YarnCraft

YarnCraft Episode 117 :: Becoming a Professional Yarncrafter: 3 Stories; Plus 6 Ways to Make a Custom Afghan

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 22 May 2012 13:00:47 +0000

Liz is currently home on maternity leave with her new baby Theodore, and we wish her family all the best.

On this episode, Michelle (manager of the Lion Brand Yarn Studio in NYC) joins Zontee as we explore the stories of how Michelle and Patty Lyons (director of the LBYS) got into the yarn industry professionally, and what it has meant for them personally.

We also share an interview with Brenda Dayne, the popular podcaster behind Cast On, who tells us about her North American tour, her ongoing art project, and what it’s like to live (and craft) in Wales.

For more stories of why we knit & crochet, check out episode 88. For more info on becoming a designer or working in the industry, check out episode 72 or episode 21, or check out the Stash This section of episode 102.

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, Zontee & Michelle talk about different methods of constructing afghans–whether you want to make it in pieces for portability or you want to make it seamless for less sewing.

Patterns discussed include:

Join us for our next episode, when we talk about yarn bombing and the fiber arts world, with an interview with Magda Sayeg–considered by many to be the creator of yarn bombing. Have you seen fiber arts (yarn bombing or otherwise) in your community? Tell us about your experiences! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

00:09 Intro & welcome
01:55 What’s on Zontee & Michelle’s hooks & needles?
04:37 How Michelle become a yarncrafting professional
10:36 Interview with Patty Lyons
16:42 Interview with Brenda Dayne
25:58 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
40:02 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 116 :: 10 Knit & Crochet Gift Ideas for Father’s Day

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 08 May 2012 13:00:04 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft116.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee share ideas for great knit & crochet gifts for the men in your life. With Father’s Day coming up in about a month, we talk about project ideas–and ways that you can customize them based on your father’s (or uncle, brother, husband, etc.) favorite activities, sports teams, or colors.

We also interview Shannon Mullet-Bowlsby, one half of the Shiba Guyz design team, who shares one man’s perspective on considerations when making garments and other projects for the guys in your life. Find out the one modification that you might want to consider when making a sweater for your guy! Click here to learn more about their newest book, Urban Edge.

Patterns discussed include:

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we talk about different ways to approach patterns for the graduating student in your life. Whether he or she is planning on spending the summer at the beach or in the working world, we have gift ideas that send them off into the next stage of their lives in style!

Join us for our next episode, when we’ll be joined by popular podcaster Brenda Dayne. We’ll also be talking about different career paths that lead into the world of yarncrafting. Have you turned a hobby into a job? Tell us about your experiences! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

00:13 Intro & welcome
01:17 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
05:51 Gift Ideas for Father’s Day
17:03 Interview with Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby
26:48 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
34:04 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 115 :: 21 Projects for Weddings, Proms & Formals

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:30:16 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft115.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, we get in the mood for formal events, whether that’s galas, weddings, or proms, we have some wonderful project ideas for you! Find out which yarns and fibers are best for day and evening events.

We also share a listener call; Emily shares her suggestion of the Dragonfly Shawl from Kristin Omdahl’s book, Crochet So Fine, as a great option for weddings.

Patterns discussed include:

Crochet Shimmer Mesh Shawl and Bag
Crochet Moon Water Clutch
Crochet Evening Glitter Clutch
Crochet Bridesmaid Purse or Knit Twilight Clutch
Knit Shimmer-By-Night Bag
Crochet New Year’s Purse
Crochet South Bay Shawlette or Knit Savannah Wrap
Crochet Mother of the Bride Shawl
Crochet Modern Lace Shawl or Knit Eyelet Shawl
Crochet Bridal Shawl or Knit Splendid Triangle Shawl
Crochet Evening Allure Cape
Irish Crochet Shawl or Knit Shimmery Shawl
Crochet Emily Shawl or Knit Sweetheart Shawl
Crochet Opera Sleeves
Crochet Cinderella Wristers
Stocking and dress patterns and ideas can be found on Ravelry.com

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, Liz & Zontee share some recommendations for their favorite garment pattern books, going beyond just pullovers and cardigans into dresses, skirts, jackets, and tops.

Books discussed include:

The Best of Interweave Crochet
The Best of Knitscene
Simply Crochet by Robyn Chachula
Textured Stitches by Connie Chang Chincchio
Custom Crocheted Sweaters by Dora Ohrenstein
Crochet It. Love It. Wear It. by Drew Emborsky (the Crochet Dude)
Knits That Fit
Knitwear Design Workshop by Shirley Paden
Modern Top-Down Knitting by Kristina McGowan
Couture Crochet Workshop by Lily Chin
Austentacious Crochet by Melissa Horozewski

Our next episode will be focused on Father’s Day gifts and celebrations. What do you love to make for the main man in your life? Have you knit or crocheted something for him? Tell us about it! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

00:12 Intro & welcome
01:20 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
07:15 Listener Emily calls in
09:18 Projects for weddings, proms & formals
20:34 Congratulations to our giveaway winner
24:33 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
31:15 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 114 :: Tips on Picking Warm Weather Yarns, PLUS 5 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:58 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft114.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee talk about warm-weather-friendly fibers and yarns. Not only do they talk about fiber qualities that make certain fibers more cool to the touch, but they also talk about how you can adapt certain patterns to use lighter weights of yarn to create garments that are less bulky and more comfortable.

Find out how you can re-write a pattern using the original schematic and your gauge swatch.

Yarns discussed include:

Patterns discussed include:

Again, we want to congratulations to Joyce, who won our random giveaway for episode 113!

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we share ideas for Mother’s Day presents you can finish in the next month. Patterns discussed include:

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about projects for prom, weddings, and formal events. Have you knit or crocheted something for a special occasion? Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

00:12 Intro & welcome
01:11 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
11:46 Tips on warm-weather-friendly fibers & yarns
20:34 Congratulations to our giveaway winner
21:16 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
28:31 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 113 :: 5 Spring Cleaning Tips (Plus Project Ideas) for Knitters & Crocheters

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:30:48 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft113.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee share their favorite tips for spring cleaning–translate your regular spring cleaning rituals (like switching out your wardrobe or getting papers ready for taxes) into rituals that will help you get your knit & crochet supplies in order!

Plus get tips on throwing a stash-and-more-swapping party that will help you and your friends refresh and rejuvenate your yarncrafting spaces!

We also answer listener questions on: controlling the curl in your crochet scarf, and beginner-friendly knitting projects & cast-on tips.

Then Liz & Zontee also share their pattern recommendations for home decor projects to freshen up your space. Patterns discussed include:

Crochet Fall Nesting Bowls
Knit & crochet felted storage bags
Knit, crochet & woven pillows
Knit, crochet & woven washcloths
Knit & crochet bath items
Knit & crochet sachets
Knit, crochet & woven market bags
Knit & crochet plastic bag keeper
Knit, crochet & woven placemats
Knit, crochet & woven coasters
For the items pictured photo above, click on the photo to view the patterns.

On Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we talk about 3 brand new yarns from Lion Brand: Casey (a rayon-from-bamboo blend baby yarn), Chenille (a new take on this classic texture), and Kitchen Cotton (100% cotton, made in the USA, in smaller mix-and-match-sized balls).

Congratulations to the winner of last episode’s Knitting for Peace giveaway, Tammy Scott! To find charities in your area, click here to visit the Lion Brand Charity Connection database.

For this episode’s giveaway, leave a comment below about your spring projects by April 5, 11:59:59 EDT for a chance to win a copy of Crafting a Meaningful Home. Please be sure to leave your email address in the designated box. Open to individuals of the age of majority in their respective locales; void where prohibited.

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about warm-weather-friendly fibers & Mother’s Day projects. What fibers do you like to work with during this season? Share your thoughts with us! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

00:12 Intro & welcome
01:13 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
08:02 Spring cleaning tips for knitters & crocheters
22:13 Refresh your home decor with fast projects for every room
27:52 Enter this episode’s giveaway
29:53 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
33:53 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 112 :: 10 Top Yarncrafting Lessons & Tips

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:00:22 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft112.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee, along with listeners like you and other Lion Brand staffers share their top lessons-learned & tips for yarncrafters. From keeping your tools organized to checking your dye lots to knowing when to stay away from the pets, find out what are the lessons we wish we knew when we started out.

Patterns discussed include:

Click here for the blog post on directional decreases mentioned on this episode.

Next, on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, Liz & Zontee share their top picks for favorite stitch dictionaries and motif books. Books discussed included:

We’re spring cleaning, which means that YOU have a chance to win a copy of Knitting for Peace. For a chance to win, just leave a comment on this blog post about charity yarncrafting (what you’ve made, to whom you’ve given, why, etc.). Be sure to include your email address in the appropriate box, so that we can reach you if you win! Comments must be left by 11:59:59 EDT on March 22 to qualify.

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about spring cleaning your crafting space and closet. Do you have any particular spring cleaning rituals, yarncrafting or otherwise? Share your thoughts with us! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

Show Notes:
00:12 Intro & welcome
01:09 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
05:22 Liz & Zontee’s top yarncrafting “life lessons” & tips
14:43 Lion Brand staff lessons & tips
Giveaway information
19:47 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
29:06 Thanks to our listeners & colleagues

YarnCraft Episode 111 :: 15+ Patterns to Knit & Crochet for Your Kids

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:37:42 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft111.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee talk all about patterns and projects that are perfect for the kids in your life, whether they’re newborn or teens. We also talk about different ways that you can involve your children in your projects for them. Find out the easy and creative ways they can contribute to your projects!

Patterns discussed include:

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we talk about must-have reference books for your yarncrafting library. For the Principles of Knitting giveaway mentioned on the show, click here. For more information about Margaret Radcliffe’s classes at the Lion Brand Yarn Studio, click here.

Books mentioned include:

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about yarncrafting life lessons and “ah ha” moments. Do you have a lesson or story that you want to share? Share your thoughts with us! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

Show Notes:
00:12 Intro & welcome
01:17 What’s on Liz & Zontee’s hooks & needles?
05:22 Perfect Patterns for Kids of All Ages
22:23 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
29:44 Thanks to our listeners

YarnCraft Episode 110 :: 10 Spring-Friendly Projects, Plus 3 Fiber Artist Interviews

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:30:15 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft110.mp3)

On today’s episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee start looking ahead to spring with patterns for shawls, shrugs, bags, and more. As the weather gets warmer, we start thinking about making garments and accessories that are bright and airy, as well as useful for layering. Find out why you’ll want to think about small projects and bright colors this season.

Patterns discussed include:

Also discussed are tips for “reversing shaping.” Resources mentioned include:

Next, we share interviews with three fiber artists whose yarn creations are inspiring and varied: Anna Hrachovec of MochiMochi Land, Ruth Marshall, and Suzanne Tidwell. These interviews were recorded at Vogue Knitting Live this past January.

Finally, on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we check in with our listeners and find out where you are with your goals and resolutions. We also share tips for accomplishing some specific goals mentioned by listeners. Resources mentioned in this segment include the Universal Toe-Up Sock Formula and Melissa Leapman’s new book, Stashbuster Knits.

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about patterns and project ideas for the little ones in your life: from babies to tweens and beyond. Do you have a favorite project to make for kids? A favorite age range? A favorite tip? Or even a dilemma? Share your thoughts with us! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

Show Notes:
00:12 Intro & welcome
01:33 Listener comments & questions
08:44 Spring-Friendly Projects
15:31 Interviews with Anna Hrachovec, Ruth Marshall, and Suzanne Tidwell
26:21 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
34:14 Thanks to our listeners and guest

YarnCraft Episode 109 :: 10 Patterns Featuring Textured Stitches, Plus Valentine’s Project Ideas for All Ages

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:37 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft109.mp3)

On this episode of YarnCraft, we’re joined by designer Connie Chang Chinchio, whose book Textured Stitches has just debuted. Zontee interviews her about her design inspiration, the concept behind this book, and how she got started as a designer.

Then Liz & Zontee talk about different types of textures created by stitch patterns. They also share pattern recommendations for capitalizing on textured stitches from cables to front post stitches to slip stitch and more.

Patterns discussed include:

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, the ladies of YarnCraft focus on fast-finish Valentine’s Day projects.

Patterns discussed include:

On our next episode, we’ll be sharing interviews from Vogue Knitting Live. We also want to know what you’ll be working on as we transition into spring. Tell us about your upcoming projects! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

Show Notes:
00:11 Intro & welcome
01:19 Listener comments & questions
05:12 Interview with Connie Chang Chinchio
12:13 Textured Stitch Types and Patterns that Use Them
26:57 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
32:20 Thanks to our listeners and guest

YarnCraft Episode 108 :: 14 New Patterns from Our Catalog, PLUS 5 Trends for 2012

yarncraft@lionbrand.com (Lion Brand Yarn) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:42 +0000

Download audio file (yarncraft108.mp3)

On this episode, Liz & Zontee walk you through the brand new catalog from Lion Brand, which includes dozens of new patterns that are sure to inspire. They talk about the themes that appear throughout the catalog, as well as highlighting 14 awesome new patterns that you’re sure to add to your to-make list!

Patterns discussed include:

Then Zontee interviews popular blogger, humorist, photographer, illustrator, and knitting teacher, Franklin Habit whose blog is The Panopticon and whose book is It Itches: a stash of knitting cartoons. Franklin tells us about some of the classes he teaches, how he got into antique patterns, and how to take a better fiber photo.

Next, on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, Liz & Zontee talk about some of the trend that they’re seeing in for the world of yarncrafting in 2012. Find out what colors will be in style, as well as how to interpret fashion and home decor trends into your knitting and crocheting.

On our next episode, we’ll be talking about textured stitches of different types, as well as patterns for Valentine’s Day. Do you have any favorite textured stitches: bobbles, cables, etc.? Tell us about the textures you love! Leave a message on the blog or email us at yarncraft [at] lionbrand [dot] com! You can also call in and leave a message at 774-452-YARN–that’s 774-452-9276.

Direct Download (Right-click — Ctrl+click on Macs — and select save)

Look for YarnCraft on Blubrry.com.
Join our group or add us as a friend on Ravelry.com!

Theme music is “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine, from the PodSafe Music Network.

Show Notes:
00:13 Intro & welcome
01:24 Listener comments & questions
08:15 The New Lion Brand Catalog
17:09 Interview with Franklin Habit
31:14 Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life
35:50 Thanks to our listeners and guest