Thursday, September 26, 2013

Remind me to remind you - Episode 249 - The Knitmore Girls

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Listen here:

This week's episode is sponsored by:
EcolusciousSkinCare_zps0936c17e
How do you mark the end of summer?  Is it when the kids go back to school, the leaves turn red/orange/yellow, or is it marked by fewer tourists and seasonal residents in your favorite place? In the Pacific Northwest where we can pretty much count the days of summer days on two hands, blackberries have a heavy scent that seems to hang in the air, most trees are at least half red/orange/yellow, and activity at the local fiber stores picks up. At Bar-Maids, the end of summer is marked by the flood of requests for fall scents.  The favorites, Betty Boo, Little Pumpkin, Hot Toddy and the exclusive scent made for Jimmy Bean’s Wool’s, Queen’s Buns are now in-season. Bar-Maids also has three new fall scents that are sure to be big hits. Deep Forest is a warm, rich bay berry scent. Spiced Fig can only be described as clove stuffed fruit; complex but brings feelings of being safe, secure and loved. You can also get the Lo-Lo Body Bar and To-Go bar in Winter’s Bliss which evokes a mild sweetness with faint fresh evergreens. How do you mark the end of summer? Order an in-season scent from Bar-Maids and transition into Fall.
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Purlescence Yarns is the Bay Area's destination yarn shop. From the best in spinning and weaving equipment to luxurious yarns and fibers, we have what you need to make your fibery dreams a reality. We're always happy to provide mail order service for Knitmore Girls listeners. Call us today, it'll be on its way!

On The Needles: (0:32)

Gigi cast on two pairs of Mojo socks, and is enjoying the asymetry of them.  Jasmin almost finished her  15 Color Rainbow Socks, and is trying to figure out the math, so she can make socks for Andrew. We whine about weaving in ends.

Jasmin's Sgt. Pepper from Fab Funky Fibers socks are almost done, but she has never done Jeny's amazingly stretchy bind-off.  #operationsockdrawer on instagram and twitter.

Gigi is behming with pleasure at the new knitalong. The coupon code is "Knitmorebehm". We mention Dr Gemma of the Cogknititve podcast, and our fluid dates on knitalongs. We mention the SPAKAL, and the Cassidy.

Gigi is knitting her Hitchhiker out of Schoppelwolle, and she thinks the colors look just like Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream. Jasmin started her Brickless out of Sheep City USA, superwash merino, vintage stash.

Gigi has started her Brickless out of mystery stash. She also cast on her Leftie out of a Miss Babs kit, and loves the crisp garter stitch. We mention a Leftie on the ravelry board that is knitted with Casablanca. ( WRONG!It is knitted with Noro) Jasmin got excellent customer service and enabling from Miss Babs.

Today's German word: Stricken

Podcaster Throwdown: Hats for Halos of Hope We mention Knotty Girls knitcast, Webs, Savvy Girls.
Halos of Hope Guidelines.

We got supplemental guidelines from a former Chemo patient:
- Yarn should not be scratchy, check for softness against your wrist or your neck
- Hat should be long enough to cover the ears, go over the forehead, and the back of the head.
- Lighter weight hats are more useful and comfortable than bulky ones.
- Slouchy hats need to have enough of a band to keep the hat from slipping of the head.

Our prizes for the  Throwdown are:

Sivia Harding's Sister Joan Shawl, knit by Gigi

Jasmin's handspun:
  • In the Air Tonight, superwash, 328yds, Crown Mountain Farms
  • Violet Cherry, Pidgeonroof Studios, 402 Superwash BFL (187) 374 yds
  • Atlantis 402 Superwash Merino, Crown Mountain Farms, 500 yds
You can follow this on twitter and instagram using #podcasterthrowdown

Events:(25:29)
 
We will be attending Pacific International Quilt Fest at the Santa Clara Convention Center Oct. 17-20.

Contest:(28:48)

The  Famous Last Words Contest will wrap up by Thanksgiving, and we announce prizes:

LoLo Bar Trio
Erin Lane small drawstring bag
Tess Yarns Kitten

Mother Knows Best:(30:19)

This week we answer a question from the "What do you want to hear about?" thread, about a seam finish to prevent raveling. We mention the 11/8" rolled hem foot and Fray Check

We also mention Erin Lane Bags

Clothes On Shows:(35:54)

Jasmin is thrilled with Mary Tyler Moore's clothes on the Dick Van Dyke Show.
We mention The Fiber Factor, the Knotty Girls knitcast , and the Savvy Girls.

Review:(39:17)

This week we review Knitting Scandinavian Slippers and Socks, by Laura Farson 

We mention Abby from the Knit Knit Cafe podcast.

Straw Into Gold:(47:16)

Gigi has been spinning Merino on her Turkish Delight drop spindle, and Corriedale on her Lark
We mention our instagram handles cuteknitter and Gigidahling.

And Sew On:(49:53)

Gigi has been watching Gretchen Hirsch on It's Sew Easy, and is thrilled with her technique.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Rip cord method - Episode 248 - The Knitmore Girls

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Listen here:

This week's episode is sponsored by:
EcolusciousSkinCare_zps0936c17e
Do you know about  Lo-Lo EO's?  EO's (essential oils) are natural compounds derived from plants, that have powerful biochemical compositions which often stimulate our brain, affecting mood and well being.  Like you and me,  Lo-Lo EO’s are a wondrous mixture of individual qualities, some very bold and assertive, others showing a softer, gentler face.  By applying specific EO’s or blends, you choose  the way want your mood affected.  When EO’s are combined with Bar-Maids soothing combination of  natural oils and butters, you have an amazing Lo-Lo experience. EO’s are powerful, and respecting them is appropriate. With that in  mind, do you want to relax, rejuvenate, or recharge? It's all up to you. Lo-Lo EO’s are available in the Body Bar, To-Go Bar, O’ for Feet Sake, Lip Balm, and Cuticle Intensive.
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Are you always on the lookout for new fiber blends and interesting fiber preps? Well search no more! Gourmet Stash is an online fiber arts shop specializing in punis, puni-style rolags, kits, tutorials and mini batts! We have a love of color and luxury fibers that we blend to make each spinning experience truly decadent. Stop by our shop and see what new fiber delicacies are being created every week at www.gourmetstash.com.

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Love self-striping yarns but not quite sure how to use them? Join the Knitcircus Yarns Gradient Yarn Club and let hand-dyer and designer Jaala Spiro guide you! Three packages of exclusive self-striping colorways with patterns written just for them, plus information and lists of favorite patterns for using gradient yarns. The cherry on top? Treats from other indy knitting businesses with every package. Check out the Knitcircus Yarns store for handpainted and kettle-dyed yarns, too!
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Purlescence Yarns is the Bay Area's destination yarn shop. From the best in spinning and weaving equipment to luxurious yarns and fibers, we have what you need to make your fibery dreams a reality. We're always happy to provide mail order service for Knitmore Girls listeners. Call us today, it'll be on its way! 


On The Needles:(0:34)

This week, Rachel from the Knitcents podcast is joining in. Rachel is knitting on a top down-toe up sock out of Bergere de France. Gigi is working on her Something Fishy sock out of Cascade 220 superwash sportweight in multis.

Jasmin is working on her 15 Color Rainbow Socks (#operationsockdrawer), where she is rehoming socks that she is tired of, and replacing them with new, fun socks. Shs mentions Susan B. Anderson's sock drawer. Gigi finished the Spice Man socks out of Fortissima yarn.

Rachel just finished a Gramps cardigan for Genevieve. Jasmin finished her Houdini socks out of Patons Kroy. Gigi has put more rows on the Crocus Vernus socks.

Rachel is also working on a Kerouac sweater out of her own handspun. Gigi has cast on a pair of socks out of Sock Ease. Jasmin cast on another pair of Houdini socks in the Sergeant Pepper colorway, and she uses a crochet cotton rip cord for the leg of the sock.

We talk about the Podcaster Throwdown, and announce some additional prizes.

We also mention the Head to Toe Project.

Events:(13:57)

We will be attending Pacific International Quilt Fest at the Santa Clara Convention Center Oct. 17-20.

Contest:(15:15)

The  Famous Last Words Contest will wrap up by Thanksgiving, and we announce prizes:

LoLo Bar Trio
Erin Lane small drawstring bag
Tess Yarns Kitten
Namaste Circular needle case

Mother Knows Best:(18:16)

This week we answer a question out of the "What do you want to hear about ?" thread, about measuring out 1oz bumps for spinning. Rachel gives us the rule about how much weight one can put on a drop spindle.

When Knitting Attacks:(20:55)

Jasmin tried out a new ball winder and tangled her yarn horribly. Rachel bound off the shawl collar for the Gramps cardigan much too tight, had to pull it out and redo it.

Purloined:(24:22)

This week we are purloining the Mandarin Minute from the Clothed in the Lamb podcast, hosted by Janeen.

Gigi introduces the German words spinnen, Stinos, and Klapperlatschen. We mention Die Urbane Spinnstube, hosted by Distelfliege. Also, Dr Scholl's.

Review:(28:15)

This week we review Scarf Style 2by Ann Budd, and we revisit the first Scarf Style.
Jasmin mentions Abstract Fiber Hedonism, the Un-squirrel it away KAL, the Fat Squirrel and the Knit Girllls.

Straw Into Gold:(37:21)

Gigi loves her Turkish Delight drop spindle, and is spinning Mendenhall merino on it. She also spun alpaca from Dr. Gemma, and was attacked by her spinning. The end disappeared into the rest of the spinning.

Gigi also is working with her Jenkins Lark, and is spinning some Corriedale on it, trying to manage a long draw. She is also reading Respect the Spindle, by Abby Franquemont. Rachel endorses the book and the physics that it teaches.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

T-A-N-G-O - Episode 247 - The Knitmore Girls

Untitled
Listen here:
This week's episode is sponsored by:
EcolusciousSkinCare_zps0936c17e
Do you know about  Lo-Lo EO's?  EO's (essential oils) are natural compounds derived from plants, that have powerful biochemical compositions which often stimulate our brain, affecting mood and well being.  Like you and me,  Lo-Lo EO’s are a wondrous mixture of individual qualities, some very bold and assertive, others showing a softer, gentler face.  By applying specific EO’s or blends, you choose  the way want your mood affected.  When EO’s are combined with Bar-Maids soothing combination of  natural oils and butters, you have an amazing Lo-Lo experience. EO’s are powerful, and respecting them is appropriate. With that in  mind, do you want to relax, rejuvenate, or recharge? It's all up to you. Lo-Lo EO’s are available in the Body Bar, To-Go Bar, O’ for Feet Sake, Lip Balm, and Cuticle Intensive.
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Purlescence Yarns is the Bay Area's destination yarn shop. From the best in spinning and weaving equipment to luxurious yarns and fibers, we have what you need to make your fibery dreams a reality. We're always happy to provide mail order service for Knitmore Girls listeners. Call us today, it'll be on its way!


On The Needles:(0:32)

Gigi has finished a pair of Spice Man socks out of Regia, and one Spice Man Sock out of Fortissima. Jasmin is battling sock drawer ennui, and mentions Susan B. Anderson's sock drawer.
We think we should have a sock drawer thread on the forum.

Jasmin is in love with the  15 Color Rainbow Socks she is knitting out of Fab Funky Fibres, in our Vanilla Sock pattern. Gigi knitted another preemie hat. At knitting group, a bunch of things got finished and are ready to be photographed.

For the Summer of Lace and Beads, Jasmin is thrilled with the Dryad shawl. Gigi has cast on yet another pair of socks, the Something Fishy Socks out of Cascade 220 Superwash sport in Multis.
Jasmin is knitting a pair of Houdini Socks out of Patons Kroy. Gigi is working on the Crocus Vernus Sock out of the Knitter's Curiosity Cabinet.

We are excited about the Behm-Along. (Coupon Code is KnitmoreBehm, active until October !0th)
We mention Diane from the Knitabulls podcast who is hosting the Brickless Knitalong.

Jasmin mentions the Leftie Shawl,  and Miss Babs Yarns.

Podcaster Throwdown: end date is Stitches West, we are looking to double the amount of hats collected at Stitches Midwest. Remember to label your hats carefully with all your info, including Team Knitmore.

We mention the Throwdown Forum, and heckle the Knotty Girls. We will have something extra for people who bring hats for Halos of Hope, and something else for hats for the Head to Toe Project.

Events:(21:35)

We will be attending Pacific International Quilt Fest at  the Santa Clara Convention Center Oct. 17-20.

Contest:(22:35)

The  Famous Last Words Contest will wrap up by Thanksgiving.

Mother Knows Best:(23:54)

A teaspoon of sugar makes the medicine go down.
We mention Dr. Gemma, and the Savvy Girls Podcast.

When Knitting Attacks:(27:11)

Gigi's Lorelei had issues, and got pulled back drastically, the Something Fishy Socks pattern went off track and the Leafwise is resisting its pattern, and was also pulled back a few rows.

Purloined (30:03)

We are purloining the "Put a Lid on it" segment from the Cogknitive podcast.

Review:(32:11)

We are reviewing The Modern Colorwork Collection, by Miriam Felton.

Jasmin mentions Martine and iMake Magazine.

Straw Into Gold:(41:35)

Gigi is spinning fiber from Dr Gemma's alpacas on the wheel. On her Lark drop spindle she is spinning some Terry Mendenhall merino. The Lark is not optimal on the fine merino and she will spin the merino on her Turkish Delight. Jasmin suggest Corriedale or Targhee for spinning a heavier yarn on the Lark.

And Sew On:(44:42)

Gigi is pressing her quilt rows in alternating directions, and getting ready to assemble.

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

In a House with a Mouse - Episode 246 - The Knitmore Girls

 Untitled

Listen here:

This week's episode is sponsored by:
EcolusciousSkinCare_zps0936c17e
She travels….extensively. At times by wheels, sometimes by wing, other times by wave. She  travels while she sits and knits, creativity driving. Creativity inspired by mountain travel, memories, textures and color, small towns, 5th Avenues and spring flowers. She travels…..light. Light as the wind. With her backpack  she is prepared to hike mountain passes, climb the north face, and forge those rivers.  Next week, she will grab her Zucca on wheels and brave airport security flying to the next big city. One thing remains constant. She always travels with a Lo-Lo Body Bar. She knows while hiking, she won’t be bugged, and while in the city, dry skin doesn’t have a chance.
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Purlescence Yarns is the Bay Area's destination yarn shop. From the best in spinning and weaving equipment to luxurious yarns and fibers, we have what you need to make your fibery dreams a reality. We're always happy to provide mail order service for Knitmore Girls listeners. Call us today, it'll be on its way!
On The Needles: (0:30)

Gigi has finished one of the four Spice Man socks she has on the needles. Jasmin is working on the Dryad out of 20/20 Silk by Redfish Dyeworks for her Summer of Lace and Beads, on Hiya Hiya Sharps.

Gigi is working on the Lorelei, but the  beads are on the very last repeat. Jasmin is enjoying the 15 color rainbow socks, and wants to make sure the heel is perfect.

Gigi is working on the Leafwise. Jasmin is working on Stephen West's Akimbo for the Chelsea's Light Foundation, out of Verb for Keeping Warm's Metamorphosis.

Gigi has finished the leg of her first Crocus Vernus Sock, out of the Knitters Curiosity Cabinet, Volume I .

Jasmin mentions her Mondo Cable Cardi, that she knitted out of Miro by Abstract Fiber. She also knit a Mini Mondo for Genevieve and installed a zipper. Gigi knitted two more Preemie hats.

We mention the Knotty Girls Podcast and Benjamin Levisay and the Fiber Hooligan Podcast, and the Podcaster Throwdown for Halos of Hope.( Cap Guidelines here). Purlescence Yarns is a collection location.

Each hat donated towards Team Knitmore will get an entry for a prize drawing, including a beaded shawl knit by Gigi. More prizes to be announced. #podcasterthrowdown.  Marly Bird has offered discounts for the Gerri hat and the Sous Chef hat, coupon code HALO.

Also we talk about incentives for preemie hat donations.

We decided that we need a Behm-along.  We mention the Hitchhiker, Brickless, and the Leftie, which is a wonderful use for precious bits of handspun. There will be a 10% discount for her patterns, code KnitmoreBehm, September 10th - October 10th. The Behm-a-long starts September 21!

Contest:(22:12)

The  Famous Last Words Contest will wrap up by Thanksgiving.

Mother Knows Best:(23:38)

This week we are talking about how to put a zipper into a knitted garment. Jasmin mentions her Mariah and ZipperStop.com, and Hancock Fabrics.

Purloined:(34:40)

This week we are purloining "Confessions" from the Savvy Girls Podcast. We mention Gourmet Stash and Dr Gemma.

Review:(38:29)

This week we are reviewing Tiny Treads by Joeli Caparco.

Straw Into Gold:(45:18)

Gigi is working on some alpaca that was a gift from Dr Gemma and is finding the slick fiber challenging to spin. Jasmin is spinning cormo on her Turkish Delight drop spindle, and she found Gigi's Lark.

We had a wonderful time at the Monterey County Fair Wool Auction. This was Sue Reuser's last year at the auction.We mention Shari from Morro Fleece Works.

Jasmin heard that Abby Franquemont judged the fleeces this year.

And Sew On:(51:52)

Gigi has finished sewing the squares for the Grey and Purple Quilt. She has laid out the top and is sewing rows together. Also she needs to get longer rods for her Flynn Quilt Frame from the hardware store.