt yarn from Hoooked Zpaghetti. She did most of the bag in a white with black polka dots and then black towards the bottom. The black yarn was definitely thinner, which wasn’t ideal but as long as Mom doesn’t use it to store small buttons or screws, it should be just fine.
I gave Riley a very brief kitchener stitch overview and she flew through the rest of it to close up this bag. I’m so proud of her.
In My Travels
I visited with Laura in Orleans over the last two weekends. We went to a movie theater to see A Man Called Otto.
We browsed Provincetown, which is a bit sleepy in the offseason. We had fun browsing a few shops.
I taught Laura how to make homemade stovetop popcorn and that nearly turned into a disaster when we thought we ruined the bottom of a Les Creuset but were able to clean/remove the stain with vinegar and baking soda.
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Tune in to hear if you’re one of our 10 Grand Prize Winners
Pigskin ’22 Wrap-up & Highlights.
1030 on Roster this Season
189 people earned 1-25 entries
45 people earned 26-50 entries
17 people got between 51-100 entries
7 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes.
4,143 entries for Finished Projects
693 entries for non-project points
2,578 posts on Instagram using #DCSPigskinParty22
Special Challenges & Bonuses
Talkgate Talk
Fistbumps and Fives
Creepy WIP challenge
Night Bright challenge
Gratitude WIP Bonus
Spread the Warmth challenge
Plus 4 Interceptions!
Our Teams were Part of 3 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Alicia) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Emily) & Sheep Conference(Commissioner: Heather)
Llama Conference won for the 2nd year in a row with over 211k points
Sheep took second this year with over 188k points
Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with over 161k points
Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 10 Wildcard WIPers with 67,452 points
2nd Place goes to: Team 7- Garter Guards- 62,789 points
In 3rd Place from the Sheep Conference is: Team 12 Sprinting Steekers- 58,213
Knit for Food Knit-a-thon 2023 Event: a Fundraiser for Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels organized by Laura Nelkin is happening on March 26, 2023
Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller’s 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details.
Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details.
If you check out JLsCreativeShop on Etsy & would like to purchase laser cut bamboo stitch markers or other items- you can use coupon code BOSTONJEN for 10% off.
The progress keeper I shared is a set of 5 for $14.99.
Conshy Connects Resale Therapy Live Sale on Thursday 3/2 at 7p Eastern on Facebook. Proceeds to benefit the FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada. Check out this YouTube Video where Mom & I talk more about this event and the Blind Center.
Ask Me Anything
Tune in to hear my answers to these questions
Aggie asked: “How are you doing?”
Cher asked: “Project progress please”
Brittany asked: “When you went to overseas I saw you had a tiny bag attached to your cross body bag for your knitting.”
Smaller bag that I attached with a carabiner was a ball holder from Pearl & Plum Etsy Shop. I believe it was a prototype, drawstring bag. Very lightweight. Not sure if they were ever sold.
Frances asked: “all about those hexies”
On a Happy Note
Mom’s friend Vikki came for a visit. Dan and I met Mom, Trish and Vikki for dinner and then they came back to our house for a drink.
I shared about Mom’s Bucket List with a Twist. Riley’s item was a massive girls party/sleepover. She had an ice cream bar and a popcorn bar, lots of food and other desserts. We played silly games and had a blast!
Dan & I bought a new washer and dryer to replace our broken one; Dan was so excited to try it out he did a ton of laundry including our sheets, which is my least favorite thing to do!
Mom successfully completed her last 3-day set of chemotherapy! Her record for keeping nausea and vomiting at bay stands! We are very excited about that. I got to visit with my cousins Susan and Joanie who drove Mom in on the second and third days because my dad had vertigo.
90 minute massage, which was even better in the midst of a very busy work week.
My time with Laura down in Orleans. Lots of talking, movies, & shopping.
Quote of the Week
Any self-prompt that reminds you to focus on flow not ebb, contributes to your greater sense of abundance. – Sarah Breathnach
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Nov 2023
Episode 267: Knit, Spin, Crochet, Gift, Repeat
00:51:12
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 267 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
Yarn: Biscotte Yarn Bis Sock in the Splash Colorway (blue self-striping yarn)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Made for David Markus as a thank you for donating to the FearLESS Living Fund in October of 2023. Finished in time for Laura to bring them back with her after her visit the weekend before Thanksgiving.
Length of foot- 8.5 inches before toe
Knit them in line at a Sample Sale Mom, Laura, Trish and I went to the Saturday morning of Laura's visit. People in line jumped in to photo bomb so that was fun.
2 Christmas Stockings
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Yarn: Big Twist- Solids in Varsity Yellow (for the sun body) and Big Twist Twinkle in Yellow for the heart/face. Leftover red fingering yarn for the mustache.
Pattern wouldn't be ideal for beginners. Doesn't tell you when/where to put in Safety Eyes before closing things up. No other major issues, but just be thoughtful. I paid less than $4 for the 4 pack of dino patterns. Worth it.
Bobble pumpkin
Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website)
Hook: I (5.5 mm)
Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Succulent Colorway
About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland.
Progress: Almost done with the first leg.
Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.
Progress Notes- 1st two sets of squares are done. I've crocheted a few from the November kit.
Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
About this project: Great Gray Owl colorway is a beautiful blend of light blues with hints of green, some small bits of a yellowy green and some neutral cream/tan hues. Buckbeak is a beautiful taupe color that pairs beautifully and I love that both colorway names are based on birds. Perfect for our Q2 challenge! Thanks again to BellaFio for sponsoring this month and encouraging us to Embrace Nature!
Pair 200 of OMG Heel for me!
Vampires of Venice Spinning
Fiber: Into the Whirled. 4oz Falkland in the Vampires of Venice colorway.
Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
Split braid in half. First half has already been spun.
Plan is to use the yarn to knit this Tweed Tie available on Ravelry.
Clown collar
Pattern: improvsing on my own. Used this free Clown Ruff pattern from Slipped Stitch Hollow as a starting point
Hook: H (5.0 mm)
Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle (Gray), Big Twist Value (Grape), Craft Smart Neon Value (neon yellow) & mystery worsted sparkle yarn in pink and white
I had a quick visit with Emelyn while they were home for Thanksgiving break. When I asked if there was anything on their Christmas wish list I should know about, they said they'd like a handmade clown collar! I love a good curveball!
Brainstorming
Millie wants a goat squishy/toy that looks like her squishmellow
I'd like to make toys for Hattie and Gabriella and another dinosaur for Zachary.
Mom picked out a skein of yarn for mitts at Rhinebeck that I'd like to knit up before Christmas.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Knitting in Passing
I shared two recent stories about meeting other knitters/talking about knitting in the wild. I met a lovely woman named Joanne at her consignment shop. She was knitting when Mom was wandering around the store so of course she struck up a conversation. Turns out, Joanne also spins too! We had a lovely chat and Mom took a photo of us.
I was recently waiting for my car to get it's oil changed when a kind.79 year old woman asked about my knitting and we ended up chatting for an hour. We talked about restoration of old Victorian in my home town where she owns a condo now.
Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! The 2023 Limited Edition Holiday prints are currently listed - hurry to order yours while they are still available!
Finish up your Q2 Project by the end of November. Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
Updates from Commentator Mary
Lots of players are talking about double-dipping in other make-alongs. A great thing about the PSP is that you can work on whatever you want so it is easy to have one project count for both PSP points and another MAL!
Hikesandbikes is planning an epic shawl project (the Genesis Shawl- check out her Ravelry Project Page) for the Yarniacs podcast’s self-indulgent make along. Find details in their Ravelry group.
Many many players are planning to participate in PSP-sponsor Imagined Landscapes’ snow matter what December mystery gnome knit along. There’s lots of chatter on the boards about what colors folks plan to use.
There’s also some talk of the Indie Gift Along which is hosted on Ravelry. Several PSP sponsors are participating so this one is particularly ripe for double-dipping!
Some players are also planning on joining Andrea Mowry’s instafriends KAL
Also on the boards there is lots of chatter about holiday movies, including Emmet Otter’s Jug Band. That is a new to me Jim Henson movie that I definitely plan to check out!
Events
THANK YOU to everyone who donated handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Check out these beautiful photos.
I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists: Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist
Advent Knitting. Check out this Ravelry Bundle put together by Knitty Natty if you need ideas for an Advent project. Thanks for including my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl- Ravelry | LoveCrafts. Don't forget you can use coupon code 10 years for 25% off any of my patterns on Ravelry.
Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024 (not sure if I'll be there yet. More to come)
Contest, News & Notes
What's going on on the YouTube Channel?
Health Update videos with Mom (Diane Lassonde). Check out Part 1 and Part 2.
My friend Laura visited from NYC the weekend before Thanksgiving! We did some consignment shopping & went out to eat with Mom on Friday. Saturday we went to a Sample sale then a couple craft fairs with Mom & Trish. We had a wuick visit to Megg and got to see my nephew Oisin.
We survived a big regulatory visit at the hospital I work at.
Thanksgiving highlights- Coloring with Gabriella, reading and making snowflakes with my cousins' kids.
Black Friday shopping. No lines
Decorating with Mom and Dad. Oisín signing Christmas carols.
Decorating our tree with Liz.
Dan is finished a huge work project. Crazy hours over holiday but it all went well.
I'll do an update on my 23 for 2023 list in the next episode but I'm feeling really good about it. If you do these kinds of lists, I'd love to crowdsource ideas in the Ravelry Group!
Quote of the Week
For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jun 2023
Episode 256: Nashville Notes
00:50:29
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 256 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Quote of the Week
Stay tuned for a special interview at the end of the episode
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Ninja Turtle Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
I purchased this as a Micro Sock set; 50g of main color + a 20g mini. I also had another LFA mini that I liked with it, so I have green and purple to choose from.
Progress: I finished the first sock at Lucky Bastard Bar in Nashville and kitchenered the toe listening to live music. I cast on the second sock.
In a Fog Mittens
Pattern: In a Fog by Allison O’Mahony ($5.50 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the designer’s website)
Needles: US 4 (3.5mm) & US 6 (4.0mm)
Yarn: MC: Spun Right Round (multi color) CC: Fibre Seed Costa Laurel worsted yarn in Colorway CL014 (gray)
Size: Medium (3 sizes available)
Progress: finished 1st mitten
Crafty Adventures
Emelyn came over after work to do a crafty project together. They decided they wanted to make a snail backpack for which we could find no ready-made tutorials online. We found instructions for round bag that we’ll modify. We went to JoAnn to purchase supplies, grabbed dinner and headed home. Eme cut the two circles (using a large bowl as a guide) and sewed swirl pattern on each piece before we ran out of time. I’m looking forward to picking it back up soon.
Knitting in Passing
My mom’s childhood friend Rosie came to Nashville with us. She was asking about my circular knitting on magic loop and we got talking about how her mother knit and taught her to knit as a kid. Her mother would make sweaters, hats, scarves and mittens.
In My Travels
My brother Jeff, my parents and I went to Nashville for CMA Fest 2023. Tune in to hear all about our trip and the incredible musicians & bands we saw.
“Would you rather love the more, and suffer the more; or love the less, and suffer the less? That is, I think, finally, the only real question.”– Julian Barnes
This episode we had a special conversation originally recorded by my friend Beverly Baptiste who co-hosts the weekly sewing podcast- Punk Frockers with her friend Jenny Hassler for their series on sewing adjacent hobbies. My friends Nicki, Karen, Ryan and Maggie and I share about the kinds of fiber crafts we enjoy, other creative outlets, whether creative people attract creative partners and whether our partners know how much we spend on craft supplies. You can find the Punk Frockers podcast on their website. You can also find this conversation on Episode 118 Knitting #PFSewingAdjacent.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
17 Nov 2022
Episode 243: Grateful
00:41:33
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 243 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:
Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website)
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black & Bumblebee Acres Farm Squishy Sock in the Rainbow Room Colorway
Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches.
I knit the Adult Medium and switched to a 16" cord once I had the full number of stitches. I knit 10 inches of black before starting in with the rainbow stripes.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Portal Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged.
I've losing mojo on this so it will be going into hibernation until after Christmas.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Get ready for our December Hat Interception hosted by Cori Eichelberger (irocknits) & Monique Leonard (Windswept Knits). Check out irocknits patterns on Ravelry & Windswept Monique’s patterns on Ravelry. Find all of the Challenge details in this Google Doc-
Announcement of the Gratitude WIP Bonus: finish up WIPs started 9/22/22 or earlier (with a finish date of 11/24-12/31/22) and you can earn some bonus points. Check out all of the details & rules in this Doc- Gratitude WIP Bonus
Contest, News & Notes
There will be no second podcast episode in November.
Last time I shared that my Mom's lung cancer has returned. We've since learned that the cancer has transitioned to small cell lung cancer which is more aggressive and will require more aggressive chemo. Keep those thoughts & prayers coming.
“We may, by fixing our attention almost fiercely on the facts actually before us, force them to turn into adventures; force them to give up their meaning and fulfill their mysterious purpose.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
14 Oct 2022
Episode 241: Rhinebeck Sweater
00:45:45
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 241 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes with photos on my website by clicking here.
Needles: US 10 for the body. US 8 for the neck ribbing. US 9 for the bottom hem and non-button band ribbing sections.
Yarns Used: Goosey Fibers, Sunsoaked Yarns, Hypnotic Yarn, Ross Farm (Henrietta), McKnits, Teenie Button Studio, Legacy Fiber Artz ,Spitfire & Fury DK+ my own handspun+ others!
Modifications in the sleeves- after the first 3 decreases, I changed to doing decreases every other round until I got to the designated stitch count. Finished in the 3rd color stripe.
If you’re weary of marling, choose colors that are similar in value. Mixing a white with a dark color like black, dark purple or maroon is going to be a very stark contrast. I don’t always love that.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Woolens & Nosh Socks
Yarn: Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, taupe, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
Yarn from Woolens & Nosh- Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs
Brainstorming
Christmas ideas- like these cute crocheted pieces that attach to a large wooden ring. You put them over the bar on the oven or dishwasher and then you can hang a dishtowel from the wooden ring. Here’s a Pinterest link for a crochet option.
Aila wants a fox.
Oisin wants an alien.
Hattie wants a unicorn because she thinks hers was lost. TBD.
From the Armchair
The Girl Next Door Podcast: I thoroughly enjoyed their annual Fall Extravaganza episodeand this year was no exception.
I didn’t especially enjoy the Serial Podcast recent update about Adnan Syed’s case but I was relieved to hear that Syed was officially ruled out as a suspect in the murder of Hae Min Lee in 1999 (though he served 23 years in prison)
Congrats to Syed & and his family and especially his fierce friend and advocate Rabia Chaudry. Check out this video on Rabia’s Instagram Feed for more details.
Listen to Season 1 of Undisclosed if you want more about this case (especially if you only ever listed to Serial).
Highlights- getting to see Cheryl & Jess from Hypnotic Yarn. Getting to see (and purchase) Pigskin sponsor Mcknits Yarn in person at Plymouth Harbor Knits
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc.
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Important Updates in this Episode
Check out October’s Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need.
Will announce first of the Participation prizes in the next episode!
Our well is at a normal level again! Cooking & doing laundry feels like a privilege when you haven’t been able to do it for months.
We have some Sneaky Pumpkins growing near our deck (where last year’s pumpkins must have met their demise!)
Apple Picking- my favorite day of the year
Kids working around the yard with Dan. Getting firewood chopped and stacked. They moved our back steps to get ready for new railings that we’re hiring a contractor to install.
My Dad turned 70! We had a super fun party for him at my parents’ house. I had a nasty cold which was a bummer for me, but otherwise it was great.
Merry Everything & Happy Always Yarn Swap is open for sign ups. Thanks to those who knew I wanted to sign up and made sure I got in there. Swap Partners will be assigned on 10/16 so get into the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group ASAP if you want to join.
24 mini skeins/balls of 5-7 grams each (Fingering/Sock Yarn)
I got self striping from Desert Vista Dyeworks yarn in the mail + my October Yarnable Subscription Box. Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Video on my YouTube Channel.
Quote of the Week
To improve the golden moment of opportunity, and catch the good that is within our reach, is the great art of life.–SAMUEL JOHNSON
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jan 2023
Episode 246: Cleaning off the Needles
00:45:16
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 246 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Perry’s Socks
Yarn: Patons Kroy FX
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.Knitting in Passing
One of my omg sock students Karen reached out via email with a photo of the 8 pairs of socks she knit and gifted for Christmas after taking my class at the beginning of the year!!
Suzanne, SewRunKnit, sent chemo caps for Mom. She chose one and donated the others to the MGH Cancer Center; the next day they were gone.
KAL News
Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22
Spread the Warmth Challenge; runs through the end of the Pigskin Party. Get details in this Google doc or this Ravelry Thread.
Life in Focus
I enjoy doing a look back at the end of each year. You can see the video I made about Reviewing My Year/Goal Setting in this video on my YouTube Channel.
Knitting/Crochet/Spinning
70 Knitting/Crochet Finished Projects in 2022
41 knitting
29 crochet
53 of 70 are gifts
Spinning- 4 finished projects. 872 meters of yarn.
Released 0 new patterns but completed the writing and prototype for 2 designs- a shawl & cowl
Sagamore Flyover Hat was my best seller this year.
Tune in to hear a recap of my Word of the Year & Goals for 2022. We’ll talk more about plans and goals in the next episode.
On a Happy Note
Going to my cousin Amanda’s book party in Plymouth and out to dinner after with family and friends. Musical bingo!
105 people at my parents’ Open House on January 7th, including my friend Laura who came in from NYC for the weekend.
Starting process to kick off the Fearless Living Fund in my mom’s name that will benefit blind population through the Blind Center of Nevada. Friends and family surprised Mom with over $1500 in initial donations. Mom’s friend Katy shaved her head in solidarity (check out the YouTube video here) and is raising money.
Donate to the FearLESS Living Fund by sending a Venmo payment to: @FearlessLivingFund -or- a Zelle payment to: lvpinkpanther@cox.net
While my aunt’s passing has been incredibly difficult, there is still a happy note there in that many of us were able to go visit the Sunday before she passed. Dan and I picked up my grandmother and my parents met us at my cousin’s house armed with leftover trays of food from the Open House. Earlier in the day I was able to help transfer Florence into the guest room bed while Dan and some of the guys disassembled her bed to ready her room for a hospital bed. Then we took turns visiting with her, saying our goodbyes, eating dinner and being together. very time the door to her bedroom opened she smiled and said “I love that sound!” and then “I want you to keep doing that. Even after.” I reminded her its not like we could stop it. It was a hard day but made easier being all together. She passed on Wednesday.
Came home that day to flowers and a beautiful from card that in my daze, I never even saw until he came home and pointed them out!
Mom made it through another 3 day round of Chemo. 2 more to go (one in late January & one in February)
Getting back into yoga.
Date night with Dan. We hit the local brewery and then onto the tavern for dinner. Just what we needed.
Sleeping in!
Quote of the Week
It is amateurs who have one big bright beautiful idea that they can never abandon. Professionals know that they have to produce theory after theory before they are likely to hit the jackpot.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Mar 2022
Episode 229: 10 Years Later!
00:49:03
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 229 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, check out my website.
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Blue Kamakaze Socks
Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway.
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
March 11. 2022 was our 10 year podcast anniversary! THANK YOU to everyone who has listened, told a friend, left a review, purchased a pattern, joined my Patreon group, participated in a KAL. THANK YOU! I’m so appreciative.
Crafty Adventures
I helped Millie (age 10) with a craft kit: Mini Garden Unicorn- Amazon Affiliate Link
Knitting in Passing
I was gifted yarn from Megg in Ireland: Hedgehog Fibres– Sock Yarn (90% Merino, 10% nylon) in the Crush colorway. Pinks from light to magenta with yellows, oranges and royal blues.
My niece Millie received yarn from the nurse at her school whose daughter had taken up knitting and then given it up.
I ordered needles for Millie and cast on a cowl she wants to knit with the skein of yarn from A Hundred Ravens at Russell’s Garden Center Farm Fiber Days at the beginning of March.
KAL News
Splash Pad Party ’22 Call for Sponsors!
Sponsor Call: Deadline 4/25/22
Want to sign up (after you read the details)? Please fill out this Google Form
Poet May Sarton on the importance of rest: “I always forget how important the empty days are, how important it may be sometimes not to expect to produce anything, even a few lines in a journal. A day when one has not pushed oneself to the limit seems a damaged, damaging day, a sinful day. Not so! The most valuable thing one can do for the psyche, occasionally, is to let it rest, wander, live in the changing light of a room.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
16 Nov 2023
Episode 266: Head to Toe
00:59:18
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 266 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
Notes- This is the 14th time I've knit this pattern. Yarn was a sample from collab with Cait for my Stay Out of the Forest Hat which you can find on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.
I blocked & sewed the buttons on Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater
Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)
Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body
I added belt loops to Mom's Wave of Change Cardigan- Ravelry Project Page.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Liz's Socks
Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Fiber Festival of New England
Ran into Jean (Mazzy Girl), Amy (CapeNeddickknitter), Michelle- chellescrips, Jen, Carlos, Aurora & Zelda.
Jess & Roger and team from Stitched by Jessalu. Donated a percentage of their sales to our FearLESS Living Fund. Donation for $350 came through this week and we are so grateful. If any other sponsors would like to do a fundraiser like this in the future, let us know! We'd love to help promote it.
Check out our video to see the Eastern States Exposition Center, see what we bought and all of the fun eye candy!
Tune in to hear if you won an October Participation Prize.
I also announced the winners of our Announce Q1 Challenge winners- hosted by Paper Daisy Creations.
Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
I gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge. Check out the Waymaker Cowl by Amanda Massingill (Mandi's Makings). Free knitting pattern available on Ravelry.
WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
I announced October Participation Prize Winners, Quarter 1 Challenge Winners & gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge hosted by Mandi's Makings. Check out The Waymaker Cowl on Ravelry.
Update from Commissioners:
There is lots of excitement about the Q2 challenge.
Most of the people who have finished have completed hats. If you poke around the scoreboard and the chat threads you’ll see so many stunning examples. For example, quite a few folks have finished patterns from the knitting the National parks book.
Juliepoolie71 made the Crater Lakes hat. Ravelry Project Page.
Esalaza made the Hawai’i Volcanoes Beanie. Ravelry Project Page.
Knitternicole made the Theodore Roosevelt Beanie. Ravelry Project Page.
But you don’t have to knit a hat for this challenge. Hollyelyse finished a whole colorwork sweater for the challenge (in 10 days!) Check out the Ravelry Project Page.
You don’t even have to knit for this challenge. You can crochet or spin too. For example:
Sarahsyarn86 is crocheting adorable granny squares that have daisies in the center. Check out the Ravelry Project Page.
Katanorand is working on a spinning project using fiber in the colorway strawberry fields. Check out this Ravelry Post.
Events
My cousin Linda's friend is looking for warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!
I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists: Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist
In this video I show you how to use Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting to create really fun and vibrant scrappy socks without having to weave in a million ends!
Coming soon- life/health updates recorded with Mom.
On a Happy Note
For Halloween, Mom & I reprised our Sanderson sister roles. I trick or treated with Hattie for a little while then hung out by the fire with family and friends.
Megg & I bought a 5 pack of tickets for shows at the Boston Opera House this season. Our first show was November 1st, Frozen. We were able to add on two tickets and bring Millie and Hattie with us. We had an absolutely magical night!
On the Saturday while Mom & I were at New England Fiber Festival, Riley was texting me. She did her first hexi all on her own! Then a couple more! When she ran out of minis, she moved onto her Riley Rose Cowl and sent a photo of her knitting and watching Gilmore Girls. Be still my heart!
Watching Gabriella & Zachary for the afternoon.
Finally making a dent in my Christmas shopping. My goal the last couple years has been to be completely finished before December 1 so I can really enjoy December. Sometimes I'm better at that than other years, but I'm going to really try hard to get that done by my deadline this year.
One of my cousin Lauren's friends from Amsterdam gifted me a pack of Stroopwafels which I enjoyed with coffee in my new chicken mug from NE Fiber Fest!
We went to Flight Club in Seaport District of Boston for Conor's 35th Birthday- just after I found out he and Carly are expecting their first baby in June (right around my. birthday)!
Quote of the Week
Bad luck in small doses can cast a glittering light on the rest of life.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
31 Oct 2021
Episode 219: Disney!
00:46:34
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 219 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Scroll down for links.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jul 2020
Episode 188: Home Sweet Home
00:55:31
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 188 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/188
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Note- most links below link to Ravelry pages. If Ravelry is not accessible to you right now, please email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I’m happy to find you another accessible link or share more information
I shared stories about Riley and Millie using my spinning wheel for the first time and about Hattie’s first time asking to knit with me (at age 2 1/2)
In My Travels
Dan and I were lucky to get to spend a little over 2 weeks at my cousin’s lake house in New Hampshire. We did a lot of kayaking including a trip to the nearby Saco river with my family. I talked about how I take my good habits with me on vacation and some of the highlights of our trip.
Because inquiring minds want to know- YES, the Pigskin Party still going ahead as scheduled even if the NFL Football season is altered or canceled. We’ve been good at Virtual parties for years. This will be our 7th annual Pigskin Party. I hope you’ll consider joining us. Official dates: September 10, 2020 through February 8, 2021.
Do you want to sponsor? Check out this page on my website and fill out the Google Form. Already signed up? I’ll reach out soon to confirm your details.
Events
Stash Dash, hosted by the Knit Girllls, runs May 22- August 22, 2020. Check out the Chat Thread & the Rules in the Knit Girllls Podcast group
I am extremely disappointed in the Ravelry response to recent user issues with their new redesign.
I sell my patterns on Ravelry but want them to be accessible to everyone so you can now find my self-published patterns on LoveCrafts.
Life in Focus
This week’s segment focuses on #PlasticfreeJuly: I talked about what I kept from last year, how I’m giving myself grace this year during the pandemic and I give some product recommendations.
Gingerbread Man, Nutcracker, Elf Doll, Mouse, Bear, Angel, Cat with a Santa hat, Reindeer. Each of them are absolutely adorable! Crochet patterns in Spanish and English
Garret asked for a crocheted wig. I’ll be using the Afro Hair Wig by Weiyan Huang as a guide. Ravelry Link to Pattern here.
Knitting in Passing
Chatting with Riley about knitting on Zoom and seeing how her projects are coming!
KAL News
Quarterly Quests!
Get all of the details here. Quarter 4: October 1- December 31, 2020: Slay The Stash. Of course we still want you to slay your stash so we added it to the very end. Use up any skein purchased prior to 2020 all the way down to the last 3 yards. Again, older than 5 years (as of the start of 2020) gains you an extra entry.
End Zone Dance– come celebrate each other’s finished projects (this is not where you enter your FOs for points in the 2020 season. See Rules for details)
Extra Point Challenge: Give yourself and your team 100 points for each small project (min 25 yards: less than 100 yards) you complete. To be eligible for extra points, a project must be started no earlier than 11/1/20 and completed no later than 12/25/20. Limit 5 projects per player (500 total bonus points). Check out the details on my website or on Ravelry.
Festive Sock Along with Amy Florence of Stranded Podcast. Stay tuned to her podcast Ravelry Group for details. October 1- December 1, 2020. #Festivesockalong2020
Beth MDQuilter (Instagram) and Abigail Covert_Knits (Instagram) teaming up for gilmorealong2020. Started 9/22.
The Indie Giftalong is running! Check out their Ravelry Group.The Indie Design Gift-A-Long is a 5+ week long KAL/CAL of holiday gifts made from patterns designed by a rather extensive list of independent designers. From November 24th, 2020 at 8:00 pm US EST to December 31, 2020 at midnight US EST there will be fun games, contests, and 8 KAL/CALs that will help you get your holiday knitting and crocheting done with companionship and fun! Please use #giftalong2020 and #GAL2020
On a Happy Note
My daily Theragun use is making a noticeable difference.
I decorated the house for Christmas the weekend before Thanksgiving- except for the tree.
Emelyn came home from school! Hugs! So rare these days.
Thanksgiving weekend. Dan and I spent the day together. PJs day (and putting up the tree).
I finally put up the photos I had printed on Wood Panels from Walgreens months ago.
Impromptu Christmas shopping with Mom!
I did some Christmas shopping at Savers. Video coming soon to my YouTube Channel on how I thrift.
Put tree in diningroom bc having windows done.
Riley coming for a sleepover!
Quote of the Week
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” – G.K. Chesterton
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 250 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbin
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
In my Travels
KAL News
Events
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: The Yarn Sellar and be sure to check out their annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, 10-3 pm at the Union Bluff in York Beach,Maine.
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Hattie's Ice Cream
Pattern: Ice Cream Cone by Shannon Holding. Free Crochet Pattern available on the LoopholeFox website & on Ravelry
Hook: C (2.75)
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Cotton Candy (pink), Blush (pink), White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cone)
2 scoops of ice cream (instructions include option for 3 scoops).
1st scoop is pink, 2nd scoop is white. Pink and purple sprinkles
I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon.
3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300
Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374.
Over 160 full hexagons done now.
I washed all of my finished hexis (that already had ends woven in), in the washing machine on delicate inside a lingerie bag. The lingerie bag is important because with small pieces, you can lose pieces into your machine and cause problems.
Results:
5 of them came apart at the join on the final round.
No bleeding or fading.
No shrinking.
I'm glad I did this so I could get the bad ones out of the mix before I seam them.
Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
Ninja Turtle Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
I finished my January-June Covid Photo Book/Scrapbook that I made in Shutterfly and ordered it!
I started working on second half of the year. I have notes about each day of the year that I'm mostly copying/pasting into Shutterfly and adding photos from Google Photos which makes it easier. So grateful I journaled during 2020 as it will likely end up being one of the wildest year of our lives.
Blue Heron Farm set-up table for people to learn Needle Felting. Millie made a butterfly and then a bunny. We purchased a needle felting kit from them. Later Mom found cookie cutters.
Millie got lots of snuggle time with 2 French Angora Rabbits that she wants to convince her dad to adopt. Thank you, Jessica.
I purchased two batts of Shetland from Wild Air Farm in Bolton, MA.
Our marled variegated 2 ply yarn. Hand-dyed in small limited-edition batches. Made with 100% American wool.
KAL News
I emailed all Grand Prize Winners and the sponsors who donated their prizes. Check your email if you haven't already.
Splash Pad preliminary prep underway
Events
Knit for Food Knit-a-thon 2023 Event: a Fundraiser for Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels organized by Laura Nelkin is happening on March 26, 2023
Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller's 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details.
Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details.
Met up with my friend Gary from college for coffee while he was in Boston.
Hattie's first ever birthday sleepover for her 5th Birthday. I picked her up and then we picked up Millie, at Hattie's request. We had a low key night at home, and went to the Children's Museum the next morning. Hattie was overtired, so we drove her home and then Millie and I met up with my parents to head back into Boston for Riley's dance competition. Mom, Dad, Jeff, Millie, Garret and I all went to an early dinner between her performances.
Monday night at a local Irish pub listening to live music for Megg's birthday.
Last Saturday, Megg dropped off Oisín to work with Dan, and we all had breakfast before Megg and I went off for a hike. We got back to the car just as the rain started.
Millie's Bucket List with a Twist item was to ride horses with Grammy in the snow. It nearly snowed on Saturday May 11, but it was too warm. Thankfully, the rain stopped while we were inside the barn at Nancy & Roger's house, meeting the animals. Our friend Terri is friends with Nancy and Roger who kindly and enthusiastically agreed to help make Millie check off her bucket list item. We met all of the animals, most of whom were rescued. They have a very silly goat, some miniature horses (Goliath, Delilah & Princess Buttercup), 2 Gypsy Vanners (Zoe & her mother Dulcie) and another large horse, Scooter. Mom and I each rode Zoe and Millie rode Dulcie.
Garret's 13th birthday sleepover. We went to Altitude to jump on the trampolines, to Panera for dinner and then he taught me how to edit videos using the CapCut app.
Quote of the Week
In our concern for others, we worry less about ourselves. When we worry less about ourselves an experience of our own suffering is less intense.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Aug 2023
Episode 260: Things are Getting Wild
00:42:32
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 260 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos check out my website.
I originally finished in June 2022 but it was too short. I ripped out the bottom section and changed from 1 round of each color to 2 rounds each on the bottom trip and added 2 more colors (purple and pink)
I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post
4 rounds per hexagon.
Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.
Progress as of 8/14- 58 x70 inches (14x20 hexis)
My goal is for it to be twin blanket size which is 60x80 inches. I would need to add 2 more rows to the length= 28 hexis to make, wash and seam. Plus add the border.
My Little Unicorn Socks
Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
From Amazon, I ordered Black Buckles to allow for adjusting the length of the strap.
My friend Liz was walking around sightseeing on a recent trip to St. Louis and mentioned she may need a water bottle holder like the one I made for Hattie (Ravelry Project Page).
Wild Air Farm Spinning
I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens)
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Brainstorming
I'd like to crochet a pocket to put between the mattress and the platform part of our bed. I sleep with my heating pad nearly every night and depending on how I move, and especially when I get out of bed, the controller for the heating pad clangs loudly against the wooden drawers and metal drawer pulls of the platform bed. I'd like to hold several strands together and make a large piece of fabric with a pocket in it, to hold the controller and muffle the sound. I need to go through my stash to see what I can find. I will likely crochet it for the sake of time and I think it will also yield a denser fabric that will work well without hurting my hands too much.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
KAL News
Tune in to hear if you won a prize in the Splash Pad Party. I will email all winners within a week of this recording.
The 10th Annual Pigskin Party is Coming SOON! The event will run from Thursday September 7, 2023 through Monday February 12, 2024
Official hashtag- #DCSPigskinParty23 (feel free to start using it while you prep for the KAL)
Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos (ordered 8/9 from Walgreens- 8x10 for $12!)
Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August done)
Knit myself a pair of mittens
On a Happy Note
Dan and I went to a local brewery on a Sunday afternoon and came home to a black bear in our yard!
Barbie Movie- purchased a new pink top and heels to wear with floral pants I bought. Stephanie deemed me Resort Barbie!
Gabriella's 3rd birthday. Dan and I had so much fun playing with playdough with them in the backyard.
Mom's friends at List Perfectly treated us to box seats at a Red Sox at Fenway. The game itself was terrible- they lost 13-1 and put in the short stop as pitcher in the top of the 9th, but we had so much fun we didn't care. The box was decked out with every kind of delicious beverage you could want, pizza, lobster rolls, hot dogs, pretzels and more... and they even have a ice cream sundae cart come around!
2 nights of Tock and ice cream at the pool. The first night Liz and I taught Stephanie and Kris how to play. The second night, Mom, Riley and I played.
Emelie's birthday party
Kayaking for the first time this season; it was cut a bit short by a storm that was threatening. Not sure if would have ever actually come where we were, but it wasn't worth the risk.
Quote of the Week
No matter how mundane some action might appear, keep at it long enough and it becomes a contemplative, even meditative act.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
14 Apr 2023
Episode 252: Socks, Chevrons & Gardens
00:39:28
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 252 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
This week’s segments included:
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Brainstorming
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Winter Mint Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Winter Mint Colorway (Yarnable December 2022)
This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
Progress: 2 strips finished. 2 more started. I am going to run out of Knit Picks Brava White yarn.
I did finish a top down elongated triangular shawl that was a design idea. I think I like it, but waiting for it to come off the blocking mats for final decisions.
Brainstorming
I’m debating what to make for my nephew Zachary’s 1st birthday in May. This is a strong contender: Baby Snuggler by Cheryl of Crochet 365 Knit Too. Crochet pattern available for $4.49 on Ravelry or free on the Crochet 365 Knit Too Website or ad-free from Cheryl’s website here.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
Riley wore her Everyday Cables Cardigan to Easter this year. I knit this very bulky sweater for her for Christmas 2021 (From Dec 10-24th!). You can check out my Ravelry Project Page here.
Knitting in Passing
Eme sleepover We played Cube Escape Collection. We played The Mill which is like an electronic version of an escape game where you have to go around the room to find clues and figure out how to solve a puzzle. Grandmother knit her own hair (which we had to spin on a castle style spinning wheel) to make a pot holder so we could get hot duck out of oven.
We messaged with Z, Emelyn’s former roommate, and sending videos to try to help with their ssk issues.
I had so much fun teaching Eme to crochet. I bought them some hooks and yarn to keep going.
KAL News
Splash Pad Party starts on Friday May 26th.
Save the date for our virtual kick off events on Friday & Saturday May 26-27th. More details to come.
Call for Sponsors went out. You can find information on my website.
Events
Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details.
While it’s been difficult, I’m really enjoying taking small group workout classes at a new to me gym nearby.
On a Happy Note
Hiking with Megg and alone.
Seeing The Secret Garden musical at The Company Theatre.
Eme & Kris’ birthday dinner.
Watching Love is Blind on Netflix and talking about it with Laura. It’s such a fun way to connect w/ a friend.
Easter at my parents’ house.
Warmer, longer days.
My houseplants. I’ve recently divided up some more of my plants. Getting ready to fertilize them. They are bringing me so much joy, and having kept them alive (many for well over a year now), I’m getting confidence to try a few new plants. Maybe soon!
Quote of the Week“
The events of your past are fixed. The meaning of your past is not. The influence of every experience in your life is determined by the meaning you assign to it. Assign a more useful meaning to your past and it becomes easier to take a more useful action in the present.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Sep 2022
Episode 239: Party People!
00:44:28
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 239 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show notes with photos check out my website.
Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link
Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread
Tip from Sarah- Imagined Landscapes- on Watching or Ignoring Team Threads:
You can set Ravelry Threads to watch or ignore.
Watching a thread means it will pop up to the highest point under the stickied threads if there‘s a new post.
Ignoring a thread means you never see it again – I use it to clear up teams I‘m not on so there‘s less visual clutter for my PSP.
Check out this page on Ravelry for instructions on how to Ignore a Thread.
Fist Bumps & Fives Challenge– check out this link for details. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You’ll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter for points between 9/23-9/30.
Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2. Check out their Event Website for details. Facebook Page available here. Pro Shop Sponsor Anne Beady will be at Salt Yarn Studio on Thursday 9/29 with her beautiful bags & design samples!
Dan and I did a big cellar clean-out over Labor Day weekend.
We enjoyed a big pool day (Oisin and Eme practiced their diving, Hattie practiced her swimming with Auntie Di) over Labor Day Weekend. We followed that with a clam bake, a belated birthday celebration for Oisin who turned 14 in June (while still in Ireland).
Oisín working with Dan in the yard again this fall. They uncovered an impromptu pumpkin patch that sprung up next to our deck!
We had our first fire of the fall. Pizza and beer after the boys were done working. Hattie (age 4) asked “are you gonna knit with me?” I asked if she was going to knit with ME! And she did.
We enjoyed our last pool day and family trip to Hornstra for ice cream!
Quote of the WeekAt some point in life the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint or even remember it. It is enough.–TONI MORRISONMusic -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/——Thank you for tuning in.Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I’d greatly appreciate it.I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I’d love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I’m up to between episodes.Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube ChannelEmail me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website:Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using#DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Updates for this episode:
December Interception Winner: Congrats to sarahkatsq for Post #10. Thanks to Natalie for hosting the Cozy Up Interception
No Interception in January
Monthly Scavenger Hunt (January clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
KAL ends on February 14, 2022
Life in Focus
Word of the Year: Pause
Pause: take a time out. Breathe. Relax. Be present.
Pause: put obligations that you may no otherwise, on hold and reprioritize.
Pause: savor the moment. Cherish it. Freeze time if only for a second.
Pause: I want the cancer to pause. To stop, if only for awhile, to give us some more time. I know it won’t be forever but I am putting energy into this pause.
Pause: a period or time free from engagement
Pause: take a breather
Pause: take five
Pause- and connect. connect my feelings. connect with others.
Primary Goals:
Move your body 4 days a week. Any movement for 15 minutes or more counts.
Say Yes to time spent with Mom. Call often. Visit once a week, more if possible. Say yes to things that involve her unless it’s interferes with my own mental health or need for rest.
Journal about each day of this year. I can write about things a day or two later if need be, but I do want to keep a record. I do want to pause and reflect on things are they happen this year.
22 for 2022List
Check out this episode of Happier with Gretchen Rubin to hear more about this project.
Go Skiing (from 2021)
Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)
Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
Read 22 novels
Go to an art museum
Buy something a little extravagant
Meet with financial planner about new investments.
Do at least 1 yoga video per month
Kayak at one new place
Create the collage wall in my studio
Visit Eme at school
Try out the new trail on Grove Street
2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
Purge & declutter the secretary
Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
Take a vacation/staycation before August
Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings
Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed
Hire a professional photographer for family photos
Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
Go Apple Picking
Hang a calendar in the diningroom
On a Happy Note
Quiet New Year’s Eve at home, with Covid all around us. Homemade popcorn, cold craft beer, and Lupin on Netflix.
I got a text from my cousin Joanie. Her mom, my Aunt Florence has been struggling to make pom poms for the hats she’s been knitting. I showed her early in December how to use the Clover pom pom maker I bought her, but she was still a bit stuck. Joanie’s daughters helped her make the pom poms! They came out great! Love a good family project.
January 2: Nora Ephron Day. Started with You’ve Got Mail, found a Nora Ephron documentary Everything is Copy on HBO Max, then proceeded to watch Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally.
Getting silly videos of my niece Hattie in Ireland
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
28 Feb 2021
Episode 203: Flattering Knits & Tapping Horses
00:44:38
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 203 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes including photos visit my website: www.downcellarstudio.com/203
Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Soft Taupe Colorway (body). Mystery brown acrylic worsted weight yarn for hooves, tail, mane. Mystery cream acrylic for nose & ears.
Pattern: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak ($8 knitting pattern)- pattern also available on PayHip
Needle: US 11 (8.0 mm)
Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway. Retails for $8.50 per ball. (Yarn provided free of charge for me to review)
Finished sweater used 472 grams/ 519 meters, 567 yards.
Tune in to hear my thoughts on how we see ourselves and decide what’s flattering or not. Remember a photo is just one angle of you. Everyone in real life sees you as a dynamic moving person, not just one static image. See examples of what I’d consider good/bad or flattering/unflattering photos below. Bottom line: I do love the sweater and have worn it several times already! Really enjoyed knitting with this Kraemer Yarn and can definitely see myself using it again for future projects.
Juju Fruit Headband
Yarn: Kraemer Yarns Mauch Chunky in the Juju Fruit Colorway
Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm)
Pattern: new design. Release TBD.
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Wound Up Fiber Arts 3 Ply Spin
Fiber: Wound Up Fiber Arts Corriedale, 100 grams. Colorway 1: Prim (finished 1/12). Colorway 2: Fall Vibes finished 2/2. Colorway 3
No color management. Going to add other 2 braids. 3 ply.
15 min per day in Feb
I have about 1/4 of the third braid, Honey Pie, left to go.
Fifties Stripes Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Yarn: Patrons Kroy Stripes in the Fifities Stripes Colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Brainstorming
Garret asked for a dog that looks like their French Bulldog, Yadi, for his birthday. I purchased a pattern from BlackBird Pattern on Etsy. $8.49 Contains patterns for both a Frenchie and a Pug. Most realistic of all the patterns I could find on Ravelry and Etsy.
Riley taught me how to make Disney ears using a headband, cardboard shapes for the ears, polyfill, material, ribbons and a glue gun. No sewing required. We filmed a video that will be up on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel soon.
KAL News
Pigskin Party wrapped up; winners announced in Episode 202. If you won a prize and haven’t already reached out already please get in touch before March 10th.
Check out friend of pod, Mara Smith is teaching a class on Saturday March 21 12:30p-1:30p. Lecture: Sit Right and Knit All Night: How Proper Ergonomics Can Increase Productivity
Carolina FiberFest (virtual): March 11-14. . Workshops March 11-14, with vendors, free talks and demonstrations on the 12-14th.
Contest, News & Notes
Let’s welcome Jen from the Commuter Knitter Podcast back to the Podcasting world! She uploaded a new episode for the first time after 4 years. Great episode, fun audio from her 4 year old twins at the end. Find Jen on Instagram as NDJen04
Weekend Crafty Vlog– February 14th & 15th : You’ll get weekend knitting, crochet and spinning. You’ll also see some yoga, snowy walks in the woods, hear an update on my experience with my 2nd Covid Vaccine, and join me (and the fam) for thrifting adventures.
Thanks for getting me over 1,000 subscribers! I really appreciate your support.
Life in Focus
Update: 21 for 2021 List- Completed:
#4- Complete Book 2 for my 2018 Album
#10- Hit 1,000 subscribers on YouTube
#11- Participate in the February Challenge on Instagram
#12- Read/listen to 10 books
#19- Submit a pattern to at least 1 publication
Ask Me Anything
Limestone knits asked on IG- How to choose sweater patterns that integrate well with your existing wardrobe
What colors do you wear? What colors do you like up near your face? Do you like stripes? Patterns?
What type of sweater do you usually wear? Pullovers? Cardigans? Baggy/fitted?
When you wear sweaters what are you doing and what else are you wearing? Do you only ever wear sweaters out of the house, never at home? Do you want your sweater to pair with jeans? Leggings?
Are you warm blooded or cold blooded?
On a Happy Note
Thrifting with Mom, Riley and Millie over the holiday weekend. So fun!
Walking in the snow with Hattie and Megg last Saturday.
Visiting with Millie outside, safely and sitting fireside on her birthday. Getting to see Garret skate in the ice rink my brother made in the backyard.
My BFF came for a socially distant visit- bringing fresh, local mint chip ice cream and flowers.
New “bowl” in my food rotation: Black Bean Cowboy burger from Trader Joe’s, a little bit of quinoa, whatever roasted veggies are in the fridge, a little cheese and BBQ sauce.
Quote of the Week
You make mistakes, mistakes don’t make you”― Maxwell Maltz
Thank you for tuning in!
Please note: book links are all Amazon Affiliate Links. If you make a purchase (or anything else) after clicking through that link, I’ll get a small percentage. It doesn’t cost you any extra. It’s a great way to support the podcast, so thanks in advance for considering purchasing through these links.
Inspiration- Ali (starryeyesali) posted a watermelon bowl she made with leftover yarn on Instagram
Small Jar cozy (16 oz wide mouth Mason jars). All sc (like the original ball band pattern). 7 rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green, 9 rounds of red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
Large Jar cozy (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)- following Ball Band with a Twist instructions. 6 rounds of bottom section in Jade. 2 rounds of light green and the rest in Red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
Large Jar cozy #2 (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)- rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green, rest was done in red. Black "seeds" sewn in later.
2 skeins of finished yarn with Fluffypuf & Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works
Skein 1- 66g. 80.97 yards or 74.04 meters
Skein 2= 66g. 79.44 yards or 72.64 meters
Total Meters= 146.68
I still had singles left of the Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks fiber, so I plied that with some mystery purple singles.
Skein 3: 28g. 54.44 yards or 49.78 meters
Meters for Stash Dash- 49.78 x 4= 199.12
Total Meters for Stash Dash for all 3 skeins = 795.84
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I’ve also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!
Progress: I have 3 of the 4 front/back panels I need for the frist 2 done. The forth is onto the leg. I am going to crochet up 2 more and then iron them, and start seaming them.
Wide, oversized crochet top that I completely improvised on the go. Thought I'd do all granny squares but didn't think I'd have enough yarn.
Originally finished in June 2022, but it was too short and I only wore it once.
Had hdc rows in rainbow colors at the bottom. Ripped all of that back and instead of doing 1 round of each color, I did 2. Extending beyond blue to include purple and pink.
My Little Unicorn Socks
Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Some Years Later
Mom sent 2 socks to be repaired. Her Knit Picks Felici Zen Socks had a hole in the foot. It was easy to repair with a bit of yarn. I washed them and they're ready to give back. I only finished these in May 2022, right before Mother's Day so these haven't held up very well. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.
I also did a blanket repair on a knitted blanket a friend's mother asked me to fix. I was assuming it was crochet, so the fact that it was knitted was a surprise. The section that was torn was part of a very long strip of knitting that was knit on the bias, so it was a little tricky but it was in garter stitch and I did a good job of pulling the stitches back up. Its not 100% invisible, but I'm happy with it. I have it washed and ready to return.
Crafty Adventures
Resin adventures with Gayle & Meagan for their Bucket List with a Twist. They made us aprons to wear while working that Bucket List with a Twist!
Mom's July MRI & CT Scans show that the cancer has not grown/changed! Great news!
Ask Me Anything
Tune in to hear my answers to these questions:
AnnahB wants to know how many UFOs I have. (12 somewhat active + hibernations)
MaysMomNH- How your Mom is doing.
Elisa.Knits- How you pick yarn for sweaters and cardis please.
Nali_Knits- what motivates you to keep knitting/podcasting after so many years?
KGZKnits- Can we watch instead?
Red-Christina- trying to knit men's cardigan for my grandpa- any suggestions?
Classic Cardigan by Tin Can Knits. $8 knitting pattern on Ravelry or Tin Can Knits website.
Slade by Michelle Wang (for Brooklyn Tweed). $10 pattern available on Ravelry; $9 on Brooklyn Tweed Website.
Reading Cardigan by Jared Flood. $16 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & for $15 on Brooklyn Tweed website)
DogMomKnits- Fall Knitting Plans- Pigskin Party (if there will be one) info?
There will be a Pigskin Party. I'll be planning it very soon!
On a Happy Note
After a day of resin crafts and pool time, Mom, Dad, Gayle, Meagan, Liz and I headed out for ice cream and then back for 2 round Tock match (Meagan & I won one, Gayle & Liz won one).
I went to Minute Clinic to confirm I had Covid, but mostly to see if I also had strep throat, and was treated by my childhood bestie, Maribeth!
Grateful for my own craft room with a comfy chair in a cool part of the house. Perfect for isolating and making sure Dan didn't get sick. I did go outside a bit on the weekend days. Dan brought up my wheel. I still spent a lot of time lying down between projects but it was nice to get out. I missed our nephew's 16th birthday pool party, though, so that was a bummer.
Jeff was able to get an extra ticket for me to join he and Riley to see Lainey Wilson at the Mohegan Sun casino on Friday night! We had dinner, loved the show, got a cool Watermelon Moonshine Stanley Tumbler, and then I slept over at their house. Hung out with Riley & Millie in the morning, singing Hamilton as Riley made us homemade waffles.
Quote of the Week
The great thing in this world is not so much where we stand as in what direction we are moving.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
29 Jul 2022
Episode 236: Cozy Bunnies!
00:49:13
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 236 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photo check out my website.
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
KAL News
Events
Ask Me Anything
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Woolen Women Splash Pad Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers 80/20 SW Merino/Nylon Blend. Colorway: Into the Deep
Changed color plan- after purchasing new pillows for our couch. Pinks, peach, orange, yellow. bits of tan and purple.
Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).
Shawl Design
Sideways shawl design that I had to rip back to center (after finishing the increases) because I wasn’t happy with how decreases are laying. Figured out what I needed to fix. Ripped back a lot, finally got back to virgin yarn again.
Take a Hike: A Long walk on the Appalachian Trail by Tim Hewitt. Amazon Affiliate Link.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
All projects must be finished by the end of the day (your time) on Sunday July 31, 2022). All entries must be submitted via the Summer Celebration Form by Friday 8/5/22.
823 projects entered so far!3,404 entries for prizes!!
Will announce winners of our final prizes in Episode 237!
90 min massage was great even though it left my calves with polka dot bruises
Beachside drinks and dinner with my bestie Kris, my mom and hers.
Not so happy about wrist pain that lasted for about 4 days but it passed quickly.
Furniture shopping with Mom. First night out we got a bookcase about 27 baskets for me. I took Friday off of work, and we did some more furniture shopping.
I went to the Keith Urban Concert with the fam including a few of our cousins, followed by family sleepover at Mom & Dads that turned into two 90+ degree pool days. Floating. Diving contests. Penny drop (if you want to play this game with your family consider using my Amazon Affiliate link for purchase)
Cardio jazz class with my girlfriends.
Being eligible to donate blood again- 1 year after treatment from Lyme disease ended.
Going to the Red Sox/Gaurdians Game for the David Ortiz Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.
Quote of the Week
I believe one thing; that today is yesterday and tomorrow is today and you can’t stop.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
30 Dec 2023
Episode 269: Warm Hands & Hearts
00:46:54
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 269 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.
After finishing the mittens, I used Duplicate Stitch to write "fear" on the left palm and "less" on the right palm. I used this video tutorial from Very Pink Knits to help me.
Boxing Gloves Ornament
Pattern: Boxing Gloves by Michael Hon ($3 crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
Hook: D (3.25 mm)
Yarn: Caron One Pound in Scarlet + white acrylic worsted weight yarn
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
We celebrated Christmas with friends by decorating Gingerbread houses which was a ton of fun!
Knitting in Passing
I went consignment shopping and reminded the owner that we'd met before and that I was the "knitter" and she promptly asked for help with gauge math for a handspun cabled sweater she wants to cast on.
Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread.
I announced November participation winners.
Updates from Commenter- Mary
Pigskin partiers have been busy this month! Over 500 projects have been submitted for points already this month! Players are finishing both small and large projects. There have been over 30 blitzes and over 40 safeties so far this month.
There’s still time to participate in the Q3 challenge. 14 people have submitted their finished projects for the challenge so far. BlkGirlsKnitPurl (EJ) posted a beautiful Christmas-y version in the end zone dance thread: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/BlkGirlsKnitPurl/the-waymaker-cowl
In the huddle thread, lots of folks who have time off at the end of the year and/or are traveling have been discussing plans for what to work on. There’s also lots of talk of holiday plans and gift knits! Finally, there’s been a bit of chatter about the pros and cons of monogamous knitting and strategies to make sure you are never caught waiting somewhere without a project to work on.
Day 23: At the request of viewer, Suzanne, I shared a few of my shawl patterns, MEGAROW, World of Difference, Boxing Day Bonus and the Riley Rose Shawl. You can use coupon code 10years for 25% off my patterns on Ravelry through the Superbowl!
Riley’s sleepover. Crafting. Watching Spirited (Apple tv movie) for first time.
Dana and Sheri’s Christmas party.
Helping with and enjoying Hattie & Aila's dance recital
Gifting Hattie her ride-on Jeep
We lost power in a storm, but the power outage was shorter quicker than usual. Dan finished his advent puzzles.
Helping to hide Secret Santas at the gym. Taylor, who was the actual Secret Santa, also gifted me a handmade wooden tree and ornament! They are so beautiful and I'm thankful for her thoughtfulness.
Christmas lunch with my friends Waveney and Kim.
Running into Megg at the consignment store I kept telling her to visit. We bought found Christmas outfits!
Relaxing Christmas Eve day and ending the day at my cousin Susan’s party.
Christmas Day- playing on the floor with Gabriella and Zachary. Seeing Will and Aila excited about Christmas even well into their teens. A fabulous and fun time spent with my family for the rest of the day.
Quote of the Week
Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
14 Aug 2021
Episode 214: Pigskin Party Prep
00:53:53
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 214 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.
This week's segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Crafty Adventures
Knitting in Passing
KAL News
Events
Contest, News & Notes
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Gabriella's Velvet Bear
Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman- available on Yarnspirations website.
Yarnable will likely open again to new subscribers in August 2021. Considering subscribing? Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN.
I love the Bomb Pop progress keeper from Clay Canon that came with the kit.
272 meters
Millie Margaret (Worsted Version)
Pattern: Millie Margaret Shawl by Jennifer Lassonde
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Chelsea Colorway & Knit Picks Twill in the Sea Salt Heather Colorway
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Crafty Adventures
I dabbled in watercolor using a kit from Let’s Make Art, a gift from my bestie.
I worked on the Holiday Wreath using this kit. I have a Giraffe kit but haven't started it just yet.
Knitting in Passing
I went to a yoga class with one of my favorite instructors, Heather, at Webbs Pro Fitness. After class she pulled me aside to tell me she'd taken up knitting to make some baby hats and had moved on to Christmas stockings! We had a lovely chat!
KAL News
Splash Pad Winners Announced
Pigskin Party '21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they're posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others') on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet- COMING SOON)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Important Updates this episode: Pigskin Prep
Come get Registered!
Please review the Rules, even if you play every year. We've tweaked a few things.
Check out the Sponsor list linked above.
We are doing Teams again this year. The overwhelming feedback from last year is that you really enjoyed the smaller community found within those teams, so we're excited to bring those back. You will be assigned your team on September 1st (if you register before then), so we'd really like to get most folks signed up before then (if possible). So please spread the word.
Finish those WIPs.
Considering joining the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! We'll be doing monthly Zooms during the Pigskin and have one scheduled for later in August that you can join if you get in at the $5/mo level. Plus you'll have access to my private IG feed and so much more.
Save the Dates- Sept 10+11 for Kick off fun!
Events
Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast with Monica and Cortney- Summer Bingo starts end of May. Check out their website #CCRRsummerbingo2021 Bingo card can be found saved to Stories Highlights in their Instagram account.
Knit Girllls Stash Dash May 28-August 31. Check out their website for more details. They will be hosting the event on Discord this year.
This pattern has been tech edited & test knit so you can knit on with confidence, but if you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to message me. Pattern also contains a link to a video tutorial that shows how to do the slipped stitch technique used in this pattern.
Patterns will be available for $7 each. Email subscribers get the best discount so check your inbox if you want to get both of these patterns.
Intro Deals:
Get both patterns for $6 on Ravelry through 8/22 using code "millie."
Want just 1 pattern? Get 40% off with code "niece," also good through 8/22.
Get your pattern now. Let me know if you need help picking yarn. get your swatch done, then maybe wait until 9/9 to cast on for Pigskin?!! I'm a Pro Shop Sponsor, so you'll get lots of points!
Life in Focus
Visit to Cleenland in Cambridge, MA. Great selection of personal products and cleaning supplies. I brought my own jars with lids and the lovely shop keeper weighed everything when I arrived. This is what I got:
clay mask [SallyeAnder rose for drier skin, emerald vegan for drier skin, or golden for oilier skin $5.23/oz]
face lotion [Oneka unscented $3.98/oz]
tooth tabs [Unpaste with or without fluoride pack of 125 for $8.50]
Bamboo tooth brush
dishwasher detergent [Azure Standard $0.29/oz = $0.15/load]
dish soap [Puracy lemongrass or unscented $0.15/oz]
bar dish soap [Meliora unscented or lemon $9.49/bar]
recycled garbage bags [If You Care $4.99]
toilet paper (100% recycled paper $1.07/roll or bamboo $1.15/roll)- Who gives a crap brand.
Melora cleaning tabs- 3 in the pack
On a Happy Note
Gabriella's 1st birthday. Pics of her hugging the teddy I made her
Will & Aila sleepover. Getting into hysterics as Dan, Dad, Mom and I all tried Will's new VR game system. Deer all around! We all just watched in fascination!
My Knit Picks Felici order!!!!!
I took my nephew, Garret, to Gillette Stadium for the first Patriot's Practice of the season. Sleepover.
Meeting up with Petrina and Ryan at Gather Here in Cambridge, MA
Quote of the Week
Longevity researcher Dan Buettner on the health benefits of friendship: "I argue that the most powerful thing you can do to add healthy years is to curate your immediate social network. In general, you want friends with whom you can have a meaningful conversation. You can call them on a bad day and they will care. Your group of friends are better than any drug or anti-aging supplement, and will do more for you than just about anything."
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Jun 2020
Episode 186: Rainbows & Reflections
01:02:42
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 186 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:
I started the show with a bit of my perspective on and support for Black Lives Matter. Tune in to hear the details. I also shared a quote from Gretchen Rubin from Episode 267 of the Happier Podcast. “The things of ordinary life can seem trivial especially at times like this but big things coexist with little things— and by taking care of little things– and our own lives —we strengthen ourselves to take action on big things. And to turn outward— and to think about other people and the right action we can take in the world.”
Pattern: Corner to Corner Start tutorial by Lauri Bolland
Hook: I (5.25mm)
Yarn: Vanna’s Choice 3 skeins each of (pink) and (light gray)
Thanks to walshcentral- Maryann for inspiration and link to pattern on Ravelry.
I found this tutorial very useful to get my head around the construction.
I used this link for Border help but found that I was getting too much flare, so after first round of (chain 3, sc) instead of DC in each chain, I did 2 DC, then DC in the SC below.
Graceful by Kristina Smiley free crochet pattern for Expression Fiber Arts
KAL News
Quarterly Quests!
Get all of the details here. Check out the Quarter 2 Thread April 1-June 30 – Free the Favorites Knit any projects you have “hearted” over the year with the hopes of knitting them someday. That day will arrive. Knit as many as you can. You will receive extra entries for any pattern that was favorited over 5 yearsIt can be something you’ve made before
Thank you to our Quarter 2 Sponsors: Prairie Bag Works, NahSt Designs, Yumi Yarns Designs, agirlandherwool, Holly Press Fibers. Don’t forget to post on Instagram #QuarterlyQuests you can also add one for the Quarter: #sQuelchtheQueue#FreetheFavorites#LessentheLibrary#SlaytheStash& you can always add #downcellarstudiopodcast
Yarn Used in Sample (Medium): Main Color used 30 grams, 74 yards / 68 meters. Contrast Color used 22 grams, 71 yards / 65 meters.
Sizes
Small (Medium, Large)
Finished palm circumference: 6 (7, 8) in / 15.25 (17.75, 20.25) cm
Intended to fit with no-ease to a little bit of negative ease. Select the size that is closest to your handcircumference as measured just below the knuckles. If you are between sizes, I’d recommend going down to a smaller size
Pattern Info
Pattern has 2 linked video tutorials- how to work the 1×1 cable without a cable needle and without dropping the stitch off your needles.
How to do the Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy BO on 1×1 rib.
Tech edited and test knit.
Life in Focus
I talk about focusing on committing to my own anti-racism education and how I can sustain both education and action. Resources mentioned: Me & White Supremacy Book by Layla Saad & Justice in June
Ask Me Anything
Shateen Amanda asked: What is your current favorite lunch or snack?
Lunch- Siracha Ranch salad (salad with any veggies I have in my fridge and the Siracha Ranch dressing from Trader Joe’s)
Snack- fruit. or popcorn
Limestone knits asked: What are your favorite cardigan patterns
I learned part way through that she’s the author of perhaps my favorite blog post of all timesabout a giant metal chicken named Beyonce. Find that post here.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
In My Travels
Tune in to hear about my visit to Scratch Supply Co. in Lebanon, New Hampshire. I was so excited to meet Karen and Jessica. I’m working on a video so if you’re not already subscribed to my channel on YouTube: Down Cellar Studio, check it out!
I also shared stories about a recent camping trip to Vermont and sleeping in Dan’s hammock.
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Monthly Scavenger Hunt: Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc
On a Happy Note
I ordered Legacy Fiber Artz Advent Calendar!
I’m signed up for another Advent Swap through the Between Knits & Purls YouTube Channel/Ravelry Group. Sign ups for this close on 10/16/21. Check out their Ravelry Post for details.
Outdoor yoga!
Riley & Millie’s softball games.
Apple Picking! My Favorite Day of the Year (Patrons, check out a video in your feed!)
Visiting with Tom who brought us a bunch of beer!
Quote of the Week
“You only need to know the direction, not the destination. The direction is enough to make the next choice.” -James Clear
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps
Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022)
In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial by clicking here.
228 meters for Stash Dash
In a Fog Mittens
Pattern: In a Fog by Allison O’Mahony ($5.50 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the designer’s website)
Needles: US 4 (3.5mm) & US 6 (4.0mm)
Yarn: MC: Spun Right Round (multi color) CC: Fibre Seed Costa Laurel worsted yarn in Colorway CL014 (gray)
This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique.
Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac
For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube.
Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white.
Progress: 5 strips finished. 1 more started. Once finished, I need to seam them together & debating a border.
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs
Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body
Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK in color 547 Sunny
Knitting Size Medium.
Finished in May 2020
I never loved the way it fits me. Riley recently wore it during sleepover, so I let her take it home. She sent me a fit check wearing it with white jean cut offs, a slick hairdo and some poppin lips! Looking gorgeous. Makes me even happier than the meters that helped me kick Jasmin’s butt in 2020!
It’s been a tough couple weeks with Mom having a bad reaction to her normal infusion, then Dan’s mother, Marilyn passed away on June 25th.
On a Happy Note
Our nephew Oisin turned 15 and we enjoyed his taco truck birthday party.
That same weekend, we had 3 kiddos in a dance recital, and our niece Aila was in Beauty & the Beast as Maurice that night. Mom, Riley, Millie and I grabbed dinner (and for the adults a cold beer) in between!
We enjoyed Father’s Day with my dad and gave him custom corn hole boards and bags!
Mom, Riley and I got VIP tickets to Kane Brown at Fenway Park. We wore matching tees Mom bought for us.
Not one but 2 bucks in our driveway at the same time. Stayed long enough for me to bring Dan back.
Fireflies are out! I got to show our friend Liz when she came for dinner.
I got to go into the ORs for the first time, after working at MGH for nearly 21 years.
Quote of the Week
One’s life begins on so many occasions, constructing itself out of accident derived from coincidence compounded by character.–DONALD HALL
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
15 Dec 2021
Episode 222: Holidays, Hijinks & Hugs Here
01:17:13
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 222 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/222
This week’s segments included:
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
From the Armchair
Some Years Later
Crafty Adventures
KAL News
Life in Focus
On a Happy Note
Quote of the Week
Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Charlie, Candy, Alicia, Rachel, Rainah, Luanne & Beth
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
Aila Grace Shawl
Pattern: Aila Grace by Jennifer Lassonde
Yarn: Into the Whirled Gloucester Sock in the Ramble Colorway (oranges, reds, pinks, purples)
If you’d like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson’s Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel
Mermaid Tail Socks
Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
Sweet Bobby Podcast– 6 part investigative series about a woman’s experience with being Catfished in England.
Some Years Later
In July of 201, I knit Mom a pair of socks out of scraps of Knit Picks Felici. I washed them with a large batch of socks this week and both have holes in the heels. Click here for the Ravelry Project Page. At least 1-2 other pairs in this batch were knit before 2017 and they look great.
Crafty Adventures
Mom & I did some Christmas baking with Riley and Millie.
We made Snickerdoodles, Blondies and no-bake protein bites with oats, peanuts and chocolate chips.
Decorating the tree together.
I talked on the last episode about getting wool strips of fabric from Dan’s friend’s mother. In this episode I chat with Mom about supplies my Nana might have for braided rugs.
KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21
Coupon Codes: find details in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Pro Shop Sponsor Exclusive Items: find details as they’re posted in this Ravelry Thread or on my website (coming soon)
Use the Points Tally form for official entry but celebrate with everyone in the End Zone Dance Ravelry Thread and using #DCSPigskinEndZoneDance
Check out your standings (and others’) on the Players Stats Sheet (Google Sheet)
Fumble your entry on the Points Tally form? Use this Support Form (Google Form)
Pre-Game Chatter on Ravelry can be found in this Thread.
Updates in this episode
Monthly Scavenger Hunt (December clues have been posted): Figure out these fun clues and earn points each month. Check out this Ravelry Thread or this Google Doc.
Tune in to hear the winner of the November Interception Challenge.
Tune in to hear November Interception Winners.
December Interception: hosted by Knitty Natty. Find details in this Ravelry thread or in this Google Doc. Cast on 12/1/21 or later. Deadline to post 12/31/21.
Check out Natalie’s patterns for ideas- Ravelry Link.
Vlogmas– check out the playlist on my YouTube Channel.
Out supportive friends, family & medical professionals.
Getting the Christmas wrapping done quickly with Dan’s help.
Quote of the Week
“Life will break you. Nobody can protect you from that, and being alone won’t either, for solitude will also break you with its yearning. You have to love. You have to feel. It is the reason you are here on earth. You have to risk your heart. You are here to be swallowed up. And when it happens that you are broken, or betrayed, or left, or hurt, or death brushes too near, let yourself sit by an apple tree and listen to the apples falling all around you in heaps, wasting their sweetness. Tell yourself that you tasted as many as you could.”
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
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