YarnCraft

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On this episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee tackle a topic that has come up several times in listener questions. We explore how Lion Brand develops yarns and Liz, as Director of Yarn Development, walks us through the process. From fiber content to what a yarn is used for, we consider many different factors when creating a new product line. Speaking of which, look out for new products from Lion Brand coming to you this fall!

In the discussion, Zontee mentions the Homespun mill in New Hampshire. Want to learn about it? Check out our book, The Story of Homespun; click here to get more info on it.

Liz wants to thank Nancy C. from San Antonio for the scrubby made with tulle and cotton!

We’re also joined by designer Candace Eisner Strick, whose new book is Strick-ly Socks and features a new method of sock construction; learn more about Candace on her blog.

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we talk about 10 kinds of Mother’s Day gifts, 5 project ideas and 5 activities including: craft retreats, craft cruises, fiber festivals, and local knit and crochet workshops. Pattern types discussed include:

• Shawls
• Purses, Bags, and Totes
• Socks: Basic Knit Socks, Cozy Crochet Socks, Knit Sweet Home Socks
• Jewelry frames and Crochet Nesting Bowls
• Holiday Amigurumi

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Today on a bonus-length YarnCraft, we talk about adjusting your project. Whether you’re making a larger or smaller scarf or afghan, lengthening your sleeves, or making a bigger hat, we have tips on what you need to consider and how you can make those changes.

Articles/blog posts mentioned include:

• Making Sizing Changes to Scarves and Throws
• Want a Bigger Garment? Use a Thicker Yarn!
• Perfect Sweaters for Your Body

Zontee also interviews Lisa Shroyer, editor of Knitscene Magazine and author of the new book, Knitting Plus. Lisa shares 5 tips on making flattering plus-size sweaters.

Liz & Zontee also answer a listener question on making great buttonholes and button bands.

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we share an interview with designer and author Nicky Epstein, recorded in front of a live audience at Vogue Knitting Live back in January. She shares some of the great ideas for using knit/crochet blocks from her latest book Knitting Block by Block.

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