Down Cellar Studio Podcast

BostonJen

A Knitting, Photography and Crafting Podcast

  • 51 minutes 20 seconds
    Episode 295: Fiber Witch Fun
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 295 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • From the Armchair
    • Some Years Later
    • Knitting in Passing
    • In my Travels
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Some Bunny Loves You Socks
    • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Some Bunny Loves You Colorway (Yarnable April 2023 colorway)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- cream base with speckles of purple, blue, rust.
    • Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Get $5 off with coupon code BostonJen
      Belle the Butterfly #3
    • Pattern: Belle the Butterfly $4 pattern from Theresascrochetshop on Etsy
    • Hook: C
    • Yarn: leftover DK yarn from stash
    • Ravelry Project Page
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project
    • Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
      • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
    • Progress: 3rd bobbin done and onto the 4th. This is the batt that never ends! Getting closer but still not done.
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose, Gray
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
    • Goal: 6 per week
    • Progress: 19 2 weeks ago & 12 last week (week 7 & 8)- 106 in 8 weeks- avg/13 per week
    • 129 not attached and 48 attached.
    • Current draft is 18 rows and 16 columns- 288 squares. 177 done/ 111 to go- 61% done
      Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm
    • Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern)
    • Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway
    • Hook: 3.25 mm (D)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist
    • I started in September 2023- due to finish in August 2024. This month, I finished the squares for the last month's kit.
      Let's Get Basted Socks
    • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Let's Get Basted Colorway (Yarnable November 2024 colorway)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- cream with gray, purple, tan/brown and small blips or orange. Spiral pooling.
    • Progress: about 2 inches away from heel of the first sock.
      David... Fold in the cheese socks
    • Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Progress- almost to heel on the first sock  
      Brainstorming
    • I was inspired by Jenna(716knit) at the Fiber Witch Festival, had on a marled scrappy shawl that was gorgeous! It got me thinking that I really want to start something with my Legacy Fiber Artz minis from previous year advents. Maybe a Granny Stripe blanket?
    • Or perhaps another Recollections crochet blanket. I made one in the summer of 2022 (check out my Ravelry Project Page). It uses fingering weight yarn held triple and treble crochets. You work each row right to left and cut each time. between each set of clusters you use a main color. Debating using Fibernymph 10g minis from last year's advent for those rows (notes say it used- about 8g per row but that's held triple which might just be too annoying).
    • I'm debating making a smaller blanket that will live on the backseat of my car, draped over. Mostly for the pop of color with my gray interior but I bet the kids would use it when they're back there.
    • I'd also like to make a crocheted granny square tank top for the summer so I could potentially use some of my minis for that.
    • Do you have any ideas for me?
      From the Armchair  
    • The Wandering Purl YouTube channel- I have a Gilmore Girls sock sized bag from Bethany and I know lots of you are fans of her, but I didn't realize she had a channel!  Enjoying her content, check it out.
    • White Lotus- Season 3: it was a slow burn of a season with some seriously cringy content but I loved how the finale came together.
      Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Some Years Later I wore my Construction Zone top April 4th.   Construction Zone
    • Pattern: Construction Zone by Heidi Kirrmaier ($7.50 US knitting pattern)
    • Yarn: Tempting Ewe Yarns Luxe Aran (90% Merino/10% Silk) in the Grey Goose Colorway. 2 skeins 340 yards total
    • Needles: US 9 | 5.5 mm
    • Ravelry Project Page
      I've been wearing my handknit sweaters as April has been cold and rainy!
    • Aurealis (Ravelry Project Page)
    • Silverlining (Ravelry Project Page)
    • Freewheeler (Ravelry Project Page)
    • Mom's socks
      Knitting in Passing   At a recent rehearsal for Kiss Me Kate, my fellow cast member, Janet, told me about this yarn company her friend Katie Aucella owns called Claws Out Yarn- here's a link to her shop. You can also find Claws Out Yarn on YouTube Channel & Instagram   In My Travels Tune in to hear more about my trip to the Fiber Witch Festival in Salem. I loved meeting up with friends, Monique (Windswept Monique on Instagram) who brought me 2 skeins of beautiful wool yarn that she's allergic to, to sell/raffle off for FearLESS Living Fund. I met up with Ryan kollerskrafts and Jenna 716knit and shopped around with them and we grabbed lunch after. It's always a joy to see bag maker and podcast sponsor Jess of Stitched by Jessalu. Into the Whirled- Cris + James who were there selling jewelry which you can find under the shop name westand28. I believe they will be at Maryland Sheep & Wool. Check them out on Instagram too. They had beautiful handdyed silk cordage bracelets with sterling silver. Each color has meaning. I couldn't decide!  
      • Heart pendant (similar to this one). Mom- fine silver (.999) metal clay.
    Jess also introduced me to Fiber Witch Festival organizers Ana Campos (Circle of Stitches). Emily  (Kitty with a Cupcake). I purchased a progress keeper that's a floppy disk in yellow w/ a rainbow on it. Dragon Hoard Yarn- Myth Fingering in one of her show special colorways- Gardens of Persephone I purchased a project bag (Gardener's Magical Craft Shelf bag) and beautiful sticker with hand drawn art from Dawn Kathryn I had lunch with Ryan and Jenna at Turner's Seafood I visited Circle of Stitches yarn store in Salem. I purchased a mini skein from Cryptic Hollow Fibers, 9 inch circular socks needles from ChiaoGoo. & 2 cute stickers. I was so happy to run into Val (valtherizzle) as I was checking out! I also shopped at Modern Millie's, Re-find (2 pairs of earrings) & Oak & Moss- where I purchased a lemon button fern.   KAL News The Splash Pad Party kicks off soon! It will be our 10th year (even though yes we took last year off). Mark your calendars: June 1- July 31   Events   On a Happy Note
    • I found old photos of theater and dance friends which I brought to rehearsal.
    • My friend and I went to Gretchen Rubin's Q&A for her new book Secrets of Adulthood (Amazon Affiliate link).
    • Dan and I went to the Oligo Nation Gala to support our friend John who was receiving an inspiration award. I wore a fun dress from Poshmark and Mom's jewelry.
    • Kris' birthday dinner at a local mexican restaurant.
    • Dad, Jeff and I enjoyed a video chat organized by my cousin Jimmy.
    • Repotting some plants. Hoping they take.
    • Dinner with Megg at Scutari in Hanover, MA
    • I visited Vico Style on Charles St in Boston- found 2 dresses that could work for Kiss Me Kate & 1 just for me.
    • Visited with my Dad, Millie and Garret over the weekend and we decorated for Easter.
    • Rehearsal for Kiss Me Kate is going well!
      Quote of the Week   Sometimes we should express our gratitude for the small and simple things like the scent of the rain, the taste of your favorite food, or the sound of a loved one's voice. -Joseph B. Wirthlin   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    15 April 2025, 10:30 am
  • 49 minutes 43 seconds
    Episode 294: Travels, Time & T-Rex
    Thank you for tuning in to Episode 294 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • From the Armchair
    • Knitting in Passing
    • In my Travels
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Ask Me Anything
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu
    • Find Stitched by Jessalu at the Fiber Witch Festival Marketplace: April 12-13 in Salem, MA. The Market is 11a-5p Sat & Sunday and market tickets are still available. Pre-purchase or tickets will be available at the door for either day. The 3-5 slot each day is free, so go find Jess and her beautiful bags there!
      Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Aila's Daisy Socks
    • Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 & US 2
    • Progress: Cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing. Increased up to 64 sts. Switched to US 2 needles for colorwork.  Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches before turning the heels.
      How Time Flies Socks
    • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the How Time Flies Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn- cream base with pink, green. January 2024 Yarnable Colorway: Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project
    • Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
      • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
    • Progress: 3rd bobbin done and onto the 4th. This is the batt that never ends!
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose, Gray
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal)
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
    • Goal: 6 per week
    • Progress: I am still ahead of schedule!
      Some Bunny Loves You Socks
    • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Some Bunny Loves You Colorway (Yarnable April 2023 colorway)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- cream base with speckles of purple, blue, rust. Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link
      Inclinations Cowl
    • Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website.
    • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
    • Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link.
    • My Ravelry Project Page
    • Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. Bags are still available! Check them out.
      Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl
    • Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
    • Hook: 2.5 mm
    • Progress: I've made T-Rex head and body.
      Brainstorming  
    • T Jaik flower crochet patterns- check them out on Ravelry. They are so realistic I didn't think they were actually crochet photos!
    • Teddy Bear Eyeglasses holder by Tanya Naser-  free crochet pattern available on Ravelry.
    • Eme's Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks
      From the Armchair   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing
    • On Wed night before music rehearsal Megg asked me to help her cast on a Love Bug with Bernat Blanket to practice for school. (free crochet pattern on Ravelry). Yarn has a lot of twist, got all tangly and we stayed after to untangle it together while other cast members performed on stage.
    • On the first night of rehearsal one of my cast-mates asked about my knitting and through that conversation we figured out we've worked together before. She was the choreographer when I was in a production of Crazy for You at a local community college when I was in high school.
    • I wore my Aurealis sweater (Ravelry Project Page) one night to music rehearsal and my friend Deana complimented it and I told her I knit it!
    • Laura's sock drawer! How gorgeous is this?
      In My Travels Vegas trip for BOSS Reseller Remix & FearLESS Living Fund 2025 Awards
    • We gave away 2 $5,000 scholarships
    • Mom's friend Crystal got a fearless tattoo on her arm.
    • We enjoyed visiting the Sphere to see the Postcards from Earth documentary.
    • We checked out the Bellagio Conservatory for their beautiful display of Easter decor/flowers.
    • Knitting at craps table with Jeff. The manager told me he doesn't see many firsts anymore but I was the first person he'd ever seen knitting in a casino before. He came back a few minutes later asking what I was making- definitely intrigued.
    • It took until the last day- walking through New York New York to find Wizard of Oz slots Mom loved best.
    • It was obviously a bittersweet trip. Ryan Wilson said it best when he said before talking about 2 winners- in some ways this is the most important year because its the first one without Mom and we're still doing it.
    • If you want to see the awards presentation, here's a link to video on my YouTube channel.
      Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission
    • Megg, Riley and I went in the morning.
    • Riley wore her crocheted flowered top (Ravelry Project Page). I wore my Aurealis (Ravelry Project Page)- finally got good FO photos for my Project Pages.
    • I purchased punch needle coasters for my car cup holders from Gina the Botina
    • We also purchased mini skeins from 2 makers- that I sent home with Riley
    • Riley picked out a delicious cinnamon roll from Union Square Donuts that we shared.
    • Megg got some cute crafty projects for her kids for Easter/graduations.
      Events     Contest, News & Notes   I heard about GoSadi in Vogue Knitting email. Have you heard of it?   Ask Me Anything
    • Instagram- Knitbakecook- Do you ever have crafting slumps? If so, how do you overcome them?
      • Yes! Sometimes it helps just to lean into that, don't pressure yourself and then lean back in when you get the urge. More often, what works best is to start something new (or pick back up something that is exciting you). Ideally something small like a hat or a toy so you get that dopamine hit of finishing something fun to get those creative juices flowing. Search your Ravelry favorite or queue, browse Instagram or Pinterest and let yourself day dream a little. Creative time should be fun so find the fun and you'll be excited to get back into things.
    • Instagram- ndoyal- When are you coming to the PNW?!
      • I am planning to go to Flock in August.
    • Instagram- nukerklein- Have you been or are you planning to go to VT Sheep & Wool in the fall?
      • This year it's October 4-5 (Dad's birthday- so likely not this year)
      • Check out this vlog from 2024 trip to VT Sheep & Wool.
    • NDoyal- Dates for Splash Pad
    Sunday June 1 through Thursday July 31st. Would folks be interested if we did Zoom events Sunday 6/1?   On a Happy Note
    • St. Patrick's Day at my cousin's. Emelie "cutting" my hair.
    • Lea made us acrylic pieces with Mom's funeral flowers in them. Keychain, bottle opener and bookmark
    • Riley sleepover- Sample sale (bought matching PJs). Silly pics in the closet before bed. Ushering for Rent at The Company Theatre.
    • Addams Family Musical and Lolita with Megg
    • Dinner with Liz
    • My favorite massage therapist is back at Massage Envy
    • Bike riding with Dan
    • Dinner out at a local Italian place for a friend's birthday.
    • Thrifting and finally watching Kiss Me Kate (movie) with Megg
      Quote of the Week One of the pleasures of getting older is that one can get so much nearer to one's own people, and that the dear ones of them become dearer all the time. –Willa Cather   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    31 March 2025, 10:51 pm
  • 47 minutes 40 seconds
    Episode 293: Love Bugs
    Thank you for tuning in to Episode 293 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • From the Armchair
    • Knitting in Passing
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsor- The Yarn Sellar. Fiber Marketplace 2025- SATURDAY APRIL 5 , 2025 from 10-3pm at the Union Bluff Hotel 8 Beach Street, York Beach Maine 207-363-1333. Join us for a fun-filled party on Friday, April 4th from 5:30-7:00 Andra Asars (Berroco rep) will be hosting our event. Tickets are on sale in the shop and our online shop. You may win a prize. $25 (only 25 tickets)   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Aurealis
    • Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass ($8 US Ravelry Knitting Pattern)
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
    • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Size: C
    • Mods: Bottom ribbing- 2x2 instead of 1x1. Ribbing on sleeves is also 2x2
      Love Bugs
    • Pattern: Love Bug by Trish Hoskin (free crochet pattern on Ravelry)
    • Hook: C- 2.75 mm
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted & Knit Picks Brava Worsted
    • Ravelry Project Page
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Ebb & Flow Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Progress: first sock done. I cast on the second.
      Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project
    • Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
      • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
    • Progress: Nearly finished with my 3rd bobbin of fiber
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose, Gray
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal)
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
    • Goal: 6 per week
    • Crocheted 7 last week.
      Aila's Daisy Socks
    • Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway
    • Pattern: None (will likely use OMG heel)
    • Needles: US 1.5 & US 2
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • I cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing and daisy pattern I charted out using US 1.5 needles. Way too tight. In listening to another podcast, I was reminded that going up a needle size may help. Reknit colorwork section with US 2. Too tight. Washed and blocked to be sure AND to see if I liked the fabric with a US 2. I do. Increased up to 64 sts. Used US 2 for colorwork. Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches.
      Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      From the Armchair   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing
    • Annissa from The Stitch House sat down next to me on train and asked about knitting. It was great catching up with her.
      KAL News
    • All Pigskin Grand Prize Winners have been emailed.
      Events   Contest, News & Notes   Stitched by Jessalu FearLESS Living Fund Bags have raised $194! You can find the bags here & 30% of the sales go towards the FearLESS Living Fund!   Life in Focus   25 in 2025 List- I've made progress on these items
    • Donate Blood at least 4 times (1 in January)
    • Buy new ski boots- DONE
    • Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts)
    • Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to)
    • Get at least 2 massages at Oasis scheduled
    • See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru)
    • Knit 2-5 garments for me (Aurealis & WIP- Monsoonee Sweaters)
    • Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket
    • Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog, 2 love bugs)
    • Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan & Feb, March done)
    • Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend)
    • Buy a fireproof box and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it)
      On a Happy Note
    • A luxurious mani/pedi
    • Dinner with my cousins down in Plymouth.
    • A lovely visit with my grandmother- got her TV working so she could watch the Red Sox again.
    • Pushing outside of my comfort zones in music rehearsals for Kiss Me Kate, but really enjoying the dancing. 2 hours of tap on Sunday! Loved every second.
    • I went to dinner and to see a local production of Rent on Friday evening. My all time favorite show.
    • Season 2 of Silo on Apple TV
    • Paradise on Hulu
      Quote of the Week   I cannot think of myself apart from the influence of the two or three greatest friendships of my life, and any account of my own growth must be that of their stimulating and enlightening influence.   –Edith Wharton ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    15 March 2025, 9:00 am
  • 41 minutes
    Episode 292: Magic of Oz
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 292 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos are available on my website.    This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • Some Years Later
    • Crafty Adventures
    • Knitting in Passing
    • In my Travels
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu . Find Jessalu at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2:  check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/. FearLESS Living Fund bags available now- click here. 30% of sales go to our FearLESS Living Fund.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks
    • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Stranger Things 2 Socks
    • Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Progress- nearly to toe of first sock
      Ebb & Flow Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Aurealis
    • Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm)
    • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC)
    • Size: C
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal)
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
      Brainstorming   I'd like to knit a balaclava for skiing
    • Convertible Balaclava by Poppy Shop- available on Ravelry, Etsy & Poppy Shop website for $9.50 Canadian (worsted weight yarn, ribbed below nose)
    • Crayon Balaclava by Mia Filisch- available on Ravelry for free. Calls for Aran weight yarn- 3 sizes. would need to gauge swatch and see if I can adjust for lighter yarn.
    • Stripes Ski Mask by Leisure Arts- available on their website for $5.99. See link on Ravelry as well.
      I'm also debating something that goes over ski helmet and maybe a fair isle fingering weight sweater for me!   Some Years Later   Love the set that matches my ski coat.
    • Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher- Ravelry Project Page (DK fair isle)
    • In a Fog Mittens by Allison O'Mahony - Ravelry Project Page
    • Drawn Together cowl by Shana Cohen- Ravelry Project Page
      Crafty Adventures
    • Millie and Hattie wanted to get crafty during their birthday sleepover.
    • We bought some supplies at the Dollar Tree & Millie brought a paper bead making kit I gave her for Christmas.
    • Check out Episode 2 of Millie Makes on the Down Cellar Studio Youtube Channel.
    • For fibery crafts, Millie shared some progress on her Dads hat, Hattie practiced treadling on my spinning wheel and Hattie & I made pompoms. I want to turn mine into a garland.
      Knitting in Passing I met a lovely listener named Emily in an elevator at work!   In My Travels
    • Last weekend, my brother Jeff and 2 of his kids- Riley and Garret, my friend Megg, her daughter Hattie, son Oisin & Oisin's girlfriend Ginger and I all went skiing at Sunday River in Maine.
      KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24
    • Tune in to hear if you won one of our 12 Grand Prizes. I will email winners in about a week, to give you time to tune in.  
    Events   On a Happy Note
    • I took Millie and Hattie to the new Paddington in Peru movie which was really cute. Using Hattie's Shadow Play Book- Wizard of Oz book before bed! Pancakes in the morning!
    • We brought dinner to a friend who has been facing medical challenges (and thankful Dad let us cook at his house when we lost power)!
    • Dinner with my first boss and her partner. They spoiled me rotten and it was so great catching up.
    • Silly braids for skiing!
    • Megg gifted me 3 skeins of alpaca yarn from her trip to the Azores! 50g skeins in white, gray and a peachy/pink! Can't wait to use them.
    • New haircut!
      Quote of the Week   Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening and sometimes they arise from the past. Perhaps it’s the same with people. -JAMES SALTER   ------   Contact Information:      
    28 February 2025, 10:26 pm
  • 50 minutes 9 seconds
    Episode 291: WIPs Galore
    Thank you for tuning in to Episode 291 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast.   This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • From the Armchair
    • Knitting in Passing
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hedgehog
    • Pattern: Hedgehog with a Heart by Marina Chuchkalova
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids worsted acrylic yarn in Chocolate Brown & Soft Gray
    • Hook: C 2.75 mm
    • Ravelry Project Page
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Passed heel on first sock (contrast heel)
      Aurealis
    • Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
    • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC)
    • Size: C
    • Progress: Several inches into body
      Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project
    • Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
      • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
    • Progress: Nearly finished with my 3rd bobbin of fiber
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal)
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
    • Progress: I've done about 14 in 2 weeks.
      Same as It Ever Was Hat
    • Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (Yarnable Box January 2024) in the Dino-Mite colorway
    • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn: aqua, gray and purple.
    • Progress: About 2 inches of straight knitting beyond the crown increases
      Brainstorming
    • I think I'm going to keep the Monsoonee Sweater I started before Christmas (Ravelry Project Page). I could absolutely wear that this winter if I finish it soon.
      • Almost to bottom ribbing. sleeves will be quick
    • I'm debating frogging my Waverly Sweater (Ravelry Project Page). Gauge is a bit tight and its not an enjoyable knit.
    • Emelyn's request for socks based on The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Any ideas for me?
    • Aila still wants colorwork daisy socks that I started but need to rework.
      From the Armchair     Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing
    • Had a lovely fellow knitter say hello on the train, asking if I was going to knit fingers into my project (thinking it was mitts). I told her it was socks, but in general- I agree- knitting fingers is the worst!
      KAL News  
    • Thanks for a very successful and fun 11th season!
    • Tune in to see if you're a January Participation Winner or the winner of our 4th Quarter Challenge hosted by Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details.
    • Grand Prize winners will be announced in the next episode.
      Events   Life in Focus   25 in 2025 List
    1. Donate Blood at least 4 times (1 in January)
    2. Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year (my Christmas gift from him)
    3. Buy new ski boots- DONE
    4. Go camping- scheduled for summer
    5. Kayak 2-5 times- scheduled for summer
    6. Do at least 5 walks with others
    7. Take 2-5 yoga classes (outside of the house)
    8. Do at least 30 lessons in Mondly (had 25 done in 2024)- does not include daily lessons
    9. Spend a day at Raffa Life
    10. Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) doing well. pairing with next one
    11. Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to) (feels similar to artist's way- tapping into your authentic self/creative spirit)
    12. Read at least 60 books- all books count (even poetry etc) - 4 to date
    13. Get at least 2 massages at Oasis
    14. See 2-5 movies in the theater
    15. Knit 2-5 garments for me (WIPs- Aurealis & Monsoonee Sweaters)
    16. Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket
    17. Crochet at least 5 toys (1 hedgehog)
    18. Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan & Feb done)
    19. Have a crafty day with Emelie
    20. Knit a slouchy hat for myself
    21. Try out 3 new to me podcasts
    22. Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara (bringing the tradition back)
    23. Buy a firebox and put important papers inside
    24. Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation
    25. Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes
      On a Happy Note
    • Ice skating with friends.
    • Started rehearsals for Kiss Me Kate- tap dancing! GREAT for my brain.
    • Seeing Millie in Pirates of Penzance
    • Hattie's Surprise Wizard of Oz Party
      • Laura surprised me.
    • Funny Girl with Megg
    • Mom's birthday just passed. Difficult day- but we were together and there was a lot of love and support. My friend Kris sent over a very thoughtful gift for me- including a skein of handdyed yarn in a Somewhere over the Rainbow colorway from Cashmere and Coconut.
      Quote of the Week To invite a person to your house is to take charge of his happiness as long as he be beneath your roof. –Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:      
    15 February 2025, 4:15 pm
  • 58 minutes 34 seconds
    Episode 290: Welcome
    Thank you for tuning in to Episode 290 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Find full show ntoes with photos on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com    This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • From the Armchair
    • In my Travels
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Next month you can find Stitched by JessaLu bags in her online shop, and in person at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2. NETA Spa is a great midwinter weekend gathering for fiber enthusiasts - check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks
    • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Inclinations Cowl
    • Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website.
    • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
    • Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link.
    • My Ravelry Project Page
    • Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. She's filling pre-orders from last year first and then will put new listings up for sale so stay tuned.
      Aurealis
    • Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
    • Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC)
    • Size: C
    • My washed swatch was closer to 17/18 sts over 4 inches instead of the 20 it calls for so I'm knitting a different size to accommodate.
      Stranger Things 2 Socks
    • Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party using Snack Shack Sponsor yarn.
    • About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red.
    • Progress- first sock is done. Second sock is a few stripes from the heel.
      Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project
    • Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S
      • This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise.
    • Progress: Nearly finished with my second bobbin of fiber
      Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US.
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal)
    • I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern.
    • I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch.
    • I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube.
    • I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.
      From the Armchair   One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels   My 12 year old niece, Millie, joined me to do a little recap of our visit to Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA.   The sample we saw in the Plied booth is called Super Serene- available on Ravelry.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24   It had been very cold lately in North America, even in places that are typically pretty warm in the winter (like Florida getting snow!). This has been no problem for pigskin partiers! The cold weather creates the perfect conditions for cozying up and finishing projects!  In the huddle, there has been lots of discussion about what folks can reasonably finish before the end of the party. There was also an interesting discussion about how many WIPs folks can manage at one time. Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of different opinions on that.  Earlier this month, 43 players submitted for points as part of the Wild Card WIP challenge! Head on over to that thread to see pictures of projects that players had let languish or even forgot about--butnow they are finished!     Events   Contest, News & Notes     Thank you to KnittyELF40, Erika, who kindly gifted me her new bundle of patterns- Seasonal Blooms on Ravelry.   Life in Focus   My Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome Verb: to greet hospitably and with courtesy or cordiality Verb: to accept with pleasure the occurrence or presence of Adjective: giving pleasure: received with gladness or delight especially in response to a need (A welcome addition)   Why I need this word:
    • This year will be a year filled with first after Mom's passing on January 1st. I need to welcome in the new year even when it feels hard, and welcome in whatever emotions come up as I make my way through 2025.
    • I've spent much time in the last few years focused on my mom (and I'm so glad I could do that), but now I'll have free time to welcome in new things. I want to be thoughtful about my time, but also open to welcoming in new things that will bring me joy.
    • My mother made everyone feel welcome and at home whether physically in her home or just with her as a person. I strive to make people feel welcome in my presence too and to use that to continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and connection. I hope that this will help me keep alive the many relationships that Mom was able to maintain.
    • I am an introvert by nature and love the prospect of staying hour with hours of myself to plot out- but I know that I am happier and more fulfilled when I stay connected with those I love, so this year when I'm tempted to say "no thanks" I will try, when possible, to instead say "we'll come" a variation on welcome.
      On a Happy Note
    • About 20 people showed up for one of Garret's hockey games that was nearby! Beautiful show of support and a fun night out.
    • I found the jewelry Mom gave me for Christmas! Surprise surprise, it was in a bag of knitting stuff that was brought home and put down cellar.
    • While I missed auditions as we prepped for the funeral, I got a dancing role in Kiss Me Kate with Meg. The show is the last week of April/first weekend in May.
    • Millie came for a 2 night sleepover during MLK weekend. She made us pancakes!
    • Organizing my mom's things. Eme came over and we look through craft supplies for a new project they want to do. I found a few things for me (mostly scissors and crochet hooks) and I purged some.
    • I put away the Christmas tree and put my new plant stand in place! I love it. Dan was going to order me a plant subscription, but instead we'll go together to a local place a few times a year and try to learn a little more about houseplants.
    • Dinner with my cousins at local Mexican restaurant.
    • I received a beautiful package of watercolor supplies in the mail from Rachel! Thank you so much. I can't wait to dive in.
    • I received many cards and notes from several of you. Thank you!!!
    • Millie, Ryan and I ran into listener, Donna, at Russell's. So lovely to see you!
    • Last weekend Riley came for a sleepover Saturday night. On Sunday, we picked up Aila and checked out one of her favorite antique stores and had a lot of fun browsing.
    • Dan invited my Dad, Tom and Oisin for dinner at The Snug.
    • Megg, Hattie and I went to see Peter Pan in Boston.
      Quote of the Week “Departure of a year welcomes so many new memories” ― Munia Khan   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:      
    31 January 2025, 11:00 am
  • 54 minutes 42 seconds
    Episode 289: A Sad Goodbye
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 289 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • From the Armchair
    • Some Years Later
    • Knitting in Passing
    • Crafty Adventures
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Content Note: I start the episode by sharing news that most of you probably already know but in case not, will set the tone for the rest of the episode. After 3 long years battling Stage 4 Lung Cancer- we lost my Mom, Diane, on New Year's Day. I share a bit more of the story in the Life in Focus segment, but there are small moments peppered throughout so if death and loss is a difficult topic for you right now, that's ok. I just wanted to give a heads up. If this isn't the episode for you, we'll catch you in the next one.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wintermint Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Peace & Light Mitts
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway
    • Pattern: Soccer Mitts by Erica Lueder. Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry.
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows
    • Cast on with 56 sts like socks.
    • Gave to Mom for Christmas. She only ended up wearing them a few times but she loved them very much.
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Progress: 1st sock done. 2nd is beyond the heel.
      Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks
    • Yarn: Freckled Whimsy
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Riley knit a lot on these!
    • The 1st sock is beyond the heel.
      From the Armchair The Life Impossible by Matt Haig- Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.     Some Years Later Wearing mostly Mom's handknits because I was there and didn't have all of my own to choose from.
    • I wore some of her socks especially when we ended up sleeping in the family room and it was chilly and I couldn't leave her alone.
    • Mom's blue Camp out fingerless mitts (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2021
    • Mom's Shift Cowl out of my handspun (Ravelry Project Page link)- 2022
    • Mom's Carbeth Cardigan (Ravelry Project Page link) - finished night before Rhinebeck in 2023 (while in Vegas)
      Knitting in Passing
    • Millie loved her lipstick and nail polish amigurumi.
    • Hattie didn't get her Christmas gifts until after Miles' Baptism on 1/12- "be off you boring socks" and threw socks across the room and immediately put them on and was showing them off. It was very dramatic and adorable.
    • Laura sent me a text of her friend Arielle wearing the socks I knit her. You can find the Ravelry Project Page here.
    • Laura and I went back to my house one day to collect some things and Riley asked me to bring ALL THE KNITTING, so I grabbed a ton of stuff. She opened every single project bag and in the end still decided to knit on the Freckled Whimsy advent socks
      Crafty Adventures
    • We printed almost 400 photos for 11 posters for the funeral home. We broke out the scrapbook supplies and tape gun which I can't believe Laura didn't steal because after an initial skepticism she and Jenny were very into it.  Megg, Oisin and Riley were huge helps and had a lot of fun.
    • Megg and Laura searched house for memoriabilia stuff to make 3 displays for funeral home- Red Sox & reselling, Christmas and Wiz of Oz. Incredible. Funeral home did it just as well or even better.
    • Megg made these Sox and Bruins "tickets" on Canva
      KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24
    • Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025
    • Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group
    • Official Rules
    • Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes)
    • Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form
    • Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc.
    • Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com
    • Tune in to see if you won our Quarter 3 Challenge sponsored by FanGirl Fibers.
    • Official Sponsor for Q4: Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details.
    • Tune in to see if you won a December participation prize.
    • Mary's Commentator Updates
      • I just finished a sweater--my first big project of the PSP.  It took me months and it feels like a great accomplishment. Plus it is enough yards to qualify for a blitz!  This got me thinking about blitzes and wondering how the pigskin partiers are doing with blitzes this year. When I just looked, players had already submitted for 202 blitzes this year!  Amazing!  But even more amazing are a handful of what I am calling super-blitzers!  
      • 2 players have already completed 6 blitzes so far this year!  Can you believe it?
      • In addition to these super-blitzers, 3 players have completed 5 blitzes and 3 more have completed 3!  But don't be dismayed if you are a mere mortal like me--The best thing about the PSP is that you can make whatever you want (as much or as little as you have time for).  Wishing you all a very happy new year!
      Life in Focus   Tune in to hear the last of my Mom's story. I also reviewed my word for 2024, Heart, my goals and my 24 for 2024 list.   On a Happy Note
    • Seeing a local production of Pippin and introducing it to Riley.
    • Seeing Hattie in Funky Nutcracker & her winter dance recital. Check out Day 14 of Vlogmas for more.
    • Riley took her first solo drive as a licensed driver, made us breakfast and braided my hair. Later that day, friends surprised my Mom by caroling. Check out this video for more. Oisin got his license the following Saturday. Mom was so proud of both of them.
    • Silly moment putting TJ's gummy mustaches on our faces. Mom even got in on the action resting it on her oxygen tube and giving crazy eyes for a photo.
    • The Christmas eve cling wrap game that my cousin Lea hosted. You can see it at the end of my Vlogmas Day 24 video
    • Fun Christmas morning with G & Z who enjoyed the power wheels Jeep. Doing puzzles with G while Z played the piano.
    • Low key Christmas afternoon at my parents'. At one point Mom got confused and said we were at a wedding so that turned into a running joke all day. My cousin Jenny, mom's Goddaughter, came over for a bit and showed Mom the video that over 40 people sent in clips for. She said it was her fav Christmas gift.
    • Laura, whose timing is impeccable and who was everything I needed during the hardest time.
    • Shopping with friends to find attire for Mom's funeral.
    • Conor led the kids in singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow at mom's services and our friend Michael Hammond led a group singing Seasons of Love to finish the service at the Cemetery. My cousin Rita Marie sang at funeral mass.
    • Folks flew in from 12 states to attend which was lovely but also it got crazy once we realized we had way more people coming than would fit in he luncheon venue we talked to. Dad said it was like the Jerry Lewis telethon w/ everyone making phone calls trying to find a new venue. By the next morning, we found a place that worked, visited and picked out the menu by that night.
    • As ever, this segment is meant to focus on the highlights. Not the lowlights of which there have been many. Grief sucks. Its hard, but we also got 68 beautiful years w/ my Mom- and we lived it up royally in the last 3 since she got sick. We'll always more time but I don't have any regrets and that's something to be truly grateful for.
    • Miles' Baptism. It was a beautiful service with brunch after at Conor & Carly's.
    • Just before Christmas, we gave away $10k in FearLESS Living Fund scholarships to 2 gentlemen the Blind Center of Nevada. Friends attended and sent us videos. Just incredible. I hope it helps to really give them a leg up this year.
      Quote of the Week "There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love."   Washington Irving   ------ Thank you for tuning in.   Contact Information:      
    16 January 2025, 8:40 pm
  • 32 minutes 42 seconds
    Episode 288: Makeup & Mint
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 288 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Cold, Cold Heart Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway
    • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
    • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues
    • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
    • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
      Millie's Christmas Makeup   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wintermint Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Working on both socks. First one is beyond the heel. Second one is ready for the heel.
      Moosonee Sweater
    • Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website.
    • Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon
    • Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm)
    • Pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one of Megg's: Ravelry link).
      103 Hat
    • Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde. $5 Knitting Pattern available on  Ravelry & LoveCrafts
    • Yarn: Malabrigo Rios (worsted) in 845 Cirrus Gray
    • Needles: US 5 & US 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Peace & Light Mitts
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway
    • Pattern: Soccer Mitts by Erica Lueder. Free Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry.
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows
    • Cast on with 56 sts like socks.
      Brainstorming Calendula Christmas Quilt
    • Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova
    • Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose
    • Hook:  G (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24   This week, I wandered over to the end zone dance thread to take a peek at some of the beautiful projects folks have finished in the last month or so.  Lots of players are double-dipping--that is, making projects that count for both the pigskin party and another make along!   KnitsandReads, oneyarn, Sandyrlevin all participated in the Arne & Carlos Christmas Stocking MKAL.  Their finished objects are beautiful! Sandyrlevin even completed two!    foryouandyarn finished an amazing crochet blanket for the Scheepjes Festival of Lights CAL...it is so intricate and with a beautiful rainbow of colors. Definitely go check it out!  https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/726-750#740   michembry finished a project for the indie gift along--the radvent cowl. It is so pretty with nice cheery warm-toned colors.  Perfect for a cold winter's day. https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4327543/751-775#761   Of course, many players are participating in the December Mystery Gnome KAL from PSP-sponsor Imagined Landscapes, but we'll have to wait a bit longer to see those FOs!   Finally, a few players are double-dipping with other KALs for the Q3 colorwork challenge--I think that would actually be a triple-dip--three ways to win prizes for one project!   VTKimmyKim and Cherlynpickering are participating in the "A Very Merry MKAL," which is a mystery colorwork cowl challenge. LauraKnitsPA and tanksoup are participating in the "Step into Christmas MKAL," which is a mystery colorwork socks challenge.   I think all this double and triple dipping is a great motivator to be extra productive during the PSP!   Events   Contest, News & Notes Cancer unit where my mom stayed is always looking for donations of adult hats if you're looking for a place to donate. Reach out to me and I'm happy to coordinate.   Life in Focus     24 for 2024 list updates
    • Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy DONE
    • Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 53 as of 12/11
    • Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun- Dan's citrus hat
    • Knit/crochet myself a new sweater Silverlining
      On a Happy Note
    • Haircut & color with Erika
    • Visiting with Julie and Chris who came to visit from Ohio
    • 80 min massage and running into my trainer from my former gym
    • Visiting with my cousins- Joanie, Nancy, Paul, Colleen and Erin
    • House clean out with Aila and Ois
    • Savers with Riley and Aila.
    • Hattie in Frozen Jr- Patrons, check out your feed for a private video of all of Hattie's highlights in the show.
    • Productive and successful software integration.
      Quote of the Week   It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive... It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away. -Oriah, The Invitation   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:      
    15 December 2024, 12:45 pm
  • 38 minutes 40 seconds
    Episode 287: Peace & Light
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 287 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  
    • Life in Focus
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Knitting in Passing
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Irocknits Designs, Mandi's Makings and Stitched by Jessalu   Life in Focus Join in to hear the latest updates about my Mom's cancer journey   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Owen's Christmas Stocking   Peace & Light Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows- Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
    • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues
    • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
    • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
      Cold, Cold Heart Socks  
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway
    • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Bee Stacking Toy
    • Pattern: Bee Stacking Toy by Elisa Sartori. $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy
    • Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Black & Sunsoaked (yellow)
    • Hook: H (5.0 mm)
      Wintermint Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Moosonee Sweater
    • Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website.
    • Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon
    • Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm)
    • Pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one of Megg's: Ravelry link).
      Knitting in Passing
    • Knitting in Ambulance with Mom. Nicole, EMT, learned to crochet a year ago and showed me all sorts of photos of the blankets and sweaters she's made!
    • When we got home, Megg was there hanging out with Dan and Laura getting things ready for Mom to come home. She was tinking part of Miles' Christmas stocking because she messed up letter. Then Riley wanted to learn colorwork, so Megg was reading the chart and Riley was knitting. Win win!
    • Megg joined our last Patreon Zoom. She was working on crafts for upcoming Frozen Jr which she's dir/choreo. with some help from Dan- and reworking another colorwork chart for a stocking.  Riley joined for a bit too which was fun!
      • Nicole sent Riley an advent! We are SOOO grateful. Thanks again!
      KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24   This month, pigskin partiers have been getting really creative with buttons, thanks to our quarter 2 challenge sponsored by twin mountain handcrafts.  I've seen lots of different varieties of ponytail/messy bun hats.  Our umpire socalknitgirl, was the first to post one of these in the Q2 thread and it looks great!  You can also check out some other examples by skymama09, fldhckygrl,  stitchintime82, and Aliceortega   Cowls have been another popular option.  A few people have made the supine cowl. Check out the finished projects by hawkeyegirl3, ronnale, and jeanscully. I always think it is fun to see how different a pattern can look when worked up in different color combinations.  Speaking of cowls,  kikukat's deco fan cowl is absolutely beautiful!  What a cool pattern and her color choices were spot on!   Players thought of a lot of other creative ways to use buttons this month!  I've seen two emotional support chickens so far with button embellishments (kimbuktu7 and heelsknitter). scitchr made an adorable Santa Clause Doll (with removable clothes! impressive!).  And  lmecoll and ladida2u embellished their gnomes with buttons!   I encourage you all to head on over to the Quarter 2 thread to check out these amazing finished objects along with many others!   Events  
    • Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: January 19 & March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA
    • New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston
    • I'm going to plan to record at least some Vlogmas videos, depending on how the next few weeks go. Any requests of things you want to see?
      On a Happy Note
    • Megg and I went to see a local production of Cabaret.
    • Laura flew in to visit!
    • We saw Oisin in his high school's production of Hadestown. He was fantastic! Before the show, Laura and I picked up Millie and met Megg Hattie and Eme for dinner at the Cottage.
    • Millie slept over and made us pancakes for breakfast.
    • We hit a local craft fair that's become a tradition for us. Liz joined us too. I bought some beautiful pottery- a mug, 2 bowls and a planter.
    • I've been wearing my Silverlining sweater non-stop! I love that it matches earrings Eme made me.
    • Thanksgiving at my cousin Susan's.
    • Funny story- Mom wanting to get the kids ready in the middle of the night. She just needed toilet paper and wall paper!
    • So grateful for Laura coming and just being here to support me. I have some great friends, so blessed but she's defintely one of the best.
      Quote of the Week   There are unheralded tipping points, a certain number of times that we will unlock the front door of an apartment. At some point you were closer to the last time than you were to the first time, and you didn’t even know it. You didn’t know that each time you passed the threshold you were saying good-bye. –COLSON WHITEHEAD   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    30 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 59 minutes 23 seconds
    Episode 286: An Actual Knitting Emergency
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 286 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • From the Armchair
    • Knitting in Passing
    • In My Travels
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fangirl Fibers, Love in Stitches &  Woolen Women Fibers   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Silverlining Sweater
    • Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry
    • Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Size B: 12 inches underarm to body. 40 inches around. I thought I was getting 18 sts/4 inches but I got 19, so it is 40 inches not 42 inches around.
    • I was thrilled to meet Peggy from Junction Fiber Mill at Fiber Festival of New England. They shared a clip of my video on their podcast which you can find here.
      Welcome to Litchfield Hat
    • Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page)- Into the Whirled; 2 braids Texel & BFL Tussah Silk in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway + Traveler colorway on Cheviot base to make a 3 ply yarn
    • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Vegas Baby Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink
      Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes.
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Peace & Light Socks
    • Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows
      Dirty Crayon Box Socks
    • Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
    • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues
    • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
    • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
      Cold, Cold Heart Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway
    • Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
      From the Armchair   Watching:   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing   I shared stories of how Dan bailed me out of a knitting emergency and Riley sent me photos of her progress on her Riley Rose Cowl- a free pattern by me- available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts   In My Travels Riley & I attended Fiber Festival of New England- check out our vlog video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Met up with Michelle (chellescraps) and her friends in the morning. Great to see Lisa- who met us at Rhinebeck after following mom's Crispina Scrapbox challenge project! Find a photo of mom in that outfit in this Instagram post. It was great to see Jen, Carlos, Aurora and Zelda around lunch time,vAmy from Ross Farm & Jess from Stitched by Jessalu .     KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24   Commentator Update We are 10 weeks into the NFL season (and our knit a long) so I thought it would be fun to take a look at the scoreboard to see if any players had completed 10 or more projects...that is, averaging at least one project per week.  I was stunned.  Over 35 players have completed 10 or more projects!   Leading the way is player eyenowhour who has completed 27 projects--including 5 shawls and 12 baby garments!  Impressive!   But don't be dismayed if you can't imagine being as productive as eyenowhour! The great thing about the PSP is you can craft as much or as little as you want and still have a chance to win!   Events   Contest, News & Notes   My friend Linda is looking for donations of warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside the First Church in Woburn, MA. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!   I also talked about Socks for Sam. Check out their website. You can raise awareness for VWM by knitting a sock using #SocksForSam and tagging @Knitsocksforsam.    Life in Focus I shared some updates about Mom's new cancer treatments and recent hospital stays.   On a Happy Note
    • I'm finding it very hard to be happy after the US election, but I try hard to look for these happy notes. As Gretchen Rubin reminded us on a recent episode of the Happier Podcast it is not selfish or unimportant to look for ways to be happy even when and especially when life feels really hard. When we are happier, we can do more to assert our values in the world and do hard things, so I started this segment with that reminder.
    • Knitting on Hattie's socks and Sue's Instagram live on the day after the election helped me through a very difficult day.
    • Halloween!
    • Leaning into connecting with my people- whether that's work, friends, family, knitting community. Its small but its powerful.
    • During Mom's first infusion, we played UNO. Mom slaughtered us! Dad got up and jokingly said he was going to smother her with a pillow before she could beat us any further and she was laughing so hard she almost offed herself! That was a bit of levity we all needed that night.
    • We watched G&Z while their parents went out for their anniversary and again on Veteran's Day.
    • Date night with Dan between Mom's treatments. I had a delicious pumpkin beer- Night Shift Pumpkin Piescraper Pumpkin Pie Ale.
    • I went to see & Juliet with Megg, Terri, Liz and Riley. Then I had a sleepover at my brothers where Riley, Millie and I inadvertently had a matching PJs night.
      Quote of the Week   “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” ― G.K. Chesterton   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    15 November 2024, 6:48 pm
  • 46 minutes 25 seconds
    Episode 285: Silverlining
      Thank you for tuning in to Episode 285 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  
    • Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
    • Brainstorming
    • From the Armchair
    • Crafty Adventures
    • KAL News
    • Events
    • Contest, News & Notes
    • Life in Focus
    • On a Happy Note
    • Quote of the Week
      Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Cniotáil Láimhe Designs on Ravelry, Area 51 Fibres, Stitched by Jessalu & Paper Daisy Creations on Ravelry.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Musselburgh
    • Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website)
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway
    • Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Note- the pattern just got some updates
    • About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn.
      On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Owen's Christmas Stocking   Vegas Baby Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Progress: cast on both socks using 2 50g cakes. Sock 2 has a heel. Sock 2 is almost ready for a heel
    • About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink
      Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)
    • Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway
    • Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes. The first sock is finished. The second sock is beyond the heel.
      Hattie’s Scrappy Helical Socks
    • Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues
    • Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
    • Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )
    • US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff.
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.
    • I measured Hattie's foot recently when she tried on this WIP. I need a 7-7.5 inch foot. Toe will be 12 rounds, which is about an inch of knitting, so Ii knit a little more than 6 inches before starting the toe.
    • Progress: First sock finished.
      Better Waverly Cardigan
    • Pattern: Better Waverly by Taylor E Owen. $8 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry.
    • Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Brown Heather Colorway
    • Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • About the Pattern: I saw Taylor talk about this pattern in her recent YouTube Video.
    • Progress: Still working on the raglan increases
      Silverlining Sweater
    • Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry
    • Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway
    • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)
    • Ravelry Project Page
    • Size B (because working with fabric that has about 18 inches over 4 inches)
    • Progress: several inches into the body (put on hold) and about half way through the first sleeve.
      Brainstorming   From the Armchair   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Crafty Adventures
    • Dan went to a Better Off Dead movie party. I helped him make pig ears to sew onto a chef's hat (he did the sewing).
    • He also made slime (with raisins because "you like raisins') and lots of other props from the movie.
      KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24   Events     Contest, News & Notes Check out this article if you're an Apple user who plans to become a member of any new Patreon communities to avoid this 30% fee to Apple. You can check out my Patreon page here.   Life in Focus I gave a quick update on Mom who will be starting a new cancer treatment on 11/1/24. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, please.   On a Happy Note
    • Outing with Mom to get eyelash extensions & Savers.
    • Laura's visit: Matching PJs- Cuddl Duds Coffee PJs from Kohls, My first trip to Costco!
      • Grand Opening of Dance Legacy Arts + Hattie preview of Frozen Jr. Movies (Substance= terrible) + dinner with Megg (lovely)
    • Ryan and Nicki visit with Mom, Dad and me after Rhinebeck & they brought me a skein of yarn!
    • 2 massages in 1 week (24 for 2024 list)
    • Dan and I went to vote together last Saturday morning, then I headed over to a local Sample Sale, knitting on my Silverlining sweater while I waited and listening to others local gossip. I got a ton of Christmas shopping done, then I met up with my mom's friends Patrick and Szymon in from Arizona. Mom, our friend Sharon (in from CT) and our cousin Linda (who I just found out listens- HI), met us for lunch!  Liz came over and we watched Little Women (2019 version) which I hadn't seen and was on our to watch list. (3 of 5 movies for my 24 in 2024 list).
    • I visited my parents on Sunday. Millie and Garret were there. We took a walk to neighborhood nearby for Mom's PT for the day.
    • Group text with friends who went to VT- about our sweaters and other adjacent things. Lots of fun and motivation.
    • Monday night dinner with my parents, Patrick and Szymon.
    • Early morning walk to local State park. beautiful sunrise and golden leaves around the reservoir. Need to do this more often.
      Quote of the Week It doesn’t matter how strong your opinions are. If you don’t use your power for positive change, you are indeed part of the problem. -Coretta Scott King   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:  
    31 October 2024, 4:02 pm
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