Join us to talk about all sorts of crafty goodness. To start, Lee and Hannah sit down to discuss the idea of Process vs. Product knitting. While this spectrum of approaches is true for almost all crafting, they do a deep dive into their experiences wrestling with this concept from the perspective of their own knitting queues. Stay tuned to find out whether you tend toward Process or Product or, as they've each discovered in themselves, somewhere in between. 

Next, Stacey and Hillary pop in to share some of our most popular patterns. Did you know that for the past 9 years or so Knit Picks has worked hard to bring you roughly two new pattern collections every six weeks?! That's SO MANY patterns you can't find anywhere else and we love talking about our favorites. Listen along to discover a new pattern or, if you're a super fan, we suggest you jot down a quick list of YOUR favorite patterns to see how many are on our list as well!

Mentioned in This Episode:Baby Leggings by Allison Griffith Hawthorne  Independent Designer Patterns  Oak Forest Shawl by Ksenia Naidyon Cinna Top by Ksenia Naidyon Lindy Chain  Serendipity  Teasel Shrug  Paragon  Diamond Rain Shawl  Cindersmoke Blanket Shawl  Isn't It Midnight Throw Protea Sweater Pathways Textured Knits Collections Eldfell Pullover Sorrel Aloft Kaliya Wrap Adira Stroll Mini Pack Gloss

Timestamps:0:00 Hannah's welcome 1:08 Hannah and Lee 17:23 Stacey and Hillary 29:22 The Credits

Today, we're dedicating an entire episode to the subject of sock knitting! Whether you're a seasoned pro and socks are your very favorite thing, or a new knitter contemplating casting on for your very first pair, this episode is for you! 

Lee and Hannah spend time talking about all of the sock yarns they've developed over the years. Colorful, hardwearing and in a range of lovely fibers, sock yarn is one of our very favorite things to develop behind the scenes. Listen along as they compare and contrast soft Stroll lines with Hawthorne's rugged and complex colorways. You might even discover a new-to-you skein to try!

Stacey invites Rosalyn Keys (you may know her as Rozknitz on Instagram) on to the podcast to talk about her PASSION for sock knitting. We met Roz at a knitting trade show years ago and love seeing what she comes up with next. She's one of our favorite super fans and is always the first to snag a skein of new sock yarn to use on her sock knitting machine. Don't know what that is? Stay tuned to find out! Also, Roz was part of the design team that developed the last round of striped Felici colors too!

As always, happy knitting!

Mentioned in This Episode: Stroll Hawthorne Felici Static Capretta Gloss Fingering Muse Bare Eco Superwash Alpaca Lee's socks in two colorways of Felici held together  Lee's socks in Felici & Stroll held together  Lee's sweater in Stroll held triple  Helpful tutorial for triple-stranding from one yarn ball  Sweater Lee knit in Hawthorne held together with Aloft  Sweater Lee knit in Hawthorne speckle held double  Hat Lee knit in Felici held double and striped between two colorways  Cowl Lee knit with Hawthorne held triple striped with Capretta held triple  Sock Yarn Celebration Sock Knitting Machine Roz on Ravelry Roz on Instagram

Timestamps: 0:00 Welcome with Hannah 1:32 Hannah and Lee talk sock yarn 23:30 Stacey talks to Roz 36:07 Credits

Every day, the Knit Picks team comes together to dig deep into our craft and celebrate our favorite materials. From yarn to needles, we choose everything with care and work to bring our very favorite things right to your door. Today, we're taking a new look at yarn from some different angles.

Join Lee and Hannah as they talk about their experience making their own yarn. Whether you're interested in spinning skeins from fleece or making your yarn from recycled materials like t-shirts, they touch on a variety of techniques and share some of their hard earned tips and tricks for getting fantastic results. 

Next up, you'll also hear some new voices. Courtney and Kate join Hannah from Kelbourne Woolen's to share some of their favorite things about running a yarn business. You can find their lovely, classic wool Germantown yarn on the Knit Picks website and today you'll get a little behind the scenes interview with these fantastic crafters. Make sure to stay tuned to get a sneak peek at what Kelbourne has coming up in 2021 too!

Mentioned In This Episode:KP Wood Yarn Spindle  Wool of the Andes Roving  Bare Stroll Roving KP Spinning Wheel  Fantasia Beginner Spinning Kit  Lee's recycled yarn ebook  Steeking Scissors  Niddy Noddy  Kromski Niddy Noddy  Wool Wash  Meta Tee pattern  Kelbourne Woolens Kelbourne Woolens (official site) Kelbourne Germantown Fleisher Kelbourne Woolens Year of Hats kits Knit Picks A Year of Hats

Timestamps:0:00 Introduction with Hannah 1:10 Hannah and Lee talk about making yarn 16:58 Want to learn to knit socks? 17:59 Hannah talks to Kate and Courtney from Kelbourne Woolens 39:59 Credits

As the weather gets cozier our stashes seem to get more colorful. This week we're dipping into the wide world of multi colored knitting. From epic Fair Isle to simply soothing marled effects, we're sharing all our knitting know-how in this episode!

First up, Stacey and Lee discuss some popular techniques for getting maximum color in every square inch. Stay tuned to learn the similarities and differences between techniques like Fair Isle, Mosaic, Intarsia, and marls.

Next, Sara joins Hannah from our sister company WeCrochet to tackle some common considerations when choosing colors. They cover some color theory basics that work for every project and also share our favorite ways of choosing specific Knit Picks and WeCrochet brand colors from our websites when you can't just order them ALL to see in person! 

Also, we wanted to let everyone know that our Twelve Weeks of Gifting series of free patterns is happening right now on both KnitPicks.com and Crochet.com! Each week we're releasing a free pattern to get you excited about holiday knitting. The closer to the end of the year we get, the easier the patterns get, perfect for last minute gifting for anyone left on your list. Or! Simply treat yourself. Check out the Twelve weeks of gifting or sign up for our emails to be the first to know when there's a new release.

Mentioned in This Episode: Mosaic Medley book  Spectrum book  Lee's sweater with stripes + short rows  A sweater Lee knit will all different colors of Muse yarn  Lee's patterns (many of which are multi-colored)  Designer MK Nance  Mosaic & Lace book by Barbara Benson  Collection by Lee with stranded mitts/cowl/legwarmers  KP Learning Center colorwork guides  Spilly Jane's patterns Nonna's Gardens Color Theory Basics Palette color card Color Grid Tool Color Booklet and Wheel

Timestamps:0:00 Introduction with Hannah 1:26 Stacey and Lee talk about colorwork 22:20 Want to Learn to Knit A Blanket? 23:02 Hannah and Sara talk about choosing colors 37:06 The Credits

Our offices are located in the Pacific NorthWest where we're all starting to see the subtle signs of fall. This means colder months are on their way and it's time to get going on gifts knits for the holiday season. We know it might feel early, but if you're a gift knitter, you know that it's time.

In this episode you'll hear Erica and Hannah talk tips, tricks and strategies to keep the stress at a minimum while making sure you've got everyone on your list covered. They share some of our favorite patterns to get you inspired to start making your lists and casting on this weekend. 

Stacey and Hillary also introduce our annual Twelve Weeks of Gifting! Free patterns await patient listeners so stay tuned. If and when you need inspiration for any of those last-minute gifts.

Settle in for this week's episode to start slowly getting into the holiday spirit. In the meantime, as always... happy knitting

Mentioned in this Episode:Alpaca Cloud DK, Fingering Lace Andean Treasure Capretta Paragon Galileo Gloss Wonderfluff City Tweed DK, HW Provincial Tweed Muse Continuation Blanket in Mighty Stitch worsted held triple Chill Chaser Cup Cozy in Stroll Cabled Cozies in City Tweed HW Chunky Slippers in Muse Gradual Rib Hat in Hawthorne Beinn Hat in WOTA Gradual Watch Cap in Chroma Twist Dishcloths! Ornaments! 12 Weeks of Gifting

Timestamp: 0:00 The Introduction 0:52 Hannah and Erica talk about knit gifts 24:27 Together We Knit Facebook Group 24:48 Want to know how to knit in the round? 25:39 Stacey and Hillary 29:58 Credits

Recently, during a meeting at the office the Knit Picks team realized that each and every one of us at, one moment or another has had an "AH HAH!" moment when we realized we were doing something wrong! A defining moment in every knitter's craft, there comes a time when you embrace a craft quirk that's special to you, or learn another way of doing something. 

Stay tuned to hear about Twisted stitches, struggling to join in the round or swapping garter stitch for stockinette in a project. Also, we talk about whether we change how we're doing something or just roll with it and call it a "design feature" rather than a flaw! 

We love these little moments and would love to hear some of yours! If you've got a good "ah hah!" moment from your crafty past that you'd like to share, give us a call and leave a voicemail at 360-334-4847. We'll be checking our voicemail often and might be using your messages in future podcast episodes! You can also record a Voice Memo on your phone and send that audio file to [email protected].  In the meantime, as always... happy knitting.

Timestamps:0:00 Introduction 1:24 Stacey and Morgan 7:42 SIMS! 8:11 Hannah, Gerda and Hillary 14:57 Want to knit a scarf? 15:35 Lee and Erica 25:47 Credits

We're back from our short hiatus in August with some fresh crafting conversations for you! With the warm weather winding down and holiday season quickly approaching, we're shifting gears at Knit Picks. This week, we're covering modular projects like blankets and afghans and the easy care yarns that are our go-to choices for long lasting machine washable projects. 

Perfect for cool weather, modular blankets are our favorite things to knit for ourselves or gift during the holidays. These projects will grow and change with every row you knit and they're one of the most mesmerizing knits that we come back to time and time again. Stacey and Lee talk about our new Modular Blanket collection and Stacey shares her favorite way to pick up stitches for perfectly joined pieces. 

Next, Erica and Hannah talk through the wonderful category of washable yarns! Also called "easy care" these fibers are fun to knit and can be safely washed in your home machine. They both love to use yarns in this genre for gift knits because it takes the mystery and worry out of caring for those precious projects. Stay tuned to discover a new-to-you yarn and hear tips and tricks for choosing and caring for these fibers. 

Mentioned in this Episode:Hue Shift Blanket Pattern  Cloudy Day Throw Pattern  Outline Throw Pattern  Buffalo Throw Pattern  Rainflake Throw Pattern  Traditions Afghan Pattern  Joinery Blanket  Flash Forward Blanket  Squared Blanket  Block Party print book  Block Party eBook  A couple of patterns by Lee which are modular with no picked up stitches and no seaming: Vanguard hat and Triyang Collection Shawls  Learn To Knit Kit Learn to Knit Brava (Sport, Worsted, Bulky) Billow Snuggle Puff Dishie CotLin Shine Stroll Hawthorne Muse Swish Chroma Chroma Twist Wota Twill Mighty Stitch Comfy

Timestamps:0:00 Introduction 1:22 Lee and Stacy talk modular knits 17:20 Knit Picks Learn to Knit Box Subscriptions 18:25 Hannah and Erica talk about easy-care yarns 38:48 Credits

Today, we're taking a short break from all things knitting and sharing some of the OTHER crafts we've been experimenting with lately. At Knit Picks, we are knitters too and we also do other things.

First up, Hillary and Hannah talk about what it's like to learn a new craft from scratch. Hillary has been exploring the wide world of ceramics at home and Hannah has been dipping a tentative toe into punch needle! Everyone's process of learning something new is different. They give some examples of things that have been helpful in their new craft explorations. 

Next, Stacey and Lee describe their recent forays into sewing. Both of them have been sewing for years but recently it's grown into a full time interest. The common theme for both Stacey and Lee was discovering the perfect, challenging project that meant they reached a new experience level. These themes and milestones apply to knitting and many crafts. Also, stay tuned for some great audiobook and podcast recommendations to keep you entertained while you craft! 

As always... happy crafting!

Mentioned in this Episode: Lisa Congdon Instagram Stone and Wave Pottery Ceramics Monthly Ball Winder Swift Arounna Instagram Double M Pottery Instagram Modern Punch Needle Punched: Techniques and Projects for Modern Punch Needle Art Lee's sewing pinterest boards Love to Sew podcast LB Pullover pattern Fen Dress pattern Yanta Overalls pattern Lee's portfolio top Lee's Yanta Overalls Lee's first (of many) LB Pullover In the Folds Sew House Seven Helen's Closet Cashmerette Eloquent Rage Lies My Teacher Told Me Something That May Shock and Discredit You How to be an Antiracist Such a Fun Age His Dark Materials series Six of Crows Duology I'm Judging You The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell OverDrive and Libby (both free with library card) Scribd audible Rabbit Hole Dolly Parton's America It's Been a Minute Code Switch Pop Culture Happy Hour Who Shot Ya? Stop Podcasting Yourself Consider ThisThe Daily The Benjamin Dixon Show On the Media Throwing Shade Reply All 1619 This Had Oscar Buzz NPR podcasts Maximum Fun network podcasts Extra Hot Great The Great American Pop Culture Quiz Show Keep It (and Crooked Media) BingeMode (and Ringer network) It's The Pictures That Got Small You Must Remember This The Storm I Don't Even Own A Television Casefile

Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction with Hannah 1:03 Hannah and Hillary talk about learning new crafts 21:13 Lee and Stacy talk about their love of sewing 49:55 Credits

Let's take a look at lace knitting. Now, lace is a polarizing topic in our offices here at Knit Picks and we're betting that it's the same way in the broader knitting world. Either you love it, hate it or just haven't taken the plunge and started your first project. If you're lukewarm about lace or a newbie, this episode is for you!

We've just released a new collection of heavier weight lace patterns that are a great way to get started. Stacey talks with Kalurah Hudson, one of our designer extraordinaires and a contributor to this collection about lace. Starting with fingering, worsted or even bulky weight lace projects means you can get comfortable with charts and lace basics without committing to a lace project that never seems to end! The epitome of quick and cozy, Sway is a great collection for experienced lace lovers as well. 

Next, Lee and Hannah talk about their favorite tools to make knitting lace a breeze. With the right tools, yarn and techniques, lace becomes one of the easiest techniques to master. After this episode, you'll have perfect projects, crisp stitches and zero fears when it comes to lace knitting.

Lastly, stay tuned for a call we received on our phone line! A super fan from Canada called to share their favorite yarns and we were so delighted. We had to include the voicemail here and really, we couldn't have said it better ourselves. 

Featured image includes:

Sagebrush Shawl Paragon Sport Yarn

Mentioned in this Episode: Kalurah Hudson Knit Picks Designs Sway (Collection) Seashore Shawl: Heavy Seashore Shawl: Light Andrea Mowry on Ravelry Premium Knitting Chart Keeper Basic Chart Keeper - Silver Quick Locking Stitch Markers Set Lace Blocking Wires Eucalan Woolwash 16.9 oz Premium Knitting Blocking Mats T Pins 40 Pack Blocking Pins (U shaped ones) Fixed Circular Needles Interchangeable Needles Shimmer Lace Yarn Luminance Lace Yarn Luminance Hand Painted Alpaca Cloud Lace Yarn Gloss Lace Yarn Aloft Yarn

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction with Hannah 1:26 Stacy interviews Kalurah 10:34 Lee and Hannah talk about their favorite tools for lace 37:57 Listener voicemail 42:53 Credits

Today we're talking about HOW things are made but, it's a twist! Instead of the act of knitting or projects, we're going to be sharing how patterns are designed and how our sister company, WeCrochet was born. 

Stacey and Lee have spent years designing patterns and working with designers on the behind-the-scenes process of pattern creation. Whether you're interested in dipping your toe into the design world or want to gain new insight and appreciation for the complex and beautiful work that goes into pattern creation, this segment is a must listen. 

We invite Sara Dudek, the brand manager from WeCrochet on to our podcast to talk about our brand new sister brand. Knit Picks has long been a home for knitters and we wanted to grow to include a home JUST for crocheters. Learn about what's new in crochet (spoiler alert, SO MANY THINGS!) and get inspired to pick up your hooks and explore crochet.com.

As always... happy crafting!

Have a question? Want to talk about something you’re working on? Make sure to call in, ask, and just say hi! Drop us a line at 360-334-4847 and record your message, we’ll be checking our voicemail often and might be using your messages in future podcast episodes. We really love hearing from you. You can also record a Voice Memo on your phone and send that audio file to [email protected]. 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Designer page, includes links to IDP and to current calls for submissions Knit Picks Exclusive Books Knit Picks Exclusive eBooks Knit Picks Exclusive Patterns Design with us! page Indy Pattern Designers' Resources ravelry group Lee's knitting patterns WeCrochet!

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction with Hannah 1:09 Stacy and Lee talk about the process of knitting patterns from idea through to publishing 22:54 Hannah talks to Sara about the new brand for crocheters, WeCrochet 38:07 Credits with Hannah