Actually Knitting

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Rainbow Vanilla Socks in White Birch Fiber Arts

I'm using the OMG Heel pattern by Megan Williams

Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli

Yarn is Miss Babs Yowza in Oyster

Knits In Rehearsal

Solaris by Melanie Berg with my Pal Kal Mini Kit from One Twisted Tree.

Zigzagular Socks by Susie White

Triple Threat PalKal Project here with 3 podcasts represented:

Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

Twist Fiber Studio and the Twisted Stitcher Podcast

The Fat Squirrel Speaks

Here's the Ysolda Tutorial on cabling without a cable needle.

The Bag was a gift from Sarah Shoo of the Cultivate and Create podcast.

Vanilla Socks with Scrumptious Purl Self-Striping Yarn.

Effortless Cardigan by Hannah Fettig is getting a little sweater surgery, I'm adding length to the sleeves and this will be a huge amount of yardage for StashDash.

This episode of Actually Knitting is brought to you by The Sock Ruler.

"The Sock Ruler is an innovative measuring tool for sock knitters. Whether the sock is knit toe up or cuff down the ruler works equally well. It is constructed of a heavy duty, yet flexible plastic and measures from the inside of the sock, allowing the sock to lie flat and ensure accurate measurements."

Visit our website, www.sockruler.com, for more information and don't forget to use coupon code "palkal2016" for 25% off of a regular sock ruler from now until September 15th.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

PalKal2016 is underway!

Rules:

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag or stitch marker by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it's a finished product.

2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!

3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes are listed in the appropriate threads and will be listed on the podcast as well.

4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.

5. Enter as many projects as you like! There is no minimum yardage requirement or limit to the projects you can enter.

6. If you use more than one podcaster product/design/bag/etc on one project, you may create multiple entries for that project. For example: Knit the Zigzagular Socks by prairiegirlsusie using yarn by Oh! Loops and use a project bag by thefatsquirrel, you can enter that project into the FO thread 3 separate times, just link to each podcaster seperately in each post.

7. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can't just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way). The same applies for stitch markers.

8. Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, 2016.

9. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.

10. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie! Please support as many different podcasts as you can!

11. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!

12. Use the tag PALKAL2016 here on Ravelry and #palkal2016 on Instagram.

13. Feel free to double, triple, quadruple dip!

Today I will highlight our Cameo Sponsors who are donating prizes for the KAL. For more information, check out the threads on Ravelry in the Actually Knitting Podcast Group.

Jenn Sheelan Designs and Podcast

Lilliput Yarn

One Twisted Tree/Prairie Girl Danie of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

The Relentless Knitting Podcast

The Twisted Stitches Podcast

Unwind Yarn Company/Dana from the Just One More Row Podcast

I am also highlighting the prizes being offered by these Top Billing Sponsors. These sponsors have donated prizes as well as coupon codes. More information about all of this can be found in the threads on the Ravelry group, but today we will focus on the prizes.

Ancient Threads Farm Etsy Shop and Website/Podcast

A skein of yarn, winner's choice.

Ann of the Carolina Fiber Girls

Copy of the Fletcher's Falling Leaves Sock Pattern

Brenda Castiel Designs

3 Patterns of winners' choice

Daniela Richardson from Caffeinated Knitting

5 Patterns from her Ravelry Store.

Janis Ficker/ of the Carolina Fiber Girls

Copy of her 10 Day Sweater Pattern

C.C. Almon from the Geeky Girls Knit Podcast

Copy of her ebook, Coffee with C.C.

Jennifer Lassonde of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast

Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Store

Knitting Daddy Greg of the Unraveling Podcast

2 copies of his Scrappy Sock Yarn Preemie Hat

Mary of the Kino Knits Podcast

Copy of her Adrenaline Junkie Sock Pattern

Kristine Beeson of the Yarnings Podcast

Winner's Choice of pattern from her Ravelry Store

Paula of the Knitting Pipeline Podcast

5 patterns from her Ravelry store and one winner will receive a shawl quantity of yarn from Quince

and Co.

Sarah Shoo of Cultivate and Create Podcast

3 patterns from her Ravelry Shop

Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Shop

Ashley of Twist Fiber Studio and the Twisted Stitcher Podcast

Project bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop

Zombody Knits

A project bag from her Etsy Shop

Jan Hamby of the Twinset Designs Podcast

A Noste-Demi and Noste-Mini

Please check out the threads on Ravelry for photos and more information and remember that all of the Top Billing Sponsors have provided coupon codes as well, which you can also find in the Ravelry group.

World Wide Knit in Public Day

I had a great time at World Wide Knit in Public Day this year. I got to see old friend and meet some new ones, and of course, I bought some yarn! I couldn't help myself!!

Lollipop Yarn has a new line of yarn and it's delicious!

I also purchased a skein of yarn from Spun Right Round at the LYS Warm and Fuzzy in Cary, NC.

My next yarnie event will be Rhinebeck in October!

Podcast Premiere

Little Yellow Uke Podcast

Little Yellow Uke on Etsy

Daizie Knits Podcast

Daizie Knits on Etsy

This Episode is brought to you by Fiber to Fabric Magic, makers of the wildly popular, & exclusive, Needle Keeper. This innovative tool was created by Claudia, a knitter, and her engineer husband, to protect delicate knitting needles from damage while on a project in your knitting bag. Claudia had broken several pair of 00 wooden sock needles by being jostled around in her knitting bag and was desperate to find a way to protect her delicate, and expensive circulars. That was the Needle Keeper's original intention, but...it has turned out the Needle Keeper is perfect for keeping your live stitches from falling off the needle, and for protecting the joints (the needle to cable area). Extremely lightweight, practically indestructible, you can shove everything in your knitting bag and never worry. They make reaching into your bag and grabbing your project worry free, no dropped stitches!

They come in 12 beautiful, bright colors, which makes them easy to see deep in your bag! Buy a different color for each project, contrasting against the current yarn color, or color-code for the type of project you're working on.

Knitters LOVE them, read the nearly 1,000 5-star reviews on Etsy and pick up a few. The coupon deal for the PalKal 2016 is buy 4 and get one free from their Etsy shop, Fiber To Fabric Magic! Put 5 in your cart and one will ring up FREE.

Claudia will be giving away 2 Needle Keepers to a lucky listener of this Podcast, and you get to choose which colors you'd like!

Knitting Talkback: Yarn (The Movie)

I was recently sent a screener copy of Yarn and I really enjoyed it. It was a different take on the fiber for me, but I found it really interesting and informative. Check out the website for more information about where you can see this film.

Non-Knitting Segments

One Pot Wonders

One Pot Summer Vegetable Pasta

One of the easiest recipes I've made.

Love it or Leave it

This one is a combo! I both love and leave cleaning out clothes that no longer fit me!

Other News and Notes

Running Updates

I am training for my marathon and having some issues on my runs, but fighting through it. I ran a charity run on Sunday, #CharlotteRunsForOrlando, and I have a race on July 4th with my friend Karen.

Book Updates

I finished reading and/or listening to:

I Know I am But What Are You? By Samantha Bee

Prada and Prejudice by Katie Olver

I started reading and/or listening to:

A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain

Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari

Briefly I mentioned that my grandparents live in Rainelle, West Virginia, the site of some major flooding last week. They are (thankfully) ok and their home was spared, but they are lucky to live on a mountain. The town was completely destroyed, many people lost their homes and everything they have. If you are interested in helping, check out this article on The Huffington Post for information.

This episode is sponsored by Infinite Twist and Fix-a-Stitch!

Knitting Segments

Show-Ready Knits

Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli

I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados

This brings my Stash Dash total to 1, 124 yards or 1027.8 meters.

I became curious about why some shawl patterns use a garter tab for the starting point, so I did a little research. Check out this blog post at Kelbourne Woolens about garter tabs.

This got me to thinking: how have I gotten away this long without doing a garter tab? What is something in knitting that you can't believe you have never done before? Join in the discussion on the Episode 54 thread on Ravelry!

Stash Dash is a Summer KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls video podcast!

Knits in Rehearsal

Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli

Yarn is Miss Babs Yowza in Oyster

Thank goodness for my Strauch Ball Winder!

Rainbow Vanilla Socks in White Birch Fiber Arts

I'm using the OMG Heel pattern by Megan Williams

Hey Lady Hey is doing a Solidarity Craft-a-long to show support for the victims and families of the mass shooting in Orlando Florida.

This episode of Actually Knitting is sponsored by Infinite Twist.

Still looking for that perfect project for the PalKal? Infinite Twist has teamed up with Jan Hamby from the TwinSet Designs Podcast to create a stunning gradient kit for Jan's latest shawl design, Gradient Angles. Using the same foundation as a mitered square, this delightful shawl flies off the needles!" The prize: A Gradient Angles kit, including Jan's pattern, all the hand-dyed yarn you'll need to complete the project, a bamboo circular needle, stitch markers, yarn needle, two-color pattern marking pencil, and a handy gauge card.

Enter "PalKal" as your secret code and get a free pair of 50 gram miniskeins with your order! Auditioning Knits

I am thinking about casting on the Solaris Shawl by Melanie Berg with my Pal Kal Mini Kit from One Twisted Tree.

By the way, if you like Melanie Berg then stay tuned for a fun KAL.

Also will be casting on some socks with my Twist Fiber Studio Fairview Fingering Yarn that I purchased last fall. Not sure about the pattern, but likely something from Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin podcast.

I will house this project in a Fat Squirrel bag which was gifted to me by Sarah Shoo of the Cultivate and Create podcast.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

If you hear this episode on or around June 15th, 2016, go to the Ravelry thread for a special Pal Kal Mini Kit giveaway.

PalKal2016 officially begins on June 15th!

Rules:

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag or stitch marker by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it's a finished product.

2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!

3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes are listed in the appropriate threads and will be listed on the podcast as well.

4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.

5. Enter as many projects as you like! There is no minimum yardage requirement or limit to the projects you can enter.

6. If you use more than one podcaster product/design/bag/etc on one project, you may create multiple entries for that project. For example: Knit the Zigzagular Socks by prairiegirlsusie using yarn by Oh! Loops and use a project bag by thefatsquirrel, you can enter that project into the FO thread 3 separate times, just link to each podcaster seperately in each post.

7. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can't just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way). The same applies for stitch markers.

8. Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, 2016.

9. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.

10. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie! Please support as many different podcasts as you can!

11. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!

12. Use the tag PALKAL2016 here on Ravelry and #palkal2016 on Instagram.

13. Feel free to double, triple, quadruple dip!

This week I have highlighted our Featured Performers and Top Billing Sponsors. These are the folks who have offered coupon/discount codes for the PalKal 2016!

Please check out the threads in the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry for more information!

Knitting Daddy Greg of the Unraveling Podcast

1$ off Scrappy Sock Yarn Preemie Hat

Sarah Shoo of Cultivate and Create Podcast

$1.50 off in Ravelry Shop

Daniela Richardson from the Coffee Fueled Life Podcast

50% off in Ravelry Store.

Jennifer Lassonde of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast

40% off of 2 or more patterns in Ravelry Store

Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

25% off in her Ravelry Shop

Kristi from the In a Sknit Video Podcast

25% off of her In Transit Cap and Cowl pattern

Brenda Castiel Designs

20% off in her Ravelry Shop

$5.00 off in her Etsy Shop

Mary of the Kino Knits Podcast

20% off in her Ravelry Shop

Ashley of Twist Fiber Studio and the Twisted Stitcher Podcast

15% off in Etsy Shop

Paula of the Knitting Pipeline Podcast

20% off of self-published patterns in her Ravelry store

Ann of the Carolina Fiber Girls

50% off her Fletcher's Falling Leaves Sock Pattern

Lisa of Zombody Knits

$1.00 off in Etsy Shop

Kristine Beeson of the Yarnings Podcast

30% off in her Ravelry Store

C.C. Almon from the Geeky Girls Knit Podcast

15% off in her Ravelry Store

Janis Ficker/ of the Carolina Fiber Girls

50% off of her 10 Day Sweater Pattern

Twinset Jan from the Twinset Designs Podcast

$2.00 off in her Ravelry Store

Julia from the Whole Lotta Craft Podcast

15% off in her Ravelry Store

Angela from Revelations of a Dellusional Knitter Podcast

50% off in her Ravelry Store

Stephanie from Happy Buffalo Boutique

Free Shipping in her Etsy Shop

Twinset Ellen from the Twinset Designs Podcast

50% off of one pattern in her Ravelry Shop

Anne from Wooly Wonka Fiber and podcast

15% off of all orders, both in stock and custom dyed

Claire of New Hampshire Knits

15% off in her Etsy Shop, The Wooly Thistle

Producing Sponsors offering Discounts:

Sock Ruler

25% off 1 regular sock ruler

Fiber to Fabric Magic

Buy 4 get one free Needle Keepers

Bijou Basin Ranch

15% discount on yarn, excluding Qiviut and Paco-Vicuna

Media Peruana Designs

25% off a pattern in her Ravelry Shop

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting

50% off a PDF pattern of your choice in her Ravery Shop

Infinite Twist

Free 50 gram mini skein with purchase

In addition to those mentioned above, the following are also producing sponsors of the PalKal 2016:

Knitter's Pride

Fix a Stitch

Eucalan

Della Q

Ancient Arts Fibre

World Wide Knit in Public Day

I will be at the Craft Public House at 2pm and then heading over to Warm and Fuzzy in Cary, NC.

Episode 54 is brought to you by Fix-a-Stitch

Ever face the tedious task of having to drop down and correct a mistake in your knitting? The Fix-A-Stitch is here to help! It's a double-ended tool that uses a patented method to change stitches from knit to purl or purl to knit quick and easy. Check our website for great tutorials and other ways to use it. The tool comes in a package of three for light, medium or bulky weights. A lace weight tool is sold separately. Fix-A-Stitch is available at local yarn shops around the country.More information available at www.fixastitch.com.

Podcast Premiere

On this episode I feature the new to me knitting podcasts, the Jenn Sheelen podcast and Relentless Knitting

Non-Knitting Segments

One Pot Wonders

One Pan Lemon Parmesan Chicken and Asparagus

Love it or Leave it

Love: Trader Joe's Iced Coffee Concentrate

Leave: The heat! The inescapable HEAT!

Other News and Notes

Running Updates:

Marathon Training has officially started

Reading Updates:

I finished reading Shopaholic to the Rescue by Sophie Kinsella. It was...ok

I started reading The Widow by Fiona Barton which I heard about on the 2 Knit Lit Chicks Podcast.

I started listening to I Know I am but What Are You? by Samantha Bee

Episode 53 is brought to you by Never Not Knitting and The Sock Ruler!

Knitting Segments Show-Ready Knits

Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder

I knitted these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

Stash Dash is a Summer KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls video podcast!

Knits in Rehearsal

Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli

I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I've been following the pattern in Spanish, more about that in a later segment.

Ballsack by Jennifer Sugarcane

Rainbow Vanilla Socks in White Birch Fiber Arts

I'm using the OMG Heel pattern by Megan Williams

This episode of Actually Knitting is brought to you by the Never Not Knitting online shop where you will find unusual gifts and notions for knitters such as handcarved knitting needles, specialty buttons, and stitch marker jewelry. Check out the latest offerings at nevernotknitting.com. Looking for a new project to knit? Use the coupon code PalKal2016 to receive 50% off of a pdf pattern of your choice!

Knitting News, Notes and Events

PalKal2016 officially begins on June 15th!

Rules:

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag or stitch marker by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it's a finished product.

2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!

3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes are listed in the appropriate threads and will be listed on the podcast as well.

4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.

5. Enter as many projects as you like! There is no minimum yardage requirement or limit to the projects you can enter.

6. If you use more than one podcaster product/design/bag/etc on one project, you may create multiple entries for that project. For example: Knit the Zigzagular Socks by prairiegirlsusie using yarn by Oh! Loops and use a project bag by thefatsquirrel, you can enter that project into the FO thread 3 separate times, just link to each podcaster seperately in each post.

7. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can't just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way). The same applies for stitch markers.

8. Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, 2016.

9. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.

10. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie! Please support as many different podcasts as you can!

11. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!

12. Use the tag PALKAL2016 here on Ravelry and #palkal2016 on Instagram.

13. Feel free to double, triple, quadruple dip!

Some of the KALs going on this summer:

Around Your Neck KAL with the Suburban Stitcher Podcast

Splash Pad Party with the Down Cellar Studio Podcast

Great Outdoors Kal with Knitting Butterflies

Batter Up Kal with In a Sknit

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can't wait to share with you all! Let's make some plans for summer knitting!

Today I will highlight our Cameo Sponsors who are donating prizes for the KAL. For more information, check out the threads on Ravelry in the Actually Knitting Podcast Group.

Jenn Sheelan Designs and Podcast

Lilliput Yarn

One Twisted Tree/Prairie Girl Danie of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

The Relentless Knitting Podcast

The Twisted Stitches Podcast

Unwind Yarn Company/Dana from the Just One More Row Podcast

I am also highlighting the prizes being offered by these Top Billing Sponsors. These sponsors have donated prizes as well as coupon codes. More information about all of this can be found in the threads on the Ravelry group, but today we will focus on the prizes.

Ancient Threads Farm Etsy Shop and Website/Podcast

A skein of yarn, winner's choice.

Ann of the Carolina Fiber Girls

Copy of the Fletcher's Falling Leaves Sock Pattern

Brenda Castiel Designs

3 Patterns of winners' choice

Daniela Richardson from Caffeinated Knitting

5 Patterns from her Ravelry Store.

Janis Ficker/ of the Carolina Fiber Girls

Copy of her 10 Day Sweater Pattern

C.C. Almon from the Geeky Girls Knit Podcast

Copy of her ebook, Coffee with C.C.

Jennifer Lassonde of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast

Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Store

Knitting Daddy Greg of the Unraveling Podcast

2 copies of his Scrappy Sock Yarn Preemie Hat

Mary of the Kino Knits Podcast

Copy of her Adrenaline Junkie Sock Pattern

Kristine Beeson of the Yarnings Podcast

Winner's Choice of pattern from her Ravelry Store

Paula of the Knitting Pipeline Podcast

5 patterns from her Ravelry store and one winner will receive a shawl quantity of yarn from Quince

and Co.

Sarah Shoo of Cultivate and Create Podcast

3 patterns from her Ravelry Shop

Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

Copy of one of her patterns from her Ravelry Shop

Ashley of Twist Fiber Studio and the Twisted Stitcher Podcast

Project bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop

Zombody Knits

A project bag from her Etsy Shop

Please check out the threads on Ravelry for photos and more information and remember that all of the Top Billing Sponsors have provided coupon codes as well, which you can also find in the Ravelry group.

Knitting Talkback: Tejer en Español

I answered a question from the Ask me Anything thread on Ravelry about knitting/crochet in Spanish. Here's the link to the knitting abbreviations I referred to in the talkback.

I talk a little about my experience knitting the Pure Joy Shawl (link above) using the Spanish version of the pattern.

Episode 53 is brought to you by The Sock Ruler. The Sock Ruler is an innovative measuring tool for sock knitters. Whether the sock is knit toe up or cuff down the ruler works equally well. It is constructed of a heavy duty, yet flexible plastic and measures from the inside of the sock, allowing the sock to lie flat and ensure accurate measurements."

Visit our website, www.sockruler.com, for more information and don't forget to use coupon code "palkal2016" for 25% off of a regular sock ruler from now until September 15th. Limit 1 regular Sock Ruler per customer, US customers only.

Stage Craft

I have finished my favorite sewing project to date, the jumpsuit pattern Butterick 6330. It looks great!

I mentioned that I got my fabric from GirlCharlee Fabrics, about which I have mixed reviews.

One Pot Wonder

Balsamic Chicken and Brussel's Sprouts

Love it or Leave it

Love: It's Porch Season

Leave: Raining on my cookout night! (Update, it didn't rain! We had a great time at the cookout!)

Other News and Notes

Running Updates

I ran a 10k at Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, NC. It was a fun time!

Official Marathon Training Starts June 4th, 2016

Reading Updates

I finished listening to The Girl with All the Gifts by M. R. Carey

I gave this book 3 stars, it just wasn't my thing

I also finished reading Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn

I also started listening to Dumplin' by Julie Murphy and I am really enjoying it.

I started reading Tricky Twenty-two by Janet Evanovich

Otherwise...

School is almost finished for the year! Soon I'll be #knittinlikeitsmyjob

My mom and I are going to see Dolly Parton in concert! This is a dream come true!

Knitting Segments

Knits in Rehearsal

Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder

I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

Memories Blanket by Georgie Nicolson

Stash Dash Plans

Stash Dash is a Summer KAL hosted by the Knit Girllls video podcast!

Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli

I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I can't wait to get this!

Worsted Boxy

Hermione's Everyday socks (linked above)

Rainbow Vanilla Socks

Astonish Top

Endpaper Mitts

Effortless Cardigan

Ice Shanty by Amy Miller

Knitting News, Notes and Events

World Wide Knit in Public Day is June 18th, 2016

Hamilton Contest

I forgot to draw a winner on Episode 51, so listen up to see if you are the lucky winner!

Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for donating this prize!

Broadway Kal

This Kal ended on April 30th and prizes were drawn. If you haven't listened to Episode 51 please check it out to see if you were a winner!

PalKal 2016

This is the biggest and best event of the year for Actually Knitting listeners!

What is the PalKal?

The PalKal will run June 15- September 15 2016

1. The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

2. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify). Spinning also counts, just make sure it's a finished product.

3. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!

4. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes can be found on the show notes and in the specially labeled threads in the Actually Knitting group on Ravelry.

5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.

6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can't just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).

7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.

8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!

9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!

10. Use the tag #palkal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

11. Wips count! Just finish them between June 15 and September 15, doesn't matter when they were started.

    Featured Performer Sponsors are coming in everyday and so far there are coupon codes available from the following sponsors:

    Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting

    Brenda Castiel

    Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting

    Knitting Daddy Greg from Unraveling with Greg and Joey

    Mary from Kino Knits

    Sarah Shoo from Cultivate and Create

    Susie from The Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

    The coupon code for all vendors is PalKal2016 to keep things simpler this year! Thanks so much to all of the sponsors!

    There will be a special Actually Knitting PalKal mini skein kit available from One Twisted Tree on May 17th, 2016, at 7am CST.

Knitting Talkback: Yarn and Knit Wear Storage

This episode I answered a question from the What Would You Like to Hear about thread in the Ravelry group.

I referenced this blog post about yarn-eating insects and also this information about using cedar to keep the bugs away.

I like to store my shawls and other knitted items in hanging soft shelves like these from Amazon.

Non-Knitting Segments One Pot Wonders

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken (not a true one-pot recipe but really delicious)

Love it or Leave it

Love: Josh is cooking more now that we have a pressure cooker

Leave: My public library often has the first book in a series but none of the others!

Other News and Notes

Actually Reading

I finished reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

I'm still reading The Girl with All the Gifts by M. R. Carey

Actually Running

No big updates to report.

Knitting Segments

I mentioned the Unraveling with Greg and Joey podcast, check those guys out if you get a second!

Show Ready Knits

Bryum by Cailliau Berangere

I mentioned a flub I had with a dropped stitch, which I was able to repair using my Fix a Stitch.

Knits in Rehearsal

Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder

I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

Memories Blanket by Georgie Nicolson

Auditioning Knits

Pure Joy by Joji Locatelli

I bought the Argentine yarn from Pura Hilados and I can't wait to get this!

Ice Shanty by Amy Miller

Knitting News, Notes and Events

We wrapped up the Broadway Kal on April 30th and we have several prizes to give away. Make sure to listen to see if you are one of the lucky ones!

The PalKal will be starting in June. I am looking for prizes and sponsors, so email me if you are interested!

I mentioned World Wide Knit in Public day which is June 18, 2016.

I also mentioned the Knit Girllls podcast and their KAL, Stash Dash. Check out their podcast.

I also mentioned a new to me video podcast called Legacy Knitz.

Non-Knitting Segments What a Crock! Crock Pot 5 Ingredient Honey Sriracha Chicken Love it or Leave it Love: Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Season 2, is out on Netflix. Leave: Packaging issues Stage Craft I've been doing a lot of sewing and finished a pattern I will definitely be making again. McCall's M6654 is a great value and I am learning more about lining garments and using my serger. I am loving the fabric selections from Girl Charlee Fabrics. I am currently working on a jumpsuit from Butterick's B6330. Other News and Notes Books I finished reading 2 books: Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave I started reading The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith Running Thanks so much for donating to Team Taps and my efforts towards running the 41st annual Marine Corps Marathon in October of this year. Fundraising is far from over, so if you are interesting in donating, it's not too late. Other

May is shaping up to be a very busy month and final exams will be here before I know it, so I hope to keep a regular recording schedule for the month.

Knitting Segments Show Ready Knits

Vanilla Socks for Josh

Knits in Rehearsal

Bryum shawl

Yarn purchased at my favorite yarn shop, Black Mountain Yarn Shop.

Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder

I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

I used the OMG heel by Megan Williams on these socks and I will be using this heel a lot in the future.

Vanilla Socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts

Auditioning Knits

I'm looking for the perfect Rhinebeck Sweater! I have 1500 yards of a beautiful 100% Sport Weight in a gorgeous golden yellow.

Stay the Same by Veera Valimaki

Still Light Tunic by Veera Valimaki

Cosi by Judy Brien

The Reviews are In

This episode I reviewed Henry's Hat by Eric and Joanna Johnson. Thanks to the folks at Slate Falls Press for sending me this review copy.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

The Broadway KAL is up and running! I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.

Cast on: February 15, 2016

Bind off: April 30, 2016

Wips Count!

The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours).

How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you!

There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work.

This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread.

Prizes!

1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde

1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique

2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm

Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for the donation of an Original Cast Recording of Hamilton. Listen up to find out about the prompt for this giveaway and thanks to Thuy for the prize.

There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

PAL KAL is coming up this summer!

Today I answered a question in the Ask me Anything thread in the group on Ravelry.

Non-Knitting Segments

One Pot Wonder

One Pot Wonder Southwest Pasta

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Ice Cream, specifically Ben and Jerry's Salted Caramel Blondie

Leave it: I have a friend who is coping with the loss of a loved one.

Other News and Notes

Finished Books

The Daughter by Jane Shemilt.

Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. Warning, this book is very graphic and disturbing.

Currently Listening to:

The Girl with All the Gifts

Currently Reading:

Furiously Happy

Running Updates

I wil be running in the 41st Annual Marine Corps Marathon in October 2016! I am scared and excited.

I am raising money in memory of my cousin Jacob, who was a Marine who served 2 tours in Iraq, and passed away in 2011. I would love to raise some more money this month in honor of his birthday on April 20th. Please check out my fundraising page and donate if you can.

Episode 49

I mentioned the iTunes review from one of the hosts of Unraveling with Greg and Joey, check them out if you get a chance.

Knits in Rehearsal

Vanilla Socks for Josh

Hermione's Every Day Socks by Erica Lueder

I'm knitting these out of my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

Vanilla Socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts

Bryum shawl

Yarn purchased at my favorite yarn shop, Black Mountain Yarn Shop.

Worsted Boxy

My favorite Miss Babs Yarn, gotta love it!

Auditioning Knits

It's not been released yet, but Joji Locatelli has a new shawl pattern coming out (hopefully) soon. Check out her Instagram feed to see the picture.

I mentioned having seen the shawl on the Suburban Stitcher Podcast.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

News

The Broadway KAL is up and running! I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.

Cast on: February 15, 2016

Bind off: April 15, 2016

Wips Count!

The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours).

How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you!

There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work.

This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread.

Prizes!

1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde

1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique

2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm

Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.

2 patterns from Estella Haines' Ravelry Shop.

New Prize Offering!

Thanks to Thuy from the Twisted Stitches Podcast for the donation of an Original Cast Recording of Hamilton. Listen up to find out about the prompt for this giveaway and thanks to Thuy for the prize.

There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

Notes

My mother came for a visit and I taught her how to knit and she loves it! I'm so happy! She's working on her first ever pattern, the Sugar Cubes Baby Washcloth.

Events

I attended the Carolina Fiber Frolic a couple of weekends ago and I had am amazing time. Listen up for a short recap of the event.

Heather Storta was the teacher and I really enjoyed taking classes with her.

Non-Knitting Segments One-Pot Wonders

One Skillet Cream Cheese Mexican Chicken and Rice

Love it or Leave it

Love: Peloton Bike

Leave: End of Quarter Stress

StageCraft

I've been working on even more sewing! Check out my Instagram to see the pics of the bags I have finished this week. I used Ellie Mae Designs K155 and McCalls M6256 for my project bags.

Book News/Notes

Thanks to a listener for suggesting Modern Mrs. Darcy for book recommendations. I also heard about it on the Cultivate and Create podcast.

Currently Reading

Started reading The Daughter by Jane Shemilt.

Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. Warning, this book is very graphic and disturbing.

Finished Reading

The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty

Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear

Running Updates

I am back at it, training for a 10k in May. No pain, so hopefully the injury is healed.

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Virgie Clay by Sarah Stevens

Los Monos Locos by Jennifer O'Sullivan

Knits in Rehearsal

Vanilla Socks for Josh

Auditioning Knits

Ready to cast on a pair of vanilla socks with some White Birch Fiber Arts and a pair of patterned socks with my first ever skein of Socks that Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts. I'm thinking of casting on some Hermione's Everyday Socks or some Zigagular Socks.

Also ready to swatch and cast on for my Worsted Boxy sweater that I've had in my queue for a long time!

Will probably cast on the Bryum shawl this week as well.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

News

I started watching a New to Me video podcast called The Grocery Girls Knit. These ladies are sisters from Canada and they are quite charming.

Notes

My mother came for a visit and I taught her how to knit and she loves it! I'm so happy!

Events

I drew a winner for the Fern Fiber contest that started February 15th. Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner!

I'll be attending the following events:

Carolina Fiber Frolic March 18-20

Carolina Fiber Fest (tentatively) March 26th (tentatively)

The Broadway KAL is up and running! I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.

Cast on: February 15, 2016

Bind off: April 15, 2016

Wips Count!

The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours).

How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you!

There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work.

This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread.

Prizes!

1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde

1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique

2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm

Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.

2 patterns from Estella Haines' Ravelry Shop.

There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

Knitting Talk Back

In the third part of the Carolina in my Mind series, I have an interview with Laurie Gonyea of the Feel Good Yarn Company/Silver Spun Yarn. This is an exciting product and I hope you enjoy hearing all about it!

There is a contest thread up in the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, check it out and enter to win. This contest will run from March 15th to April 10th, 2016.

Non-Knitting Segments

One Pot Wonders

One Pan Mexican Quinoa Wraps

Love it or Leave it

I only have one thing that works for both Love it and Leave it this episode, the Downton Abbey Series Finale.

Other News and Notes

No running news, I'm on the injured list.

Books

I started listening to Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter. It's listed as a psychological thriller, but I haven't had a chance to get really into it yet.

I started reading the Maisie Dobbs Series and I also haven't really gotten into that. Thanks for all of the suggestions on the book thread on Ravelry.

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Elphaba Cowl by Wendy Chapman

Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Trabajos del Peru

Needles: Size 11 bamboo

Star Crossed Slouchy Beret by Natalie Larson

Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Trabajos del Peru

Needles: Size 11 Knitter's Pride Nova Platina Interchangeables

These knits are both for the #akbroadwaykal and were a donation, plus they were from stash I've had since 2009, making them perfect Triple Threat Knits!

Knits in Rehearsal

Virgie Clay by Sarah Stevens

Yarn: Fave Sock by Fiber Story in Deep Sea, Aegean, Squeeze, and Koi Pond

Needles: Size 5 Signature Convertibles

Knitting News, Notes and Events

The Broadway KAL had it's opening night. I hope you are playing along because there are some great prizes up for grabs.

Cast on: February 15, 2016

Bind off: April 15, 2016

Wips Count!

The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours).

How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you!

There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work.

This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread.

Prizes!

1 pattern from Jennifer Lassonde

1 Skein of yarn from The Happy Buffalo Boutique

2 Skeins of yarn from Ancient Threads Farm

Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.

There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry, as well as a Finished Objects thread. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

Contest News:

Last episode in the "Carolina in my Mind" segment, I had an interview with Maria and Nikki of Fern Fiber. These ladies specialize in naturally dyed yarns that are produced without chemicals. I learned a lot talking with these ladies, and they generously provided a giveaway skein for my listeners. Check out Episode 46 for more information. The giveaway thread will be open

Events:

I'll be attending the following events:

Carolina Fiber Frolic March 18-20

Carolina Fiber Fest (tentatively) March 26th

Finishing class with Alana Dakos May 14th, 2016 at Black Mountain Yarn Shop

Non-Knitting Segments One Pot Wonders

Avocado Caprese Skillet Chicken

Love it or Leave it

Love: LuLaRoe Leggings

Leave: My more frequently needed haircuts!

Stage Craft

I made pants! Simplicity 1887 was very easy to follow and now I'm working on a dress. I'm finding sewing easier and less scary!

Other News and Notes

Book Notes

Wow! I am enjoying all of the suggestions on the Ravelry thread! I have definitely grown my "to read" list on Goodreads, keep the suggestions coming!

I finished reading Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal

I started reading The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Running Notes

I ran a 10 mile race on February 20th and did pretty well considering my lack of training.

I have another 1/2 marathon on March 5th.

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Drips Hat

This was my Panthers hat, to support my hometown team going to the Super Bowl.

Yarn: Fiberspates Vivacious DK in Deep Aqua and Mission Falls 1824 Wool in Black

I'm holding the DK weight double to match the gauge of the black.

Needles: Size 10 Signature Convertibles, using Magic Loop.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

The Twist Fiber Studio contest ended on February 10th and the winner was announced on this episode. The coupon code, ACTUALLYKNITTING, is still good in the shop until February 29th, 2016. Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner.

I'll be attending the following events:

Carolina Fiber Frolic March 18-20

Carolina Fiber Fest (tentatively) March 26th

Finishing class with Alana Dakos May 14th, 2016

Broadway Kal

If you are hearing this episode, the KAL has begun!

Cast on: February 15, 2016

Bind off: April 15, 2016

The theme is Broadway, and you can interpret this theme as strictly or as loosely as you’d like. Basically, your project should tie in with a play or musical (on Broadway, or a little further from the Great White Way, the decision is yours).

How you tie in your project with the theme is up to you, make it work! Have fun! Is the yarn or pattern actually named after a Broadway show or character or even a song from a show? Does the project remind you of a costume from a show? Is the yarn bright green, so it reminds you of Elphaba’s skin in Wicked? You get the point! Here is a great website where you can see Broadway shows listed by the year that they opened. You never know what might inspire you!

There is a featured bundle in this group where any group member is free to add patterns you find that might work.

This thread is for discussion and planning. Feel free to chat, encourage, make suggestions, etc. Closer to the cast-on date, a thread will be opened for finished objects. We will keep this KAL to one post per person in the FO thread, that way everyone is kind of on even ground. You may complete as many projects as you like, but you will put all of your FOs in one post in that thread.

So far there are no sponsors or prizes, but we’ll find something! If you would like to donate a prize, please PM me, Michelle, actuallyknitting.

Yay! Bravo! Break a leg!

There is a chatter thread open on the Actually Knitting Podcast group on Ravelry. Use the tag #AKBroadwayKal2016 on Instagram and Ravelry.

Be sure to check out Ancient Threads Farm! Lynda has generously offered a coupon code, Actually20, that is good through April 15th, for 20% off of anything in her Etsy Shop.

Ivy Theatre Fundraiser

Knitting Talkback

Continuing the series "Carolina in my Mind," I have an interview with Maria and Nikki of Fern Fiber. These ladies specialize in naturally dyed yarns that are produced without chemicals. I learned a lot talking with these ladies, and they generously provided a giveaway skein for my listeners. Check out the episode for more information.

This giveaway will be open until March 10, 2016

Non-Knitting Segments One Pot Wonders

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Bake

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Gas Fireplace on a cold day!

No leave it this week! Keeping it positive!

Other News and Notes

Running news

I set a new PR in my last race, the Super Bowl 4 miler!

I have a 10 mile race on February 20th and a 1/2 Marathon on March 6th

Books

I've been in a reading rut lately! I've opened a thread in the Ravelry group so you can tell me the last best book you read!

I finished Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee and I didn't enjoy it AT ALL!

I've been reading Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal