A Yarn Story

Welcome to this delightful episode of the A Yarn Story podcast! Join Carmen and her dear friend Nu, the creative mind behind Hide and Hammer, for a cozy chat in the heart of the Cotswolds.

This episode is perfect for knitters, crocheters and crafters who love celebrating the art of handmade. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just rediscovering your passion, there’s something here for everyone.

Topics covered
💜 The origins of Hide and Hammer and how Nu turned her love for sewing, knitting and crafting into a thriving small business.
💜 Fond memories of learning to knit and crochet with family and friends.
💜 The importance of using quality yarn, natural fibers, and thoughtfully designed knitting tools.
💜 Their favorite knitting projects, tips for choosing colors, and why handmade items bring so much joy.

Chapters
00:00:00 - Welcome & Introduction
00:02:00 - What is Hide and Hammer? Nu shares the story behind her business.
00:09:00 - Nostalgic Crafting Stories: Growing up with knitting, sewing, and creativity.
00:19:00 - The Importance of Quality Materials: Natural fibers and knitting tools.
00:29:00 - Knitting for Yourself vs. Trends: Choosing joy in projects.
00:37:00 - Current Projects & WIPs: Rhinebeck sweaters and creative ideas.
00:47:00 - Innovative Crafting Tools: Using i-cord makers and drills for efficiency.
00:54:00 - Crochet Shoes & Unique Projects: Nu’s intricate crochet creations.
00:57:30 - Closing & Preview of Part 2: A teaser for Hide and Hammer’s tools and bags.

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#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
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Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

In this episode of A Yarn Story, hosts Carmen and Susan share highlights from their trip to the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival, a celebrated event for knitters and fiber artists.

The episode begins with Susan's highlights including a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and the World Trade Center Memorial, immersing themselves in the autumnal hues that inspire their knitting color palettes.

They recount the scenic drive to Rhinebeck, with stops at charming farm stands for seasonal treats like fresh cider and homemade pie. At the festival, Carmen and Susan connect with friends and vendors, showcase their latest knitwear and dive into the vibrant yarn shopping experience. Discover their exclusive yarn finds, knitting patterns and plans for new projects like the “Poos Cafe” and “Voyager” sweater.

This episode is perfect for yarn enthusiasts looking for knitting inspiration, festival highlights, and insights into must-have materials for fall and winter knitting projects. Tune in to hear about their favorite fall knits, cozy fashion choices, and a sneak peek of upcoming projects. Don’t miss their tips for staying inspired throughout the knitting season!

Enjoy!

Chapters
00:00:00 - Welcome & Rhinebeck Introduction
00:02:28 - What we're wearing
00:05:00 - New York City highlights and road-tripping to Rhinebeck
00:15:00 - Catching up with friends
00:22:23 - What we bought at Rhinebeck
00:32:22 - Rhinebeck Meet-ups & Community
00:37:00 - Sunday at Jill Draper Makes Stuff
00:41:42 - What We’re Knitting Now
00:53:07 - Closing & What’s Next

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🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------
Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

In this episode of A Yarn Story, we continue our deep dive into the world of handcrafted stationery and letterpress printing with our special guest, Athena of Meticulous Ink. Learn the secrets behind artisan printmaking, how to design for luxury stationery brands, and the importance of sustainable materials in the world of fine paper products.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction to Meticulous Ink
2:57 - Journey into Printmaking
6:09 - Starting Meticulous Ink
12:14 - Growing Pains and Early Setbacks
20:49 - Collaborations and Wholesale
27:58 - Expanding the Shop and Print Operations
32:01 - Television Features and Celebrity Crafting
35:05 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Show Notes
We explore the craftsmanship that goes into every piece, from bespoke invitations to personalized business cards, and discuss the growing demand for eco-friendly printing solutions.

If you're a lover of unique stationery, passionate about small business entrepreneurship, or looking for insights into the luxury paper goods industry, this episode is packed with expert knowledge and insider tips. Don't miss out on this fascinating continuation of our series on the art of letterpress and the creative journey behind Meticulous Ink.

Enjoy!

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🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

#knittingpodcast #entrepreneur #newbusiness #businesspodcast #knitting #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
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📌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayarnstory/
📹 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ayarnstory

In this episode of A Yarn Story Podcast, Carmen interviews her friend Athena, the owner of Meticulous Ink, a fine stationery and letterpress print shop.

Chapters
0:00:00 - Introduction & Meet Athena
0:01:53 - The Art of Making Things
0:04:44 - Knitting Origins & Project Dilemmas
0:09:55 - Crafting Materials and Choices
0:13:50 - The Joy of Starting New Projects
0:17:19 - Favourite Knitting Techniques
0:25:09 - WIPs (Works in Progress) & Group Projects
0:35:56 - Wrap Up & Teaser for Part 2

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🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

Show Notes
In this episode, they discuss Athena's journey in the stationery business, which she began in 2010 in Bath. Athena shares her passion for creating bespoke wedding invitations, personal stationery and greeting cards using vintage presses, as well as how her shop also offers workshops.

Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the craftsmanship and engineering involved in her work, as well as Athena’s love for making things, not just with paper but also with knitting, crochet, and various crafts. Athena learned to knit as a child and notes her tendency to start projects that sometimes remain unfinished due to practical constraints, like size!

As they dive into knitting techniques, Athena and Carmen exchange insights on color choices, yarn selection and patterns. They highlight the process of creating intricate knitted items, from color-block scarves to more complex designs like sweaters with colorwork and lace. The conversation wraps up with Athena sharing her knitting inspirations, her passion for crafting, and a teaser for the next episode, where they’ll focus more on Athena’s business and creative endeavors.

Enjoy!

#knittingpodcast  #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
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Welcome to Episode 1 of Season 4! In this episode, hosts Carmen and Susan kick off the new season with a fresh format, announcing exciting new co-hosts and take a deep dive into their latest knitting adventures.

They share highlights from their visit to the Flock Yarn Show where they met fellow knitters, discovered new yarns and sold out of fan-favorite Walcot Yarns colours. The duo also takes listeners on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Spincycle Mill in Bellingham, exploring the fascinating process behind some of their favorite yarns. Plus, they unveil plans for an upcoming knit-along featuring patterns by Anne Wetzel and discuss their personal knitting projects for the season.

Grab your needles and yarn and join us for an episode packed with inspiration, yarn hauls and creative excitement!

Subscribe for future episodes
🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow.

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction and Season 4 Preview
1:03 - Special Guest Appearance and New Format Discussion
2:26 - Knitting Projects, What We're Wearing and Personal Updates
8:02 - Flock Yarn Show Recap: Highlights and Experiences
17:01 - Visiting Spin Cycle Mill: Behind-the-Scenes Tour
32:23 - Knitting Projects and Yarn Hauls
45:37 - Focus on the Jo Sweater Project
54:01 - The Rubinia Light Project: Challenges and Progress
1:03:19 - Announcing the Anne Wetzel Knit-Along
1:04:38 - Wrapping Up and Season 4 Teasers

Enjoy!

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------
Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

This special episode comes to you from Redmond, Oregon where I - Carmen, owner of A Yarn Story - host my mother, Gisela, for a special in-person conversation.

We discuss our shared passion for knitting and crafting, diving into Mom's history with sewing and knitting that began in her childhood in Germany. Mom recounts her journey from teaching sewing in Colorado to managing a store and eventually creating patterns and working on high-profile projects for fashion magazines in New York.

I loved exploring Mom's innovative approaches to knitting and her love for combining yarns (which have certainly influenced my philosophies) on selecting knitting projects. We take a look through a collection of Mom's beautiful handmade sweaters and chat about the importance of community and creativity in crafting.

We wrap up the episode with talk about upcoming events at A Yarn Story, including our luxury knitting retreat in Bath, England (where Mom will join as a special guest!)

Subscribe for future episodes
🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :)

Chapters
00:00:00 - 00:00:41 - Introduction
00:00:41 - 00:05:03 - Gisela's Crafting Journey
00:05:04 - 00:09:01 - From Germany to the US
00:09:02 - 00:18:14 - Stretch & Sew Career
00:18:15 - 00:24:51 - Glamorous Travels & Projects
00:24:52 - 00:29:42 - Knitting & Community Connection
00:29:43 - 00:44:20 - Gisela's Sweater Showcase
00:44:21 - 00:48:14 - Current Projects & Future Plans
00:48:15 - 00:53:07 - Closing Remarks

Enjoy!

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------
Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

Welcome to the final episode of Season 3. Honestly, where does the time go?! In this season finale, Carmen and Kayleigh share their FOs, what they're both currently knitting and Carmen has an exciting new project on the needles. We finish by answering your questions in the Q&A segment.

Thank you so much for tuning in this Season. We're taking a break for a few weeks while planning for Season 4, so do subscribe and share this podcast with your knitting friends - it really helps us grow the show!

Subscribe for future episodes
🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

Chapters
00:01:04 - Cat chat - meet Kayleigh's cats!
00:05:14 - Wine segment - a lovely white wine from Wolf Wines
00:09:05 - Carmen's FO, the Starfall beret by Rastus Hsu
00:16:15 - What Kayleigh is knitting - the Field Sweater by Helga Isager
00:20:42 - What Carmen is knitting - Bella Blocking by Anne Ventzel
00:23:04 - Carmen's tempting new project: The Djo Sweater by Sophie Ochera
00:28:49 - Q&A Segment:

1. What are the best yarn combos for the Andrea Mowry's new Framed sweater?
2. What's currently in your knitting / notions bag?
3. Have you thought about coming to the US and hosting a knitting retreat?

Enjoy!

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------
Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 7 of A Yarn Story Podcast (time flies!). This week, Carmen and Kayleigh delve into their latest knitting projects, share some personal stories and review a new wine.

They begin by catching up on life events, including recent bouts of illness and how it affected their knitting time. Carmen talks about her current project, the Olive Top, and details about the silk yarn she used. Kayleigh discusses her progress on the Bella Blocking project, sharing tips on knitting straps and handling I-cord. They then chat about the humid weather and how it impacts their choice of knitwear.

Kayleigh reveals details about her upcoming wedding, including her handmade wedding invitations and plans for a knitted wedding shawl before they share what they've been working on and upcoming projects (and the gorgeous Hide & Hammer Tote Bag and Nesting Bags!).

They wrap up with a Q&A segment where they share some super-useful advice on how to get your tension right!

Subscribe for future episodes
🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

Chapters
(0:00 - 0:25) Intro and Welcome
(0:27 - 7:11) Knitting Projects Discussion
(4:56 - 7:11) Weather and Knitwear
(7:11 - 14:59) Wine Tasting Segment
(14:59 - 31:40) Personal Stories and Wedding Planning
(31:40 - 35:47) Taylor Swift Concert and Creative Ideas
(35:47 - 37:52) Knitting Tips and Techniques
(37:52 - 47:31) New Projects and Yarn Selection
(47:31 - 1:03:28) Product Reviews
(1:03:29 - 1:08:32) Lessons In Knitting - Colorwork Tips
(1:08:33 - 1:22:46) Q&A Segment. We answer:

• How do you feel when you've seen knitting in movies and TV shows?
• Do you ever have problems getting your tension right?

Enjoy!

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------

Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

Carmen is joined by Susan this week for the latest instalment of A Yarn Story as they dive into the bustling life of the shop during our annual sale. Hear our top tips for knitting in hot weather, the secrets behind running a successful yarn shop and our latest summer knitting projects.

Highlights

• First day of the sale: Busy day anecdotes and a well-deserved glass of wine
• Summer knitting: Carmen and Susan's new projects and tips for hot weather knits
• Behind the scenes: The story and strategy behind our annual inventory sale
• Yarn shop dynamics: Seasonal yarn collections and the impact of fast fashion trends
• Future projects: Exciting plans for upcoming trips to Seattle and Portland
• Yarn combinations: Exploring the latest color trends with Spincycle Next Level and Walcot Yarns Origin
• Finished projects: Susan's oversized Sunday cardigan with Fluff and Origin yarns
• Upcoming projects: The Robinia Light sweater and more inspiring knitting ideas

Subscribe for future episodes
🔔 Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and SHARE this episode for more knitting inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories from our fibre-filled world. It really helps the channel grow :).

Chapters
0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - First Day of the Sale
5:00 - Summer Knitting Projects
10:00 - Behind the Scenes of the Annual Inventory Sale
15:00 - Yarn Shop Dynamics and Fast Fashion
20:00 - Future Knitting Projects
25:00 - Exploring Yarn Combinations
30:00 - Showcasing Finished Projects
35:00 - Upcoming Ventures and New Ideas

#knittingpodcast #summerknitting #knittingtips #knittinginspiration #knittingpodcast #knitting #howtoknit #knittingtutorial
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------

Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com

In this episode, hosts Carmen and Beverley delve into their knitting projects and personal anecdotes. Carmen showcases the CoCo vest by Bana Kavanagh, while Beverley, the newest team member, dons the Bella Blocking by Anne Ventzel (in Isager Tweed and Fluff). See the whole AYS Team wearing this sweater.

As we pour a Pinot Blanc Chardonay courtesey of the wonderful Wolf Wine, Beverley shares her journey from Oxford to Bath and her dream job at Yarn Story. They discuss their knitting origins, Beverley's colorful childhood skirts, and the rekindling of her passion for knitting during the pandemic.

We also share more details about the uber-exciting Bath Luxury Knitting Retreat at the Royal Crescent Hotel, featuring renowned knitwear designer Erika Knight and other special guests. Don't miss out!

New Yarn
We share the gorgeous new colours (which are nearly a year in the making, believe it or not!) for Walcot Yarns Opus: Key Lime Pie and Lavender Haze) and new shades from Spincycles Yarn Dyed in the Wool.

We round things out on a slightly different note with a lighthearted hand-stretch routine inspired by a young fan, Eve!
-----------------------------------
Ask us anything!
Click here to submit a question for the podcast
-----------------------------------

Get In Touch

Social Media: Instagram | TikTok
Website: www.ayarnstory.co.uk
Email: [email protected]

Visit us:
A Yarn Story,
128 Walcot Street,
Bath,
BA1 5BG
+44 (0)1225 429239
-----------------------------------
Huddle Podcasting Ltd

This episode was produced by Huddle Podcasting Ltd. Learn how you can harness the power of podcasts to grow your business at www.huddlepodcasting.com