The cost looks reasonable when compared to the yarns used by a lot of RUclips knitters. Compare that to what you'd spend on acrylic in a retail shop, and you're ahead of the game. Aside from being a creative hobby, you've got lots of wonderful garments to wear and a growing family to knit for. Frog the blue hat 🐸 Happy knitting from Hamilton, ON.
definetly keep those handknits! I wash them and put them in pillow cases in storage. they can be saved for keepsakes or for grand kids, or if I have that one last baby!
I really enjoy all the details, dollars and all, that you share about your knits. Must have been exhausting to film, but truly great content. The transparency of cost is really refreshing. Also, Tiberius is gorgeous.
Thanks so much for watching! It was exhausting, but everyone's kind comments do really help and make me feel good I did it. And yes, he's a handsome cat! 😻
The rust/orange mohair top is both a beautiful color for you and the shape gives you variety. Wear it with your fav beige pants to see the beauty of the color. Collect tank top type garments to wear under knitwear to protect it from skin oils. Beautiful fit on the dress.
I have saved everything that I knit for my children and have fantasies about them having children that wear them one day. I try to let go of stuff but these remain treasures that give me joy, even as they hibernate. My children, who are teenagers now, seem to feel the same way, which makes me happier still! Enjoyed your video, as always! Thank you for taking the time to create it!
Most likely I'll be keeping everything too - definitely precious treasures even if they don't get worn again. Thanks so much for taking the time to watch!
For the Hannah cardigan- maybe embroidering some flowers on it in bright colors that Darci likes will make her want to wear it more? It is absolutely beautiful
About washing : a sweater mostly doesn’t touch you skin where it sweats, and if it’s not obviously dirty (visually or by smell) there’s no point in washing it. I really like the fact that you break down precisely the cost of each garment. Thanks :)
That orange sweater looks really good on you. I think it’s just because you’re not used to the bold color but it looks fabulous on you and my feeling about the cost that you spent on all of those garments. Oh my goodness that was not bad at all, and considering of the enjoyment that you had knittingand knitted so many garments that look good on you and for your daughter also, that was not a lot when you think about it. And you have a lot to show for it for your hobby. Amazing.
Hey Melissa! I just wanted you to know that out of all the knitting podcasts that I watch, I find yours the most helpful and informative, especially episodes like these, where you evaluate what you knit and how each project fits, as well as how the pattern worked with the yarn, and how the pattern worked for you, as a knitter. Thank you so much!
A random comment …. But from another Mom, I’m constantly needing to push up my sleeves and there is not one long sleeve top I own that will stay up and I got so frustrated with what a mess all my sleeves were, I started keeping elastics in my pockets and/or somewhere easily accessible so I could slip them onto my forearms and hike my sleeves up and out of the way and have them stay put. Has saved many a top by now … 😉 Beautiful knits. Maybe it’s because of movies like “When Harry Met Sally” and “Knives Out”, I think of cable knits as very cozy fall sweaters. That perfect sweater weather when you can wear one outside with maybe a light weight beanie and a scarf and be plenty warm enough 😊. I think considering the average cost out there for a retail purchased wool/cashmere/marino sweater is ~ $200 and that a well made item constructed with high quality material will last possibly for generations … I think it’s a good deal. Also, just think of your daughter inheriting one of your hand made sweaters and then passing that on to her own child some day ….. that’s priceless. Besides, there are always sales, thrifting yarn ….
I kept all the knits I made for my kids. My daughter is now 24 years old and a few weeks ago, we dug through the cedar chest and pulled out all the old knits. She loved seeing them again and remembering them and wants them for her kids whenever that ends up happening! I vote for keeping them
To reduce waste you could possibly extend the length of your daughters skirt gradually with leftover yarn so that it's a unique colour and grows with her!
Hello your knits are wonderful!! I’m probably three times your age! And I love it when people say did you knit it, I love my knits looking slightly imperfect, I don’t want it to look mass produced! Also from snowy Canada 🎉
In my honest opinion, before frogging it, I would try to put elastic in the sleeves ribbing of the orange sweater. It would perhaps look cuter with puffy short sleeves. Just an idea....
Fantastic roundup Melissa! I love that your goal this year is to slow down and I’m looking forward to seeing your self drafted patterns. (Also loved seeing Tiberius make a cameo!)
Thanks for your thoughts on your projects. I’ve learned a lot. You’ve answered some questions that I had with certain patterns. So…thank you. You really are a beautiful knitter!
Loved hearing your thoughts on all of your makes - you can definitely tell by your demeanor which ones you love the most. I really appreciate you including the project costs, and look forward to your thoughts on how you feel about the total for the year. And I would love a me size version of your daughter's pink pullover, it looks so cozy ❤
wow i really enjoyed yr rundown of all your knits - so precise and insightful! i think you chose really great designs and colours that look very flattering on you too and they all look very “finished”. am very inspired by a lot of your makes!!
You've made so many lovely items! I particularly liked the Biella Sweater (genius idea to elasticize elbows), the Sake Cardi, and the Velen Tee. (And yes, I do think you could wear the Moby Sweater in the autumn, def not just a Xmas thing.)
When my daughter was little she also was warm all the time. Her classroom was warm so she would wear capri pants and a tank top under her down snowsuit to school everyday. I'm sure other parents thought I was NUTS! But it was what she needed 😊
Love your podcast! Just found it. And oh my goodness. I agree about tanks under a sweater; it’s a must for me too! But that Moby sweater doesn’t say Christmas to me at all! LOL. It says fall/winter/early spring - classic cable knit sweater! ❤ I need one!
I really enjoyed this. The blue hat looks stunning on you, and the yarn and design definitely chic and classy. My grown up daughter is petite too and I do struggle finding patterns she likes which don’t drown her! I always learn loads from you, thank you ❤
Such a lovely discovery! I really enjoy the moment and all these wonderful works! Quiet inspiring except the "budget section"🤣🤣🤣 Thank you so much for sharing ! Natalie (Belgium)
Great video. Thanks for sharing. I would love to know more about exactly what elastic thread you use to sew into your sweaters and how you do it. I’m an experienced knitter but I have not had any experience with that. Also love love love your Audrey dress. So good!
I've been getting lots of questions about elastic thread so I'll definitely provide more information on that in a future video. Thanks so much for watching!
You are gorgeous and I love all your knits ❤ I thought the mohair color really suits your skin tone. I'd also wish the slide with information/photo of the knits stay a bit longer for reading too
Just finished your video today, a little bit late. But great. Thank you very much for all your thoughts and your honesty in sharing the experiences and the cost.
Just found you… live in Richmond BC and am a new knitter so enjoying your posts particularly sizing, yarns used and cost from a local perspective. Your esthetics are lovely and really appreciate what you do.. just want to say thanks….
Wow! You made some very beautiful pieces! I am a an intermediate beginner, I have not tackled a sweater yet! It's on my list this year! Anyway, I always always wear some thing under my sweaters to protect them from body oils and deodorant. A short sleeve 💯 % silk Tee is my go to... as is a silk blouse... love natural fibers! 😊❤. Really enjoyed hearing about the tweaks and things you would have done differently in these knitting projects… very informative!
Mel, I so appreciate you talking about the financial side of knitting! I've just started my own knitting podcast and it's important to me to do the same, so I had to give you a shoutout in my first video for being one of the inspirations. Thank you! 😄
I know lots of other people have commented on it already, but please keep at least some of the handknits you make for your daughter! My daughter's first Easter is coming up, and my mom was telling me how she hand sewed all of my Easter dresses as a child. I would have LOVED for my daughter to be able to wear one of those dresses, but my mom didnt keep a single one, and it breaks my heart that I'm not able to pass something so special on to my baby.
Hello Melissa, I discovered your channel two days ago and I love your style, your personality and what you did past year is amazing. I really love your Christmas sweater, your Elizabeth sweater (it is so sad that you can't wear it 😢) and your Biella sweater. What you knit for your daughter is soooo cute. I enjoyed this video very much, thank you for sharing it 🎉
The Marseille sweater looks exactly like a free Lana Grossa pattern. About your Dare to Mohair top, I actually like the oversized fit on you but I think it would've looked more flattering if the sleeves had been narrower. I think (visually) that's what's throwing you off - otherwise, the color is nice on you (not at all screaming attention!).
I think it's the color of the dare to mohair top -- especially seeing it after the green tank tops, I think it wears you a little, if that makes sense. You look amazing in those greens, though!
Ah, finally someone who had the same issue I had with the oslo hat! I made three versions of this and everyt time is ended up way too big, despite using the recommended yarn. Ended up making the baby size for myself and changing the number of stitches to make one for my son :)
Great video - thank you Melissa. In awe of your cost keeping - inspires me to do same! I used your yarn for my Levitate Wrap after watching your podcast and I'm very pleased with the result. 😊
I listened all the way through while knitting 3 inch ribbing! First you are a beautiful knitter! I love the color of the mohair sweater on you but I get your concerns. I love your Darcy knitting! I will be a grandmother soon and I am enjoying knitting the smaller more fun objects, great complement for knitting for ourselves! Happy 2024!
I loved watching this video and appreciate all the time and effort you put into producing it! You are a beautiful knitter who knits gorgeous projects. I particularly appreciate the time you took to let viewers know how much each project cost. Several of your finished projects are also in my cue to knit-the Elizabeth Blouse and the Miles Shirt jacket, to name a couple-so I was interested in your thoughts about them. I can't wait to see more of your videos! Many thanks!
enjoyed the different content too this video, nice to look at what you have made ( all lovely) and I was shocked at how much the wool cost, but I do have too buy yarn when its on sale and stash it, and i think it needs to be taken into account, for me anyway. I guess people spend what they can afford on yarn. Thank you for the great content.
Very enjoyable video, I am currently knitting the miles shirt jacket and will look for your video on the jacket to see what your thoughts were. Thank you and happy new year, happy I found another enjoyable knitting podcast to watch this year!
I don't knit, but I thought your video looked interesting. You look beautiful in all your creations. I think the Cognac sweater is really complimentary to your coloring. It reminds me of Poppies. Your cabled sweater should be worn fall and winter. Look up Fisherman Knit sweaters if you're not sure how to style it. I remember seeing photos of people wearing a cabled sweater with shorts, and hiking boots with thick knitted socks. I always liked that look. As for the cost of your projects, everyone has different priorities as to where their money is spent. I live in the sticks on wooded property. I crochet using budget friendly yarn, because my clothing articles are going to take a beating. They will be machine washed and dried frequently. There's nowhere to wear luxury yarn out here. The cows won't be impressed. If I lived in the city, I would probably dress differently.
You have the perfect body to show some skin. lol. When I am thinking of the cost of a project I try to balance how much hours of knitting enjoyment I get from it. Comparing it to $20 to watch a movie and knitting almost always is more cost effective. New subscriber from Calgary and really enjoyed your podcast.
Love your projects! Thank you for sharing 😊 if you always wear a tank under your sweaters, you might want to check out the Uniqlo tank tops with the built in bras. I don’t usually love tops with the built in bras but these are really comfy, and you only wear one thing under your sweater instead of a bra and a tank.
First time watching. Your knits are amazing! Your “Christmas” sweater is so stunning. I would wear it all the time. Also, Darci (sorry if I spelled her name wrong) is such a striking name. Again, wow❗ to your knits. The blue hat is a fabulous color on you (my two cents is to try and frog it). Happy knitting 💚🧶💚
So many beautiful projects! I love your Elisabeth blouse. I like it much better than the original sample from Petiteknit. Too bad it's so uncomfortable. Maybe you can find the perfect v-neck undershirt that is almost invisible? Although I personally don't mind seeing a shirt underneath. Your mohair top looks great! Maybe the colour is not your absolute best but I think it suits you very well. I like the fit too. I just made a see through mohair sweater and like the look of a visible tank top instead of a nude (maybe dark brown for yours). Or even a long sleeve. Before attempting to frog suri (not fun!!) I would try out elastics in your beautiful blue hat first. The combined cost of your projects is a bit shocking. I have on purpose put my head in the sand about yarn costs. I don't even want to know how much my projects cost... 😬
Thanks Ursula! I don't mind a shirt showing with the Elisabeth blouse; sometimes I wear a turtleneck underneath. It is too bad it's uncomfortable, but I like it enough to keep it and make it work. However, I won't be using the yarn again and will most likely be de-stashing. Thanks for the ideas for the mohair top!
Great recap of your year in knitting. Congratulate yourself on actually using the $1500 of yarn. Wonderful podcast. Less Petite Knits would really mix it up. I only say that cause who isn't knitting PK and DRK? To me the point of knitting original items is to be different and yet we all flock to the same designers.
Thank you! I'm looking forward to drafting my own patterns and less PetiteKnit. Nothing wrong with the patterns, but it's time I switch gears and move on to a new phase.
Hello from Ontario!! This is my first time watching (RUclips suggestion) and I'm glad I did :) It was awesome to see your knits, especially from Canadian designers and with Canadian yarn. If you have the chance (maybe you've already tried it...) try yarn from Topsy Farm. They are located on Amherst Island near Kingston, ON. They have single ply fingering weight and worsted weight yarns that I've used for a couple of accessories. The project I used the fingering weight for, I frogged but that was due to my pattern choice. I've knit a couple things with their worsted weight and while it is lanolin-y, it washes and blocks beautifully to create a rustic but soft farm yarn. It, like Briggs and Little yarn is very affordable. I have yet to complete a sweater in it so I can't attest to the itch factor against the body but it's worth a try!
Hi Mel l just wanted to let you know that I have liked your video and l also subscribed to your channel so don’t worry about it because it was great to watch you and I loved your choices of garments, EMILY X. From the UK
1500 cad is about 1100 us. For all those projects that’s not that bad. But you’re right, not everyone can afford to spend that much on yarn. It’s so personal. About your copper T, I see that over a bell sleeves dress, where the sleeves either ballon out only below the elbow or a bell. Not sure if it’s your style to wear that, but I think it would be cute. Beautiful work all the way around.
You look amazing in all of your knits. Your dress is beautiful. You would look great in bright colours, just sayin'. I saved most of the knits I did for my kids. Or take a really nice photo and print it out with her wearing it. Ciao from Toronto.
Just by looking at you I knew your knits would be cool and modern 😀✨ Yasssss I love them all! P. S: I'm in 🇨🇦 too, I order from the Wool Warehouse UK online and they have Cascades yarn. However it might take 1 week + to arrive!
I wouldn't consider myself to be fast, but I've had that comment a number of times so I guess I am? haha. I knit almost everyday so I'm very consistent. Thanks so much for watching.
Thank you! For elastic thread there are a few options depending on your use. There is knitting elastic which is transparent. Look for 100% lycra, brand examples: Unique and Prym. You can even hold this with your yarn and knit with it. Alternatively, you can use shirring elastic thread and this will be found at any fabric/machine sewing shops. The downside is that this elastic is not transparent. I used this type of elastic thread in my Audrey dress. I just found this video: ruclips.net/video/uJ8UpLdJNM0/видео.htmlsi=uJFOnWS9x65F-R3x Happy knitting!
at 19:38 you are NOT weird and it's NOT just you. It's been dawning on me that there are people out there (mainly North America I think) who wear their sweaters next to skin. To me that would be like wearing a raincoat next to skin. Sweaters are an outer layer only. It just seems more comfortable and practical. If you get hot you can take it off. By having a layer in between, when you sweat it's caught by the underlayer (tshirt, button up etc) which can be washed easier than a heavy woollen sweater. If the sweater is prickly, you don't feel it if you are wearing a collared shirt. Is this just a New Zealand thing???
Thank you! I totally agree with everything you said. My husband is the same too - there must always be a layer underneath a sweater! Not sure if it's just a New Zealand thing haha.
@@stringthingsbymel It's the same here in the UK too - I wouln't dream of wearing wool next to the skin. I usually wear a long sleeved base layer underneath and even then find the tickle factor increases if `I overheat which is completely normal so it's good to have the option of taking them off without exposing myself! I don't think you are over sensitive at all. Alpaca is gram for gram warmer than wool as it is a hollow fibre which traps more warm air next to the body. Your knits suit you very well - would be lovely if you could find a way to wear them comfortably.
Thanks for sharing with the costs and all. Specialy love your summer knits and your dress. For me knitting is my hobby but allso to have beter quality and clothes i realy love(for me its more afordeble than ready-to-wear good quality in the style and fit i like). So if i knit a sweater for under 100 euro and can wear it for over 10 years..so i have fun first knitting it and than be happelly wearing it..its money well spand and sometimes you can than save up for some extra luxery yarn you want😊. So yes its not a cheap hobby but i think it can be afordeble one. ❤
Thanks for watching! Yes, I agree knitting can be an affordable hobby especially if looking at long term use of the garments. I don't buy any ready-to-wear sweaters anymore (for myself) because hand knit quality is far better.
Mel, I know the feeling about the madara cardigan. I also self drafted mine and I have some looseness along the raglan. I’m going to succumb to my OCD and re-do mine 😱
I totally understand and support this. The thought has crossed my mind too. It's a special yarn and it's so worth it to have a cardigan you absolutely love. Maybe I'll re-do mine too in the summer or next year. ❤
I love this video!! Also, I just found out that Sandnes Garn Sunday is actually machine washable. There seems to be some debate about whether or not it’s superwash but it does say machine washable on the revelry description of the yarn, so you may be ok to wash your daughters tee. :)
Literally said “what the heck, this is NOT super soft” when I was in my LYS last week. 😂 It was the first time I touched Holst Super Soft. But I always forget that things can soften after blocking. But it’s a hard comparison when other soft and squishable options are in front of you 😅
Haha you're not alone with that reaction! I thought the same before. I'm looking forward to using it more and seeing just how soft it can get with more wears.
For the Dare to Mohair top, I think the colour is nice. To me, the problem is the sleeves, they kind of bag out. Could you shorten them to make more of a cap sleeve?
So many lovely makes and just thank you for all you share… ❤❤❤ and just being yourself…. Oh and I think you like semi-fitted … maybe that’s the word you are looking for?
Thanks for this great video! You might add a small embroidery to the Hannah Cardigan and I’m sure Darcie will wear it. Have you seen the new, lovely, embroidery book - Embroidery for Knits?
Embroidery is such a sweet idea. It reminds me of how my mother embroidered my sweaters (store-bought) - why didn't I think of doing this?! I have seen the book, such lovely work. Hoping to add it to my library one day. Thank you!
Such a great video. I loved watching everything and your insight is greatly appreciated. I am also going to be adding more short rows to my knits. I'm trying to work through stash. I bought too much over the years and didn't keep up. Do you typically make one piece at a time? Thanks and all the best! Kimberly
Thanks so much for watching! I try to work on one project at a time. I was much better at that early 2023, but by late 2023, I cast on a lot of new projects in one month.🙈
I love everything you knitted❤ just one little sidenote...can you next time set your camera in a way that the clothes are shown full lenght? Unfortunetly we just get to see only half of the clothes you knitted...
Thanks. Set up for this type of video was a bit tricky. I did step back to try to show the full view, but landscape orientation adds some difficulty. I also had to be close to my laptop and mic (for best audio quality I need to be within a foot of it). I now have a website with photos of my makes. Link is in the video description.
I've been asked this a lot. However I'm terrible at keeping track - it just doesn't cross my mind when I sit down to knit 🙈. Maybe that's a goal I should have this year!
Alpaca is up to five times warmer than wool. It may help to wash your itchy sweater in cold water and vinegar to relax the fibers. There are other suggestions on the web to soften wool fibers. Your sweater is beautiful and it would be a shame to not enjoy wearing it.
Don’t worry about the yearly cost of yarn- consider the countless hours of enjoyment that you get from creating such beautiful works!
Absolutely agree with this. I always tell my husband that we get clothes and I get hours of entertainment.
The cost looks reasonable when compared to the yarns used by a lot of RUclips knitters. Compare that to what you'd spend on acrylic in a retail shop, and you're ahead of the game. Aside from being a creative hobby, you've got lots of wonderful garments to wear and a growing family to knit for. Frog the blue hat 🐸 Happy knitting from Hamilton, ON.
definetly keep those handknits! I wash them and put them in pillow cases in storage. they can be saved for keepsakes or for grand kids, or if I have that one last baby!
I really enjoy all the details, dollars and all, that you share about your knits. Must have been exhausting to film, but truly great content. The transparency of cost is really refreshing.
Also, Tiberius is gorgeous.
Thanks so much for watching! It was exhausting, but everyone's kind comments do really help and make me feel good I did it.
And yes, he's a handsome cat! 😻
The rust/orange mohair top is both a beautiful color for you and the shape gives you variety. Wear it with your fav beige pants to see the beauty of the color. Collect tank top type garments to wear under knitwear to protect it from skin oils. Beautiful fit on the dress.
I have saved everything that I knit for my children and have fantasies about them having children that wear them one day. I try to let go of stuff but these remain treasures that give me joy, even as they hibernate. My children, who are teenagers now, seem to feel the same way, which makes me happier still! Enjoyed your video, as always! Thank you for taking the time to create it!
Most likely I'll be keeping everything too - definitely precious treasures even if they don't get worn again. Thanks so much for taking the time to watch!
For the Hannah cardigan- maybe embroidering some flowers on it in bright colors that Darci likes will make her want to wear it more? It is absolutely beautiful
About washing : a sweater mostly doesn’t touch you skin where it sweats, and if it’s not obviously dirty (visually or by smell) there’s no point in washing it.
I really like the fact that you break down precisely the cost of each garment. Thanks :)
That orange sweater looks really good on you. I think it’s just because you’re not used to the bold color but it looks fabulous on you and my feeling about the cost that you spent on all of those garments. Oh my goodness that was not bad at all, and considering of the enjoyment that you had knittingand knitted so many garments that look good on you and for your daughter also, that was not a lot when you think about it. And you have a lot to show for it for your hobby. Amazing.
Hey Melissa! I just wanted you to know that out of all the knitting podcasts that I watch, I find yours the most helpful and informative, especially episodes like these, where you evaluate what you knit and how each project fits, as well as how the pattern worked with the yarn, and how the pattern worked for you, as a knitter. Thank you so much!
I'm so glad to hear it's helpful! That's makes me feel really good 😊. Thanks so much for watching!
Wow! That’s a great job : Everything is beautiful! ?
A random comment …. But from another Mom, I’m constantly needing to push up my sleeves and there is not one long sleeve top I own that will stay up and I got so frustrated with what a mess all my sleeves were, I started keeping elastics in my pockets and/or somewhere easily accessible so I could slip them onto my forearms and hike my sleeves up and out of the way and have them stay put. Has saved many a top by now … 😉 Beautiful knits. Maybe it’s because of movies like “When Harry Met Sally” and “Knives Out”, I think of cable knits as very cozy fall sweaters. That perfect sweater weather when you can wear one outside with maybe a light weight beanie and a scarf and be plenty warm enough 😊. I think considering the average cost out there for a retail purchased wool/cashmere/marino sweater is ~ $200 and that a well made item constructed with high quality material will last possibly for generations … I think it’s a good deal. Also, just think of your daughter inheriting one of your hand made sweaters and then passing that on to her own child some day ….. that’s priceless. Besides, there are always sales, thrifting yarn ….
I kept all the knits I made for my kids. My daughter is now 24 years old and a few weeks ago, we dug through the cedar chest and pulled out all the old knits. She loved seeing them again and remembering them and wants them for her kids whenever that ends up happening! I vote for keeping them
To reduce waste you could possibly extend the length of your daughters skirt gradually with leftover yarn so that it's a unique colour and grows with her!
Nice video. Love your fabulous dress.
Beautiful projects. Love the styles and classic neutral colour choices.
Loved all your knitting projects.
Hello your knits are wonderful!! I’m probably three times your age! And I love it when people say did you knit it, I love my knits looking slightly imperfect, I don’t want it to look mass produced! Also from snowy Canada 🎉
👋🏻 Thank you!
Over 100 years old and knitting - you must share your secret!😉
@@stringthingsbymel lol
In my honest opinion, before frogging it, I would try to put elastic in the sleeves ribbing of the orange sweater. It would perhaps look cuter with puffy short sleeves. Just an idea....
Fantastic roundup Melissa! I love that your goal this year is to slow down and I’m looking forward to seeing your self drafted patterns. (Also loved seeing Tiberius make a cameo!)
Thank you....
Thanks for your thoughts on your projects. I’ve learned a lot. You’ve answered some questions that I had with certain patterns. So…thank you.
You really are a beautiful knitter!
You're welcome and thanks so much for watching 😊❤
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your 2023 knits! I have added a few patterns to my wish list to knit in 2024 from this video.
Loved hearing your thoughts on all of your makes - you can definitely tell by your demeanor which ones you love the most. I really appreciate you including the project costs, and look forward to your thoughts on how you feel about the total for the year. And I would love a me size version of your daughter's pink pullover, it looks so cozy ❤
wow i really enjoyed yr rundown of all your knits - so precise and insightful! i think you chose really great designs and colours that look very flattering on you too and they all look very “finished”. am very inspired by a lot of your makes!!
Thank you so much!
You've made so many lovely items! I particularly liked the Biella Sweater (genius idea to elasticize elbows), the Sake Cardi, and the Velen Tee. (And yes, I do think you could wear the Moby Sweater in the autumn, def not just a Xmas thing.)
When my daughter was little she also was warm all the time. Her classroom was warm so she would wear capri pants and a tank top under her down snowsuit to school everyday. I'm sure other parents thought I was NUTS! But it was what she needed 😊
Haha love it. I wish I was always warm like her, but maybe I'd wear fewer knits? 😂
Thanks for sharing your knitting and thoughts on your projects. I always look forward to your videos.
Love your podcast! Just found it. And oh my goodness. I agree about tanks under a sweater; it’s a must for me too! But that Moby sweater doesn’t say Christmas to me at all! LOL. It says fall/winter/early spring - classic cable knit sweater! ❤ I need one!
Thank you! Happy you found me 😊
I really enjoyed this. The blue hat looks stunning on you, and the yarn and design definitely chic and classy. My grown up daughter is petite too and I do struggle finding patterns she likes which don’t drown her! I always learn loads from you, thank you ❤
Such a lovely discovery! I really enjoy the moment and all these wonderful works! Quiet inspiring except the "budget section"🤣🤣🤣
Thank you so much for sharing ! Natalie (Belgium)
Great wrap up Mel! I so enjoyed seeing all your knits. 🎉
Thanks so much! 😊
This is a great pattern roundup/ yearly review. Thank you. Happy New Year!
Great video. Thanks for sharing. I would love to know more about exactly what elastic thread you use to sew into your sweaters and how you do it. I’m an experienced knitter but I have not had any experience with that. Also love love love your Audrey dress. So good!
I've been getting lots of questions about elastic thread so I'll definitely provide more information on that in a future video.
Thanks so much for watching!
You are gorgeous and I love all your knits ❤ I thought the mohair color really suits your skin tone. I'd also wish the slide with information/photo of the knits stay a bit longer for reading too
Girl, wear the cognac color and take up space!! It looks gorgeous on you!
Just finished your video today, a little bit late. But great. Thank you very much for all your thoughts and your honesty in sharing the experiences and the cost.
Thanks for watching!
Just found you… live in Richmond BC and am a new knitter so enjoying your posts particularly sizing, yarns used and cost from a local perspective. Your esthetics are lovely and really appreciate what you do.. just want to say thanks….
😊 Aww thank you!
I love sweater #1. It’s beautiful and I love bag.
my jaw DROPPED at the 98 cad hat
I think your orange mohair sweater looks so good on you! But if you don't think so, then make something that brings you joy
Wow! You made some very beautiful pieces! I am a an intermediate beginner, I have not tackled a sweater yet! It's on my list this year! Anyway, I always always wear some thing under my sweaters to protect them from body oils and deodorant. A short sleeve 💯 % silk Tee is my go to... as is a silk blouse... love natural fibers! 😊❤. Really enjoyed hearing about the tweaks and things you would have done differently in these knitting projects… very informative!
Thank you!
Ooh, a silk tee sounds great. Perhaps it's time for me to up my under layers game!
Amazing video Mel! This is one of the few everything I knit this year videos that I watched in entirety!
Wow, thanks so much! 😊 So happy to hear you enjoyed it.
Mel, I so appreciate you talking about the financial side of knitting! I've just started my own knitting podcast and it's important to me to do the same, so I had to give you a shoutout in my first video for being one of the inspirations. Thank you! 😄
Wow, I feel honoured! Thanks so much.
Good luck with your podcast!
@@stringthingsbymel Thank you so much! 😄
I know lots of other people have commented on it already, but please keep at least some of the handknits you make for your daughter! My daughter's first Easter is coming up, and my mom was telling me how she hand sewed all of my Easter dresses as a child. I would have LOVED for my daughter to be able to wear one of those dresses, but my mom didnt keep a single one, and it breaks my heart that I'm not able to pass something so special on to my baby.
Hello Melissa,
I discovered your channel two days ago and I love your style, your personality and what you did past year is amazing. I really love your Christmas sweater, your Elizabeth sweater (it is so sad that you can't wear it 😢) and your Biella sweater. What you knit for your daughter is soooo cute.
I enjoyed this video very much, thank you for sharing it 🎉
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Tiberius
The Marseille sweater looks exactly like a free Lana Grossa pattern. About your Dare to Mohair top, I actually like the oversized fit on you but I think it would've looked more flattering if the sleeves had been narrower. I think (visually) that's what's throwing you off - otherwise, the color is nice on you (not at all screaming attention!).
I think it's the color of the dare to mohair top -- especially seeing it after the green tank tops, I think it wears you a little, if that makes sense. You look amazing in those greens, though!
Ah, finally someone who had the same issue I had with the oslo hat! I made three versions of this and everyt time is ended up way too big, despite using the recommended yarn. Ended up making the baby size for myself and changing the number of stitches to make one for my son :)
Happy to provide some validation! (And you have provided me the same 😊) Nothing more frustrating than seeing everyone get it "right".
Great recap Mel! Loved reliving your 2023 makes, excited to see what you make this year!
Great video - thank you Melissa. In awe of your cost keeping - inspires me to do same! I used your yarn for my Levitate Wrap after watching your podcast and I'm very pleased with the result. 😊
Thank you! Happy to hear you enjoy your Levitate wrap too!
I listened all the way through while knitting 3 inch ribbing! First you are a beautiful knitter! I love the color of the mohair sweater on you but I get your concerns. I love your Darcy knitting! I will be a grandmother soon and I am enjoying knitting the smaller more fun objects, great complement for knitting for ourselves! Happy 2024!
Thanks so much for watching! You made great progress and I'm thrilled you chose my video to keep you company. ❤
I loved watching this video and appreciate all the time and effort you put into producing it! You are a beautiful knitter who knits gorgeous projects. I particularly appreciate the time you took to let viewers know how much each project cost. Several of your finished projects are also in my cue to knit-the Elizabeth Blouse and the Miles Shirt jacket, to name a couple-so I was interested in your thoughts about them. I can't wait to see more of your videos! Many thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much for watching.
I really enjoyed your video. It was really interesting to see the costs of projects. All of your makes are beautiful.
Glad you enjoyed it!
enjoyed the different content too this video, nice to look at what you have made ( all lovely) and I was shocked at how much the wool cost, but I do have too buy yarn when its on sale and stash it, and i think it needs to be taken into account, for me anyway. I guess people spend what they can afford on yarn. Thank you for the great content.
LOVE your Sake Cardigan (among many others).
Very enjoyable video, I am currently knitting the miles shirt jacket and will look for your video on the jacket to see what your thoughts were. Thank you and happy new year, happy I found another enjoyable knitting podcast to watch this year!
Hope you're enjoying knitting the Miles Shirt Jacket! Thanks so much for watching.
I don't knit, but I thought your video looked interesting. You look beautiful in all your creations. I think the Cognac sweater is really complimentary to your coloring. It reminds me of Poppies. Your cabled sweater should be worn fall and winter. Look up Fisherman Knit sweaters if you're not sure how to style it. I remember seeing photos of people wearing a cabled sweater with shorts, and hiking boots with thick knitted socks. I always liked that look. As for the cost of your projects, everyone has different priorities as to where their money is spent. I live in the sticks on wooded property. I crochet using budget friendly yarn, because my clothing articles are going to take a beating. They will be machine washed and dried frequently. There's nowhere to wear luxury yarn out here. The cows won't be impressed. If I lived in the city, I would probably dress differently.
You have the perfect body to show some skin. lol. When I am thinking of the cost of a project I try to balance how much hours of knitting enjoyment I get from it. Comparing it to $20 to watch a movie and knitting almost always is more cost effective. New subscriber from Calgary and really enjoyed your podcast.
Love your projects! Thank you for sharing 😊 if you always wear a tank under your sweaters, you might want to check out the Uniqlo tank tops with the built in bras. I don’t usually love tops with the built in bras but these are really comfy, and you only wear one thing under your sweater instead of a bra and a tank.
Thank you for a great review! I think the orange blouse looked lovely on you!
First time watching. Your knits are amazing! Your “Christmas” sweater is so stunning. I would wear it all the time. Also, Darci (sorry if I spelled her name wrong) is such a striking name. Again, wow❗ to your knits. The blue hat is a fabulous color on you (my two cents is to try and frog it). Happy knitting 💚🧶💚
What are you on about? The orange mohair is lovely and you look fabulous in it. And you should just stick out and not worry. ❤
So many beautiful projects! I love your Elisabeth blouse. I like it much better than the original sample from Petiteknit. Too bad it's so uncomfortable. Maybe you can find the perfect v-neck undershirt that is almost invisible? Although I personally don't mind seeing a shirt underneath. Your mohair top looks great! Maybe the colour is not your absolute best but I think it suits you very well. I like the fit too. I just made a see through mohair sweater and like the look of a visible tank top instead of a nude (maybe dark brown for yours). Or even a long sleeve. Before attempting to frog suri (not fun!!) I would try out elastics in your beautiful blue hat first.
The combined cost of your projects is a bit shocking. I have on purpose put my head in the sand about yarn costs. I don't even want to know how much my projects cost... 😬
Thanks Ursula!
I don't mind a shirt showing with the Elisabeth blouse; sometimes I wear a turtleneck underneath. It is too bad it's uncomfortable, but I like it enough to keep it and make it work. However, I won't be using the yarn again and will most likely be de-stashing.
Thanks for the ideas for the mohair top!
Love this roundup!
Great recap of your year in knitting. Congratulate yourself on actually using the $1500 of yarn. Wonderful podcast. Less Petite Knits would really mix it up. I only say that cause who isn't knitting PK and DRK? To me the point of knitting original items is to be different and yet we all flock to the same designers.
Thank you!
I'm looking forward to drafting my own patterns and less PetiteKnit. Nothing wrong with the patterns, but it's time I switch gears and move on to a new phase.
Hello from Ontario!! This is my first time watching (RUclips suggestion) and I'm glad I did :) It was awesome to see your knits, especially from Canadian designers and with Canadian yarn. If you have the chance (maybe you've already tried it...) try yarn from Topsy Farm. They are located on Amherst Island near Kingston, ON. They have single ply fingering weight and worsted weight yarns that I've used for a couple of accessories. The project I used the fingering weight for, I frogged but that was due to my pattern choice. I've knit a couple things with their worsted weight and while it is lanolin-y, it washes and blocks beautifully to create a rustic but soft farm yarn. It, like Briggs and Little yarn is very affordable. I have yet to complete a sweater in it so I can't attest to the itch factor against the body but it's worth a try!
Thanks so much for watching! I haven't tried Topsy Farm and will add them to my list to try.
Hi Mel l just wanted to let you know that I have liked your video and l also subscribed to your channel so don’t worry about it because it was great to watch you and I loved your choices of garments,
EMILY X. From the UK
Awesome! Thank you!
The short rows on my Marseilles look exactly like yours. I consider them a design feature 😆
Sometimes I think of them as "proof it's handmade" to make it more positive 😆
1500 cad is about 1100 us. For all those projects that’s not that bad. But you’re right, not everyone can afford to spend that much on yarn. It’s so personal. About your copper T, I see that over a bell sleeves dress, where the sleeves either ballon out only below the elbow or a bell. Not sure if it’s your style to wear that, but I think it would be cute. Beautiful work all the way around.
You look amazing in all of your knits. Your dress is beautiful. You would look great in bright colours, just sayin'. I saved most of the knits I did for my kids. Or take a really nice photo and print it out with her wearing it. Ciao from Toronto.
Just by looking at you I knew your knits would be cool and modern 😀✨
Yasssss
I love them all!
P. S: I'm in 🇨🇦 too, I order from the Wool Warehouse UK online and they have Cascades yarn. However it might take 1 week + to arrive!
Thank you!
Maybe Wool & Company for your Cascade 220?
I wish I could knit fast😅 Beautiful projects by the way, thanks for sharing.
I wouldn't consider myself to be fast, but I've had that comment a number of times so I guess I am? haha. I knit almost everyday so I'm very consistent. Thanks so much for watching.
Get Patty Lyons book Tips and Tricks. You’ll get better about gauge and resolving GSR when resuming in the round
Yes! I recently purchased this and am excited about what I've read so far. Thanks!
Love your videos! Can you recommend an elastic thread for your knits and possibly a tutorial for how to insert it?
Thank you!
For elastic thread there are a few options depending on your use. There is knitting elastic which is transparent. Look for 100% lycra, brand examples: Unique and Prym. You can even hold this with your yarn and knit with it.
Alternatively, you can use shirring elastic thread and this will be found at any fabric/machine sewing shops. The downside is that this elastic is not transparent. I used this type of elastic thread in my Audrey dress.
I just found this video:
ruclips.net/video/uJ8UpLdJNM0/видео.htmlsi=uJFOnWS9x65F-R3x
Happy knitting!
Cheeper and more enjoyable then a therapist.
at 19:38 you are NOT weird and it's NOT just you. It's been dawning on me that there are people out there (mainly North America I think) who wear their sweaters next to skin. To me that would be like wearing a raincoat next to skin. Sweaters are an outer layer only. It just seems more comfortable and practical. If you get hot you can take it off. By having a layer in between, when you sweat it's caught by the underlayer (tshirt, button up etc) which can be washed easier than a heavy woollen sweater. If the sweater is prickly, you don't feel it if you are wearing a collared shirt. Is this just a New Zealand thing???
Thank you! I totally agree with everything you said. My husband is the same too - there must always be a layer underneath a sweater!
Not sure if it's just a New Zealand thing haha.
@@stringthingsbymel It's the same here in the UK too - I wouln't dream of wearing wool next to the skin. I usually wear a long sleeved base layer underneath and even then find the tickle factor increases if `I overheat which is completely normal so it's good to have the option of taking them off without exposing myself! I don't think you are over sensitive at all. Alpaca is gram for gram warmer than wool as it is a hollow fibre which traps more warm air next to the body. Your knits suit you very well - would be lovely if you could find a way to wear them comfortably.
Thanks for sharing with the costs and all. Specialy love your summer knits and your dress. For me knitting is my hobby but allso to have beter quality and clothes i realy love(for me its more afordeble than ready-to-wear good quality in the style and fit i like). So if i knit a sweater for under 100 euro and can wear it for over 10 years..so i have fun first knitting it and than be happelly wearing it..its money well spand and sometimes you can than save up for some extra luxery yarn you want😊. So yes its not a cheap hobby but i think it can be afordeble one. ❤
Thanks for watching!
Yes, I agree knitting can be an affordable hobby especially if looking at long term use of the garments.
I don't buy any ready-to-wear sweaters anymore (for myself) because hand knit quality is far better.
Mel, I know the feeling about the madara cardigan. I also self drafted mine and I have some looseness along the raglan. I’m going to succumb to my OCD and re-do mine 😱
I totally understand and support this. The thought has crossed my mind too. It's a special yarn and it's so worth it to have a cardigan you absolutely love. Maybe I'll re-do mine too in the summer or next year. ❤
I love this video!! Also, I just found out that Sandnes Garn Sunday is actually machine washable. There seems to be some debate about whether or not it’s superwash but it does say machine washable on the revelry description of the yarn, so you may be ok to wash your daughters tee. :)
Thanks!
Very interesting - I have an swatch of Sunday I'll test in the washing machine.
Literally said “what the heck, this is NOT super soft” when I was in my LYS last week. 😂 It was the first time I touched Holst Super Soft. But I always forget that things can soften after blocking. But it’s a hard comparison when other soft and squishable options are in front of you 😅
Haha you're not alone with that reaction! I thought the same before. I'm looking forward to using it more and seeing just how soft it can get with more wears.
For the Dare to Mohair top, I think the colour is nice. To me, the problem is the sleeves, they kind of bag out. Could you shorten them to make more of a cap sleeve?
So many lovely makes and just thank you for all you share… ❤❤❤ and just being yourself…. Oh and I think you like semi-fitted … maybe that’s the word you are looking for?
Oh thank you! And yes, I think semi-fitted is what I was trying to say. I don't why that didn't come to mind before 😂.
Would you try (over)dyeing your dress black? It’s lovely as are all your knits
I hadn't thought of that, and it's a great idea. I don't think I'd do it out of fear of doing it incorrectly and compromising the silk 😬
Love crafts /Webs sells Cascade, and ships to Canada. Not sure if the price is competitive for you, but might be worth checking out
Hello ! From Victoria BC
Hello! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this great video! You might add a small embroidery to the Hannah Cardigan and I’m sure Darcie will wear it. Have you seen the new, lovely, embroidery book - Embroidery for Knits?
Embroidery is such a sweet idea. It reminds me of how my mother embroidered my sweaters (store-bought) - why didn't I think of doing this?! I have seen the book, such lovely work. Hoping to add it to my library one day.
Thank you!
I want to be you, I would love to be able to knit as you do. Well done. You’re very clever girl
Oh thank you! 😊
Such a great video. I loved watching everything and your insight is greatly appreciated. I am also going to be adding more short rows to my knits. I'm trying to work through stash. I bought too much over the years and didn't keep up. Do you typically make one piece at a time? Thanks and all the best! Kimberly
Thanks so much for watching!
I try to work on one project at a time. I was much better at that early 2023, but by late 2023, I cast on a lot of new projects in one month.🙈
it's hard not to. So much fun to cast on!@@stringthingsbymel
you have explored shapes and fit now research textures and color variations. You can use two neutrals and create pattern.
I love everything you knitted❤ just one little sidenote...can you next time set your camera in a way that the clothes are shown full lenght? Unfortunetly we just get to see only half of the clothes you knitted...
Thanks. Set up for this type of video was a bit tricky. I did step back to try to show the full view, but landscape orientation adds some difficulty. I also had to be close to my laptop and mic (for best audio quality I need to be within a foot of it). I now have a website with photos of my makes. Link is in the video description.
I think another fun stat to know is how many hours it takes to make each project then we can work in a potential labor cost
I've been asked this a lot. However I'm terrible at keeping track - it just doesn't cross my mind when I sit down to knit 🙈. Maybe that's a goal I should have this year!
i would just put some elastic into the blue suri hat :) its a good color on u
Alpaca is up to five times warmer than wool. It may help to wash your itchy sweater in cold water and vinegar to relax the fibers. There are other suggestions on the web to soften wool fibers. Your sweater is beautiful and it would be a shame to not enjoy wearing it.
Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely try the vinegar method. I really do like the look of it and will do my due diligence to make it work for me!
❤
1:17:37 I like to felt my hats in the dryer if they are a little to big.
Could you add elastic to the brim of that blue Oslo hat? Then it might not slip down so much
For your blue Oslo hat, would some elastic work in there to tighten? Or maybe a slight felting would improve the fit.
I hadn't thought of elastic! I'll definitely try that. Thanks!