Love your podcast and your honesty!! Bought a whole bunch of acrylic yarn when I was teaching myself crochet. Totally abandoned it for the sake I did not like working with it. Then I listened to ‘I Thought I Knew How’ podcast. Great podcast by the way…. But she had a couple podcast about acrylic/nylon yarn April 10, 2024. Very informative, got rid of all my nylon/acrylic yarn with no regret!🙂
So, I frogged my Alpenglow blanket and started the Rain or Shine blanket. So glad I did. Thanks for the wonderful recommendation. Loving the knitting experience. It’s that good!!!
I’m going to suggest that you use your pink acrylic yarn to make a baby blanket. You never know when you will need one as a gift! It will make a lovely gift for someone who can just throw it in the washer and dryer and not worry.
I think you are absolutely right. My daughter is also super crafty and said she would love to use it. It won’t go to waste! And it was a learning experience for me.
Great to see you. So sorry about your daughter's illness. My husband's been sick with the flu and I'm afraid I wasn't really very sympathetic to him either. He's not good at asking or receiving help and doesn't really look after himself when he's unwell, so he was just moping and blobbing around and sleeping alot, saying he was just tired when I asked, to my annoyance, then when he started having mild delusions I panicked and took him to Emergency. Turns out he had the flu (and was dehydrated)! It can really knock you around. Weeks later he still has low energy, but hopefully young ones bounce back quickly. It amuses me when people say they're a yarn snob. I know its said in fun, but it does have negative connotations. I've not knitted with 100% acrylic yarns so much, but when I have, I didn't like the feel of it. I wouldn't call myself a snob because of that. I just LOVE beautiful fabric - how it feels, how it looks, its colour and texture. These all add to the beauty and pleasure of whatever I'm making at the time. So if a fabric doesn't suit our aesthetics at the time, we shouldn't put ourselves down if what does suit at the time happens to be expensive, luxury, or made of certain fibres. If it's what we like (or love) we should just accept that and not call ourselves names if we don't like other things!! xx
Hello my friend! I hope your husband is on the mend and taking it easy. It can definitely take a while to start feeling 100% again. My little one is finally there, and I just pray she doesn’t catch anything else now. Fair enough! I can appreciate that point of view!! We’ll call ourselves yarn connoisseurs instead 😘
Hi Lena, your color work cowl is very pretty. I bet that was fun but also challenging to work on. I’m glad you are back and that your daughter is feeling better. It’s not easy knowing the best thing to do when you are a parent. I’m glad you were able to go easy on yourself - the knit kitty is adorable!
We have to give ourselves as much grace as we try to give the people we love! I try to remind myself that my daughter will hopefully learn that too. Hope you are doing well Beth!
Ok you’re almost making me want to make that blanket - maybe for a baby because I make a lot of those. Also almost wanting to order the linen quill minis - but not quite! lol Girl if you could have seen my face when you said you bought the acrylic! No! Just no! lol it feels awful in my hands - dries them out - and I can’t stand wearing it! I was just at jcrew yesterday and there was a beautiful blue weather that I was about to try on and when i checked fabric content to see 100% acrylic I was like “NEVER!” 😂 They used to sell cashmere at jcrew but not so much anymore! Parenting fail: my daughter kept telling me her leg hurt and was showing me a little mosquito bite thing and I’d be like “Elizabeth! You’re not bleeding! Get out on the field!” At soccer practice. Finally a week later she’s like “mom i can’t run! It hurts so bad!” So knowing she HATES shots I say “ok we will go to the Dr but you know they’ll probably give you a shot?!” And she still wants to go… the Dr uses a little qtip and opens up this bug bite into a giant staff infection!!!! I felt sooooo bad! And she did indeed get a shot! 😂 we are all just doing our best, right?!?! I can relate to needing the quiet/alone time. I think I’m a 50/50 introvert/extrovert. I love a good gathering but then I need down/quiet/alone time to be fully whole.😊 Always love your pod! Merry Christmas!❤
OMG!! I’m so sorry that happened with your daughter!! I’m trying not to laugh but its so funny. We have to give ourselves grace in those moments, because so much of the time it really is just drama!! Girl, if you buy those linen quill minis I know you will not regret it!! They are pure magic. I bought a second pack and I just to frame them in my living room 😜
I was SOOO worried about you! I checked your channel a few times to make sure I didn't get unsubscribed for some strange reason or to see if I missed a video in the Vlogmas craze. And I usually save you for my glorious Saturday morning stitchy time, in bed, with coffee and my dogs cuddled at my side - but I HAD to watch you as soon as I saw the video ;-) Saying I'm sorry and being transparent/authentic with your daughter is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child. Saying I'm sorry takes so much courage. It is teaching your daughter to own up to her future 'I'm sorry' moments. Bravo Mamma! And yarn snob? Oh geez. I'm in a few groups that do Secret Santas. In the past I've always said, "Buy me yarn!" Now I'm like, "Oh no - no more yarn. I have plenty. Buy me a project bag." Just to disguise my snobbery.
You are so sweet Sylvia!! I’m sorry I made you worry. You can always message me on Instagram and I will always write you back. I agree with you about kids and apologizing. No ego here-I am a very fallible human and I need my kids to have realistic expectations of me and of themselves!! I hope you have a wonderful December!
That’s exactly right! It keeps me being the person I want to be for them. When I was younger I always had to have sound in the background, but since I had kids, I need silence!
Understand your Musselburgh yarn issues! I knitted one using Noro silk garden sock, which is in on the thicker side. It was a delight to knit with and so pretty, but as I knit it at a tighter gauge for a denser fabric, I ran out and had to use another yarn inside the crown. I wear mine with a folded brim, but I think mine would be structured enough to wear without folding. I actually find hats so difficult to get right.
I LOVE YOUR BLANKET!! I want to get linen quill simply because of how wonderfully you’ve described it so many times. Good to see you! Happy holidays Leena! ❤️❤️❤️
Pink lover for LIFE! I will die on a pink hill!! 😂 I don’t think it’s snobbery as much as personal preference….you can get inexpensive wool and you can get better-quality synthetic fibers and blends. If I like the colors, I will work with almost anything 😂 (apropos said hill 💕) Mommy guilt is a never-ending, relentless beast. Love that you eased the situation with knitting ❤ Great to see you! 100% relatable as usual. Happiest of holidays!
That is so so so true!!! You can find beautiful synthetics and average natural fibers. I love that perspective. There was truly nothing wrong with this yarn, I just didn’t think I could get over the mental hump. But I think I’ll use it at some point for a baby knit or something. Someone needs to have a girl 😂 I will die on that pink hill with you!!! 💗😘✨
Awe! Thank you for sharing that real life story. There was a time in the very recent past where I would question my daughter when she said she was not feeling well because she is very, very dramatic. She also has had times where in the morning before school she was not feeling well but by 11:30 she was hitting cart wheels in the living room and asking me 21 questions a minute. In the last two years I’ve challenged myself to believe her even if I think differently. Her threshold for discomfort is lower than mine because we grew up very differently and she is middle school age. I also want her to know that when she says she is not feeling well, I believe her. I want her to trust her body. I know when I am starting to feel ill. I know a day or two before. I’ve noticed that she is starting to notice two. A day or two before she will say she is starting to come down with something. She may notice a tickle in her throat or start to notice she is more tired than usual. And then boom! A couple of days later she will say she is sick. I’ve noticed than earlier down town at the first sight of illness means a faster recovery most times. I definitely have guilt from past experiences. I love that you made her a mini thing and that she loved it! So sweet! I can barely get my muffin to wear one of my knitted hats. I am going to try some mini things. I have a feeling that might win her heart! 💜
No one can resist the lure of miniature cuteness!! I agree with you about believing them-especially because even if its not something physical, it could be something emotional going on with them, and they need a little more support. But its so disruptive to our lives when they are at home!!!! I need school hours for sanity!!
Glad you’re back! I’ve been on a mosaic, color work kick. I finally casted on 2 that aren’t but after little over week break I casted on color work socks. Love, love the blanket. Beautiful colors!
35:18 as for acrylic, I love it for my giant blankets. It holds up great and is easy care. (That giant westknits blanket I did is so gently used because it’s all wool…and I wish I could use it without worry) my others are stylecraft special dk and that is such a nice, no pill acrylic that stays soft and wonderful. So it’s a yes for me When Austin heard you ask if we liked acrylic yarn (we’re watching while wrapping gifts) he went “HAIL NO!” 🤣🤣🤣
This made me laugh out loud! Someday we have to meet. The two of you are a hoot. That actually makes such good sense. Especially with you and your brood 😂 Maybe I’ll save this pink yarn for a baby blanket or something. It is nice to be able to use it without worrying.
Re your cowl, have you thought of changing the background and foreground colours around? That's what we do here in Shetland ❤ Thanks for your podcasts, I look forward to see what you are doing. Xxx Acrylic yarn tends to make me sweaty 😊 It isn't snobbery ❤ Acrylic has its place, though. It can be washed continually. Maybe a sweater or blanket for your little girl? Ps. You apologised. It is ok. Children are very reasonable. You are only human ❤
That’s such a fun idea!! I have seen that, and I love knowing that is a traditional thing to do. Maybe I will switch them around when I get half way. That might be a fun touch. Like Andrea Mowry’s Velvet Mirror Cowl. And you are so right, children are very reasonable. I think she got tired of hearing me apologize 😂 She said “You’re only human, mama” 😌
Thank you!! I agree, it happens to all of us. I’m trying to learn my lesson so it doesn’t happen again!! It never hurts just to go to the doc even when we’re not sure what’s really happening. Because not believing her really haunts me :(
I recently used a bulky weight Wool/acrylic blend for a cardigan and it worked out beautifully. Thanks for sharing your life chat - sending you love and hugs, parenting is the most complicated thing ever.
That’s amazing!! I think that blends are the way to go. There are some fabulously soft ones that my mother in law has used for baby knits…I need to find the brands. And yes, that is well said! Parenting is the most complicated thing ever. If I had known how challenging it would be, I honestly am not sure I would have been brave enough to become a parent! I was young and naive when I had my son!
I'm a sheep farmer, so of course I absolutely adore natural wool, but I often knit with acrylics especially for people who don't know how to care for wool. It breaks my heart when projects are felted, so I would rather err on the side of caution. Some acrylics are definitely better than others, but it will always be up to a personal preference.
That is such a good point, Carla. Also, that is so magical. I would love to hear more. Do you sell the wool?? I find sheep and alpaca to be the most magical animals ✨
Acrylic yarns have their place in my knitting…baby items that need easy care, mostly….but otherwise…nope! But, I think you did the right thing to try and see how you personally felt!
I’m pretty sure all moms have been there in terms of thinking our kids were just being dramatic (since the dramatic kid usually is just being dramatic!). My worst mom-guilt story is when my kid had been complaining about a tummy ache for a couple of days, and I chalked it up to constipation and was making him spend lots of time on the toilet. I finally took him to urgent care (because of course it came to a head on the weekend). It was not constipation, and he ended up needing surgery! So missed flu is definitely less bad-mom than some of us 😅
Eek!! That’s a really tough one!! Poor kiddo and poor you!! A friend of mine had a similar story. Her son kept complaining that his back hurt but she thought he was just being dramatic. Almost a year went by, and finally he got an MRI and turned out he had a fractured vertebrae 😩 It’s a horrible feeling!! But we live and learn!
Your blanket is stunning! Thank you for your wonderful content throughout the year. Hope you & your family have a fantastic holiday and best wishes fof 2025.
I love acrylic blends - it makes cotton feel softer and lighter, and makes wool a lot cheaper. I never use pure acrylic because I find it awful to the touch and way to insulating: like a raincoat! It needs something else to help get rid of moisture from the skin ❤️ My two cents.
That is a super point. I’ve actually encountered acrylic blends that are so incredibly soft. And yes, the price point is much more reasonable! It’s hard to spend 100s every time you fall down a rabbit hole of knitting!
Omg! I can relate so much! I bought some yarn from lion brand. Its 80% acrylic and 20 % wool in worsted weight. I wanted to use it for the Three Seasons Pull Over by Wool and Pine. I wanted to like it so bad!! I love the stitch definition and the color but I knew I hated it when I knitted the swatch. It just doesn’t fill good against my skin. I am also making The Mexican Blanket in the same blend of chunky weight and I just like it but I do not love it!! I just prefer natural fibers on my skin.
Same girl, same. The price is so alluring, but its hard to enjoy the finished project when you’ve experienced luxurious natural blends. And we put so much time into knitting, its not worth it if you know you’ll be disappointed in the result!
Thanks for the video, and thanks for your sweet comment to my message on your last upload. It really made my week 🥰. I made a cardigan for my sister for her birthday this year and used sandnes garn Kos. I didn't love the feel - it's a blown yarn so the texture is really airy and tufty feeling (if that is a word), kind of scratchy. The colors range is amazing but I don't think I'd use it again but that's just me.
Oh no! I hope after all that hemming and hawing, it isn’t a purchase I regret! I’m hoping because is a cardigan and will have a layer under it maybe I won’t find it scratchy?? Shoot. I wish I had asked you guys before I purchased it! But I just fell in love with the color 😍 Also how lovely that you knit for your sister. I hope she appreciates how much goes into it! Have a great time in Breck, my friend!
@@AnotherKnittingPodMy sister has worn her cardigan a lot and hasn't said it's itchy. I think I just didn't enjoy the knitting process so much because the texture wasn't what I expected. The colors are amazing though. I used the purple colorway and loved it. I hope I didn't make you feel down about your yarn choice. I'm sure it will be great! 😊
Good to see you back! I’m sorry about all the sickies…that is just miserable. I wanted you to know that I cast on that Rain or Shine blanket with my leftovers and I’m feeling the delight! What a fun project. And I’m with you on the Musselburgh. I have made one and it is a bit loose…taking a gauge off an inch of work never works out for me. I feel it is like sock knitting…once you’ve knit four of them you figure out your best formula…but there is NO way I’m knitting four of them. Booooring.
Hi Joanne! I’m so glad that you are enjoying the Rain or Shine as much as I am! Brilliant to get to use leftovers, that makes it even more fun. And I wholeheartedly agree re: musselburgh. I would never knit it again. It’s just not very interesting!
Yeah, one time I sent my son to school even though he threw up in the morning at home. I thought he got it out of his system and was going to be ok plus he had a really fun field trip planned at school, so I didn't want him to miss it. He threw up again at school and they sent him home. I felt really bad.
It’s the worst feeling! You could call it right 99 times, but the 1 time we get it wrong haunts us. I just try to remind myself that I am as human as they are!
You Crazy! But I enjoy listening to you and your take on knitting. I'll probably never be a natural yarn snob except for sox, must be SUPERWASH WOOL WITH A STRONGER FIBER FOR WEAR. Now I can see myself being an Acrylic yarn snob. It fits perfectly into my budget especially when its a huge project and Acrylic has come a long way where it feels is concerned. So being picky about my acrylic is where I'm at. We are now in a viral time. It may never go away. I know you know your child but it can be risky not taking the children seriously enough and that child slips into a state unexpectedly that can scare the bejesus out of you. So if they say Ma I'm out for the count, have a plan ready to see if this is true so that you can go forward never having to encur any guilt. My Son who is a young man in his twenties and lives with me got sick recently and it lasted longer than usual. I found that wierd because he usually recovers quickly. He couldn't go to work for about a week. Stayed in bed the whole time. Didn't feel like doing anything. That's missed pay. Me being a lay herbalist I had to administer herbs until he was better and as a mother, I cannot stand for my children to be sick. I can't even stand to be sick. When they are about their business each day I'm a happy camper. I plead to the Most High for long life for my children with prosperity of whatever kind they choose. So Rina, please be careful. Consider the New Time of diseases we are in, WORLDWIDE. I thought that pink bulky was really nice. It came across bright and bubbly. And the pattern look=ed nice too. But you want what you want and I completely understand that because I'm that way too. I'm not a person that easily accepts settling. I want what I want and I strive hard for it. And I'm picky. So hope you really hit the bullseye this time and get the great joy you love from knitting. Knitting and Crochet are great time consumers, healers, soul quieters, and snuggly cozy place puters. HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON AND A NEW BLESSED NEW YEAR and I look forward to your future knitting journey stories.
Omg Leena I love your blanket! I’ve been hoarding my Linen Quill minis with the idea of using those in the Bubble Cardigan, but you’ve got me rethinking this! Maybe I need to take advantage of the purl soho sale and just knit both! Ha!
You can not go wrong with making both of these! The bubble cardigan is one of my most worn pieces and now I want to make another out of linen quill. Great idea. You could make the most beautiful color combos because their range is spectacular!
I used to use only acrylic yarn or a mix of it with wool. But now since I’ve used nice yarn I’ve become a bit of a snob too. 🤷🏻♀️ I use acrylic for color work beanies and blankets. I really like the premier non piling yarn. It really holds up nicely. I’ve made several blankets for my grandsons and as gifts for my son’s friend’s babies.
Acrylic definitely has its place! And if you can find a nice blend, they can be lovely. I think using it for something next to skin wasn’t the right idea for me. But I’ll find a use for it in the future, I’m sure. Colorwork and mosaic are so fun. I know what you mean-I was on a cable kick for a while! It’s just fun to watch those types of projects unfold.
It’s so glad to see you! I loved seeing your blanket progress. I’ve started mine..just a bit. I’m waiting for the 40 pack but was able to start with that bright Flamingo! How long a cable are you using now that the blanket is at that point? I’ll probably need to get a larger one than I have! I love love the bubble cardigan! Sometimes acrylic blends can be just fine. This time it wasn’t. I do like Lion Brand Wool Ease! It’s like 20% wool, 80% acrylic. Just return the skeins you haven’t used. I can’t wait to hear how you like the Sandes Garn alpaca yarn!
Bright flamingo is 😍 There is literally not one color in there that hasn’t been fun to knit with. And getting to blend them ups the joy even more!! My cord isn’t even that long. It’s a fixed needle, so I just used the one that I had…honestly I find it easier to knit when there are a lot of stitches squished together. That being said, I think I will have to switch to a longer cord at some point. I have a 50 inch in my Chiaogoo set, but its a bit unwieldy.
As the mom of a drama girl as well don’t beat yourself up! Annalie will say she is sick and feels too “droopy” to go to school and I fall for it! I’m a softy and she knows! Meanwhile I drag my sorry butt in when I have no business being at work because I call in to stay with her when she is droopy 😂
I am determined to try that yarn in the new year! It is quite pricey though. However the colors are so good! I have to find the right project to give it a whirl 😘
I am trying a cheep yarn if anybody has used this yarn what was your experience? It’s Caroline latte cakes. It’s very soft and I was gonna make the cardigan by Veronica Kutovakika darling cardigan. It is a bulky. I am just now doing the gage swatch. It is so soft. Have you ever felt it. Let me know. Has anybody ever used Caron latte cakes? It’s in the white cream. I was just wondering before I make this whole cardigan. I thought of you with the bulky yarn cause this is considered a bulky but when I knit with it, it’s very nice for a cardigan. Nice feel perfect weight and soft and light for a bulky
So sorry about your little misadventure at the end! I don't have kids but I'm not surprised this can happen. You can't possibly know exactly what to believe 100% of the time. But I'm sure you're doing your best as a mom! To answer the question about acrylic, no, I don't like it! I don't like knitting it, I don't like wearing it, I don't like how it makes you sweaty, I don't like that it's plastic, I don't like that it's very bad for the environment. The only thing I like about it is using it for making toys for the kids. I don't think it's snob to use natural fibres instead of synthetic stuff and I believe we should really think about how and why we use synthetic fibres when we do so maybe we can start making better choices if possible.
You totally took me back 30 years! I remember taking my 4 children for a family portrait, and the eldest was being so miserable (usually such an easy-going guy). I'm pretty sure I felt a bit impatient with him. Turns out he was coming down with strep throat 🙄😬. Yes, I think we can all relate! Your Polka Dot Cardi is going to be fabulous! I've picked up my Half & Half wrap...been on the needles for 3yrs come January. I'm determined to get it done....and I will NEVER cast on another !! 😅😅
You have four children, Sandra! I knew you were a superhero. I would be impatient all the time if I had 4 😂 I know what you mean. The half and half is quite the undertaking. But I have to say, the end result is pretty spectacular. It was very worth the make, but I too won’t be casting on another.
I am trying a cheep yarn if anybody has used this yarn what was your experience? It’s Caroline latte cakes. It’s very soft and I was gonna make the cardigan by Veronica Kutovakika darling cardigan. It is a bulky. I am just now doing the gage swatch. It is so soft. Have you ever felt it. Let me know. Has anybody ever used Caron latte cakes? It’s in the white cream. I was just wondering before I make this whole cardigan.
Love your podcast and your honesty!! Bought a whole bunch of acrylic yarn when I was teaching myself crochet. Totally abandoned it for the sake I did not like working with it. Then I listened to ‘I Thought I Knew How’ podcast. Great podcast by the way…. But she had a couple podcast about acrylic/nylon yarn April 10, 2024. Very informative, got rid of all my nylon/acrylic yarn with no regret!🙂
So, I frogged my Alpenglow blanket and started the Rain or Shine blanket. So glad I did. Thanks for the wonderful recommendation. Loving the knitting experience. It’s that good!!!
I’m going to suggest that you use your pink acrylic yarn to make a baby blanket. You never know when you will need one as a gift! It will make a lovely gift for someone who can just throw it in the washer and dryer and not worry.
I think you are absolutely right. My daughter is also super crafty and said she would love to use it. It won’t go to waste! And it was a learning experience for me.
Great to see you. So sorry about your daughter's illness. My husband's been sick with the flu and I'm afraid I wasn't really very sympathetic to him either. He's not good at asking or receiving help and doesn't really look after himself when he's unwell, so he was just moping and blobbing around and sleeping alot, saying he was just tired when I asked, to my annoyance, then when he started having mild delusions I panicked and took him to Emergency. Turns out he had the flu (and was dehydrated)! It can really knock you around. Weeks later he still has low energy, but hopefully young ones bounce back quickly.
It amuses me when people say they're a yarn snob. I know its said in fun, but it does have negative connotations. I've not knitted with 100% acrylic yarns so much, but when I have, I didn't like the feel of it. I wouldn't call myself a snob because of that. I just LOVE beautiful fabric - how it feels, how it looks, its colour and texture. These all add to the beauty and pleasure of whatever I'm making at the time. So if a fabric doesn't suit our aesthetics at the time, we shouldn't put ourselves down if what does suit at the time happens to be expensive, luxury, or made of certain fibres. If it's what we like (or love) we should just accept that and not call ourselves names if we don't like other things!!
xx
Hello my friend! I hope your husband is on the mend and taking it easy. It can definitely take a while to start feeling 100% again. My little one is finally there, and I just pray she doesn’t catch anything else now.
Fair enough! I can appreciate that point of view!! We’ll call ourselves yarn connoisseurs instead 😘
Hi Lena, your color work cowl is very pretty. I bet that was fun but also challenging to work on. I’m glad you are back and that your daughter is feeling better. It’s not easy knowing the best thing to do when you are a parent. I’m glad you were able to go easy on yourself - the knit kitty is adorable!
We have to give ourselves as much grace as we try to give the people we love! I try to remind myself that my daughter will hopefully learn that too. Hope you are doing well Beth!
@ that’s a great lesson
Ok you’re almost making me want to make that blanket - maybe for a baby because I make a lot of those. Also almost wanting to order the linen quill minis - but not quite! lol
Girl if you could have seen my face when you said you bought the acrylic! No! Just no! lol it feels awful in my hands - dries them out - and I can’t stand wearing it! I was just at jcrew yesterday and there was a beautiful blue weather that I was about to try on and when i checked fabric content to see 100% acrylic I was like “NEVER!” 😂
They used to sell cashmere at jcrew but not so much anymore!
Parenting fail: my daughter kept telling me her leg hurt and was showing me a little mosquito bite thing and I’d be like “Elizabeth! You’re not bleeding! Get out on the field!” At soccer practice. Finally a week later she’s like “mom i can’t run! It hurts so bad!” So knowing she HATES shots I say “ok we will go to the Dr but you know they’ll probably give you a shot?!” And she still wants to go… the Dr uses a little qtip and opens up this bug bite into a giant staff infection!!!! I felt sooooo bad! And she did indeed get a shot! 😂 we are all just doing our best, right?!?!
I can relate to needing the quiet/alone time. I think I’m a 50/50 introvert/extrovert. I love a good gathering but then I need down/quiet/alone time to be fully whole.😊
Always love your pod!
Merry Christmas!❤
OMG!! I’m so sorry that happened with your daughter!! I’m trying not to laugh but its so funny. We have to give ourselves grace in those moments, because so much of the time it really is just drama!!
Girl, if you buy those linen quill minis I know you will not regret it!! They are pure magic. I bought a second pack and I just to frame them in my living room 😜
I was SOOO worried about you! I checked your channel a few times to make sure I didn't get unsubscribed for some strange reason or to see if I missed a video in the Vlogmas craze. And I usually save you for my glorious Saturday morning stitchy time, in bed, with coffee and my dogs cuddled at my side - but I HAD to watch you as soon as I saw the video ;-) Saying I'm sorry and being transparent/authentic with your daughter is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child. Saying I'm sorry takes so much courage. It is teaching your daughter to own up to her future 'I'm sorry' moments. Bravo Mamma! And yarn snob? Oh geez. I'm in a few groups that do Secret Santas. In the past I've always said, "Buy me yarn!" Now I'm like, "Oh no - no more yarn. I have plenty. Buy me a project bag." Just to disguise my snobbery.
You are so sweet Sylvia!! I’m sorry I made you worry. You can always message me on Instagram and I will always write you back.
I agree with you about kids and apologizing. No ego here-I am a very fallible human and I need my kids to have realistic expectations of me and of themselves!!
I hope you have a wonderful December!
Oh man don’t I understand needing some alone time. Loving your family is all the things but time alone. Oh goodness… it’s needed.
That’s exactly right! It keeps me being the person I want to be for them. When I was younger I always had to have sound in the background, but since I had kids, I need silence!
I worked my MB hat with twisted rib for the folded parts. That helps it tighten up for me.
That’s a great idea! Sounds like you’ve made more than one?
Understand your Musselburgh yarn issues! I knitted one using Noro silk garden sock, which is in on the thicker side. It was a delight to knit with and so pretty, but as I knit it at a tighter gauge for a denser fabric, I ran out and had to use another yarn inside the crown. I wear mine with a folded brim, but I think mine would be structured enough to wear without folding. I actually find hats so difficult to get right.
I LOVE YOUR BLANKET!! I want to get linen quill simply because of how wonderfully you’ve described it so many times. Good to see you! Happy holidays Leena! ❤️❤️❤️
You’ve never used Linen Quill, Liz?? Omg you have to. Especially with your love of color.
@ I just was invited to do a summer test knit so I think that will be a good summer yarn…yes? :)
Pink lover for LIFE! I will die on a pink hill!! 😂
I don’t think it’s snobbery as much as personal preference….you can get inexpensive wool and you can get better-quality synthetic fibers and blends. If I like the colors, I will work with almost anything 😂 (apropos said hill 💕)
Mommy guilt is a never-ending, relentless beast. Love that you eased the situation with knitting ❤
Great to see you! 100% relatable as usual. Happiest of holidays!
That is so so so true!!! You can find beautiful synthetics and average natural fibers. I love that perspective. There was truly nothing wrong with this yarn, I just didn’t think I could get over the mental hump. But I think I’ll use it at some point for a baby knit or something. Someone needs to have a girl 😂
I will die on that pink hill with you!!! 💗😘✨
Awe! Thank you for sharing that real life story. There was a time in the very recent past where I would question my daughter when she said she was not feeling well because she is very, very dramatic. She also has had times where in the morning before school she was not feeling well but by 11:30 she was hitting cart wheels in the living room and asking me 21 questions a minute. In the last two years I’ve challenged myself to believe her even if I think differently. Her threshold for discomfort is lower than mine because we grew up very differently and she is middle school age. I also want her to know that when she says she is not feeling well, I believe her. I want her to trust her body. I know when I am starting to feel ill. I know a day or two before. I’ve noticed that she is starting to notice two. A day or two before she will say she is starting to come down with something. She may notice a tickle in her throat or start to notice she is more tired than usual. And then boom! A couple of days later she will say she is sick. I’ve noticed than earlier down town at the first sight of illness means a faster recovery most times. I definitely have guilt from past experiences. I love that you made her a mini thing and that she loved it! So sweet! I can barely get my muffin to wear one of my knitted hats. I am going to try some mini things. I have a feeling that might win her heart! 💜
No one can resist the lure of miniature cuteness!!
I agree with you about believing them-especially because even if its not something physical, it could be something emotional going on with them, and they need a little more support. But its so disruptive to our lives when they are at home!!!! I need school hours for sanity!!
Glad you’re back!
I’ve been on a mosaic, color work kick. I finally casted on 2 that aren’t but after little over week break I casted on color work socks.
Love, love the blanket. Beautiful colors!
35:18 as for acrylic, I love it for my giant blankets. It holds up great and is easy care. (That giant westknits blanket I did is so gently used because it’s all wool…and I wish I could use it without worry) my others are stylecraft special dk and that is such a nice, no pill acrylic that stays soft and wonderful. So it’s a yes for me
When Austin heard you ask if we liked acrylic yarn (we’re watching while wrapping gifts) he went “HAIL NO!” 🤣🤣🤣
This made me laugh out loud! Someday we have to meet. The two of you are a hoot.
That actually makes such good sense. Especially with you and your brood 😂 Maybe I’ll save this pink yarn for a baby blanket or something. It is nice to be able to use it without worrying.
@@AnotherKnittingPod I would absolutely love to meet one day! ❤️❤️❤️
Re your cowl, have you thought of changing the background and foreground colours around? That's what we do here in Shetland ❤ Thanks for your podcasts, I look forward to see what you are doing. Xxx Acrylic yarn tends to make me sweaty 😊 It isn't snobbery ❤ Acrylic has its place, though. It can be washed continually. Maybe a sweater or blanket for your little girl? Ps. You apologised. It is ok. Children are very reasonable. You are only human ❤
That’s such a fun idea!! I have seen that, and I love knowing that is a traditional thing to do. Maybe I will switch them around when I get half way. That might be a fun touch. Like Andrea Mowry’s Velvet Mirror Cowl.
And you are so right, children are very reasonable. I think she got tired of hearing me apologize 😂 She said “You’re only human, mama” 😌
Leena, yes yes! We have all been there and called something wrong…for the reasons you said. You’re not alone!
Thank you!! I agree, it happens to all of us. I’m trying to learn my lesson so it doesn’t happen again!! It never hurts just to go to the doc even when we’re not sure what’s really happening. Because not believing her really haunts me :(
Colourwork is definitely wintery because it creates a double layer fabric that is extra warm ❤
That is very true!! The combo of these two yarns is unexpectedly lovely.
You could knit a nice pillow out of your acrylic yarn.
That is true! A pillow or a baby blanket are what I am thinking 🥰
I recently used a bulky weight Wool/acrylic blend for a cardigan and it worked out beautifully. Thanks for sharing your life chat - sending you love and hugs, parenting is the most complicated thing ever.
That’s amazing!! I think that blends are the way to go. There are some fabulously soft ones that my mother in law has used for baby knits…I need to find the brands.
And yes, that is well said! Parenting is the most complicated thing ever. If I had known how challenging it would be, I honestly am not sure I would have been brave enough to become a parent! I was young and naive when I had my son!
I'm a sheep farmer, so of course I absolutely adore natural wool, but I often knit with acrylics especially for people who don't know how to care for wool. It breaks my heart when projects are felted, so I would rather err on the side of caution. Some acrylics are definitely better than others, but it will always be up to a personal preference.
That is such a good point, Carla. Also, that is so magical. I would love to hear more. Do you sell the wool?? I find sheep and alpaca to be the most magical animals ✨
Acrylic yarns have their place in my knitting…baby items that need easy care, mostly….but otherwise…nope! But, I think you did the right thing to try and see how you personally felt!
I fully agree! I think this wasn’t the best choice for a garment. But I will keep it for a baby blanket because I do love the shade of pink 🥰
I’m pretty sure all moms have been there in terms of thinking our kids were just being dramatic (since the dramatic kid usually is just being dramatic!). My worst mom-guilt story is when my kid had been complaining about a tummy ache for a couple of days, and I chalked it up to constipation and was making him spend lots of time on the toilet. I finally took him to urgent care (because of course it came to a head on the weekend). It was not constipation, and he ended up needing surgery! So missed flu is definitely less bad-mom than some of us 😅
Eek!! That’s a really tough one!! Poor kiddo and poor you!!
A friend of mine had a similar story. Her son kept complaining that his back hurt but she thought he was just being dramatic. Almost a year went by, and finally he got an MRI and turned out he had a fractured vertebrae 😩 It’s a horrible feeling!! But we live and learn!
Your blanket is stunning! Thank you for your wonderful content throughout the year. Hope you & your family have a fantastic holiday and best wishes fof 2025.
Thank you so much for your kind words! Wishing you a lovely end of the year as well 💚
I hate natural fibers n use only acrylic. Love it!
I love that you know what works for you! There are definitely really good acrylics out there that are super buttery soft.
I love acrylic blends - it makes cotton feel softer and lighter, and makes wool a lot cheaper. I never use pure acrylic because I find it awful to the touch and way to insulating: like a raincoat! It needs something else to help get rid of moisture from the skin ❤️ My two cents.
I have knit a bunch of beanies and handwarmers out of pure acrylic - I donated them to a charity, and I’m sure they’re great in the cold.
That is a super point. I’ve actually encountered acrylic blends that are so incredibly soft. And yes, the price point is much more reasonable! It’s hard to spend 100s every time you fall down a rabbit hole of knitting!
Omg! I can relate so much! I bought some yarn from lion brand. Its 80% acrylic and 20 % wool in worsted weight. I wanted to use it for the Three Seasons Pull Over by Wool and Pine. I wanted to like it so bad!! I love the stitch definition and the color but I knew I hated it when I knitted the swatch. It just doesn’t fill good against my skin. I am also making The Mexican Blanket in the same blend of chunky weight and I just like it but I do not love it!! I just prefer natural fibers on my skin.
Same girl, same. The price is so alluring, but its hard to enjoy the finished project when you’ve experienced luxurious natural blends. And we put so much time into knitting, its not worth it if you know you’ll be disappointed in the result!
Thanks for the video, and thanks for your sweet comment to my message on your last upload. It really made my week 🥰.
I made a cardigan for my sister for her birthday this year and used sandnes garn Kos. I didn't love the feel - it's a blown yarn so the texture is really airy and tufty feeling (if that is a word), kind of scratchy. The colors range is amazing but I don't think I'd use it again but that's just me.
Oh no! I hope after all that hemming and hawing, it isn’t a purchase I regret! I’m hoping because is a cardigan and will have a layer under it maybe I won’t find it scratchy?? Shoot. I wish I had asked you guys before I purchased it! But I just fell in love with the color 😍
Also how lovely that you knit for your sister. I hope she appreciates how much goes into it!
Have a great time in Breck, my friend!
@@AnotherKnittingPodMy sister has worn her cardigan a lot and hasn't said it's itchy. I think I just didn't enjoy the knitting process so much because the texture wasn't what I expected. The colors are amazing though. I used the purple colorway and loved it. I hope I didn't make you feel down about your yarn choice. I'm sure it will be great! 😊
Good to see you back! I’m sorry about all the sickies…that is just miserable. I wanted you to know that I cast on that Rain or Shine blanket with my leftovers and I’m feeling the delight! What a fun project. And I’m with you on the Musselburgh. I have made one and it is a bit loose…taking a gauge off an inch of work never works out for me. I feel it is like sock knitting…once you’ve knit four of them you figure out your best formula…but there is NO way I’m knitting four of them. Booooring.
Hi Joanne! I’m so glad that you are enjoying the Rain or Shine as much as I am! Brilliant to get to use leftovers, that makes it even more fun.
And I wholeheartedly agree re: musselburgh. I would never knit it again. It’s just not very interesting!
So glad to see you back!😊
Thank you! I hate being away for so long!
Yeah, one time I sent my son to school even though he threw up in the morning at home. I thought he got it out of his system and was going to be ok plus he had a really fun field trip planned at school, so I didn't want him to miss it. He threw up again at school and they sent him home. I felt really bad.
It’s the worst feeling! You could call it right 99 times, but the 1 time we get it wrong haunts us. I just try to remind myself that I am as human as they are!
@@AnotherKnittingPod ❤
You Crazy! But I enjoy listening to you and your take on knitting. I'll probably never be a natural yarn snob except for sox, must be SUPERWASH WOOL WITH A STRONGER FIBER FOR WEAR. Now I can see myself being an Acrylic yarn snob. It fits perfectly into my budget especially when its a huge project and Acrylic has come a long way where it feels is concerned. So being picky about my acrylic is where I'm at.
We are now in a viral time. It may never go away. I know you know your child but it can be risky not taking the children seriously enough and that child slips into a state unexpectedly that can scare the bejesus out of you. So if they say Ma I'm out for the count, have a plan ready to see if this is true so that you can go forward never having to encur any guilt. My Son who is a young man in his twenties and lives with me got sick recently and it lasted longer than usual. I found that wierd because he usually recovers quickly. He couldn't go to work for about a week. Stayed in bed the whole time. Didn't feel like doing anything. That's missed pay. Me being a lay herbalist I had to administer herbs until he was better and as a mother, I cannot stand for my children to be sick. I can't even stand to be sick. When they are about their business each day I'm a happy camper. I plead to the Most High for long life for my children with prosperity of whatever kind they choose. So Rina, please be careful. Consider the New Time of diseases we are in, WORLDWIDE.
I thought that pink bulky was really nice. It came across bright and bubbly. And the pattern look=ed nice too. But you want what you want and I completely understand that because I'm that way too. I'm not a person that easily accepts settling. I want what I want and I strive hard for it. And I'm picky. So hope you really hit the bullseye this time and get the great joy you love from knitting. Knitting and Crochet are great time consumers, healers, soul quieters, and snuggly cozy place puters. HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON AND A NEW BLESSED NEW YEAR and I look forward to your future knitting journey stories.
Omg Leena I love your blanket! I’ve been hoarding my Linen Quill minis with the idea of using those in the Bubble Cardigan, but you’ve got me rethinking this! Maybe I need to take advantage of the purl soho sale and just knit both! Ha!
You can not go wrong with making both of these! The bubble cardigan is one of my most worn pieces and now I want to make another out of linen quill. Great idea. You could make the most beautiful color combos because their range is spectacular!
I used to use only acrylic yarn or a mix of it with wool. But now since I’ve used nice yarn I’ve become a bit of a snob too. 🤷🏻♀️ I use acrylic for color work beanies and blankets. I really like the premier non piling yarn. It really holds up nicely. I’ve made several blankets for my grandsons and as gifts for my son’s friend’s babies.
Acrylic definitely has its place! And if you can find a nice blend, they can be lovely. I think using it for something next to skin wasn’t the right idea for me. But I’ll find a use for it in the future, I’m sure.
Colorwork and mosaic are so fun. I know what you mean-I was on a cable kick for a while! It’s just fun to watch those types of projects unfold.
So far I’ve only done one cardigan with a small cable running down the button band. I love it so much. I definitely want to do more with cables.
It’s so glad to see you! I loved seeing your blanket progress. I’ve started mine..just a bit. I’m waiting for the 40 pack but was able to start with that bright Flamingo! How long a cable are you using now that the blanket is at that point? I’ll probably need to get a larger one than I have! I love love the bubble cardigan! Sometimes acrylic blends can be just fine. This time it wasn’t. I do like Lion Brand Wool Ease! It’s like 20% wool, 80% acrylic. Just return the skeins you haven’t used. I can’t wait to hear how you like the Sandes Garn alpaca yarn!
Bright flamingo is 😍 There is literally not one color in there that hasn’t been fun to knit with. And getting to blend them ups the joy even more!!
My cord isn’t even that long. It’s a fixed needle, so I just used the one that I had…honestly I find it easier to knit when there are a lot of stitches squished together. That being said, I think I will have to switch to a longer cord at some point. I have a 50 inch in my Chiaogoo set, but its a bit unwieldy.
Happy Holiday Leena! I am also a knitter from Colorado. I would love to knit and purl with you sometime
Yes! Where do you live?
I live in Lakewood! I'll try to find you on Instagram so we can connect through private messege 🙌
Can you hold a couple or triple yarns from your stash to make the bulky weight ?
That’s what I tried, but I couldn’t find a combo that I loved!
As the mom of a drama girl as well don’t beat yourself up! Annalie will say she is sick and feels too “droopy” to go to school and I fall for it! I’m a softy and she knows! Meanwhile I drag my sorry butt in when I have no business being at work because I call in to stay with her when she is droopy 😂
🙋🏼♀️🇦🇺💕
Please repeat the name of your colorwork cowl (which is adorable, by the way!)
Yes! Mynstur Cowl. Here is the link: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mynstur
@@AnotherKnittingPod thanks so much!
You should have tried Big Birdie Lamb and the Kid. Sound just like what you want
I am determined to try that yarn in the new year! It is quite pricey though. However the colors are so good! I have to find the right project to give it a whirl 😘
I am trying a cheep yarn if anybody has used this yarn what was your experience? It’s Caroline latte cakes. It’s very soft and I was gonna make the cardigan by Veronica Kutovakika darling cardigan. It is a bulky. I am just now doing the gage swatch. It is so soft. Have you ever felt it. Let me know. Has anybody ever used Caron latte cakes? It’s in the white cream. I was just wondering before I make this whole cardigan.
I thought of you with the bulky yarn cause this is considered a bulky but when I knit with it, it’s very nice for a cardigan. Nice feel perfect weight and soft and light for a bulky
So sorry about your little misadventure at the end! I don't have kids but I'm not surprised this can happen. You can't possibly know exactly what to believe 100% of the time. But I'm sure you're doing your best as a mom!
To answer the question about acrylic, no, I don't like it! I don't like knitting it, I don't like wearing it, I don't like how it makes you sweaty, I don't like that it's plastic, I don't like that it's very bad for the environment. The only thing I like about it is using it for making toys for the kids. I don't think it's snob to use natural fibres instead of synthetic stuff and I believe we should really think about how and why we use synthetic fibres when we do so maybe we can start making better choices if possible.
You totally took me back 30 years! I remember taking my 4 children for a family portrait, and the eldest was being so miserable (usually such an easy-going guy). I'm pretty sure I felt a bit impatient with him. Turns out he was coming down with strep throat 🙄😬. Yes, I think we can all relate! Your Polka Dot Cardi is going to be fabulous! I've picked up my Half & Half wrap...been on the needles for 3yrs come January. I'm determined to get it done....and I will NEVER cast on another !! 😅😅
You have four children, Sandra! I knew you were a superhero. I would be impatient all the time if I had 4 😂
I know what you mean. The half and half is quite the undertaking. But I have to say, the end result is pretty spectacular. It was very worth the make, but I too won’t be casting on another.
I am trying a cheep yarn if anybody has used this yarn what was your experience? It’s Caroline latte cakes. It’s very soft and I was gonna make the cardigan by Veronica Kutovakika darling cardigan. It is a bulky. I am just now doing the gage swatch. It is so soft. Have you ever felt it. Let me know. Has anybody ever used Caron latte cakes? It’s in the white cream. I was just wondering before I make this whole cardigan.
Uh no, I don't like acrylic yarn. Quel surprise 😅
😂 Debbie Bliss used to have some really love synthetic blends, but I’m not sure that company is still around!