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Episode 326: Confetti & Big Feelings31 août 202600:52:55
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 326 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
  • 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: Stitched by Jessalu & Mandi's Makings   Off the Needles   Neckerchief #2
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Valley Yarns Huntington (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in colorway 22 Navy
  • Needles: US 6 (4 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater
  • Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck
  • Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: Nearly done with the ribbing now!
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.
  • Progress: 30 squares completed!
  • I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.
  Confetti Cannon Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • New base for Woolens & Nosh that was very kindly gifted to me by Michele to try out! Thank you! I love this new base.
  • About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal
  • Progress: I am beyond heel on first sock.
  Big Feelings Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Big Feelings Colorway (2nd Quarter 2026 club 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: I am beyond heel on first sock.
  Deschain
  • Pattern: Deschain by Leila Raven ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Berroco Remix in colorway 3922 Buttercup
  • Needles: US 10 (6 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I am only a few repeats into the front of the top.
  Tray-mat
  • Pattern: None
  • Yarn: Lion Brand Made with Love The Cotton One in the Red Red Wine Colorway (60% Cotton/ 40% Acrylic) Aran weight yarn
  • Hook: H (5.9 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I have crocheted around 5 inches so far.
  Brainstorming   Blanket options I'm considering
  • No-Purl Ribbed Blanket by Purl Soho (free knitting pattern)
  • Football Lovie by Alissa Clevenger $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry
  Project to bring to France
  • Tip Top Tank Fine by Emily Bolduan- Free Ravelry knitting pattern
  • Islander Vest by Claire Jackson- $11 knitting pattern (options for pay what you can)
  From the Armchair   The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth. Amazon Affiliate Link. In Her Defense by Phillippa Malicka. Amazon Affiliate Link. I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Watching:
  • Silo Series on Apple TV- season 3
  Note: Some links are 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
  • David sent me photos of his Pollen Party socks at work and at Pilates!
  KAL News   Pigskin Party '26 Details
  • Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27
  • Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry
  • Sign up (must be registered to win) - opened 8/19
  • Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season)
  • Finish a Project?
  • Check your Stats on the Scoreboard
  • Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread
  • Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates)
    • Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread
    • Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread
  Updates for this episode:
  • The next Stretches for Stitchers session (from Fitness by Mara) starts Sept. 14th but participants can join at anytime or use a single class pack!
  • Check out our Quarter 1 (October) Challenge hosted by Doolittle Yarnery. Details in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Thanks to Ravelry user Elisewentwest for updating her worksheet for project tracking. If you want to check it out click here and then make a copy of it to edit for your own tracking purposes.
  Events   On a Happy Note
  • Laura's Visit- Flight Club Boston. Lolita for dinner. Sunday- breakfast at Yaz's Table, thrifting and shopping for college stuff with Riley.
  • Megg and I saw Jagged Little Pill at Company Theatre
  • Riley getting off to college successfully!
  • Seeing Aila and Hattie perform in the Cabaret show
  • Facetime tour of Riley's dorm
  • Marta is meeting Laura and I in Colmar, France!
  • A step challenge through my gym has me out on more walks. Lovely message from Natalie (remembrances pottery) about a stone wall she's building after seeing one on my vlogmas walks.
  • Megg and I went to Liz's band, Safe Journey's, show at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. Check them out on Instagram. Then on Saturday, Dan, Dad and I went to an outdoor musical festival in Providence, RI where Safe Journey was playing. We had lunch and beers at the pavilion at 195 District Park. We really enjoyed the Guild Brewery beers and seltzer.
  • Rhinoceros at ART in Cambridge wearing thirfted dress.
  Quote of the Week   "Summers had a logic all their own and they always brought something out in me. Summer was supposed to be about freedom and youth and no school and possibilities and adventure and exploration. Summer was a book of hope. That's why I loved and hated summers. Because they made me want to believe."   ―Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe     No episode on 9/15. I'll be in Paris!   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 325: August Has Been Generous15 août 202600:43:31
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 325 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wild Violet Socks
  • Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Right as Rain Socks
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Summer Brights Cozy
  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde- $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts
  • Yarn: Crafter's Secret Cotton in Turquoise & Brights
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) & G (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater
  • Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck
  • Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I finished the yoke, blocked it, measured, split for the sleeve. Helical knitting for body. Had about 2 inches in about 2 days.
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.
  • Progress: 30 squares completed!
  • I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.
  From the Armchair   Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune. 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   Splash Pad '26 Wrap Up
  • Splash Pad Party '26 Final Prize Winners Announced
  • 157 players with entries during the Splash Pad Party!
  • 7 participants with over 100 entries for prizes- jstuntz, mostlymunhies, ddorf4, roocmc, socalknitgirl, eyenowhour and valknits15! Nicely done!
  • Check out the Summer Celebration Thread on Ravelry to see pics of things the community made this summer.
  • Thanks as always to Wendy & all of our sponsors.
  Pigskin Party '26 Details
  • Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27
  • Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry
  • Sign up (must be registered to win) - opens 8/19
  • Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season)
  • Finish a Project?
  • Check your Stats on the Scoreboard
  • Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread
  • Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates)
    • Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread
    • Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread
  Events   On a Happy Note
  • We are getting our driveway paved!
  • I went for fun nails again!
  • Riley took Dad and I to see Tim McGraw, Lady A and The Chicks at Fenway! Her friend Maddie also joined us.
  • Camping and kayaking on the Saco River in Maine.
  • Dan and I went out with a few of our friends for Margarita's birthday.
  • My cousin Gayle came up from Florida for a visit. We had a rocking pool day on Sunday! Then on Monday evening, Dad and Gayle picked up Dan and me for dinner and a walk around the lighthouse.
  • I'm going to France with my friend Laura in September!
  Quote of the Week A Blessing for the Life You're Bracing For by Kate Bowler   Bless you who still have popsicles to drip,  tomatoes to slice, books to leave facedown for just a minute longer,  and evenings that don't yet know they are numbered.   May you resist the annual migration  toward freshly sharpened pencils, color-coded calendars,   and the familiar lie that next month deserves more of your attention  than the one still sitting in front of you.   Bless you who linger over one more meal outside,  one more chorus of cicadas, one more porch sit,  trusting that ordinary rituals are already a life well lived.   May you savor what remains before you begin rehearsing what comes next,  because August has always been generous with those willing to stay exactly where they are for just a little while longer.   —Kate Bowler   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 324: Summer Camp!30 juil. 202600:51:05
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 324 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
  • Knitting in Passing
  • Crafty Adventures
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wicked Witch
  • Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters)
  • Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash
  • Hook: C: 2.75 mm
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.
  Dorothy
  • Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & $4 on Etsy (sale)- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters)
  • Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash
  • Hook: C: 2.75 mm
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.
  Mine! Socks
  • Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry
  • 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   Wild Violet Socks
  • Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 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: 1st sock finished. 2nd sock part way through the heel flap
  Right as Rain Socks
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain 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: 1st sock is finished. 2nd sock is onto the foot.
  From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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
  • Roc loves to visit yarn stores so we went to:
    • Wicked Good Yarns in Braintree, MA where he bought scissors, a kit for a chicken and Joann gifted him the tapestry needle he was looking for.
    • Elissa's Creative Warehouse in Needham, MA where he bought blue yarn to cast on an elephant.
    • Stitch House in Dorchester, MA where Roc found a bright mini skein he liked and I restocked my favorite knitting stitch markers.
  Crafty Adventures
  • Riley worked a bit on the cuff of a sock with her Area 51 Fibres Be FearLESS colorway yarn. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for mine. She also started a diamond painting project and crocheted several rounds on her hexagon blanket. She's using white worsted weight yarn held with minis from the advent yarn Nicole sent her.
  • Marta and Roc both worked on his diamond painting project- a seaturtle. Marta got a crochet kit for a slice of pizza at Walmart and was able to finish 2 pieces with the yarn from the kit (with some heavy mods on the second one).
  • Roc completed 2 hippo stuffies out of microfiber blanket yarn (free pattern from the Friendly Fox site). He finished a dinosaur he started during his last visit and the chicken he bought this year.
  • Gabriella got a Craft-tastic learn to knit kit for her birthday (on sale at CVS right now). It came with a small circular loom. I taught myself how to do it and made a small axolotl. Came out cute! Has patterns for a bee and a panda too.
  In My Travels
  • We visited Tall Ships while they were in Boston
  • Museum of Ice Cream (lots of fun, especially with kids. We spent about 90 minutes there)
  • Bota Borg
    • 24 quests- each is a series of escape rooms. You can do as many as you like with teams of 3 or more. You choose 2 or 4 hours. We loved it and would definitely go back.
  • The Great Gatsby (musical)
  • We enjoyed seeing our small towns from another perspective.
  KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links  
  • Tune in to see if you won a July Participation Prize
  • Pigskin Party will kick off with the NFL on Wednesday September 9th. Get those WIPs done before then!
  On a Happy Note
  • Pottery from Riley! Wow
  • A few amazing pool days during 4th of July weekend with family and friends.
  • Riley & I went to the Megan Moroney concert!!
  • Score N' Hole pool game!
  • Marta's visit highlights
    • America's Funniest Videos- especially these two contenders for best video of the year. We had running jokes based on these for 2 weeks straight.
    • Riding around in Riley's Jeep. Kayaking. movies, night swimming, Making up songs. Going for ice cream & slurpees. Taste tests & inside jokes. I felt like I was at summer camp!
    • On our last night togetherwe made up lyrics to a song from the Six musical we'd been listening to and Riley made a video using it. Adorable!
  • My boss gave us 2 of his older kayaks. Dan bought a new rack for the truck so we can fit 5 inside the bed and the 2 longer ones on top.
  • Our friends visited from PA. Millie and twins Rhiannon & Teaghan are so cute- especially in their matching bathing suits.
  Note: Some links are 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   "Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time." – Aliyyah Eniath   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 323: Pollen, Party, Prizes & more30 juin 202600:57:30
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 323 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
  • 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 (2nd Episode of the Month)   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 in person July 18th at South End Yarns in Newburyport, from July 24-26th at The Gathering at Westfield State hosted by the Northeast Handspinners Association (check out the Saturday evening ticket option for only $25), and don't forget Fiber Revival August 8th in Newbury, MA   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pollen Party Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini)
  • 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   Goldwing Sweater
  • Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck
  • Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke (only about 8 colorwork rounds left)
  Jelly Roll Blanket   
  • Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry)
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram.
  • Progress: I finished my 8th strip and I'm 1/3 into the 9th. Still loving this project!
  Mine! Socks
  • Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry
  • 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 knit the heel of the sock on the plane to NYC, knit on the foot during Schmigadoon and got half way through the toe on the way home.
  Wild Violet Socks
  • Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 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: 1 sock is just beyond the heel. 2nd sock is a few inches into the leg
  Brainstorming Gabriella's birthday ideas   From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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 another knitting finding me before the Broadway show we were seeing began.   In My Travels
  • Riley and I took an impromptu trip to NYC when she was asked to babysit a local family while they were visiting NY.
  • Friday- we saw Schmigadoon!
  • Saturday- RIley and I got coffee and bagels before we met Laura to visit the Museum of the City of New York to see murals of "Another Wonderland" by Abram Champanier. Riley went off to babysit Saturday night. Laura and I enjoyed a leisurely night in at the hotel.
  • Sunday- Riley and I set an alarm to head to Butterfield Market to buy Dot Cakes. We took a stroll through Central Park before thrift shopping and lunch. Riley went to babysit. I met Laura at Shukette then I went solo to see Operation Mincemeat. 
  KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Prizes:  we have 48 prizes to give away this Splash Pad season. Tune in to hear if you're a May/June winner!   Events     Life in Focus July 2 is half way day of the year! Let's do a check in on my 26 in 2026 List:  
  1. A-Aim for one night at week at the pool in July and August- make it regular and invite friends to pop over
  2. B- Blood- donate at least 4 times (1/20, 3/17)
  3. C- Christmas Sleepover
  4. D- Declutter 26+ items- delivered a trunk full in February
  5. E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events (I have 36 on the calendar for this year!)
  6. F-Find 2-6 new things and try them out! 1) Orange Bike Beer 2) Dot Cakes in NYC,
  7. G-Go on a trip with Dan (just us) Anniversary Trip to Portland
  8. H- Headshots for Hattie
  9. I- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum- Go there
  10. J- Journal- Write 365 entries in my I Remember Journal about Mom (inspired by Liz Craft who talked about it on Ep 451 of Happier in Hollywood podcast)
  11. K- Knit at least 2 projects with handspun (Treysta sweater, Inclinations + bonus Goldwing Sweater WIP)
  12. L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books (11 as of February, 24 as of 4/27, 30 as of 5/29, 36 as of 6/24)
  13. M- Museum- Museum of the City of New York
  14. N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once-- visited in April & Jun
  15. O- Organize a FearLESS Living Fundraiser
  16. P- Puzzle- do at least 1 with Dan
  17. Q-Quarterly review of calendar/photos & goals (to make Year in Review easier and faster)- calendar it!
    1. March done, Q2 review will get done this week.
  18. R- Restaurant- try at least 1 new local restaurant (Blu in Theater District 3/26)
  19. S- Socks- knit 26 pair- 11 done so far.
  20. T- Tattoo- started following some artists on Instagram (plan end of year so can donate blood)
  21. U- Up the amount of muscle in my body- at least 1 pound by end of the year. Making good progress.
  22. V- Vlogmas- take the year off (even if you're tempted)
  23. W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month (put reminders on my calendar at the beginning of each month to help remind me) Jan, Feb, March, April, May done
  24. X- Cross 1 thing off this list that no longer serves me (H hattie headshot)
  25. Y-Yoga at least 2-6 times
  26. Z- Create Zone to keep important papers
  On a Happy Note
  • Millie graduated from 8th grade. Dad and I were able to go.
  • Riley's graduation party!
  • Father's Day pool day at my dad's! Dad let Gabriella pick out a few of Mom's Oz things she likes including a book that she's flying through.
  • Thought I broke my toe on wrought iron chair leg- but think maybe it was a bad sprain I'm so grateful it's healing well.
  • A sweet moment with Riley
  • Fun nail art!
  • I got a lovely text from Alicia at ZK of many of our DCS friends!
  Quote of the Week   "We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibers, as sympathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us as effects."   ― Herman Melville   --------   Contact Information:  
Episode 322: Dance! Dance! Dance!15 juin 202600:48:51
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 322 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Miles' Dump Truck
  • Pattern: Dump Truck by by AnvisionCrochet (crochet pattern for sale on Ravelry & Etsy)
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Merry Christmas Kevin
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Midnight Orchid Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater
  • Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck
  • Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke
  Pollen Party Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini)
  • 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'm well into the foot of the second sock.
  Mine! Socks
  • Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry
  • 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: Nemo Reference- thin white stripes with wider colorful stripes in between Orange, aqua, yellow, navy, light gray. May 2025 Club Colorway. Navy mini
  • Almost to heel of sock 1
  From the Armchair   Books   Musical: Black Swan at American Repertory 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.   KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   A few fun highlights from the June Poolside Chat
  • Broken Jack socks knit up by Ravelry user KBamr- Check out the Ravelry Project Page here.
  • PAKnitWit shared a handy video for the Tubular Cast On using scrap yarn in this Ravelry Post.
  • SammichStitches is working on a Persian Tiles Blanket and got all of the pieces done- ready to seam up and wow is it beautiful. Check out this Ravelry Post.
  • Lmecoll shared a test knit sock for Chit Chat Knits- check it out in this Ravelry Post. They're called the Summer Sizzle Socks.
  Events   On a Happy Note
  • Seeing Riley off to Prom and attending her high school graduation!
  • Visiting with Vikki, in from Las Vegas.
  • Miles' second birthday party.
  • Aila's voice recital and then a girls shopping trip to follow with Megg, Kris, Riley and Aila.
  • An absolutely splendid birthday!
  • Seeing all the kids in their recitals this weekend. My brother did the father/daughter dance with Riley in her last recital. I blubbered through most of it. We then danced the night away at our twin friends' 50th birthday party.
  • Brunch before Black Swan with Megg and Rose. $18 bottomless brunch (food- not alcohol) at The Painted Burro in Harvard Square is so delicious! Great conversions.
  Quote of the Week   "Heroes didn't leap tall buildings or stop bullets with an outstretched hand; they didn't wear boots and capes. They bled, and they bruised, and their superpowers were as simple as listening, or loving. Heroes were ordinary people who knew that even if their own lives were impossibly knotted, they could untangle someone else's. And maybe that one act could lead someone to rescue you right back."   ― Jodi Picoult, Second Glance   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 321: Splash Pad Mojo31 mai 202600:42:35
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 321 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
  • KAL News
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   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
  Sunday Brunch Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Sunday Brunch at the Breakfast Club colorway; club colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: mini skein in a medium denim blue. Self striping- tan, navy, mustard, pink, coffee w/ milk brown.
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color & 20 ounces of Grey Shetland from Forever in Fiber on Etsy
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • Plied 5 bobbins over Memorial Day weekend. and have since finished and washed 5 skeins of yarn! If my math is right, I have 224g of fiber and 352 yards.
  Jelly Roll Blanket   
  • Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry)
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram.
  • Progress: I finished my 7th strip
  Midnight Orchid Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples.
  • Progress: First sock is finished. The second is just beyond the heel.
  Merry Christmas Kevin
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: finished first sock. Finished cuff of second in Portland. No specific rush on these so they're just hanging out in my purse
  Goldwing Sweater
  • Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck
  • Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Handspun is all different yellows, mustards, peach, pink orange, rusts.
  • Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke
  From the Armchair  
  1. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. Famesick by Lena Dunham. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. Into the Blue by Emma Brodie. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  Musical: Something Rotten playing at the Lyric Stage, Boston through June 7, 2026   Note: Some links are 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 Dan and I spent a weekend in Portland, MA   KAL News   Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Contest, News & Notes I was so sad to hear of Gigi Knitmore's passing. Sending so much love and support to their whole family. Haven't listened? Check out the Knitmore Girls Podcast back catalog.   On a Happy Note
  • We had Gabriella and Zach for another sleepover and it was a blast! We all enjoyed seeing Hattie in Seussical.
  • Dad, Jeff and I all went to one of Garret's last lacrosse games of the year.
  • Normal Mammogram! Reminder to get checked if you're due for this or any other health screening.
  • Anniversary weekend in Portland with Dan
  • Jury Duty Presents- Company Retreat (on Prime).
  • Patreon Zoom- always love hanging out with you.
  • Getting salads back in the rotation + watermelon!
  • All of the Splash Pad Mojo!
  • My fav Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) musical got picked up for a national tour. It starts in Providence in fall of 2027! They also got nominated for 8 Tony's! I'm so excited for them.
  Quote of the Week An artist is a sort of emotional or spiritual historian. His role is to make you realize the doom and glory of knowing who you are and what you are. He has to tell, because nobody else in the world can tell, what it is like to be alive.   -James Baldwin ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 320: Venom, Inclinations & More15 mai 202600:49:38
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 320 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Heart & Squirrel & AdoreKnit   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Venom
  • Pattern: Venom Keychain crochet pattern available on Ravelry for $5 & on Etsy (on sale for $1.50 in May 2026).
  • Yarn: Vanna's Choice in Black, Knit Picks Brava (red) & white felt for eyes and mouth
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Glue used: Aleene's Fabric Fusion
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   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
  Jelly Roll Blanket   
  • Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry)
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram.
  • Progress: on my 6th strip
  Midnight Orchid Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples.
  • Progress: Cast on both socks on two separate needles. First sock is finished. The second is just beyond the heel.
  Merry Christmas Kevin
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: turned the heel on the first sock over the weekend.
  Brainstorming  
  • Granny Square Muff by Allyson Dykhuizen- free pattern available on Ravelry
  • Nautilus, The Submarine- Ravelry Pattern by Paola Navarro for $4.20 on Etsy
  • Ace the Airplane- $5.20 on Etsy (view on Ravelry)
  • Airplane by Joyce Overheul- $4.99 Ravelry & Etsy
  From the Armchair   Books   2 Plays  
  • It's a Madhouse! by Todd Wallinger.
  • Faust by the Embody Project Theatre
  • If you heard me mention the Suffs musical in Episode 317 it's now available on PBS until July 31, 2026!
  Note: Some links are 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 rotated out our couch blankets and I'm loving my Recollections Throw (check out my Ravelry Project Page- from September 2022).   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
  • All yarn held triple
    • MC- 3 strands of gray.- separates each row of colorful yarns
  • Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).
  • LOVED working on this project.
  • Great end of stash dash project. no finishing required. no borders. no weaving in ends. finish twisting fringe and its done!
  • 6,576 meters for Stash Dash
    In My Travels NH Sheep and Wool with Ryan
  • We had a great time catching up with Jess & Anne in the Stitched by Jessalu booth. Fearless Living Fund fabric design is part of the Stitched by Jessalu banner! Anne and I geeked out over musicals and theater stuff!
    • I bought a large bag with deer and foxes and other animals all dressed up for winter
  • Got to see Stephanie from Dirty Water Dyeworks and got some gray yarn DK to border my jellyroll blanket.
  • I bought some minis for my jellyroll blanket from a new to me dyer Appena Fiber
  • I wore Mom's Dotted Rays shawl (Ravelry Project Page)
  • Brown Bunny pottery had a chicken soap dispenser and a spotted chicken bowl I couldn't resist!
  KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Splash Pad '26 Official Logo Bags & Stitch Markers I've partnered up with Steph from AdoreKnit on official SPP '26 logo bags and stitch markers. Full disclosure, I do earn a small affiliate fee for all products sold (for the use of the artwork). Check them out here.   Other Things from the Ravelry Board
  • Sweater MAL Chat- thanks Danielle for starting the chat. If you want to make a sweater in 2026, check it out, chat it up and get some encouragement.
  On a Happy Note
  • Longer, warmer days!
  • We had our niece & nephew, Gabriella & Zach over for a sleepover. We went on deer walks, watched The Wizard of Oz, made pancakes, and took turns on the mower and backhoe.
  • Aila's birthday dinner which ended with an impromptu dance show by Hattie and a  not-so-subtle take over by almost 2 year old Miles
  • Zach's birthday party had animals- they had the most gorgeous rooster I've ever seen.
  • After looking at machines for years, I finally bought an espresso maker.
  • The girls Im going to Rhinebeck with this year started a Marco Polo group chat.
  • Woke up early before NH Sheep and Wool- so I got a car wash and came with 10 min of vacuuming. I got that done and it felt SO good.
  • Took a little field trip to the Beacon Hill Bookstore on Charles St with my co-workers. Lovely to get out, talk books, connect.
  Quote of the Week "Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them. Everybody has a little bit of man, woman, and animal in them. Darks and lights in them. Everyone is part of a connected cosmic system. Part earth and sea, wind and fire, with some salt and dust swimming in them. We have a universe within ourselves that mimics the universe outside. None of us are just black or white, or never wrong and always right. No one. No one exists without polarities. Everybody has good and bad forces working with them, against them, and within them.   From- PART SUN AND MOON by Suzy Kassem" ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 319: 3 Socks/Books/Musicals30 avr. 202600:49:10
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 319 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
  • 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- Check out all of Jessalu's bags and accessories at NH Sheep and Wool - May 9 & 10 in Deerfield NH & at the Webs Tent Sale- May 15-17 in Northampton, MA, Massachusetts Sheep & Wool- May 23 & 24 in Cummington, MA   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL. Ends December 21st (but you don't have to finish. 2 prize drawings will be done).
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.
  • I bordered one square with a worsted weight Cascade 220 black yarn which I didn't like. Tune in to hear my tale of woe after I decided to machine wash squares before weaving in all of the ends.
  • 23 squares (I think)
  Jelly Roll Blanket   
  • Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram.
  • Progress: I finished 2 columns and nearly done with the third
  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
  • Progress, I am finally onto the decrease section.
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color & 20 ounces of Grey Shetland from Forever in Fiber on Etsy
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • Finished spinning the first 4 oz of Shetland and started spinning another.
  • I wound off 2 bobbins of the Pucker Brush onto storage bobbins and then wound off the Shetland onto storage bobbins.
  Midnight Orchid Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples.
  • Progress: Cast on both socks on two separate needles.
  Sunday Brunch Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Sunday Brunch at the Breakfast Club colorway; club colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: mini skein in a medium denim blue. Self striping- tan, navy, mustard, pink, coffee w/ milk brown.
  • Progress: several inches into the first sock's foot
  Merry Christmas Kevin
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: a few inches to the first leg. Knit on these in Saturday in NYC, during Book of Mormon.
  Brainstorming   I knit a swatch out of DK cream yarn I had in stash with colorwork in handspun. I haven't taken the time to check gauge after washing it, but that may be my next colorwork yoke sweater. I love using the Ravelry advanced search to search by gauge.   DK Tank & similar fingering weight version
  • (DK) Top Sol by Mochi Knits $9.77 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry or the designer's website.
  • (Fingering weight yarn) the Claire vest- available on Ravelry or the designer's website.
  Summer Raffia Clutch Bag by Anna Ushakova -$4 crochet pattern available on Ravelry or $7.50 on Etsy   From the Armchair   Books
  1. Good People by Patmeena Sabit. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. Buckeye by Patrick Ryan. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. River is Waiting by Wally Lamb. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  Musicals
  1. Beauty and the Beast- this show is touring through next November.
  2. Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York- check out our video set to the opening song.
  3. Book of Mormon  (this show is also touring if you want to see it in a city near you)
  Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing
  • I had a nice chat with a little boy and his grandmother on the train during MA school vacation week. He was absolutely mesmerized.
  In My Travels   NYC for Riley & Aila's birthdays!
  • Friday: Thrifting, shopping, coffee, FAO Schwartz (for JellyCat Cafe but they didn't have any openings). We met Laura for dinner at Serendipity in Times Square.
  • Saturday: we scored Rush tickets for Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York, did a little more shopping and eating (got in some NYC pizza of course) then to see the show at 2p which Laura joined us for. Then we all had dinner at Dos Caminos before our 7p Book of Mormon Show. At home, we heated up a cinnamon roll Laura went all the way downtown to get us from Losers.
  • Sunday: we got bagels and then coffee, finished the TikTok video to the Two Strangers opening song and then hit the road.
  • Stay tuned for a YouTube video of our adventures.
  KAL News   Splash Pad Party '26 Details   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Events   Life in Focus   26 in 2026 List  
  • E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events (17 as of 4/25!)
  • L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books (24 as of 4/27)
  • N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once (scheduled for April)
  • Q-Quarterly review of calendar/photos & goals (to make Year in Review easier and faster)- calendar it! March done
  • S- Socks- knit 26 pair- 6 done so far.
  • W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month (put reminders on my calendar at the beginning of each month to help remind me) Jan, Feb, March, April done
    On a Happy Note
  • During a short spell of what actually felt like Spring weather, Dan and I went to our friend's daughter's high school lacrosse game and then out for dinner after.
  • I joined Dan for his weekly card game. We played Five Crowns, which I really enjoy.
  • We had dinner with Dan's cousins who we don't see often and then with an old high school friend of Dan's who he hasn't seen in over 25 years! He and his wife were lovely. Fun chat.
  • We brought Hattie to Beauty and the Beast, looking all beautiful in her Belle dress. She had an absolute blast.
  • My work friends were reminiscing about this funny old cell phone commercial video we used to love watching it. Check out show notes for link to the video 
  Quote of the Week   " I think one of the things that makes theater special is first of all, it's one of the last places you put your phone away." - Lin-Manuel Miranda   " I know the world is filled with troubles and many injustices. But reality is as beautiful as it is ugly. I think it is just as important to sing about beautiful mornings as it is to talk about slums. I just couldn't write anything without hope in it." - Oscar Hammerstein   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 318: Springtime & Shows15 avr. 202600:37:13
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 318 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
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Northern Lights Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Northern Lights Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Started November 2024, but I don't think I've ever mentioned them on the podcast.
  • About the yarn- thin stripes of cream broken up 3 shades of teal/light blue, 2 grays and 1 deep purple.
  October 2025 Sock Club Socks
  • Yarn: agirlandherwool Sock Yarn in the October 2025 Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Mystery self-striping sock yarn club- stripes of peach, orange, yellow and green.
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL. Ends December 21st (but you don't have to finish. 2 prize drawings will be done).
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.
  • Progress- 23 squares
  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
  • Progress: Nearly done with the increase section!
  Midnight Orchid Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples.
  • Progress: Cast on both socks on two separate needles.
  Pollen Party Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini)
  • 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 am nearly done with sock 1
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color & 20 ounces of Grey Shetland from Forever in Fiber on Etsy
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • I started spinning the Shetland and its so dreamy. I'm still working on the first 4 oz bump.
  From the Armchair   Books   Musical: The Outsiders   Note: Some links are 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 Making a flower arrangement to put under the headstone/bench at the cemetery for Mom.   KAL News Splash Pad Party will start Friday May 22nd and run through July 31st. Sponsor call has gone out to email subscribers. Will share on social soon. https://www.downcellarstudio.com/26sppsponsor/ to learn more about sponsor options for Splash Pad '26.   Events   On a Happy Note
  • Connecting with our nephew Oisin over a re-watch of West Wing.
  • Seeing Rent- but especially how much Riley enjoys it. The show fell on Eme's 22nd birthday so that was fun too!
  • Riley turned 18! So proud of that kid!
  • Katie's Randomness (Pigskin sponsor) was having a winter sale. I splurged on two winter bags- one Gilmore Girls themed and the other Christmas chickens!
  • I checked out a new to our area secondhand shop- Uptown Cheapskate.
  • Despite cooler temps and rain, we had a lovely Easter dinner at my Dad's.
  • A text from my SIL after Easter dinner saying that Zach (who turns 4 in May) went to bed Easter night asking if my dad was coming to his birthday party.
  • I inadvertently made a ridiculously large batch of Superhero muffins because I added too much salt. Turns out I can make 94 muffins in about 3 hours. Not too shabby! Good thing they freeze well.
  • Warming temps and quieter weekends after a stressful work week.
  • My Monday morning workout turned into a country music jam! Such a fun way to start the week.
  Quote of the Week Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. -William Arthur Ward ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 317: Motivational Media31 mars 202600:45:14
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 317 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
  • In my Travels
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu & shop with them at the Fiber Witch Festival- April 24-26th in Salem, MA   Thank you to this episode's sponsor The Yarn Sellar & check out details for their Fiber Marketplace (April 11, 2026) here       Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Spectrum Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Spectrum Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Back to the Future Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes. Micro-Sock Kit in the Back to the Future Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Back to the Future Sock set- gifted to me by Sue & Chelsea- part of their 4 Sundays of Advent yarn in 2025.
  Treysta
  • Pattern: Treysta by Jennifer Steingass $8.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the Laine publishing website
  • Yarn: MC- Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in Oatmeal. CC1: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page) dark blue.  CC2: Harrisville Designs New England Highland in #34 High Aster (pink). CC3: Brown Sheep Company Prairie Spun DK in Rain Cloud (gray)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   October 2025 Sock Club Socks
  • Yarn: agirlandherwool Sock Yarn in the October 2025 Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Mystery self-striping sock yarn club- stripes of peach, orange, yellow and green.
  • Progress: finished sock 1 and cast on sock 2. I'm a few inches into the leg.
  Pollen Party Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini)
  • 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 knit most of the leg of the first sock.
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color & 20 ounces of Grey Shetland from Forever in Fiber on Etsy
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • Progress: I started spinning the Shetland and its so dreamy. I'm about half way through the first 4 oz bump.
  Brainstorming
  • Cream DK weight yarn from Aunt Florence will pair well with mustard handspun for another colorwork yoke sweater!
  • I received the latest subscription yarn from Woolens & Nosh in the mail this weekend and I'm itching to cast it on. The colorway is called Sunday Brunch at the Breakfast Club
  From the Armchair   Books   Movie: Project Hail Mary Musical: Suffs Check out this Time Magazine article.   Note: Some links are 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 got a lot of great compliments on the new flower granny square ski balaclava (Ravelry Project Page) I crocheted last month. I wore it skiing at Sunday River.
  In My Travels
  • I shared about our recent ski trip to Sunday River in Maine. We enjoyed dinner at the Brick & Stone Tavern in Rumford on Friday night, Dance party at VRBO house Friday night, Steam Mill Brewing in Bethel (right near the mountain) on Saturday night and breakfast at Terry & Maxine's in Turner, ME
  • Riley and I visited the Boston Public Market's 2026 Fiberfest on March 22. I think they had about 20 vendors there, some free demos, and a great atmosphere. Parking is only $3 for 3 hours. It was my first real outing wearing my Traveler Sweater!
  Events   Life in Focus   A few updates   26 in 2026 Updates
  • B- Blood- donate at least 4 times (1/20, 3/17)
  • D- Declutter 26+ items- delivered a trunk full in February
  • E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events 9 as of now)
  • F-Find 2-6 new things and try them out! 1) Live music at The Cottage
  • J- Journal- Write 365 entries in my I Remember Journal about Mom (inspired by Liz Craft who talked about it on Ep 451 of Happier in Hollywood podcast)
  • K- Knit at least 2 projects with handspun (Treysta sweater, Inclinations Cowl in progress)
  • L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books (18 as of March)
  • N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once (scheduled for April)
  • R- Restaurant- try at least 1 new local restaurant (Blu in Theater District 3/26)
  • S- Socks- knit 26 pair- 6 done so far.
  • W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month ---Jan, Feb, March done
    On a Happy Note
  • Ski weekend at Sunday River. At the igloo we ordered a chocolate chip cookie from the gluten free food truck and it was HUGE (and delicious).
  • There was a very low ceiling in our rental house- and I just looked back at photos to get ready for to record and there's a funny one of Riley and me touching the ceiling- I knew Hattie jumped in for the last one but I didn't realize she was holding a kids sized pool cue to touch the ceiling too! Hilarious.
  • Jeff, Megg, Riley and I all did a word search on the breakfast menu after skiing- we all took it so seriously which was just so fun!
  • Lost power after a big wind storm, but it came back on earlier than expected- Dan and I still went out to dinner at fav local Italian restaurants (pro tip- it was a great choice on St. Patrick's Day)
  • Broadway soundtrack for Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York came out on the SAME day as the Project Hail Mary movie released in theater (yes, we went opening day).
  • Megg and I renewed our Broadway in Boston subscription for 2027! It's a great line up- Hell's Kitchen, Phantom of the Opera, A Beautiful Noise, Tommy, Death Becomes Her, Maybe Happy Ending, Operation Mincemeat & The Notebook. There are a few other shows available that we may add on.
  • My friend Marta booked her plane tickets to come visit from Barcelona this summer!
  • Going out for Live Irish music at a local pub
  • My friend Nancy Kelley's second book just came out! The Courage of Two: Anne Hutchinson, Mary Dyer and the Fight for Freedom of Conscience in Early America.
  Quote of the Week "The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also." -Harriet Jacobs   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 316: Cast it On, Work it Out15 mars 202600:43:23
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 316 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
  • Knitting in Passing
  • In my Travels
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsor The Yarn Sellar & check out details for their Fiber Marketplace (April 11, 2026) here.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Neckerchief
  • Pattern: none (inspired by Sophie Scarf by Petite Knit (paid pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks,  Dream base (80% Merino, 10% Cashmere goat, 10% Nylon). No colorway name listed. Variegated yarn with a tan base, pinks, greens, purples and mustards.
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Because I'm using fingering weight yarn, I decided to use the cast on from my Millie Margaret Shawl and figure it out as I go.
    • Millie Margaret Shawl (fingering weight)-Ravelry
  • I did the increases up to 5 inches the pattern calls for and now I'm knitting straight. I'll reverse my increases w/ decreases on the other side and see how I like it.
  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, but I don't necessarily love 1x1 ribbing every other row. Still I'm making progress and I know I'll love wearing it.
  Treysta
  • Pattern: Treysta by Jennifer Steingass $8.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the Laine publishing website
  • Yarn: MC- Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in Oatmeal. CC1: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page) dark blue. CC2: Harrisville Designs New England Highland in #34 High Aster (pink). CC3: Brown Sheep Company Prairie Spun DK in Rain Cloud (gray)
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I finished the colorwork section and have split for the sleeves.
  Spectrum Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Spectrum 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: finished first sock during Hattie's birthday sleepover. Worked on sock #2 while Megg, Rose and I saw Cabaret.
  Northern Lights Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Northern Lights 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- thin stripes of cream broken up 3 shades of teal/light blue, 2 grays and 1 deep purple.
  • Finished sock 1 recently. Cast on sock 2. 
  October 2025 Sock Club Socks
  • Yarn: agirlandherwool Sock Yarn in the October 2025 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: beyond the heel on the first sock
  From the Armchair     Note: Some links are 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 traded socks for handmade bowls with my new friend Rose! What a great trade!   In My Travels   Ryan, Millie and I went to Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Gardens Center in Wayland, MA. Some highlights include:
  • It was our 3rd year of wearing overall's- Millie's choice for our somewhat matching outfits.
  • 3rd year without Mom. She didn't come in 2024, the last one she was here for, because she was in St. Maarten. Good for her! But we obviously missed her last year and this year too.
  • I purchased 3 plants. Millie picked out a plant for her mom.
  • I bought 20 ounces of Gray Shetland from Forever in Fiber (Etsy).
  • Millie got to show Ann Weaver of Plied Yarns the hat she knit for her Dad for Christmas.
  • We needlefelted with the folks from Blue Heron Farm
  • We enjoyed lunch at The Local across the street after.
    Events     On a Happy Note
  • Chris Stapleton concert with Jeff, Riley & Dad
  • Seussical with Megg and Hattie
  • Hattie's birthday sleepover- trampoline park, pizza, cookies, Cat & the Hat pancake, pompoms and rehearsing for her Seussical audition
  • A quieter week!
  • Starting a March Madness Challenge at the gym + taking an adult ballet class from my friend Kris
  • Chatting with my friend Marta about her trip back to America this summer
  • Seeing Cabaret
  • Karaoke night in a private room for my friend Megg's birthday.
  • I got to see my nephew Garret on his 16th birthday. I got a text of him driving with his learner's permit a few days later.
  Quote of the Week "Community is much more than belonging to something; it' about doing something together that makes belonging matter." — Brian Solis     Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 315: Short & SWEET28 févr. 202600:47:01
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 315 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Gus the Dino
  • Pattern: Gus the Dino by KP Crochet Patterns. $8.50 US Pattern on Etsy
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green & Parfait Chunky in White
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • The original eyes were too big, so I ripped off his head, made a new one and used smaller eyes which look great. Millie loves him.
  Manta Ray
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Two versions available- I chose the one with an inner pocket. it looks like a  hot water bottle that opens up at the mouth, which makes the ray a pocket for all of the other toys (well, barely).
  Nemo
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava minis in Orange, Black & White
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Clown Fish
  Gill
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava minis in Custard, Black & White
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Pearl
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Pink Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Octopus
  Bubbles
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Yellow
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yellow Tang fish
  Angelfish
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in White & Yellow
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Seahorse- Sheldon
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Yellow & Orange
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Arielle's Socks
  • Yarn: Edelweiss Fibres Standard Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon), 425m for 100g in the Hillside Heather 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- maroons, browns and greens.
  Kirby Wirby 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Kirby Wirby 75/25 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the 2025 Advent Christmas Toys from the 80s 24 Stripe Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn theme: Christmas Toys from the 80s
  Flower Ski balaclava
  • Pattern: none
  • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids & Knit Picks Brava Worsted
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • My Blizzard of 2026 project. I wanted another colorful balaclava. I wanted more peripheral vision. I'm excited to wear this skiing and decide if I like the fit better than my first ski helmet balaclava (Ravelry Project Page).
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Northern Lights Socks
  • Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Northern Lights 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- thin stripes of cream broken up 3 shades of teal/light blue, 2 grays and 1 deep purple.
  • Progress: I finished sock 1 recently. Cast on sock 2. 
  October 2025 Sock Club Socks
  • Yarn: agirlandherwool Sock Yarn in the October 2025 Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
    Brainstorming
  • I really want to cast on a sweater ideally using at least some handspun and I keep getting stuck. UGH.
  • I may swatch for this tank with cream handspun- Camisole No 7 pattern by My Favourite Things- Ravelry Pattern Page
  From the Armchair  
  1. Wuthering Heights by Emma Bronte. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker.  Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. Tough Guy by Rachel Reid (Book 3 in Game Changer series). 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 '25 Wrap Up   Thank Yous!  
  • Wendy (socalknitgirl)- Umpire
  • Heather (zoomdogknits)- Sheep Conference
  • Emily (ElsaandEm)- Llama Conference
  • Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Conference
  • Mary (Maryklute)- Commentator
  • Nicole (knitternicole)- Utility Player
Thank you to ALL of our sponsors and especially our official sponsors for each of our 4 Quarters:   Pigskin '25 By the Numbers  
  • 1 Awesome event!
  • 3 Conferences, comprised of
  • 12 Teams!
  • 43 Projects completed during the WIP challenge
  • 70 Projects completed on the most popular completion date: 12/31/25
  • 75 Support Forms addressed
  • 146 Projects started on the 2nd most-popular starting date: 12/1/25  (Advent projects, anyone?!)
  • 184 Projects completed during the Pink Challenge to support Breast Cancer Awareness
  • 200 Most popular yardage reported for projects
  • 224 Projects started on Kick Off Day 9/4/25
  • 276 Projects completed for the most popular challenge (Q1 Challenge)
  • 578 Participants!  New high!  41% reported being first timers
  • 730 Charity projects completed!  Charity was the most popular of the Special Teams
  • 1,301 Non-project submissions (challenges, bonuses, draft)
  • 4,736 Projects started and completed during the event
  • 19,148 Total points for the leader 904Stephanie.  She made 79 projects and is frequently crocheting blankets for charity.
  12 Grand Prize Winners Announced! Tune in to hear if you won big!     On a Happy Note
  • Skiing with Jeff and Millie. Great weather, great conditions, lines weren't too long!
  • We had Hattie for a sleepover
  • Millie's birthday sleepover
  • Blizzard of 2026
  • Dinner with my cousins
  Quote of the Week "I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, "Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again."   ― Lewis Carroll, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland / Through the Looking-Glass   ------   For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 314: Rip It!15 févr. 202600:57:49
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 314 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
  • Contest, News & Notes
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hattie's Rainbow Mittens
    • Pattern: Little Waiting for Winter Mittens by Susan B. Anderson- $4 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Vegas Baby colorway
    • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- stripes of gray, blue, green, mustard, red and pink.
  Hattie's Sparkly Mittens
  • Pattern: Little Waiting for Winter Mittens by Susan B. Anderson- 
    • $4 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Fingering yarn held double- 1 sparkle & 1 non-sparkle base (sparkles are 20g minis from Legacy Fiber Artz Advent calendars of years past)
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon) in a sage green
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: 3
  • Drawstring- fingering weight yarn- US 6 DPNs. I washed it several times, because it was bleeding yellow. I had to wash it several times before all of the rest of the dye let go.
  • Finished. Washed it. Sleeves were too big. I had 28 purl ridges on the sleeves, I ripped back 7 and then worked the ribbing.
  • Wore to Hattie's birthday dinner. Very comfy cozy. I am finding the weight of the hood wants to pull it back on my neck which I'm not sure I love. Have you found this?
  Woolens & Nosh 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh, 75/25 Superwash Wool/Nylon 2025 Advent 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 right after I finished the last episode. Love these so much!
  Dory
  • Pattern: Mega Ray & Sea Friends by Theresa's Crochet Shop- $15.50 pattern on website or Etsy
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava minis in Celestial, Custard, Black & White
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Gus the Dino
  • Pattern: Gus the Dino by KP Crochet Patterns. $8.50 US Pattern on Etsy (on sale right now)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green & Parfait Chunky in White
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 35 mm eyes were too big! I bought smaller ones, beheaded Gus and gave him a new head with new eyes!
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Back to the Future Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes. Micro-Sock Kit in the Back to the Future Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Back to the Future Sock set- gifted to me by Sue & Chelsea- part of their 4 Sundays of Advent yarn in 2025.
  • About the Colorway- speckles of pink, orange, yellow purple and blue with a blue/purple mini.
  • Progress- just about to toe of sock 1
  Arielle's Socks
  • Yarn: Edelweiss Fibres Standard Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon), 425m for 100g in the Hillside Heather 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- maroons, browns and greens.
  • Cast on both on separate needles. Progress- a few inches into leg on one sock, ready to work the toe on the other
    • US 6 shoe. 7.25 inches before toe. About 8.5 inches total foot length.
  Kirby Wirby 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Kirby Wirby 75/25 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the 2025 Advent Christmas Toys from the 80s 24 Stripe Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn theme: Christmas Toys from the 80s
  • Progress- turned heel on sock 2
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • I plied up about 8.5grams of the BFL with the Finnsheep. 23 wraps (690 inches/19 yards) .3 ounces / around 8.5 grams
  • I've been keeping my wheel next to my spot on the couch and spinning if not every day, then more days than not.
  Handspun documentation
  • I went through nearly all of my handspun skeins of yarn. I made updates in each page on Ravelry to add skein information. You can enter length and weight and it add that to your stash.  I also ended up changing the names of the finished projects to include the weight and length! I wrote yarn weight (dk sport etc) on physical tags i have on the yarn. So much easier for me to work with.
  Brainstorming
  • I have 3 skeins of Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool that I used to start a Waverly Cardigan (but the gauge is just too tight)- click here for my Ravelry Project Page. I think it might be good for the Lakes Pullover by Ozetta (Ravelry Pattern- $8 knitting pattern). I found this by searching the yarn on ravelry then doing the advance pattern search to look for sweaters people knit with this yarn.
    • Related- Eileen recently asked if someone in our group had knit a certain pattern she had questions about before purchasing/committing to. If you look at the pattern on Rav and click the Projects Tab. You can use the filters there to select "Made by Group Members" and then click on the Rav group you want to look in. You can use that to see who you want to chat w/ about it.
  • ElizabethisKnitting (on Instagram- shared her Winter Soul Sweater in this post. Its so beautiful! Why are you not all knitting this? Great question. You can find this pattern on Ravelry.
  From the Armchair  
  1. Greenwich by Kate Broad. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. The Maid by Nita Prose. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  4. Little One by Olivia Muenter. Amazon Affiliate Link
  5. Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  6. The Widow's Husband's Secret Lie (A Satirical Novella) by Freida McFadden. 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 At Hattie's birthday dinner, Emelyn asked for help crocheting a circle. They were making a stuffed animal to look like a stage like and had everything done but the center bulk part. Aila also ended up working on it with us.   OMG Sock Classes are finished! All of my students turned their heels, some did both socks. Many did their toes and kitchenered. They all had fun and were far more successful than they anticipated so that was very exciting.   KAL News   Pigskin Party '25 is over!
  • Event Dates: KAL Dates- Thursday September 4, 2025- Monday February 9, 2026
  Updates In This Episode
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers- winner announced
  • Commentary from Mary
  • January Participation Prize Winners Announced
  • Grand Prize winners will be announced in the next episode.
Commentator Update Thanks to everyone for another fantastic season! The February huddle has been full of chatter about all the projects people rushed to finish before the deadline. However, one of my favorite conversations has been in response to beachsideknits2's question: What is weirdest/most random thing you've ever made?  Here are some fantastic answers (prepare to be wowed!)   Beachsideknit2's succulent pillow- Ravelry Project Page   Tanksoup's Tiktaalik (in case you are like me and had no idea what a tiktaalik is, it "is a 375 million year old fossil fish that was discovered in the Canadian Arctic in 2004" according to this site. Check out Tanksoup's Ravelry Project Page    Leahbothe's nose sweaters- Ravelry Project Page   And socalknitgirl's top hat—Ravelry Project Page   I hope everyone has as much fun as I did this season!  See you all this summer for splash pad party!   Mary     Contest, News & Notes   Ross Farm fire   Check out this news article with details about the fire. https://www.therossfarm.com/news/the-historic-1910-ross-farm-barn-is-gone/?fbclid=PARlRTSAPwYN1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAafOMNrVQ19TqGoOmtKunKFqVlZXXUqsHCvmccte_PrD7E_IGSwNSqqi-80arQ_aem_OihXOR730LvCCVRCd5sweQ if you're interested in donating or consider purchasing yarn, fiber etc and letting these sheep live on even after they're gone.   On a Happy Note
  • I bought a new car!
  • I went to see Sleepwalker at a local theater.  Here's a link to a review that sums up some of my thoughts.
  • I went to see Some Like it Hot in Boston. Megg & I got a fabulous dinner beforehand at Yvonne's. Our waitress even brought over a delicious dumpling dish for us to try (sans lobster).
  • Friday date nights with Dan
  • Running into Riley & her bestie Ellie at Lucky Finn, my current local favorite coffee shop- after the gym on a Saturday morning. It was so hilarious!
  • Very much enjoyed Pluribus on Apple TV+. 
  • Seeing Millie in Finding Nemo Jr. and an early dinner after with family.
  • Mani/pedis with Megg, Eme & Hattie for Hattie's birthday.
  • Super Bowl- while we lost it's always fun to watch. I enjoyed the commercials, and had fun cheering on the Seahawks kicker Jason Myers who played football at Marist where I went to college (now Marist University)
  • Hattie's 8th birthday dinner. Dad and I did a Zoom beforehand in celebration of what would have been Mom's 70th with a few of her cousins.
  Quote of the Week Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. -Dalai Lama     ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 313: Fresh31 janv. 202600:48:29
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 313 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
  • Knitting in Passing
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   I mended Hattie's mittens (store bought) and added snaps to her mermaid's removable tail.   Granny Square Ski Helmet Balaclava
  • Pattern: none
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Dove Heather & Marina, Big Twist Value Solids in Aqua, Vanna's Choice in Charcoal Gray + 1 unknown blue worsted weight acrylic yarn.
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I did one square to practice and see how I liked the colors together. Originally had a pop of a lime green in there. Liked the colors but didn't love the square. I also used that square to see for the smaller skeins (~30g) would I have enough yarn. I made a second square and that one I really enjoyed.
  • 7 colors- from center out- light gray, medium/bright blue, white, aqua, charcoal, marina (teal), white
  • I made 8 squares. Check out this Instagram post from Grandma.era on how to seam them together.
  • Chroma Twist Bulky in Cousteau for trim around the face and along the bottom edge.
  • It was riding on the train with me in my AdoreKnit Pigskin Party bag.
    • Did you see that Steph from Adoreknit donated 10% of her Down Cellar Studio KAL items to our FearLESS Living Fund? With your help she donated $613 in 2025!
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Back to the Future Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes. Micro-Sock Kit in the Back to the Future Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Back to the Future Sock set- gifted to me by Sue & Chelsea- part of their 4 Sundays of Advent yarn in 2025.
  • About the Colorway- speckles of pink, orange, yellow purple and blue with a blue/purple mini.
  • I cast these on before day trip up to Loon Mountain. I am almost to the heel of sock 1.
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon) in a sage green
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Size: 3
  • Drawstring- fingering weight yarn- US 6 DPNs. I washed it several times, because it was bleeding yellow. I had to wash it several times before all of the rest of the dye let go.
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • I plied up about 8.5 grams of the BFL with the Finnsheep. 23 wraps (690 inches/19 yards)
  • Knit up a swatch on a US 4 and got gauge almost exactly
  • To knit another size 3 Traveler I think I need approximately 19 ounces of each fiber.
  • I did a lot of spinning during the big snowstorm we got last weekend. I am so into it! I cleaned my wheel and wound off fiber onto storage bobbins.
  Woolens & Nosh 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh, 75/25 Superwash Wool/Nylon 2025 Advent 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: worked on the foot of the second sock during game night at home
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL. Ends December 21st (but you don't have to finish. 2 prize drawings will be done).
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
  • Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.
  • Progress- made one more. Total to date: 12
  Hattie's Rainbow Mittens
  • Pattern: Little Waiting for Winter Mittens by Susan B. Anderson
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Vegas Baby colorway
  • Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Cast on at Fiber Club at my library. The next morning my train was slow so I finished all but the thumb on the first mitten.  Cast on second
  • About the colorway- stripes of gray, blue, green, mustard, red and pink.
  From the Armchair     Note: Some links are 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   A look back my 2025 fiber crafting and podcast related items.   60 projects- click here to see these projects in Ravelry.
  • 47 gifts/ 13 for me
  • 34 knit/ 26 crochet
  • No finished spinning projects
  • 1 bag
  • 3 blankets
  • 6 cozies
  • 8 hats
  • 25 socks
  • 1 Christmas stocking
  • 1 sweater
  • 2 tops
  • 13 toys
  Other fun numbers:
  • Podcast Episodes- 23
  • Videos on YouTube- 33
  • BostonJen1- Instagram Followers-10,275 - I finally hit 10k!!!!!!!
  • Ravelry Group Members: 3137  (up from 2981 in 2024)
  • 1 Interview for Love in Stitches Group
  • Podcaster Meet-ups: 1 with Natalie at Flock; 1 at Rhinebeck
  • I was paid to do social media for the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul
  Knitting in Passing  
  • I am teaching classes on the OMG Sock at Staci's Stitches, my LYS and enjoying seeing my students progress!
  • My friend Mara texted me from the Celtics game the other night saying she was fairly sure one of the other fans in her section was wearing an Ice Time Hat (one of my designs)- you can find the pattern on  Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  KAL News   Pigskin Party '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers. Check out this Ravelry Thread for  4th & Goal with Yarnaceous Fibers Challenge Details
  • Wild Card WIP Bonus- check out this Ravelry thread for details (ran 1/5/26 through 1/16/26)- 43 projects finished. Check out this view of the Ravelry chat thread which shows all of the Projects mentioned. A few highlights:
    • ScrapperChris made a beautiful snowflake cardigan (started in 2020)- Ravelry Project Page
    • TXHeather crocheted a 2k+ meter Christmas Tree skirt (also started in 2020)- Ravelry Project Page
    • IWillKnitUaSock- finished knitting a beautiful Angel's Eyes cabled cardigan sweater by Thea Colman that she started in 2022- Ravelry Project Page
    • ImaginedLandscapes finished not 1 but 2 beautiful sweaters, the Diona Pullover (Ravelry Project Page) & the Sonrae (Ravelry Project Page)
  Commentator Update We are in the home stretch of the Pigskin Party and players are working hard to finish their projects before the clock expires!     I wandered over to the end zone dance thread to see what players have finished recently. Here are some amazing projects that caught my eye:   There's been a lot of conversation in the January huddle about laundry…yep, you heard that right. It's actually pretty fascinating. I've learned a lot. But whether you are into laundry or not, come on over to the friendliest place on the internet before the PSP is over!   Events   Life in Focus   26 in 2026 List
  1. A-Aim for one night at week at the pool in July and August- make it regular and invite friends to pop over
  2. B- Blood- donate at least 5 times
  3. C- Christmas Sleepover
  4. D- Declutter 26+ items
  5. E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events
  6. F-Find 2-6 new things and try them out!
  7. G-Go on a trip with Dan (just us)
  8. H- Headshots for Hattie
  9. I- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum- GO!
  10. J- Journal- Write 365 entries in my I Remember Journal about Mom (inspired by Liz Craft who talked about it on Ep 451 of Happier in Hollywood podcast)
  11. K- Knit at least 2 projects with handspun
  12. L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books
  13. M- Museum- go to at least 1
  14. N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once
  15. O- Organize a FearLESS Living Fundraiser
  16. P- Puzzle- do at least 1 with Dan
  17. Q-Quarterly review of calendar/photos & goals (to make Year in Review easier and faster)- calendar it!
  18. R- Restaurant- try at least 1 new local restaurant
  19. S- Socks- knit 26 pair
  20. T- Tattoo
  21. U- Up the amount of muscle in my body- at least 1 pound by end of the year.
  22. V- Vlogmas- take the year off (even if you're tempted)
  23. W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month (put reminders on my calendar at the beginning of each month to help remind me)
  24. X- Cross 1 thing off this list that no longer serves me
  25. Y-Yoga at least 2-6 times
  26. Z- Create Zone to keep important papers
    On a Happy Note
  • Wonder at ART- extended through 2/5. Check out their website for tickets.
  • Sound of Music at the Boston Opera House
  • Game night with Liz, Jay, Riley and Dan.
  • A snowy slow MLK weekend.
  • Car shopping.
  • I've been able to hack 3 classes a week at my gym.
  • A cold walk with Megg at Wompatuck.
  • A cute message about Miles enjoying his Christmas gifts- "emotional support calendar"
  • A pipe broke while I was washing woolies on Sunday during snowstorm. Silverlining was that Dan had the part we needed on hand and was able to fix it so quickly.
  Quote of the Week "Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you." -Nathaniel Hawthorne   ---- Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 312: Crafting & Contemplation15 janv. 202600:53:23
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 312 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
  • 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   Sheri's Christmas Socks
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Echos in Colorway 1515 (blue to purple gradient in 2-50g skeins)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Gus the Dino
  • Pattern: Gus the Dino by KP Crochet Patterns. $8.50 US Pattern on Etsy (on sale right now)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green & Parfait Chunky in White
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I got 35 mm eyes from Amazon
  Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Splendid Sock (100% SW Merino) in the Emerald Colorway, Murky Depths Deep Sock in the Age of Aquarium Colorway & Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Vanilla Bean colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) and US 2
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • The first sock is a colorwork leg sock with things the Very Hungry Caterpillar I measured from another socks- 12 rounds per inch. Goal is a 5 inch leg (after cuff), so ~60 rounds
    • Cast on 56 sts with US 1.5 for cuff. After cuff, knit a few rounds before doing 4 sets of increases (4 increases each time) to get to 72 sts. Then changed to US 2 needles and tested for stretchiness after first block of colorwork.
    • Using that I plotted out the colorwork for one sock based on Pacific Knit Co's Garden Doodle set.
  • The second sock is has 12 round stripes of the 2 green colorways with a red toe to look like the caterpillar.
  Miles Penguin
  • Pattern: Penguin by Lion Brand Yarn- free crochet pattern on the Lion Brand website
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted minis in Black, Clarity, White and Orange colorways
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • For this one I used two black circles bordered by white so I could skip the safety eyes (Miles is under 2 years old).
  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 started these socks in October 2024 and finished on January 5, 2026
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh, 75/25 Superwash Wool/Nylon 2025 Advent Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Kirby Wirby 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Kirby Wirby 75/25 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the 2025 Advent Christmas Toys from the 80s 24 Stripe Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn theme: Christmas Toys from the 80s
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon) in a sage green
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: finished the first sleeve and I'm at the cuff of the the second.
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • I found 4oz of Ironwood Hill Farm Roving- Finnsheep combed top that I purchased in April 2021. Unfortunately I can't find more of this on Cece's Wool site or Ironwood's etsy shop, but I think it will give me the idea for a tan/brown color plied with the colorful yarn, so I spun enough to make a sample yarn to swatch with.
  Brainstorming Crochet Ski Helmet Balaclava available on Etsy for $7.36   Knitting in Passing
  • Millie finished the hat she was knitting for her dad with yarn from Plied Yarn Co.
  • Aila loved her goose purse! Her reaction was priceless
  • Eme loved their Very Hungry Caterpillar socks
  • My dad bought me a set of 2 organizers for socks. Each holds 30 pair. Great for my handknits. They sit on the shelf in our closet and are a gray cotton/linen that matches our hampers! Here's an Amazon Affiliate Link in case you're interested in checking them out.
  From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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 '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher Mini Maker's Merry Month See details in this Ravelry Thread. Winner announced
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers. Check out this Ravelry Thread for  4th & Goal with Yarnaceous Fibers Challenge Details
  • December Participation Winners Announced
  • Wild Card WIP Bonus- check out this Ravelry thread for details
  Commentator Update Happy new year pigskin partiers!  The January huddle is abuzz with conversation. Several players have posted a list of everything that they made in 2025. We have some really prolific players in the group! The best thing about the conversation is that no one is competitive about it. Just lots of celebrations!  I find it kind of inspiring to see what others have accomplished. For example, hikesandbikes finished 54 knitted knockers! What a great cause! It inspires me to try knitting some this year.  Come on over and join the chat if you want to get inspired too!  A few players have decided that they want to make sweaters in 2026. If you want to join in the fun, hop on over to a new Sweater MAL thread: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4390076/1-25 Another interesting topic of conversation in the January huddle stemmed from the unfortunate injury of one of our players. Sadly, she sprained her wrist. The group came through with lots of ideas for what to do when you can't knit and crochet, including needle felting, doing puzzles, watercolors, playing with art supplies, journaling and as MrsQuilt put it, "whining, reading, and actually paying attention to what is on the TV" I am wishing you all health, happiness, and strong crafting mojo in the new year! Mary   Events   Contest, News & Notes
  • Check out my Vlogmas videos if you haven't already- click here for the full playlist.
  • Thanks to Nellsknitting for starting a thread in the Ravelry Group about a Sweater KAL 2026. (Danielle in MA)- great chatter about WIPs, planning etc. Want to cast on and need some encouragement? check it out.
  Life in Focus   In this episode I reviewed my 2025 word of the year and 25 in 25 list.   My Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome   25 in 2025  
  1. Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March, May, Sept)
  2. Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year (my Christmas gift from him)
  3. Buy new ski boots
  4. Go camping (scheduled for June)
  5. Kayak 2-5 times (Saco- 2 days)
  6. Do at least 5 walks with others (Megg 3/30)  bike riding with Dan twice in March. Walked with Megg (April), hike Mount Monument (Dan, Megg, Tom, Aila), Laura in 2 National Parks in Washington State 
  7. Take 2-5 yoga classes (outside of the house)--- option- https://balancestudiocohasset.com/book-a-class/
  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-  September 21 with Laura and Megg
  10. Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts)- fallen off.
  11. Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to)(10)
  12. Read at least 60 books- all books count (even poetry etc)
  13. Get at least 2 massages at Oasis (1 in April, 1 in June, 1 in September)
  14. See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru, The Long Walk, Blue Moon, Wicked for Good)
  15. Knit 2-5 garments for me (Aurealis - WIPs-Monsoonee Sweaters, granny stripe tank, Bayside tank) Granny tank, Bayside Shirt
  16. Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket
  17. Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog 2& 3: Love Bugs, 4 pop-tart, 5 butterfly- another butterfly WIP, and TRex)
  18. Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan, Feb & March, April,  July, August, September, Oct, Nov (forgot May & June)
  19. Have a crafty day with Emelie
  20. Knit a slouchy hat for myself
  21. Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, White Lotus official podcast, severance official podcast, Cramped)
  22. Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara (bringing the tradition back)
  23. Buy a firebox and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it)
    1. https://www.thenokbox.com (Debbie, deafelis recommended)
  24. Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation
    1. https://www.thenokbox.com/ -deafelis- Debbie told me about it
  25. Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes
    On a Happy Note
  • Dad's knee replacement was a big success! I stayed with him from December 5-21.
  • Dad and I had a lovely visit from our friend Merry who came with an unexpected gift- a bracelet with beads made from my mom's funeral flowers in red (ruby slipper), yellow (yellow brick road) and white for home.
  • Dan and I had a lovely double date night at the Irish pub with friends.
  • I was able to see my 7 year old niece Hattie as Gretl in Sound of Music (twice!!!)
  • Making Aunt Milly's cookies with Riley and Millie (and having a sleepover with them).
  • Christmas Eve & Christmas Day were both lovely. Definitely different without my Mom and grandmother there but it was still a joy to be together. Our friend Gail joined us as she usually does and brought all sorts of fun games for us to play.
  • The Sunday after Christmas, I was able to spend all afternoon with my grandmother, some of that alone. My friend Megg came over because she wanted to visit and say goodbye. We had dinner together after.
  • My friend Laura came in for NYE. Small get together with friends at my Dad's turned into a real party, though most didn't stay until midnight. Megg wanted it to be a sparkly kind of night so Laura and I got outfits for the three of us at the consignment shop on the way over! Very silly fun.
  • My cousin Mike and his husband Kyle came up from Florida.
  • My grandmother's services were beautiful with contributions from lots of family members. While it was more stressful than mom's, and it was the worst form of deja vu having the same schedule for that exact same Thur/Fri two years in a row- my grandmother would be happy with how it all turned out. 
  • Skiing on Saturday after the funeral. 7 of us, impromptu trip, icy conditions but we still had a blast.
  Quote of the Week "Amidst the normal hard stuff is the abnormal hard stuff. You may be doing great, but no one great always had it great. At the end of each day, as you prepare for the next, I hope you take an inventory of your life, your thoughts and where you're headed. The wind can take you some cool places, but so can your paddle."   ― Richie Norton   ------   Contact Information:  
Episode 311: Advents & Adventures15 déc. 202500:39:30
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 311 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Kris' Christmas socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway & Patons Kroy in Red for heels
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I knit pair of socks out of this same colorway for Mom in 2019- Ravelry Project Page here. That was my 100th pair of OMG Heel socks.
  Elsa
  • Pattern: Queen Elsa Amigurumi by Chiara Cremon (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava (worsted weight acrylic yarn)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Fantastic, really clear pattern. Body is worked from the bottom up all the way through the head, then you add two arms and a cape on the back. I ironed the cape and body to smooth out the fabric.
  Penguin
  • Pattern: Penguin by Lion Brand Yarn- free crochet pattern on the Lion Brand website
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted minis in Black, Clarity, White and Orange colorways
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Over the Rainbow Socks
  • Yarn: Cashmere & Coconuts MCN Sock yarn in the Somewhere Over the Rainbow 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 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh, 75/25 Superwash Wool/Nylon 2025 Advent Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Kirby Wirby 2025 Advent Socks
  • Yarn: Kirby Wirby 75/25 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the 2025 Advent Christmas Toys from the 80s 24 Stripe Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn theme: Christmas Toys from the 80s
  Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks
  • Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Splendid Sock (100% SW Merino) in the Emerald Colorway, Murky Depths Deep Sock in the Age of Aquarium Colorway & Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Vanilla Bean colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) and US 2
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Cast on 56 sts with US 1.5 for cuff. After cuff, knit a few rounds. 4 sets of increases (4 increases each time) to get to 72 sts. Then change to US 2 needles and test for stretchiness after first block of colorwork.
  • Mapped out the colorwork for one sock based on Pacific Knit Co's Garden Doodle set.
  Sheri's Christmas Socks
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Echos in Colorway 1515 (blue to purple gradient in 2-50g skeins)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I cast this on to bring to Rhinebeck on my Lemonwood Mini Minder (I have this Art Deco one) so I could walk and knit.
  • Cast on cuff of sock #2 on a separate pair of needles before going to see Hattie in Shrek so I had that ready to work on. Back at home, I finished the first leg and heel and am on to the foot.
  Gus the Dino
  • Pattern: Gus the Dino by KP Crochet Patterns. $8.50 US Pattern on Etsy (on sale right now)
  • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green & Parfait Chunky in White
  • Hook: J (6.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Brainstorming I shared a check in on Christmas making plans/schedule   From the Armchair   Bury our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab. Amazon Affiliate Link. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover. 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 '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Count On It Challenge hosted by Twice Sheared Sheep, Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November). Details in this Ravelry thread. Winner announced.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher Mini Maker's Merry Month See details in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Stay tuned for more about our Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers
  • November participation prize winners were announced
  Commentator Update from Mary- links in this section bring you to Ravelry Inspired by the Q3 challenge, there's lots of chatter in the December huddle about things to make with mini skeins!  If you are at a loss for what to make, head on over to the huddle for some ideas!  Three players have already submitted for points in the Q3 challenge--and all three of them made patterns by PSP sponsor Sarah Schira (Imagined Landscapes) * Esalaza made a super cute textured stripe scrappy hat in red, green, and white....very festive! * Fgcreations made a gnoel gnome--also very festive in Christmas colors! *Amazeh made a Gnatty the Unexpected Gnome   Way to rack up those points by combining a sponsor pattern with the Q3 challenge!   Speaking of racking up points...I was curious what the highest scoring single point project is so far. DebLinden got 1155 points for one project!  How'd she do it, you ask? *She knit a sweater holding two yarns together using 3639 yards (plenty of yardage for a blitz!),  *She used 4 pigskin exclusive products, and  *She used 3 additional proshop sponsor products. Well done!   Wishing you all a happy holiday season!   Contest, News & Notes   On a Happy Note
  • Laura texted me a photo of she and her friend Arielle wearing socks I knit them!
  • Dad, Dan and I went to the Irish pub for Dan's birthday
  • Dad's knee replacement surgery went really well.
  • Seeing Hattie in Shrek and spending the afternoon with Riley.
  • Sue and Chelsea from Legacy Fiber Artz sent me their 4 Sundays Advent- micro sock sets
  • Our friend Merry came to visit and brought homemade food for Dad. She also brought me a beautiful bracelet whose beads are made with Mom's funeral flowers in Wizard of Oz colors.
  • Riley and Milie came down this weekend. We did lots of knitting, crochet and a bit of latch hook. Check out the 13th and 14th vlogmas videos for more.
  Quote of the Week "Welcome winter. Your late dawns and chilled breath make me lazy, but I love you nonetheless." —Terri Guillemets   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 310: Of Goose & Turkey30 nov. 202500:58:43
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 310 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
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Dan's Birthday Hat
  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood. $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed Site
  • Yarn: Yarnbaker DK ((75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Burnt Indigo Colorway (dusty navy blue with black
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I used 54g of yarn and have 52g left.
  • It was living in my Stitched by Jessalu Rhinebeck bag which is, for now, my hat bag.
  Game Day Party Socks
  • Yarn: Mandi's Makings SW Merino Fingering Weight Yarn in the Pigskin '25 Exclusive Game Day Party Colorway. Green mini skein for heels/toes from Goosey Fibers (Wizard of Oz Advent Calendar yarn)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Pigskin '25 Exclusive- 60 points
  • 62g used
  Aila's Goose Bag
  • Pattern: None. Using this Ravelry Project Page as a guide
  • Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Aran colorway (~400g skein)
  • Hooks: G (4.0 mm) & H (5.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Started at the bottom with smaller hook and holding yarn double. ch31 work both sides of that to create the base. increased up to 62 stitches. larger hook. SC around for sides.
  • 7 sts for handle (smaller hook) with the goose head at end of handle which is attached to other side of the bag. Then I added feet at the bottom.
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Kris' Christmas Socks
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners in the Fairy Lights colorway 
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I knit pair of socks out of this same colorway for Mom in 2019- Ravelry Project Page here. That was my 100th pair of OMG Heel socks.
  • Progress: I am almost to the toe of sock 1.
  Over the Rainbow Socks
  • Yarn: Cashmere & Coconuts MCN Sock yarn in the Somewhere Over the Rainbow 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:
  • Yarn was gift from Kris on Mom's 1st heavenly birthday. I decided these will be for Hattie (my niece who is Mom's birthday twin).
  • Progress: I'm on the leg of sock 2.
  Zoe Hat
  • Pattern: Zoe Hat by Alexandra Davidoff- $6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Berrocco Vintage in a teal color
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Laura picked out this yarn at Knitty City in NY
  • Progress: I am still on the ribbing.
  Elsa
  • Pattern: Queen Elsa Amigurumi by Chiara Cremon (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava (worsted weight acrylic yarn)
  • Hook: D (3.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: just barely started the legs.
  From the Armchair   Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah. Amazon Affiliate Link. Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld. 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 '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Count On It Challenge hosted by Twice Sheared Sheep, Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November). Details in this Ravelry thread.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher Mini Maker's Merry Month See details in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Stay tuned for more about our Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers
  Commentator Update (links in this section go to Ravelry) Like most of the knitting internet, our November huddle has had lots of chatter about the game of wool, including tips for how to watch it if you are in the US!  This has spawned lots of conversations about:
  • how long it really takes to knit something, 
  • how hard on your body it can be to knit for long periods of time, and
  •  whether crafting with time pressure is a fun challenge or just robs the joy out of our hobby. 
Several pigskin partiers have shared their experiences with times crafting challenges, such as the sheep to sweater challenges, sock madness, and the super sock world challenge.    In other news, players are posting some amazing projects in the end zone dance thread!  A few players have completed some really intricate projects lately.  For example,   What a talented group of players we have!    Contest, News & Notes Check out this Gay Sheep Fashion Show article that I heard about on the 7 podcast from the Washington Post   Life in Focus   25 in 2025
  1. Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March, May, Sept) - done
  2. Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year
  3. Buy new ski boots- done
  4. Go camping (scheduled for June)- done
  5. Kayak 2-5 times (Saco- 2 days)- done
  6. Do at least 5 walks with others- done
  7. Take 2-5 yoga classes- will not complete
  8. Do at least 30 lessons in Mondly- will still try
  9. Spend a day at Raffa Life-  done
  10. Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts)- I've fallen off.
  11. Read all of Simple Abundance- gave up. Got too religious for me.
  12. Read at least 60 books- - 58 books as 11/29
  13. Get at least 2 massages at Oasis- done
  14. See 2-5 movies in the theater- done
  15. Knit 2-5 garments for me- done
  16. Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket- not happening this year.
  17. Crochet at least 5 toys- done
  18. Use my spinning wheel at least once a month- all but May & June! Calling this a win
  19. Have a crafty day with Emelie- done
  20. Knit a slouchy hat for myself-  not yet but it could still happen.
  21. Try out 3 new to me podcasts- done
  22. Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara- its on the calendar
  23. Buy a firebox and put important papers inside- working with Dan on finding the right one.
  24. Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation- not done yet
  25. Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes- done
  Ask Me Anything   Tune in to hear my answer to this question: Hi, I'm a newer listener to your podcast and really enjoy it.  But just how fast do you knit? It seems you have a job (in addition to the podcast), have time to be in a musical, family,,...yet your projects seem to fly off the needles.  How do you get it all done?  Are you knitting constantly?? Slow at knitting, Cathleen   On a Happy Note
  • My cousin Jenny hosted a girls/cousins game night. We had a lot of fun!
  • Dad, Jeff, Riley, Millie & I started decorating at Dad's and then had a big Wicked (part 1) watch party in the evening. Megg, Eme, Ois, Hattie, Kris, Aila, Riley, Millie, Kara and Emelie all came. Only 3 of them had seen it before.
  • Laura's visit- our craft fair tradition, lots of laughter with Megg and some great second-hand finds to add to my winter wardrobe
  • Seeing Cabaret with Megg and Terri
  • A surprise 4 Sundays advent box delivery from Legacy Fiber Artz- thanks Sue & Chelsea!!
  • Fiber Club at my local library
  • Thanksgiving with the family! 
  • My cousin Joanie gifted Dad, Jeff and me each an ornament with flowers from mom's funeral made into beads and put together with crystals into a beautiful snowflake ornament
  • Wicked For Good!
  Quote of the Week "Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse." — Henry Van Dyke   ------ Contact Information:  
Episode 309: Hats & Stockings15 nov. 202500:52:49
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 309 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works & Imagined Landscapes   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Gary's LeHigh Hat
  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood. $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed Site
  • Yarn: Cesium Yarn Strong DK ( 75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the One More Sleep Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Project Notes & Mods: did not increase after ribbing as called for. Knit 7 inches before working decreases. I used 52g of yarn and have 56g remaining so I can make another hat with this yarn.
  Gary's Delaware Hat
  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood. $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed Site
  • Yarn: Robin's Promise Yarn Co, Two Birds in the Hand (DK 4ply 100% SW Merino) in the White-Tailed Robin Feather Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the Yarn- purchased Rhinebeck Weekend at CAKEpalooza. Its a mostly solid royal blue. 
  • This project is living in my new Stitched by Jessalu Rhinebeck 2025 bag. I think this will be my fall/winter hat project and I'll just keep the needles in here and keep replacing the yarn.
  Yarn Cozy Lite
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Yarn (75% SW Merino 25% Nylon) in the Highlighter Guava colorway
  • Pattern: Yarn Cozy Lite by Knitty Natty- $6 pattern available on Ravelry
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Natalie's video support for the stretchy i-cord bind off is great.
  Vivienne'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 (4.0 mm)
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit.
  • I found 4oz of Ironwood Hill Farm Roving- Finnsheep combed top that I purchased in April 2021. Unfortunately I can't find more of this on Cece's Wool site or Ironwood's etsy shop, but I think it will give me the idea for a tan/brown color plied with the colorful yarn, so I'll spin just enough to make a sample yarn-- but this Finn is spinning like a dream. Where could I get more? Send suggestions my way
  Spectrum Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Spectrum 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- skinny stripes of color with 1 round of black between. Colors include Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, 3 shades of Blue, Pink + Purple.
  • Progress: I've passed the heel on the first sock
  Game Day Party Socks
  • Yarn: Mandi's Makings SW Merino Fingering Weight Yarn in the Pigskin '25 Exclusive Game Day Party Colorway. Green mini skein for heel from Goosey Fibers (Wizard of Oz Advent Calendar yarn)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Pigskin '25 Exclusive- 60 points
  • Progress: First sock done. Onto the leg of the second sock.
  • Hattie knit on them at her uncle's birthday party.
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Sleeve progress- knit a few more sets of decreases on the first sleeve. Still have a second sleeve to go and the whole hood. Focusing a bit more on Christmas gifts coming up so this one will be taking a backseat.
  Brainstorming
  • Queen Elsa Amigurumi by Chiara Cremon. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. You can find lots of cute character patterns on her Instagram account.
  • Zach- maybe something spiderman
  From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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 During Gabriella & Zachary's sleepover we pained and made plastic ornaments with spiraled pipe cleaners inside. So cute and easy!   Knitting in Passing A cute preteen girl came over when I was crocheting on the train to ask what kind of hook I was using and then asked if I was making a stocking for Christmas. I asked if she crocheted. She said yes but didn't offer more. When she went back to the grown up she was with, they gave her a big high five. So cute. Then the gentleman across from me who saw me counting rows then asked what happened if I lose count. Told him I could read the stitches. He congratulated me onto who new addition to our family.   In My Travels I shared highlights from a recent trip to New York City.
  • I spent a wonderful morning at the MET
    • Aida Silvestri- artist from Eritrea who had a triptych of pieces on display.
      • Her work is motivated by social concern, but it also explores the camera's ability to connect people to a place. In these portraits of immigrant women, the artist strategically blurs her subjects' faces. This gesture, born of a need for protective anonymity, seems to evoke a greater enigma of the self. Mapping the course of migration to London are lines of thread stitched into the surfaces of the print- permanent, identity-altering interventions. Silvestri regards her series as a documentary project dedicated to those travelers who never reached their destination.
    • Two embroidery samplers from Bostonian women from the late 1700s that were just beautiful.
  • We visited the Chelsea Flea- I got a cool pair of earrings
  • We got cookies from Levain Bakery
  • We made a quick trip to Knitty City and Laura picked out yarn for a hat
  • Musical- Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York
  • We also saw Blue Moon at the movies. Tells the story of Lorenz Hart's struggles with alcoholism and mental health as he tries to save face during the opening of "Oklahoma!".
  KAL News   Pigskin Party '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 1 (October): Love in Stitches with Knitty Natty- Winner Announced
    • julicorn.makes made a Maxine Hot Water Bottle Cozy by Laura Penrose (fair isle snowflakes)- Ravelry Project Page
    • MrsZoom made Knitty Natty's Yarn Cozy Lite with the new football exclusive pattern in Colts colors- Ravelry Project Page
    • Random number generator chose yesthatshelby as our winner!
  • Pink Challenge is over- details in this Ravelry Thread. Winner Announced!
    • CinderGA made Defying Gravity Socks by Lisa Ross- Paper Daisy Creations- Ravelry page
    • Wizabef knit the Elinor Mittens by Irene Nielson- Ravelry Project Page
    • Random number generator picked Alice Ortega who knit the Barn Swallow Socks by Cheryl Toy- Ravelry Project Page
  • Count On It Challenge hosted by Twice Sheared Sheep, Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November). Details in this Ravelry thread.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher  Details announced. See details in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Stay tuned for more about our Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers
  • Charity Challenge (runs through Thanksgiving)- details in this Ravelry Thread (36 of you have already asked for the address to mail in items! THANK YOU). Please email me to request the address.
  Commentator Update (links in this section go to Ravelry)   Quarter 2 is in full swing and, when I looked today, 9 players had already submitted for points for the Q2 challenge!  Are you still thinking of what you can make that is at least 60 rows, using a row counter?  Here are some ideas!
  • Hats! Many of our early Q2 finishers completed hats. 
    • Neferetri, Hollyelyse and Janknitdun completed beautiful cabled hats...I bet the row counter came in handy for those projects!
    • Kimbuktu7 completed a lovely colorwork hat
    • Adrie9 completed a lovely two colored musselburgh hat 
  • Neckwear is also a popular choice among our early Q2 finishers
There's still plenty of time for you to get your projects in for Q2. These finishers have definitely demonstrated that there are plenty of patterns with at least 60 rows that work up in a flash!   PepperRN added in Pigskin Party Tips Thread on Ravelry If you are budgeting but still want to support sponsors buy something re usable. Stitch markers can be used in 1 project and then when finished in the next. I like knitting hats for charity so I bought a hat pattern from a sponsor. I put that pattern with a sponsor bag and sponsor stitch markers and can knit it over and over during the PSP.   On a Happy Note
  • New York City! I took the train this time which was a great option. Laura and I had dinner with two of her pilates clients.
  • We all enjoyed Gabriella and Zachary's first sleepover. We watched the KPOP Demon Hunters movie and after going to bed early and reading the Hot Air Balloon book, wehad fun hunting for the orange eyed monster! Dan made the kids pancakes and we'll put their photos on the collage wall in the guest room. Gabriella asked for a unicorn and a ghost Spiderman. Zach wanted Spiderman.
  • I received a really nice message from my cousin Gayle who was visiting her friend in NH and let me know that Mom's shawl that she chose was keeping her warm. Love you Gayle!
  • My childhood friend Maribeth has shared a few photos of things her family has found when cleaning out her parents' attic- costumes and things my mom made. It was sweet of her to send me those photos so we could reminisce.
  • I finally got to join Beth's Karaoke Night Zoom (part of the Love in Stitches Membership).
  • Dad is recovering from a back injury but doing better.
  • We successfully moved my grandmother into the Memory Care side of the independent living home she's lived at for 5 years. Hope this will be a good fit for her.
  • I got a massage this week!
  Quote of the Week   "In November, the earth is growing quiet. It is making its bed, a winter bed for flowers and small creatures. The bed is white and silent, and much life can hide beneath its blankets."   ― Cynthia Rylant, In November  ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 308: Rhinebeck Recap31 oct. 202501:03:38
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 308 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
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Suburban Stitcher, The Wandering Purl & agirlandherwool   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Born to Be Mild Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Born to Be Mild Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Granny Square Chicken
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Palm Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Granny Square Chicken by Sweet Softies- $3.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry.
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • Yarn- self striping with cream, rust, peach, dusty pink, dusty orange. I didn't change color between rounds- I just let the self striping yarn do its thing. I used an organza bag to put the polyfill in.
  • Put the tortoise shell glasses I bought at Another Yarn on her but they're a little big.
  Essex Beanie
  • Pattern: Essex Beanie by Justine Walley (AlyseCrochet). $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Berroco Ultra Wool in colorway 3361 Kale (used 68g/ 148 yards for the hat, before the pom pom)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Sheri's Christmas Socks
  • Yarn: Gusto Wool Echos in Colorway 1515
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I cast this on to bring to Rhinebeck on my Lemonwood Mini Minder (I have this Art Deco one) so I could walk and knit.
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Body was done and seamed before I left for Rhinebeck but I had to rip back the sleeve twice because I mis-read the instructions. Finally on track now.
  Yarn Cozy Lite
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Yarn (75% SW Merino 25% Nylon) in the Highlighter Guava colorway
  • Pattern: Yarn Cozy Lite by Knitty Natty- $6 pattern available on Ravelry
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Progress: I have about 1 inch of knitting left.
  Game Day Party Socks
  • Yarn: Mandi's Makings SW Merino Fingering Weight Yarn in the Pigskin '25 Exclusive Game Day Party Colorway. Green mini skein for heel from Goosey Fibers (Wizard of Oz Advent Calendar yarn)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin
  • Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit. Emily made a 2-ply where
  Gary's LeHigh Hat
  • Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood. $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed Site
  • Yarn: Cesium Yarn Strong DK ( 75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the One More Sleep Colorway
  • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  From the Armchair     Note: Some links are 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 Rhinebeck 2025   Friday Highlights:
  • Seeing Kacey of Kacey Knits in person at Indie Untangled
  • Seeing Maggie of Yarnaceous Fibers, Emily of Fan Girl Fibers & Jamie of Pacific Knit Co
  • Seeing Christy of Yarn Cafe Creations (she signed up as a Snack Shack Sponsor and donated a skein of yarn)- she also had these cool trinket dishes. I bought 3 for gifts! Love them.
  • Of Dust and Dew had beautiful pottery. I waited too long and didn't get the chicken vase I had my heart set on.
  • It was my first time at A Woolen Affair.
  • They had a beautiful art installation called Tributary- "A collective art installation as a celebration of community, creativity and collective power."
  Saturday & Sunday Highlights:
  • Saturday- we met up with our friend Lauren (lbeth21) and we spent the day together. Lauren kindly gifted me two bars of her homemade soap. Check out her Instagram- Happy Cat Suds (website coming soon)
  • One our first stops was to see Jess and Roger of Stitched by Jessalu. It was an emotional visit and we didn't get a photo together. Across the barn, we saw Beth (mdquilter) along with Pigskin Sponsor Kim Shaffir.
  • 2p Meet-up: Thank you to everyone who came out.
  • Sunday morning we started with breakfast at a diner before heading to the fairgrounds. We made it over to see Amy of Ross Farm.
  • I ran into Hope again and she gifted me a beautiful sock set from her yarn store-Hope Made Yarn Co.
  • Sunday we left around 3/3:30p drove through Saugerties to get dinner so we popped into The Perfect Blend yarn store before we ate.
  KAL News   Pigskin Party '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 1 (October): Love in Stitches with Knitty Natty is hosting a Cozy Up Challenge. Check out the details in this Ravelry Thread. Remember, projects need to be finished by 10/31 but you can enter for points until 11/5/25.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November)- Twice Sheared Sheep is hosting the Count On It Challenge. Details in this Ravelry thread.
  • Charity Challenge (runs through Thanksgiving)- details in this Ravelry Thread (21 of you have already asked for the address to mail in items! THANK YOU). Please email me to request the address.
  • Pink Challenge (runs through 10/31)- details in this Ravelry Thread.
  Commentator Update There's been a lot of activity in the huddle thread recently. Players have been discussing a range of interesting topics such as: * strategy for shopping at fiber festivals, which was partially inspired by Rhinebeck but certainly applies to any festival * suggestions for patterns to use up mini-skeins  * recommendations for cruises * board game recommendations * how to balance manicures with crafting time * ideas for handmade gifts for someone going into memory care * and what to do when you've simply lost interest in a project   As usual, if you can't keep up--just jump in!     I also wandered over to the endzone dance thread today. Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of pink projects, cozies, and pink cozies! But players have also recently finished a few Halloween themed projects Links below go to Ravelry: * Karen805 finished a Spiders in the House MKAL Shawl that is super cool! It even includes a colorwork spider motif! *Chiamira finished a Halloween Party Cowl that is all over colorwork and includes cats dressed up like pumpkins! * Cbass and Adrie9 finished Gnettle and Gnumpkin gnomes (from sponsor Imagined Landscapes) * and following up on a previous report, Sandima finished the Wednesday costume for her porch goose...so cute!   I am always amazed by the huge variety of projects that pigskin partiers complete!  It is so fun to see what everyone likes to create!   Events   Life in Focus I shared a bit about my recent fibromyalgia pain flare.   On a Happy Note
  • 300 Paintings at ART
  • Bethany of the Wandering Purl sent me 2 of her Pigskin exclusive bags with notions pouches!
  • Dad and I went to my nephew Garret's hockey game together.
  • The foliage is gorgeous this year.
  • I signed up for Lauren (agirlandherwool) self striping club and got my first skein! Its great!
  • Love is Blind Season 9- it was a wild and crazy season. I enjoy chatting about it with my friend Laura and am thrilled that the reunion will air while I'll be in NYC with her.
  • So many deer in the yard in the last week and even a buck who has made a few appearances.
  • We had fun at a friends' movie night watching Young Frankenstein.
  Quote of the Week   "When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it--always."   ― Mahatma Gandhi   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 307: Yarn Crawls + Side Quests15 oct. 202500:57:38
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 307 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Katie's Randomness, Heart & Squirrel & Paper Daisy Creations   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Sweetly Striped Hat
  • Pattern: Sweetly Striped Hat by Chit Chat Knits. $4.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Berroco Vintage in colorway 5185 Tide Pool
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Snack Shack Sponsor- Chit Chat Knits- 20 points
  • Project Bag & Notions Pouch- Pro Shop Sponsor The Huckleberry Girl- 40 pts each= 80 points
  • Check out this video on how to do a 1x1 left & right cross without a cable needle from my YouTube Channel
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress:  I finished the front & back and seamed up shoulders and under arms. I cast on sleeve 1 for ride home from PA and was hoping to finish for Rhinebeck but there simply isn't time.
  Born to Be Mild Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Born to Be Mild 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 to the toe on sock #2.
  • About the yarn: tan base with browns and robin's egg. It reminds me of a robin's nest.
  Granny Square Chicken
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Palm Springs Colorway
  • Pattern: Granny Square Chicken by Sweet Softies- $3.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry.
  • Hook: G (4.0 mm)
  • Progress & Plans: I didn't change color between rounds- I just let the self striping yarn do its thing. almost done last round on the second square then I need to seam it together. I am planning to use some pantyhose with stuffing inside.
  Yarn Cozy Lite
  • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Yarn (75% SW Merino 25% Nylon) in the Highlighter Guava colorway
  • Pattern: Yarn Cozy Lite by Knitty Natty- $6 pattern available on Ravelry
  • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
  • Cast on to be ready for our Zoom cast on party on 10/2! Thanks to Natalie for coming to hang out. Such a fun kick off to this month's event.
  • If you'd like the Pigskin Cozy version- it is included in this pattern for free through 10/31/25. Get 10% off any of Natalie's patterns through February 9th, 2026 with the code "PIGSKINPARTY".
Brainstorming  
  • A goose bag for Aila. I may use the notes from this Ravelry Project Page. Or there's a pattern available for $4 on Ravelry & another for $5.48 on Etsy.
  • A Christmas Stocking for my cousin Chris's daughter.
  From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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   Want to see more about this fun & yarny filled weekend? Our 2025 MA Yarn Crawls + Side Quests Part 1 video is available on YouTube (Part 2 coming after Rhinebeck).   Our trip to Philadelphia   KAL News   Pigskin Party '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November)- Twice Sheared Sheep. Row Counter Challenge- details in this Ravelry Thread.
  • Commentator Report from Mary- links below all go to Ravelry
Recently I've been spending time in the Mark it Monday thread.  If you are interested in a thread where the topic of conversation is almost exclusively about the crafting, this is a great thread for you!  It also moves a bit slower than the main huddle thread, so a little easier to keep up.  I find perusing this thread to be great for inspiration. It brings a smile to my face to see other players' projects coming to life. This week, I realized that player Scitchr is making 5 adorable animals. She is making them all Buffalo Bills clothing! So far, she has made an otter, a woodland duck, a hedgehog, and a woodland badger!  You must check them out...they are so adorable. Plus, she plans on making them Halloween costumes! Speaking of Halloween costumes, Sandima made a Wednesday (from Addams' Family) costume for her porch goose: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/sandima/goostavo-porch-goose-sweater   So cute!   In other news...players are busy with the three challenges that are going on right now: * 25 players have already submitted for points for pink challenge, with 5 players already submitting 2 entries!   * over 50 players have submitted for points for the Q1 challenge, with over 15 of them already submitting 2 entries! * 2 people have already submitted for points for the charity challenge!   Don't forget you still have plenty of time to participate in these challenges!   Events   On a Happy Note
  • Apple picking & yarn crawling with Riley and Aila
  • Megg and I went to see Hamilton in Boston (my second time seeing the show)
  • We celebrated my dad's birthday with a bonfire
  • Trunk show at my LYS
  • I had a blast chatting with Natalie in an interview for the Love in Stitches Membership
  • Haymakers for Hope- Belles of the Brawl. My cousin Kirstin raised $20,363.23 for cancer research that will benefit MGH's research into how non-small cell lung cancer transforms into small-cell. Overall the event raised over $465k!
    • Jewelry
  • 4 person puzzle time with Christine & Seamus
  • Mini Grilled cheese & creamy tomato soup appetizer at Gary's wedding; it was so delightful!
  • Getting new headphones after my right ear bud was broken for a good month.
  • Getting a text from my SIL with photos of my niece and nephew on their way to their first movie with their handmade toys in hand.
  Quote of the Week   "Leaves descending to the ground, Orange, magenta, green & brown The cool crisp breezes in the air, Autumn season must be here" -Charmaine J. Forde    ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:
Episode 306: Fall Vibes30 sept. 202501:00:10
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 306 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
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Fibernymph Dye Works & AdoreKnit   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Mayor of Halloween Town Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Mayor of Halloween Town 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   Sweetly Striped Hat
  • Pattern: Sweetly Striped Hat by Chit Chat Knits. $4.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Berroco Vintage in colorway 5185 Tide Pool
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Snack Shack Sponsor- Chit Chat Knits- 20 points
  • Project Bag & Notions Pouch- Pro Shop Sponsor The Huckleberry Girl- 40 pts each= 80 points
  • Check out this video on how to do a 1x1 left & right cross without a cable needle from my YouTube Channel
  • Progress: I need one more repeat & will begin crown decreases
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: 18 purl ridges done; blocking to see if I have enough of the body knit or if I want to add more length.
  Born to Be Mild Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Born to Be Mild 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- Part of the way through the cuff on sock #2.
  • About the yarn: tan base with browns and robin's egg. It reminds me of a robin's nest.
  Game Day Party Socks
  • Yarn: Mandi's Makings SW Merino Fingering Weight Yarn in the Pigskin '25 Exclusive Game Day Party Colorway. Green mini skein for heel from Goosey Fibers (Wizard of Oz Advent Calendar yarn)
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Yarn: Pigskin '25 Exclusive- 60 points
  • Progress: just beyond the heel on the first sock
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL; you do not have to use this pattern. Any scrappy crochet blanket counts.
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry. The basic idea is that you use 1 main color for Rounds 1 & 3 (center and outer square), and then 4 separate colors for the 4 sides of the middle square)
  • Round 1 & Round 3 done using same colors (2 sock yarns held together)- totals about 22g (11g of each colorway)
  • Contrast Colors: total weight of yarns used (reminder- yarns are held double so I only need half the weight listed for each mini). CC 1 & 2: 2g needed. CC 3 & 4: 4g needed
  • Progress: 9 so far - 2 new ones this month
  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: ~3/4 way through first bump. 1st bobbin full and the second is well underway
  Brainstorming
  • Check out these designs by our Pigskin Sponsors that call for Super Bulky Yarn- Ravelry Link
  • I may try the Fabled Hat pattern by Maggie of Yarnaceous Fibers-$6 Ravelry pattern or the Copper Foxes Super Bulky cowl by Kacey Knits, a $7 Ravelry Pattern
  • Tiny scarf like the Sophie Scarf (Ravelry Pattern) but I likely won't use a pattern since many of my shawls that are knit side to side start off similarly.
  • Christmas gifts- toys for the littlest of the nieces/nephews. More to come on the next episode. 
  • The Love in Stitches Membership is working on colorwork sweaters and cozies.
  From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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   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
  • Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video.
  • Update: I took this blanket camping in Vermont, washed it when it came home and many of the centers burst open. So frustrating. I thought the double magic circle was the key but no, perhaps not. I will do a chain/slip stitch beginning moving forward.
  In My Travels I shared a bit about our recent trip to Vermont.   KAL News   Pigskin Party '25   Updates In This Episode
  • Our first Official Sponsor of the Quarter is Love in Stitches with Knitty Natty is hosting a Cozy Up Challenge! Check out all of the details in this Ravelry Post. Join Knitty Natty & me for a special zoom hangout Thursday 10/2 at 8p Eastern. Cast on, chat, learn about some of Natalie's cool cozy patterns and have some fun. Use code "PIGSKINPARTY" to save 10% on Natalie's cozy patterns. Details in the Start Here Thread.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November)- Twice Sheared Sheep
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers
  • The Pink Challenge also kicks off 10/1/25. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry Thread & don't forget to make an appointment if you're due for a mammogram or other screening.
  • The Charity Challenge is also ready- check out the details in this Ravelry Thread.
  Events   Ask Me Anything  
  • Tune in to hear answers MikkaelaB asked about the Pigskin Party. 
  • Check out the Ask Me Anything Thread in Ravelry to ask a question and hear my answer on an upcoming episode.
  On a Happy Note
  • Dinner in Plymouth with my Mom's cousins
  • Adult Ballet Class
  • Vermont Trip
  • Seeing the Mrs. Doubtfire musical
  • Finding out my niece Hattie was cast as Gretl in a local production of The Sound of Music
  • Going to the movies! Laura & I saw The Long Walk, based on a 1979 Stephen King novel
  • Participating in a Clothing Swap & doing second-hand shopping with friends.
  • Raffa Life in Cranston, RI- saunas, steam rooms & cold plunge
  Quote of the Week "With every choice, you create the life you'll live; with every decision you design it." Mollie Marti   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 305: Pigskin '2515 sept. 202500:56:38
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 305 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
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Skein & Co and Handmade Hygge   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Tie Dye Day Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes base in the Tie Dye Day Colorway
  • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 262.3 meters for Stash Dash
  Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket
  • Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square by Apinya Roszko
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in colorway Mint & Loops and Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01808
  • Center square (in darker green)- 4g. Three rounds on outside of clover (in mint)- 12g
  • Size:  6 inch square.
  • 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.
  • 1186.1 meters for Stash Dash
  10,426.8 meters for Stash Dash this year.   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.
  • 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: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors (orange, yellow, peach, greens & aquas .
  • 344.2 yards/ 86 grams used.
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Sweetly Striped Hat
  • Pattern: Sweetly Striped Hat by Chit Chat Knits. $4.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Yarn: Berroco Vintage in colorway 5185 Tide Pool
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Pattern: Snack Shack Sponsor- Chit Chat Knits- 20 points
  • Project Bag & Notions Pouch- Pro Shop Sponsor The Huckleberry Girl- 40 pts each= 80 points
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: 5 purl ridges done
  Mayor of Halloween Town Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Mayor of Halloween Town 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 9/4 for Pigskin Party
  • Project bag: Pro Shop Sponsor Wandering Purl (40 pts)
  • Yarn: Pro Shop Sponsor Woolens & Nosh (40 pts)
  • About the yarn: Light gray- larger stripes with smaller stripes of dark gray, white and orange
  Born to Be Mild Socks
  • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Born to Be Mild 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- just into the leg of the first sock.
  • About the yarn: tan base with browns and robin's egg. It reminds me of a robin's nest.
  From the Armchair     Lily King talking on Books, Beach & Beyond (2025)-  on love
  • "Love is really the most important thing to us and possibly the thing, the only thing that is going to save us from our other impulses. I am extremely concerned about the state of mind of this country and what we are allowing and what we have voted in and what we are experiencing and, in in some ways, our lack of resistance to it, and our our silence and our complicity. And it all really comes down to love. And if we lose that ability, I don't think AI is going to help us with love, I don't think Instagram is going to help us with love. I feel like all of our habits that are increasing and increasing are pulling us apart even giving us the illusion that its not, but we are, and we have to remember what it is like to love people. In all of those forms. It is the thing that makes us human. And we have to stay human." Lily King
  A few of my other favorite quotes from Writers & Lovers "When my mother died, I sort of felt her inside me sometimes,' I say. 'Like I'd swallowed her.' He laughs. 'Swallowed her.' 'I still have moments when I feel that, when it feels like she's inside me, and there's no difference between us or that the difference doesn't matter." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   "I can tell he lost someone close somehow. You can feel that in people, an openness, or maybe it's an opening that you're talking into. With other people, people who haven't been through something like that, you feel the solid wall. Your words go scattershot off of it." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   "When I was visiting her a few years ago she hugged me and said, 'Tomorrow after you leave I will stand here at this window and remember that yesterday you were right here with me.' And now she's dead and I have that feeling all the time, no matter where I stand." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   "I look into my eyes, but they aren't really mine, not the eyes I used to have. They're the eyes of someone very tired and very sad, and once I see them I feel even sadder and then I see that sadness, that compassion, for the sadness in my eyes, and I see the water rising in them. I'm both the sad person and the person wanting to comfort the sad person. And then I feel sad for that person who has so much compassion because she's clearly been through the same thing, too. And the cycle keeps repeating. It's like when you go into a dressing room with a three-paneled mirror and you line them up just right to see the long narrowing hallway of yourselves diminishing into infinity. It feels like that, like I'm sad for an infinite number of my selves." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   Note: Some links are 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 '25
  • Event Dates: KAL Dates- Thursday September 4, 2025- Monday February 9, 2026
  • 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.
  • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
  • Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 1 (October): Love in Stitches with Knitty Natty is hosting a Cozy Up Challenge. The challenge doesn't start until 10/1 but you can start planning now. Check out the details in this Ravelry Thread. Join Knitty Natty & me for a special zoom hangout Thursday 10/2 at 8p Eastern. Details will be shared in the Start Here Thread.
  • Check out this Ravelry Thread with helpful tips for the event, crowd sourced from our incredible players.
  Updates In This Episode
  • Thanks to Mary for her Commentator report. She talked specifically about these 2 large projects that have already been finished. 904Stephanie (my teammate!) has already finished a blanket- Ravelry photo & cmfamigli has already finished a pullover- check out her Ravelry Project
  • Thanks to Sarah for starting a Pigskin Tips Ravelry Thread!
  • Add your Super Bowl Prediction- details in this Ravelry Thread
  • Our first Official Sponsor of the Quarter is Love in Stitches! Check out all of the details in this Ravelry Post. Join Knitty Natty & me for a special zoom hangout Thursday 10/2 at 8p Eastern. Cast on, chat, learn about some of Natalie's cool cozy patterns and have some fun.
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November)- Twice Sheared Sheep
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher
  • Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers
  Events   Ask Me Anything Tune in to hear my answer to kjkrochet's question: How did you come up with the concept for Pigskin Party?   On a Happy Note
  • Saturday of Labor Day weekend- Clear the Needles Event w/ Love in Stitches group
  • 2 fun pool days over Labor Day Weekend complete with cornhole tournament 
    • I gifted my friend Megg her "I'll bring the dance moves" hat to go with my "I'll bring the alcohol" hat since my dad always teases her for dancing constantly.
  • Dinner with Melissa of Maple Roots Creative
  • Dinner with friends including my dance teacher from middle/high school
  • Pigskin Paty Kick Off Weekend was so much fun!
  • Seeing Passengers at American Repertory Theater
  Quote of the Week "It's a particular kind of pleasure, of intimacy, loving a book with someone." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 304: Flock31 août 202501:02:04
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 304 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
  • 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. Check out Stitched by Jessalu bags and so much more at the Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival September 20 & 21 in Greenwich, New York. & Love in Stitches   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   The Muses Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the colorway The Muses
  • 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- 3 stripes in pink, green and purple. In between each color, there are thin stripes of white, gray, white. Cuff, heel & toe all knit in gray contrast mini
  • Total for Stash Dash- 263.2 meters
  On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Same as it Ever Was Hat
  • Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash (no ball band); maybe MCN base
  • Needles: US 2
  • Pattern: Same as it Ever Was by Sarah Jordan $6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: all different shades of gray with blips of a mustardy/rust and turquoise
  Traveler Sweater
  • Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website)
  • Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon)
  • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I'm in a few inches into the body
  Tie Dye Day Socks
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes base in the Tie Dye Day 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: on the heel of sock #2
  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.
  • 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: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors (orange, yellow, peach, greens & aquas .
  • Jenna of 716 also sent me the mini skein set which is part of her SPP Exclusives.
  • Progress: on the heel of sock #2
  Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket  
  • Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square by Apinya Roszko
  • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
  • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in colorway Mint & Loops and Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01808
  • 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: Nearly done with 6 of 7 rows. 6 squares left. Should be finished Labor Day weekend.
  From the Armchair  
  • stitchintime82-Dani recommended: Gmorning, gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me and You by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Amazon Affiliate Link.
I finished:   Note: Some links are 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 2 ready to wear items we saw in Seattle, a crochet dress & a granny square style tank.
  • I visited 8 local yarn stores to creat Social Media videos for Cape & South Shore Yarn haul which you'll see on my Instagram feed soon.
  In My Travels Tune in to hear a bit about Flock Fiber Festival. Check out my Vlog video for much more.    KAL News   This Episode   Events   Life in Focus   Tune in for an update on my 25 in 2025 list.   On a Happy Note
  • I hit 200 workouts at my gym this summer
  • Dinner at Yvonne's before seeing The Wiz
  • Drinks with Dan's cousins
  • Quality time with Laura in Seattle
  • I managed NOT to contract Covid
  • Celebrating my grandmother's 91st birthday. I watercolored a birthday card for her.
  • Cool mornings and evenings. I wore wool socks during the day last week and it was kind of fun!
  • Back to school photos on Facebook! Thanks to everyone who shares them (or texts me with them).
  • I bought these huge denim with painted flower overalls in Seattle and I love them SO MUCH.
  • Whatsapp texts from my friend Marta in Barcelona.
  Quote of the Week "I can tell he lost someone close somehow. You can feel that in people, an openness, or maybe it's an opening that you're talking into. With other people, people who haven't been through something like that, you feel the solid wall. Your words go scattershot off of it." ― Lily King, Writers & Lovers   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 303: Ask Me Anything Returns!15 août 202501:14:05
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 303 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
  • In my Travels
  • KAL News
  • Ask Me Anything
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Gabriella's Unicorn
  • Pattern: Shy Little Unicorn by Ana Paula Rimoli
  • Hook: C (2.75 mm)
  • Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver (white), Knit Picks Brava Worsted (cotton candy & various solids)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Total for Stash Dash: 116 meters
  Sum-Sum-Summertime socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the colorway Sum-Sum-Summertime
  • 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- thinner stripes- 2 colors of aqua, lime green, pink and an orange/peachy yellow. CC mini in lime
  • Total for Stash Dash: 293.3 meters
  Stash Dash Total for this episode: 8,715.2 meters   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 full and the second is started
  • I've now spun in July and August so I've only missed 2 months so far this year.
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL. Ends December 21st (but you don't have to finish. 2 prize drawings will be done).
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.
    From the Armchair   Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister. Amazon Affiliate Link. My Friends by Fredrik Backman. 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 a story about a little girl in the nail salon who asked her mom if they could come talk to me because she wants to learn to knit.   In My Travels Travel packing tips
  • Packing cubes- here's an Amazon affiliate link to the set I purchased 6 years ago and still love!
  • I always pack some clothes pins/ metal or wood that I use for snacks/drink mix pouches and/or to keep curtains closed in hotel.
  • I have a standard packing list in Evernote that I customize for each trip. It saves so much time and frustration.
  • Pack a travel power strip- to keep all of those chraging cords in one place (also less likely to leave one behind)
  • Knitting project approach
    • At least 2 socks/stockinette hats for waiting, sitting etc.
    • A project that occupies my brain and makes a long flight go by easier.
  • Queue the audiobooks & download podcasts
  KAL News  
  • Splash Pad Final Winners were announced!
  Pigskin Party '25 Sponsor Sign Up is Open- click here for details Key Dates:
  • Registration starting Thursday August 20, 2025
  • KAL Starts- Thursday September 4, 2025
  • KAL Ends- Monday February 9, 2026
  • Form Teams- starting Monday August 25, 2025
  • Virtual Kick Off- Friday September 5 & Saturday September 6
  Ask Me Anything   Tune in to hear the answers to these questions:
  • Pat- loonyhiker asked: I know you have probably told this before, but I'd love to hear how you and your honey met. I also would love to hear how your parents met. (bonus audio of my parents talking about this by the pool in 2017)
  • Sandy, sjh801 asked:  Favorite children's book? Both as a child and now as an adult.
    • Children's Book (purely for sentimental reasons): Walk Rabbit Walk by Colin McNaughton. Amazon Affiliate Link. Hardcover available for ~$20 & paperback for around $7
    • Adult book: Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. Amazon Affiliate Link.John Lee does the audiobooks for what is now this series of books. Book 1 of 5 now in this series. I love them all.
  • Dianne, woohoogirl asks: Do you have a Dream project that you'd really like to make that you just haven't made the time, or plans, for yet?
  • Carrie, Gooberdawn asks: Do you have a project you have created that you feel most proud of? If so, which one and why? ETA: it doesn't have to be yarn-related.
  • Laura, LauraKnitsPA asks: What is one book you would read over and over, and one movie you would watch over and over?
  • Dani, stitchintime82-  Any updates on designing? I've enjoyed your patterns and am wondering if you have any plans to make more patterns.
  On a Happy Note
  • I was able to get my Apple watch to charge again after I thought it was dead.
  • Oikos yogurt shake/drinks with 23g of protein.
  • My friend Nathan had a heart and kidney transplant just over 1 year ago. He's still learning to walk again after ECMO caused major nerve damage in his legs- and we just went to see the musical he directed. Sometimes this world feels so dark right now but this made me incredibly happy.
  • The night we had tickets for the show, we lost power, so we made it a full date night and went for dinner too.
  • A visit from my cousin Gayle. We enjoyed a great pool day on Sunday and dinner in our town Monday night followed by a walk along the harbor.
  • Gayle chose Mom's Trickle shawl as the item she wanted of hers. I took a photo of her and Google photos turned it into a pop-out.
  • I gifted Gayle the pair of Stranger Things 2 socks from DVD as an early birthday gift and she sent me a cute photo of her wearing them the next morning.
  • Great customer service from an Etsy maker to order pins.
  • I had fun putting together photos Millie, Teaghan and Rhiannon asked me to take a couple weekends ago at the pool of them jumping off the diving board and making their bodies into the shape of the letters of the alphabet. Fun memories!
  Quote of the Week "It's not hotels and nightclubs I crave, or even spectacular beaches -- it's isolation and solitude, time away from the human world and a chance to measure life on a different kind of yardstick." ― Peter S. Adler   ------ 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:  
Episode 302: Bayside & Poolside31 juil. 202500:57:13
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 302 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
  • KAL News
  • Events
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu (2nd Episode of the Month) check out her new prints now in the shop! Check out Stitched by Jessalu bags and so much more at Fiber Revival in Newbury, MA- August 16th   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Tom's Cozy
  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • Hooks: G (4.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Thread Classic Cotton in Tomato & Royal Blue. Lion Brand Re-up in White
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Modified from the original Ball Band pattern to fit this larger sized cup.
  • 38g/ 58 meters
  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
  • Border: 2 rounds of half-double crochet- first in charcoal, second in teal.
  • Stash Dash total: 2,368 meters
  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
  • Used contrast mini (dark gray) for heels and toes
  • Stash Dash: 263.2 meters
  Bayside Shirt
  • Pattern: Bayside Shirt by Briana Luppino ($9 pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) US 3 (3.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Handspun Yarn from 2 bumps from Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence + 4 ounce braid from Jakira Farms 85/15 Polwarth/Silk (Ravelry Project Page for handspun) Finished in 2023.
  • Size: 32" bust
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 200 grams used. 324 meters
  Stash Dash Total for this episode - 8,305 meters   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Granny Stripe Top
  • Yarn: MC= Woolen Women Fibers 80/20 Sock in the Watermelon colorway. CCs= Hedgehog Fiber Sock in Harvest Colorway + Legacy Fiber Artz minis from advent calendars
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) to cast on & D (3.25 mm) for body
  • Pattern: none
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Goal is 36" around
  • Progress: I did rip out and start again.  With MC: 156 Foundation SC/ 52 clusters.
  Log Cabin Blanket
  • Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel
  • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Inspired by Rachel (treehousefiberarts on Instagram) and Sue & Chelsea (Legacy Fiber Artz on Instagram). Check out the Floss Toss Ravelry Group for details on their Scrappy Blanket CAL; you do not have to use this pattern. Any scrappy crochet blanket counts.
  • My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry. The basic idea is that you use 1 main color for Rounds 1 & 3 (center and outer square), and then 4 separate colors for the 4 sides of the middle square)
  • Round 1 & Round 3 done using same colors (2 sock yarns held together)- totals about 22g (11g of each colorway)
  • Contrast Colors: total weight of yarns used (reminder- yarns are held double so I only need half the weight listed for each mini). CC 1 & 2: 2g needed. CC 3 & 4: 4g needed
  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
  • Progress: I turned heel on the first sock at the pool last weekend.
  Sum-Sum-Summertime socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the colorway Sum-Sum-Summertime
  • 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- thinner stripes- 2 colors of aqua, lime green, pink and an orange/peachy yellow. CC mini in lime
  • Progress: finished first sock. Several inches into the second sock. Cuff, heel and toe in lime contrast color.
  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.
  • 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: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors (orange, yellow, peach, greens & aquas .
  • Jenna of 716 also sent me the mini skein set which is part of her SPP Exclusives.
  • Progress: Finished sock 1, with contrast (aqua) for cuff, heel and toe. Cast on for the second sock. Riley knit on them a bit last weekend.
  Brainstorming
  • Seattle travel knitting musings
  • What to buy at Flock Fiber Festival?
  • Rhinebeck Sweater Plans- do you have any yet? I'm not even 100% sure I'm going but I'm thinking about it.
  From the Armchair     Note: Some links are 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  
  • A Crafty Day with Emelie was on my 25 for 2025 list and I'm happy to say I checked that off. Emelie (almost 7) came over with her mom, my cousin Kara, and her brother Teddy (5). Millie and Riley also joined in the fun. We ended afternoon with ice cream!
  • Learned from Gretchen Rubin's newsletter that July in World Watercolor Month! I've been looking for resources, inspiration etc and there's lots of cool things there.
  KAL News   Splash Pad Party '25   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Pigskin Party '25 Sponsor Sign Up is Open- click here for details Key Dates:
  • Registration starting Thursday August 20, 2025
  • KAL Starts- Thursday September 4, 2025
  • KAL Ends- Monday February 9, 2026
  • Form Teams- starting Monday August 25, 2025
  • Virtual Kick Off- Friday September 5 & Saturday September 6
  Events   On a Happy Note
  • Finally getting my hair cut & colored (and combining that with a fun night at the pool)
  • Impromptu date night with Dan to a local brewery and restaurant
  • Our nephew Will turned 18. We got beautiful weather for his party.
  • My friend Christine & her family came to stay for a long weekend. We all crashed with my Dad. Pool time, Penny Drop (game), a Plymouth harbor cruise, night swims and lots of laughs. Millie knit on her hat & scarf a little bit. Riley knit on my socks.
  • My cousin Chris's wife Kim delivered a beautiful and healthy baby girl- Vivienne!
  • I got an adorable Strawberry Shortcake sweatshirt on clearance at Target for $7
  • Going to The Snug for live Irish music
  Quote of the Week "I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness for it shows me the stars."   ― Og Mandino   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 301: Summer of Color15 juil. 202501:03:28
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 301 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
  • Life in Focus
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fitness by Mara   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: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (Yarnable Box January 2025) in the Intergalactic colorway
  • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 94 grams of yarn
  • Stash Dash: 376 meters
  Kim's Trenta Ball Band
  • Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts
  • Hooks: G (4.25 mm)
  • Yarn: Loops & Thread Classic Cotton in Royal Blue and Aqua
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Modified from the original Ball Band pattern to fit this larger sized cup.
  • 38g/ 58 meters
  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. Free crochet pattern on Attic 24 website.
  • Hook: I (5.5 mm)
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • 7 colorways with 100g, 1 with 50g.
  • Size:
  • 11.64 skeins-  582 grams
  • 2316.4 meters
  Stash Dash Total for this Episode: 5,291 meters   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
  • All of the 9 block squares now have been seamed and have their 3 round gray border.
  • Border- undecided.
  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.
  • 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: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors (orange, yellow, peach, greens & aquas .
  • 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: Cuff and heel are in contrast aqua. Approaching 1st toe (will also be aqua)
  Granny Stripe Top
  • Yarn: MC= Woolen Women Fibers 80/20 Sock in the Watermelon colorway. CCs= Hedgehog Fiber Sock in Harvest Colorway + Legacy Fiber Artz minis from advent calendars
  • Hooks: F (3.75 mm) to cast on & D (3.25 mm) for body
  • Pattern: none
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • Progress: I crocheted a few inches but its coming out too large. I will likely rip back and restart.
  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
  • Picked back up old WIP- started October 2024. Nearly to heel of sock 1
  Over the Rainbow Socks
  • Yarn: Cashmere & Coconuts MCN Sock yarn in the Somewhere Over the Rainbow 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:
  • Yarn- gift from Kris on Mom's 1st heavenly birthday. Part way through the leg of sock 1
  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 second sock (contrast heel)
  Same as it Ever Was Hat
  • Yarn: fingering weight yarn from stash (no ball band); maybe MCN base
  • Needles: US 2 (LOOK UP NEEDLE SIZE MM)
  • Pattern: Same as it Ever Was by Sarah Jordan $6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry
  • Ravelry Project Page
  • About the yarn: all different shades of gray with blips of a mustardy/rust and turquoise
  • 8g for the crown increases
  Bayside Shirt
  • Pattern: Bayside Shirt by Briana Luppino ($9 pattern available on Ravelry)
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm)
  • Yarn: Handspun Yarn from 2 bumps from Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence + 4 ounce braid from Jakira Farms 85/15 Polwarth/Silk (Ravelry Project Page for handspun) Finished in 2023.
  • Size: 32" bust
  • Ravelry Project Page
  Brainstorming   The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the Drea Renee Knits website)   Log Cabin Blanket
  • Sue and Chelsea from Legacy Fiber Artz are making the Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison (free crochet pattern)  Ravelry Pattern Page.
  • I've had this pattern in my favorites for more than 2 years.
  • I was looking for the Julie Harrison pattern and came across this Ravelry pattern by hookloopsarah which features a log cabin layout that's more of a background color with 4 pops of color that seem to leap up from it. Love this idea!
  From the Armchair     Note: Some links are 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 Watercolors are still keeping my creative attention. Loving it!   Knitting in Passing  
  • On a July 3 MBTA ferry commute, I sat with a crocheter. We talked about our projects and fav LYSs. I showed her how simple magic loop knitting is.
  • Laura brought socks to her client David when she got back to NY. He sent me a photo asking if they were Cashmere because they were so soft and noting how great they looked with the pants he had on. Then I got a pic of his foot under his desk at work the next day. (Ravelry Project Page)
  • On July 7, a man chatted with me on the Red Line about memories of his mother, sisters and daughters crocheting.
  • Emelyn has been wanting to crochet again but is feeling rusty. On July 4th I reminded them how to single & half-double crochet. Last weekend, they started a star project so we worked with DC and how to work corners and getting used to reading a pattern.
  In My Travels   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize!   Events   Life in Focus   July 2- half way day   25 in 2025 List
  1. Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March, May, ) - on track
  2. Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year (my Christmas gift from him) - not yet
  3. Buy new ski boots- DONE
  4. Go camping- DONE
  5. Kayak 2-5 times- DONE
  6. Do at least 5 walks with others- DONE
  7. Take 2-5 yoga classes (outside of the house)- not yet
  8. Do at least 30 lessons in Mondly- not yet
  9. Spend a day at Raffa Life- scheduled for September
  10. Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts)- I've fallen off. Looking forward to getting going again.
  11. Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to)- not loving it. some parts are more religious than I expected... may pop back in, but I've gotten out of this.
  12. Read at least 60 books- all books count (even poetry etc)- 28 books by end of June. It's possible!
  13. Get at least 2 massages at Oasis - DONE
  14. See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru)
  15. Knit 2-5 garments for me - 1 done, # WIPs
  16. Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket- on pause until after Stash Dash
  17. Crochet at least 5 toys- DONE
  18. Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (January-April done, I think I forgot to spin in May and June. Going to get back in. Will still be better than most years!
  19. Have a crafty day with Emelie- talked to her mom about this.
  20. Knit a slouchy hat for myself- not yet
  21. Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, White Lotus official podcast, severance official podcast, Cramped) - DONE
  22. Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara (bringing the tradition back) -- talks have begun!
  23. Buy a firebox and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it)- not yet
    1. https://www.thenokbox.com (Debbie, deafelis recommended)
  24. Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation - not yet
    1. https://www.thenokbox.com/ 
  25. Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes- DONE
  On a Happy Note
  • Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge (with brunch beforehand)
  • July 4th pool day
  • Ending an awful workday with drinks outdoor at Trillium, then apps and more drinks and picking up Laura to take her home on the Ferry watching 3rd of July fireworks.
  • Making our rainbow sunglass photo!
  • July 5th secondhand shopping, lunch with Megg and Laura + ice cream (of course)
  • Rewatching Gilmore Girls
  • Line dancing at the beach + seeing a really cool rainbow
  • Dinner outdoors with Dad, Millie and Dan.
  • 2 pool party day last weekend.
  • Shout out from Kelly in the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures podcast. Thank you!
  • Seeing a young buck in the driveway
  Quote of the Week Love is a creative act. When you love someone you create a new world for them. TREVOR NOAH   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
Episode 300: Sum-Sum-Summertime30 juin 202500:59:45
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 300 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
  • On a Happy Note
  • Quote of the Week
  Thank you to this episode's sponsors:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   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
  • 7 balls and 7 cups. 6 to create hexagon and white in the center.
  • Stash Dash: 234 meters
  • SPP-116 grams- 2 entries
  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
  • Stash Dash- 280.5 meters (306.8 yards),
  • SPP- 75 grams
  • 9.5 inch leg, 9.25 inch foot
  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.
  • Stash Dash: 256 meters
  • 64 grams- 1 SPP Entry
  Ball Band for Rachel #2- for Starbucks Venti Cup
  • 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
  • Midnight blue hdc through 3rd loop. 1 round of pink sc, body in pewter sc, one round of blue at top.
0.37 skeins = 40.3 meters (44.1 yards), 25 grams
  • Stash Dash: 40.3 meters
  Ball Band for Starbucks Venti Cup (Jen)
  • 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 and Bubblegum
  • Project Page
  • 0.57 skeins = 62.1 meters (67.9 yards), 39 grams
  Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea 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: 2 lighter/medium grays, cream, mustard and a thinner stripe of a charcoal bordering on black. Used the CC gray for cuff and will use for the toe.
  • Finished on the ride to ME for camping.
  • 0.8 skeins = 300.8 meters (329.0 yards), 80 grams
  • 8.5 inch leg. 9.5 inch foot
  Urth Yarn Hat 2 of 2
  • 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
  • Cast on 92 sts. Used 48g of this skein for hat for Christmas gift
  • Stash Dash: 0.56 skeins = 112.6 meters (123.1 yards),
  • SPP- 56 grams- 1 entry
  • Had to do decreases faster because I was running out yarn. Ended up with maybe 1 yard
  • Hat is 8.25 inches tall. Still a great size.
  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
  • Cream/gray mini that came with it for cuff. purply/pink mini from LFA advent for heel and toe.
  • Socks for Laura
  • 0.58 skeins = 245.3 meters (268.3 yards), 58 grams
  • 1 SPP for grams, 1 for Snack Shack LFA yarn, 1 for Snack Shack Sponsor- The Sensible Stitcher- cute butterfly bag.
  Stash Dash Total for this episode: 2,541 meters   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket
  • Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square 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 14 (of 35) squares done and seamed. Now I have 17 done. Baby due in September. Lots of time. Loving joining as I go but its less portable this way.
  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 dug this out while cleaning out my studio on one of the very hot days before we left for camping. I had 3 squares of 9 that were seamed up but that didn't have the 3 rounds of DC border on them that I'm doing in dark gray. I finished those over the course of the week's train rides, then got the rest out and found 1 more that needed the border. All of those are done now.
  • The other 8 squares have already been steamed. Plan to steam the most recently finished 4 then start SCing the big squares together.
  • Border- undecided. May do a few rounds of gray. May incorporate colors. Debating an iCord border. I can't decide.
  • Before border- 44 inches long by 24 inches long
  • 50g per square x 12
  • ~600g= 2,400 meters of sock yarn
  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.
  • 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: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors (orange, yellow, peach, greens & aquas .
  • 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: Finished leg. Cuff and heel are in contrast aqua. love them.
  Sum-Sum-Summertime socks
  • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the colorway Sum-Sum-Summertime
  • 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- thinner stripes- 2 colors of aqua, lime green, pink and an orange/peachy yellow. CC mini in lime
  • This is not a SPP colorway but its the perfect colorway for this year's SPP logo. Should have reminded Michele to sign up😉
  • Brought these camping. Several inches into the first leg
    From the Armchair  
  1. All's Fair in Love and Pickleball by Kate Spencer. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  2. The Surrogate Mother by Freida McFadden. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  3. Audition by Katie Kitamura. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  4. It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  5. The Exception to the Rule by Christina Lauren. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  6. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  7. Young Jane Young by Gabrielle Zevin. 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'm still having fun with watercolors but I have a lot to learn. Any tips on good learning resources?   Knitting in Passing
  • I was on an inpatient unit at the hospital where I work and asked a woman if she had one of the phones I was looking to upgrade. She said no, but that she's seen me on the train knitting. We had a nice chat and I told her to say hi next time she sees me.
  In My Travels 12 of us went camping up in Maine at On the Saco Family Campground.   KAL News   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   Updates for this Episode:
  • Prizes- chose from 4  cabanas this time and will choose from the other 4 next episode. At the end of the event, I'll pull 4 more from the most chatty Cabanas
  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.
    • Single Bingo spots:
      • Free space
      • Craft: flower focused- watercolor flowers
      • Start a new project: Woolens and Nosh Sum-Sum-Summertime socks
      • Create something 3-dimensional: granny square top
      • Finish a WIP- over 2,000 meters worth of those. 
      • Bonus--- Summer book It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan. Amazon Affiliate Link.
  • 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
    On a Happy Note
  • My friend Megg's first June recital for her new dancing school was a big success. I helped with set-up, worked the door and clean up. I am very proud of her. I also got to see some of kiddos dance- Emelyn, Hattie and Aila were in the show. All 3 were in one dance.
  • I was totally surprised when during the award's ceremony they announced a new award "The Diane Lassonde Ruby Slipper Award" and Hattie was the first recipient.
    • For a dancer who shows "hard work, dedication but also build community and helps to make sure all studnets feel welcome at DLA, because as Diane knew and told us, There is No Place Like Home."
  • Riley & Millie's recital, followed by Father's Day Lunch, and Miles' 1st birthday party.
  • Jeff and I both showed up Father's day with pink and white checkered outfits- his shirt. my dress. very funny.
  • Camping- huge happy note. Just love the couple who runs the place, Tori and Jason. So kind and generous. Discount when we came with less people. Ziplocs sold out, they gave me some of their own. It's just refreshing to know people like that are still around.
  • Dance parties all the time. Something that Megg initiates and it makes my dad laugh so hard. I love it.
  • Going to Hornstra for ice cream with Riley and her bff Ellie.
  • Celebrating Oisin's 17th birthday and getting to see Terri's new house.
  • A fun June Patreon Zoom after a lousy day/week at work.
  Quote of the Week "Times of stress are also times that are signals for growth, and if we use adversity properly, we can grow through adversity."   —Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski   ------   Contact Information:  
Episode 299: ABCs- Abstraction, Birthdays & Crochet15 juin 202501:03:49
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     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 RAVELRY Links   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:  
Episode 298: Socks & Blankets31 mai 202501:00:36
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   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   KAL News     Splash Pad RAVELRY Links   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   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:  
Episode 297: Prepping the Splash Pad15 mai 202500:46:17
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 RAVELRY Links   Virtual Kick Off- Sunday June 1st   Events     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:  
Episode 296: Another Openin'30 avr. 202500:57:30
  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   Note: Some links are 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.   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     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)
  • 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:  
Episode 295: Fiber Witch Fun15 avr. 202500:51:20
  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   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:  
Episode 294: Travels, Time & T-Rex31 mars 202500:49:43
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   Note: Some links are 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
  • 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     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:  
Episode 293: Love Bugs15 mars 202500:47:40
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   Note: Some links are 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   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:  
Episode 292: Magic of Oz28 févr. 202500:41:00
  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- https://store.stitchedbyjessalu.com/Limited-Edition-FearLESS-Living-Fund-p633381494. 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   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:      
Episode 291: WIPs Galore15 févr. 202500:50:09
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     Note: Some links are 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   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:      
Episode 290: Welcome31 janv. 202500:58:34
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   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!     Events   Contest, News & Notes     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:      
Episode 289: A Sad Goodbye16 janv. 202500:54:42
  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.
  • 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?
    • 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:      
Episode 288: Makeup & Mint15 déc. 202400:32:42
  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   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   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!    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   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:      
Episode 287: Peace & Light30 nov. 202400:38:40
  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   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   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:  
Episode 286: An Actual Knitting Emergency15 nov. 202400:59:23
  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   Watching:   Note: Some links are 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   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   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:  
Episode 285: Silverlining31 oct. 202400:46:25
  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   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   From the Armchair   Note: Some links are 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   Events     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:  
Episode 284: Vermont Sheep & Wool15 oct. 202400:55:44
  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     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.
  • 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   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:  
Episode 283: PUMPKINS!30 sept. 202401:02:20
  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.
  • 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   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:  
Episode 282: Every Room is the Craft Room15 sept. 202400:50:13

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

https://i0.wp.com/www.downcellarstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Pigskin-Party-24-Header-1.jpg?ssl=1
  • 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

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:

Episode 281: Ready to PARTY!31 août 202401:12:53
  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:     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   Note: Some links are 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   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:   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   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? 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:  
Episode 280: Ring the Bell!31 juil. 202401:03:00
  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:     Events   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:  
Episode 279: Makes, Milestones & Memories30 juin 202400:57:55

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
  • 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.

My total as of this episode: 3,765.2 meters

Events

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:

Episode 278: Game ON!31 mai 202400:46:21
  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 278 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   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   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     Note: Some links are 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   Events   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).
  • 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:          
Episode 277: 1 month of making + updates15 mai 202400:58:02
  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
  • 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     Note: Some links are 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   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:  
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