Down Cellar Studio Podcast

BostonJen

A Knitting, Photography and Crafting Podcast

  • 39 minutes 30 seconds
    Episode 311: Advents & Adventures
    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:
    15 December 2025, 7:22 pm
  • 58 minutes 43 seconds
    Episode 310: Of Goose & Turkey
    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:
    30 November 2025, 5:10 pm
  • 52 minutes 49 seconds
    Episode 309: Hats & Stockings
    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:
    15 November 2025, 12:00 pm
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    Episode 308: Rhinebeck Recap
    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:
    31 October 2025, 11:00 am
  • 57 minutes 38 seconds
    Episode 307: Yarn Crawls + Side Quests
    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:
    15 October 2025, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 10 seconds
    Episode 306: Fall Vibes
    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:
    30 September 2025, 11:46 am
  • 56 minutes 38 seconds
    Episode 305: Pigskin '25
    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:
    15 September 2025, 11:00 am
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    Episode 304: Flock
    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:
    31 August 2025, 9:03 pm
  • 1 hour 14 minutes
    Episode 303: Ask Me Anything Returns!
    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 [email protected] For website: Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information:
    15 August 2025, 12:00 pm
  • 57 minutes 13 seconds
    Episode 302: Bayside & Poolside
    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:
    31 July 2025, 4:22 pm
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    Episode 301: Summer of Color
    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:
    15 July 2025, 6:07 pm
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