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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 299 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 * Crafty Adventures * Knitting in Passing * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Bella Fio and Wild Violet Fibers Visit us at wildvioletfibers.com to shop our latest collections and sign up for shop updates. Splash Pad Party participants can use discount code SPLASH25 for 15% off their order. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 103 Hat * Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde. $5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts * Yarn: Malabrigo Rios (worsted) in 845 Cirrus Gray * Needles: US 5 & US 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 115.2 meters (126.0 yards), 60 grams used.

Ebb & Flow Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * This is the repeatable version of the 2023 Advent, with 16 of the original 24 colors. * 259.3 meters (283.5 yards). 70 grams

Granny square top * Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural * Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. * Check out this Instagram reel which highlights. * 60 squares total * Cloudborn 371.7 meters (406.5 yards), 101 grams * Legacy Fiber Artz- 162.9 meters (178.1 yards), 38 grams * Fibernymph Dye Works- 60.4 meters (66.0 yards), 16 grams * Total: 595 meters. 155 grams

Ball Band with a Twist Cozy * Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts * Hooks: F (3.75 mm) & G (4.25 mm) * Yarn: Loops & Thread Classic Cotton in Pewter, Midnight Blue and Bubblegum * Ravelry Project Page * Stash Dash: 40.3 meters * You may also be interested in my more basic jar cozy pattern: Ball Band- Ravelry | LoveCrafts (free)

Stash Dash total for this episode- 1,009.8 meters On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Boss A$$ B|tc# Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Superwash Targhee Fingering in the Boss A$$ B|tc# Colorway (purposely not spelled out here, though it is on the label) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 90g of yarn to start * About the Yarn: Self striping with yellow, tan, peach, pink, light aqua, teal & navy * Progress: All but the toe of sock 2 is done

Miles' Montessori Toy * Pattern: Montessori Colour Sorter by Lexie Warren. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on Crochet River) * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Purple, Orange, Teal and Cyan. Knit Picks Brava in Canary, Rouge and White. * Ravelry Project Page * I've gotten some great ideas in the Toy Cabana chat thread on Ravelry * Progress: 6 cups and 4 balls are done. Need to do white for center (basket and ball)- then seam together. Clever pattern.

Felici Granny Stripe Blanket * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Colorways: Punky, Whatits Galore (50g), Space Disco, Carrot Cake, Base Jump, Game Over, Secret Garden, Fiesta * Pattern: Granny Stripe by Attic 24 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 7 colorways with 100g, 1 with 50g. I have another 50g skein I could add in (more of a pain because you have to wind off half). * I am matching up stripes so they end at same time or as close as possible. * Foundation half-double crochet 101. 1 row of dc (probably could have skipped).

Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket * Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square by by Apinya Roszko * Hook: H (5.0 mm) * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in colorway Mint & Loops and Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01808 * Size: 6 inch squares. Planning 5x7 blanket (30x42”) before border. * Modification- the pattern calls for attaching new yarn (at the end of the square) to make the stem for the clover. I just chain to get to the center, make the stem and cut the yarn. I find it easy to crochet the granny square around it in Mint. No issues and one less end to weave in. * I am joining squares as I go. I used this YouTube tutorial to remind me how to do this. * Progress: Last time I had seamed 7 full squares. Now I have 14 (of 35) squares done and seamed.

716 Splash Pad Socks * Yarn 716 Knit Sock Set in the 716sock base in the colorway: It needs to be ok with getting on a boat with Levar Burton and never coming back. * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors. * Cast on June 1 for SPP Kick off. * Jenna of 716 also sent me the mini skein set which is part of her SPP Exclusives. What should I do with my minis?? * Progress: Leg of first sock nearly finished

From the Armchair * Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Crafty Adventures I came home from a massage dying to paint. I pulled out my watercolors and painted the sensations of my pain and the colors I associated with each. I'll be playing with this concept more in the future (hopefully next time on actual watercolor paper and maybe using other media too). Knitting in Passing * A nice gentleman said my crochet was beautiful and that he crochets. I showed him my tank top which was nearly done at the time. * We went to a grad party for my SIL and a friend of hers remembered me from Zach's birthday. She wants to crochet so we talked about resources etc. * Reconnected with some of Dan's cousins recently. His cousin Melissa and I often talk books, so that was fun but she also said she'd like to learn to knit and/or crochet. Hoping to get together with her for lunch in Boston soon. * Thank you to Suzanne- Sew Run It for the beautiful handknit hat and three knit hearts for my birthday. She started it shortly after my mom passed. Her notes say "The colors screamed Diane! The pattern is called Pair of Hearts and it too felt like a connection with her. I know you were and will remain close." Pattern= Pair of Hearts is by Chit Chat Knits and is available on Ravelry for $4.50. * Lauren lbeth21 messaged me with Jess from Stitched by Jessalu at Central NY Fiber Fest * Susie of The Huckleberry Girl offered to send me a bag. I was thinking of summer and Splash Pad when looking at her shop and she had a bag with Blueberries and Butterflies which made me think of Mom. So special. Thank you, Susie.

KAL News * Splash Pad Party Registration is open + View Stats and/or Verify Registration here.

• Check out our Sponsor List
• Splash Pad Official Rules
• Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you!
• Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.

Splash Pad RAVELRY Links * Start Here Thread * Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread * Coupon Codes Thread * Questions Thread

Events * Stash Dash hosted by the Knit Girllls- May 29th-August 30th * Summer Bingo with the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast . Get your Bingo Card on Instagram. * Sock Week hosted by Knitty Natty- July 20-27 + Goal is to complete 1 adult sock during Sock Week

• Tour de Fleece: July 5-July 27 . Tour de Fleece Ravelry Group.
• Rest Days: Tuesday, July 15 and Monday, July 21.

• Challenge Days: The first one is Stage 10, on Monday, July 14. The second is Stage 15, on Sunday, July 20.

• Summer Spin In hosted by Marsha & Kelly of Two Ewes Fiber Adventure. May 31- September 1. All spinning and making with handspun yarn counts. Preparing fleeces also counts. Let’s go!

• Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA- August 8-10
• Fiber Revival in Newbury, MA- August 16th

Life in Focus * I shared about my Summer Bucket List and the graphic/template I created for my Patrons. Do you have any ideas for me? * My Word of the Year for 2025 is Welcome. I recently received a beautiful cross stitched piece with the word Welcome on it from Heidi, Yarnitheidi on Instagram and Ravelry. Thank you, Heidi!

On a Happy Note * The Splash Pad Kick Off Virtual sessions were so much fun! * The Waitress at the North Shore Music Theater (closes 6/15) * Cellar clean out, using new shelves and bins to organize. We also gathered a lot of items to donate. * Playing Five Crowns, totally exhausted, crushing the guys (had a score of 3 then 7 for most of the game) and then going home to sleep. * Quality time at the nail salon with Riley * Knitting by the pool as Riley, Garret & Millie took their first dip. * Will's high school graduation party. * Flowers for my birthday * Red Sox game with my Dad. * A stressful work project really ramped up on my birthday. My friend got yummy pastries for us to share in the office. * Celebrating my birthday with Dan, Dad, Riley Garret and Millie. * Really funny birthday videos from Gabriella & Zachary. * Audible sale. I got a ton of great books and I'm really excited about reading again. * Daisies are finally starting to come in. They grow wild in our yard but they're late this year.

Quote of the Week “A well-composed book is a magic carpet on which we are wafted to a world that we cannot enter in any other way.” ― Caroline Gordon Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 298 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 * 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 sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu. Find Stitched by Jessalu at the Central New York Fiber Festival June 7 & 8 10:00am – 4:00pm at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Frankfort, NY. Go find Jess and her beautiful bags there! On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Granny square top * Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural * Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. * Memorial Day weekend I spent Saturday and Sunday mornings quietly working away at the dining room table on this project. Check out this Instagram reel which highlights the project so far. * 13 squares around and 4 rows high for the body. * I added SC to trim around all of the edges. * Around the bottom, I added a round of SC and a round of HDC. I am playing around with idea of bobbles or puff stitch but want to try on before I decide.

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (Yarnable Box January 2025) in the Intergalactic colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: aqua, gray and purple. * After switching to the new Knit Picks US 2 needle with a 47 inch cord, I flew through most of this hat!

Let's Get Basted Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Let's Get Basted Colorway (Yarnable November 2024 colorway) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- cream with gray, purple, tan/brown and small blips or orange. Spiral pooling. * Progress: both socks are nearly ready for the toes.

Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: first sock finished. Second sock- a few inches into the leg (after the cuff)

Boss A$$ B|tc# Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Superwash Targhee Fingering in the Boss A$$ B|tc# Colorway (purposely not spelled out here, though it is on the label) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 90g of yarn to start * About the Yarn: Self striping with yellow, tan, peach, pink, light aqua, teal & navy * Progress: long leg and heel done on sock #1.

Ebb & Flow Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: nearly finished second sock. Ready for toe

David... Fold in the cheese socks #2 * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn- cream, pink and blue to match rose apron David wears in this episode of Schitt's Creek. * Progress: started toe of first sock

Felici Granny Stripe Blanket * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Colorways: Punky, Whatits Galore (50g), Space Disco, Carrot Cake, Base Jump, Game Over, Secret Garden, Fiesta * Pattern: Granny Stripe by Attic 24 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 7 colorways with 100g, 1 with 50g. I have another 50g skein I could add in (more of a pain because you have to wind off half). * I am matching up stripes so they end at same time or as close as possible. * Changing colors typically after 4 rows- unless its a colorway that goes back and forth with the same colors- like carrot cake. * Foundation half-double crochet 101. 1 row of dc (probably could have skipped). * Size: 36" wide. Was 16 inches. Now 28

Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket * Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square by by Apinya Roszko * Hook: H (5.0 mm) * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in colorway Mint & Loops and Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01808 * Originally tried center in Brava colorway- Hunter. TOO DARK. * Clever simple clover pattern in just 2 rounds. * Center square (in darker green)- 4g. Three rounds on outside of clover (in mint)- 12g * Size: 6 inch square. * Planning 5x7 blanket (30x42”) before border. * Modification- the pattern calls for attaching new yarn (at the end of the square) to make the stem for the clover. I just chain to get to the center, make the stem and cut the yarn. I find it easy to crochet the granny square around it in Mint. No issues and one less end to weave in. * I am joining squares as I go. I used this YouTube tutorial to remind me how to do this. * Progress: more than a dozen shamrocks made. I've crocheted and seamed 7 full squares.

From the Armchair Podcast- Cramped * Created & hosted by Kate Helen Downey. 9 episodes. I've listened to 4 or 5 so far. * I heard Kate talking about this project on the Culture Study Podcast: Everything We Don't Talk About When We Talk About Periods. * If nothing tune in for the theme song! Its incredible.

Book: All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me by Patrick Bringley. Amazon Affiliate Link. Musical: The Light in the Piazza at The Huntington Theater in Boston Want to see it? Use promo code TELLAFRIEND25 for 25% off tickets toThe Light in the Piazza. 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 Tune in to hear about the graduation photo book I made for Eme. Knitting in Passing * A nice gentleman said my crochet was beautiful and that he crochets. I showed him my tank top which was nearly done at the time. * We went to a grad party for my SIL and a friend of hers remembered me from Zach's birthday. She wants to crochet. * We reconnected with some of Dan's cousins at a wake this week. His cousin Melissa and I often talk books, so that was fun but she also said she'd like to learn to knit and/or crochet.

In My Travels * Eme's graduation! * Mount Monument hike. * The Foundry: we saw Cantrip * SALA boutique at the Foundry * We checked out 2 breweries- Big Elm Taproom & Antimony

KAL News * Splash Pad Party Registration is open + View Stats and/or Verify Registration here.

• Check out our Sponsor List
• Splash Pad Official Rules
• Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you!
• Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.

Splash Pad RAVELRY Links * Start Here Thread * Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread * Coupon Codes Thread * Questions Thread

Updates for this Episode: * Splash Pad Kick Off- June 1st. Click here for the schedule * elisewentwest created a Google Sheets tracker for your Splash Pad Projects for those who like to plan/track outside of our official Summer Celebration Form (though don't forget to do that if you want to get your entries for prizes) + Click “File” » “Make a Copy”from there, you can name your own version of the tracker and have an editable version to track your projects! + The submission form is linked in the top row. In the Points column, you can select more than one option to help you track how many points/entries you earned for a project.

• Pattern Bundle Collection of sponsor patterns for you to browse. Thanks, SewRunKnit!

Events * Stash Dash hosted by the Knit Girllls- May 29th-August 30th * Summer Bingo with the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast . Get your Bingo Card on Instagram.

On a Happy Note * Seeing Kimberly Akimbo with Megg. I never buy merch, but I bought a mug and I love it! * Mammogram- all clear! Reminder: go get yours if you're due. * After Eme's graduation, we all finished packing up their townhouse, then met up a brewery and walked next door for a delicious dinner outdoors at a Mexican restaurant- Agave. * Antiquing with Dan on Sunday before we went to Cantrip show. * I went to play cards with Dan's friends. * Dan and I celebrated 21 years together! * We went to see Will before Senior Prom. While waiting for him, it was so fun to see all of the outfits! * My plants! Seeing real growth, transplanting and seeing things continue to thrive. * Celebrating Jenna's Masters Degree * My Dad, my cousins and I went to see my youngest cousin Bella in a high school production of Little Women (the musical). She played Amy (1 of the 4 sisters) and she did a phenomenal job. Dad and I got dinner before hand and caught up. Great night! * Low key Memorial Day weekend! Lots of lazy morning making time to work on my crochet top. * Working with Dan, Jeff, Riley and Dad to open the pool! First cookout on the back deck. * Lovely warm-weather walk to Lolita for dinner before seeing The Light in the Piazza. * Will's high school graduation

Quote of the Week We are not permitted to choose the frame of our destiny. But what we put into it is ours. -DAG HAMMARSKJOLD ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 297 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 * Contest, News & Notes * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Dinosaur T-Rex * Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted * Hook: 2.5 mm * Changed teeth- white embroidered Vs

Belle the Butterfly #4 * Pattern: Belle the Butterfly $4 pattern from Theresascrochetshop on Etsy * Hook: D (3.25 mm( * Yarn: leftover DK yarn from stash * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins David... Fold in the cheese socks #2 * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn- cream, pink and blue to match rose apron David wears in this episode of Schitt's Creek. * Nearly to the heel of the first sock

Inclinations Cowl * Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. * My Ravelry Project Page * I love working with my handspun

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (Yarnable Box January 2024) in the Dino-Mite colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: aqua, gray and purple. * I don't love knitting on small needles in the round. Just placed a knit picks order so I ordered a US 2 needle with a 47 inch cord to see if going back to magic loop may serve me better.

Granny square top * Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural * Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. * Progress: Squares to date: 57 squares.

Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Worked on these last weekend. Nearly to the toe on the first sock.

Cozy Clusters Blanket #5 * Pattern: Cozy Clusters by Leelee Knits- $5.99 crochet pattern available on Ravelry or free from their website * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in Dove Heather * Hook: J hook (6.0 mm) (cast on) and I hook (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 53 clusters wide * Currently 34 inches wide about 15.5 inches tall. hoping to get to 36 inches tall before border

Felici Granny Stripe Blanket * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Colorways: Punky, Whatits Galore (50g), Space Disco, Carrot Cake, Base Jump, Game Over, Secret Garden, Fiesta * Pattern: Granny Stripe by Attic 24 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 7 colorways with 100g, 1 with 50g. I have another 50g skein I could add in (more of a pain because you have to wind off half). * I am matching up stripes so they end at same time or as close as possible. * Changing colors typically after 4 rows- unless its a colorway that goes back and forth with the same colors- like carrot cake. * Foundation half-double crochet 101. 1 row of dc (probably could have skipped). * Size: 36" wide. 14 inches tall so far .

Brainstorming * Blanket for a friend's baby with the Four Leaf Clover Granny Square pattern- available on Ravelry * I wan to make another summer tee or tank, but I should finish the granny square tank first.

From the Armchair All in Her Head by Elizabeth Comen, MD. Amazon Affiliate Link The Wedding People by Alison Espach. 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 gifted Megg her "David Fold in the Cheese!!!" socks from Legacy Fiber Artz Schitt's Creek Series. She loved them! You can check out my Ravelry Project Page here. * Zach liked his dinosaur "I got a baby dinosaur"

KAL News * Splash Pad Party Registration is open + View Stats and/or Verify Registration here.

• Check out our Sponsor List
• Splash Pad Official Rules
• Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you!
• Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.

Splash Pad RAVELRY Links * Start Here Thread * Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread * Coupon Codes Thread * Questions Thread

Virtual Kick Off- Sunday June 1st * Schedule * Auction for FearLESS Living Fund

Events * Webs Tent Sale: May 16-17 in Northhampton, MA * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 24 & 25- Cummington, MA * CNY Fiber Festival- June 7 & 8 in Frankfort, NY * NEAOBA Alpaca Summer Fest 2025- July 12 in Westford, MA (New England Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association- 4th annual) * Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA August 8-10

Contest, News & Notes Yarnable May 2025 Unboxing Video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel On a Happy Note * Kiss Me Kate 2nd weekend shows. More family and friends came out than I knew were coming. * With very little help from me, we loaded up a 16 foot U-Haul with items from Mom's ebay store to send to Vegas with her friends. Huge load out of Dad's cellar and weight off his mind. * Megg and I joined Trish & Vikki at their 1st of 10 Reseller Meet-ups on their way to Vegas. Follow their shenanigans on Instagram, Facebook Group. * Taking Monday off after Kiss Me Kate closed * Spending Friday night at Oisin's Rugby match. He scored and we enjoyed dinner after. * Taking Gabriella and Zach to see Hattie's Wonka show

Quote of the Week “You can’t help what you feel, but you can help how you behave.” ―Margaret Atwood ------ 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 Channel Email me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 296 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

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu (2nd Episode of the Month) Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Pop Tart * Pattern: None * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava & Joann Big Twist Value Solids in Natural Colorway + variegated yarn (fingering weight held double) * Hook:C (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Made for Eme's birthday as a cute something to open. Gifted with a box of edible poptarts.

Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: All of the spinning of the singles is done- finally.

David... Fold in the cheese socks * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn- cream, pink and blue to match rose apron David wears in this episode of Schitt's Creek. * I did a shorter than usual leg- 5.25 inches and 9.5 inch foot. The first sock 28 grams, using CC for toe and cuff, so I should have enough for a second pair of socks with this yarn.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Hot pink spinning * Fiber: Mountain Vewe Coopworths Fiber in hot pink (no specific colorway name)- three 4oz bumps * Ravelry Project Page * 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: ~1/2 way through first bump. 1st bobbin nearly full.

Granny Square Tan Top * Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural * Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. * Progress: Squares to date: 25 squares.

Boss A$$ B|tc# Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Superwash Targhee Fingering in the Boss A$$ B|tc# Colorway (purposely not spelled out here, though it is on the label) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 90g of yarn to start * About the Yarn: Self striping with yellow, tan, peach, pink, light aqua, teal & navy * Progress: cast on 1st sock. Finished cuff and an inch or two into leg.

Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl * Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted * Hook: 2.5 mm * Progress: I've made T-Rex head and body. Thought I'd run out the yarn for the body (25g mini).

Brainstorming Advent brainstorm- Granny Wrap available on Ravelry. Kristina- foryouandyarn- reminded me that I love Ali's Starryeyesali's Ravelry Project Page. From the Armchair * The Crow Trap by Ann Cleves. Amazon Affiliate Link. * A Window Opens by Elisabeth Egan. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Annie Bot by Sierra Greer. 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 My cousin Ava knit the Storm Sweater by Petite Knit for her boyfriend Luke. * Pattern available on Ravelry & the Petite Knit Website (~$8 knitting pattern)

KAL News * The Splash Pad Party celebrates its 10th year and officially opens on June 1st. Save the date for some fun kick off events that day! * Interested in sponsoring? Check out this link for details.

Events * New Hampshire Sheep and Wool: May 10-11 in Deerfield, NH * Webs Tent Sale: May 16-17 in Northhampton, MA * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 24 & 25- Cummington, MA * Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA August 8-10

Life in Focus * I shared an update on my Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome & some 25 in 2025 list.

25 in 2025 list * 1) Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March) * 4) Go camping (scheduled for June) * 10) Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) * 13) Get at least 2 massages at Oasis (1 in April) * 17) Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog 2&3: Love Bugs, 4 pop-tart, 5 butterfly. WIPs-Another butterfly & TRex) * 18) Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Done monthly so far) * 23) Buy a firebox and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it) + https://www.thenokbox.com (Debbie, deafelis recommended)

• 25) Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes
• Probably have at least this much done

On a Happy Note * Shucked musical. We had dinner at Democracy Brewing beforehand. Delicious tacos and good beer. * Celebrating April Birthdays * Decorating for Easter with Dad, Millie and Garret * Celebrating Easter with the family! * The Pulse on Netflix- my cousin Michael William Freeman was in the last few episodes. * I survived tech week and had the forethought to take off Friday before opening weekend. * Laura came in from NYC for my show. * Opening of Kiss Me Kate!

Quote of the Week “Because the birdsong might be pretty, But it's not for you they sing, And if you think my winter is too cold, You don't deserve my spring.” ― Erin Hanson ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 295 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 * Some Years Later * Knitting in Passing * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Some Bunny Loves You Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Some Bunny Loves You Colorway (Yarnable April 2023 colorway) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- cream base with speckles of purple, blue, rust. * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BostonJen

Belle the Butterfly #3 * Pattern: Belle the Butterfly $4 pattern from Theresascrochetshop on Etsy * Hook: C * Yarn: leftover DK yarn from stash * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: 3rd bobbin done and onto the 4th. This is the batt that never ends! Getting closer but still not done.

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, Gray * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. * Goal: 6 per week * Progress: 19 2 weeks ago & 12 last week (week 7 & 8)- 106 in 8 weeks- avg/13 per week * 129 not attached and 48 attached. * Current draft is 18 rows and 16 columns- 288 squares. 177 done/ 111 to go- 61% done

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist * I started in September 2023- due to finish in August 2024. This month, I finished the squares for the last month's kit.

Let's Get Basted Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Let's Get Basted Colorway (Yarnable November 2024 colorway) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- cream with gray, purple, tan/brown and small blips or orange. Spiral pooling. * Progress: about 2 inches away from heel of the first sock.

David... Fold in the cheese socks * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress- almost to heel on the first sock

Brainstorming * I was inspired by Jenna(716knit) at the Fiber Witch Festival, had on a marled scrappy shawl that was gorgeous! It got me thinking that I really want to start something with my Legacy Fiber Artz minis from previous year advents. Maybe a Granny Stripe blanket? * Or perhaps another Recollections crochet blanket. I made one in the summer of 2022 (check out my Ravelry Project Page). It uses fingering weight yarn held triple and treble crochets. You work each row right to left and cut each time. between each set of clusters you use a main color. Debating using Fibernymph 10g minis from last year's advent for those rows (notes say it used- about 8g per row but that's held triple which might just be too annoying). * I'm debating making a smaller blanket that will live on the backseat of my car, draped over. Mostly for the pop of color with my gray interior but I bet the kids would use it when they're back there. * I'd also like to make a crocheted granny square tank top for the summer so I could potentially use some of my minis for that. * Do you have any ideas for me?

From the Armchair * The Wandering Purl YouTube channel- I have a Gilmore Girls sock sized bag from Bethany and I know lots of you are fans of her, but I didn't realize she had a channel! Enjoying her content, check it out. * White Lotus- Season 3: it was a slow burn of a season with some seriously cringy content but I loved how the finale came 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. Some Years Later I wore my Construction Zone top April 4th. Construction Zone * Pattern: Construction Zone by Heidi Kirrmaier ($7.50 US knitting pattern) * Yarn: Tempting Ewe Yarns Luxe Aran (90% Merino/10% Silk) in the Grey Goose Colorway. 2 skeins 340 yards total * Needles: US 9 | 5.5 mm * Ravelry Project Page

I've been wearing my handknit sweaters as April has been cold and rainy! * Aurealis (Ravelry Project Page) * Silverlining (Ravelry Project Page) * Freewheeler (Ravelry Project Page) * Mom's socks

Knitting in Passing At a recent rehearsal for Kiss Me Kate, my fellow cast member, Janet, told me about this yarn company her friend Katie Aucella owns called Claws Out Yarn- here's a link to her shop. You can also find Claws Out Yarn on YouTube Channel & Instagram In My Travels Tune in to hear more about my trip to the Fiber Witch Festival in Salem. I loved meeting up with friends, Monique (Windswept Monique on Instagram) who brought me 2 skeins of beautiful wool yarn that she's allergic to, to sell/raffle off for FearLESS Living Fund. I met up with Ryan kollerskrafts and Jenna 716knit and shopped around with them and we grabbed lunch after. It's always a joy to see bag maker and podcast sponsor Jess of Stitched by Jessalu. Into the Whirled- Cris + James who were there selling jewelry which you can find under the shop name westand28. I believe they will be at Maryland Sheep & Wool. Check them out on Instagram too. They had beautiful handdyed silk cordage bracelets with sterling silver. Each color has meaning. I couldn't decide! + Heart pendant (similar to this one). Mom- fine silver (.999) metal clay.

Jess also introduced me to Fiber Witch Festival organizers Ana Campos (Circle of Stitches). Emily (Kitty with a Cupcake). I purchased a progress keeper that's a floppy disk in yellow w/ a rainbow on it. Dragon Hoard Yarn- Myth Fingering in one of her show special colorways- Gardens of Persephone I purchased a project bag (Gardener's Magical Craft Shelf bag) and beautiful sticker with hand drawn art from Dawn Kathryn I had lunch with Ryan and Jenna at Turner's Seafood I visited Circle of Stitches yarn store in Salem. I purchased a mini skein from Cryptic Hollow Fibers, 9 inch circular socks needles from ChiaoGoo. & 2 cute stickers. I was so happy to run into Val (valtherizzle) as I was checking out! I also shopped at Modern Millie's, Re-find (2 pairs of earrings) & Oak & Moss- where I purchased a lemon button fern. KAL News The Splash Pad Party kicks off soon! It will be our 10th year (even though yes we took last year off). Mark your calendars: June 1- July 31 Events * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * New Hampshire Sheep and Wool: May 10-11 in Deerfield, NH * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 24 & 25- Cummington, MA

On a Happy Note * I found old photos of theater and dance friends which I brought to rehearsal. * My friend and I went to Gretchen Rubin's Q&A for her new book Secrets of Adulthood (Amazon Affiliate link). * Dan and I went to the Oligo Nation Gala to support our friend John who was receiving an inspiration award. I wore a fun dress from Poshmark and Mom's jewelry. * Kris' birthday dinner at a local mexican restaurant. * Dad, Jeff and I enjoyed a video chat organized by my cousin Jimmy. * Repotting some plants. Hoping they take. * Dinner with Megg at Scutari in Hanover, MA * I visited Vico Style on Charles St in Boston- found 2 dresses that could work for Kiss Me Kate & 1 just for me. * Visited with my Dad, Millie and Garret over the weekend and we decorated for Easter. * Rehearsal for Kiss Me Kate is going well!

Quote of the Week Sometimes we should express our gratitude for the small and simple things like the scent of the rain, the taste of your favorite food, or the sound of a loved one's voice. -Joseph B. Wirthlin ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 294 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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 * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu * Find Stitched by Jessalu at the Fiber Witch Festival Marketplace: April 12-13 in Salem, MA. The Market is 11a-5p Sat & Sunday and market tickets are still available. Pre-purchase or tickets will be available at the door for either day. The 3-5 slot each day is free, so go find Jess and her beautiful bags there!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Aila's Daisy Socks * Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 & US 2 * Progress: Cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing. Increased up to 64 sts. Switched to US 2 needles for colorwork. Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches before turning the heels.

How Time Flies Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the How Time Flies Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn- cream base with pink, green. January 2024 Yarnable Colorway: Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: 3rd bobbin done and onto the 4th. This is the batt that never ends!

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, Gray * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. * Goal: 6 per week * Progress: I am still ahead of schedule!

Some Bunny Loves You Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Some Bunny Loves You Colorway (Yarnable April 2023 colorway) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- cream base with speckles of purple, blue, rust. Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

Inclinations Cowl * Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. * My Ravelry Project Page * Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. Bags are still available! Check them out.

Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl * Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted * Hook: 2.5 mm * Progress: I've made T-Rex head and body.

Brainstorming * T Jaik flower crochet patterns- check them out on Ravelry. They are so realistic I didn't think they were actually crochet photos! * Teddy Bear Eyeglasses holder by Tanya Naser- free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. * Eme's Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks

From the Armchair * The Crash by Freida McFadden. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Colored Television by Danzy Senna. Amazon Affiliate Link. * I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai. Amazon Affilitate 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 * On Wed night before music rehearsal Megg asked me to help her cast on a Love Bug with Bernat Blanket to practice for school. (free crochet pattern on Ravelry). Yarn has a lot of twist, got all tangly and we stayed after to untangle it together while other cast members performed on stage. * On the first night of rehearsal one of my cast-mates asked about my knitting and through that conversation we figured out we've worked together before. She was the choreographer when I was in a production of Crazy for You at a local community college when I was in high school. * I wore my Aurealis sweater (Ravelry Project Page) one night to music rehearsal and my friend Deana complimented it and I told her I knit it! * Laura's sock drawer! How gorgeous is this?

In My Travels Vegas trip for BOSS Reseller Remix & FearLESS Living Fund 2025 Awards * We gave away 2 $5,000 scholarships * Mom's friend Crystal got a fearless tattoo on her arm. * We enjoyed visiting the Sphere to see the Postcards from Earth documentary. * We checked out the Bellagio Conservatory for their beautiful display of Easter decor/flowers. * Knitting at craps table with Jeff. The manager told me he doesn't see many firsts anymore but I was the first person he'd ever seen knitting in a casino before. He came back a few minutes later asking what I was making- definitely intrigued. * It took until the last day- walking through New York New York to find Wizard of Oz slots Mom loved best. * It was obviously a bittersweet trip. Ryan Wilson said it best when he said before talking about 2 winners- in some ways this is the most important year because its the first one without Mom and we're still doing it. * If you want to see the awards presentation, here's a link to video on my YouTube channel.

Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission * Megg, Riley and I went in the morning. * Riley wore her crocheted flowered top (Ravelry Project Page). I wore my Aurealis (Ravelry Project Page)- finally got good FO photos for my Project Pages. * I purchased punch needle coasters for my car cup holders from Gina the Botina * We also purchased mini skeins from 2 makers- that I sent home with Riley + East Coast Yarn Co + Wild Violet Fibers

• Riley picked out a delicious cinnamon roll from Union Square Donuts that we shared.
• Megg got some cute crafty projects for her kids for Easter/graduations.

Events * Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) * Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * New Hampshire Sheep and Wool: May 10-11 in Deerfield, NH * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA

Contest, News & Notes I heard about GoSadi in Vogue Knitting email. Have you heard of it? Ask Me Anything * Instagram- Knitbakecook- Do you ever have crafting slumps? If so, how do you overcome them? + Yes! Sometimes it helps just to lean into that, don't pressure yourself and then lean back in when you get the urge. More often, what works best is to start something new (or pick back up something that is exciting you). Ideally something small like a hat or a toy so you get that dopamine hit of finishing something fun to get those creative juices flowing. Search your Ravelry favorite or queue, browse Instagram or Pinterest and let yourself day dream a little. Creative time should be fun so find the fun and you'll be excited to get back into things.

• Instagram- ndoyal- When are you coming to the PNW?!

• I am planning to go to Flock in August.

• Instagram- nukerklein- Have you been or are you planning to go to VT Sheep & Wool in the fall?

• This year it's October 4-5 (Dad's birthday- so likely not this year)

• Check out this vlog from 2024 trip to VT Sheep & Wool.

• NDoyal- Dates for Splash Pad

Sunday June 1 through Thursday July 31st. Would folks be interested if we did Zoom events Sunday 6/1? On a Happy Note * St. Patrick's Day at my cousin's. Emelie "cutting" my hair. * Lea made us acrylic pieces with Mom's funeral flowers in them. Keychain, bottle opener and bookmark * Riley sleepover- Sample sale (bought matching PJs). Silly pics in the closet before bed. Ushering for Rent at The Company Theatre. * Addams Family Musical and Lolita with Megg * Dinner with Liz * My favorite massage therapist is back at Massage Envy * Bike riding with Dan * Dinner out at a local Italian place for a friend's birthday. * Thrifting and finally watching Kiss Me Kate (movie) with Megg

Quote of the Week One of the pleasures of getting older is that one can get so much nearer to one's own people, and that the dear ones of them become dearer all the time. –Willa Cather ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 293 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 * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsor- The Yarn Sellar. Fiber Marketplace 2025- SATURDAY APRIL 5 , 2025 from 10-3pm at the Union Bluff Hotel 8 Beach Street, York Beach Maine 207-363-1333. Join us for a fun-filled party on Friday, April 4th from 5:30-7:00 Andra Asars (Berroco rep) will be hosting our event. Tickets are on sale in the shop and our online shop. You may win a prize. $25 (only 25 tickets) Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Aurealis * Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass ($8 US Ravelry Knitting Pattern) * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) * Ravelry Project Page * Size: C * Mods: Bottom ribbing- 2x2 instead of 1x1. Ribbing on sleeves is also 2x2

Love Bugs * Pattern: Love Bug by Trish Hoskin (free crochet pattern on Ravelry) * Hook: C- 2.75 mm * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted & Knit Picks Brava Worsted * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Ebb & Flow Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: first sock done. I cast on the second.

Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: Nearly finished with my 3rd bobbin of fiber

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, Gray * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. * Goal: 6 per week * Crocheted 7 last week.

Aila's Daisy Socks * Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway * Pattern: None (will likely use OMG heel) * Needles: US 1.5 & US 2 * Ravelry Project Page * I cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing and daisy pattern I charted out using US 1.5 needles. Way too tight. In listening to another podcast, I was reminded that going up a needle size may help. Reknit colorwork section with US 2. Too tight. Washed and blocked to be sure AND to see if I liked the fabric with a US 2. I do. Increased up to 64 sts. Used US 2 for colorwork. Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches.

Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * The Secret History by Donna Tartt. Amazon Affiliate Link. * How to Stop Time by Matt Haig. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. 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 * Annissa from The Stitch House sat down next to me on train and asked about knitting. It was great catching up with her.

KAL News * All Pigskin Grand Prize Winners have been emailed.

Events * Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission * Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) * Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA

Contest, News & Notes Stitched by Jessalu FearLESS Living Fund Bags have raised $194! You can find the bags here & 30% of the sales go towards the FearLESS Living Fund! Life in Focus 25 in 2025 List- I've made progress on these items * Donate Blood at least 4 times (1 in January) * Buy new ski boots- DONE * Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) * Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to) * Get at least 2 massages at Oasis scheduled * See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru) * Knit 2-5 garments for me (Aurealis & WIP- Monsoonee Sweaters) * Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket * Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog, 2 love bugs) * Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan & Feb, March done) * Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend) * Buy a fireproof box and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it)

On a Happy Note * A luxurious mani/pedi * Dinner with my cousins down in Plymouth. * A lovely visit with my grandmother- got her TV working so she could watch the Red Sox again. * Pushing outside of my comfort zones in music rehearsals for Kiss Me Kate, but really enjoying the dancing. 2 hours of tap on Sunday! Loved every second. * I went to dinner and to see a local production of Rent on Friday evening. My all time favorite show. * Season 2 of Silo on Apple TV * Paradise on Hulu

Quote of the Week I cannot think of myself apart from the influence of the two or three greatest friendships of my life, and any account of my own growth must be that of their stimulating and enlightening influence. –Edith Wharton ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 292 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos are available on my website. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Brainstorming * Some Years Later * 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 sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu . Find Jessalu at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2: check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/. FearLESS Living Fund bags available now- click here. 30% of sales go to our FearLESS Living Fund. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks * Yarn: Freckled Whimsy * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Stranger Things 2 Socks * Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2 * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress- nearly to toe of first sock

Ebb & Flow Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Aurealis * Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) * Size: C

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 * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.

Brainstorming I'd like to knit a balaclava for skiing * Convertible Balaclava by Poppy Shop- available on Ravelry, Etsy & Poppy Shop website for $9.50 Canadian (worsted weight yarn, ribbed below nose) * Crayon Balaclava by Mia Filisch- available on Ravelry for free. Calls for Aran weight yarn- 3 sizes. would need to gauge swatch and see if I can adjust for lighter yarn. * Stripes Ski Mask by Leisure Arts- available on their website for $5.99. See link on Ravelry as well.

I'm also debating something that goes over ski helmet and maybe a fair isle fingering weight sweater for me! Some Years Later Love the set that matches my ski coat. * Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher- Ravelry Project Page (DK fair isle) * In a Fog Mittens by Allison O'Mahony - Ravelry Project Page * Drawn Together cowl by Shana Cohen- Ravelry Project Page

Crafty Adventures * Millie and Hattie wanted to get crafty during their birthday sleepover. * We bought some supplies at the Dollar Tree & Millie brought a paper bead making kit I gave her for Christmas. * Check out Episode 2 of Millie Makes on the Down Cellar Studio Youtube Channel. * For fibery crafts, Millie shared some progress on her Dads hat, Hattie practiced treadling on my spinning wheel and Hattie & I made pompoms. I want to turn mine into a garland.

Knitting in Passing I met a lovely listener named Emily in an elevator at work! In My Travels * Last weekend, my brother Jeff and 2 of his kids- Riley and Garret, my friend Megg, her daughter Hattie, son Oisin & Oisin's girlfriend Ginger and I all went skiing at Sunday River in Maine.

KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 * Tune in to hear if you won one of our 12 Grand Prizes. I will email winners in about a week, to give you time to tune in.

Events * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * Knit North Yarn Crawl: March 13-16. * Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission * Knit for Food a thon April 5th http://www.nelkindesigns.com/index.cfm/page/knitathon/knitathon25.htm sign up the first weekend in February. * Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) * Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA. * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA

On a Happy Note * I took Millie and Hattie to the new Paddington in Peru movie which was really cute. Using Hattie's Shadow Play Book- Wizard of Oz book before bed! Pancakes in the morning! * We brought dinner to a friend who has been facing medical challenges (and thankful Dad let us cook at his house when we lost power)! * Dinner with my first boss and her partner. They spoiled me rotten and it was so great catching up. * Silly braids for skiing! * Megg gifted me 3 skeins of alpaca yarn from her trip to the Azores! 50g skeins in white, gray and a peachy/pink! Can't wait to use them. * New haircut!

Quote of the Week Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening and sometimes they arise from the past. Perhaps it’s the same with people. -JAMES SALTER ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 291 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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 Hedgehog * Pattern: Hedgehog with a Heart by Marina Chuchkalova * Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids worsted acrylic yarn in Chocolate Brown & Soft Gray * Hook: C 2.75 mm * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2 * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Passed heel on first sock (contrast heel)

Aurealis * Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) * Size: C * Progress: Several inches into body

Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: Nearly finished with my 3rd bobbin of fiber

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 * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. * Progress: I've done about 14 in 2 weeks.

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (Yarnable Box January 2024) in the Dino-Mite colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: aqua, gray and purple. * Progress: About 2 inches of straight knitting beyond the crown increases

Brainstorming * I think I'm going to keep the Monsoonee Sweater I started before Christmas (Ravelry Project Page). I could absolutely wear that this winter if I finish it soon. + Almost to bottom ribbing. sleeves will be quick

• I'm debating frogging my Waverly Sweater (Ravelry Project Page). Gauge is a bit tight and its not an enjoyable knit.
• Emelyn's request for socks based on The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Any ideas for me?
• Aila still wants colorwork daisy socks that I started but need to rework.

From the Armchair * One Day in December by Josie Silver. Amazon Affiliate Link. * I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Fury by Alex Michaelides. 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 * Had a lovely fellow knitter say hello on the train, asking if I was going to knit fingers into my project (thinking it was mitts). I told her it was socks, but in general- I agree- knitting fingers is the worst!

KAL News * Thanks for a very successful and fun 11th season! * Tune in to see if you're a January Participation Winner or the winner of our 4th Quarter Challenge hosted by Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details. * Grand Prize winners will be announced in the next episode.

Events * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * Knit North Yarn Crawl: March 13-16. * Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission * Knit for Food a thon April 5th http://www.nelkindesigns.com/index.cfm/page/knitathon/knitathon25.htm sign up the first weekend in February. * Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA. * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA

Life in Focus 25 in 2025 List 1. Donate Blood at least 4 times (1 in January) 2. Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year (my Christmas gift from him) 3. Buy new ski boots- DONE 4. Go camping- scheduled for summer 5. Kayak 2-5 times- scheduled for summer 6. Do at least 5 walks with others 7. Take 2-5 yoga classes (outside of the house) 8. Do at least 30 lessons in Mondly (had 25 done in 2024)- does not include daily lessons 9. Spend a day at Raffa Life 10. Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) doing well. pairing with next one 11. Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to) (feels similar to artist's way- tapping into your authentic self/creative spirit) 12. Read at least 60 books- all books count (even poetry etc) - 4 to date 13. Get at least 2 massages at Oasis 14. See 2-5 movies in the theater 15. Knit 2-5 garments for me (WIPs- Aurealis & Monsoonee Sweaters) 16. Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket 17. Crochet at least 5 toys (1 hedgehog) 18. Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan & Feb done) 19. Have a crafty day with Emelie 20. Knit a slouchy hat for myself 21. Try out 3 new to me podcasts 22. Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara (bringing the tradition back) 23. Buy a firebox and put important papers inside 24. Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation 25. Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes

On a Happy Note * Ice skating with friends. * Started rehearsals for Kiss Me Kate- tap dancing! GREAT for my brain. * Seeing Millie in Pirates of Penzance * Hattie's Surprise Wizard of Oz Party + Laura surprised me.

• Funny Girl with Megg
• Mom's birthday just passed. Difficult day- but we were together and there was a lot of love and support. My friend Kris sent over a very thoughtful gift for me- including a skein of handdyed yarn in a Somewhere over the Rainbow colorway from Cashmere and Coconut.

Quote of the Week To invite a person to your house is to take charge of his happiness as long as he be beneath your roof. –Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 290 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Find full show ntoes with photos on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com 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

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Next month you can find Stitched by JessaLu bags in her online shop, and in person at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2. NETA Spa is a great midwinter weekend gathering for fiber enthusiasts - check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/ Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks * Yarn: Freckled Whimsy * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Inclinations Cowl * Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. * My Ravelry Project Page * Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. She's filling pre-orders from last year first and then will put new listings up for sale so stay tuned.

Aurealis * Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) * Size: C * My washed swatch was closer to 17/18 sts over 4 inches instead of the 20 it calls for so I'm knitting a different size to accommodate.

Stranger Things 2 Socks * Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party using Snack Shack Sponsor yarn. * About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red. * Progress- first sock is done. Second sock is a few stripes from the heel.

Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2 * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project * Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color * Ravelry Project Page * 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: Nearly finished with my second bobbin of fiber

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 * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. * I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. * I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. * I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.

From the Armchair One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London. 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. In My Travels My 12 year old niece, Millie, joined me to do a little recap of our visit to Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA. The sample we saw in the Plied booth is called Super Serene- available on Ravelry. 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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Official Sponsor for Q4: Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details.
• Commentator Mary Klute's report-

It had been very cold lately in North America, even in places that are typically pretty warm in the winter (like Florida getting snow!). This has been no problem for pigskin partiers! The cold weather creates the perfect conditions for cozying up and finishing projects! In the huddle, there has been lots of discussion about what folks can reasonably finish before the end of the party. There was also an interesting discussion about how many WIPs folks can manage at one time. Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of different opinions on that. Earlier this month, 43 players submitted for points as part of the Wild Card WIP challenge! Head on over to that thread to see pictures of projects that players had let languish or even forgot about--butnow they are finished! * ladida2u finished some beautiful colorwork mittens just in time for some snow: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/1-25#16 * plumunou finished a pair of socks. She'd abandoned the project because the first sock came out too short in the foot--let's face it, we've all been in this sort of situation--this challenge motivated her to finish the second sock and rip out the toe of the first one to lengthen the foot. Now she has a super cute pair of socks: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/26-50#34 * histoknitter finished a pair of socks that were started in 2007! Way to go! https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/26-50#37 * hikesandbikes finished a fantastic sweater that is made up of mitered squares. It's amazing! https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/51-75#58 * and speaking of mitred squares, knitternicole finished a blanket! She planned out how much of the icord border she needed to do each day to finish and got it done during wild card week: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/51-75#67

Events * New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * Knit North Yarn Crawl: March 13-16. * Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission * Knit for Food a thon April 5th http://www.nelkindesigns.com/index.cfm/page/knitathon/knitathon25.htm sign up the first weekend in February. * Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA. * Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD * Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA

Contest, News & Notes * Stitched by Jessalu FearLESS Living Fund bags are going out this week and next! 30% going to FearLESS Living Fund. More bags will be listed soon on her website so stay tuned. * You can buy the FearLESS Living Fund fabric that Jess designed on Spoonflower. * I don't think I shared but Mom opened hers right before Christmas and cried. It was really beautiful. You can find on my Day 24 Vlogmas video- click here to go right to that part of the video. * Check out the Millie Makes section on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Video 1 is up! * I've joined Bluesky. I'm Bostonjen1 over there. Come follow-me. Not leaving Instagram, at least not yet, but I'm checking it out.

Thank you to KnittyELF40, Erika, who kindly gifted me her new bundle of patterns- Seasonal Blooms on Ravelry. Life in Focus My Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome Verb: to greet hospitably and with courtesy or cordiality Verb: to accept with pleasure the occurrence or presence of Adjective: giving pleasure: received with gladness or delight especially in response to a need (A welcome addition) Why I need this word: * This year will be a year filled with first after Mom's passing on January 1st. I need to welcome in the new year even when it feels hard, and welcome in whatever emotions come up as I make my way through 2025. * I've spent much time in the last few years focused on my mom (and I'm so glad I could do that), but now I'll have free time to welcome in new things. I want to be thoughtful about my time, but also open to welcoming in new things that will bring me joy. * My mother made everyone feel welcome and at home whether physically in her home or just with her as a person. I strive to make people feel welcome in my presence too and to use that to continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and connection. I hope that this will help me keep alive the many relationships that Mom was able to maintain. * I am an introvert by nature and love the prospect of staying hour with hours of myself to plot out- but I know that I am happier and more fulfilled when I stay connected with those I love, so this year when I'm tempted to say "no thanks" I will try, when possible, to instead say "we'll come" a variation on welcome.

On a Happy Note * About 20 people showed up for one of Garret's hockey games that was nearby! Beautiful show of support and a fun night out. * I found the jewelry Mom gave me for Christmas! Surprise surprise, it was in a bag of knitting stuff that was brought home and put down cellar. * While I missed auditions as we prepped for the funeral, I got a dancing role in Kiss Me Kate with Meg. The show is the last week of April/first weekend in May. * Millie came for a 2 night sleepover during MLK weekend. She made us pancakes! * Organizing my mom's things. Eme came over and we look through craft supplies for a new project they want to do. I found a few things for me (mostly scissors and crochet hooks) and I purged some. * I put away the Christmas tree and put my new plant stand in place! I love it. Dan was going to order me a plant subscription, but instead we'll go together to a local place a few times a year and try to learn a little more about houseplants. * Dinner with my cousins at local Mexican restaurant. * I received a beautiful package of watercolor supplies in the mail from Rachel! Thank you so much. I can't wait to dive in. * I received many cards and notes from several of you. Thank you!!! * Millie, Ryan and I ran into listener, Donna, at Russell's. So lovely to see you! * Last weekend Riley came for a sleepover Saturday night. On Sunday, we picked up Aila and checked out one of her favorite antique stores and had a lot of fun browsing. * Dan invited my Dad, Tom and Oisin for dinner at The Snug. * Megg, Hattie and I went to see Peter Pan in Boston.

Quote of the Week “Departure of a year welcomes so many new memories” ― Munia Khan ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 289 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 * Some Years Later * Knitting in Passing * Crafty Adventures * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Content Note: I start the episode by sharing news that most of you probably already know but in case not, will set the tone for the rest of the episode. After 3 long years battling Stage 4 Lung Cancer- we lost my Mom, Diane, on New Year's Day. I share a bit more of the story in the Life in Focus segment, but there are small moments peppered throughout so if death and loss is a difficult topic for you right now, that's ok. I just wanted to give a heads up. If this isn't the episode for you, we'll catch you in the next one. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wintermint Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Peace & Light Mitts * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway * Pattern: Soccer Mitts by Erica Lueder. Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry. * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows * Cast on with 56 sts like socks. * Gave to Mom for Christmas. She only ended up wearing them a few times but she loved them very much.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: 1st sock done. 2nd is beyond the heel.

Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks * Yarn: Freckled Whimsy * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Riley knit a lot on these! * The 1st sock is beyond the heel.

From the Armchair The Life Impossible by Matt Haig- 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. Some Years Later Wearing mostly Mom's handknits because I was there and didn't have all of my own to choose from. * I wore some of her socks especially when we ended up sleeping in the family room and it was chilly and I couldn't leave her alone. * Mom's blue Camp out fingerless mitts (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2021 * Mom's Shift Cowl out of my handspun (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2022 * Mom's Carbeth Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page link) - finished night before Rhinebeck in 2023 (while in Vegas)

Knitting in Passing * Millie loved her lipstick and nail polish amigurumi. * Hattie didn't get her Christmas gifts until after Miles' Baptism on 1/12- "be off you boring socks" and threw socks across the room and immediately put them on and was showing them off. It was very dramatic and adorable. * Laura sent me a text of her friend Arielle wearing the socks I knit her. You can find the Ravelry Project Page here. * Laura and I went back to my house one day to collect some things and Riley asked me to bring ALL THE KNITTING, so I grabbed a ton of stuff. She opened every single project bag and in the end still decided to knit on the Freckled Whimsy advent socks

Crafty Adventures * We printed almost 400 photos for 11 posters for the funeral home. We broke out the scrapbook supplies and tape gun which I can't believe Laura didn't steal because after an initial skepticism she and Jenny were very into it. Megg, Oisin and Riley were huge helps and had a lot of fun. * Megg and Laura searched house for memoriabilia stuff to make 3 displays for funeral home- Red Sox & reselling, Christmas and Wiz of Oz. Incredible. Funeral home did it just as well or even better. * Megg made these Sox and Bruins "tickets" on Canva

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Tune in to see if you won our Quarter 3 Challenge sponsored by FanGirl Fibers.
• Official Sponsor for Q4: Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details.
• Tune in to see if you won a December participation prize.
• Mary's Commentator Updates
• I just finished a sweater--my first big project of the PSP. It took me months and it feels like a great accomplishment. Plus it is enough yards to qualify for a blitz! This got me thinking about blitzes and wondering how the pigskin partiers are doing with blitzes this year. When I just looked, players had already submitted for 202 blitzes this year! Amazing! But even more amazing are a handful of what I am calling super-blitzers!
• 2 players have already completed 6 blitzes so far this year! Can you believe it?
• Spottydogknits finished two sweaters, one cardigan, a vest, a shawl and a scarf. Their Winterwald shawl is particularly pretty. It looks like a lot of fun to knit with a variety of mosaic colorwork.

• Purplemomz has completed 4 blankets! Two were knit and two were crocheted along with two cardigans! I really like their two rainbow ripple blankets--it is so fun to see how the same pattern works up in different yarn. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/PurpleMomz/rainbow-ripple-baby-blanket-3 https://www.ravelry.com/projects/PurpleMomz/rainbow-ripple-baby-blanket-4

• In addition to these super-blitzers, 3 players have completed 5 blitzes and 3 more have completed 3! But don't be dismayed if you are a mere mortal like me--The best thing about the PSP is that you can make whatever you want (as much or as little as you have time for). Wishing you all a very happy new year!

Life in Focus Tune in to hear the last of my Mom's story. I also reviewed my word for 2024, Heart, my goals and my 24 for 2024 list. On a Happy Note * Seeing a local production of Pippin and introducing it to Riley. * Seeing Hattie in Funky Nutcracker & her winter dance recital. Check out Day 14 of Vlogmas for more. * Riley took her first solo drive as a licensed driver, made us breakfast and braided my hair. Later that day, friends surprised my Mom by caroling. Check out this video for more. Oisin got his license the following Saturday. Mom was so proud of both of them. * Silly moment putting TJ's gummy mustaches on our faces. Mom even got in on the action resting it on her oxygen tube and giving crazy eyes for a photo. * The Christmas eve cling wrap game that my cousin Lea hosted. You can see it at the end of my Vlogmas Day 24 video * Fun Christmas morning with G & Z who enjoyed the power wheels Jeep. Doing puzzles with G while Z played the piano. * Low key Christmas afternoon at my parents'. At one point Mom got confused and said we were at a wedding so that turned into a running joke all day. My cousin Jenny, mom's Goddaughter, came over for a bit and showed Mom the video that over 40 people sent in clips for. She said it was her fav Christmas gift. * Laura, whose timing is impeccable and who was everything I needed during the hardest time. * Shopping with friends to find attire for Mom's funeral. * Conor led the kids in singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow at mom's services and our friend Michael Hammond led a group singing Seasons of Love to finish the service at the Cemetery. My cousin Rita Marie sang at funeral mass. * Folks flew in from 12 states to attend which was lovely but also it got crazy once we realized we had way more people coming than would fit in he luncheon venue we talked to. Dad said it was like the Jerry Lewis telethon w/ everyone making phone calls trying to find a new venue. By the next morning, we found a place that worked, visited and picked out the menu by that night. * As ever, this segment is meant to focus on the highlights. Not the lowlights of which there have been many. Grief sucks. Its hard, but we also got 68 beautiful years w/ my Mom- and we lived it up royally in the last 3 since she got sick. We'll always more time but I don't have any regrets and that's something to be truly grateful for. * Miles' Baptism. It was a beautiful service with brunch after at Conor & Carly's. * Just before Christmas, we gave away $10k in FearLESS Living Fund scholarships to 2 gentlemen the Blind Center of Nevada. Friends attended and sent us videos. Just incredible. I hope it helps to really give them a leg up this year.

Quote of the Week "There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love." Washington Irving ------ Thank you for tuning in. Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 288 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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 * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cold, Cold Heart Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway * Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks * Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues * Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.

Millie's Christmas Makeup * Patterns from Etsy by Tugs & Stitches: Crochet Makeup Bundle Pattern: $15 Crochet Pattern * Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic Yarns * Hooks: C & D (2.75 & 3.25 mm)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wintermint Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Working on both socks. First one is beyond the heel. Second one is ready for the heel.

Moosonee Sweater * Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website. * Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon * Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm) * Pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one of Megg's: Ravelry link).

103 Hat * Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde. $5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts * Yarn: Malabrigo Rios (worsted) in 845 Cirrus Gray * Needles: US 5 & US 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Peace & Light Mitts * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway * Pattern: Soccer Mitts by Erica Lueder. Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry. * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows * Cast on with 56 sts like socks.

Brainstorming Calendula Christmas Quilt * Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova * Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) was Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge! Tune in to see if you're the winner! Our Official Sponsor for Q3 (December) is Fangirl Fibers. Check out this Ravelry thread for details about the Colorwork challenge.
• Commentator Mary Klute's report- CONTAINS RAVELRY LINKS🙂

This week, I wandered over to the end zone dance thread to take a peek at some of the beautiful projects folks have finished in the last month or so. Lots of players are double-dipping--that is, making projects that count for both the pigskin party and another make along! KnitsandReads, oneyarn, Sandyrlevin all participated in the Arne & Carlos Christmas Stocking MKAL. Their finished objects are beautiful! Sandyrlevin even completed two! * https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/676-700#676 * https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/676-700#680 * https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/701-725#713

foryouandyarn finished an amazing crochet blanket for the Scheepjes Festival of Lights CAL...it is so intricate and with a beautiful rainbow of colors. Definitely go check it out! https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/726-750#740 michembry finished a project for the indie gift along--the radvent cowl. It is so pretty with nice cheery warm-toned colors. Perfect for a cold winter's day. https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/751-775#761 Of course, many players are participating in the December Mystery Gnome KAL from PSP-sponsor Imagined Landscapes, but we'll have to wait a bit longer to see those FOs! Finally, a few players are double-dipping with other KALs for the Q3 colorwork challenge--I think that would actually be a triple-dip--three ways to win prizes for one project! VTKimmyKim and Cherlynpickering are participating in the "A Very Merry MKAL," which is a mystery colorwork cowl challenge. LauraKnitsPA and tanksoup are participating in the "Step into Christmas MKAL," which is a mystery colorwork socks challenge. I think all this double and triple dipping is a great motivator to be extra productive during the PSP! Events * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: January 19 & March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston * Check out my 2024 Vlogmas Playlist on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

Contest, News & Notes Cancer unit where my mom stayed is always looking for donations of adult hats if you're looking for a place to donate. Reach out to me and I'm happy to coordinate. Life in Focus 24 for 2024 list updates * Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy DONE * Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 53 as of 12/11 * Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun- Dan's citrus hat * Knit/crochet myself a new sweater Silverlining

On a Happy Note * Haircut & color with Erika * Visiting with Julie and Chris who came to visit from Ohio * 80 min massage and running into my trainer from my former gym * Visiting with my cousins- Joanie, Nancy, Paul, Colleen and Erin * House clean out with Aila and Ois * Savers with Riley and Aila. * Hattie in Frozen Jr- Patrons, check out your feed for a private video of all of Hattie's highlights in the show. * Productive and successful software integration.

Quote of the Week It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive... It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away. -Oriah, The Invitation ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 287 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: * Life in Focus * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Knitting in Passing * KAL News * Events * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Irocknits Designs, Mandi's Makings and Stitched by Jessalu Life in Focus Join in to hear the latest updates about my Mom's cancer journey Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Owen'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Peace & Light Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows- Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks * Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues * Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.

Cold, Cold Heart Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway * Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Bee Stacking Toy * Pattern: Bee Stacking Toy by Elisa Sartori. $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy * Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Black & Sunsoaked (yellow) * Hook: H (5.0 mm)

Wintermint Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Moosonee Sweater * Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website. * Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon * Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm) * Pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one of Megg's: Ravelry link).

Knitting in Passing * Knitting in Ambulance with Mom. Nicole, EMT, learned to crochet a year ago and showed me all sorts of photos of the blankets and sweaters she's made! * When we got home, Megg was there hanging out with Dan and Laura getting things ready for Mom to come home. She was tinking part of Miles' Christmas stocking because she messed up letter. Then Riley wanted to learn colorwork, so Megg was reading the chart and Riley was knitting. Win win! * Megg joined our last Patreon Zoom. She was working on crafts for upcoming Frozen Jr which she's dir/choreo. with some help from Dan- and reworking another colorwork chart for a stocking. Riley joined for a bit too which was fun! + Nicole sent Riley an advent! We are SOOO grateful. Thanks again!

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge!
• Our Official Sponsor for Q3 (December) is Fangirl Fibers. Check out this Ravelry thread for details about the Colorwork challenge.
• Commentator Mary Klute's report- CONTAINS RAVELRY LINKS🙂

This month, pigskin partiers have been getting really creative with buttons, thanks to our quarter 2 challenge sponsored by twin mountain handcrafts. I've seen lots of different varieties of ponytail/messy bun hats. Our umpire socalknitgirl, was the first to post one of these in the Q2 thread and it looks great! You can also check out some other examples by skymama09, fldhckygrl, stitchintime82, and Aliceortega Cowls have been another popular option. A few people have made the supine cowl. Check out the finished projects by hawkeyegirl3, ronnale, and jeanscully. I always think it is fun to see how different a pattern can look when worked up in different color combinations. Speaking of cowls, kikukat's deco fan cowl is absolutely beautiful! What a cool pattern and her color choices were spot on! Players thought of a lot of other creative ways to use buttons this month! I've seen two emotional support chickens so far with button embellishments (kimbuktu7 and heelsknitter). scitchr made an adorable Santa Clause Doll (with removable clothes! impressive!). And lmecoll and ladida2u embellished their gnomes with buttons! I encourage you all to head on over to the Quarter 2 thread to check out these amazing finished objects along with many others! Events * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: January 19 & March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston * I'm going to plan to record at least some Vlogmas videos, depending on how the next few weeks go. Any requests of things you want to see?

On a Happy Note * Megg and I went to see a local production of Cabaret. * Laura flew in to visit! * We saw Oisin in his high school's production of Hadestown. He was fantastic! Before the show, Laura and I picked up Millie and met Megg Hattie and Eme for dinner at the Cottage. * Millie slept over and made us pancakes for breakfast. * We hit a local craft fair that's become a tradition for us. Liz joined us too. I bought some beautiful pottery- a mug, 2 bowls and a planter. * I've been wearing my Silverlining sweater non-stop! I love that it matches earrings Eme made me. * Thanksgiving at my cousin Susan's. * Funny story- Mom wanting to get the kids ready in the middle of the night. She just needed toilet paper and wall paper! * So grateful for Laura coming and just being here to support me. I have some great friends, so blessed but she's defintely one of the best.

Quote of the Week There are unheralded tipping points, a certain number of times that we will unlock the front door of an apartment. At some point you were closer to the last time than you were to the first time, and you didn’t even know it. You didn’t know that each time you passed the threshold you were saying good-bye. –COLSON WHITEHEAD Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 286 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 * Knitting in Passing * In My Travels * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fangirl Fibers, Love in Stitches & Woolen Women Fibers Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Silverlining Sweater * Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry * Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Size B: 12 inches underarm to body. 40 inches around. I thought I was getting 18 sts/4 inches but I got 19, so it is 40 inches not 42 inches around. * I was thrilled to meet Peggy from Junction Fiber Mill at Fiber Festival of New England. They shared a clip of my video on their podcast which you can find here.

Welcome to Litchfield Hat * Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page)- Into the Whirled; 2 braids Texel & BFL Tussah Silk in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway + Traveler colorway on Cheviot base to make a 3 ply yarn * Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Vegas Baby Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink

Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Peace & Light Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows

Dirty Crayon Box Socks * Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks * Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues * Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.

Cold, Cold Heart Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway * Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * Bel Canto by Ann Patchett. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. (read in paperback in 2008). I listened to this in prep for the Bad on Paper Podcast Book Club Episode * Here One Moment by Liane Morriarty. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Watching: * The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox (Netflix)- 3 parts. * The Diplomat (Season 2) on Netflix- 6 episodes. * Santa Tell Me (Hallmark)

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 of how Dan bailed me out of a knitting emergency and Riley sent me photos of her progress on her Riley Rose Cowl- a free pattern by me- available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts In My Travels Riley & I attended Fiber Festival of New England- check out our vlog video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Met up with Michelle (chellescraps) and her friends in the morning. Great to see Lisa- who met us at Rhinebeck after following mom's Crispina Scrapbox challenge project! Find a photo of mom in that outfit in this Instagram post. It was great to see Jen, Carlos, Aurora and Zelda around lunch time,vAmy from Ross Farm & Jess from Stitched by Jessalu . 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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Tune in to see if you're the Q1 Challenge Winner (hint- the winner posted this blog post about her project) or if you won an October Participation Prize.
• Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge!

Commentator Update We are 10 weeks into the NFL season (and our knit a long) so I thought it would be fun to take a look at the scoreboard to see if any players had completed 10 or more projects...that is, averaging at least one project per week. I was stunned. Over 35 players have completed 10 or more projects! Leading the way is player eyenowhour who has completed 27 projects--including 5 shawls and 12 baby garments! Impressive! But don't be dismayed if you can't imagine being as productive as eyenowhour! The great thing about the PSP is you can craft as much or as little as you want and still have a chance to win! Events * Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: January 19 & March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA * New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston

Contest, News & Notes My friend Linda is looking for donations of 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 the First Church in Woburn, MA. 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 also talked about Socks for Sam. Check out their website. You can raise awareness for VWM by knitting a sock using #SocksForSam and tagging @Knitsocksforsam. Life in Focus I shared some updates about Mom's new cancer treatments and recent hospital stays. On a Happy Note * I'm finding it very hard to be happy after the US election, but I try hard to look for these happy notes. As Gretchen Rubin reminded us on a recent episode of the Happier Podcast it is not selfish or unimportant to look for ways to be happy even when and especially when life feels really hard. When we are happier, we can do more to assert our values in the world and do hard things, so I started this segment with that reminder. * Knitting on Hattie's socks and Sue's Instagram live on the day after the election helped me through a very difficult day. * Halloween! * Leaning into connecting with my people- whether that's work, friends, family, knitting community. Its small but its powerful. * During Mom's first infusion, we played UNO. Mom slaughtered us! Dad got up and jokingly said he was going to smother her with a pillow before she could beat us any further and she was laughing so hard she almost offed herself! That was a bit of levity we all needed that night. * We watched G&Z while their parents went out for their anniversary and again on Veteran's Day. * Date night with Dan between Mom's treatments. I had a delicious pumpkin beer- Night Shift Pumpkin Piescraper Pumpkin Pie Ale. * I went to see & Juliet with Megg, Terri, Liz and Riley. Then I had a sleepover at my brothers where Riley, Millie and I inadvertently had a matching PJs night.

Quote of the Week “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” ― G.K. Chesterton ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 285 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Brainstorming * From the Armchair * Crafty Adventures * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Cniotáil Láimhe Designs on Ravelry, Area 51 Fibres, Stitched by Jessalu & Paper Daisy Creations on Ravelry. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Musselburgh * Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) * Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Note- the pattern just got some updates * About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Owen'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: 2 pieces done, seamed up. Cuff is done and steamed. Snowman applique pieces finished. * Sidetracked by all the mojo

Vegas Baby Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: cast on both socks using 2 50g cakes. Sock 2 has a heel. Sock 2 is almost ready for a heel * About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink

Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes. The first sock is finished. The second sock is beyond the heel.

Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks * Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues * Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting. * I measured Hattie's foot recently when she tried on this WIP. I need a 7-7.5 inch foot. Toe will be 12 rounds, which is about an inch of knitting, so Ii knit a little more than 6 inches before starting the toe. * Progress: First sock finished.

Better Waverly Cardigan * Pattern: Better Waverly by Taylor E Owen. $8 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry. * Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Brown Heather Colorway * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the Pattern: I saw Taylor talk about this pattern in her recent YouTube Video. * Progress: Still working on the raglan increases

Silverlining Sweater * Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry * Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Size B (because working with fabric that has about 18 inches over 4 inches) * Progress: several inches into the body (put on hold) and about half way through the first sleeve.

Brainstorming * Bee Stacking Toy- Ravelry link for $5 crochet pattern (also available for free on this website)

From the Armchair * Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle Cosimano. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Gilmore Girls: The Official Knitting Book: Knit Your Way Through Stars Hollow and Beyond by Tanis Gray- available on Amazon. Link to patterns on Ravelry. + Be sure to check out: A Thousand Yellow Daisies by Beth Leath- Ravelry Pattern Link + I also like the Daily News Hat by Alina Appasova- Ravelry Pattern 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 * Dan went to a Better Off Dead movie party. I helped him make pig ears to sew onto a chef's hat (he did the sewing). * He also made slime (with raisins because "you like raisins') and lots of other props from the movie.

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post. Winner will be announced in the next episode.
• Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge!

Events * Fiber Festival of New England- November 2 & 3- Mom, Riley and I are going on Sunday November 3rd * Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

Contest, News & Notes Check out this article if you're an Apple user who plans to become a member of any new Patreon communities to avoid this 30% fee to Apple. You can check out my Patreon page here. Life in Focus I gave a quick update on Mom who will be starting a new cancer treatment on 11/1/24. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, please. On a Happy Note * Outing with Mom to get eyelash extensions & Savers. * Laura's visit: Matching PJs- Cuddl Duds Coffee PJs from Kohls, My first trip to Costco! + Grand Opening of Dance Legacy Arts + Hattie preview of Frozen Jr. Movies (Substance= terrible) + dinner with Megg (lovely)

• Ryan and Nicki visit with Mom, Dad and me after Rhinebeck & they brought me a skein of yarn!
• 2 massages in 1 week (24 for 2024 list)
• Dan and I went to vote together last Saturday morning, then I headed over to a local Sample Sale, knitting on my Silverlining sweater while I waited and listening to others local gossip. I got a ton of Christmas shopping done, then I met up with my mom's friends Patrick and Szymon in from Arizona. Mom, our friend Sharon (in from CT) and our cousin Linda (who I just found out listens- HI), met us for lunch! Liz came over and we watched Little Women (2019 version) which I hadn't seen and was on our to watch list. (3 of 5 movies for my 24 in 2024 list).
• I visited my parents on Sunday. Millie and Garret were there. We took a walk to neighborhood nearby for Mom's PT for the day.
• Group text with friends who went to VT- about our sweaters and other adjacent things. Lots of fun and motivation.
• Monday night dinner with my parents, Patrick and Szymon.
• Early morning walk to local State park. beautiful sunrise and golden leaves around the reservoir. Need to do this more often.

Quote of the Week It doesn’t matter how strong your opinions are. If you don’t use your power for positive change, you are indeed part of the problem. -Coretta Scott King Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 284 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 * Some Years Later * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Woolen Women Fibers, Bronwyn the Brave Designs & Chit Chat Knits Designs Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Farmhouse Pumpkin * Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Rust Colorway * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Rest Relax Recharge Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn: Plush Sock in the Rest Relax Recharge Colorway (from the March 2023 Yarnable Box) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Playlist on YouTube * Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN using my Affiliate Link

Urth Yarn Turn a Square Hat * Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($5 pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed website) * Yarn: Urth Yarn Uneek Worsted * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing. US 7 (4.5 mm) for body. * Ravelry Project Page * Started August 5th but never talked about on the podcast. * Purchased during Cape and South Shore Yarn Haul a year or two ago. * Ended up being about 48g. Still have about 56 g leftover so I will make another.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Owen'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: 2 pieces done, seamed up and working on the cuff. I need to finish the cuff, create the appliqué, sew on the name the hook.

Peace & Light Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows- Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor * Purchased from Michele at VT Sheep and Wool. Wound up the yarn on Sue’s ballwinder the next morning and knit most of the leg of the first sock on a boat on Lake Champlain with Sue & Dave Stokes, Paige and Paul Miller and Rachel!! * Woolens & Nosh is a Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor

Dirty Crayon Box Socks * Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * I bought this yarn at a festival a long time ago. Speckly with an overall purple tone. * Progress: cuff done and a few inches of the first leg.

Dream Big Socks * Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Strong DK (75% SW Merino/ 25% Nylon) in the Dream Big Colorway (Fundraiser for our FearLESS Living Fund) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 48 sts cuff down * Cast on in June but haven't talked about on the pod before. leg of the first sock is nearly done: * About the colorway: larger stripes of blue, green, orange. Smaller stripes of orange, purple, gray. Fibernymph Dye Works is a Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor

Vegas Baby Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Welcome to Litchfield Hat * Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page)- Into the Whirled; 2 braids Texel & BFL Tussah Silk in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway + Traveler colorway on Cheviot base to make a 3 ply yarn * Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * I fell in love with the Love Today Cowl by Knit Sisu that I saw at a VT Sheep and Wool. I found some of my handspun (Ravelry page here) that I thought would work, wound it up and then did a wraps per inch test and its too thin. I went back to the handspun bin, and found another skein (Ravelry page) and now I'm thinking they'd be nice in the Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowy (Ravelry | website). * The goal of this cowl was for a potential Christmas gift even though I'd like it for me, but I think with these 2 skeins of handspun I want to keep it, so we'll see if I cast these on now or let it marinate, because I also want to cast on a sweater for me, and more socks and hats for Christmas gifts. * I swatched for a sweater with yarn from VT Sheep and Wool. More on that next time.

From the Armchair The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier. 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. Some Years Later I've been wearing lots of woolies lately as have my loved ones! * Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan (Pigskin Sponsor)- Ravelry Project Page * Dad wore his Musselburgh to Topsfield Fair- Ravelry Project Page * Megg also wore Nanaimo Cardigan to Mamma Mia- Ravelry Project Page * I also have 2 Nanaimos that I've been wearing- the original one I knit is in earthy oatmealy tones and the other in gray- Ravelry Project Page 1 & Ravelry Project Page 2 here. * I'm also wearing a lot of wool socks, especially with wool clogs. I need more supportive clogs for walking. Any suggestions for me?

In My Travels * Check out my VT Sheep and Wool Vlog Video on YouTube. Patrons, check out the video linked in your feed for more photos and no ads. * I talked about the following makers: Woolens & Nosh, Wooly Thistle, KnitSisu, Junction Fiber Mill, Jennifer Steingass's Silverlining Sweater- available on Ravelry.

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post
• Q2- November- sneak peek- sponsor= Twin Mountain Handcrafts- using buttons!
• Commentator Mary Klute's report:
• The first quarter challenge has really inspired pigskin partiers! There has been a lot of chatter in the huddle thread about the new techniques folks are planning to meet the requirements of the challenge!
• Some players are planning to tackle knitting techniques that they have never tried before like half fisherman's rib, colorwork, intarsia, magic loop, a new cast on or bind off, and brioche.
• Others are trying out a new tool like an i-cord maker or a new knitting app
• Others are trying new kinds of projects: a garment with lace down the side, joggers, knitting a shawl for the first time, knitting a shawl with an unusual construction, and colorwork socks
• A couple of people have mentioned joining mystery knit a longs for the challenge
• Others have mentioned using varieties of yarn they've never used before like boucle yarn or non-superwash wool.
• And a finally a bunch of players are planning crochet projects--some who have never successfully crocheted before and others who want to grow their crochet skills by moving beyond granny squares or learning how to join crocheted pieces.
• This challenge is really motivating players to step out of their comfort zones! If you still haven't decided what to do for the quarter 1 challenge--head on over to the huddle thread for some inspiration!

Events * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * Fiber Festival of New England- November 2 & 3- Mom, Riley and I are going on Sunday November 3rd * Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

Contest, News & Notes My friend Linda is looking for donations of 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 the First Church in Woburn, MA. 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 2024 Word of the Year- Heart 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 Updates * Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy (1 at Oasis in July, 1 scheduled Oct had to move. scheduled 2 more) * Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 45 as of now * Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun in progress * Knit/crochet myself a new sweater swatched * Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress * Try a new local restaurant - Lolita (want one even MORE local)

On a Happy Note * Mamma Mia + dinner at Ruka beforehand * October 4: we celebrated my dad's birthday with an evening cookout and swim! Dad left the pool open while mom was in the hospital, and heated it back up to a warm 88 degrees for us to all enjoy one last swim. * VT Sheep and Wool!!! * Mom, Dad, my Uncle Bob and Aunt Wendy all went to the Topsfield Fair. Beautiful quilts, handknits, emotional support chickens. Live Laugh Love cross stitch- live, laugh, love. Mom got some blue tinsel in her hair! Adorable. * Saw everyone's photos of the Northern Lights on Facebook on the way home so I had to take a few! * Baby Jane- adapted for the stage by my Mom's friend Michael Hammond for Company Theatre- Marybeth in it.

Quote of the Week Bob Dylan on the advice his father gave him: "Even if you don't have all the things you want, be grateful for the things you don't have that you don't want." ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 283 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 * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitchin with Yarn, winemakerssister, Yumi Yarns & Fibernymph Dye Works Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins LFA Helical Socks * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway & a Mystery Colorway (both 50g skeins: 75% SW Merino, 25% Nylon). Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Cast on in June 2023. Finished September 5. Forgot to share in the last episode.

Frozen Shake Cozy * Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts * Yarn: worsted crochet cotton * Hooks: F (3.75mm) & G (4.0mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Yarn- mystery blue cotton on a cone that was from Aunt Rachel's stash. * Made for mom during September hospital stay when the dietitians started making frozen shakes to get nutrients into her.

Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin * Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin. $3 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Free version available here. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Yarn gifted to me by my friend Heather. We became friends through the dancing school we went to. Her mother was the stage manager and my mom was the house manager for our recitals. We've all know each other since I was 12. Heather's mother Rita passed away a few years ago. When Heather heard my mom was in the hospital she dropped off a care package at the dancing school- chemo caps for Mom and yarn from her mom's stash for me!

Rita's pumpkins * Pattern: Pumpkin by June Gilbank. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Free version available here. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 5 finished * Yarn is definitely 1970s/1980s squeeky acrylic, so not my favorite to work with, but it feels great to put it to good use and to bring a bit of life to Rita's old stash.

Farmhouse Pumpkin * Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Worked in the round. Does use FP & BP HDC which I learned in my crochet cables class at Staci's! Love the look of this. Worked up in an evening of TV.

Pumpkin Patch Cup Cozy * Pattern: Pumpkin Patch Cup Cozy by Kylee Keller. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & this blog. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway, Knit Picks Brava Worsed in the Dublin colorway (green) & mystery brown acrylic yarn from stash. * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * The pattern calls for thicker yarn and a larger hook than I had. It also calls for what's essentially a 1x1 ribbed look, but I liked the look of the ribbing from the front/back post crochets on the Farmhouse Pumpkins, so I used that pattern instead. I used the stitch count from my Ball Band with a Twist pattern (available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts).

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Farmhouse Pumpkin * Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. * Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Rust Colorway * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * I initially grabbed the yarn from Heather and threw some in my bag for the hospital and rest (still in its plastic Thom McCann shoe store bag lol into my craft room). I though the other skein of Wintuk was red- but when I went down there again, I realized it was rust! and the pumpkin madness continued! * Cast on Saturday 9/28 watching Season 2 of the OA with Dan on Netflix.

Static Musselburgh * Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) * Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Note- the pattern just got some updates * About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn. * Progress: 15 inches. I will plan to add one more inch and then work the decreases.

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

• Progress: I finished 9 my July squares & seamed them. I started my August squares and have 1 package waiting for me to open- the last batch.

Stranger Things 2 Socks * Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party. I didn't get to join in the round until that night, but now its well underway. * About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red. * Progress- My first Pigskin Cast on using Snack Shack Sponsor yarn. I'm almost to heel of the first sock.

Rest Relax Recharge Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn: Plush Sock in the Rest Relax Recharge Colorway (from the March 2023 Yarnable Box) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Cast on both cuffs so I can try to work these up quickly. They'll match some of Mom's go-to pjs. * Cute acrylic Pigskin markers from Twin Mountain Handcrafts on them. Thanks ladies for sending them to me. I love them.

Brainstorming * Making the pumpkins has me itching to make toys. It would be great to make some for the little kiddos for Christmas. * I need to start the Christmas stocking for my cousin Colleen's little boy Owen so I have that ready for Thanksgiving. * The pumpkins also have me longing to crochet some hats.

From the Armchair 1. Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead by Elle Cosimano. 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 * Talked to several nurses and other staff about my knitting and crochet while in with Mom. One PCA learned to knit before but said she never really full understood it. I told her I'd be happy to meet her for coffee and a lesson anytime. * The staff all oooh and ahhh over Mom's handknit socks. * One morning when Mom was really out of it from anesthesia the day before, I was putting on her handknit socks and I had them totally crooked, heel on the side, and she was busting my chops. I told her "hey, I said I was good at knitting them, not putting them on!" and she insisted on taking a photo for me to share! Little glimpses of her coming back to her real self were great- even if it was going to be a bit more time before she was back to normal. * I recently saw a notice in my town's Facebook page that the senior center is looking for yarn they can use to make things to sell at holiday's craft fairs. PSA: even if your community hasn't reached out- see if they need yarn so you can clear out anything you don't need and know it will go to good use.

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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• 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).

• Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post

• Commentator Mary Klute's report- One of the best things about the pigskin party is the community! It is so much fun to get to know other players and the annual Tailgate Talk is a great way to do that. It looks like this year's Tailgate Talk was a great success--at the time of this report nearly 200 players had submitted for their Tailgate Talk points! But players aren't just chatting--they are also finishing projects! So far there are 307 finished projects on the scoreboard, including 10 blitzes! And it looks like players are really using sponsor products to rack up some extra points. So far, finished projects have earned over 50 points on average by using sponsor products! Symama09 is a great example of how to really maximize those sponsor points. She earned 280 sponsor points on her recently finished gnome by using 2 proshop exclusive products, three proshop non-exclusive products, and two products from snack shack sponsors! Her gnome is super cute too- check out the Ravelry Project Page here! Finally, don't forget to spread the word about the PSP! You can join 14 players who have been earning points by drafting players!
• Tune in to hear if you're a September Participation Prize winner. I will be in touch with all winners via email.

Events * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 5 & 6, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know! Contest, News & Notes My friend Linda is looking for donations of 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 the First Church in Woburn, MA. 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 Update on Mom: Diane is still in the hospital after being admitted on 9/12. * Attempts at the bedside to put filler into her right vocal cord to bring back her voice didn't work, so they brought her down to the OR and did the procedure there. She has so much more volume now! She doesn't notice a huge difference but we all do. * We thought about 2 weeks in that she'd be going home, bags were all packed and they decided to do a last minute CT which showed spots in her lungs. We were told it wasn't cancer but it took until Thursday to do a Bronchoscopy to reveal the cause of that issue- 2 different bacterial infections. Of course at first we were told it was just 1 and she could go home on oral antibiotics. 10 minutes later the other was found and now she has to stay for at least a few days of IV antibiotics.

How to make it fun in the hospital * Get to know your caregivers; find out what you have in common. It makes it more interesting if you can actually have a bond with the people you're interacting with on a regular basis. * Get some new pajamas- especially if that's all you get to wear. If your family can stay over with you- get matching PJs. It's a little thing but it can make it feel a bit more special. * Find ways to make the little things into bigger things. Our first matching PJ night, we wore flamingo pajamas. In advance of that, I purchased flamingo decorations at the party store and bought light up necklaces, straws & ice cubes to turn the evening into a party. * The next night, we planned to have an ice cream sundae party. The unit always has ice cream on hand. Mom ordered a peach puree from the daily menu and I saved M&Ms that my cousin Jenny brought and we had an ice cream party. As it turns out, I spotted fireworks out the windows of the elevator lobby that night and was able to bring Mom over to see. Made what could have been an average night - or a depressign one because we thought she'd be home, more entertaining. * Have folks send in mail and bring it to the patient! Chellescraps- Michelle, sent a bouquet of paper flowers (I believe they're from freshcutpaper)- my brother's family also got her one early on in her stay (these are great because, you may not know this but some patients cannot have fresh cut flowers- burn patients, some immunocompromised patients etc); Sewrunknit, Suzanne, sent a funny card, ElsaandEm, Emily, sent a handknit/embroidered flower pin, my cousin Jenny brought a WonderWoman balloon and ironically on the same day, a friend dropped off a Wonder Woman pillow at the house (great to use to push into Mom's side when she had pain) * Ask friends and family to text photos and videos! Hattie sent Mom the cutest video of a little dance/kartwheel which was so fun.

On a Happy Note * Sharpie Rollerball Pens (.5mm)- available on Amazon. The only thing that would make it better is if it was a click top, but I'm totally willing to live without the convenience. * Trader Joe's Honey Hydration Day & Night Cream Duo. $7.99 (dupe for Farmacy Honey Halo, which I've never tried) * One day when my SIL brought Riley, Garret and Millie in to see Mom at the hospital, Millie said she wanted to see my office, so since Mom was still at her MRI, we took a detour. Millie did a full on simulation of me at work, drinking selzter, typing on my computer etc. * My parents celebrated their 47th Wedding Anniversary. Thankfully Dan had more brain cells and time than the rest of us and got Mom flowers on his way in to visit. * I picked up my grandmother to bring her in for a visit with my Mom. We had a lovely visit. * My cousin Sabrina came up from Tennessee with her girlfriend Maria for a visit with my Mom. It was so great catching up with them. * Watching The American President. I love that movie. Mom and I had been talking about it in the hospital that day- specifically the line from Michael J. Fox (as Lewis Rothschild) "I tell any girl I'm going out with to assume that all plans are soft until she receives confirmation from me thirty minutes beforehand." Robin McCall: "And they find this romantic?" Lewis Rothschild: "Well, I say it with a great deal of charm." * I was able to use our John Deere tractor/backhoe to free myself when a tree fell in our driveway and I was trapped. Dan was in Vermont and I thought I'd have to call my nephew Oisin but it didn't come to that! * I scored a $300 ski bag with a charging set-up for boot warmers for $15 at a yard sale this weekend. * Trader Joe's pumpkin Kringle! with Cinnamon coffee.

Quote of the Week Strive to be whole, not perfect, for in wholeness we embrace both our strengths and our flaws, while in perfection, we lose the beauty of our true selves. -Unknown ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 282 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week’s segments included:

• Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• Knitting in Passing
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Fibernymph Dye Works, BellaFio Yarn

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal
• Hook: 10mm (N/P)
• 96 total hexagons + half hexies to square off the edges.
• Border: 1 round of sc (used nearly 1 skein of yarn), 2 rounds of hdc, 2 rounds of Dc on short sides and sc on long sides
• 4,499 grams used
• 1,728 grams of multi color yarns / around 10 skeins
• 2,771 grams wheat used. / around 16 skeins used
• Total for Stash Dash: 2,567.6 meters

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)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Cast on July 12
• 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.

Stash Dash Update

• Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I competed again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here. Here’s Jasmin’s Spreadsheet.
• My 2024 Stash Dash Total: 12,088
  • 26 projects- 16 knit, 8 crochet, 2 spinning
  • 2 blankets, a cowl, 3 hats, a book holder, a pair of mitts, 11 pairs of socks, 1 Christmas stocking, 2 tops and 4 skeins of yarn
• Jasmin’s total: 29,811 with the meters for a finished spinning project not yet on her spreadsheet. I always knew if she buckled down and finished one of her massive spinning projects she’d annihilate me and she finally did! One of her spinning projects was 23k! Nicely done, friend!! My hat is off to you.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Musselburgh

• Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda’s website)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway
• Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Note- the pattern just got some updates
• About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn. I’m loving how its working up so far.

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
• Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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.
• Progress: I finished 9 my July squares & seamed them. I started my August squares and have 1 package waiting for me to open- the last batch.

Stranger Things 2 Socks

• Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party. I didn’t get to join in the round until that night, but now its well underway.
• About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red.
• Progress- almost to heel of the first sock.

Brainstorming Autumn Doodle Cup Cozy by Jamie Lomax ($2 knitting pattern- Ravelry) . Quick fall colorwork project with DK yarn.

From the Armchair Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Listened to this because I want to watch the Netflix series based on this starring Sarah Chalke & Katherine Heigl

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 During Marta’s visit, the kids turned the living room at my parents’ into a craft room. Millie knit on the hat she’s making for her dad. Riley worked on crochet hexagons for our matching blankets. Roc crocheted on a crab and eventually started a giraffe amigurumi and a baby hat. Riley taught Roc to make a crochet hexagon. Even Max & Garret got in on the action and did some drawing.

One of the first afternoons, we were sitting at the bar at my parents’ pool. Marta was sewing up a hole in Max’s shirt, I was finishing some socks and Roc was crocheting his crab.

Throughout the trip, Roc (age 12) was crocheting constantly- in the car, at the table, at the park, anytime he had a few free minutes. He was incredibly adept at chatting and keeping up with his pattern working in increases and decreases.

We ended up going to 6 craft stores- Plymouth Harbor Knits, Michaels, Joann, The Craft Loft, Hobby Lobby, Gather Here. Roc also got a crochet kit at Dollar Tree (the same dinoaur my niece Aila bought earlier this summer).

We had a campfire at my house one night. Roc, Millie and Hattie spent most of the night crafting in my studio.

We visited my house after kayaking & ice cream one afternoon- Hattie also did a bit of knitting on my Musselburgh hat. I found a few dropped stitches the next time I picked it up but that’s ok.

Crafty Adventures Marta, Roc and I did some resin projects while they were visiting. Roc put resin in the bottom of a small wooden crate and then we worked together on a pumpkin lazy susan.

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
• Official Rules
• Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
  • Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread
  • Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• Playoff Prediction Contest: Check this Ravelry Thread 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).

Stay Tuned for our October Challenge hosted by The Little Wolf Knits.

Commentator Mary:

• The season is off to a great start! The first Monday Night Football game was still on and there were already 18 projects in the end zone dance thread! There were lots of hats and dishcloths, of course, as these are often quick projects. But one player went above and beyond! Shellylynnknits already completed a blitz in 4 days! She crocheted a scrap yarn basket that is super cool! https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Shellylynnknits/scrap-yarn-basket That pattern looks like a really fun idea for using up scraps!
• The September chat thread is in full swing. There are lots of old friends reconnecting after some months away and new players introducing themselves and getting warm welcomes. There is a lot of chatter about life events, plans for pigskin, and an interesting discussion about why people like knitting socks. In addition, if you are a reader or a cook, be sure to check out that Pigskin Book Talk (Ravelry Link) and Pigskin Recipe Ideas (Ravelry Link)! threads as they are quite lively too! Don’t be worried about falling behind on any of these threads…you can jump in at any time!

Events * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) – Sept 12-15, 2024 * Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 * Lambtown, Dixon, CA – Oct 5-6, 2024 * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!

Contest, News & Notes My friend Linda is looking for donations of 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 the First Church in Woburn, MA. 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! This year they’re especially looking for men’s things.

Life in Focus 2024 Word of the Year- Heart

Thank you Emily for sending me a knit & embroidered heart pin! Its so beautiful and it made my day!

Update on Mom:

Mom had a couple good days while Marta was visiting. Grateful we were able to spend time together even when she couldn’t leave the house. The sound of the boys laughing brought her joy.

She had the catheter removed from her lung. Began having throat issues that worsened day after day. On Thursday 9/12 came for scans and chemo, but only had scans and then was admitted. She’s had a whole slew of tests and so far they haven’t found anything wrong which is good news, but we still need to get to the bottom of things.

One bit of good news, she should be having an injection of filler into her paralyzed right vocal cord that will allow her voice to come back.

Ask Me Anything Herdofhills asked about: fall project plans, books, favorite fall recipes

• I am looking forward to: apple picking, apple sauce, wood chopping weekend, oven baked oatmeal (here’s a recipe I like to use), a Better Off Dead movie party,
• I’ve already enjoyed watching Hocus Pocus (1 & 2), pulling out the wool socks and wearing those at night, decorating, overnight oats for breakfast which I tend to eat more in fall/winter. Even better for fall is warm.

Deborahjay- Love is blind UK

• I was watching but got sidetracked with Marta’s visit. For the first time, I found myself fast forwarding through the pre-wedding stuff to hear yes/no. Liked that it seemed like folks were actually there for love and that the cast was far less dramatic than the US participants.

kjkcrochet- I’d love to know a little bit more about your job

• I’m a Project Manager in the Nursing Dept of a big boston hospital, supporting a communication system and other projects thank involve communication, responsiveness (to patients) and technology). Tune in to hear more.

On a Happy Note * Max’s reaction to Plymouth Rock! * Teaching Roc some new crochet stitches and seeing his enthusiasm. He’s definitely my new buddy. My heart almost burst when he sent me a screenshot of his Home Screen- photo of us outside the Craft Loft in Cambridge. * Handpicked sunflowers from my friend Eileen’s garden. * Laser tag * Going on a Duck Tour * 2 whole weeks with Marta. We haven’t been together that long since 1998! And all of the funny moments and inside jokes that come from it. * Connections at work making tough days a little easier.

Quote of the Week Summer ends, and Autumn comes, and he who would have it otherwise would have high tide always and a full moon every night.

~ Hal Borland

——

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 281 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 * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: * Twin Mountain Handcrafts * Irocknits Designs * Thelittlewolfknits * Stitched by Jessalu

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Declan's 70s Socks * Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Seventies Stripes Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Finished August 3rd * Total for Stash Dash: 278.2 meters (304.2 yards)

Log Cabin Mitts * 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) * Ravelry Project Page: * Started July 9. Finished August 7th. * Total for Stash Dash: 115.2 meters

Laura's London Socks * 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) * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * Total for Stash Dash: 272 meters

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: I've finished the heel on the second sock.

LFA Helical Socks * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway & a Mystery Colorway (both 50g skeins: 75% SW Merino, 25% Nylon). Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Cast on in June 2023. * 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. * Dan's Litchfield Hat with Welcome to Litchfield Handspun (Ravelry Project Page) * I'm planning to knit socks for my friend Sheri. * My niece Aila asked for socks for Christmas. She'd like these Daisy Socks- pattern on Ravelry.

From the Armchair * The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * No One Tells You This by Glynnis Macnicol. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * All Fours by Miranda July. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Bitter Blood: A True Story of Southern Family Pride, Madness and Multiple Murder by Jerry Bledsoe. 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 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 * Official Rules * Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) + Find out what Team you're on (Team Chats will open 9/1/24)

• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Being updated regularly so keep checking back.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

A special THANK YOU to our team + Umpire- Wendy- socalknitgirl + Commissioners - Emily- (ElsaandEm)- Llama Conference - Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Conference - Nicole (KnitterNicole)- Sheep Conference

• Commentator- Mary (Maryklute)

• 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:

• October: Thelittlewolfknits
• November: Twin Mountain Handcrafts
• December: Fangirl Fibers
• January: Fibernymph Dye Works

Other current & upcoming events: * Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast * Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 * Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 * Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady * 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. + Discord link: knit girllls discord + Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here. Here's Jasmin's Spreadsheet.

I have 9,273 meters as of August 25. Jasmin is on the board with 5,910 meters Sending much love to Jasmin & Gigi after hearing about Gigi's recent stroke. Events * Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) - Sept 12-15, 2024 * Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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 * Emotional Support Chicken- 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. ~ Tove Jansson ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 280 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 * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Silver Spoon Socks * Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway * 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: 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 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Bobble Border instructions from this blog * 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 * Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($5 pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed website) * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• I didn't fully spin the gray Traveler colorway braid.
• Finished Project- 3 braids of 3 ply yarn: 184g= 252.2 meters (275.9 yards) ~Aran weight
• 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 * Ravelry Project Page * Hook: 9.0 mm (M/N) * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- short stripes (about 3 rounds each) with 3 shades of blue- navy, denim and cornflower plus orange and brown. * Total for Stash Dash: 278.2 meters

Deschain * Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven * Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm) * Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624- Gray. + 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. I should have around 19"
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Total for Stash Dash: 456.5 meters

8,353 meters for Stash Dash Over 4,500 meters added since the last episode! On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Ravelry Project Page: * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming 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. From the Armchair 1. Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 3. I'll Just Be Five More Minutes (and other tales from my ADHD brain) by Emily Farris. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 4. We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 5. Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 6. Feed by M.T. Anderson. Bookshop Affiliate Link (not available). Amazon Affiliate Link. 7. Briefly Perfectly Human by Alua Arthur. 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. 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. And/or email me for details! Other current & upcoming events: * Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast * Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 * Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 * Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady * 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. + Discord link: knit girllls discord + Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here

Events * Flock Fiber Festival- August 9-11 in Seattle, WA * FIber Revival: August 10 in Newbury, MA * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) - Sept 12-15, 2024 * Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 * Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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.” -Emily Dickinson ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 279 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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu

Announcement- I’ll be putting out only 1 episode per month through the summer to keep things manageable.

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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)
• Hooks: H (5.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Bobble Border instructions came from this blog
• Caron Cakes – 1054.6 meters
• Loops & Threads – 130.5 meters
• Meters for Stash Dash- 1,185.10

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 )
• Ravelry Project Page
• Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80’s child loved this one.
• Meters for Stash Dash: 286.3

4 Bowl Savers for Mom

• Pattern: None
• Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in the Seaglass colorway
• Hook: 5.0 mm (H)
• Ravelry Project Page
• I crocheted 2 circles and 2 hexagons for Mom to put between her Pyrex bowls.
• Meters for Stash Dash: 119

Riley’s 16th Birthday Flower Top

• Pattern: Riley found in this TikTok video
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3)
• Ravelry Project Page
• YouTube Video
  • Linked instructions
• Meters for Stash Dash: 872.4 (1.2 skeins)
• I am calling it done but I need Riley to try it on and may need to adjust the neck.

Children of Time 2 Ply Yarn

• Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot in the Children of Time colorway
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Meters for Stash Dash: 285.8

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project

• 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield
• Ravelry Project Page
• Progress: finished the second braid- 4 oz in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway in 70/30 BFL/Tussah Silk
• Up next: spinning 3rd braid- Into the Whirled- The Traveler colorway (medium gray). 4 oz Cheviot

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
• Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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)
• Hook: I (5.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Progress: Nearly done w/ the second Caron cake.
• Bobble Border instructions from this blog

Silver Spoon Socks

• Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway
• 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: 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!

From the Armchair 1. The Nix by Nathan Hill. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 3. One Last Summer by Kate Spencer. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 4. Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan. Bookshop Affiliate Link.Amazon Affiliate Link. 5. Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto. 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 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.

• Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast
• 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
• Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 – September 2
• Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady
• 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.
    • Discord link: knit girllls discord
    • Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here

My total as of this episode: 3,765.2 meters

Events * Flock Fiber Festival– August 9-11 in Seattle, WA * FIber Revival: August 10 in Newbury, MA * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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.

Health Update Video Part 1

Health Update Video Part 2

On a Happy Note * 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.

–May Sarton

——

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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. 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 * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Be Fearless Socks * Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Be FearLESS Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: this self striping colorway is a bright rainbow colorway that's meant to mimic the logo for our FearLESS Living Fund * Meters for Stash Dash: 290.4 meters

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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the Yarn: Speckled colorway with a cream base. Green, gray/black and hot pink colors speckled in. * Meters for Stash Dash: 256 meters

Beer Hat * Pattern: Beer Stein Hat by Lindsay Hoffman (free crochet hat available on this blog) * Yarn: Lion Brand Homespun Yarn- Hepplewhite & Red Heart Super Saver- Gold * Hook: G: 4.25 mm (started with an H but thought the gauge was too large. * Other Materials: 3 Pipe Cleaners * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Riley's 16th Birthday Flower Top * Pattern: Riley found in this TikTok video * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3) * Ravelry Project Page * YouTube Video + Linked instructions

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Hooks: H (5.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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! From the Armchair * One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Wellness by Nathan Hill. 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. 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! KAL News * Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast * 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 * Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 * WIP Bingo with Cerulean Orchid- June 1-30th. (several West Coast US LYSs participating but you can join online too) * Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady * The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. + Discord link: knit girllls discord + Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here

Events * Flock Fiber Festival- August 9-11 in Seattle, WA * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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." Source: A Backward Glance (lightly edited for clarity) Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: H (5.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * I learned about this edge technique on this website.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Riley's 16th Birthday Flower Top * Pattern: Riley found in this TikTok video * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3) * Ravelry Project Page * YouTube Video + Linked instructions

• About the yarn- probably about a sport weight yarn that gradiates through purples, blues and white.
• I'm enjoying this project but it involves a lot of counting on each row so it takes focused time which I haven't had a ton of.
• Working on the Front (or Back): 3 repeats of the pattern = 6 flowers

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the Yarn: Speckled colorway with a cream base. Green, gray/black and hot pink colors speckled in.

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 * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Be Fearless Socks * Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Be FearLESS Colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: this self striping colorway is a bright rainbow colorway that's meant to mimic the logo for our FearLESS Living Fund

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) * Hooks: H (5.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

From the Armchair * Watch Me Disappear by Janelle Brown. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Counting the Cost: A Memoir. by Jill Duggar with Derick Dillard and Craig Borlaise. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * A Funny Story by Emily Henry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Every Summer After by Carley Fortune. 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. KAL News No Splash Pad Party this Summer, but check out these other awesome online events * Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady * 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. + Discord link: knit girllls discord

Events * Webs Fleece Market: May 18 in Northampton, MA (Tent sale May 16-17) * Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: may 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA * Flock Fiber Festival- August 9-11 in Seattle, WA * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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.” ~ Joan Marques Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page

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 (5.5mm) * Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins- I used just shy of 5 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.

Auntie Krissy's Chickens * Pattern: Chicken Family by Kensey Davis ($5 crochet pattern on Etsy) * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Premier Yarns Chunky Parfair in Mushroom, White, Ruby and Mustard. * Ravelry Project Page * Thanks to Riley for joining me to talk about this joint project.

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 Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

Riley's 16th Birthday Flower Top * Pattern: Riley found in this TikTok video * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3) * Ravelry Project Page * YouTube Video + Linked instructions

From the Armchair * Booth by Karen Joy Fowler. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * I'll Be You by Janelle Brown. 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. 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. * Henry David Thoreau Footbridge * Hickory Stick Bookstore * The Washington Food Market * Five Janes (had some cute Gilmore Girls themed merch) * Stuart's Floral * The Po Cafe (for lunch) * Mayflower Inn and Spa- inspiration for the Independence Inn * Stars Hollow Yarn in New Preston, CT * Arethusa Farm Ice Cream * We shopped in a couple local thrift shops, did some window shopping in downtown Litchfield before stopping for coffee at Espresso 59.

Check out this blog post for more ideas of Exploring Washington Connecticut with a Gilmore Girls themed lens. Stay tuned for a vlog coming to the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. KAL News * Splash Pad Registration Opens May 1 * Event will run Friday May 24th through Wednesday July 31, 2024 * Sponsor Call will go out SOON!

Events * Fiber Witch Festival: April 19-21, 2024 in Salem, MA (marketplace and classes) * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Sunday April 27, 2024 in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick Pop-up Event: May 2 & 3, 2024 in Frederick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 4 & 5, 2024 in West Friendship, MD * New Hampshire Sheep & Wool: May 11 & 12, 2024 in Deerfield, NH * Webs Fleece Market: May 18 in Northampton, MA (Tent sale May 16-17) * Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: may 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA * Flock Fiber Festival- August 4-6 in Seattle, WA * Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY * For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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. –KURT VONNEGUT ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 275 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu & The Yarn Sellar

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Thumper Hat

• Yarn: Berrocco Ultra Alpaca in the Light Grey colorway
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)
• Pattern: Thumper Hat by Jennifer Lassonde- $5 Knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • The Thumper Hat is a worsted weight slouchy hat with a diamond lace pattern.
• For the size Large/XL, I used 66g of yarn (around 144 yards/132 meters)

LFA Mystery Shortie Socks

• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes
• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About 12 rounds of ribbing. 1 round of knitting before starting the heel
• I used 35 grams of yarn.

Hair bow

• Pattern: Cottage Hair Accessories (Bow Tie) by Wool & Pine. $5 pattern available on Ravelry or on the Wool & Pine website)
• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Glitz Toes- multicolor mini skein from Christmas 2023 Advent Calendar.
• Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
• Ravelry Project Page
• You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
• Progress: My January (Month 4) squares done and seamed and the border is in progress. My February (Month 5) squares are in progress.

Be Fearless Socks

• Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Be FearLess Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• About the Yarn: pink, peach yellow, green and blue stripes to look like the colors in our FearLESS Living Fund logo. Pet of our February fundraiser.
• Progress: more than half way done with leg on the first sock

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 )
• Ravelry Project Page
• Area 51. Snack shack sponsor.
• 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.
  • I need to take Liz’s measurements

From the Armchair * I’ll Have What She’s Having: How Nora Ephron’s Three Iconic Films Saved the Romantic Comedy by Erin Carlson. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Women by Kristin Hannah. Bookshop Affiliate Link.Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan. 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.

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.

KAL News Splash Pad Party will be coming!

Events

• The Yarn Seller’s Fiber Marketplace– April 6, 2024 in York Beach, ME
• Shepard’s Extravaganza: April 6-7 in Enumclaw, WA
• Whidbey Weavers Guild Spin-In: April 6-7 in Oak Harbor, WA
• Fiber Witch Festival: April 19-21, 2024 in Salem, MA (marketplace and classes)
• Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Sunday April 27, 2024 in North Haven, CT
• Yarncentrick Pop-up Event: May 2 & 3, 2024 in Frederick, MD
• Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 4 & 5, 2024 in West Friendship, MD
• New Hampshire Sheep & Wool: May 11 & 12, 2024 in Deerfield, NH
• Webs Fleece Market: May 18 in Northampton, MA (Tent sale May 16-17)
• Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI
• Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA
• Flock Fiber Festival– August 4-6 in Seattle, WA
• Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY
• Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT
• NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY
• For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.

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.”

— Doug Larson

——

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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) * Size: XS * Ravelry Project Page * About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. * Made for Mom

FearLESS Socks (Steel Toes) * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK Steel Toes (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 * Ravelry Project Page * About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. * Made for my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.

Greyhaven Hat * Pattern: Greyhaven hat by Robin Ulrich ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Yarn: Berocco Ultra Alpaca in the Avocado Colorway * Ravelry Project Page * Made for my niece's Aila's 15th birthday after she saw and like the grey one I wear a lot.

Emotional Support Chicken * Pattern: Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino ($6.50 US Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & this website) * Yarn: Various DK scraps * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

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.

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About 12 rounds of ribbing. 1 round of knitting before starting the heel * Progress: Finished first sock and beyond the heel on the second sock.

From the Armchair * Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Big Swiss by Jen Beagin. 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. 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)

Events * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Sunday April 27, 2024 in North Haven, CT * Yarncentrick Pop-up Event: May 2 & 3, 2024 in Frederick, MD * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 4 & 5, 2024 in West Friendship, MD * New Hampshire Sheep & Wool: May 11 & 12, 2024 in Deerfield, NH * Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: March 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA * Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT * NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY

Contest, News & Notes * 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." -Charles Dickens, Great Expectations ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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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. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * From the Armchair * KAL News * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu Off 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 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe. * 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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

From the Armchair Reading * The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * You, Again by Kate Goldbeck. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Watching: * 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!

Contest, News & Notes Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers. 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. –Christopher Alexander ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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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) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Nimbus Vest * Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern) * Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double * Needles: US 10 (6.0mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- pink/mauve base with taupes, blues, greens and other pinks/maroons.

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe. * 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 * Chicken Family Crochet Pattern by Atomic Crochet Shop on Etsy. $5 crochet pattern on Etsy.

Knitting in Passing * 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.

From the Armchair 1. Bad Mormon by Heather Gay. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Spare by Prince Harry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 3. Maybe Once, Maybe Twice by Alison Rose Greenberg. 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. 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. Thanks for a fun season! Mary Events Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers. 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 * Let the Mystery Unravel February Box * Yarnable Unboxing- February 2024 * 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 1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy 2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. 3. Make & assess goals each month of the year - Jan done 4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund 6. 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. 7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site 8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection 9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room 10. Publish at least one new pattern 11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun 12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater 13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room 14. Take a class 15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe 16. Go skiing 17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May 19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items 20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed 21. Buy a new blow dryer. 22. Get my car detailed 23. Buy new curtains for living room Ordered 3. We picked one! I ordered more, they arrived and we hung them up! YAY! 24. 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.

Quote of the Week Kindness eases change / Love quiets fear –OCTAVIA E. BUTLER ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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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 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 * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins I Love You More Socks * Yarn: Malabrigo Arroyo in the Azules colorway (medium denim blue) * Needles: US 3(3.25 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: I (5.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: nearly done with color 2 of 6.

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Knit wit designs. Snack shack sponsor. * Progress: nearly ready for the decreases.

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. * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: more than half way done.

Nimbus Vest * Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern) * Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double * Needles: US 10 (6.0mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Notes: I added about 4 inches to the body before the armholes.

From the Armchair * Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewel. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan. 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. 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. * Needle felting & Alcohol Inks + Fire on Glass (click here for a related video tutorial if you're curious)

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 got some great info from Jim Grant from Good Karma Farm about getting going on my Cricular Sock Machine. Check out their video on How to Knit a Sock on Circular Sock Machine for beginners. * We got lunch after at The Local. Then Mom and I went back and I bought a few plants, a watering can & a decorative pumpkin from the clearance section. * The next Farm Fiber Days at Wayland Farmer's Market is March 3, 2024. Details can be found on their website.

Vogue Knitting Live in New York City * Class: A Lace for Everything and Everything in Its Lace with Bristol Ivy * In the marketplace, I ran into my friend Sarah in the Cowgirlblues booth where I bought some mini skeins. * I was thrilled to run into Petrina, Shameika, Twinset Jan * I was so happy to meet Pigskin Sponsor, Terri from At Haynes House Yarns. * 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)

KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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.
• Kristen recently shared a link to a story about monkeyshine hunting. Its a neat tradition that coincides with lunar new year in Tacoma. https://gritcitymag.com/2020/01/a-little-backstory-on-monkeyshines-in-tacoma/
• 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

Events Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers. 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 1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy 2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. ($51,397- includes CD) 3. Make & assess goals each month of the year 4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund (DONE) 6. Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items. 7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site 8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection (DONE) 9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room 10. Publish at least one new pattern 11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun 12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater 13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress 14. Take a class (DONE) 15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe 16. Go skiing 17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 1) Hercules 18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May 19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items 20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed 21. Buy a new blow dryer. 22. Get my car detailed (DONE) 23. Buy new curtains for living room- ordered some to try on 1/19 24. 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. –SARAH BERNHARDT ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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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 * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am extending what is written as a square into a rectangle. * 64 squares now. about 24 totally seamed

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

Jen/Riley's Matching Hexi Blankets * Pattern: Using this photo tutorial & this video tutorial. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * We are making 4 round hexagons. * As Riley finishes one, she texts me and I work up my corresponding mini. We've done 14 so far. I'm making collages in Canva for each.

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Knit Wit Sesigns is a Pigskin Snack Shack Sponsor. * Progress: around 75% done. * I think this pattern is a great use for Felici which I've found doesn't hold up as well to hard wearing things like socks.

Nimbus Vest * Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern on the Berrocco website) * Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double * Needles: US 10 (6.0mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: I'm currently working on the back and am almost done with the 13 inches I need before I decrease for the armholes.

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) * Ravelry Project Page * Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe. * Progress- the first sock probably about ready for the toe. Second sock- cuff is done, about 3 inches into the leg. * I also did some darning on his first pair of handknit socks.

Brainstorming Bought yarn for 3 blanket projects huge sale at Joann * Conor & Carly Baby using this crochet pattern on Ravelry. * Colleen & Patrick Baby Blanket using this crochet pattern on Ravelry. * Jenny & Manny Baby Blanket using the Modified Sedge Stitch Baby Blanket- a $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry.

From the Armchair * The Bodyguard by Katherine Center. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center. 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 * #DCSPigskinParty23 * Official Rules * Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• 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:
• stillstranding: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4272642/476-500#498
• nellsknitting: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4272642/476-500#491
• supercraftygirl: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Supercraftygirl/snow-matter-what

• esalaza: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4272642/501-525#516

• 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!

• https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4272642/501-525#508
• She also made a grizzly bear that is so lifelike--really cool! https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4272642/501-525#520

Events * Vogue Knitting Live, New York: January 25-28th, 2024 + 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 * December 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing + Blanket Update

Life in Focus 2023 Review: * Knitting/Crochet/Spinning + 61 Finished Projects + 32 knitting - 2 sweaters (1 for me, 1 for Mom). Lots of hats & socks. + 29 crochet (same as last year)- 9 toys + 43 are gifts (+ 3 charity items) + Spinning- 3 finished projects. 880 meters of yarn. (3 Spinning WIPs)

Favorite projects * Jean Marie shawl for Mom's birthday- Ravelry Project Page (fingering held double) * Crochet Ice Cream Cone for Hattie's Birthday- Ravelry Project Page * Domingo the Easter Goat for Millie for Christmas- Ravelry Project Page

2023 Numbers: * 50 Books read * 24 Podcast Episodes * 66 Videos on YouTube (some only available for Patrons) * YouTube Subscribers- 461 new subscribers, 2,578 subscribers total * 5 times- Donated Blood * 14 Massages * Book Signings- 1 * Plays/Musicals/drag Shows- 12 * Concerts- 5 (night time only in Nashville) + 1 (Kane Brown) + 1 (Lainey Wilson ) + 1 (Old Dominion)= 8 * Birthday Sleepovers- 3 * Fiber Events- 6 (Russells, CT sheep & Wool, Maryland, Rhinebeck, C&SSYH, Fiber Fest of NE) * Trips: Nashville, Maryland, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Rhinebeck.

23 for 2023 list 1. Read 23 books (35 as of August) 2. Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes 3. Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos (ordered 8/9 from Walgreens- 8x10 for $12!) 4. Kayak in one new place Did not complete 5. Hike in one new place 6. See 4 plays/musicals (Hamilton 2/9, Shrek in March twice. Secret Garden at Company in April, Matilda [Millie] in May) 7. Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October & December done) 8. Knit myself a pair of mittens 9. Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun (Strathcona sweater "aka my Rhinebeck sweater" 10. Watch 3 movies in one day (1/22 w/ Mom, Terri, Megg- Everything. Everywhere, All At Once. Women Talk. Armageddon Time) 11. See a movie in the theater (A Man Called Otto w/ Laura) 12. Go to a museum (Liz and I went in December) 13. Finish 1 punch needle project- Did not complete 14. Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4)- Did not complete 15. 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. 16. Make at least 1 new financial investment (CD started in February) 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. 18. Publish 1 knitting pattern 19. Send 5 cards to friends/family just because- Did not complete 20. Go Camping- Did not complete 21. Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram 22. Take a class (in person or virtual)- Zumba twice. 23. 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 1. Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy 2. End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. 3. Make & assess goals each month of the year 4. Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 5. Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund 6. Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items. 7. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site 8. Add one new indoor plant to my collection 9. Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room 10. Publish at least one new pattern 11. Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun 12. Knit/crochet myself a new sweater 13. Make a Christmas afghan for the living room 14. Take a class 15. Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe 16. Go skiing 17. Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 18. Do something special for our Anniversary in May 19. Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items 20. Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed 21. Buy a new blow dryer. 22. Get my car detailed 23. Buy new curtains for living room 24. 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. -Akiroq Brost ------ 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 Channel Email me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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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. 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 * Knitting in Passing * KAL News * Contest, News & Notes * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Tailgate Party Mittens * Pattern: Tailgate Party Hat & Mittens by Wendy Gaal of Knitters Brewing Co * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Yarn: Dancing Leaf Dyeworks. Bee Bop 100% SW Merino DK (no colorway name) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * These worked up in one busy evening after work and were a gift for the owners of my gym.

Colourful Mini Dino * Pattern: Colourful Mini Dino by Anika Kam (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) * Hook: C (2.75 mm) * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Lady Slipper colorway + mystery worsted acrylic yarn of a similar shade of purple

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 * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project * 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: working on second 4 oz in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway in 70/30 BFL/Tussah Silk

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Area 51. Snack shack sponsor. * Progress: finished first sock. Half way through leg on second.

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 ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.

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) * Ravelry Project Page

Calendula Christmas Quilt * Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova * Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair Books 2 & 3 of the Silo Series: * Shift by Hugh Howey. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Dust by Hugh Howey. 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. 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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.

Contest, News & Notes Vlogmas 2023 highlights: * Day 15: Gingerbread Houses * 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! * You can find the full 2023 Vlogmas Playlist here.

On a Happy Note * 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. –John Green ------ For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Area 51 Fibres is Snack Shack Sponsor.

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 Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Area 51 Fibres is Snack Shack Sponsor. * Progress: 1st sock is finished.

Same as It Ever Was Hat * Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Sarah Jordan of Knit/Wit designs is a Snack Shack Sponsor.

Colourful Mini Dino * Pattern: Colourful Mini Dino by Anika Kam (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) * Hook: C (2.75 mm) * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Lady Slipper colorway + mystery worsted acrylic yarn of a similar shade of purple

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 ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting. * Progress: I'm about half way through the leg of the first sock.

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) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: keeping up on one sock. The other has maybe 6 stripes. After day 12 ready to turn heel so I might get behind for a couple days depending. * Woolens & Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor.

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, washed and dried.
• Plan is to use the yarn to knit this Tweed Tie available on Ravelry.

Tailgate Party Mittens * Pattern: Tailgate Party Hat & Mittens by Wendy Gaal of Knitters Brewing Co * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Yarn: Dancing Leaf Dyeworks. Bee Bop 100% SW Merino DK (no colorway name) * Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming I have such a strong urge to cast on a Christmas afghan that has a quilt-like effect. Any suggestions for me? * Crochet Star Quilt by Sandra Paul (~$6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry) + Sport weight yarn

• C2C Barn Quilt Blanket by Emily Marie Davies ($5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry or on this website)
• Granny Square Snowflake Blanket by Briana K Designs ($8 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry
• Winter Plaid Blanket by Mallory Krall- (~4.66 crochet pattern on Ravelry)

From the Armchair Wool by Hugh Howey (The Silo Series- Book 1) 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. 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.

KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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.

Events * Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024

Contest, News & Notes * 3rd installment of Mom's Health Update/catch up available on YouTube * Vlogmas 2023 Playlist * December Yarnable Video

On a Happy Note * 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 ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. 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

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, The Little Wolf Knits & Suburban Stitcher Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Splash Socks * 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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Patrick's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page * Melissa's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page

Drawn Together Cowl * Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on * Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) * Ravelry Project Page * Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.

Wish Star * Patterns: Sol Amigurumi by Vanessa Doncatto (free crochet pattern on Ravelry ) + Wide Mustache by Crochet with Clare (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & the Crochet with Clare website) + Heart Garland by Sarahndipidities (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & the Sarahndipidities website)

• Hooks: B (2.25 mm), C (2.75 mm) & D (3.25 mm)
• 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.
• Ravelry Project Page
• Made on Black Friday afternoon

Brachiosaurus * Pattern: Dinosaur Jurassic World No Sew Crochet Pattern by Klein Maker on Etsy ($9.89 for 4 patterns) * Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Jade colorway (body) & Knit Picks Brava Worsted in the Sky colorway * Hook: C (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * I used nearly all 97 meters in this skein with 6 repeats of the pattern.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Silver Spoon Socks * Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway * 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: 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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting * Progress: I'm about half way through the leg of the first sock.

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) * Ravelry Project Page * Note- pair 199 of OMG Heel Socks!

DK Bella Fio Socks * Yarn: BellaFio DK Sock (75% SW Merino/ 25% recycled nylon) in the Great Gray Owl colorway. Goosey Fibers Goosey Hefty (100% SW Merino- Worsted Weight) in Buckbeack (cuffs, heels and toes) * Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * I'd like to make 1 other pumpkin.

From the Armchair Escaping Twin Flames Documentary on Netflix Lessons in Chemistry on Apple TV 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! KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• In this episode:
• 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. * November Let the Mystery Unravel Video

On a Happy Note * 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. –James Baldwin Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. 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

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Rising Tide Fiber Co, Enchanted Etchings, Chit Chat Knits Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 3 Crochet Charity Hats * Wool Ease Thick & Quick Bedrock Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 9 mm crochet hook + Standard circle increases up to (inc, sc5)

• Lion Brand Baby's First Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook.

• I added a large flower using this tutorial from Instagram by tanoshiimajo.

• Purple Crochet Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook. Mystery yarn.

Perry's Christmas Hat * Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood * Yarn: Goosey Fibers, Squishy DK. OOAK colorway * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing. US 7 (4.5 mm) for body. * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 * My Ravelry Project Page

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page

Jen/Riley's Matching Hexi Blankets * Pattern: Using this photo tutorial & this video tutorial. * Hook: D (3.25 mm) * We are making 4 round hexagons. * As Riley finishes one, she texts me and I work up my corresponding mini. We've done 4 so far.

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out the October Unboxing video * Progress: I finished the 3-round border in the dark gray.

Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project * 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield * Ravelry Project Page

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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Patrick's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page * Melissa's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * I received my Woolens & Nosh Advent socks. I wound up the contrast color and I'm going to plan to finish both cuffs before December 1st.

From the Armchair 1. The Armor of Light by Ken Follett (read by John Lee). Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Red White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 3. Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman. 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. 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!

KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 * Official Rules * Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) * Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form * Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. + Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread + Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
• Updates this Episode
• 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 * Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024

Contest, News & Notes * Scrappy Helical Clasp Weft Tutorial available on my YouTube Channel. + 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!

• Check out my trip with Mom to New England Fiber Festival.
• November Yarnable Unboxing Video is available.
• 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. –Ann Patchett ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Brainstorming * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Cniotáil Láimhe Designs on Ravelry & Buxom Cat Knits Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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 * Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 * My Ravelry Project Page

Sneaky Pumpkins (& their Ghost friends) * Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic (various) in white, orange and brown. * Hook: C (2.75 mm) * Pattern: Cute Halloween Decorations by Laura Sillar (~$3.85 US Crochet pattern) available on Ravelry * Safety Eyes from 6060 on Etsy. * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * I thought I had 3 to make before Thanksgiving, but it's really only two which is a huge relief. * Progress: The front & back of one stocking is done. I finished the foot shaping on the both sides of the stocking.

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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out the October Unboxing video * Progress: Riley helped me complete the 9 squares for October. I've single crocheted them together and started the border.

Brainstorming Samples & patterns we found at Rhinebeck: * Mini Mock Neck Tank by Jessie Maed Designs ($9 knitting pattern available on Ravelry). * The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the Drea Renee Knits website) * PhD Candidate Sweater by Hannah Mann (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

In My Travels Las Vegas * We attended the BOSS Reseller Remix Event hosted at the Blind Center of Nevada * 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.

KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• Commentator Updates- tune in to hear more. I talked about the following- these are all RAVELRY project pages:
• Joseybug has been cranking out some Sagamore flyover hats
• Estherwy recently finished a beautiful tessalated vest.

• Laaleebee recently finished the Rhinebeck Doodle cowl

• Stats

• 525 Participants
• Of those, 323 with Points
• Average of those with points 552 Points
• Highest: 4332 & Lowest: 10
• Blitzes 52
• Top 3 players: 1) foryouandyarn (4332 points) 2) Pebblesgirlcraft (3839 points), 3) mostlymunchies (3626 points)
• Top Conference: LFC

• Top Team: #7 Garter Guards 21,8356

• 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. –YU HUA ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * 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

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works, Twin Mountain Handcrafts, AdoreKnit & Suburban Stitcher Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Benjamin'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

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) * I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust) * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress- 6 inches on the first leg & a couple rows of the heel. I purposely

Drawn Together Cowl * Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on * Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) * Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page

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 * Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 * My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming 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. * Ravelry pattern page

Garter Stitch Cardigans * Cruiser by Kristen Finlay ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry * Kallias by Isabell Kraemer is another contender. + Worsted weight cardigan, no button bands, positive ease. ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry.

• Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)

I talked a bit about travel knitting/crochet for my upcoming trip to Vegas/NY Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz is crocheting a super bulky blanket and I'm totally inspired! * Special Edition Autumn Coastline Hexie Blanket by Mallory Krall. Crochet pattern: $4.50 US available on Ravelry & for free on the NautiKrall website.

From the Armchair Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 * #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• Tune in to hear if you're a September Participation Prize Winner
• Check out these cool links from our Commissioners Update
• There is lots of talk of socks in the huddle thread--no doubt inspired by our Q1 challenge.

• 12 people have already completed socks for the Q1 challenge and player helmadejong has already completed two pairs! They've made two shortie pairs of Lisa K. Ross's rough waters pattern https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HelmadeJong/rough-waters and https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HelmadeJong/rough-waters-2

• Lots of players are getting in the fall spirit by making pumpkins. For example:

• Three players knit up pumpkins:
• mostlymunchies recently finished some glow in the dark pumpkins that look very cool: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/mostlymunchies/mini-pumpkins-14
• procrasticrafting also knit a very large pumpkin. Their project page includes a dog for scale! https://www.ravelry.com/projects/jazprocraftinates/big-pumpkin

• helpfulmomma also knit up a cute little pumpkin: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxf_R_5LXh2/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D&img_index=1

• Sophiexuan machine knit some pumpkins: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HurdenSX/addi-king-pumpkins-tweed

• Six players (LaDiDa2U, Sarahsyarn86, dottyandsassy, KjKrochet, yarnitheidi, and mackbytf) all crocheted some very cute pumpkins. YarnitHeidi's pumpkins are huge!
• https://www.ravelry.com/projects/LaDiDa2u/spice--clove-knit-and-crochet-pumpkins-3
• https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx6izWeJNgC/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
• https://www.ravelry.com/projects/SarahsYarn86/farmhouse-pumpkin
• https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Dottyandsassy/plushy-pumpkin
• https://www.ravelry.com/projects/kjkrochet/crochet-pumpkin
• https://www.ravelry.com/projects/YarnItHeidi/farmhouse-bobble-pumpkins

Events * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds * 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
• Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA
• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus * #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." -Bruce Lee ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 263 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes 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 * Crafty Adventures * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, winemakersister and Buxom Cat Knits Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: knitprincess83, Haidi, Rachel, Alexi, Adoreknit, Alicia, Rachel, Agnes, Kristina and Beth Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Bobble Pumpkin * Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website) * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Yarn: Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in the Ecru Colorway * My Ravelry Project Page

Bedside Pocket * Pattern: None * Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co * Hook: 6.5 mm (K) * Ravelry Project Page * I started this project on 9/4. * 75 sts across. Single crochet. * 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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 * My Ravelry Project Page * Progress: Body is finished up through what will likely be the sleeve join. I've cast on both sleeves.

Drawn Together Cowl * Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on * Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) * Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video. * 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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 * Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA * Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Ask Me Anything * 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. –Maya Angelou ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Brainstorming * From the Armchair * KAL News * Events * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Bella Fio & Mandis Makings Off 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• Skein 1: 60" loop. 94 wraps= 5640 inches/156 yards. 92g
• Skein 2: 59" loop. 95 wraps= 5605 inches/155 yards. 96g
• Skein 3: 60" loop. 116 wraps= 6960 inches/193 yards. 96 g
• Total: 284 grams- 504 yards/ 460.9 meters
• Meters for Stash Dash= 4x 460.9 (for a 3 ply)= 1843.6 meters

My total for Stash Dash 2023= 22,908.44 You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet. Petrichor Socks * Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Ravelry Project Page * I used 74 grams of yarn.

Shock Star Hat #2 * Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * 52g of yarn used.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Bedside Pocket * Pattern: None * Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co * Hook: 6.5 mm (K) * Ravelry Project Page * I started this project on 9/4. * 75 sts across. Single crochet. * First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic * Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: Past the cuff of the second sock (not the heel as I mentioned last time).

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Hook: 3.25 mm (D) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust) * Ravelry Project Page

Drawn Together Cowl * Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) * Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on * Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) * Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video. * I flew through the rolled top, ripped out provisional cast on and joined it together on the train which, I must say made me feel like a wizard!

Brainstorming Patterns from our Pigskin Bundle on Ravelry * 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.

From the Armchair * Verity by Colleen Hoover. 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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.”

Events * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds * 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 * Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA * Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Ask Me Anything * Shana asked to hear about "Savers!" * Rachel asked for a wildlife update. * Anita asked "Ideas for getting ready for the holidays- decorations and gifts. Check out links to some of the things I discussed: + Decor - Christmas Balls Ornament Set- knitting pattern by Amy Gaines. $4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry. - Triangle Santa Ornament- free knitting pattern available on this blog. - Sarah's (of Imagined Landscapes) gnomes - 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)
• Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison
• Moonrise Necklace by Sivia Harding. You can find my Ravelry Project Page here.
• DK weight socks
• 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. * The New York Times Games App: Wordle, Spelling Bee, Connections, Daily Mini are my favorites * Decorating for fall! * 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. –LAURA ESQUIVEL Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my July 2023 Yarnable Unboxing Video * Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN using my Affiliate Link * 272 meters for Stash Dash

Summer Scrappy Helical 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 May, finished in August) * 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. * 272 meters for Stash Dash

Liz's Water Bottle Holder * Yarn: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton (85% Cotton, 15% Polyester) * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Pattern: None * Ravelry Project Page * 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). * 169.2 meters for Stash Dash

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one. * Progress: Past the heel of the second sock

Petrichor Socks * Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: Past the heel of the second sock

Brainstorming * 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. * Socks with Pigskin Sponsor Yarn

From the Armchair * True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * And Then She Kissed Me by Harper Bliss. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Tom Lake by Ann Patchett. 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 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. KAL News Pigskin Party '23 + #DCSPigskinParty23

• Official Rules
• Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
• Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
• Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
• Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread

• Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread

• Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com

• 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.

• Check out the full schedule here.

• Crowd Sourcing:

• 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." ― Les Brown ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 260 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 * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Rainbow Crochet Crop * Pattern: 100% improvised. * Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry * Hook: E (3.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * 552 grams. 819.5 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. * Progress: 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff started.

Petrichor Socks * Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: Past the heel of the first sock

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: 1st sock done. On the leg of the second sock. * Check out my July 2023 Yarnable Unboxing Video

Liz's Water Bottle Holder * Yarn: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton (85% Cotton, 15% Polyester) * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Pattern: None * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * 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. 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. From the Armchair * Cassandra in Reverse by Holly Smale. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Happy Place by Emily Henry. 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. 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) * Registration starts Monday 8/21 * Our Commissioners will announce Teams on 9/1 * KAL Starts 9/7 * Virtual Kick Off- Friday 9/8 & Saturday 9/9 * Updated rules coming soon

Back this year we have * Wendy (socalknitgirl) Wendy- Umpire * Heather (zoomdogknits) - Sheep Football Conferece * Emily- (ElsaandEm)- Llama Football Conference * Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Football Conference * Broadcast- yours truly

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + My total as of this episode: 8,959 meters + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.

• Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
• Runs May 29- September 4, 2023

• legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash

• Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast

• May 26-September 4, 2023

• Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed

• Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group

• 5/26- 8/31/2023

• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds

• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus 23 for 2023 list (a few updates) * Read 23 books (37 as of August) * 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. –HARUKI MURAKAMI ------ Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 259 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 * Some Years Later * Crafty Adventures * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * Ask Me Anything * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Enchanted Etchings Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Shock Star Hat * Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: cream base with small bits of neons + black. * 92 sts * 130.5 meters for Stash Dash

Watermelon cozies * Pattern: Ball Band (free pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts) & Ball Band with a Twist ($2 crochet pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts) by Jennifer Lassonde * Yarns: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton in Colorway: Cranberry. Loops & Threads Everyday Cotton in Jade. Leftover scrubby yarn for lighter green * Hooks: 3.75 mm (F) & 4.25 mm (G) * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * 156.4 meters for Stash Dash

Woolens and Nosh Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 20g mini in dark purple; used for cuff and heel. * 285.8 meters for Stash Dash

Zebra Stripes Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 273.6 meters for Stash Dash

Children of Time Spinning * Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• 1 ply of Wool of the Andes in 2 colors of blue + 2 plies of Into the Whirled
• Skein 1= 94g. 116.91 yards or 106.9 meters
• Skein 2= 82g 120.3 yards, 110 meters

• Total meters of yarn 216.9

• For Stash Dash= 4 x 216.9 = 867.6 meters

Purple Spring Spin * Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk. * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• 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. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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. 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.
• As of 7/25/23- 51' wide by 58" long. (13 x 17 hexis)

Silver Spoon Socks * Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: on the foot of the first sock.

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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

Rainbow Crochet Crop * Pattern: 100% improvised. * Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry * Hook: E (3.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one.

From the Armchair * The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. + Recommended by Dan's cousin Melissa

• Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica. 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. 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! KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023 * Sign up using this Google Form. * To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. * Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media. * Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread. * Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize. * End of the event winners will be announced in Episode 260

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + My total as of this episode: 8,140 meters + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.

• Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
• Runs May 29- September 4, 2023

• legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash

• Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast

• May 26-September 4, 2023

• Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed

• The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel.

• Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group

• 5/26- 8/31/2023

• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds

• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus * After 3+ years I got Covid. * 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. –OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES, SR ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 258 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 * In my Travels * KAL News * Events * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Summer Rainbow Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 253.8 meters for Stash Dash

Hattie’s Water Bottle Holder * Pattern: Freedom Water Bottle Holder by Wendy Serrao (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on Wendy’s website) * Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up * Hook: G (4.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up * Hook: G (4.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 14 meters for Stash Dash

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 * Ravelry Project Page * Size: Adult Medium * About the project: Half light blue, half darker denim blue, about 8.5 inches tall. You can still fold up the brim if you really want to. * 384.7 meters for Stash Dash

Chevron Scrap Blanket * Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website. + 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
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
• 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 https://youtu.be/mQPVlaRE4Gw
• 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.
• 3,024 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & https://youtu.be/X4hgFCAKHkg?list=PLsrz34yAA5TqZ9zDYjyLp4A1tx_2x0Ub6 * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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. 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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 ) * Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway- approximately 3 round stripes of black and cream * Progress: Finished first sock. Turned the heel on the second sock.

Woolens and Nosh Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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: * Beach Read by Emily Henry. 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. 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. * Bell Rock trailhead/ vista. * 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. * Uptown Sedona. Lunch. Coffee. Shopping. Ice cream!

KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023 * Sign up using this Google Form. * To confirm you’re signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. * Splash Pad '23 Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media. * Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread. * Tune in to hear if you are one of our Participation Winners

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + My total as of this episode: 5,630 meters + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.

• Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
• Runs May 29- September 4, 2023

• legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash

• Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast

• May 26-September 4, 2023

• Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed

• The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel.

• Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group

• 5/26- 8/31/2023

• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds

• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus * 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: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 257 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
• Some Years Later
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Bella Fio, Woolen Women
Thanks to Mom for joining me for part of this episode!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cushion Bags

• Pattern: none
• Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up & Other Dish Cloth Cotton
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• I made 2 cushion covers for Mom because the bags for her inflatable seat cushions were too small to easily fit back into.
• Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 1: green and aqua
• Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 2 : black and aqua
• 155 meters for Stash Dash (in the 2 projects)

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.
• 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)
• Size: Medium (3 sizes available)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 161 meters for Stash Dash

Curiouser & Curiouser Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• These count for the #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal
• Will weigh these socks when I get home from Phoenix

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Summer Rainbow Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Progress: Almost to the heel of sock #2

Zebra Stripes Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the colorway:
• Progress: Finished most of the first sock

Chevron Scrap Blanket

• Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website.
  • 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
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
• 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.

From the Armchair * Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz. 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.

Some Years Later Cozy Classic Raglan

• 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!

In My Travels * Mom and I are recording from Phoenix, Arizona at the List Perfectly Camp Listing Party Event. * Mom & I gave a presentation on the Fearless Living Fund where we’ve already raised over $1600! * You can donate to the Fearless Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada on Venmo.

KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023

• Sign up using this Google Form.
• To confirm you’re signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here.
• Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media.
• Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread.

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + My total as of this episode: 1,619 meters (plus socks I haven’t been able to weigh) + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet. * Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website + Runs May 29- September 4, 2023 + #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash * Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + May 26-September 4, 2023 + Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed * The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel. * Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group + 5/26- 8/31/2023 * Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds * Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus * 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

——

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022.

Solstice Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Summer Rainbow Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Progress: I finished the first sock in Nashville & cast on the cuff of the second

Curiouser & Curiouser Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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.

KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023

• Sign up using this Google Form.
• To confirm you’re signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here.
• Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media.
• Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread.

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + My total as of this episode: 1,075 meters in 4 pairs of socks + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet. * Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website + Runs May 29- September 4, 2023 + #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash * Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + May 26-September 4, 2023 + Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed * The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel. * Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group + 5/26- 8/31/2023 * Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds * Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Quote of the Week “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.

——Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: Half of the skein is navy blue the other half is a neon rainbow. At my gauge it is microstriping!

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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * I am using Cate's Clasp Weft Join when joining a new yarn. Using this method, I only have 4 ends to weave in even though I am changing yarns often.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * Ravelry Project Page * 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. * Progress Update: 225 hexagons done on 5/22/23 (74 unwashed + 151 washed)- goal is 374

Chevron Scrap Blanket * Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria's Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria's Blue Crayon Website. + 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
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
• 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * I am using Cate's Clasp Weft Join when joining a new yarn. Using this method, I only have 4 ends to weave in even though I am changing yarns often. * Progress: Sock 1 is close to the heel. Sock 2 has a cuff.

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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022. * Progress: almost to the toe on the second sock

Summer Rainbow Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: 1st cuff down + a few inches into the leg

Curiouser & Curiouser Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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: ready to start heel on first sock

Purple Spring Spin * Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk. * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• 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!

From the Armchair * The Cartographers by Peng Shepard. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson. 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. In My Travels * Friday night we had dinner at Water Street in Wiscasset, Maine * Maine Botanical Gardens. + The girls and I especially loved the 5 giant troll sculptures + 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 - Life in Five Senses by Gretchen Rubin. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023 * Sign up using this Google Form. * To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. * Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media. * Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread.

Events * Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord + Jasmin (aka cuteknitter) & I will be doing our annual, mostly-friendly challenge. + 2 pairs of socks so far= 548 meters + You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.

• Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website
• Runs May 29- September 4, 2023

• legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash

• Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast

• May 26-September 4, 2023

• Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed

• The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel.

• Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group

• 5/26- 8/31/2023

• Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds

• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Contest, News & Notes Check out my latest shawl design- Mas Vida! Find all of the details on my website. Mas Vida is available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts for $7. Use code mas for 30% off on Ravelry through 6/2. On a Happy Note * Mother's Day celebrations seeing Millie in Matilda followed by dinner at a local brewery * Flowers from Chris & Margarita * Vikki & Katy visited from Las Vegas. I picked them up at the airport and then we met Mom, Dad, Trish and Liz for dinner. * Dan & I celebrated our 19th Anniversary at a local brewery after work. * Thank you Steph for the beautiful AdoreKnit Splash Pad '23 Exclusive Bag & Stitch Markers * 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. –Mary Oliver ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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) + You can see more of the December 2022 Winter Mint themed packaged in my Vlogmas 2022: Day 2 video

• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue

Riley recently finished a knitted tote from the Rheinpack Tote pattern available on Ravelry. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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. 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.

Purple Spring Spin * Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk. * 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• 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 * Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) * Pattern: none * Ravelry Project Page * About the yarn: cream base with small bits of neons + black. * 92 sts. 2x2 rib with the US 5 needles. Switched to US 7 needles after the brim. Planning on a slouchy hat

Silver Spoon Socks * Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway * 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: 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 ) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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. From the Armchair * Life in Five Senses by Gretchen Rubin. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Riley is re-reading The Summer I turned Pretty by Jenny Han. 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. 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. * Day 1: Yorkshire Meadow Shawl- details on my website. * Day 2: Grace & Frankie Shawl- * Day 3: Tan House Brook Shawl * Day 4: World of Difference Shawl * Day 5: Boxing Day Bonus (me) + Jean Marie Shawl (Mom) * Day 6: Mas Vida Shawl (Coming soon) * Day 7: Deschain Tee by Leila Raven * Day 8: Soldotna Crop by Caitlin Hunter * Day 10: Riley Rose Shawl * Day 13: Amma Top by Maria Valles (me) + Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs (Riley)

In My Travels * Riley & I attended Connecticut Sheep & Wool. Check out our vlog video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. * 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. * To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. * The 8th Annual Splash Pad Party opens on Friday May 26th and runs through July 31st. * Virtual Events to open the Splash Pad will be Friday 5/26 & Saturday 5/27. Check out this link for details. All times are in Eastern Time. * Check out the Sponsor list here.

Events * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds * Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds * Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Contest, News & Notes 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. –DAG HAMMARSKJOLD ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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 * Ravelry Project Page

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) + You can see more of the December 2022 Winter Mint themed packaged in my Vlogmas 2022: Day 2 video

• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue
• Progress: Turned heel of first sock

Zebra Stripes Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * About the colorway: * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * Size: Adult Medium * Progress check- More than half way done. Added in second color

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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. 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.
• 196 hexagons done by 4/25/23 (151 washed/ 45 unblocked) More than half way there if my goal is 374

Children of Time Spinning * Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time 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.

• Ravelry Project Page
• About the Fiber: purple, plum, tans, browns and blues
• Progress: Finishing spinning all 4 oz

Benjamin'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: finished green panel. Finished the last ~20 rows of the red side on the train this week.

From the Armchair 1. The Villa by Rachel Hawkins. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 3. I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 4. "You Just Need to Lose Weight" and 19 Other Myths About Fat People by Aubrey Gordon. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

I'm also excited for new book from Virginia Sole-Smith- Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture. * Check out Episode 265 of the Forever 35 Podcast & Episode 30 of the Struggle Care Podcast for Interviews with Virginia Sole-Smith about her book. Virginia also has her own podcast called Burnt Toast (and a Substack by the same name) which I've just started listening to.

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. * To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. * The 8th Annual Splash Pad Party opens on Friday May 26th and runs through July 31st.

Events * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds + Mom & I are planning to attend

• NH Sheep & Wool: May 13 & 14 in Deerfield, NH
• Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds
• Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds
• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Contest, News & Notes * 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." Source: A Life of One's Own ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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)
  • You can see more of the December 2022 Winter Mint themed packaged in my Vlogmas 2022: Day 2 video
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the colorway: mint green with specks of gray and blue
• Progress: Leg of the 1st sock is complete

Solstice Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Progress- Finished 1st sock. Cast on second.

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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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: Sock #1 done. 2nd one on the leg

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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the yarn: Half of the skein is navy blue the other half is a neon rainbow. At my gauge it is microstriping.

Purple Spring Spin

• Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk.
• 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.
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the braid: contains purple (various shades), yellow, orange, gray, blue, pink
• Ordered 4 ounces of a purple fiber that I plan to split in half and ply with this for a 3-ply.

Children of Time Spinning

• Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time 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.
• Ravelry Project Page
• About the Fiber: purple, plum, tans, browns and blues

Chevron Scrap Blanket

• Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria’s Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria’s Blue Crayon Website.
  • 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
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
• 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.

From the Armchair

I talked in the last episode about Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Thanks to Sarah, PAKnitWit who mentioned that some of the book tour might have been recorded. I found this video on YouTube.

1. Foster by Claire Keegan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
2. This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
3. Normal People by Sally Rooney. 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.

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.
• Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds.
• Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds
  • Mom & I are planning to attend
• NH Sheep & Wool: May 13 & 14 in Deerfield, NH
• Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds
• Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th from 9-10a at the Windsor Fairgrounds
• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Life in Focus

• 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.”

-James Clear-

—-Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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) * Ravelry Project Page

Own Two Feet Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 56 stitches. Cuff Down. * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * Size: Adult Medium * 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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 56 stitches. Cuff Down. * 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: Sock #1 is most of the way through the foot.

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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Cloudy + Rainbows Spinning Project * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

From the Armchair * Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. 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. 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. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds. * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds + Mom & I are planning to attend

• NH Sheep & Wool: May 13 & 14 in Deerfield, NH
• Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds
• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds
• Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)

Contest, News & Notes * 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. –Dawn Drzal Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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 * Ravelry Project Page

Hattie's Cupcake * Pattern: Cupcake by Stitch11. Free crochet pattern available on this website & on Ravelry. * Hook: C (2.75) * Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cake), Big Twist Twinkle in Gray (wrapper) * Silver sparkle yarn for cupcake wrapper, taupe for cupcake, white frosting with pink and purple sprinkles to match ice cream. * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * 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. 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 * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 56 stitches. Cuff Down. * About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green. Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022. * Progress: Sock #1 is beyond the heel.

Own Two Feet Socks * Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) * Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 56 stitches. Cuff Down. * About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray * Progress: Just finished the heel of the second sock.

Benjamin'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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.0 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Progress: finished green panel. Almost done w/ the red.

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) * Ravelry Project Page * Just finished Section 2 of 3.

Brainstorming I charted out elongated shawl design idea which feels really good. From the Armchair * Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Modern Loss: Candid Conversations about Grief. Beginners Welcome. by Rebecca Soffer and Gabrielle Birkner. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Part of your World by Abby Jimenez. 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. 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.

Knitting in Passing * Riley texted me that she's ready for her next knitting project. We purchased some Goosey Fibers yarn at Yarn's End during the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul so she can knit the Riley Rose Cowl, which, yes, is named after her. You can find my pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.

In My Travels * Mom, Millie & I went to Russell's Garden Center for Farm Fiber Days Event. * 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. * I also chose 3 minis from Sassy Black Yarns. * Millie chose a skein of Making Tracks from Junction Fiber Mill + 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. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds. * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds + Mom & I are planning to attend

• Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds
• Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds

On a Happy Note * Getting more minis from Nicole in the mail! * 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. –DALAI LAMA ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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.

This week’s segments included:

• Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• From the Armchair
• Knitting in Passing
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: The Yarn Sellar

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.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
• 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: I’m maybe an inch past the first cuff.

Own Two Feet Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
• Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 56 stitches. Cuff Down.
• About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray
• Progress: I’ve turned the first heel.

Benjamin’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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair Movies

• A Man Called Otto (2022)
• Till (2022)
• The Fabelmans (2022)

Books

• The Measure by Nikki Erlick. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
• The Betrayal of Anne Frank; A Cold Case Investigation by Rosemary Sullivan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
• Book Lovers by Emily Henry. 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 * 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. * We did a taste test of 3 peanut butter cups. Of the three milk chocolate peanut butter cups, Hilliard’s Candy was our favorite followed by The Providence Fudge Factory and then Hot Chocolate Sparrow. * 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. * We also visited the Antique Center & Cape Abilities Thrift Store in Yarmouth, MA. * I made a quick trip to Adventures in Knitting in Harwich on Saturday. I bought 2 skeins of yarn and a set of Addi sock needles. + Gusto Wool, Carmen in color 1402 + Edelweiss Fibres Standard Sock in the Hillside Heather colorway (UK company)

KAL News Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
  • Check out the list of available Coupons 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
• Top Players
  • Julia Wagner, Team 11: 22,514 points
  • KathyG, Team 12: 19, 868 points
  • EyeNowHour, Team 3: 19,732 points
  • Kathleen_Ducharme, Team 7: 19,094

Events * Sunday March 5 from 10:30a-3:00p Farm Fiber Days at Russell’s Garden Center in Wayland, MA Check out this year’s vendors on this page. * 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. * Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds * Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds * Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds * Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds

Contest, News & Notes * 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.”
  • Purse is the Liberty Sling Bag from Anthropologie
  • 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

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 248 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full Show Notes with links and 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 * KAL News * Events * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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) * 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). * Ravelry Project Page * 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) * Ravelry Project Page * Nearly done with Section 1.

Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

Brainstorming No-Purl Ribbed Blanket by Purl Soho. Click here for the Ravelry Pattern or here for the Purl Soho website. I heard about this on the Knit Ink Podcast/YouTube Channel hosted by Natasha and her mother Petra. 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? From the Armchair Movies * Tár * The Banshees of Inisherin + Check out these articles that talk about the handknits in this movie- Vanity Fair & Esquire.

• All Quiet on the Western Front (German)
• The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse (2022)
• Master (2022)

Books * West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge. 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. 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.

Punch Needle * Kit with pattern by Teresa Kogut * Pattern: PN165- For Ewe * Link to purchase pattern only on Etsy for $12. * I purchased my complete kit from Tree House Fiber Arts. Click here for their website. + Kit included: 7"/9" Morgan hoop, weavers cloth, floss, Ultra Punch Needle, Needle threaders, pattern, instructions. + Kits no longer available but Rachel may have the other supplies available.

• Helpful resources:
• YouTube Videos by the Woolery & Kate Gillery

KAL News Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22 * Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. * Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Link to the Official Rules * Player Registration- Google Form * Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. + Check out the list of available Coupons 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 won a January participation prize
• January Interception: Self Care Bingo by Fitness by Mara. Winner announced!

Events * Sunday March 5 from 10:30a-3:00p Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA Check out this year's vendors on this page. * 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. -Deng Ming-Dao ------ Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket * Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn * Ravelry Project Page * 4 rounds per hexagon * 51+ hexagons done now. All ends woven in!

Chevron Scrap Blanket * Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria's Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria's Blue Crayon Website. + 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
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page)
• 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 * Ravelry Project Page * Size: Adult Medium * 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 ) * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

From the Armchair Books * Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Movies * Everything Everywhere All at Once * Women Talking * Armageddon Time

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 * Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. * Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Link to the Official Rules * Player Registration- Google Form * Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. + Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc. + Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread

• Important Updates in this Episode
• January Self Care Interception: hosted by Fitness by Mara. Get your Bingo Card PDF Here or the JPG here. Find all of the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
• 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 1. Read 23 books 2. Try at least one pair of fake eyelashes 3. Print and hang at least 1 of our new family photos 4. Kayak in one new place 5. Hike in one new place 6. See 4 plays/musicals 7. Give blood at least 3 times 8. Knit myself a pair of mittens 9. Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun 10. Watch 3 movies in one day - done! 11. See a movie in the theater 12. Go to a museum 13. Finish 1 punch needle project 14. Ski at least 1 day (ideally 2-4) 15. Try at least 1 new gym/in person fitness option 16. Make at least 1 new financial investment 17. Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. 18. Publish 1 knitting pattern 19. Send 5 cards to friends/family just because 20. Go Camping 21. Participate in the Fiberuary Challenge on Instagram 22. Take a class (in person or virtual) 23. Create a new music playlist

Word of the Year- FLOW flow * to proceed smoothly and readily to 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. -Akiroq Brost Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Megg’s 2nd Nanaimo Cardigan

• Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by by Tara-Lynn Morrison
• Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Colorway: Abalone (5 skeins)
• Needles: US 13 – 9.0 mm, US 15 – 10.0 mm, US 19 – 15.0 mm (body)
• Size XS/S
• Ravelry Project Page
• I added 2 sets of short rows before the bottom ribbing.

Hattie’s Cat Amigurumi

• Pattern: Siamese Cat Amigurumi by Mareeva Olga available on Ravelry, FireflyCrochet website & Etsy $6.40
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic from stash: Magenta with sparkle, Silver with sparkle, Purple.
• Ravelry Project Page

Friends in Fiber Socks

• Yarn: Friends in Fiber Superwash Merino Nylon (75/25) in the Fibery Jewels Teal Speckle Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• These were my New Year’s Cast on socks.
• 56 sts. 8.5 inches of knitting before starting the toe.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn
• Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair Watching:

• Severance on Apple TV+
• Ted Lasso on Apple TV+

Reading:

• The Vacationers by Emma Straub. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.
• The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. Bookshop Affiliate Link.
• Getting Me Cheap by Amanda Freeman & Lisa Dodson. Bookshop 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

• 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

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.
  • Check out the list of available Coupons 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 a December interception winner of a December participation prize winner.
  • January Self Care Interception: hosted by Fitness by Mara. Get your Bingo Card PDF Here or the JPG here. Find all of the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread.
  • 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 + Email the Lassonde family at: FearlessLivingFund@gmail.com + Follow Diane’s cancer diagnosis and treatment starting here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPseXZ0gqyU&t=0s + Learn more about the Blind Center of Nevada: https://www.blindcenter.org/ * 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.

– Francis Crick

——

Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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 * Hook: C (2.75 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Shrek * 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. * Hook: B (2.25 mm) * Ravelry Project Page. * I used the basic top down instructions from Lucy Collin's Han Solo pattern but made the face and belly bigger using increases and HDCs.

Abington Hat * Pattern: Abington Hat by Jennifer Lassonde ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts * Yarn: fingering held double. Knit Picks Capretta in the Sagebrush Colorway & Friends in Fiber sock yarn. * Needles: US 4 & US 6. * Size- Medium * Ravelry Project Page

Sugarplum Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sugarplum Colorway (Yarnable Subscription Box) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Belt for Mom's Wave of Change Cardigan * 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. * Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Perry's Socks * Yarn: Patons Kroy FX in the Cascade Colors colorway * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Woolens and Nosh Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page

Megg's 2nd Nanaimo Cardigan * Pattern: Nanaimo Cardigan by by Tara-Lynn Morrison * Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Colorway: Abalone (5 skeins) * Needles: US 13 - 9.0 mm, US 15 - 10.0 mm, US 19 - 15.0 mm (body) * Size XS/S * Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six by Lisa Unger. 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. 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. * We visited Blind Center of Nevada.

KAL News Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22 * Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. * Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Link to the Official Rules * Player Registration- Google Form * Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. + Check out the list of available Coupons 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- December Hat Interception: Iroc Knits & Windswept Designs
• 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 + Worksheets for Reviewing Your Year & Planning Your Year are available on my website: http://www.downcellarstudio.com/goals/

• I shared an update on my 22 for 2022 list

Ask Me Anything 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. –ZORA NEALE HURSTON ------ 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 Channel Email me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 244 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 243 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: * Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins * Brainstorming * From the Armchair * KAL News * Events * Contest, News & Notes * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works & 3 Stitches Short Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: F (3.75 mm) * You can find the project pages here- Nora's Ravelry Page & Colin's Ravelry Page

Musselburgh * 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor * Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock- leg & heel done. Nearly done with the foot.

Mermazing Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz. * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my Unboxing Video Here * Contrasting heel with LFA mini from my 2021 Advent Calendar * First sock done. On the leg of the second sock.

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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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.

Sagamore Flyover Cowl * Ravelry Project Page * A take-off on my Sagamore Flyover Hat available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts * Nearly done. Interested to block this to see what tweaks I want/need to make to improve the design.

Chemo Cap * Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Blackbird Colorway * Hook: G hook (4.5 mm) * No real pattern. Improvising using notes from one I made for my Aunt Florence on December 1, 2020. You can find that Ravelry Project Page Here.

Brainstorming * Musselburgh hat for my brother with self-striping yarn in Boston Bruins (hockey) colors once I've finished my first one to make sure I like the fit. * Socks and toys for Christmas gifts * Advent socks with my kit from Woolens & Nosh. * Travel packing- what to bring?!

From the Armchair * The Truth About Melody Brown by Lisa Jewell. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * These Precious Days by Ann Patchett. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * The White Lotus on HBO (Season 1)

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 * Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. * Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Link to the Official Rules * Player Registration- Google Form * 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
• Congrats to Ravelry User MostlyaLurker who won our October Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns.
• Reminder to finish up your November Interception hosted by Woolen Women Fibers. You can find the details in the Ravelry Group or in this Google doc Woolen Cafe Interception: Woolen Women Fibers
• 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- December Hat Interception: Iroc Knits & Windswept Designs
• 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. * I am planning to release Vlogmas videos on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel in December. Click here for my 2021 Vlogmas Playlist. or here for my 2020 Vlogmas Playlist.

Life in Focus * 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. * Check out this video where Mom shares more.

On a Happy Note * We had new railings installed. * Dan is very handy and was able to fix our broken water pump- even after power went out right after! * Vlogging with the girls. You can find the video here. * My aunt Florence came for a visit in a red convertible! * Playing Tock with Mom, Millie, Riley and Liz. * Decorating a Christmas Tree with Mom, Dad, Dan and the kids. Watching Elf & The Santa Clause * Playing with a new vlogging camera I purchased. The kids had a lot of fun with it too. * Family photos with Amanda Silva Photography. You can find a sneak peek in her Instagram Feed here.

Quote of the Week “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.” -- G. K. Chesterton ------ 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 Channel Email me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 242 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 * In my Travels * KAL News * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Star Knits, Adore Knit, Lolo Did It Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh Sprout 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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, tapue, lighter grass green, cream, pale green. * Yarn from Woolens & Nosh- Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor * Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs

Repaired the cuff on Mom’s Deja Blue Knit Picks Felici Socks from 2019. * Click here for my Ravelry Project Page. * 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. + Check out this page on Knitty for the details on this Bind Off.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Musselburgh * 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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf * Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White * Hook: G (4.00 mm) * Both stockings are joined & I’m working on the cuffs.

Mermazing Socks * Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz. * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * Check out my * Blues and greens and purples. * Contrasting heel with LFA mini from my 2021 Advent Calendar * Yarn from Pigskin Party Sponsors Hypnotic Yarn/Yarnable Box & Legacy Fiber Artz- both Snack Shack Sponsors * Project Bag from Anne Beady Designs (Pro Shop Sponsor) * Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished.

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) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Ravelry Project Page * 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 * Ravelry Project Page * 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 https://youtu.be/JmmjF1VcIGU + In this episode I shared just a few highlights. Some key links:

• Shameka‘s cupcakes that we bought at CAKEpalooza
• Rhinebeck sweaters- Mom and I each wore our Wave of Change Jackets. Click here for the Ravelry Project Page for Jen’s Sweater & the Ravelry Page for Mom’s sweater. On Sunday, I wore my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl. Mom wore her new Shift Cowl- click here for the Ravelry Project Page.
• Mom got to share her Scrapbox Challenge project with Crispina who hosted this challenge in March 2020
• Ross Farm Fiber Tour 2022 Shirts

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 * Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. * Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group * Link to the Official Rules * Player Registration- Google Form * 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
• First of the Pigskin Participation Prizes.
• The 10 Grand Prizes will be shared soon!
• Check out November’s Woolen Cafe Interception Challenge hosted by Woolen Women Fibers. You can find the details in the Ravelry Group or in this November- Woolen Cafe Interception: Woolen Women Fibers
• 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. https://youtu.be/AGyUgXLHXGo

On a Happy Note * Rhinebeck! * 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. -Hal Borland Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link * Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

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.

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
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors:

• Knit Style Yarn
• Woolen Women Fibers

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins The Shift (Cowl)

• Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
• Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
• Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Marled Wave of Change Jacket

• Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 8 – 5.0 mm, US 9 – 5.5 mm + US 10 – 6.0 mm
• Yarn
  • Marled effect achieved by holding yarn together.
  • 2 sock + 1 DK or worsted
  • 1 DK or worsted + 1 Aran
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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) + Check out this local Baltimore news story. + 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). * I also enjoyed episodes 1 & 2 of Rabia’s new podcast- Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case. * Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney Plus I adored it!

In My Travels * Riley, Mom & I enjoyed the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul. Check out video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. * Highlights- getting to see Cheryl & Jess from Hypnotic Yarn. Getting to see (and purchase) Pigskin sponsor Mcknits Yarn in person at Plymouth Harbor Knits * At Wicked Good Yarn in Rockland, MA we learned about the Open Studios Event coming up November 19th & 20th. Check out the event’s Facebook page for more details. * We learned about Locker Hooking at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland during the 2022 Cape and South Shore Yarn Haul. + The Color Crazy website has the mesh you need to make it and the crochet hook with the eye. Have you ever tried it? + You can buy a book about Locker Hooking on the Woolery’s website for $12. + Here’s a blog post that seems to cover the basics if you’re curious.

KAL News Pigskin Party’22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• 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!

Events * Rhinebeck – NY Sheep and Wool Festival. October 15 & 16. + CAKEpalooza: October 14 from 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. with ticketed & timed slots in Saugerties, NY * Rhinebeck Prep- check out this PDF for my best tips. * Rhinebeck- come see at 1p Saturday Podcaster Meet up on the Hill. Behind the Petting Zoo on the Map.

• EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details. The 5th annual Falling Leaves Sock KAL (knit along) runs from September 15-November 15. The official hashtag is #fallingleavessockkal2022

On a Happy Note * 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 4.15 skeins (705 grams)
• Started collar in September 2021. Then put it aside and didn’t pick up until Friday 9/23/22
• Realized I forgot decrease round before ribbing on the sleeves and had to rip those back to fix them.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mermazing Socks

• Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz.
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Check out my Unboxing Video Here
• Yarn from Pigskin Party Sponsors Hypnotic Yarn/Yarnable Box & Legacy Fiber Artz- both Snack Shack Sponsors
• Project Bag from Anne Beady Designs (Pro Shop Sponsor)

The Shift

• Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
• Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
• Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor

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)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, tapue, lighter grass green, cream, pale green.
• Mini for cuffs and heels- brown with cream speckles.
• Yarn from Woolens & Nosh- Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor
• Project Bag- Pigskin ’22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs

Sagamore Flyover Cowl

• Ravelry Project Page
• 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.

Brainstorming * Fidget Toys from Shanalines Designs- Ravelry Link & Payhip * I want to cast on all the things! * 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.

From the Armchair The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren. 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 * 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

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• 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.

Events * Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2. Check out their Event Website for details.Facebook Page available here. * Greater Boston Yarn Crawl– Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2 * Rhinebeck – NY Sheep and Wool Festival. October 15 & 16. + 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 * EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details. The official hashtag is #fallingleavessockkal2022

Life in Focus Tune in to hear an update on my 22 for 2022 list.

1. Go Skiing 1/18/22 Loon mountain + 2 days in February
2. Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)- Cowl in progress
3. Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
   • IDEAS FOR ME?
4. Read 22 novels – 15 as of September
5. Go to an art museum (travel in November- should be able to do this)
6. Buy something a little extravagant – new skiis & bindings 1/17/22
7. Meet with financial planner about new investments. Emailed 9/27
8. Do at least 1 yoga video per month Jan, Feb, March, April May, June, July, Sept (no August)
9. ~~Kayak at one new place- NOPE~~
10. Create the collage wall in my studio- purchased several items. Need to just pull the trigger.
11. Visit Eme at school (April 2022)
12. Try out the new trail on Grove Street -Sunday May 13, 2022
13. 2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
    • Laura visit in October. Maybe she wants to do this with me?
14. Purge & declutter the secretary
15. Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
    • IDEAS FOR ME?
16. Take a vacation/staycation before August (planned Saco trip & Northampton Concert trip for August)
17. Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings- April & September
18. Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed- scheduled 10/12
19. Hire a professional photographer for family photos- emailed in Sept.
20. Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
21. Go Apple Picking (on the calendar)
22. Hang a calendar in the dining room- done in February

On a Happy Note * Conor’s wedding (blog post available over on Patreon) * Decorating for Fall * Our friend Liz slept over so Dan could drive her to the airport very early the next morning. * Long morning walks on the weekend.

Quote of the Week

A library is a medicine cabinet. What can heal one person may not work at all for somebody else.

–SANDRA CISNEROS

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 239 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
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors:

• Woolen Women Fibers
• Cniotáil Láimhe Designs- Ravelry

Off 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.
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
• Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).
• 6,576 meters for Stash Dash

Baker Street Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Baker Street Colorway
• My Ravelry Project
• 278.6 meters for Stash Dash

Hat for Dad

• Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
• Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
• Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 225.6 meters for Stash Dash.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Solstice Socks

• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Mermazing Socks

• Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Check out my Unboxing Video Here

The Shift

• Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website)
• Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun
• Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Swatched- US 5, US 4 and finally US 3
• LOVE working with my handspun.

Cloudy + Rainbows Spinning Project

• 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.
• Plans: will likely ply with another braid.

Brainstorming * I should start 2 crochet stockings that I need to have done by Thanksgiving. * Planning another Shift Cowl for me! * Yarn recycling. Do you know of any options besides mailing scraps to Hedgehog Fibres?

Knitting in Passing Package from Sarah- the martini knitter . Fiber fill and yarn 2 blues Knitting will Millie megg and Hattie over the weekend.

KAL News Pigskin Party’22: Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• 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.

Virtual Kick Off Weekend-click here for the schedule

Events * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) ended August 31st * My final tally- 27,546 m + Compare to previous years - My best year ever! Beat 2020’s total by 71 meters) * 2021- 16,696. * 2020-27,475 * 2019- 16,355 * Funny how I bounce between 16k one year and 27 another! + 32 projects - 12 crochet. 14 knit, 6 skeins handspun - Crochet- 20,679 meters - Knit- 3,819 m - Spinning- 3,046 m + Types of Projects - 11 pairs socks - 6 skeins handspun - 5 Blankets (18, 524 m) - 4 cozies - 2 Tops (1 crop, 1 tunic bathing suit cover up) - 1 hat, 1 tie, 1 shawl, 1 toy,

Jasmin ended this year with 10,838 Meters. I beat her by 16,707 meters!!!

• Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
• 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!

Greater Boston Yarn Crawl– is also being held Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2

EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details.

Contest, News & Notes * Check out my Stash Dash projects in a 2 part series on my YouTube Channel- click here for Video 1 & Video 2 * September Yarnable Unboxing Video can be found here.

On a Happy Note * A quick visit from Laura in from NYC. * 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:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 238 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes, 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
• Crafty Adventures
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Events
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Uneek Christmas Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each.
• Ravelry Project Page
• 289.4 meters

Tweed Tie

• Pattern: Tweed Tie by Jem Weston- 4 GBP (around $5 US)
• Needles: US 2. (2.75) for body, US 3 (3.25 mm) for cast-on
• Yarn: Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Flagstone Heather colorway.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Greens: Malabrigo Nube Roving
• Ravelry Project Page
• 3 ply yarn 62 wraps around knitty noddy. 28 inches wide (or 56 inches around) after washing. 3,472 inches total or 96 yards or 88 meters
• 88×4 for Stash Dash = 352 meters

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• Mapped out gradation plan in Excel.
• 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.
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
• MC- 3 strands of gray
• Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).

Baker Street Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Baker Street colorway with Stroll Tonal in Navy for cuffs, heels & toe
• My Ravelry Project

Hat for Dad

• Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
• Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue)
• Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * 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)

From the Armchair Here’s to Us by Elin Hilderbrand. 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.

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.

KAL News #DCSPigskinParty22

• Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website.
• Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Link to the Official Rules
• Player Registration- Google Form
• Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. (COMING SOON)
  • Check out the list of availableCoupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link
  • Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread

Sponsors Signed up (so far)
Pro Shop:

• agirlandherwool
• Anne Beady Designs
• JDStudios480
• Imagined Landscapes
• Charming Ewe
• Adoreknit
• Knit Style Yarns
• Knitters Brewing Company
• Jennifer Lassonde Designs

Snack Shack

• Sunsoakedyarns
• Shanalines Designs
• KnittenKristen Designs
• Maple Roots Creative
• MollyHatChick
• Christen Clement Designs
• Fitness by Mara
• Desert Vista Dyeworks
• Mcknits

Virtual kick off events Friday through Sunday 9/23- 9/25. Stay tuned for details!

Welcome to our 3 new Commissioners this season!

• Heather (zoomdogknits)
• Emily- (ElsaandEm)
• Alicia (almariecraft)

Teams will be announced 9/5
Tailgate Talk Challenge– runs 9/9-9/23. Stay tuned for details

Events * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. + Discord link: knit girllls discord + Current standings with Jasmin - Jen: 20,465 meters (Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc.) - Jasmin: 10,838 meters (Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc)

• Rhinebeck – NY Sheep and Wool Festival. October 15 & 16.
• 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.

–PATTI SMITH

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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.
• Hook: I (5.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 586 grams
• 1172.0 meters for Stash Dash

Scrappy Europe Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway, Paton’s Kroy FX in the Geranium Colors Colorway and other fingering weight leftovers.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Leftovers from Megg’s Socks that I knit and left in Ireland in May and Marta’s socks that I knit in Scotland and Spain and leftt behind for Marta.
• Cate’s Clasp Weft join- check out this video on my YouTube Channel for the tutorial.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 60 grams. 238.8 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Spinning

• Malabrigo Nube Roving.113g combed top Merino wool. Colorway: 870 Candombe. 1 bobbin full.
• Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool.

Uneek Christmas Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each.
• Ravelry Project Page
• 1st sock done. 2nd is beyond the heel

Tweed Tie

• Pattern: Tweed Tie by Jem Weston- 4 GBP (around $5 US)
• Needles: US 2. (2.75) for body, US 3 (3.25 mm) for cast-on
• Yarn: Knit Picks Stroll Tonal in the Flagstone Heather colorway.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Omitting all increases//decreases to keep the bottom at the end of the tie flat not pointed.
• Modification: for the last stitch of each row, I am slipping purlwise with the yarn in front for a neater edge.

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.
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm)
• Holding all yarn triple. Clusters of treble crochet.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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.

From the Armchair * How the WILD EFFECT Turned Me into a Hiker at 69: An Appalachian Trail Adventure by Jane E. Congdon. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Grandma Gatewood’s Walk by Ben Montgomery. 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.

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. * Living my best life sleeping my hammock tent. * Trash collecting.

KAL News #SplashPadParty22

• Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
• Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
• View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
• Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
• Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Stats:

• 155 players entered
• 1022 projects finished & entered
  • 424 used around 50g
  • 357 used around 100g
  • 189 projects used around 200g!
  • 52 used around 150g
• 10 Pro Shop Sponsors
• 17 Snack Shack Sponsors
• 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.

Events * Summer Bingo hosted by Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + Starts friday evening may 27, ends Mon Sept 5 + Need to post a photo of completed Bingo with #CCRRsummerbingo2021 to Instagram or Ravelry * Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year! * Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022 * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. + Discord link: knit girllls discord + Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc. I’ve added 2,087.6 meters since last episode!!! + Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc

On a Happy Note * My friend Laura visited during the first weekend in August. Celebrated her birthday. She, Mom and I saw The Neil Diamond Musical; A Beautiful Noise in Boston. * 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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
• Ravelry Project Page
• 219.6 meters for Stash Dash

4 Crocheted Jar Cozies

• Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up in various colors
• Hook: G (4.25) for bottom and F (3.75 mm) for the sides
• Patterns: some are a take off on my Ball Band with a Twist pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
• Rainbow Ball Band with a Twist- Ravelry Project Page. 38.5 meters
• Improv Cluster Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 35.4 meters
• Teal Vanicream Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 40.7 meters
• Gray Vanicream Cozy- Ravelry Project Page. 41.6 meters

Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag #2

• Pattern: Rabbit in a Carrot Sleeping Bag by Laura Sutcliffe (2 GBP crochet pattern) $2.70 US
• Hook: 2.75 mm (C) for bunny & 3.25 mm (D) for sleeping bag
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted- gray, white, pink, orange and green colors
• Made one in February 2020 for my niece Hattie’s 2nd birthday. This is for Gabriella’s 2nd birthday
• Stuffing: mostly used the cotton that comes at the top of a new bottle of pills/OTC medicine.
• 84 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Malabrigo Nube Roving

• 113g combed top Merino wool
• Colorway: 870 Candombe
• Have at least 2. Maybe 3 of these.
• Purples, pinks, dusty pumpkin/mustard.
• Pre-drafting really helps.

Uneek Christmas Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Uneek Sock Yarn. Colorway 25- Xmas Limited Edition. 2 cakes 220 yards/200 meters each.
• Ravelry Project Page

Recollection Blanket

• Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms)
• Yarn: Various Fingering Weight Yarns from stash held triple. Yarns include (but not limited to)- Legacy Fiber Artz, Yarnable, Goosey Fibers, Knitters Brewing Company, Cascade, Knit Picks Felici.
• Hook: J (6.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• Mapped out gradation plan in Excel.
• Need:- 132 dark gray & 128 light gray. Completed: 203 of 260

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.
• Hook: I (5.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * Unlost by Gail Muller. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. * Becoming Odyssa: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail by Jennifer Pharr Davis. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. * A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. * 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.

KAL News #SplashPadParty22

• Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
• Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
• View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
• Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form

• Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

• 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!

Events * Summer Bingo hosted by Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + Starts friday evening may 27, ends Mon Sept 5 + Need to post a photo of completed Bingo with #CCRRsummerbingo2021 to Instagram or Ravelry * Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year! * Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022 * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. * Discord link: knit girllls discord * Tune in to hear if Jen or Jasmin is currently in the lead! + Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc + Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc

Ask Me Anything * Mazzygirl1- How is your sweet Mom doing? * Pebblesgirlcrafts- This isn’t podcast related but would ever do a sock drawer tour on YouTube? * Genna-with-a-Gee- What are your favorite sources of crafting inspiration? Crafts, YouTube etc?YouTube Channels: Legacy Fiber Artz, Knitty Natty, Earthtones Girl, Stitching the High Notes.Scrolling Instagram. Photos in Ravelry Chat Thread.

On a Happy Note * Visit with Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz & Sharon from Knit Style Yarns * 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.

-Martha Graham

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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)
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Knit i-cord for belt. 3 sts with US 8 DPNs.
• 1195.6 meters for Stash Dash

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Malabrigo Nube Roving

• 113g combed top Merino wool
• Colorway: 870 Candombe
• Pre-drafting really helps. darkest dye sections are usually the most condensed.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• *7/14 update- 99 light gray. 80 dark gray- 179 total (of 260)- 81 left

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
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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

From the Armchair This Is My Brain In Love by I.W. Gregorio 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 * 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.

KAL News #SplashPadParty22

• Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
• Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
• View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
• Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
• Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Events * Summer Bingo hosted by Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + Starts friday evening may 27, ends Mon Sept 5 + 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! * Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year! * Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022 * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. * Discord link: knit girllls discord * Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc * Jasmin’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc + Queue the Duck Boats * 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:

1. 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
2. Say Yes to time spent with Mom – that’s going well!
3. 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. * Zero Refills No waste store in Cohasset, MA. * 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

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 234 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
• Some Years Later
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Love Letters Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL in the Love Letters Colorway
• Ravelry Project Page
• Meters for Stash Dash= 232.6

Blue/Green/Yellow 3 ply handspun

• 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.
• Ravelry Project Page
• Meters for Stash Dash= 464

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 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
• I wanted a bobble edging (inspired by this blanket). I used this free blog tutorial for the bobble border.
• Ravelry Project Page
• Stash Dash Meters- 1,095.2

Psychedelic Sunset Felici Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Psychedelic Rainbow Colorway
• Ravelry Page
• Stash Dash Meters: 252.7

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Shawl Design

• Yarn: 150g skein of fingering weight from agirlandherwool in the On the Boardwalk.
• Pattern: in progress
• Update: I am not happy with how decreases are laying on the decrease side so I’ll rip back and redo.

Felici Socks (3 in progress)

• 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)

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• 162 done of 260= 62% done.

Malabrigo Nube Roving- Spinning Project

• 113g combed top Merino wool
• Colorway: 870 Candombe

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
• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * 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. + Project Linus MA + Warm Up America + Knots of Love

From the Armchair The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

The Mother-In-Law by Sally Hepworth. 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.

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.

KAL News #SplashPadParty22

• Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
• Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
• View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
• Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
• Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

Tune in to hear if you won a June Participation Prize!

Events * Summer Bingo hosted by Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast + Starts friday evening may 27, ends Mon Sept 5 + 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-hosting an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern! * Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year! * Woolen Women Fibers Rock It Tee KAL. Check out this post on Instagram for details. Runs May 7-July 30th. * Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022 * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. Discord link: knit girllls discord

Stash Dash Update:

• Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
• 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

Thank you for tuning in!

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

• 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.
• Ravelry Project Page
• 264.0 meters for Stash Dash
• Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.
• Don’t forget- Yarnable/Hypnotic Yarn is a Snack Shack Sponsor

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 238.0 meters for Stash Dash

Rainbow Crochet Crop

• Pattern: 100% improvised.
• Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry
• Hook: E (3.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 482 g used. 719.7 meters for Stash Dash.

3 ply yarn in Blues & Greens

• Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool.
• Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis.

• Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues.

• 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.
• Ravelry Project Page

Love Letters Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL in the Love Letters Colorway
• Ravelry Project Page

Felici Socks (4 in progress)

• 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)

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway, Patons Kroy in the Gentry Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• As of 6/14: 95 light gray, 27 dark gray – 112 total

Brainstorming Stash Dash Planning

I’m brainstorming baby blanket options

• Snuggle Bean Blanket by Little Duck Crochet available on Etsy & Ravelry Link ($5 US)
• Abacus Blanket by Susan Carlson available on LoveCrafts & Ravelry & Etsy ($6 US)
• or maybe a simple corner to corner (C2C) crochet blanket?

From the Armchair * Hooked and Booked podcast with AJ of KJKrochet, South Africa * Crochet Conversations Inez and Mell from Singapore * Heard about both of these from the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast.

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. 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 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.

KAL News #SplashPadParty22

• Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx
• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here
• Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link).
• View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats
• Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form
• Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen.

On this episode I talked about:

• Thanks to everyone who joined our May 30th Kick Off.
• Thursday June 23rd at 8p Eastern we’re doing another Zoom hangout for Patrons at the$5 level and up. Check out the details here.
• Splash Pad ’22 logo bags are available from Woolen Women Fibers. Check out their knit kits here or sock sets here.

Events * Sock Week with Knitty Natty. July 10-17th. I’ll be co-hosting an event with Natalie on Tuesday July 12th at 8p Eastern! * Summer Sock Camp hosted by Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady YouTube Channel. The KAL runs 5/28/22 – 8/31/22 this year! * 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. * Woolen Women Fibers Rock It Tee KAL. Check out this post on Instagram for details. Runs May 7-July 30th. * Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Summer Spin In. June 1-September 5th. Find their Ravelry Group thread here. #SummerSpinIn2022 * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. + Discord link: knit girllls discord

Stash Dash Update:

• Jen’s Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc
• 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.

–May Sarton

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 232 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
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns & Fibernymph Dye Works Note- there will be only one episode in May 2022. Talk to you again in June (or join us May 30th for our Splash Pad Virtual Kick Off)

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mom’s Zen Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Zen Colorway
• Ravelry Project Page

2 Tiny Turtles

• Pattern: Little Miss Turtle by Diana Moore (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on the PinkMouseBoutique website)
• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis in various greens
• Hook: B 2.25 m
• Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 1
• Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 2

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Spinning:

• Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool & 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.

Scrappy Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway + fingering weight scraps
• Ravelry Project Page
• 3 rounds with yarn held double
• 75 hexagons completed to date

Double Dog Dare Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway
• Ravelry Project Page

Pumpkin Patch Socks

• 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.
• Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.
  • 2 recent Unboxing Videos- check out April & May on YouTube.

Brainstorming Shawl idea forming. Maybe a new design? Maybe a disaster? Time will tell.

From the Armchair * The Invisible Kingdom: Reemerging Chronic Illness by Meghan O’Rourke. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid (narrated by Julia Whelan) 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 * 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!

KAL News * Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx * Participant Sign Up- Google Form * 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 Splash Pad Exclusive Items here * Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link). * View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats * Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form * Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen. * Join our Virtual Kick Off Events Monday May 30th. Click here for a Google Doc with the full schedule.

Events * Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. + Discord link: knit girllls discord

On a Happy Note * Scituate Salt Cave + 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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

Perry’s Hat

• Pattern:Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
• Yarn: Berroco Vintage in the Dungaree Colorway
• Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I realized i don’t do all the decreases correctly. I work them every other round until the end.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket

• Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial
• Hook: 10 mm (N/P) hook
• Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick- Solids, Stripes and Prints (colorways used, Wheat, Seaglass, Slate, Fern, Coney Island and
• Ravelry Project Page
• My hexagons are 3 rounds each- 2 with color (earth tones, mostly gray/blue/green), last round with Wheat.

Brainstorming I’m looking for a necktie pattern to knit up for my friend Liz. She’d like one with a squared off bottom (not the V bottom)

From the Armchair Weaving the Rainbow written by George Ella Lyon & illustrated by Stephanie Anderson-Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link

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. * Aila love her A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers My Ravelry Project Page * I shared a story about knitting with Eme’s roommate Zi.

In My Travels * Visit to the Berkshires with the kiddos for Riley, Aila & Eme’s birthdays * We visited Hancock Shaker Village + Baby animal petting through May 8, 2022 * Riley, Aila and Eme wanted to record a bit to tell you about our adventures.

KAL News Splash Pad Party ’22

* Official Rules-  Google Doc

• Participant Sign Up- Google Form
• Check out our Sponsors- Google Doc
• Want to be a Sponsor? Please email me before 5/5- downcellarstudio at gmail dot com

On a Happy Note * Date night with Dan the local Brewery. * Day trip to Visit Eme. Dan drove. I knit on the way there and then was motion sick the whole way home! * Easter! * Ihecked out nail salon near my house and they were great. * Dinner with Mom, Dad & Mom’s eBay friends.

Quote of the Week

“Sometimes magic is just someone spending more time on something than anyone else might reasonably expect.”

-Raymond Joseph Teller

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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
• Hook: G (4.00 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Various Fingering Weight leftovers including Knit Picks Felici
• Needles: US 1 5(2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Kris’ birthday socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Berocco Sox in the Rosehearty colorway
• My Ravelry Project Page

Eme’s 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
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Pumpkin Patch Socks

• 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.
• Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.

Perry’s Hat

• Pattern:Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website)
• Yarn: Berroco Vintage in the Dungaree Colorway
• Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Spinning:

• 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
• Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
• Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
• My Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. 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.

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 * I wore a fabulous dress I got second hand at the Second 2 None Consignment Shop in Hanover, MA

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 * Info Page for Sponsors on my Website- click here * 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.

-Morgan Freeman

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 229 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
• Some Years Later
• Crafty Adventures
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: The Yarn Sellar. Check out their Fiber Marketplace on Saturday 4/9/22 in York Beach Maine!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Kris’ Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
A’s Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Various Fingering Weight leftovers including Knit Picks Felici
• Needles: US 1 5(2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Eme’s 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
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Pumpkin Patch Socks

• 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.
• Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box.

Sagamore Flyover Cowl

• Pattern: in draft
• Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
• Yarn: Sugarbush Dawson in the Graphite Gray Colorway- 50% Llama/50% Merino 100 grams, 151 meters
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Ribbing, mistake rib used in my Sagamore Flyover Hat pattern.

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! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White
• Hook: G (4.00 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link * Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. + I heard about this one on interview with the author on the Bad on Paper Podcast * 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 * Info Page for Sponsors on my Website- click here * Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon

Life in Focus * Thanks to Nikki for telling us about the Hiking Project App (available for Apple & Android) * I shared an update on my plan to incorporate 20 min of movement/4 times per week into my life and a check in on my word for the year PAUSE.

Ask Me Anything * Tune in to hear more about killing acrylic. Check out this blog post from Sew Homey who found using a hair dryer to flatten acrylic worked best.

On a Happy Note * Something Rotten Musical * Garret’s birthday sleepover * St. Patrick’s Day with my cousins * Tom visiting from Ireland * A weeknight sleepover with Riley, Garret & Millie. Snuggles and reading Ply magazine from Suzanne during the kids’ reading time before bed. * Oscar party * Dress shopping with Mom * Immersive Frida Exhibit in Boston with Melissa

Quote of the Week 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.”

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Bunny fix

• Ravelry Project Page
• Pattern: Best Bunny by Tamie Oldridge. Free crochet pattern from Lion Brand. Available as a PDF directly- click here.
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Yarn: Berrocco Vintage in purple. Repaired with Knit Picks Brava Worsted
• Knit in October 2016

Milly Doll Makeover

• Pattern: Mary, Millie & Morgan by Susan B. Anderson
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Knit in 2015.
• 7 years later she’s getting a makeover.

Garret’s Nana Blanket

• My Ravelry Project Page
• Hook: I (5.5. mm)
• Yarn: likely Red Heart Super Saver
• Fixing Garret’s Nana blanket. I shared more on a blog post on my Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• I used the Crumpled Griddle stitch, which I believe is what my Nana used, to redo the side panel that I ripped back.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Ravelry Project Page

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
• Hook: G (4.00 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

2022 Fun with Fiber

• Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece (light blues, dark blues and whites)
• Check them out on Facebook
• Check out my Ravelry Project Page
• Mom’s tried on Jessica’s Shift Cowl- pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry available for $7 on Ravelry. I might turn some handspun into this project.

Brainstorming Inspired by PliedYarnCo’s Instagram post- this Log Cabin Pillow. Check out this free pattern “Little Log Cabins Recipe” on their website.

From the Armchair Love is Blind Season 1 on Netflix

Some Years Later * Mezzo Cardigan by Alexis Winslow. $9 US Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry or directly from their website. * Knit in March/April 2018 * My Ravelry Project Page * 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!

• Caesious by Hunter Hammersen
• 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 * Purchases- + Fibery Jewels Teal Speckle Sock Yarn + 4 oz of Falkland Fiber Jewels Spots + Friends in Fiber on Etsy + 2 skeins of Lillian from Dirty Water Dyeworks- in Mediterranean and Sea Breeze + Subito Farms yarn for Millie- pink yarn gradient set- 35 yards each pf the pinks and 90 yards natural- 100% cormo raised in Montana, dyed in MA + A Hundred Ravens for Millie- Vanir 100% merino DK in the Fantasia Colorway * Lunch across the street at The Local afterwards

Visited The Goodwill Bins location in Hudson, NH. Life in Focus * 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.

–James Baldwin

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 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.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Hook: G (4.00 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming 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. * We visited Woodstock Inn & Brewery and One Love Brewery. * We checked out the Three on the Tree Boutique- check out their Instagram feed. * We went to the Ice Castles which was so cool. * We played Penny Drop- available on Amazon (Affiliate Link). * Riley practiced with her new Cat Eye Stamp using the iMethod Eyeliner Stamp- click here for my Amazon Affiliate Link

KAL News Pigskin Party ’21: is officially over! WOW!

• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• 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.
• Updates also shared to CaringBridge if you’d like to subscribe- https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/dianelassonde

On a Happy Note * Random dance parties during Ski weekend. * I only fell once skiing in two days! * Sharing IPAs with my brother. * 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 226 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. 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
• Contest, News & Notes
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Dotted Rays

• Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Marroon- Handspun
• Ravelry Project Page
• The sleeves were too long so I ripped back after the cuff, then did the kitchener stitch in the round to reattach to the sleeve.
• Check out this video I used to learn how to do the Kitchener Stitch in the Round
• Vlog January 29 & 30th – shared a little bit of the process.

Fear Less Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Emma’s Yarn Practically Perfect Sock in the Knit & Stitch Colorway
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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.
• Knit & Stitch Boutique in Cocoa Village, FL
• I stitched Fear & Less just before the toes on each sock using stranded color work and a basic chart I made in Excel.

Boujee New Years Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Yarnable by Hypnotic Yarn in the Boujee New Year Colorway (January 2022 Subscription Box colorway)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

Ball Band Cozy

• Pattern: Ball Band by Jennifer Lassonde (free crochet pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts).
• Yarn: Aqua- Lion Brand re-up. Green- other kitchen cotton of unknown origin
• Hook:
• My Ravelry Project Page

Citrus Hat

• Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Zen Colorway
• Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
• Size: Adult small which is 96 sts. 20″ circumference but I know from experience this cast on count should work.
• 2×2 rib then a 6×2 rib
• Stripes- blues, greens, grays.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Gift for my brother’s 40th birthday!

Heart Garland

• Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern available on this blog)
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• Yarn: Knitters Brewing Company Brewski Worsted
• Gift for my friend Liz.

Mom’s Card Heart Garland

• Pattern: Heart Garland by Sarahndipities Designs (free crochet pattern available on this blog)
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted & other worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash- blues, greens, yellows, white and silver.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Gift for Mom for all of the cards she’s received recently.

February Yarnable Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Raspberry Creme Colorway (February Yarnable Subscription Box colorway)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Garret’s Nana Blanket

• My Ravelry Project Page
• Fixing Garret’s Nana blanket. I shared more on a blog post on my Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Caribbean Blue Handspun Cowl- frogged

• Yarn: Handpun made with Merino Fiber from Beesy Bee Fibers on Etsy in Caribbean Hues Colorway. 5 colors greens/blues. 3 ply yarn
• Needles: US 7 (4.5)
• Pattern: None- playing around with stitch pattern for potential design. didn’t love it.
• My Ravelry Project Page

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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.

From the Armchair The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley. 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 * Kris legwarmer sock. It fits. Now that I know that, I can make second. * Knitting at local brewery turned into a conversation! * Finished up my Ice Time Hat Class. * I visited Staci’s Stitches for the Hypnotic Yarn trunk show last weekend.

KAL News Pigskin Party ’21:

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!

Contest, News & Notes * Vlog– Vlog January 29 & 30th * February Yarnable Unboxing Video.

On a Happy Note

• We got about 2 feet of snow in 1 storm during the last weekend in January
• Decorating my very boring laptop shell with stickers
• Netflix Series: The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window
• Mom’s birthday. Sleepover. Spa day. Shopping lunch. Dinner. Presents every couple hours. So much fun!
• Some good news at mom’s recent appointment with her Oncologist.
• My brother Jeff’s birthday fun at Dave and Busters.
• Rachel kindly sent me a gift card to try out Silk and Sonder monthly journal.
• Wordle– I’m enjoying it! Are you?

Quote of the Week “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.”~ Albert Pike

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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)
• Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 5 (3.75 mm)
• Size: Adult Medium
• My Ravelry Project Page

Costume Party Socks

• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Plied 2 skeins of yarn:

• Three Waters Fiber- Forested Hills Colorway- 4 ozs. Split into 3rds but didn’t weigh anything.
• Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway
• Washed it but I still need to measure, weight etc.
• Check out my Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mr. Fezziwig Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol
• Finished the first sock

Emma’s Yarn Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Emma’s Yarn Practically Perfect Sock in the Knit & Stitch Colorway from Knit & Stitch Boutique in Cocoa Village, FL
• My Ravelry Project Page

Boujee New Years Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Yarnable by Hypnotic Yarn in the Boujee New Year Colorway (January 2022 Subscription Box colorway)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

Dotted Rays

• Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

2022 Fun with Fiber

• Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece (light blues, dark blues and whites)
• Liz from Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works very kindly sent this braid, and a few others, for me to try out.
• Check them out on Facebook
• 1 bobbin full. Started second.
• Check out my Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair * In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. * Makers Gonna Sell Podcast Cheryl Ham of Hypnotic Yarn and Nicki Avery of Avery Lane Creations.

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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.”

—Mark Twain

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 224 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Click here for full show notes & photos on my website.

This week’s segments included:

• Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• Brainstorming
• KAL News
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Perry’s Vase Cozy

• Pattern: none
• Yarn: Lily Sugar n’ Cream (teal color)
• Hook: 4.5 mm
• My Ravelry Project Page

Ripped back and repaired toe of Mom’s Patons Kroy Deep End Socks. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 2022 Fun with Fiber

• Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works 100% Tunis Pete’s Fleece (light blues, dark blues and whites)
  • Check them out on Facebook
• 1 bobbin nearly full.
• Check out my Ravelry Project Page
• I shared information from the Livestock Conservancy & from Northwest Yarns.

Citrus Hat

• Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Zen Colorway
• Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) and US 6 (4.0 mm)
• Size: Adult small which is 96 sts. 20″ circumference but I know from experience this cast on count should work.
• My Ravelry Project Page

Dotted Rays

• Pattern: Dotted Rays by Stephen West (Knitting pattern available on Ravelry for 6 Euros ~$7 US. Also available on Gumroad.)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Capretta Superwash in the Sagebrush colorway, Knit Picks Palette in Wonderland Heather, Opal Heather, Caribbean, Seafaring, Spruce.
• Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

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)
• Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 5 (3.75 mm)
• Size: Adult Medium
• My Ravelry Project Page

Emma’s Yarn Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Emma’s Yarn Practically Perfect Sock in the Knit & Stitch Colorway
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Knit & Stitch Boutique in Cocoa Village, FL

Bayou Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Bayou Colorway
• My Ravelry Project Page
• New Years Eve cast on based on ones you all selected on Instagram
• Want to try Knit Picks? Please consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Mr. Fezziwig Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Corriedale Sock in the Mr. Fezziwig Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol

Brainstorming Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Marroon- Handspun
• Ravelry Project Page
• Finished before the last episode. Blocked it again and the sleeves are too long.
• I am going to wash and block again, but there’s a 95% chance I’ll be ripping back the sleeves by a good 4-5 inches.

KAL News Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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 2022 List

Check out this episode of Happier with Gretchen Rubin to hear more about this project.

1. Go Skiing (from 2021)
2. Knit a garment out of handspun (from 2021)
3. Spend at least two hours learning something new (on my own, in a class, YouTube videos etc)
4. Read 22 novels
5. Go to an art museum
6. Buy something a little extravagant
7. Meet with financial planner about new investments.
8. Do at least 1 yoga video per month
9. Kayak at one new place
10. Create the collage wall in my studio
11. Visit Eme at school
12. Try out the new trail on Grove Street
13. 2nd Annual Nora Ephron Movies Day
14. Purge & declutter the secretary
15. Plan and go on at least 1 date with Dan that involves going at least 1 place we don’t “normally” go
16. Take a vacation/staycation before August
17. Buy a fabulous new dress to wear to weddings
18. Have my car’s backup camera checked out & ideally fixed
19. Hire a professional photographer for family photos
20. Spend a weekend with Laura (in NY or MA)
21. Go Apple Picking
22. 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 * My January Yarnable Box! Check out the video on my YouTube Channel * Yoga with Adriene: Move- A 30 Day Yoga Journey. Check out the Playlist on YouTube. I’ve done 4 so far. * SNOW! We got a good 7-8 inches and it was beautiful. * Fun dinner, post-Christmas but still exchanging gifts with friends, and Yahtzee playing game night at Mom’s last Saturday. * I’ve kept my succulent alive for 1 whole year! * Started teaching my Ice Time Hat Class at Staci’s Stitches this week. I won’t be teaching again this year, but I will keep you posted if that changes. * An impromptu dinner and game night at mom’s this Thursday.

Quote of the Week New Year- new verse, new chapter, or just the same old story? Ultimate we write it. The choice is ours.

-Alex Morritt.

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View 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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Crochet Squirrel

• Pattern: Crochet Squirrel by Junuen Lisunia (free crochet pattern on Ravelry)
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Yarn: Worsted Weight Acrylic from stash in light brown and dark brown
• Ravelry Project Page

Among Us- Blue

• Pattern- Among Us Amigurumi by Tiffany Horton- free crochet pattern available on her website or $2.50
• Yarn: Knit Picks Brava
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Camp Out Fingerless Mitts

• Pattern: Camp Out Fingerless Mitts by tante ehm- Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry.
• Yarn: Fully Spun Sock Yarn in the Blue Hole Colorway (blue) with a strand of fingering weight Corriedale handspun yarn.
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Mom’s Christmas Headband

• Pattern: 108-18 Knitted Hair Band by DROPS Design. Free Pattern available from DROPS website & on Ravelry.
• Yarn: Fully Spun Sock Yarn in the Blue Hole Colorway (blue) with a strand of fingering weight Corriedale handspun yarn.
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Riley’s Christmas Cardigan

• Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
• Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
• Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Pattern calls for Seed Stitch but I’m just using the basic instructions and using cables and ribbing for the body/sleeves.
• For the front bands I did HDC through back/front loop.

Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Marroon- Handspun
• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming

• 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)

Crochet- 38 projects. Knitting 52 projects

Click here for a link to my 2021 Ravelry Projects Tab.

Some Years Later 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.
• Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Misty Gray Colorway
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Crafty Adventures * 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.

Ask Me Anything * Shana “Savers, duh!”- Check out the Christmas Thrifting Video on my YouTube Channel. * 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!” + Crochet School Videos on the Crafty Minx Website * 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.”

-Ann Hastings

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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)
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Check out Day 10 of my Vlogmas Videos to see the shawl after blocking.

Gnomes of the Gnorth

• Pattern: Gnomes of the Gnorth by Sue Perez (free crochet pattern on Ravelry & website). Video tutorial available on YouTube.
• Hook: B
• Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Riley’s Christmas Cardigan

• Pattern: Everyday Cardigan in Merino No. 5 by Loopy Mango
• Needles: US 15 (10 mm)
• Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green (sage color)
• My Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.

Life in Focus Diane, Jen’s Mom, shared the troubling news of her lung cancer diagnosis. Click here for more information about this cancer that’s caused by an EGFR mutation.

On a Happy Note * Riley & Millie’s Christmas Panto * Jenny & the Pajamas * Helen! * 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.”

-Louise Erdrich

Thank you for tuning in.
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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
• Eyes: from 6060 on Etsy- similar to these.

Sweet & Sour Socks

• Yarn: hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet & Sour colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Christmas Stocking for Peyton

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
• Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red, Red Heart Super Saver Solids in Hunter Green and White
• Hook: F (3.75mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Crochet Christmas Tree

• Pattern: None
• Yarn: White Acrylic Worsted Weight Yarn, Red Heart Scrubby Sparkle in the Marshmallow Colorway, Caron Simply Soft Party in the Snow Sparkle Colorway
• Hook: H (5.0 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Dance Shoe Legwarmers

• Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern)
• Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Click here for Wiki page on Mr. Fezziwig from A Christmas Carol

Mermaid Tail Socks

• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Mermaid Tail colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Aila Grace Shawl

• Pattern: Aila Grace by Jennifer Lassonde
• Yarn: Into the Whirled Gloucester Sock in the Ramble Colorway (oranges, reds, pinks, purples)
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * Indie GAL patterns I purchased during Sale: + Favorite Flannel Hat by Alicia Plummer- Ravelry Link to Pattern + Rotvalli Mitts by Karoliina H Designs (around $3.30 US)- Ravelry Pattern link * Stocking for my cousin Chris’ fiancée * I was given a lot of wool fabric in 1-2 inch strips. What should I use them for? Braided rug? weaving? Punch needle?

From the Armchair 1. Soundtracks by Jon Acuff. Started 10/31. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. 2. The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. 3. The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link.

Gee Thanks… just bought it. Podcast

Crafty Adventures Crafting with Eme and Aila. Yarn covered styrofoam trees

• Made with recycled plastic
• Some yarn from Savers
• Lion brand Wool Ease
• Red Heart Scrubby. Looks like lights and or tinsel

Girls made jewelry. Aila glued embroidery floss to match box cars for ornaments. Will cover hot glue with clay Aila embroidery box

Knitting in Passing I share a story about a text from my friend Laura who received a comment in public about her hand knit socks.

KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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

• Check out Shana’s Ravelry bundle for ideas!

• 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) + Check out the Indie Design GAL Ravelry Group + Coupon Code: giftalong2021 * Fasten-off Yarn-A-Long Event– kicks off 11/30. 25% off Sale ends 12/6. KAL runs through December 31st. + 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 Virtual Knitting Live– December 9-12. * 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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

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
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Anne Beady Designs on Ravelry & Etsy, Charming Ewe & Imagined Landscapes

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Socks

• Yarn: Knit Picks Static in the Neptune Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Mermaid

• Pattern: Melody Mermaid Amigurumi by Chiara Cremon (free crochet pattern)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Minis in Cream (body/face), Paprika (hair), Marina (tail)
• Hook: B 2.25 mm
• Ravelry Project Page

Little Astronaut

• Pattern: Little Astronaut by Valto Ekaterina ($4.50 crochet pattern- also available on Etsy)
• Hook: B 2.25 mm
• Yarn: White & Black worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash
• Ravelry Project Page
• Work arms & legs. Put aside. work head, neck. great instructions on how to attach limbs as you go.

Mended: Camp Out Fingerless Mitts

• Ravelry Project Page
• Free Knitting Pattern by tante ehm
• I used Berrocco Ultra Alpaca
• These would be great for the Nov Interception if you haven’t already found a pattern for that!

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Costume Party Socks

• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Sweet & Sour Socks

• Yarn: hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet & Sour colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Christmas Stocking for Peyton

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stocking by Family Circle Magazine 1977 (not available online anymore)
• Yarn: Patons Classic Worsted in Bright Red, Red Heart Super Saver Solids in Hunter Green and White
• Hook: F (3.75mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Marroon- Handspun
• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * Little Toy Frog by Julia Ka. Ravelry Link. Etsy Link. $2.60 Crochet Pattern. * Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon- Ravelry Link (free knitting pattern). * Check out the Pigskin Sponsor Ravelry Bundle ideas for gifts. Tip (sort by Yarn used) + 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.

From the Armchair The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan

• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Amazon Affiliate Link

The Bookshop on the Shore by Jenny Colgan

• 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 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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) + Check out the Indie Design GAL Ravelry Group * 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 Virtual Knitting Live– December 9-12. * 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!

• Craft Fair
  • Rooster made from dyed eggshells and silicone.
  • Button Earrings from Caren Kinne Studios. Website. Instagram: carenkinnestudio
• Fiesta Bar and Grill
• Bistro Box– great outdoor lunch. Long line but worth the wait. Even the hungry girls agreed.
• Patisserie Lenox on Main Street in Great Barrington
• 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

Thank you for tuning in.

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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. 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 * Life in Focus * On a Happy Note * Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Fall is My Favorite Socks * Yarn: Woolens and Nosh sock in the Fall is my Favorite Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams * Ravelry Project Page

Whatits Galore Socks * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whatits Galore Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams * Ravelry Project Page * Want to try Felici? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link * I found the first sock & finished the second!

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Pink Moon Sweater * Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site. * Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm) * Yarn: * + Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019 + Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day's Russell's Market January 2020 + mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019 + Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci's Stitches- LYS + Marroon- Handspun * A little bit of lace in the yoke above the colorwork- Pink held double w/ alpaca. First time using a fuzzy yarn * Ravelry Project Page * Finished yoke & tried it on.

Spinning * Rhapsody Fiber Arts Marina Roving: 50% Angora/50% Merino. 2 oz * No colorway name

Baker Street Socks * Yarn: Knit Picks Felici and in the Baker Street Colorway & Knit Picks Stroll in Navy * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams * Ravelry Project Page

Costume Party Socks * Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Sock in the Costume Party Colorway (75% SW Merino/25% nylon) * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams * Ravelry Project Page

Static Socks * Yarn: Knit Picks Static in the Neptune Colorway * Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) * Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams * First sock 36g. 10 inches from cuff to start of heel flap and about a 10.5 inch foot. 56 sts/ 8 sts per inch gauge. * Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming * Cozy Winter Sweater Wreath- Ravelry Link to Pattern * + Heard about this on the Imagined Landscapes Podcast Episode 125. * Among Us characters requested by Millie. She selected this pattern of those available on Ravelry- Ravelry Pattern Link. * Alien for Oisin & a toy for Hattie (no specific patterns in mind yet) * Socks for Megg * Riley- said she wants something to match me... need to chat more about that. * I need to solicit toy/other knits requests for other kids

I am planning to donate the hats I knit to Donate Snap Hats to Knit the Rainbow All garments can be delivered to KtR at the address below either by mail or via scheduled drop-off. 456 W 167th St. Unit 1D New York, NY 10032 From the Armchair * The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai- still reading but very much enjoying. * + Bookshop Affiliate Link + Amazon Affiliate Link * Liz (knittykitties) recommended - Hooked: How Crafting Saved My Life by Sutton Foster * + Bookshop Affiliate Link + Amazon Affiliate Link

In My Travels * Tune in to hear about our recent family trip to Florida- including Disney World!

KAL News Pigskin Party '21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21 Important Links: * Official Rules (Google Doc) * Register to Play! (Google Form) * Points Tally Form (Google Form) * Sponsor List (Google Doc) * Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com) * Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread * 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.

Check out the details of the November Interception: * Fancy Footwork Challenge hosted by Shanalines Designs- Ravelry Link or Website Link * Check out Shana's Ravelry bundle for ideas!

The October Interception Winner will be announced on the next episode. Events Fiber Festival of New England- November 6 & 7th Springfield, MA Life in Focus Tune in to hear my update on my 21 for 2021 list. On a Happy Note * Disney- a very generous gift from my parents. * Riding rides with the kids at Disney! * Visiting my cousins Gayle and Meagan, especially seeing Gayle's new place and the area where she's building her new house. * Woodchopping weekend * October zoom with Patrons. I am so grateful for you and always have a blast hanging out. Check out my Patreon Page for more details. * The Yarnaics talked about wearing a shawl a day in October. I got a late start but am enjoying wearing them (almost) daily. * I purchased an Apple Watch! Any tips, app suggestions or things I should know?

Quote of the Week "Progress is not possible with deviation." Frank Zappa Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: * Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! * Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group * Instagram: BostonJen1 * YouTube: Down Cellar Studio * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio * Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio * Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Knit Picks Affiliate Link * Bookshop Affiliate Link * Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ * 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.

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 218 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.

This week’s segments included:

• On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Marroon- Handspun
• A little bit of lace in the yoke above the colorwork- Pink held double w/ alpaca. First time using a fuzzy yarn
• Ravelry Project Page
• I have about 6-10 rounds of colorwork left! So addictive. Have had to stop and make myself stretch and then switch to another project.

Fall is My Favorite Socks

• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh sock in the Fall is my Favorite Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Yarn: Woolens and Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor for the Pigskin Party- 40 points
• Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop – 40
• Project Bag: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
• 100 points + yardage
• First sock is done. Cuff on the second is nearly done!

Millie Margaret Shawl (worsted)

• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Millie Margaret Kit (Pigskin Party Exclusive) in the Ashenvale Colorway
  • 3 100g skeins of Woolens & Nosh. 2 skeins of the Ashenvale self-striping for either end. 1 skein of the dusty purple for the center panel.
• Needles: US 10 (6.0 mm)
• Pattern: Millie Margaret (worsted) by Jennifer Lassonde
• Ravelry Project Page
• 40 pts for Pro Shop Sponsor Pattern
• 60 pts for Pro Shop Exclusive Kit

Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino

• Started 9/2
• Colorway: Forested Hills
• My Ravelry Page

Baker Street Socks

• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici and in the Baker Street Colorway & Knit Picks Stroll in Navy
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming I shared details about the potentially ridiculous number of projects I’m packing for my trip to Florida.

From the Armchair * Fake Doctors Real Friends Podcast with Zach Braf & Donald Faison * Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. + Heard about this book from Knit All the Yarn Podcast on YouTube * 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.

Special Highlights on This Episode:

• Tune in to see if you’re the September Interception Winner.
• October Interception: hosted by Knitters Brewing Company. Find details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Open 10/5 through 10/31/21.
• 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

Thank you for tuning in!

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

View Details

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

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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works, Love in Stitches, Charming Ewe

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Snap Hat #5 & #6

• Pattern: Snap by Tin Can Knits ($6 pattern available on their website or on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 7 & US 10.5 (4.5 & 6.5 mm) needles
• Yarn: fingering weight scraps- 4 strands of fingering held together.
• Ravelry Project Pages: Hat 5, Hat 6
• 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
• Ravelry Project Page

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino

• Colorway: Forested Hills
• My Ravelry Page

Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Maroon handspun
• Ravelry Project Page

Love Letters Socks

• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL Fingering in the Love Letters Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works– Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
• Bag: Anne Beady Designs– Pro Shop Sponsor- Pigskin ’21 Exclusive- 60 points
• Yarn Cozy: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
• Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop – 40
• 160 points

Mermaid Socks

• Yarn: agirlandherwool BFL sock in the August 2020 Club Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Brainstorming I want to knit all the hats, a crochet stocking and some DK socks for myself.

From the Armchair
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop 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 a story about chatting with my friend’s uncles about hand knits they received as kids.

In My Travels Tune in to hear a bit about my visit to 6 stores during the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul. Check out my YouTube Channel for an upcoming video.

KAL News
Pigskin Party ’21: Official Hashtag: #DCSPigskinParty21

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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 Skills Building 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

Events * Greater Boston Yarn Crawl– September 30-October 3. * 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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021 * NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021 * Indie Untangled Rhinebeck * Fiber Festival of New England: Nov 6 & 7, 2021 in Springfield, MA

Contest, News & Notes Check out new vides on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

• Berkshire Vacation Vlog
• Crafty Chat #11 with Mary Hull/Kino Knits will go up on my YouTube Channel on Friday 10/1 at 12p Eastern.
• Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul Video (including Yarny Show & Tell) coming soon.

Life in Focus

Two thumbs up for the Maintenance Phase Podcast

On a Happy Note * Fall decorations * Cooler mornings and evenings! * Flannel shirts! * Mushrooms growing everywhere. * The mosquitos aren’t bothering me on morning walks anymore. * Outdoor yoga * Facetime with Hattie- “let me see the tractor… I miss you tractor!” * Getting to one of Garret’s baseball games. Checking out renovations at my. brother’s house. * Rewatching Scrubs.

Quote of the Week “Humor is what happens when we’re told the truth quicker and more directly than we’re used to.” – George Saunders

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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

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
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Anne Beady Designs & Good Noodle Yarn Company

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins 4 Snap Hats

• Pattern: Snap by Tin Can Knits ($6 pattern available on their website or on Ravelry)
• Needles: US 7 & US 10.5 (4.5 & 6.5 mm) needles
• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Used anywhere from 62-72g of yarn

• 3 used 1 strand of DK and 2 strands of fingering. All others used 4 strands of fingering held together.

• Ravelry Project Pages: Hat 1 (darker greens), Hat 2 (lighter greens), Hat 3 (cream with green/orange), Hat 4 (purples)

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Three Waters Farm Superfine Merino

• Started 9/2
• Colorway: Forested Hills
• 100g braid.
• My Ravelry Page

Pink Moon Sweater

• Pattern: Pink Moon by This.Bird.Knits. $8 US Pattern available on Ravelry and on the This.Bird.Knits Site.
• Needles: US 5 & 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
• Yarn:
  • Sweitzer Fiber Mill unknown (gray)- Rhinebeck 2019
  • Lisa Daschinger Wools (mustard)- Farm Fiber Day’s Russell’s Market January 2020
  • mur yarn merino cashmere fingering (pink)- Barcelona 2019
  • Rowan Alpaca Classic (pink) Staci’s Stitches- LYS
  • Handspun BFL (maroon)
• Ravelry Project Page

Whatits Galore Socks

• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Whatits Galore Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Want to try Felici? Consider using my Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Fall is My Favorite Socks

• Yarn: Woolens & Nosh sock in the Fall is my Favorite Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Pigskin Bonus Point Breakdown:
  • Yarn: Woolens and Nosh is a Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
  • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
  • Project Bag: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
  • Total: 100 points + yardage points

Love Letters Socks

• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Mountain Tweed BFL Fingering in the Love Letters Colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Pigskin Bonus Point Breakdown:
  • Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works– Pro Shop Sponsor- 40 points
  • Bag: Anne Beady Designs– Pro Shop Sponsor- Pigskin ’21 Exclusive- 60 points
  • Yarn Cozy: Cookie & Bees– Snack Shack Sponsor- 20 points
  • Pattern: OMG Heel- Pro Shop Sponsor – 40 points
  • 160 points + yardage points

From the Armchair Woodswoman by Anne LaBastille. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop 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.

Crafty Adventures Punch Needle

• Kit with pattern by Teresa Kogut
• Pattern: PN165- For Ewe
• Link to purchase pattern only on Etsy for $12.
• I purchased my complete kit from Tree House Fiber Arts. Click here for their website.
  • Kit included: 7″/9″ Morgan hoop, weavers cloth, floss, Ultra Punch Needle, Needle threaders, pattern, instructions.
  • Kits no longer available but Rachel does have double hoop, pattern and the punch needle in stock.
• Helpful resources:
  • YouTube Videos by the Woolery & Kate Gillery

Knitting in Passing 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.

Kick off was so much fun! Staying in one Zoom room each day was great. I saved the Saturday afternoon chat after a participant mentioned it. Click here to find all of the links shared Saturday.

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. * Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul– September 16-19th. 8 stores. 4 days of fun! * 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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021 * NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021 * Indie Untangled Rhinebeck

Contest, News & Notes * August FO Video on YouTube * September Yarnable Unboxing Video * 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.

On a Happy Note * Vacation Yarn Shopping- Webs in Northampton, MA & Spin Off Yarn Shop in North Adams, MA. Mom went to Colorful Stitches in Lenox, MA * 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

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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.

This week’s segments included:

• Off 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

Thank you to this episode’s sponsors: AdoreKnit

Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: Charlie, Candy, Theresa, Luanne and Beth!

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Chubby Elephant

• Pattern: Chubby Elephant by Spin a Yarn Crochet (free option or $2.50 US)
• Yarn: Bernat Velvet in Misty Gray & Bernat Crushed Velvet in Toasted Plums
• Hook: D (3.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• 168.5 meters

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Hook: D (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.
• Single crocheted the squares together and added border with Knit Picks Stroll in gray.
• 1816 meters

Imaginarium Socks

• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 253.8 meters

Candy Color Socks

• Yarn: Regia 4 ply in Colorway 01160
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Self striping/self patterning Christmas colors. CO 60 sts. 2×2 rib. down to 56 after heel.
• 210 meters

Magic Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the Coal colorway (black)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• 267 meters

Scrappy Shawl (design prototype: will share more details in the months to come)- 710 meters of sock yarn scraps.

Wild Plum Merino Spin

• Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
• Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
• My Ravelry Page
• 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.
• 924.2 meters for Stash Dash

Granny Stripe Blanket

• Pattern: Granny Stripe by Lucy of Attic 24. Click here for Ravelry Link or Click here for Website. Free crochet pattern.
• Hook L (8.0 mm)
• Yarn: Lion Brand Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton in Almond, Macadamia, Pistachio, Dusty Blue and Blueberry.
• Ravelry Project Page
• Foundation row- 56 chains.
• 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.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Chained 79. 25 Vs.
• Edge= 2 rounds sc.
• 642.9 meters

Stash Dash Total as of 8/30/21: 15,392 meters.

Brainstorming * 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!

From the Armchair

• The UnHoneymooners by Christina Lauren. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link.
• Nomadland by Jessica Bruder. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link.
• Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop 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.

In My Travels * Checked out a brewery up in NH- Hobb’s Brewing Tap Room on Rt 16 in Ossippi, NH * Played dice game: Quixx- Amazon Associate Link * 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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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.

Virtual Kick Off Schedule Events

• Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– September 9-12, 2021. October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021
• NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021
• Indie Untangled Rhinebeck

Contest, News & Notes * I will be releasing a new bulky weight hat pattern coming out in September. Sign up for my email newsletter list! * Michele at WoolensandNosh is offering kits for Millie Margaret Shawl. * 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

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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.
• Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Misty Gray Colorway
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 111.1 meters

Summer Vibes Socks

• Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Summer Vibes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Check out my June Yarnable Unboxing & July Yarnable Unboxing Videos on YouTube.
  • 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
• Needles: US 10 (6.0 mm)
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Ravelry Project Page
• 489.8 meters

Stash Dash total to date: 9,647 meters. Check out my Stash Dash 2021 Spreadsheet . You can also check out: Jasmin's Stash Dash 2021 Spreadsheet

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Hook: D (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.

Imaginarium Socks

• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
• My Ravelry Project Page

Magic Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Magic Stripes colorway & Patons Kroy in the Coal colorway (black)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: omg
• Ravelry Project Page

Wild Plum Merino Spin

• Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
• Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
• My Ravelry Page

Chubby Elephant

• Pattern: Chubby Elephant by Spin a Yarn Crochet (free option or $2.50 US)
• Yarn: Bernat Velvet in Misty Gray & Bernat Crushed Velvet in Toasted Plums
• Hook: D (3.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

From the Armchair 1. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite Finished 7/28 Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link. 2. Super Host by Kate Russo. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link 3. The Salt Path by Raynor Winn finished 8/8. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link 4. The Wild Silence by Raynor Winn. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop 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.

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

Important Links:

• Official Rules (Google Doc)
• Register to Play! (Google Form)
• Points Tally Form (Google Form)
• Sponsor List (Google Doc)- keep checking back.
• Questions: Ask in the Ravelry Thread or email Jen (downcellarstudio @ gmail.com)
• Prizes- see details in this Ravelry Thread
• 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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18. September 9-12, 2021. October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021 * NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021 * Indie Untangled Rhinebeck

Contest, News & Notes * Check out my new patterns- the Millie Margaret Shawl- available for fingering weight and worsted weight yarn. + Fingering pattern- Ravelry link + Worsted pattern- Ravelry link * 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."

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/
• 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.

View Details

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.

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
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

• Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
• Ravelry Project Page
• Total: 246 yards/ 225.52 meter
• 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
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I was inspired to try this yarn after seeing my friend Emily’s on our Crafty Chat- check out the video here.
• Stash Dash: 240 meters

Stash Dash total to date: 8774 meters. Stash Dash 2021

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Hook: D (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.
• I have 134 squares which could make a blanket that’s- 11×12 but I may not have enough yard to edge that many so we’ll see as we get closer

Imaginarium Socks

• Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Imaginarium Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Non-Euclidian Heel by Sarah Jordan
• My Ravelry Project Page

Summer Vibes Socks

• Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Summer Vibes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page
• Check out my June Yarnable Unboxing & July Yarnable Unboxing Videos on YouTube.
  • 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)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: TBD
• Ravelry Project Page

Gabriella’s Velvet Bear

• Pattern: Velvet Valentine Crochet Bear by Sarah Zimmerman- available on Yarnspirations website.
• Yarn: Bernat Velvet in the Misty Gray & Violet Colorways
• Hook: G (4.0 mm)
• My Ravelry Project Page

Wild Plum Merino Spin

• Fiber Addict Designs: 100% Merino, Commercial Combed Roving, 4 oz. Wild Plum Colorway
• Spinning on my Kromski Minstrel Spinning Wheel
• My Ravelry Page
• Divided into 3 so I can do a 3 ply.
• Focusing on not spinning so thin.

Brainstorming * Crochet Knocker- Knitted Knockers Website + Ravelry Link * 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.

From the Armchair * The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Crafty Adventures * 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. * I talked a bit about the Saturday night tradition of hot dogs, beans and brown bread. Click here for a related story.

KAL News Splash Pad Party: May 28 through July 31

• Check out the Splash Pad ’21 Sponsors
• Rules, sponsor list and so much more can be found on the Splash Pad ’21 landing page on my website

Pigskin Party

• Official Dates Announced: Mark your calendar: Thursday 9/9/21 through Monday 2/14/22
• Details about Sponsor Options are available on my website.
• 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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18. September 9-12, 2021. October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021 * NY Sheep & Wool (AKA Rhinebeck): October 17 & 18, 2021 * Indie Untangled Rhinebeck

Contest, News & Notes * 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 * This group is looking for hand knit hats for sailors, Click here for the Ravelry Group or find informationat www.hatsforsailors.com, on their Facebook Page and on Instagram.

Ask Me Anything 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
  • 5 pack of 20ml silicone containers $12.99- Amazon Affiliate Link
• 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

• Vanilla Latte Socks by Virginia Rose-Jeans
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Free Ravelry Download

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.

Suzi321- what is the first garment you knitted?

• 1st garment: Neighborly by Jennifer Casa
  • My Ravelry Project Page Link
• 2nd garment: Five Hour Baby Sweater by Courtney Filner- free pattern- click here for PDF Download or click here for Ravelry Pattern.My Ravelry Project Page

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

Thank you for tuning in!

Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

View Details

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 212 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on 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
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor: Anne Beady Designs- find her on Etsy & Ravelry

Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Signs of the Season Socks

• Yarn: Fibernymph Dye Works Bounce base in the Signs of the Season Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks

• Yarn: Agirlandherwool Sock in the Not In Kansas Anymore Colorway.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Happy Birthday Socks

• Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Serendipity Sock Yarn in the Happy Birthday Colorway.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• My Ravelry Project Page

Paton’s Rainbow Stripes

• Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Rain
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• I finished first sock with Jen from the Commuter Knitter Podcast. We talked about these on our Crafty Chat on my YouTube Channel.

July 4th Cozy (32 oz jar)

• Pattern: based loosely on Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
• Yarn: Lily Sugar n’ Cream (Navy) & Lion Brand Re-up (Aqua) & Rowan DK Handknit Cotton (Red)
• Hooks: F & G (3.75 & 4.25 mmm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Stash Dash Meters: 62.2

Red, White, Blue Ball Band w/ Twist

• Pattern: based loosely on Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde
• Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up in colorways, Red, Aqua & White
• Hooks: F & G (3.75 & 4.25 mm)
• Ravelry Project Page
• Stash Dash Meters: 38.5

Deschain

• Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven
• Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm)
• Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624- Gray.
  • 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
• Ravelry Project Page

Stash Dash Updates

• 7 FOs since last episode. 13 FOs for Stash Dash so far!
• My Stash Dash total to date: 6,533 meters. Click here for my spreadsheet: Stash Dash 2021
• Check out Jasmin (cuteknitter)’s spreadsheet here. Jasmin’s total to date- 4614

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Hook: D (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 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.
• Cast in with K. 99sts. Working with 97 sts.
• 5 rows white hdc. 1 row of bobbles
• Currently have 13 bobble stripes.

Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

• Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
• Ravelry Project Page
• I shared how our Patreon Community is doing a challenge in May that helped me with this. Check out my Patron options here.
• Spinning is done. Plying is up next!

Wristers Socks

• Yarn: Lion Brand Mani-Pedi in the Wristers Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Inspired to try this yarn after seeing my friend Emily’s on our Crafty Chat- check out the video here.

Knitting up a sample for a new shawl design idea… very early sneak peek

Brainstorming * I’d like to make toys for the 2 babies in our life turning 1 soon * I need to repair another pair of socks for Mom and the hat of Eme’s octopus + Pattern: Dandy Sir Cephalopod by Susan Claudino + Pattern $6 US available on Ravelry

From the Armchair * Finished since last time: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig- Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link * Thanks for Waiting: The Joy & Weirdness of Being a Late Bloomer by Doree Shafrir (started July 5- finished Friday July 9. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link + Doree Shafrir co-hosts the Forever35 Podcast with Kate Spencer * The Year of Less by Cait Flanders. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link

Some Years Later 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.

• Ravelry Project Page for Jen’s Dawn to Dusk
• Ravelry Project Page for Mom’s Dawn to Dusk

Knitting in Passing * 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.

KAL News Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

• Check out the Splash Pad ’21 Sponsors
• Rules, sponsor list and so much more can be found on the Splash Pad ’21 landing page on my website
• Sign up using this Form if you haven’t already.

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

• Start Here Thread
• Mark it Monday Thread
• Poolside Chat Thread
• 4th of July Challenge posted in Ravelry Group

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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18. September 9-12, 2021. October 7-10, 2021. November 11-14, 2021 * Tour de Fleece. Saturday June 26 through Sunday July 18, 2021 Ravelry Link * Fiberworld July 21-25, 2021. Click here for their website. * 2020 Summer Olympics will begin on Friday, July 23, 2021

Contest, News & Notes * Want to see my June FOs for Stash Dash? Check out this video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel * Tune in to see my unboxing of the July Yarnable Subscription Box + Yarnable will likely open again to new subscribers in August 2021 + Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN + Considering subscribing? Please consider using my Affiliate Link * My new Millie Margaret shawl design is in test knitting now. Stay tuned. Sign up for email newsletter to get the best intro discount code. + 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

For more, check out Episode 107 of the Sustainable(ish) Podcast

On a Happy Note * Dan is healing well after knee surgery. * 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.”

― Habeeb Akande

Thank you for tuning in!
Contact Information:

• Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!
• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Instagram: BostonJen1
• YouTube: Down Cellar Studio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio
• Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel
• Knit Picks Affiliate Link
• Bookshop Affiliate Link
• Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

View Details

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
• Ravelry Project Page
• I knit size 5; full length.
• Check out my almost-done Happy Dance Video from Instagram.

• 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
• Ravelry Project Page
• 268.7 meters for Stash Dash

Alien Knight & His Horse

• Pattern: Princess & Knight by Silvia Usón (~$4.25 pattern on Etsy– English & Spanish)
• Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Black, Alfalfa (green), Midnight Heather (Navy) & Big Twist Twinkle (Silver)
• Hook: C (2.75 mm)
• Safety Eyes from 6060 on Etsy.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• 46 meters for Stash Dash

Hydrangea Stripes Blanket #2

• Pattern: Hydrangea Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic24 (free crochet blanket)- Ravelry Link. Website link.
• My Ravelry Project Page
• Hook: I (Cast on with K hook)
• Yarn: Vanna’s Choice in Shadow Ombre, Orion Blue, Burgundy & Sea glass, Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in Suede & Big Twist Soft in Rose & Charcoal
• I cast on 86 to make this blanket smaller than my last one.
• I followed the border instructions in the pattern. 3 rounds of a spike stitch: gray, pink, gray, then I did a round of HDC in the gray. Love the look!
• About 39 inches squares before border.
• 1,149 meters for Stash Dash

Stash Dash total to date: 4,891 meters. Click here to see my Spreadsheet Tracker.

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Fibernymph Dye Works Shetland Spin

• Three 2 oz braids of natural Shetland
• Ravelry Project Page
• Onto the 3rd 2oz braid (the darkest of the 3 shades)

Solid Granny Square Blanket 2021 Edition

• Yarn: fingering weight scraps
• Hook: D (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Solid Granny Square by Lullaby Melodia- Find this pattern on Ravelry or directly on the Lullaby Lodge website
• My Ravelry Project Page
• I ripped out the color squares I could salvage from last summer’s blanket and made some new ones too.

Not in Kansas Anymore Socks

• Yarn: Agirlandherwool Sock in the Not In Kansas Anymore Colorway.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Ravelry Project Page

Happy Birthday Socks

• Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Serendipity Sock Yarn in the Happy Birthday Colorway.
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• My Ravelry Project Page

Paton’s Rainbow Stripes

• Yarn: Paton’s Kroy in the Rain
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• I finished first sock with Jen from the Commuter Knitter Podcast who needed some motivation to make the second of her Blue Stripe Ragg Patons socks.
• 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.

From the Armchair * Listening to The Midnight Library by Matt Haig- Amazon Affiliate Link. Bookshop Affiliate Link

Crafty Adventures * I did just a little bit of painting with the girls. I’ll include a few minutes of audio after the music if you want to tune in.

KAL News Splash Pad- May 28 through July 31

• Check out the Splash Pad ’21 Sponsors
• Rules, sponsor list and so much more can be found on the Splash Pad ’21 landing page on my website
• Sign up here.

Splash Pad Ravelry Links:

• Start Here Thread
• Mark it Monday Thread
• Poolside Chat Thread
• 4th of July Challenge posted in Ravelry Group

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. * Vogue Virtual Knitting Live– July 15-18. * Tour de Fleece. Saturday June 26 through Sunday July 18, 2021 Ravelry Link * Fiberworld July 21-25, 2021. Click here for their website. * 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