Thank you for your reply! With your research background I can see why you are so awesome in reviewing and testing needles, etc. Love your videos! I never miss an episode! Your programs and Very Pink Knits are my favorites!
I have used the darning needles with plastic loop at top for about a year. I saw it originally used on a podcast and tracked it down on-line and had it shipped from overseas. I am happy it is now readily available in US. They are fantastic, easy to use with any size yarns. As you stated, the plastic loop at top is very strong, I have never had any problem with it breaking and slides through easily and never hangs up on stitches. Love your show Kristine!.
Hi Christine! Thank you for the look at all the new products, I can’t wait to try them. Especially the Peppermint yarn, how cool 😜 what a bad pun. Can’t wait to see the next video and hope you are staying warm and dry.
Kristine! I always look forward to your videos....they are always informative, creative, and fun! Your hair looks gorgeous. Love what you've been doing with it lately!!! Thank you very much for the intriguing book reviews. I'll be borrowing this one from my local library. Blessings! Beverly
Thank you for a lovely podcast. I especially enjoyed the yarn review, the needles review and the book review. Truly enjoyable podcast. Am going for your links on other types of yarn (already viewed, but worth another look).
Still very new at this hobby much bigger in scope than I ever imagined. So glad you are focused. After starting something b hard to stay focused on one project. I really try to stay away from wips. Lol. Now I have to get something to keep wips in. Not trying to do many
Thank you so much for your review of the Knitter's Pride needle. I tried them based on your recommendation and they are fantastic! I used mine recently while working with a super-bulky yarn and I would have fought with my current needles. I will recommend these to everyone. This is definitely one of those tools where you stop and think "what took so long for someone to come up with these?" Thanks again!
Enjoyed the the yarn reviews! Especially the sock yarns; just ordered a sock needle set. Cant wait to knit my first pair. Looking forward to your upcoming 9" circular reviews. Selda
Thank you for another informative and fun episode. I always enjoy your podcasts. I want to try the new Red Heart Merino wool, based on your review for a winter sweater for me. And, I am intrigued by the peppermint based yarn. It looks like a great yarn for a summer top. I hope you enjoy your spring break! It has been 35 years since I was in college and had a spring break!
What a great video Kristine! I have watched a few of your videos and have now subscribed to your channel. I am a machine knitter who can hand knit very badly, I do try but sadly have never ever finished a hand knitted project :), however I do like the process of handknitting and all of the great benefits one can derive from it. I use handknitting yarns on the machine, as very little is available on cones these days, I mostly knit with wool yarns and knit lots of skirts on the machine. Some of the yarns you showed us today would work up very nicely on the machine, except for the peppermint yarn, it looks so lovely but the lack of stretch and elasticity would prevent me from using it on the machine easily, and for knitting a skirt. I keep thinking about biosynthetics as I love the whole concept around them, I love the sheen and drape but for a fitted skirt I don't think they will work. Do all of them have little to no elasticity and stretch? One other thing I learnt today from your video was how lovely a project looks from sock blanks or the yarn you used today, I love how the kink in the re-knitted yarn works up. I must knit some blanks and use them in a project. Thank you for all the great content you put out!
Hello, and thank you so much. There is actually a lot of yarn available on cones if you look online for "weaving yarn." I know they carry it at places like Paradise Fibers, Webs, and The Woolery. Regarding the biosynthetic yarns, unfortunately most yarns made from plants don't have much elasticity so would probably not work very well in knitting machines. You could actually make sock blanks on your machine with wool yarn, though. :)
Thank you for the wool needle recommendation. I received mine yesterday and have been using them today on a wrap I'm making. I'm hoping the smaller, flexible eye will provide less of an "escape route" for those loose ends!
Thanks for introducing the new yarns I will be on the look out for the lion brand yarn. Looks very interesting. Love your show. Enjoy your Spring break
Loved the review of new and interesting yarns. They were all new to me. I'm glad to see better option being provided at a lower price. I'm looking forward to your small knitting needle review next time. Take care.
Thank you for your research! I haven't heard of any of these yarns before and was really intrigued by the Penelope and Peppermint yarns. I hope that I can find them so that I can try the for myself.
I’m so excited! I was going to browse through your videos to see if you had a small circular needle review and you are doing it for next week! Awesome! Can’t wait! I was also able to finally find you on my Instagram after a few typos. Lol. With regard to this video, very interesting yarns. The only one I’ve heard of is the Sheep Chic by Marly Bird. I haven’t used it because I find ordering online a pain unless it’s on Amazon Prime. I like to browse local yarn shops when I want to buy something special. I honestly can’t see me unraveling the Penelope yarn to knit with but it sure is pretty! Brings me back to when we were reading Homer’s Odyssey in college! Thanks for sharing!
I bought Luminosa at The Knitting Tree in Los Angles CA. I enjoyed knitting with this yarn very much. I made my husband a beanie and he loves wearing it. Soft and smooth. One other thing it dries fast too after hand washing. Love your podcast.
Hello Dr. Kelly, Thank-you and I really enjoy all things “Ewe University” and the Library segment. As a beginner, I appreciate all the research you conduct in preparation of your topics and influencing your shared opinion. I’ve gone back to your earlier segments hoping to learn, hear any tid-bits regarding factors affecting “pilling” of yarns. It was soo discouraging to make lovely fingerless mittens w/colorful acrylic yarn, then to have them pill severely, ugh. Wondering if this is a topic you might consider for a future segment. The influence of cost, use of smaller needles for a tighter stitch…... Thank-you for your attention,
Hi Mary -- thanks so much; glad you are liking my videos. Did you see my episode about pilling? If not, you can watch it here: ruclips.net/video/k4oQhNCPIyk/видео.html Thanks for the topic suggestion. Can you explain a little more what you are thinking with that topic? I'm not sure what you are asking.
Thanx so much for explanations of new yarns & I really like the feature of showing what they look like worked up. Also, thank you for mentioning the name of the 1st book of the Flavia De Luce mysteries. I had paused this video because I was excited to get the 1st book as mysteries is one of my fave genres especially involving young ppl and is right up my alley BUT there is no book order that I could find! Have a good eve & stay safe & warm :)
Informative and interesting! As a audio book fan hearing your reviews introduce me to authors I may never discover on my own. As a novice knitter every Ewe video is educational.
Hi, just discovered your channel through a recommendation from a fiber friend. And I have to say, your channel is pretty awesome. I really appreciate your in-depth reviews. I did want to add that I looked up the Menta yarn, cause who doesn't want a yarn made from peppermint?! And the price must have gone up because its now double the price you listed, $20. I was pretty bummed when i discovered the price had doubled, i was looking forward to purchasing a couple right away but I think I'll put it on my wish list for now. Thank you for all your hard work and honest reviews! I'll definitely be watching more of your videos. :)
Hi Krystal -- thank you so much. Wow, that is so strange that the price went up so much. I even checked my skeins to see if I mis-stated the price, but mine have the price tags of $10 right on them. Thanks for watching! XO
Love your book reviews, so interesting not familiar with Alan Bradly so off to do some research. Also love your new yarn segment. Have a great day. Nancy from Massachusetts.
Hi Kristine. Looking forward to trying the LB Penelope. Thanks for the heads up. I'm interested in the different heels for socks and how to accommodate high arches. Also, your favorite one skein, fingering weight patterns. Have a blessed day.
Thanks for reviewing those new yarns. I’m inspired to try new things. Curious what kind of teacher you are? I can imagine taking a class from you. Your voice is calming to me ♥️.
Great video. I really enjoy your podcast. Great topic for next week... I hope you will be talking about Knitter's Pride Nova Platina Special 16" Interchangeable... I'm thinking on buying them... I will wait for your review on all of them. You previous review on Interchangeable needles helped me to make a decision. Have a great week!
Hi Lory -- thank you. For next week's video I'll be reviewing the tiny circulars, like the 9" ones. I will put the KPs on my list for a future show, though. I'm glad you found my other video informative. :) You have a great week, too! ♥
It’s so funny that you reviewed the latest Flavia de Luce novel. I was listening to it just a few minutes before watching your video! Apparently, that is the current audio book for all knitting psychology professors. I agree that the narrator deserves 10 stars. Have a great Spring Break!
I also LOVE the Flavia books!! And the narrator is so excellent I don't think I could purchase the print copy without the audiobook. And I'm not a professor, but I'm a licensed counselor with a Master's in Psychology so it's so interesting that other women in psychology who like to craft love it too
Hi Mary -- I'm not finding any yarns called sheepishly chic so I'm not sure. Do you mean the Chic Sheep yarn that I reviewed in this video? I would recommend that you look on Ravelry for ideas of what to knit with any yarn. You can do a yarn search and find all kinds of projects to choose from. :)
Do you use the yarn caddy that spins? I have one that was made by a friend’s husband and I love it. There is a post you put through the skein and then it attaches to a base that spins.
Thanks so much for sharing some new yarns. I have never heard of any of them before. It's surprising to see more new yarns pop up. I still think Milk yarn is the weirdest thing lol. First of all I was glad to see Red Heart came out with an affordable wool yarn. I never put yarn by Red Heart down. I used it for many, many years. I wasn't introduced to finer yarns for many years. I didn't have Ravelry or computers while growing up so Red Heart was wonderful and besides that I didn't have the budget for expensive wools. I made many things for my home and for my children with Red heart yarn and gifts as well. Also, for 14 years I entered my projects into the California State Fair and won many ribbons and not one dropped my points for using cheaper yarns. The other yarns you showed look interesting as well. I don't do bulky weight anything so that new one is out. I only like fingering weight up to DK. I occasionally use worsted weight but have to take breaks for my hands. Years ago I used worsted weight a lot but never bulky. Fingering weight is my favorite weight of yarn to use. The only other yarn I might try that you showed is the sock yarn that looks like flat tubes with rainbow colors. I recently tried a sport weight wool with tencel and didn't like it for knitting. Instead I tried it for crocheting and it worked great. :) I'm sorry I wrote so much lol! I don't think it's in me to write short comments :D !! Have a wonderful day Kristine! Sharon / Elvensknits :)
Hi Sharon -- great to hear from you. I love hearing about entering knitting into the local (and state) fairs. I haven't done that for a while but we need to keep the fiber arts alive at these venues. I know, I have seen many, many projects made with less expensive yarns that won ribbons. Glad you enjoyed hearing about the new yarns. XO
When I lived in Miami, FL I had an herb garden (Basil, oregano, thyme, and mint). Well, let me tell you: I began the process of moving and the garden was neglected and the mint took over the whole garden! The lady who bought the house told our real estate agent that she looooved the mint garden! hahahahahaha! So, I can see clearly how you can make a mint yarn easily: it grows like crazy! I would live to try that Penelope yarn, looks like fun and not as expensive as a sock blank. Thanks for your reviews!
That's actually a really interesting point on mint being so tenacious. In a lot of parts of the US mint is so hard to get a handle of that it's actually classified as an invasive species. Which reminded me of kudzu, an invasive plant ravaging the Southern US, that state governments are spending a LOT of money trying to get rid of. It would be interesting if a company were to use the kudzu and help get rid of it.
Thanks for another interesting topic! 🐏 Haven't worked with sock blanks of any kind, yet. Most of the yarn was new to me; thank you for the introduction. I worked with eye-lash yarn before as a border around a shawl ... fun and very soft. It gave the edge a nice weight. 🎇
I follow your podcast for a while now, and I like it very much. Your educational way of podcasting makes it different from others, I like that! By the way: I've never heard of peppermint yarn. I am curious about what you will make with it.
Hello -- well, it's hard to say. Merino is one of the softest sheep's wool, so it doesn't have a prickly feeling at all. If your hands were irritated because of the coarseness of the wool, then I would say go for the Merino because it should be be a more pleasant experience.
Hi Kristine - I just found your channel today and love it! I’m a relatively new crocheter and am now officially addicted! I’ve recently been crocheting handbags and am having so much fun. I am interested in learning how to knit - since I love all the different stitches and looks you can achieve with knitting. My most recent project is using T-shirt yarn and making baskets and purses with the yarn. Have you used T-shirt yarn for any projects? I really like the look, but it is hard on the arms and hands! LOL. Also not sure how many book reviews you do, but looking forward to hearing more since I am an avid reader and I’m always looking for new authors to try. Have a great day thanks for the videos!
Hello, and thank you so much. I haven't used t-shirt yarn, but I have been thinking of doing a review of it and other recycled yarns, so keep an eye out for that. :) I do quite a few book reviews, so I'm glad you enjoy them. XO
Wonderful episode! I kept waiting to hear what the peppermint yarn SMELLED like; everyone talks about 'wooly' wool...I just wondered about 'minty' mint. Already downloaded the book on tape The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie from my library. Always happy to dig into a good series.
Hi Laura -- yes, I think it smelled like peppermint when I first got it. That fresh scent seems to have dissipated now, though. So I'm not sure if it is the natural scent of the yarn or if the yarn shop uses lavender or something like that. :) I hope you love Flavia as much as I do. XO
I have a little problem that I’m hoping for which to find an answer. I have a bookshelf in my bedroom. On one of the sides I have a hook on which I hang my fixed circular needles. I used to keep them in their original packages for storage but I hated the fact that I had to unkink them every time I needed to use one. I was wondering if you have a better storage idea for these needles. I really want to keep them from curling up again. How do you store yours?
Will you also tell me where to download the free sheets that contains information needed to do a project such as type of yarn, date project began, colors used, etc. I am unable to find the episode in which you shared that info. Thanks!
So glad to see your video was on when I woke up! What a treat! You look very pretty. I loved the new yarns you discovered and I can’t wait to try them! Your next video sounds like it’s going to be very informative too! Have you ever taught anyone to knit or crochet? Do you ever discuss knitting or fiber arts with your students since you have this podcast?! I’m sure your students are aware of your videos. I’m interested to know if this art is dying out or if college students are picking it up. I taught my niece to knit and crochet just before she went off to college and she tells me that she has knit presents for her friends and professors! Nice to see a new generation of knitters! Looking forward to all your ideas!
Hello -- it's always so nice to hear from you. Yes, I've taught lots of people how to knit, including many college students. I used to teach an honors seminar on knitting (I taught that class for about 3 years), which became the impetus for my podcast and video series. There are plenty of college students who knit, so I don't think it is dying out at all. I don't know if any of my current students know about my RUclips channel. I haven't talked to any of them about it. I know that some of my former students have watched, though. :)
Very interesting as usual. For your review of small circumference needles, I hope you will knit up a simple swatch using the circ’s , DPN’s, and magic loop. I have found that my gauge is looser with the small circ’s and others have mentioned that too. I’m curious to see if the same is true for you.
Another good one! Have you done one on knitting styles? I m trying to switch to the portuguese style, as my hands are getting bad. And.... loved the book review, flavia sounds like a girl after my heart. My daughter works for the library and usually keeps informed about these type of books, i ll have to have her check it out for me! Thanks,jeannie
I'm always on the lookout for good yarn needles for weaving in ends and seaming, and so appreciated the yarn needle reviews today. Large eyes are much easier to thread, and bent tips slip into the stitches much more easily. Agreed that a combination of the Knitter's Pride large eyes and the Hiya Hiya/Chibi bent tips would be ideal. I think I remember once picking up a set of Boye (I think) yarn needles at Walmart (or maybe it was Susan Bates at Shopko?) which had several color-coded sizes, so one would have just the right size for any kind of yarn. (They also had eyes which ran the full length of the interior of the needle, which made them easier to thread.) They'd really benefit from a little case with a crib sheet on the color-coding, though, so they'd stay together and one could instantly remember which one to reach for with a particular project.
Hello! I love your ideas and agree that a little case like the Chibis have would be awesome for the Knitter's Pride ones. And the color coding key would be great, too. Thanks for your comment! XO
Dr Kelly! Another interesting podcast, the book review makes me want to check out the book. Love the info on the newish yarn needles and the new yarn info is fabulous! What about that minta yarn, does it smell like mint? And I love Lion Heart is coming out with some nice new yarns. Enjoy your day, also I ordered a project bag from your Etsy store several weeks ago and it is one of my favorites (it was the one with the retro kitchen appliances) Thanks!
Hi Elizabeth -- yes, I think it smelled like peppermint when I first got it. That fresh scent seems to have dissipated now, though. So I'm not sure if it is the natural scent of the yarn or if the yarn shop uses lavender or something like that. :) Thank you so much for your nice comment. I'm glad you are enjoying your project bag! XO
At the beginning of the Penelope review, you showed a sock blank, as a reference, but I can't make out the company that made it and you didn't link it in the show notes. I LOVED it and would love to get something like it so if you could provide the shop/company info on that sock blank it would be appreciated! Thanks in advance!
Hello -- sorry it has taken me a while to respond. I kept forgetting to look at the tag of that sock blank. It is from Three Sisters Fiber Co. (which is now Abacus Dyeworks). Here is their web site: www.threesistersmn.com/ The colorway of that sock blank is called "Boathouse," but it was limited edition, and it doesn't look like they have it available on any of their bases right now. Still, you might find something else you like. :)
You do this all so well from video to notes. I always enjoy your book selections. Thank you for saying that one yarn would not be good for baby. I could just see that stuff being inhaled easily.
the Lion Brand Penelope looks interesting. you didn't say if you bought it online or at a store. can you say when and where it is available ? One can never have enough sock yarn- after all it is just one skein. thanks
Hi Kim -- I bought it online from the Lion Brand web site. The link is in the description box under the video. :) Yes, and as we all know, sock yarn doesn't count as stash. XO
I bought many Chic Sheep yarns after watching Marly Bird's RUclips channel last Nov, where a coupon code was offered with 15% off from the RedHeart website. So far I already knitted a cardigan, a sweater, a vest, a brat, a hat and 28 Christmas balls designed by Arne&Carlos. I also casted on an all_the_love sweater designed by Joji Locatelli, and a Dickson skirt designed by Norah Goughan. There are yarns for a colour sweater . Overall, I like Chic Sheep yarns which are soft. Only I had trouble knitting the cable sweater where I tried very hard to tighten my purls and seed stitches because my tension on purls are loser. I tried too hard to use 'flicker' techniques to control my purls, so my right pinky got hurt. The Chic Sheep yarns are recommended using 5mm knitting needles. I think 4mm needles are better to knit cables. ... ... Anyway, I like your yarn reviews, and will try the Lion Brand sock tube yarns named after Greek mythical characters. Best wishes!
Great reviews. I will be looking for the Penelope yarn! I agree that the furry yarn seems a bit silly for a baby blanket. Another possibility is to use it as a lining for a cowl or mitts etc. It would make them very soft and warm I imagine.
Very informative show as always! I’ve never worked with any of these yarns nor have I worked from a sock blank, but I really loved the colors of the one you started knitting up. Also, do you have a go to pattern for fingering weight socks that you enjoy and also what is your favorite heel to do. Btw, your blouse is so pretty! Have a great week Kristine and looking forward to your review of the small circumference needles!
Hi Kristine from Mexico City. I just found your very good and informative videos, even if in Mexico never arrive all these yarnas for me is a good way of dreaming. I am a 69 young woman and I love to knit for my family and friends. But I have a question what it's mean DK in a yarn? Double knit? or Double strand? and sometimes I hear referring to a thicker yarn can you explain to these mexican . that way maybe I can find a yarn here in Mexico for a project woh call for that kind of yarn?. Thank you very much.
Hello Carmen -- so nice to hear from you. DK means "double knit" and it is a weight or thickness of yarn that is in between fingering (sock) weight and worsted weight yarn. Here is a link to the Craft Yarn Council's standard weight system, and you'll see that DK weight yarn is a #3: www.craftyarncouncil.com/weight.html. Thanks for watching! XO
Kristine, thank you very much. As always very informative!!! Really thank you. And YES please the video for to knit a socks, will be very good. And more now that I find a (very expensive) but goo yarn for to knit some sock to my family. I truly enjoy your videos, because I silt learning, I only wish to be able to bay a good yarn in my beautiful birth country. Muchas Gracias!!!!
Hi Kristine, great eposide. I came across a very soft yarn at Michaels made by Loops&Threads called "Poppy". Softest yarn I've knit on (keeping in mind I haven't knit on luxury so far). I was surprised that a yarn 51%Nylon/49%Acrylic could feel like cashmere. There is a slight halo. I can't find it on the Loops&Thread website and am afraid it may have been discontinued. If I find other brands with same material, would you expect them to the same?
Catherine McGrath I wouldn't. In the same way that one all acrylic yarn can look and feel very different than another. Sadly, Michael's is a bit notorious for quickly discontinuing yarns that have hardly been given a chance. I've seen them release new yarns only to see them discontinued before they've ever hit the store shelves. So if you find one you love, and then you see it on sale, stock up. :)
Thanks, Catherine. I agree with @vegangelist in that the content of the yarn doesn't mean they will feel the same. I looked that yarn up on Ravelry and it says that Poppy has been discontinued. It's always so sad when they discontinue one of our favorites! XO
Have you ever tried the series The #1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith? It takes place in Botswana in Africa. There are 18 books in the series. The earlier ones are on audiobook and delightful to listen too.
Kristine. My name is Teresa and my Ravelry name is Honeydripper. The Penelope sock blank rope yarn looks interesting. I am going to buy one or two of them and make socks out of them. The plant based yarn made out of mint leaves sounds pretty cool. How do they do that without it eventually disintegrating? Teresa
Hi Teresa -- nice to hear from you. I did a video last year about biosynthetic yarns, which shows how many of them are made. Although I didn't cover peppermint specifically, I'm sure it is similar to how they make some of the others. You can see the video here: ruclips.net/video/A8m4JztSNlI/видео.html
I've only known about the sheepishly chic but I haven't tried it yet. It's on my list, though. So many yarns, never enough time. ;) I'm surprised I hadn't heard of the Penelope. That is something I'd like to get my hands on. Another new yarn that I haven't yet bought (but have fondled at the store - lol) is by red heart as well (I think they are trying to step up their game). Sure wish I could remember the name. It's a fingering weight, colour-change yarn in 50/50 cotton/acrylic. It is their take on the Scheepjes whirl (at half the price, although the yardage may be slightly less than the Scheepjes? Can't remember for certain.). It's over a thousand yards at ten dollars and, with all that cotton, feels quite lovely. I've only seen it at Michael's and it isn't with the regular yarn. It's next to the crochet thread.
Hello -- oh that sounds nice. I've seen some Red Heart called "It's a Wrap." Looks similar to some of the self-striping yarns I reviewed from the big box stores a couple months ago. Thanks for the info. XO
Loved the podcast. The Knitter's Pride wool needles would be perfect if they had a bent tip. I like the flexible eyes and I'll defiantly give them a try, because the large eyes on some needles I have are just too big.
I’m wondering about the yarn from peppermint fiber for a chemo hat since it might not only protect naked scalps but also provide a cooling effect from the pyretic aftereffects of the chemo. I’m going to try to find some of it.
Hi Dora -- yes, I wondered the same thing about making chemo hats with it. The only thing I worry about is the yarn lacking elasticity. If it performs like bamboo, then I don't think it would work well. I think I'm going to try it, though, and see how the hat turns out. :)
Thanks for the review especially on the Lion brand Penelope, I always wanted to try it.It is a lot cheaper than a sock blank, I am ordering some to make socks. I haven't seen it in the stores so I guess I have to order on line
Kristine, I wonder if you know how to get the "smell" out of llama yarn. I received a hank of llama yarn as a gift. It is so gorgeous, but the smell is outrageously bad! I enjoyed this video. I already put the Flavia series in my Goodreads queue. I am going to order some Knitter's Pride wool needles and I would like to try the Red Heart merino. I think Red Heart is on to the trend that we are all using hand dyed yarns. Good for them, they're keeping up with the trends. I like Cascade 220, it makes great baby hats, so i will be interested in using the Red Heart as they have a similar price point. The mint yarn is gorgeous. I live in Houston and Spring is a suburb of Houston, so I may pop up there one day and buy some mint yarn. I like that you chose a color that looks like the plant. Thanks again for the entertaining and enlightening video.
Hi Maggie -- oh no! Well, I would probably just wash that llama yarn in something like Soak or Eucalan. I wonder if it just wasn't washed that well to begin with. I don't know any other magic method to remove smells. Hope you enjoy the Flavia series. It is one of my favorites, and I am always eagerly awaiting the next book. Now it will probably be another year because the book I reviewed just came out at the end of January. I think you will love those wool needles. I feel like the Chic Sheep yarn is very comparable to Cascade 220 superwash. I am jealous that you live so close to the yarn shop in Spring! It was so hard to track down that peppermint yarn, and I was very excited to finally find it there. Thanks for your comment! XO
HI you did a video on how to wash your finished product. What can be washed and what cant' the meaning of iron and not ironing. Can you tell me what video that was. You ever had a quiz at the end. Thank you.
Hi everyone! I'm a native Illinoisian living in Washington state. I'm also a doll maker and owner of Snicklefarkles on Facebook. My question is I'm looking for a wool sock yarn that would be fairly cheaper then hand painted yarn to make for doll sweaters. As of now I buy hand painted yarn on Etsy and sock yarn from the big box stores. I'm finding wool yarn is pricey out west. Any advice?
Thank you. I do book reviews because (1) I like doing them; (2) many of my viewers like them; and (3) they fit in with the educational theme of my channel. :)
Glad to discover Ewe University. Very informative & entertaining at the same time. Thank you!
Thank you for your reply! With your research background I can see why you are so awesome in reviewing and testing needles, etc. Love your videos! I never miss an episode! Your programs and Very Pink Knits are my favorites!
Excellent show, as always.
Kelly, I always enjoy learning so much about what's in our knitting life that's new. Keep it up.
I have used the darning needles with plastic loop at top for about a year. I saw it originally used on a podcast and tracked it down on-line and had it shipped from overseas. I am happy it is now readily available in US. They are fantastic, easy to use with any size yarns. As you stated, the plastic loop at top is very strong, I have never had any problem with it breaking and slides through easily and never hangs up on stitches. Love your show Kristine!.
Thanks, Paula. Glad you are enjoying those needles. :)
Great episode. Can't get any better than having Books, Yarn and Yarn Tools. Thank you very much, Kristine.
Thanks, Susanna. :)
Hi Christine! Thank you for the look at all the new products, I can’t wait to try them. Especially the Peppermint yarn, how cool 😜 what a bad pun. Can’t wait to see the next video and hope you are staying warm and dry.
Thanks, Kendra. :)
I can't wait to try out the Penelope yarn. Thanks for keeping us up to date!
Kristine! I always look forward to your videos....they are always informative, creative, and fun! Your hair looks gorgeous. Love what you've been doing with it lately!!! Thank you very much for the intriguing book reviews. I'll be borrowing this one from my local library. Blessings! Beverly
Hello -- thank you so much. I hope you enjoy the Flavia books. :)
Love your reviews and opinions. I learn so much from you podcast. Thanks for taking the time to create them.
Thank you for a lovely podcast. I especially enjoyed the yarn review, the needles review and the book review. Truly enjoyable podcast. Am going for your links on other types of yarn (already viewed, but worth another look).
Great show! I had not seen any of these yet! Can’t wait to see you! 😀💜
Still very new at this hobby much bigger in scope than I ever imagined. So glad you are focused. After starting something b hard to stay focused on one project. I really try to stay away from wips. Lol. Now I have to get something to keep wips in. Not trying to do many
Thank you so much for your review of the Knitter's Pride needle. I tried them based on your recommendation and they are fantastic! I used mine recently while working with a super-bulky yarn and I would have fought with my current needles. I will recommend these to everyone. This is definitely one of those tools where you stop and think "what took so long for someone to come up with these?" Thanks again!
Hi Debbi -- so glad to hear that they are working out for you. Thanks for letting me know. XO
A friend just gave me a skein of The Gang yarn today, so I was very glad to hear your review of it. I think all the new yarns sound so interesting!
Hi Cayenne -- nice! Great coincidence that you just got some of this yarn. I hope you enjoy working with it. XO
I love your show so much! Thank you again for all the hard work you put in!!!!
Awww, thanks, Vikki -- so nice to hear from you! ♥♥♥
Enjoyed the the yarn reviews! Especially the sock yarns; just ordered a sock needle set. Cant wait to knit my first pair.
Looking forward to your upcoming 9" circular reviews. Selda
Another great episode. Peppermint yarn sounds fascinating. I'm definitely going to try the new wool yarn from Red Heart.
I love all of your podcasts they are so informative
Thank you for another informative and fun episode. I always enjoy your podcasts. I want to try the new Red Heart Merino wool, based on your review for a winter sweater for me. And, I am intrigued by the peppermint based yarn. It looks like a great yarn for a summer top. I hope you enjoy your spring break! It has been 35 years since I was in college and had a spring break!
What a great video Kristine! I have watched a few of your videos and have now subscribed to your channel. I am a machine knitter who can hand knit very badly, I do try but sadly have never ever finished a hand knitted project :), however I do like the process of handknitting and all of the great benefits one can derive from it. I use handknitting yarns on the machine, as very little is available on cones these days, I mostly knit with wool yarns and knit lots of skirts on the machine. Some of the yarns you showed us today would work up very nicely on the machine, except for the peppermint yarn, it looks so lovely but the lack of stretch and elasticity would prevent me from using it on the machine easily, and for knitting a skirt. I keep thinking about biosynthetics as I love the whole concept around them, I love the sheen and drape but for a fitted skirt I don't think they will work. Do all of them have little to no elasticity and stretch? One other thing I learnt today from your video was how lovely a project looks from sock blanks or the yarn you used today, I love how the kink in the re-knitted yarn works up. I must knit some blanks and use them in a project. Thank you for all the great content you put out!
Hello, and thank you so much. There is actually a lot of yarn available on cones if you look online for "weaving yarn." I know they carry it at places like Paradise Fibers, Webs, and The Woolery. Regarding the biosynthetic yarns, unfortunately most yarns made from plants don't have much elasticity so would probably not work very well in knitting machines. You could actually make sock blanks on your machine with wool yarn, though. :)
Thank you for the wool needle recommendation. I received mine yesterday and have been using them today on a wrap I'm making. I'm hoping the smaller, flexible eye will provide less of an "escape route" for those loose ends!
This was so informative, as are all of your videos, thank you. I definitely want to try the Menta yarn.
Thanks for introducing the new yarns I will be on the look out for the lion brand yarn. Looks very interesting. Love your show. Enjoy your Spring break
Thanks so much, Pat. XO
Loved the review of new and interesting yarns. They were all new to me. I'm glad to see better option being provided at a lower price. I'm looking forward to your small knitting needle review next time. Take care.
Thanks, Marsha. :)
Thank you for your research! I haven't heard of any of these yarns before and was really intrigued by the Penelope and Peppermint yarns. I hope that I can find them so that I can try the for myself.
I’m so excited! I was going to browse through your videos to see if you had a small circular needle review and you are doing it for next week! Awesome! Can’t wait! I was also able to finally find you on my Instagram after a few typos. Lol. With regard to this video, very interesting yarns. The only one I’ve heard of is the Sheep Chic by Marly Bird. I haven’t used it because I find ordering online a pain unless it’s on Amazon Prime.
I like to browse local yarn shops when I want to buy something special. I honestly can’t see me unraveling the Penelope yarn to knit with but it sure is pretty! Brings me back to when we were reading Homer’s Odyssey in college! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Thea -- nice to hear from you. Thanks for watching! XO
Your shows are so interesting! Never heard of mint yarn.
Can’t wait to read the book! Thanks for the podcast and the book review. -Randi
I bought Luminosa at The Knitting Tree in Los Angles CA. I enjoyed knitting with this yarn very much. I made my husband a beanie and he loves wearing it. Soft and smooth. One other thing it dries fast too after hand washing. Love your podcast.
Hi Cindi -- that's awesome. Thank you so much. XO
Kristine, you do a great job! Very informative.
Hello Dr. Kelly,
Thank-you and I really enjoy all things “Ewe University” and the Library segment.
As a beginner, I appreciate all the research you conduct in preparation of your topics and influencing your shared opinion. I’ve gone back to your earlier segments hoping to learn, hear any tid-bits regarding factors affecting “pilling” of yarns. It was soo discouraging to make lovely fingerless mittens w/colorful acrylic yarn, then to have them pill severely, ugh.
Wondering if this is a topic you might consider for a future segment. The influence of cost, use of smaller needles for a tighter stitch…...
Thank-you for your attention,
Hi Mary -- thanks so much; glad you are liking my videos. Did you see my episode about pilling? If not, you can watch it here: ruclips.net/video/k4oQhNCPIyk/видео.html
Thanks for the topic suggestion. Can you explain a little more what you are thinking with that topic? I'm not sure what you are asking.
Thanks for the great book review! I am reading the first book in the series and I love it.
Thanx so much for explanations of new yarns & I really like the feature of showing what they look like worked up. Also, thank you for mentioning the name of the 1st book of the Flavia De Luce mysteries. I had paused this video because I was excited to get the 1st book as mysteries is one of my fave genres especially involving young ppl and is right up my alley BUT there is no book order that I could find! Have a good eve & stay safe & warm :)
Hi Kathy -- hope you found the Flavia series. Good to hear from you! XO
Thank you so much for sharing about all these new yarns! So interesting and fascinating!
Informative and interesting! As a audio book fan hearing your reviews introduce me to authors I may never discover on my own. As a novice knitter every Ewe video is educational.
Thanks, Paul. :)
Hi, just discovered your channel through a recommendation from a fiber friend. And I have to say, your channel is pretty awesome. I really appreciate your in-depth reviews. I did want to add that I looked up the Menta yarn, cause who doesn't want a yarn made from peppermint?! And the price must have gone up because its now double the price you listed, $20. I was pretty bummed when i discovered the price had doubled, i was looking forward to purchasing a couple right away but I think I'll put it on my wish list for now. Thank you for all your hard work and honest reviews! I'll definitely be watching more of your videos. :)
Hi Krystal -- thank you so much. Wow, that is so strange that the price went up so much. I even checked my skeins to see if I mis-stated the price, but mine have the price tags of $10 right on them. Thanks for watching! XO
As always, interesting & informative 👏 . I placed the Flavia book on hold on Overdrive 😀
I broke a knitters pride needle not long ago but it gave me 5 long months of hard work and love, they are cheap enough, I just bought more :)
Love your book reviews, so interesting not familiar with Alan Bradly so off to do some research. Also love your new yarn segment. Have a great day. Nancy from Massachusetts.
Hi Kristine. Looking forward to trying the LB Penelope. Thanks for the heads up. I'm interested in the different heels for socks and how to accommodate high arches. Also, your favorite one skein, fingering weight patterns. Have a blessed day.
Hello Roseana -- thanks for the suggestions. I will add them to my list. XO
Thanks for reviewing those new yarns. I’m inspired to try new things. Curious what kind of teacher you are? I can imagine taking a class from you. Your voice is calming to me ♥️.
Aww, thanks, Shannon. I'm a psychology professor. :)
Thanks for another great episode, lots of yarns that I didn’t know about...I may give that Lion Brand Penelope a try.🙂
Great video. I really enjoy your podcast.
Great topic for next week...
I hope you will be talking about Knitter's Pride Nova Platina Special 16" Interchangeable... I'm thinking on buying them... I will wait for your review on all of them.
You previous review on Interchangeable needles helped me to make a decision.
Have a great week!
Hi Lory -- thank you. For next week's video I'll be reviewing the tiny circulars, like the 9" ones. I will put the KPs on my list for a future show, though. I'm glad you found my other video informative. :) You have a great week, too! ♥
It’s so funny that you reviewed the latest Flavia de Luce novel. I was listening to it just a few minutes before watching your video! Apparently, that is the current audio book for all knitting psychology professors. I agree that the narrator deserves 10 stars. Have a great Spring Break!
Hi Virginia -- great minds think alike. :)
I also LOVE the Flavia books!! And the narrator is so excellent I don't think I could purchase the print copy without the audiobook. And I'm not a professor, but I'm a licensed counselor with a Master's in Psychology so it's so interesting that other women in psychology who like to craft love it too
Love those wool needles! What a great idea. Looking forward to trying the new Red Heart
Chic Sheep.
Hi Frances -- I think you will love the wool needles and enjoy the yarn. :)
Loved the video! Can’t wait to try the Penelope yarn😊
I have sheepishly chic. What would you make or what needle would you use if you’re just learning to knit
Hi Mary -- I'm not finding any yarns called sheepishly chic so I'm not sure. Do you mean the Chic Sheep yarn that I reviewed in this video? I would recommend that you look on Ravelry for ideas of what to knit with any yarn. You can do a yarn search and find all kinds of projects to choose from. :)
Do you use the yarn caddy that spins? I have one that was made by a friend’s husband and I love it. There is a post you put through the skein and then it attaches to a base that spins.
I have one of those and use it once in a while. I will probably do a review of it in a future video. :)
Thanks so much for sharing some new yarns. I have never heard of any of them before. It's surprising to see more new yarns pop up. I still think Milk yarn is the weirdest thing lol. First of all I was glad to see Red Heart came out with an affordable wool yarn. I never put yarn by Red Heart down. I used it for many, many years. I wasn't introduced to finer yarns for many years. I didn't have Ravelry or computers while growing up so Red Heart was wonderful and besides that I didn't have the budget for expensive wools. I made many things for my home and for my children with Red heart yarn and gifts as well.
Also, for 14 years I entered my projects into the California State Fair and won many ribbons and not one dropped my points for using cheaper yarns.
The other yarns you showed look interesting as well. I don't do bulky weight anything so that new one is out. I only like fingering weight up to DK. I occasionally use worsted weight but have to take breaks for my hands. Years ago I used worsted weight a lot but never bulky. Fingering weight is my favorite weight of yarn to use. The only other yarn I might try that you showed is the sock yarn that looks like flat tubes with rainbow colors. I recently tried a sport weight wool with tencel and didn't like it for knitting. Instead I tried it for crocheting and it worked great. :)
I'm sorry I wrote so much lol! I don't think it's in me to write short comments :D !!
Have a wonderful day Kristine!
Sharon / Elvensknits :)
Hi Sharon -- great to hear from you. I love hearing about entering knitting into the local (and state) fairs. I haven't done that for a while but we need to keep the fiber arts alive at these venues. I know, I have seen many, many projects made with less expensive yarns that won ribbons. Glad you enjoyed hearing about the new yarns. XO
When I lived in Miami, FL I had an herb garden (Basil, oregano, thyme, and mint). Well, let me tell you: I began the process of moving and the garden was neglected and the mint took over the whole garden! The lady who bought the house told our real estate agent that she looooved the mint garden! hahahahahaha! So, I can see clearly how you can make a mint yarn easily: it grows like crazy! I would live to try that Penelope yarn, looks like fun and not as expensive as a sock blank. Thanks for your reviews!
Hello -- loved hearing about your mint story. :) Yes, I think you will enjoy the Penelope yarn, especially if you like using sock blanks. XO
That's actually a really interesting point on mint being so tenacious. In a lot of parts of the US mint is so hard to get a handle of that it's actually classified as an invasive species. Which reminded me of kudzu, an invasive plant ravaging the Southern US, that state governments are spending a LOT of money trying to get rid of. It would be interesting if a company were to use the kudzu and help get rid of it.
Yes! It's so sad to see the kudzu growing everywhere. Great idea!
Hi Dr. Kelly! Will you please tell me where I can but the plastic gauge counter with the plastic grip teeth? Thanks!
Hi Susan -- it's an Akerworks (if I'm understanding you correctly): www.akerworks.com/collections/swatch-gauges
Thanks for another interesting topic! 🐏 Haven't worked with sock blanks of any kind, yet. Most of the yarn was new to me; thank you for the introduction. I worked with eye-lash yarn before as a border around a shawl ... fun and very soft. It gave the edge a nice weight. 🎇
Hello so enjoyed this video, I really learned so much. Never used most . Hope I will find some of these Yarns. Thank u
I love the Alan Bradley books, Flavia is a great character.
I follow your podcast for a while now, and I like it very much. Your educational way of podcasting makes it different from others, I like that! By the way: I've never heard of peppermint yarn. I am curious about what you will make with it.
Thank you! ♥
The wool yarn I've used before left my hands red and ichy . Do you think the merino will too?
Hello -- well, it's hard to say. Merino is one of the softest sheep's wool, so it doesn't have a prickly feeling at all. If your hands were irritated because of the coarseness of the wool, then I would say go for the Merino because it should be be a more pleasant experience.
Hi Kristine - I just found your channel today and love it! I’m a relatively new crocheter and am now officially addicted! I’ve recently been crocheting handbags and am having so much fun. I am interested in learning how to knit - since I love all the different stitches and looks you can achieve with knitting. My most recent project is using T-shirt yarn and making baskets and purses with the yarn. Have you used T-shirt yarn for any projects? I really like the look, but it is hard on the arms and hands! LOL. Also not sure how many book reviews you do, but looking forward to hearing more since I am an avid reader and I’m always looking for new authors to try. Have a great day thanks for the videos!
Hello, and thank you so much. I haven't used t-shirt yarn, but I have been thinking of doing a review of it and other recycled yarns, so keep an eye out for that. :) I do quite a few book reviews, so I'm glad you enjoy them. XO
Wonderful episode! I kept waiting to hear what the peppermint yarn SMELLED like; everyone talks about 'wooly' wool...I just wondered about 'minty' mint.
Already downloaded the book on tape The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie from my library. Always happy to dig into a good series.
Hi Laura -- yes, I think it smelled like peppermint when I first got it. That fresh scent seems to have dissipated now, though. So I'm not sure if it is the natural scent of the yarn or if the yarn shop uses lavender or something like that. :) I hope you love Flavia as much as I do. XO
I have a little problem that I’m hoping for which to find an answer. I have a bookshelf in my bedroom. On one of the sides I have a hook on which I hang my fixed circular needles. I used to keep them in their original packages for storage but I hated the fact that I had to unkink them every time I needed to use one. I was wondering if you have a better storage idea for these needles. I really want to keep them from curling up again. How do you store yours?
Hello -- you inspired me to do a video on this topic. I'm working on it for next week. :)
Another great episode. I've not tried any of those yet, but will keep an eye out for some of them. It's about time Redheart is getting with the times.
Will you also tell me where to download the free sheets that contains information needed to do a project such as type of yarn, date project began, colors used, etc. I am unable to find the episode in which you shared that info. Thanks!
Hi Susan -- it is all in the "Festive Freebies" episode from late last year: ruclips.net/video/RzqvGvR9UWg/видео.html
That book series sounds good.
I am gonna look into that. Thx
Hello -- glad to hear it, and hope you enjoy the series. XO
So glad to see your video was on when I woke up! What a treat! You look very pretty. I loved the new yarns you discovered and I can’t wait to try them! Your next video sounds like it’s going to be very informative too! Have you ever taught anyone to knit or crochet? Do you ever discuss knitting or fiber arts with your students since you have this podcast?! I’m sure your students are aware of your videos. I’m interested to know if this art is dying out or if college students are picking it up. I taught my niece to knit and crochet just before she went off to college and she tells me that she has knit presents for her friends and professors! Nice to see a new generation of knitters! Looking forward to all your ideas!
Hello -- it's always so nice to hear from you. Yes, I've taught lots of people how to knit, including many college students. I used to teach an honors seminar on knitting (I taught that class for about 3 years), which became the impetus for my podcast and video series. There are plenty of college students who knit, so I don't think it is dying out at all. I don't know if any of my current students know about my RUclips channel. I haven't talked to any of them about it. I know that some of my former students have watched, though. :)
Very interesting as usual. For your review of small circumference needles, I hope you will knit up a simple swatch using the circ’s , DPN’s, and magic loop. I have found that my gauge is looser with the small circ’s and others have mentioned that too. I’m curious to see if the same is true for you.
Hi Karen -- thank you. I'm working on it and will do as much as I can. :)
Hi Buddy, What do you think of crocheting Penelope as is, maybe for a chair pad?
Hello -- well, I'm not a crocheter so am not sure. It might work. But it might be too bulky. You would need a giant crochet hook.
Thank you, will have to try at least 2 of these. Katrina Creations mentioned you did a review. Let you know.
Hi Louise -- yes, do let me know. I have to catch up with Katrina's podcast. XO
Does the mint yarn smell like mint?
Mint yarn! Hadn't heard of that one. Since I'm playing catch up on your channel, hopefully you've made something from the mint yarn.
Another good one! Have you done one on knitting styles? I m trying to switch to the portuguese style, as my hands are getting bad. And.... loved the book review, flavia sounds like a girl after my heart. My daughter works for the library and usually keeps informed about these type of books, i ll have to have her check it out for me! Thanks,jeannie
Hello -- I haven't done a video about knitting styles yet but put that on my list. Thanks for the suggestion. I hope you enjoy the Flavia books! :)
I'm always on the lookout for good yarn needles for weaving in ends and seaming, and so appreciated the yarn needle reviews today. Large eyes are much easier to thread, and bent tips slip into the stitches much more easily. Agreed that a combination of the Knitter's Pride large eyes and the Hiya Hiya/Chibi bent tips would be ideal. I think I remember once picking up a set of Boye (I think) yarn needles at Walmart (or maybe it was Susan Bates at Shopko?) which had several color-coded sizes, so one would have just the right size for any kind of yarn. (They also had eyes which ran the full length of the interior of the needle, which made them easier to thread.) They'd really benefit from a little case with a crib sheet on the color-coding, though, so they'd stay together and one could instantly remember which one to reach for with a particular project.
Hello! I love your ideas and agree that a little case like the Chibis have would be awesome for the Knitter's Pride ones. And the color coding key would be great, too. Thanks for your comment! XO
Yarn Store Boutique is our LYS!!! I'll have to look for that there. :)
Oh you are so lucky! XO
Dr Kelly! Another interesting podcast, the book review makes me want to check out the book. Love the info on the newish yarn needles and the new yarn info is fabulous! What about that minta yarn, does it smell like mint? And I love Lion Heart is coming out with some nice new yarns. Enjoy your day, also I ordered a project bag from your Etsy store several weeks ago and it is one of my favorites (it was the one with the retro kitchen appliances) Thanks!
Hi Elizabeth -- yes, I think it smelled like peppermint when I first got it. That fresh scent seems to have dissipated now, though. So I'm not sure if it is the natural scent of the yarn or if the yarn shop uses lavender or something like that. :) Thank you so much for your nice comment. I'm glad you are enjoying your project bag! XO
At the beginning of the Penelope review, you showed a sock blank, as a reference, but I can't make out the company that made it and you didn't link it in the show notes. I LOVED it and would love to get something like it so if you could provide the shop/company info on that sock blank it would be appreciated! Thanks in advance!
Hello -- sorry it has taken me a while to respond. I kept forgetting to look at the tag of that sock blank. It is from Three Sisters Fiber Co. (which is now Abacus Dyeworks). Here is their web site: www.threesistersmn.com/ The colorway of that sock blank is called "Boathouse," but it was limited edition, and it doesn't look like they have it available on any of their bases right now. Still, you might find something else you like. :)
You do this all so well from video to notes. I always enjoy your book selections. Thank you for saying that one yarn would not be good for baby. I could just see that stuff being inhaled easily.
Thanks, Kimberly. :)
the Lion Brand Penelope looks interesting. you didn't say if you bought it online or at a store. can you say when and where it is available ? One can never have enough sock yarn- after all it is just one skein. thanks
Hi Kim -- I bought it online from the Lion Brand web site. The link is in the description box under the video. :) Yes, and as we all know, sock yarn doesn't count as stash. XO
I bought many Chic Sheep yarns after watching Marly Bird's RUclips channel last Nov, where a coupon code was offered with 15% off from the RedHeart website. So far I already knitted a cardigan, a sweater, a vest, a brat, a hat and 28 Christmas balls designed by Arne&Carlos. I also casted on an all_the_love sweater designed by Joji Locatelli, and a Dickson skirt designed by Norah Goughan. There are yarns for a colour sweater . Overall, I like Chic Sheep yarns which are soft. Only I had trouble knitting the cable sweater where I tried very hard to tighten my purls and seed stitches because my tension on purls are loser. I tried too hard to use 'flicker' techniques to control my purls, so my right pinky got hurt. The Chic Sheep yarns are recommended using 5mm knitting needles. I think 4mm needles are better to knit cables. ... ... Anyway, I like your yarn reviews, and will try the Lion Brand sock tube yarns named after Greek mythical characters. Best wishes!
Thanks, Cindy. It's great that you got a discount! Your projects sound lovely, except for your finger injury. XO
Great reviews. I will be looking for the Penelope yarn! I agree that the furry yarn seems a bit silly for a baby blanket. Another possibility is to use it as a lining for a cowl or mitts etc. It would make them very soft and warm I imagine.
I love that idea! XO
Very informative show as always! I’ve never worked with any of these yarns nor have I worked from a sock blank, but I really loved the colors of the one you started knitting up. Also, do you have a go to pattern for fingering weight socks that you enjoy and also what is your favorite heel to do. Btw, your blouse is so pretty! Have a great week Kristine and looking forward to your review of the small circumference needles!
Awww, thanks, Jen. I like Susan B. Anderson's sock recipe, and I usually just do a standard heel flap, etc. You have a great week, too! XO
Very interesting! Well done! Enjoy your break! Happy knitting!
Thanks, Gayle. XO
My yarn mojo has been low lately. This helps me get interested again. Do you do any embroidery or cross stitch? Enjoyed the show as always-hugs Amy
Hi Amy -- so glad to hear this. I lose my knitting mojo sometimes, too, so I understand. :) I don't do embroidery or cross stitch. XO
Hi Kristine from Mexico City. I just found your very good and informative videos, even if in Mexico never arrive all these yarnas for me is a good way of dreaming. I am a 69 young woman and I love to knit for my family and friends. But I have a question what it's mean DK in a yarn? Double knit? or Double strand? and sometimes I hear referring to a thicker yarn can you explain to these mexican . that way maybe I can find a yarn here in Mexico for a project woh call for that kind of yarn?. Thank you very much.
Hello Carmen -- so nice to hear from you. DK means "double knit" and it is a weight or thickness of yarn that is in between fingering (sock) weight and worsted weight yarn. Here is a link to the Craft Yarn Council's standard weight system, and you'll see that DK weight yarn is a #3: www.craftyarncouncil.com/weight.html. Thanks for watching! XO
Kristine, thank you very much. As always very informative!!! Really thank you. And YES please the video for to knit a socks, will be very good. And more now that I find a (very expensive) but goo yarn for to knit some sock to my family. I truly enjoy your videos, because I silt learning, I only wish to be able to bay a good yarn in my beautiful birth country. Muchas Gracias!!!!
Hi Kristine, great eposide.
I came across a very soft yarn at Michaels made by Loops&Threads called "Poppy".
Softest yarn I've knit on (keeping in mind I haven't knit on luxury so far).
I was surprised that a yarn 51%Nylon/49%Acrylic could feel like cashmere.
There is a slight halo.
I can't find it on the Loops&Thread website and am afraid it may have been discontinued.
If I find other brands with same material, would you expect them to the same?
Catherine McGrath I wouldn't. In the same way that one all acrylic yarn can look and feel very different than another.
Sadly, Michael's is a bit notorious for quickly discontinuing yarns that have hardly been given a chance.
I've seen them release new yarns only to see them discontinued before they've ever hit the store shelves.
So if you find one you love, and then you see it on sale, stock up. :)
Thanks, Catherine. I agree with @vegangelist in that the content of the yarn doesn't mean they will feel the same. I looked that yarn up on Ravelry and it says that Poppy has been discontinued. It's always so sad when they discontinue one of our favorites! XO
Have you ever tried the series The #1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith? It takes place in Botswana in Africa. There are 18 books in the series. The earlier ones are on audiobook and delightful to listen too.
Yes, that is another one of my favorite series. I've read quite a few of them, but not all. :)
Kristine. My name is Teresa and my Ravelry name is Honeydripper. The Penelope sock blank rope yarn looks interesting. I am going to buy one or two of them and make socks out of them. The plant based yarn made out of mint leaves sounds pretty cool. How do they do that without it eventually disintegrating? Teresa
Hi Teresa -- nice to hear from you. I did a video last year about biosynthetic yarns, which shows how many of them are made. Although I didn't cover peppermint specifically, I'm sure it is similar to how they make some of the others. You can see the video here: ruclips.net/video/A8m4JztSNlI/видео.html
I've only known about the sheepishly chic but I haven't tried it yet. It's on my list, though.
So many yarns, never enough time. ;)
I'm surprised I hadn't heard of the Penelope. That is something I'd like to get my hands on.
Another new yarn that I haven't yet bought (but have fondled at the store - lol) is by red heart as well (I think they are trying to step up their game). Sure wish I could remember the name.
It's a fingering weight, colour-change yarn in 50/50 cotton/acrylic. It is their take on the Scheepjes whirl (at half the price, although the yardage may be slightly less than the Scheepjes? Can't remember for certain.). It's over a thousand yards at ten dollars and, with all that cotton, feels quite lovely.
I've only seen it at Michael's and it isn't with the regular yarn. It's next to the crochet thread.
Hello -- oh that sounds nice. I've seen some Red Heart called "It's a Wrap." Looks similar to some of the self-striping yarns I reviewed from the big box stores a couple months ago. Thanks for the info. XO
Loved the podcast. The Knitter's Pride wool needles would be perfect if they had a bent tip. I like the flexible eyes and I'll defiantly give them a try, because the large eyes on some needles I have are just too big.
I’m wondering about the yarn from peppermint fiber for a chemo hat since it might not only protect naked scalps but also provide a cooling effect from the pyretic aftereffects of the chemo. I’m going to try to find some of it.
Hi Dora -- yes, I wondered the same thing about making chemo hats with it. The only thing I worry about is the yarn lacking elasticity. If it performs like bamboo, then I don't think it would work well. I think I'm going to try it, though, and see how the hat turns out. :)
I'm thinking that the fact that knitting is elastic may, when combined with appropriate stitches, may yield enough stretchiness. We'll see.
Thanks for the review especially on the Lion brand Penelope, I always wanted to try it.It is a lot cheaper than a sock blank, I am ordering some to make socks. I haven't seen it in the stores so I guess I have to order on line
Hi Carrie -- yes, I don't think it is available in stores. Hopefully it will be soon. :)
Is all that yarn behind you your stash, or do you have a shop? I'm just up the road, so if it's a shop, I'd love to check it out. 😊
Hello -- it's my stash. :) Where do you live?
Aledo. And jealous of that stash!
I enjoyed this review. Where do you find faux fur pom poms.
I got some at Jimmy Beans Wool for $2 apiece. :)
Kristine, I wonder if you know how to get the "smell" out of llama yarn. I received a hank of llama yarn as a gift. It is so gorgeous, but the smell is outrageously bad! I enjoyed this video. I already put the Flavia series in my Goodreads queue. I am going to order some Knitter's Pride wool needles and I would like to try the Red Heart merino. I think Red Heart is on to the trend that we are all using hand dyed yarns. Good for them, they're keeping up with the trends. I like Cascade 220, it makes great baby hats, so i will be interested in using the Red Heart as they have a similar price point. The mint yarn is gorgeous. I live in Houston and Spring is a suburb of Houston, so I may pop up there one day and buy some mint yarn. I like that you chose a color that looks like the plant. Thanks again for the entertaining and enlightening video.
Hi Maggie -- oh no! Well, I would probably just wash that llama yarn in something like Soak or Eucalan. I wonder if it just wasn't washed that well to begin with. I don't know any other magic method to remove smells. Hope you enjoy the Flavia series. It is one of my favorites, and I am always eagerly awaiting the next book. Now it will probably be another year because the book I reviewed just came out at the end of January. I think you will love those wool needles. I feel like the Chic Sheep yarn is very comparable to Cascade 220 superwash. I am jealous that you live so close to the yarn shop in Spring! It was so hard to track down that peppermint yarn, and I was very excited to finally find it there. Thanks for your comment! XO
@@EweUniversity I live in Ft Worth, TX, & you can bet your sheep shears that I am going to find Spring so I can go yarning.
very interesting! Thank you for doing this
Would like those yarn needles. A great idea to have a flexible loop
Kristine, are you strictly a knitting person? Or have you tried the loom knitter?...ic
Hello -- yes, I'm a knitter only. I haven't tried any loom knitting. :)
HI you did a video on how to wash your finished product. What can be washed and what cant' the meaning of iron and not ironing. Can you tell me what video that was. You ever had a quiz at the end. Thank you.
Hi Phyllis -- I see you found it. 😊
Thank you so very much!
You look really happy & healthy in this video Kristine. Loving your hair. The yarns are interesting, my husband says $25 for some yarn LOL. xxJane
Hi Jane -- oh my gosh, thank you so much. I felt like my hair was a mess, honestly. :) I'm glad it didn't come off that way in the video, haha! XO
love this thanks Aleta Sneed
Hi everyone! I'm a native Illinoisian living in Washington state. I'm also a doll maker and owner of Snicklefarkles on Facebook. My question is I'm looking for a wool sock yarn that would be fairly cheaper then hand painted yarn to make for doll sweaters. As of now I buy hand painted yarn on Etsy and sock yarn from the big box stores. I'm finding wool yarn is pricey out west. Any advice?
Hello -- for doll sweaters, I would definitely be looking for less expensive yarns at the big box stores. :)
Like your podcast, very informative- but why the book reviews?
Thank you. I do book reviews because (1) I like doing them; (2) many of my viewers like them; and (3) they fit in with the educational theme of my channel. :)