Welcome to Episode 7 of the Fire and Fiber Podcast! In this episode, I’m sharing my full test knit review of the Best Dress Vest – from first swatch to final stitch. If you’re considering knitting this stylish layering piece or curious about the test knitting process, this one’s for you. 🧶

I talk about:

• My experience as a test knitter for the Best Dress Vest

• Sizing, fit, and ease of following the pattern

• Yarn recommendations & what I used

• Mods I made (and why!)

• Tips for successful test knitting

• Final thoughts & whether I’d knit it again

Whether you're a seasoned knitter or thinking about joining your first test knit, this episode offers helpful insights, honest feedback, and all the cozy vibes.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment if you’ve knit the Best Dress Vest or have questions about test knitting!

👉 Follow me on Instagram: @fireandfibermakes

test knit review, best dress vest, knitting podcast, fire and fiber podcast, test knitting feedback, knitwear review, pattern review, knitting tips, handmade wardrobe, knitwear design, beginner knitter advice

In this episode of the Fire and Fiber Podcast, we’re debunking 6 common misconceptions about knitting that could be holding you back from enjoying the craft to the fullest! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, these myths are important to know. Plus, we’re diving into the importance of LYS Day (Local Yarn Store Day) — an amazing event for connecting with your local yarn shops, discovering new materials, and building a supportive knitting community.

Tune in to learn about:

• The truth behind popular knitting myths

• Why knitting is for everyone, regardless of skill level

• How to make the most of LYS Day and its significance

• Supporting local yarn stores and growing the knitting community

🎧 Listen now to uncover the truth about knitting and why LYS Day should be on your calendar!

Mentioned in this episode:

Sauble Tank https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sauble-tank

Estelle Linocott https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/estelle-linocott

Mooncat Freshly Bitten https://www.mooncat.com/products/freshly-bitten?_pos=1&_sid=14a4cc8dc&_ss=r

Cheekbone Beauty https://www.cheekbonebeauty.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAByVKbWhDgVGI3KGsjlJC4U9asF3t&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5azABhD1ARIsAA0WFUEh4dU6Aijeot352cDiBPx1affc0YccRtyZVE13BtVxHRHro308W5oaAnoLEALw_wcB

Native Knitter https://www.nativeknitter.com/

Black Purl Magic https://blackpurlmagic.com/

Bearhouse Knits https://www.bearhouseknits.com/

Ali Makes Everything https://www.youtube.com/@AliMakesEverything

#KnittingPodcast #KnittingTips #LYSDay #KnittingMyths #LocalYarnStoreDay #KnittingCommunity #SupportLocalYarnStores #KnittingPodcastEpisode

✈️🧶 Planning a trip but can’t leave your knitting behind? In this episode of Fire and Fiber, we’re diving into the ultimate vacation knitting essentials—from choosing the right projects and tools to packing tips that make travel knitting a breeze. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or just taking a weekend road trip, this episode will help you keep your needles clicking stress-free.🎧 Listen in as we cover:-The best travel-friendly yarns and patterns-How to organize your knitting bag for TSA approval-Must-have tools for knitting on the go-Tips for staying inspired (and untangled) while traveling🌍 Perfect for knitters on the move, this episode is full of smart, packable ideas to keep your creativity flowing—wherever you roam.🔔 Subscribe to Fire and Fiber for weekly episodes on knitting, creativity, and fiber community life. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Vacation Context03:09 Vacation Knitting Essentials05:49 Tools and Techniques for Traveling Knitters08:58 Yarn Selection and Project Planning11:39 Reflections on Travel and Community Support13:53 Vacation Reflections and Knitting Essentials17:40 Finished Projects and Knitting Challenges21:30 Future Projects and Final Thoughts22:55 New ChapterMentioned In This Episode:Della Q LYS Oh Snap Bag https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/collections/dellaq-project-bags/products/della-q-lys-day-oh-snaps  @jimmybeanswool  Knit Pro Japanese Bamboo DPN  @KnitProeu   @KnitProUSA  https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/knitters-pride-bamboo-double-pointed-needles?_pos=1&_sid=49b7c7836&_ss=rChiao Goo Fixed Circular Needles  @chiaogoo2390  https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/chiao-goo-premium-red-lace-fixed-circular-needles?_pos=1&_sid=33cf38c5f&_ss=r&variant=39720378236991Twice Sheared Sheep Sock Ruler (The Knitting Loft) https://theknittingloft.ca/products/twice-sheared-sheep-sock-ruler-sock-sizing-bracelet-ruler?srsltid=AfmBOorXthJuapIThmixUu42hbQ-ODoPhBQOlxkjsJHTGxtRupoHyA--  @TwiceShearedSheep   @theknittingloft6226  Fiskars Folding Scisors https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/fiskars-folding-scissors-2996589p.html  @FiskarsInEMEA   @Fiskars1649  Knit Pro Zing DPNs https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/knitters-pride-zing-double-pointed-needles?_pos=1&_sid=4de0e095d&_ss=rKollage Square DPNs https://kollagesquare.com/products/double-pointed-needles/  @kollagesquareneedles2358  Addi Skacel Rocket https://handknityarnstudio.com/collections/skacel-addi  @handknityarnstudio5775  Filcolana Arwetta https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/filcolana-arwetta?_pos=1&_sid=33e5ac2f4&_ss=r  @filcolana399  Lang Jawoll https://flyingsquirrelfineyarns.com/products/lang-jawollArea 51 Fibres https://area51fibres.com/  @LANGYARNS  Regia Tweed https://truenorthyarn.com/products/regia-4-ply-tweed-100g-0030-tomato Tripod https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09XHZ8F7F?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen Stick https://thekshop.ca/products/beauty-of-joseon-matte-sun-stick-mugwort-camelia?srsltid=AfmBOooLMQTmwCi-TIgq2I7QSFwB9wdTBMM-TMqNgIqmSg8DFuFWg_Mc  @beautyofjoseon_official  Estelle Linocott https://thecreativeknitter.com/products/estelle-linocott?variant=43875236708543 Sauble Tank Kuria Knits https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sauble-tank#VacationKnitting #KnittingPodcast #TravelKnitting #FireAndFiber #KnittersOnTheGo #CanadianKnitters #SockKnitting #HowToKnitSocks #CanadianKnitting #ElbowsUp #CanadianKnitter #KnitSocks #EstelleYarn #LangYarn #FlyingSquirrelYarns #GaltHouseofYarn

In this episode of Fire and Fiber, I dive into my favorite Canadian indie dyed yarn brands that offer unique, high-quality fibers for your next knitting or crochet project. From bold, vibrant colors to soft, luxurious textures, these indie dyers are creating yarns that will elevate your crafting experience. Tune in as I share the stories behind these talented dyers, what makes their yarns stand out, and how you can incorporate them into your own projects. If you're a yarn lover or just discovering the world of indie dyed fibers, this episode is a must-listen! From Full Moon Fibers to Bear House Knits, I'll showcase a diverse range of products while advocating for ethical consumerism and community support.

Key Highlights:

• Discover the best Canadian indie dyed yarn brands

• Learn about the artistry and passion behind small-batch yarns

• Tips for choosing the perfect yarn for your projects

• Where to shop for high-quality, handmade yarns

Don’t forget to subscribe and follow for more yarn inspiration and creative crafting tips!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Supporting Local Businesses

01:05 Spotlight on Full Moon Fibers

04:00 Exploring Hoko Hoko

05:30 Ginger Snap Yarns

06:27 The Yarn Therapist

08:26 Koigu Yarns

08:57 Songbird Yarn

11:01 Polka Dot Creek

12:12 Area 51 Fibers

13:46 Leo and Roxy

15:04 Timber Yarns

16:14 Bear House Knits

18:15 Wonder Twin Fibre Arts

19:33 Conclusion

In this episode:

https://fullmoonfibres.ca/

https://hokohokofibreco.com/

https://gingersnapthat.com/

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/TheYarnTherapist

https://www.koigu.com/

https://songbirdfibres.ca/

https://polkadotcreekyarn.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoohBRCqWuLKpfwGtHmc2d-j8LkOEhMISz_TdAFGBt090b5JzjNY

https://area51fibres.com/

https://www.leoandroxyyarnco.com/

https://timberyarns.com/

https://www.bearhouseknits.com/

https://wondertwinfibrearts.com/

#CanadianYarn #IndieDyedYarn #HandDyedYarn #YarnLovers #KnittingCommunity #CrochetCommunity #IndieYarnDyers #HandmadeYarn #FiberArt #YarnAddict #CraftingWithYarn #SupportIndieDyers #YarnInspiration #KnittingPodcast #CrochetPodcast #YarnStash #FiberCrafts #YarnShop #CanadianCrafters #KnittingAndCrochet #CreativeCrafts

In this conversation, Audrey delves into the intricacies of sock knitting, covering essential techniques and the anatomy of a sock. She explains the importance of each component, from the cuff to the toe, and provides insights into various knitting methods, including the use of circular needles and the construction of the heel and gusset. The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding sock anatomy for successful knitting.

00:00 Introduction to Sock Knitting Masterclass

00:28 Tips and Tricks for Successful Sock Knitting

00:29 Understanding Sock Anatomy

02:42 Knitting Techniques and Preferences

03:03 Choosing the Right Knitting Needles

04:14 Exploring Needle Types and Their Benefits

04:32 Introduction to Sock Knitting

05:52 Working in the Round: Techniques and Tips

06:20 Getting Started with DPNs

07:07 Tips and Tricks for Seamless Knitting

07:33 Introduction to Knitting Techniques

07:33 Advanced Stitch Management

07:55 Introduction to Knitting Techniques

08:19 Joining in the Round

08:21 Joining Stitches in the Round

08:46 Cuff Preferences and Ribbing Techniques

09:10 Introduction to Sock Knitting

09:15 Mastering the Cuff Down Technique

09:17 Introduction to Sock Knitting

09:27 Mastering the Basics of Sock Construction

09:31 Introduction to Sock Knitting Masterclass

sock knitting, knitting techniques, sock anatomy, knitting patterns, heel flap, gusset, toe grafting, knitting tips, circular knitting, yarn types

In this engaging podcast episode, Audrey shares her passion for yarn and thrifting, discussing her journey into knitting and crochet. She explores various projects, her favorite yarns, and the challenges of finishing work. Audrey also touches on the importance of size inclusivity in patterns and her personal experiences with crafting. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with her content.

00:00 Introduction to Fire and Fiber Podcast

01:19 Audrey's Knitting Journey and ADHD

01:44 Finished Objects: The Avena Sweater

03:57 Exploring the Matcha Mood Shawl

06:30 Size Inclusivity in Knitting Patterns

09:12 Thrifting Yarn: A Sustainable Approach

09:20 Thrifting for Yarn: A Passionate Pursuit

15:09 Beauty and Self-Care: Personal Recommendations

17:36 Thrilling Finds: Thrifting Adventures

19:59 Media Recommendations: Podcasts and Books

Links:

Piper's Knits https://www.pipersknits.com/

Kollage Square Needles https://kollagesquare.com/?gad_source=1

A Whimsical Wool Yarn Co https://awhimsicalwoodyarnco.com/

Lava Girl Knits https://www.instagram.com/lavagirlknits/?hl=en

"Matcha Mood" by Melanie Berg https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/matcha-mood

The Yarn Therapist https://www.instagram.com/yarn_therapist/?hl=en

Estelle Double Knit https://www.galthouseofyarn.ca/products/estelle-dk

Avena Pattern https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/avena-6

Drea Renee Knits https://www.dreareneeknits.com/

"Medicine Unbundled" by Gary Geddes https://www.amazon.ca/Medicine-Unbundled-Journey-Minefields-Indigenous/dp/177203164X

Hedley Thomas https://hedleythomas.com/

Bronwyn Podcast

The Teacher's Pet Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-teachers-pet/id1385379989

Hypochlorous Spray https://e11ement.ca/products/8-oz-face-and-skin-spray?variant=40916383072435&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwm7q-BhDRARIsACD6-fXKU-yVnFpl1f09X9HgkSCveaZLwV5DP53ERC1Q7r3FKG1OGU3ANF4aAiQgEALw_wcB

Carpe Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick https://ca.mycarpe.com/products/underarm?variant=39774957535365