Down Cellar Studio Podcast

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 129 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out show notes with photos on my website.   This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• From the Armchair
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Knit Style Yarns, Knitted Wit, Inner Yarn Zen   Off the Needles   Zombie Christmas Socks

• Yarn:  Dyenamics Yarn Supersock Fingering in Zombie Colorway - gray base with darker gray (some blue tones) blips of red and green
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  Sugar Plum Fairy Socks

• Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel
• I referenced the Knitmore Girls Podcast (Episode 462) and their instructions for using Citric Acid to set dye in wool yarn.

  Frankensock #7

• Yarn: leftover bits of sock yarn joined using Cate's Clasp Weft Join
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  Laura's New Year's Socks

• Yarn: Paton's Kroy in the Blue Raspberry colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  Ninilchik Swoncho 

• Pattern: Ninilchik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter
• Yarn: Cloudborne DK, Fiberstory DK + Gale's Art Super Star DK
• Needles: US 4 & 6
• Check out my project page on Ravelry (linked above) for full project details and notes
  • Main Color: Shaela Heather for Main color- light taupy beige.
  • CC1: Fiberstory Core DK- Sweetly- Variegated- base looks like the Shaela heather but with pinks, plums and a bit of mustard in it
  • CC2: Fiberstory Core DK- Sabrina (plum)
  • CC3: Gale's Art Super Star DK in a mustard color (lost ball band)
  • CC4 (added) Charcoal Heather- Cloudborne DK

On the Needles   Teething Ring

• Pattern: None
• Yarn: Cotton dish cloth yarn
• Hook: D
• Cast on 8 with magic loop. Work in the round. Making a long tube and stuffing with poly fil as you go. Sew together at end. Made this one in a tan. Going to make a smaller, brighter color work to loop through it.

  imprim Bleu Socks

• Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Bleu color way
• Pattern: OMG Heel (most likely)
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)

Rainbow Frankenstein  

• Yarn: Scraps (started with scraps of Paton's Blue Raspberry Colorway)
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG heel

  Pewter Socks

• Yarn: Olann Yarn the Pewter colorway  (purple/grays, tans, pewter- copper?)
• Pattern: Vanilla is the New Black
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
  
  

  New Design for Handspun

• More details to come but I'm looking forward to getting back to knitting on this.

From the Armchair   2017 year in review:  

• 27 toys
• 24 pairs of socks
• 3 single socks (frankensocks)
• 14 hats
• 9 ornaments
• 6 stockings
• 4 shawls
• 3 outfits for dolls I've made previously
• 2 tops/sweaters
• 7 Other (iphone case, wash cloth, legwarmers and garland)
• Total: 99

2017 Percentages

• 51 crochet, 48 knitting- Almost 50/50!
• 19 for me / 80 gifts

Tip: To find your details, go to your Ravelry Projects then click on Advanced. From there you can search like you search for patterns. I sorted by "Finished" and "Finished in 2017." In my Travels Vogue Knitting Live: NYC - Review     Friday: I took a great class on charts with Emily and Alexa of Tin Can Knits. I spent time with my friend Lauren of the Teaknits Podcast and took Pilates at my friend Laura's new studio- PilatiBod     Saturday: I got to meet Katie (one half of the Imagined Landscapes Podcast) in person for the first time. I bought a skein of yarn and cast on before my 2p Lace class with Brooke Nico which was really valuable!   Sunday: I eased into the day having breakfast with Mary (of the Kino Knits Podcast) and met up with my friend Mara. At 9am I had Shawl Shapes with Veera Valimaki     KAL News   Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points. Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
    • Find the coupons here.
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:  

• December "Off Sides" Interception Winner Announced
• December Participation Prizes Announced

  Slay the Stash 2018

• Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins that are soooo pretty we don’t want to touch them. In 2018, we are turning those sacred skeins into beautiful projects you can enjoy-- and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! Full details and rules can be found here.
• January Post
• Use and follow #slaythestash2018 on Social Media

Slay the Stash 2018: Sponsor List

• January: KnitCircus
• February: Kathryn Frank Fiber Arts
• March: Blue Skin Yarns
• April: BlueberryChick Yarn
• May: Legacy Fiber Artz
• June: Knitters Brewing Co
• July: Fish Belly Fiber Works
• August: SixandSevenFiber
• September: Fibernymph Dye Works
• October: Marigold Jen
• November: Dyenamixx Yarns
• December: Sunsoaked Yarns

Events 2018 Box O' Balls Round Robin Mini Swap: sign up anytime during 2018.  Shipping cost of $13.50 (within US; have option to send Internationally) The contents will include: at least 20 mini yarn balls (each ball will be minimum of 5g/ 20 yards) to choose from, a handwritten note or card and a small gift. Find all of the details in this thread in the Ravelry Group.   Life in Focus 2018 Goals- 18 of them (well, not quite, at least not yet) inspired by Gretchen Rubin- Happier Podcast    

1. Finish 2017 Project Life pages and order album
2. Finish exporting photos out of iPhoto
3. Create Collage Wall for Hall
4. Publish a shawl pattern
5. Paint and decorate guest room
6. Publish GoodReader PDF
7. Go on a Camping/Kayaking trip somewhere new
8. Establish a better filing system at home
9. Make 3 months worth of pages on my physical scrapbook
10. Play with video and editing
11. Finish- A week in the Life 2017 Album
12. Build more muscle
13. Try three new exercise classes
14. Sleep better
15. Get back in the habit of journaling
16. Perform a Weekly Review (GTD) each week

  Word of the Year: Flex

• Flex my muscles, stretch my muscles, be flexible in life, flex my design muscles. build them and flex
• Note: I first heard about picking a word of the year from Ali Edwards

I am setting weekly goals and tracking in Evernote.   On a Happy Note

• Laura visit for New Years
• I joined another 4 week session of hiit (high intensity interval training)
• Beautiful snow!
• Really enjoying the success I’m seeing with my weekly planning. I know I”m only a few weeks in but it feels sustainable.

Quote of the Week “If you make it a habit not to blame others, you will feel the growth of the ability to love in your soul, and you will see the growth of goodness in your life.” -- Leo Tolstoy, A Calendar of Wisdom       ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

     

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 128 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Off the Needles   Simple Star Ornaments

• I used fingering, worsted and bulky weight yarn with varying hook sizes.
• Soaked finished stars quickly in water. Squeeze out excess water.  Used T pins to pin into blocking board (covered in saran wrap to protect it.
• Dabbed on Mod Podge Stiffy with a foam brush and wiped into front and back.

  Groot

• Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
• Hook: D 3.25 mm
• Pattern: Groot Amigurumi by Clare Heesh (free crochet)

  Red Ninja II

• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash- Red
• Hook: C:
• Pattern: none

  You've Been Elf'ed Socks

• Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Base (80% SW Merino, 20% Nylon) You've been Elfed Colorway.
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

  Encore Turn a Square

• Yarn: Plymouth Encore Tweed Colorway 0217- Black with tan flecks
• Needles: US 5 + US 7
• Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
• Cast on 92- thicker yarn
• 6 1/2 inches before decreases but I think that was too short. My gut told me 7 inches but the only notes in my Rav Project pages said 6.. now I know.

  On the Needles   Zombie Christmas Socks

• Yarn:  Dyenamics Yarn Supersock Fingering in Zombie Colorway - gray base with darker gray (some blue tones) blips of red and green
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  Sugar Plum Fairy Socks

• Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel

  Frankensock #7

• Yarn: leftover bits of sock yarn joined using Cate's Clasp Weft Join
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  New Design for Handspun     Ninilchik Swoncho 

• Pattern: Ninilchik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter
• Yarn: Cloudborne DK, Fiberstory DK + Gale's Art Super Star DK
• Needles: US 4 & 6

Brainstorming

• Fingering Yarn held double for socks. Christmas yarn leftovers with white or gray
• Siksak Hat
• Baby prop- if you have any favorites please let me know!

From the Armchair

• Done Disappeared (parody) Podcast
• Broadchurch available on Netflix (season 3 available now)
• 2017 Year in Review: I talked about how I went about it. Here's a link to 50 Important Questions to Help you Reflect

Crafty Adventures   Before Christmas I spent a crafty afternoon with my best friend Kris!

• My Christmas making was done so I focused on finishing and getting things unstuck.
• Finished sewing in the ribbon to cover the steeks on my cardigan
• Ripped out toe on a pair of socks that I made too short.
• I fixed granny square jacket my mom made decades ago so my niece can wear it...
• Did finish a few of those crochet stars because they were fun...
• And Kris got some sewing done while we chatted!

  KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• Prizes:
  • Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon
  •  Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen

  WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points. Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
    • Find the coupons here.
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.
• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• December Interception reminder: Sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works

Slay the Stash 2018

• Each month you can declare a skein of yarn to knit/crochet/weave to its very end. Let’s use up those older special skeins that are soooo pretty we don’t want to touch them. In 2018, we are turning those sacred skeins into beautiful projects you can enjoy-- and maybe win a new beautiful skein of yarn from one of our sponsors along the way! Full details and rules can be found here.
• January Post
• Use and follow #slaythestash2018 on Social Media

 Events

• 2018 Box O' Balls Round Robin Mini Swap: click the link for full details about the mini skein swap
• I will be attending Vogue Knitting Live NYC: January 12-14, 2018

Life in Focus Happiness Project

• Gave my final thoughts on the December Project.
• Did a 2017 Happiness Project Review.
• I mentioned that I recently listened to an Episode of Slow Your Home where Cait Flanders was talking about her year long spending ban. Link above if you want to check that out.
• I am still planning my 2018 Goals--but if you want some recommended reading in the meantime....
  • Gretchen Rubin Strategies for establishing habits based on your tendency
  • David Allen: The Big Secret About Goal Setting
  • Mike Vardy: How to Review Your Year

Ask Me Anything

• Citric Acid Discussion continued....
  • Yes, citric acid is safe to use in containers you eat from. Here's an article from Livestrong
  • Color catchers- are another great idea. I use these sometimes too!
  • Citric acid works to set color in wool but does not work for cellulose fibers (cotton, e.g.).

On a Happy Note

• Funky Nutcracker- my oldest niece Emelyn was Nutcracker. and she did a great job! 
• We ended our Crafty Afternoon with a trip to Ann Taylor loft. Kris, Aila and I got a set of 3 bracelets with our initials for free! FUN!
• Enchanted Village: Aila and I squeeze in a visit and got to see Santa!
• Riley, Garret + Millie's Christmas Sleepover
• I auditioned for a local production of the musical Caberet and got in. Eeek! This is me knitting to calm my nerves before auditions
• Christmas!
• Star Wars!

  Quote of the Week "I just want to highlight one perspective I’ve found very useful over the years: The value of goals is not in the future they describe, but the change in perception of reality they foster, in the present." -David Allen of Getting Things Done     Bonus audio from Riley, Garret and Millie at the end. Spoiler alert- it gets especially silly at the end. It may not make a lot of sense because I started recording part way through a conversation but the kids' laughter (especially Garret's) is especially infectious and I wanted to share!   ------   For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

   

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 127 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Plum Deluxe, Imagined Landscape Designs, Nekozuki Knits   In this episode you heard a promo of Tightly Spun, a new podcast starting up in January 2018 by Emily Straw. Click the link for details!     Off the Needles Greedo

• Pattern: Greedo by Lucy Collins in the Star Wars Even More Crochet (kit)
• Yarn: Vanna's choice Sage (face), cloudbourn DK (held double) for turquoise, Vanna's choice mustard
• Hook: C

  Buddy Bunny

• Pattern: 4 Seasons Easter by Lydia Tresselt 6.77 US (3 patterns- chick, bunny and sheep)
• Yarn: Sprightly Worsted
• Hook: C

  VAA Hat

• Pattern: Turn a Square Hat by Jared Flood
• Yarn: Malibrigo Rios in the VAA Colorway
• Needles: US 5 for brim, US 7 for body
• Cast on 92 stitches (less than called for). I always do stockinette longer than called call for- 6 inches instead of 5 before decreases.

  Amethyst Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Amethyst Stripes Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

  Baker Street Hat

• Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Baker Street Colorway
• Needles: US 5 + US 7
• Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
• Cast on 96 sts with US 5
• 6 inches before starting decreases
• Finished hat- 56 grams | 42 grams remain

  Poppy Troll Hats

• Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
• Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
• Hook: H
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
• Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella:1-4 year old child size.

  Doll clothes for Riley’s doll Kelsey

• Gray and purple Poncho and matching Skirt
• Pink skirt and matching scarf
• Yarn: Fingering Weight Scraps
• Hook: C

On The Needles   Striped Worsted Boxy

• Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
• Needles: US 7 & US 9
• Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli
• Will have to edit these needle sizes when I cast this back on. I had to rip out because my sweater was 68 inches instead of 64. Will cast back on soon!

  Encore Turn a Square

• Yarn: Plymouth Encore Tweed Colorway 0217- Black with tan flecks
• Needles: US 5 + US 7
• Pattern: Turn a Square Hat (free) by Jared Flood
• Cast on 9 (thicker yarn)

  You've Been Elf'ed Socks

• Yarn: Cozy Knitter Bliss Base (80% SW Merino, 20% Nylon) You've been Elfed Colorway.
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

  Simple Star Ornaments

• Free pattern from the Persia Lou Website 
• Yarn: scraps of fingering, worsted and bulky
• Hooks: Various sizes from C up to match yarn size.
• Used Mod Podge Stiffy to stiffen

  Crafty Adventures  Photo Album Project with Kiddos:

• Simple Stories Sn@p Album 6x8 from Joann $18.99 (got on sale/with a coupon)
• Came with pages in there, divided page protectors and dividers with tab
• What I'd do differently next time: create the title page and left space for them to write their names and the years. Written more prompts for them to fill in the blanks. They were mostly interested in decorating not writing but that's understandable :)

  KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• Prizes!
  • Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon
  •  Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen
  • Bundle Up Betty Doll and outfit patterns from AndreSue Knits

  WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per F
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• November Participation Winners
• November Interception Winner
• December Interception Reminder

Life in Focus Happiness Project December Focus: Listen to my body

• Going really well. Concrete, simple, can adjust to a busy season and I had ideas at the ready. That seems the key to success.
• Tracking something I'm doing every. Here are some examples: Stretching, foam rolling, going for a walk, going to bed early, reading before bed to quiet my mind, tea, no stress knitting. I took a bath with epsom salt and candles.

  Ask me Anything In this episode I answered questions from Ravelry user knittergirlkatie about using citric acid to set color into sock yarn.

• I use the Knitmore Girls Tutorial
• I think it's helpful especially when using multiple colors/skeins in your project and especially for handdyed yarns. I haven't had as much bleeding/absorption with commercial dyed yarns but be careful with reds, blues, purples and neons.

  On a Happy Note

• We had a 4 kid holiday sleepover with Eme (13)/ Oisin (9), Will (10), and Aila (8). We celebrated Dan's birthday, decorated the tree and enjoyed pancakes!
• Emelyn's school concert. I had an extra sock my bag so gave it to Megg (Eme's mom) so she and knit together. It was lovely!
• A non-stressful holiday season. There are a couple more things I'd like to do and things I'd like to get, but shopping is mostly done. Waiting on a few things to come in by mail so I can wrap- which I'll enjoy doing. Turns out I'm a Grinchalong fail. Still making gifts because I can...and my heart keeps growing 3 sizes.

Quote of the Week   "Certainty is the opposite of growth."    --Kathleen Trotter on The Other F Word Podcast     Stay curious out there folks!   ------     For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

 

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 126 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• Ask Me Anything
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Queen City Yarn, Fancy Image Yarn and Prairie Bag Works     Off the Needles     Gerald

• Patterns used: Albert the Mouse by Bubbles and Bongo and Elephant & Piggie by Kristel Koevenig
• Yarn: Sprightly Worsted (from Craftsy)
• Hook: C

  Christmas Stockings

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• For: Manny, Juliana and Margaux
• New snowman appliqué pattern

  Spring Leaf Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Laura's Blue Socks

• Yarn: Mint Rain Hand Dyed Yarn in the Depths of Space Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5
• Pattern: OMG Heel

  Christmas Ribbon Socks

• Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist

  Kylo Ren

• Kylo Ren pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
• Hook: C
• For Will

  Admiral Ackbar

• Admiral Ackbar pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
• Hook: C
• For Will

  Poe Dameron

• Poe Dameron pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
• Hook: C
• For Garret

  BB8

• Pattern: BB8 pattern by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash + unknown white acrylic
• Hook: C
• For: Garret

  Lando Calrissian

• Pattern: Lando Calrissian by Lucy Collins' Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Yarn: Worsted/DK scraps
• Hook: C
• For Oisin

  Riley's iPhone 4 Case

• Pattern: improvised
• Yarn: Worsted/DK scraps in turquoise and gray
• Hook: C

  On the Needles   Striped Worsted Boxy

• Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
• Needles: US 7 & US 9
• Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli

  Poppy Troll Hats

• Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
• Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
• Hook: H
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
• Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella: 1-4 year old child size.

      VAA Hat

• Pattern: Turn a Square Hat by Jared Flood
• Yarn: Malibrigo Rios in the VAA Colorway
• Needles: US 5 for brim, US 7 for body
• Cast on 92 stitches (less than called for). I always do stockinette longer than called for. I think 7 inches.
• For my boss for Christmas. He mentioned in passing he needed a hat. Not in a beggy way... can't believe I've never knit for him. Good on the go project.

  Amethyst Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Amethyst Stripes Colorway
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Realized I had socks for all my usual suspects at Christmas except my BFF. Already had the first of these done from our trip to FL so I cast on the second. Past the heel. Knit on these at Nutcracker which is special and she'll appreciate. Millie also knit on these at Thanksgiving which is fun.

  Brainstorming

• To finish up Christmas knitting I need to finish the VAA hat and Patons Kroy socks
• Crochet Greedo
• Emelyn asked for a bunny instead of a sheep this year. This is the pattern I'm using from the 4 Seasons Easter Pattern by Lydia Tresselt.
• Riley asked for more clothes for her Chelsea doll I crocheted for her 2 years ago. I made her some clothes last year too.
• Won't likely be done by 12/1 for Knitmore Girls' Grinch along but I'll be doing it in spirit this year.
• My Indie GAL purchases
  • Vanilla is the New Black Socks by Anneh Fletcher
  • Purchased Ninilchik Swoncho Pattern by Caitlin Hunter
  • Veronika Cardigan by Shannon Cook

In My Travels I share about my adventures to Baltimore to take classes at Neighborhood Fiber Company with the incredibly talented Ann Weaver.   Some highlights!  

• Meeting Ann and soaking up a bit of her incredible knowledge!
• Nicki, Beverly and I all wore our Lush Cardigans and Electric Slide socks. So fun! Made the day seem even more special!
  
  
• I learned how to steek a sweater!
• I got to spend time with 2 of my listeners in the class. MDQuilter (Beth) and Kaikaknits2 (Kaarina). Photo of Kaarina and me in our half finished sweaters here:
• Lunch: Mount Vernon Marketplace
• Breakfast at 9a at R House with Mary (Kino Knits Designs + Podcast) and Ashley and Tara from Misadventures in Knitting Podcast

• Seeing Nicki's MEGAROW Shawl in person.
• Learning a no-sew zipper installation technique

  KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

Prizes:  

• Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon
•  Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen

  WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

  Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• November Interception: Travel Knits for the Touchdown (get your entries in before 11/30): Sponsored by Kino Knits
• December Interception: Off Sides Interception Sponsored by Fibernymph Dye Works

  Events

• The Down Cellar Studio Podcast will be kicking off a new year-long KAL for 2018.
• If you're a yarn dyer interested in sponsoring- click here for details!

  Life in Focus Happiness Project November: Gratefulness

• I've left positive reviews from podcasters I enjoy.
• I'm working on a photo/journaling book through Picaboo

  Ask Me Anything This time I answered a question from cynalune about how I got started podcasting and whether I'll make another crochet garment.  

• Check out my Crochet Favorites on Ravelry

On a Happy Note

• Yarn in the mail from Anotherhornfrog!
• Reordered tea from Plum Deluxe!
• $1 cards at Trader Joe's . Did you know?!
• Thanksgiving + my friend Laura visiting
• Aila made her debut in Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker. Tune in at the end of the show for audio of she and I talking about it a few weeks ago. (Aila is the black sheep in the center of the photo)
• Black Friday shopping with Mom and Laura. I'm nearly done shopping!

Quote of the Week   Stillness is our most intense mode of action. It is in our moments of deep quiet that is born every idea, emotion, and drive which we eventually honor with the name of action. We reach highest in mediation, and farthest in prayer. In stillness every human being is great. -Leonard Bernstein       ------   For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

       

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 125 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found here. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Plum Deluxe Tea, Yarn Love, and Sunsoaked Yarns   Off the Needles Piggie

• Pattern: Pippa Pig by Bubbles and Bongo on Etsy
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash
• Hook: C
• I'm modifying it to make it look like Piggie from Mo Willems books
  • Elephant and Piggie Amigurumi Pattern available on Ravelry

  Zipzip Bunny

• Pattern: Zipzip Bunny by Elif T (free crochet pattern)
• Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (gray)
• Hook: C

  Garret's 2 Part Socks

• Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Garret asked for knee socks that are in two pieces. Worked top down two at a time on two different needles, magic loop. US 1.5. Cast on 52. A couple inches down I decreased by 4 to get to 48. Allow enough room for his calf.
• Shortie socks also cast on 48, did OMG heel and 7 inch foot.
• Decreased down to 10 sts per needle for toe

On the Needles   Poppy Troll Hats

• Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
• Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
• Hook: H
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
• Carina: 5-10 year old child size Ella:1-4 year old child size.

  Christmas Stockings

• 3 more under way: 5 of 6 pieces done. Really thought all 6 were done until I went to block.
• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)
• For: Manny, Juliana and Margaux
• New snowman appliqué pattern

    Spring Leaf Stripes Socks  

• Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Brainstorming Inspiration from Rhinebeck:  

• Sunset Highway pullover by Caitlin French
• Veronika Cardigan by Shannon Cook
• Ninilchik Swoncho by Caitlin Hunter (check out the Google Sheet where you can test out colors). I bought Cloudborn Highland DK from Craftsy for this.
• Pavement by Veera Valimaki
• Morning Hugs Hat
• Tilted Cowl by Jenny F

From The Armchair

• Before you tune in, I invite you to take the quiz on Gretchen Rubin's website.
• This week I reviewed Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. I encourage you to check out her podcast, Happier.

Crafty Adventures

• I am working on my annual family photo calendars that I create and order through Picaboo. Last year they ran amazing deals on Cyber Monday so check them out.
• This year's process was easier because my photos are in Google Photos and are searchable. New to Google Photos? Check out the Heart of Photo Fabulous Class to learn about it (it's free!)

KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

    WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
    • Find the coupons here.
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• October Interception Winners
• October Participation Winners
• November Interception Details: Travel Knits for the Touchdown Sponsored by Kino Knits

  Contest News and Notes I'm excited to introduce my latest shawl design the MEGAROW Shawl now available on Ravelry for $6.00 US. (on sale for $3 until 11/25)   The MEGAROW Shawl is a top down crescent shawl that is designed for a main color, a gradient and a contrast color for the border. The body and border are done all in garter stitch. The gradient is worked in a very simple lace stitch. Short rows are worked in the garter sections so you don't even need to worry about picking up wraps.     Finished Size: 120 inches/305 cm wide and 18 in/46 cm deep at center   Yarn:

• Color A: 350 yards/320 meters (main color)
• Color B, C, D, E & F: 500 yards/ 457 meters (gradient)
• Color G: 260 yards (238 meters) (border)
•  Total: 1110 yards/1015 meter

Life in Focus Happiness Project- November: Gratefulness

• I am working on a photo book with journaling in Picaboo focused on gratefulness
• Leaving podcast reviews to show others I'm grateful.

On a Happy Note

• We had a blast at our family Halloween Party and Trick or Treating with the kids. There is some audio Millie wanted to record while we were trick or treating.
• I had a great time at a surprise party for my friend Melissa's birthday
• Dan and I enjoy dinner with my cousin from NH and my parents
• My good friend Laura is coming for Thanksgiving this year!
• The temps have really dropped and its properly cold enough to snuggle up in hand knits.

Quote of the Week “Do not look back. And do not dream about the future, either. It will neither give you back the past, nor satisfy your other daydreams. Your duty, your reward—your destiny—are here and now.” -- Dag Hammarskjold   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

 

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 124 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• Crafty Adventures
• Knitting in Passing
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• On a Happy Note

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Daisy Girl and Company & Atelier de Soyun   Off the Needles

• I helped my friend Nicki with bind off her MEGAROW shawl (my new shawl design that will be published soon). She taught me how to use a crochet hook as your right needle when doing a bind off it! It was so much fun, I did most of the bind off for her.
• Here's a link for a tutorial that looks similar to what she taught me.

On the Needles   Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Socks

• Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: FLK Heel

  Christmas Stockings for: Manny, Juliana and Margaux

• 3 more under way: 5 of 6 pieces done. Really thought all 6 were done until I went to block.
• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)

  Scrappy Halloweeny Socks

• Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Rhinebeck Socks

• Yarn: Andre Sue Sock Blank
• Needles: US 1 (2 mm)
• Pattern: TBD
• Started before 2016 rhinebeck. Didn't fit so I ripped back and brought it with me this year. I am using 64 stitches on US 1 seems to work best for me for sock blanks.

  Striped Worsted Boxy

• Yarn: Switzer's Fiber Mill (unknown base/length skeins)
• Needles: US 7 & US 9
• Pattern: Worsted Boxy by Joji Locatelli

  Brainstorming

• Aila Giraffe= done
• Millie: Elephant and Pig for Millie (she also wants a person)
• Emelyn: sheep
• Riley- not sure what she wants- I made her legwarmers already
• Will, Oisin, Garret- Star Wars guys (Garret also wants more Ninjas so I may do one or two of those if time allows.) Patterns from: Star Wars Even More Crochet
• Poppy Hats for Ella and Carina

  Crafty Adventures Mom, Megg and I finished up Emelyn's Marie Antoinette Costume so we shared more about the process. We were all so thrilled with the results- especially Eme! Knitting in Passing

Tune in to hear about some funny reactions I've gotten when knitting in public.

In My Travels 2017 Recap   Here's a video of photos from Rhinebeck!   KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• Finish 1 project during each/all of the 12 months of 2017 that you plan to gift for the 2017 holidays. Post 1 item (max) per month of the year. Prizes will be drawn randomly throughout the year from all posts in the FO thread.

  WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
• Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
• Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• November Interception Travel Knits for the Touchdown! Sponsored by Kino Knits

Events Fiber Festival of New England November 4 + 5; 9a-5; 9a-3p I won't be able to attend.    Vogue Knitting Live NYC: January 12-14, 2018

• I'll be taking three classes
• Off the Charts: Master Using and Creating Charts with Tin Can Knits-Friday 1/12 at 9a
• Grab Bag of Easy and Impressive Lace Stitch Patterns-Sat 1/13 at 2p
• Shawl Shapes on Sunday 1/14 at 9a

On a Happy Note

• Photo shoot with Emily. Tune in to the end for audio that Riley and Millie asked to record
• Halloween! Mom is surprising Millie who said she should be Luna girl (to Millie's Owelette)
• Mom's eBay store is so busy she's looking for help with listing. If you're looking to earn money on commission, email her at shopcreationsunlimited at gmail dot com
• Audio at the end of Emelyn and I discussing her Marie Antoinette costume back in September

  ------     Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

   

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 123 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:    

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• Crafty Adventures
• In my Travels
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Joy in Rugging, Woodsy and Wild. and Colorful Eclectic   Want to chat about this episode? Come chat in the Ravelry group. Link here Off the Needles   Gradient Stripes Sockhead hat 

• Yarn: The Periwinkle Sheep in Witch’s Cauldron Colorway and Woolbearer’s Gradient Set in Magenta (leftovers from my new crescent shawl).
• Needles: US 2 (2.75mm) and US 3 (3.25mm)
• Pattern: Sockhead Slouch Hat by Kelly McClure

On the Needles   Amethyst Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Paton’s Kroy Stripes in Amethyst Stripes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel Pattern

  Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Socks

• Yarn: Socks that Rock Lightweight in the Sugar Plum Fairy Dust Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: FLK Heel

  Christmas Stockings: 3 more under way.

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)

  Scrappy Halloweeny Socks

• Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Knitting on a new 3 color shawl design and swatched another idea!   Brainstorming

• Aila is going to be a lamb in Nutcracker. Ornament keepsake. Suggestions?
• Millie wants pig and elephant from Piggy and Gerald- crochet pattern suggestions?

From the Armchair Last episode I asked about ideas on doing a contrast color for a Fish Lips Kiss heel. Thanks Teena for telling me about this post in which the designer answers the question. Seems really simple. Crafty Adventures 

Mom, Megg, Emelyn and I made progress on Emelyn's epic Marie Antoinette costume for Halloween.

In My Travels

Dan and I visited with family in Largo, FL. I also visited these yarn shops:

• Stash, St. Petersburg
• A Good Yarn, Sarasota.

KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

Prizes you could win: Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon & Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen     WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the 1st Quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Atelier De Soyun  Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love       Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• Announced this year's 10 Grand Prize Packs
• Announced Kick it Off with Color- Sept Interception Winners (thank you to sponsor Yarn Love) and September Huddle/Instagram Winners
• Don't forget about our Ornament Interception which runs through 10/31. Thank you to Sponsor: Knitters Brewing Company

     Events  

• Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck NY
• Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus Kingston, N.Y.
• NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY

Life in Focus Happiness Project:  October: Time & Energy

• Ironically too busy to focus on this. Have been really focused on using my Evernote for GTD system. Reviewing it regularly and making sure I know what I need to do; it has definitely helped me keep my sanity.

On a Happy Note

• Woodchopping Weekend- tractor rides. delicious fall foods. 
• Dinner for Dad’s birthday at a great new local restaurant.  
• Florida Trip highlights  
• Millie sleepover!

Quote of the Week Most misunderstandings in the world could be avoided if people would simply take the time to ask, ‘What else could this mean?’” ― Shannon L. Alder     Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

 

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 122 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• From the Armchair
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Imagined Landscapes and Fibernymph Dyeworks   Off the Needles New Crescent Shape Shawl

• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Yarn: Main Color: Baah Ja Lolla, Gradient set from Woolbearers, Border in Periwinkle Sheep
• Pattern: a new design I have out to testers now. I hope to release it in October.

Dragon Belly Shawl

• Pattern: Dragon Belly by Johanna Lindahl
• Hook: J-6.0 mm
• Yarn: Jill Draper Makes Stuff- Hudson (worsted) in the Raspberry Beret colorway (2 skeins- 480 yards)
• My 1st crochet shawl
• I need to wash an block it and will do a citric acid soak. Details on how to use Citric Acid to set your yarn on the Knitmore Girls website.

On The Needles Scrappy Halloweeny Socks

• Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: TBD

  Spring Leaf Stripes Socks

• Yarn: Paton's Kroy Spring Leaf Stripes
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Christmas Ribbon Socks

• Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist

Holly Jolly Christmas Socks

• Yarn: Dancing Dog Dyeworks Twist Sock in the Holly Jolly colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist

  Poppy Troll Hat x2

• Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
• Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
• Hook: H
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink:
• Carina: 5-10 year old child zie
• Ella:1-4 year old child size.
• Both hats done. Earflaps on. Ears made. Need to sew on. Wash them. then will add eyes and hair

From the Armchair

• I talked about this article: What The Health Review
  • Bottom line: the What the Health Documentary cites sources that aren't reliable research studies and is, if nothing else, at least cause for a second look.
• Check out this great new audio podcast: (mis)adventures in knitting- Audio Podcast hosted by Ashley + Tara, based out of Baltimore, MD
• In the next episode, I am going to talk about the Four Tendencies Book by Gretchen Rubin and nd knowing our own tendency can help us accomplish our crafty goals... Invite you to take the quiz on Gretchen Rubin's website before the next episode so you know your tendency.

Crafty Adventures

• I bought a dress and petticoat from Goodwill for $20 to make Emelyn a Marie Antoinette halloween costume for her last year of Trick or Treating.

  KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

    WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP that you started June 30th or earlier but haven't yet finished within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
  • Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors! Colorful Eclectic Daisy Girl and Company Fancy Image Yarn Fibernymph Dye Works Inner Yarn Zen Joy in Rugging Knit Style Yarns Knitted Wit Knitters Brewing Company Knitty Kitty Bags Mekamika Nekozuki Knits Plum Deluxe Tea Prairie Bag Works Queen City Yarn Sunsoaked Yarns Woodsy and Wild Yarn Love   Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• Monday Night Scavenger Hunt
• Reminder about September Interception sponsored by Yarn Love Shop
• Announced the October Interception sponsored by Knitters Brewing Company. Details can be found here.

Life in Focus Happiness Project: September--- Learn new things

• I learned a lot from making my first crochet shawl.
• Trying the FLK heel was a great learning moment for me. I want to try another heel in the near future. What do you recommend? Vanilla is the New Black?

October: Time & Energy

• Goal: Look at ways I'm wasting time and energy & reset.
• Think hard about what I do. Ask "why" more often. When I have an automatic thought- don't just act on instinct. See what really makes sense. Get off auto pilot.

On a Happy Note

• Took a Friday off to go Outlet shopping with my best friend, Kris!
• I brought my niece Emelyn to Stitch House during the Greater Boston Yarn Crawl. She knit on her cowl for a little bit before we headed north to go apple picking.
• Met Kris, Matt, Aila and Will for an unseasonably warm day of Apple picking at Applecrest in Hampton Falls NH. Every year they add something- this year it was a sunflower maze. So beautiful. Only regret was not taking photos earlier in the day. They started turning away from the sun as the day went on.
• Congrats to Mom and Dad on their 40th anniversary!
• Finished my first session of Hiit Classes at the gym near work. It was brutal but I definitely feel stronger. I was able to sign up for the 3 out of the next 8 I'm able to go to.
• Ordered 12x12 lay flat photo book Picaboo and love it!
• My grandmother is on Facebook and sent me this cute message the other day! Made my day!
• I got a haircut. Loving this shorter look.
• My niece Aila is going to be performing in the Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker this winter as a lamb.

Quote of the Week “Children think not of what is past, nor what is to come, but enjoy the present time, which few of us do.” -- Jean de La Bruyère  

________________

Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

   

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 121 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Brainstorming
• From the Armchair
• Knitting in Passing
• KAL News
• Events
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Knitty Kitty Bags, MediaPeruana, Knitters Brewing Company   Off the Needles Erik's Christmas Stocking

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)

On the Needles   Frankensock #7

• Yarn: sock yarn scraps
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Scrappy Halloweeny Socks

• Yarn: Leftovers of black, white, gray, orange, yellow, tan
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Cast on first sock

  Christmas Ribbon Socks

• Yarn: Sunsoaked Yarns Sock 80/20 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the Christmas Ribbon Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: Fish Lips Kiss Heel by Sox Therapist
• This was my #DCSpigskinparty17 Cast on!

  Garret's 2 Part Socks

• Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

  Poppy Troll Hat x2

• Carina's Hat + Ella's Hat
• Pattern: Poppy Troll Hat by  Tawnya Myers (free crochet pattern)
• Hook: H
• Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in 2 colors of pink

New Crescent Shape Shawl

• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Crescent shawl that calls for 1 main color, a gradient set and a contrast color for the border. Over 800 yards (further details TBD)
• If you are interested in Test knitting, please email me (downcellarstudio at gmail dot com

Brainstorming Like you, I've been prepping for Pigskin Party '17, by finding all of the things I've purchased from our amazing sponsors (and ordering some more)

• I love my Patriots Team bags and my football notions pouch from Danie of One Twisted Tree.
• Freckled Whimsy- was offering pre-orders of the "Rock you like a hurricane"- with some of the profits going to Hurricane Harvey relief
• I pulled out some Mint Rain self striping yarn
• I love my Colorful Eclectic Splash Pad Colorway and have some plans to crochet it into a shawl.
• I'm thinking of turning some Ross Farm yarn into a hat
• I have a couple Pearl and Plum Bags and Beautiful Syster project bags I'll put back in the rotation
• My Plum Deluxe Teas are ready to go now that it's getting cooler- Coconut Macaroon and Mindful Morning black teas are my favorite!
• I'd like to knit the Never Not Gnoming Pattern and an ornament from the Victorian Yuletide Ornament ebook
• My gallon jug of Unicorn Clean lives in the bathroom ready for woolly washing!

Crochet shawls I'm debating

• Blurre by Deanne Ramsay $6.00
• Summer Morning by Yulia Tkachenko (free)
• Bella Vita Shawl by Wilma Westerberg (free)

  Veronika Cardigan by Shannon Cook; $6.95 US     GoodReader class: I am going to begin working on a course I can offer to those who want to learn how to use GoodReader for knitting without having to come to an in-person class with me. Please come share your feedback and tell me how you learn best. From the Armchair   I learned a lot about pleasure versus happiness from these podcasts/articles about/by Dr. Robert Lustig  

• The Model Health Show:Episode 240 Happiness Vs. Pleasure and the Hacking of the American Mind with Dr. Robert Lustig
• Related article about Dr. Lustig's new book in The Guardian.
• Leonard Lopate Show: How Corporations Changed Our Brains

Knitting in Passing  

My cousin Patrick loved the stocking I made for his new daughter. When he opened it, my cousin Grant commented how he has one but his younger sisters don't which made him sad. I signed up to make some for them too!

KAL News 12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

  New Prizes:

• Thundertwist hat from Greg Cohoon
•  Victorian Yuletide Ornaments- 1-5 by Jenn Sheelen

WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.
• At the top of the thread you can click on "Projects" to see what everyone has been working on. 532 projects that have been worked on, many finished since January! That's amazing.

  Pigskin Party KAL

• Wondering what this crazy KAL is? Check out this page which gives you the best overview with all necessary links. There's also a helpful "Start Here" Thread in the Ravelry Group
• Check out the Rules but if you still have questions, come over to the Questions thread and ask. We’re happy to help.
• Put your Name on the Roster then claim your spot in the End Zone Dance Thread where you'll track your points.
• For every 100 points, you'll earn an entry into the drawing for the Grand Prizes
  • Continue to update this with all of the points you earn during the KAL
• Check out our amazing Sponsors; if you use their products, you'll earn more points per FO
  • Find the coupons here.
  • Some of our Pro Shop Level Sponsors will be creating exclusive items for Pigskin Party participants. They may come out at different times and will likely be limited in quantities, so keep your eyes on this Exclusive Items thread in the group for all the latest news
• Scope out the prizes! Some will be given out during the KAL; some will be part of the Grand Prizes.
• Don’t forget to use #DCSPigskinParty17 on Instagram so we check out what you’re doing and you can be eligible for participation prizes.

Thank you to our Pro Shop Sponsors!

• Colorful Eclectic
• Daisy Girl and Company
• Fancy Image Yarn
• Fibernymph Dye Works
• Inner Yarn Zen
• Joy in Rugging
• Knit Style Yarns
• Knitted Wit
• Knitters Brewing Company
• Knitty Kitty Bags
• Mekamika
• Nekozuki Knits
• Plum Deluxe Tea
• Prairie Bag Works
• Queen City Yarn
• Sunsoaked Yarns
• Woodsy and Wild
• Yarn Love

  Key Details Mentioned in this Episode:

• Over 240 people on Roster as of 9/12
• A few things: you do not have to watch Football to participate. You can craft anytime not just during football games. You can post your points for your FOs in the End Zone dance thread anytime you want. Don't have to do it immediately after you finish.
• Favorite Post in End Zone Dance Thread: Instructions (click gray heart- find it in your Favorites in your Notebook)
• Florence of Designs of Acadia has created a Pigskin Party Logo Tote Get yours today. They're only $12.
• Monday Night Scavenger Hunt
  • Every Monday night Lisa will post a clue to an item by one of our sponsors. You have until the following Monday night to look up that clue and find the item.
• Kick It Off With Color : Our First Interception. Thank you to Sponsor: Yarn Love Yarn
  • Most football teams have 2-3 colors in their uniforms! Let's get inspired by all that color and get some colorful projects off the needles/hooks.
  • Requirements:
    • Finish a project of at least 50 yards before 9/30 that contains at least 2 different colors
    • The 2 colors can be found within 1 yarn. You can use multiple yarns. Totally up to you.
    • If you have to ask if its two separate colors it's probably not. Blue and light blue are not two different colors. Blue and orange are two separate colors.
    • These colors do not have to be your team colors, NFL colors or even any sports teams colors. It's just the kicking off point for color combinations but don't limit yourself.
    • Project can be knit, crocheted, woven, spun or machine knit.
    • Max of 2 entries per person.

Prizes:

• 2 lucky winners (pulled by Random Number Generator from this thread) will get to choose a skein of yarn of his/her choice from Yarn Love Yarn

Events

• Adirondack Wool and Arts Festival: September 23 & 24
• VT Sheep and Wool: September 30 & October 1, 2017
• Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck NY
• Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus Kingston, N.Y.
• NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY

Life in Focus

September Happiness Project: Learning

• Labor Day free streaming on Craftsy
• Thanks to  knittykitties  for gifting me a Creative Bug 3 month subscription. I can't wait to try out a few classes.
• Thanks to DCAlaneknits for posting in the Episode 120 chat thread with this link to Mother Bear Face Tutorials: 2 Knit Lit Chicks Podcast.
• I'm looking forward to watching and learning about the Philosopher Wool Technique for 2 handed colorwork knitting. Planning ahead for colorwork baby sweater I want to cast on soon
• I watched a Podcasting 101 on Creative Live (9/11).
• Crochet Shawl (will be a first for me)
• Fish Lip Kiss Heel (will be a new heel for me)
• Thank you to Lisa for letting me borrow her spindle and some fiber and teaching me basics so I could play with spinning at home.
• Won't get all of these done in next 15 days or so, but having found resources and prepped things out will set me on the right path and I'm really enjoying this focus.

  On a Happy Note

• My cousin Kara's wedding. So much fun! Wore my new black lace dress. Thanks for all of the compliments!
• HIIT training at gym. Really hard, but the 30 minutes goes by really fast. twice a week for 4 weeks. In the third week now.
• Fall coming. Very cool in the mornings here. My parents pool is closed (sniff) and I've had two weekends at home to get things done. Feels good. Mostly why I've gotten so much shawl design work done.
• Family dinner and campfire time!
• Gretchen Rubin's new book The Four Tendencies was released on 9/12. I was lucky to get tickets to the first stop on her book tour that night in Cambridge. Went with my friend Kim. We've read all of Gretchen's books, listen to her Happier Podcast religiously and use her framework all the time at work. As project managers we don't have staff who report to us. Have to use influence and persuasion to get others to do things for us.

  Quote of the Week “Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply. When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with the intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words.” - Roy T. Bennett    

------------

Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 120 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:  

• Off the Needles
• On the Needles
• Crafty Adventures
• KAL News
• Events
• Contest, News & Notes
• Life in Focus
• On a Happy Note
• Quote of the Week

  Off the Needles   Saco River Socks

• Yarn: Skeindalous Yarn in the Sophia Base (MCN) in the Wesley’s Sweater color way (
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• 64 grams-  256.3 meters

  Gray + Black Socks

• Yarn: Bergere de France Goomy 50 in the Imprim Gris colorway
• Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• 69 grams-  296.5 meters

  Black/Gray Patons Socks

• Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Eclipse Stripes Colorway
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• 75 grams-  227.7 meters

My Stash Dash Total (as compared to last year)

• 2017 Stash Dash Projects: 6,888 Meters in 19 projects
• 2016 Stash Dash Projects -- 11,351 meters in 40 projects

  Frankensocks #5 and #6

• Yarn: sock yarn scraps
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

Reese's Christmas Stocking

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)

On the Needles   Erik's Christmas Stocking

• Pattern: Granny Square Christmas Stockings from Family Circle Magazine 1977
• Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White
• Hook: F (3.75 mm)

  Frankensock #7

• Yarn: sock yarn scraps
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams

    Garret's 2 Part Socks

• Yarn: White Birch Fiber Arts Merino/Nylon in the Nothing Says Screw You Like a Rainbow
• Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)
• Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams
• Garret asked for knee socks that are in two pieces. Worked top down two at a time on two different needles, magic loop. US 1.5. Navy Cuff (Cascade Heritage Sock), then rainbow. Cast on 52. A couple inches down I decreased by 4 to get to 48. Allow enough room for his calf.

 

Crafty Adventures  

• Aila made a memory/memento box out of scrapbooking supplies and a photo calendar
• Riley, Aila and Millie all made tulle tied flip flops: Here's a link to a tutorial that is similar to what we did.
• Aila painted some pottery at the South Shore Pottery Shop
• I am nearly finished with my January-June Project Life Pages!

KAL News   12 Months to Christmas KAL

• Click here to find about more about this KAL.
• Check out: Chat Thread & FO Thread 
• The 12 Months to Christmas KAL is a craft-a-long that helps you prepare for the busy winter holiday season. Complete gift projects each month (or just in the months that you choose) so you don’t have to scramble in December. Find some cool new gift ideas, cheer each other on, and we’ll provide some motivation in the form of the potential to win prizes!

  WIP’ing 2017 in the Butt

• Declare a WIP from the first quarter of 2017 or earlier within the first 5 days of the month, posting a photo of it in the thread. Finish the project by the end of the month, update your post with your FO photo and you'll be eligible to win a Ravelry downloadable pattern of your choosing up to $8.

    4th Annual Pigskin Party KAL     Details Discussed on This Episode:

• Rules
• Pre-Game Chat
• Roster
• The Draft
• Prize Thread + Coupon Thread
• Full list of sponsors will be announced soon but you’ll get sneak peek by looking at the Prize Thread.
• Check out the Exclusive items by our Pro Shop Sponsors.

Events

• Adirondack Wool and Arts Festival: September 23 & 24
• VT Sheep and Wool: September 30 & October 1, 2017
• Needles Up : Friday October 20 from 3-6p  conference center of the Delamater Inn, Rhinebeck NY
• Indie Untangled:  Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  The Best Western Plus Kingston, N.Y.
• NY Sheep and Wool: October 19-22 at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY

Contest, News and Notes I announced the winner of the Yeksa Shawl by Janine McCarty of the Yarn and Ewe Girl Podcast Life in Focus

My September Plan: Learning 

• I'm thinking about taking a Craftsy class, trying new knitting or crochet techniques, taking out some library books. Do you have any suggestions from me?

On a Happy Note  

• We saw America and 3 Dog Night at South Shore Music Circus.
• My friends came to visit for the weekend and we celebrated my grandmother's birthday.
• I enjoyed the Solar Eclipse, but even funnier is this video Total Eclipse of the Heart Literal Video.
• I met up with some knitting friends at Slum Brew in Assembly Row Somerville. 
• We've had lots of summer fun with the nieces and nephews. Sleepovers, crafts, dance camps etc!
• Dan and I kayaked the North River. The first half was amazing. The rest was a struggle but we survived! Ha!
• The kids contracted lice and so kindly shared it with me. Sigh. If you ever have the misfortune, my recommendation is to go to a professional place like this instead of using the drugstore shampoos!
• Signed up for hiit training for 4 weeks with my work friends. We survived!

Quote of the Week "Happiness and misery consist in a progression towards better or worse; it does not matter how high up or low down you are, it depends not on this, but on the direction in which you are tending."   -- Samuel Butler   Bonus audio from the nieces at the end! ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information:

• Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group
• Twitter: Instagram & Periscope: BostonJen1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio
• Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio!