A Yarn Story

In this special episode of A Yarn Story, Carmen sits down with Lisa, co-owner of Dublin’s beloved yarn shop, This is Knit. From her earliest days of knitting as a schoolgirl in Ireland to co-founding a thriving family-run business, Lisa shares her passion for natural fibres, community building and the magic of making.

Together, they delve into Lisa’s journey, from backpacking in New Zealand (and rediscovering her love for knitting) to building This is Knit with her mum, sister and a talented team. Plus, discover knitting tips, inspiring stories of creativity and why Lisa thinks everyone should invest in the best yarn they can afford.

This episode is packed with insights for knitters of all levels, a few laughs and a whole lot of yarn love! Stick around for listener Q&A and a sneak peek of Lisa’s exciting projects.

💡 Highlights:

• Rediscovering knitting in a New Zealand hostel.
• The story behind This is Knit.
• Favourite patterns, from baby hats to intricate shawls.
• Practical tips for seaming, colorwork, and more!
• How to support your local yarn shop (beyond just shopping).

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• This is Knit yarns and patterns
• Pacific Knit Company’s doodle motifs
• Andrea Mowry’s timeless sweater and shawl patterns

Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just casting on your first project, this episode will leave you inspired. Don’t forget to tune in for Part 2, where Lisa dives deeper into 18 years of running a yarn business!

Chapter Markers:
0:00 – Introduction: Meet Lisa from This is Knit.
1:25 – What We’re Wearing and Knitting: Townhouse Yarns & SoSue Knits.
5:37 – Lisa’s Knitting Journey: From Ireland to New Zealand and back.
15:57 – Building This is Knit: From market stalls to a community hub.
27:45 – Favourite Projects and Patterns: Wedding shawls, doodle cowls, and more.
35:20 – Tips for Supporting Local Yarn Shops.
42:00 – Listener Q&A: Knitting in the round vs. flat, seaming, and more.
44:57 – Wrap-Up: What’s next in Part 2!

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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

Get ready for a delightful blend of knitting inspiration, yarn know-how, and unexpected trivia! In this episode of A Yarn Story, Carmen and Kayleigh dive into their latest projects, from sweaters to cowls and share their favourite yarn picks including Aran, DK and Worsted weights.

You’ll laugh along as they discuss quirky cat antics, reveal the history behind Rhode Island’s "coffee milk," and tackle listener questions like, “What’s with all these yarn weights?” Whether you're a seasoned knitter or just yarn-curious, this episode has something for everyone.

Plus, hear updates on Kayleigh’s PhD journey and festive plans, all while discovering tips for yarn substitutions and ideas for next year’s projects. Perfect for cosying up with your own knitting needles, this chat feels like catching up with your craftiest friends.

✨ Highlights include:

• Top knitting tips and project ideas.
• How to choose the perfect yarn weight for your next project.
• Fun facts about Rhode Island's history and traditions.
• Sneak peeks into upcoming collections and collaborations.

Hit play, grab a cup of tea (or coffee milk!), and join the fun.

✨ Chapters:

• 0:00 - Welcome & What’s on Our Needles
• 10:15 - Yarn Weights Demystified: DK, Worsted, & More
• 22:30 - Rhode Island Trivia: Coffee Milk & History
• 35:00 - Q&A: How to Choose the Perfect Yarn
• 50:00 - Festive Knitting Plans & PhD Updates

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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 Podcast, Carmen continues her conversation with Nu, founder of Hide & Hammer, exploring the evolution of her small business from a one-person operation to a team of four.

Whether you’re looking for knitting bag inspiration or are curious about the challenges of running a small business in the crafting world, this episode is packed with insights, humour and tips for makers who love thoughtful design. If you’re passionate about knitting, crocheting or handmade goods, this is a must-listen!

Chapters
0:12 - Meet the Team: Behind the Scenes at Hide & Hammer
2:29 - Creating "Life-Proof" Bags for Knitters and Makers
7:10 - The Story of the Washable O3 Bag
13:27 - Sustainability Philosophy: Eco-Friendly Materials & Practices
20:20 - Leather Insights: Why Vegetable-Tanned Leather Matters
31:14 - The Craft of Hand-Stitched Leather Goods
37:15 - Challenges of Small-Scale Manufacturing for Crafters
44:50 - Product Showcase: Bridles, Bags, and Clever Designs
54:36 - Closing Thoughts: Supporting Small Businesses Like Hide & Hammer

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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 

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.

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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, 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

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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!

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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

Subscribe For Updates
🔔 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