YarnCraft

On this bonus-length episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee tackle the vernacular/slang/lingo of yarncrafters. We share tips for beginners learning to read patterns, explain how to find specific pattern abbreviations (and what they mean) on LionBrand.com and other resources, and demystify the world of online terminology. Find out what’s a WIP, why British and American knitters/crocheters sometimes have trouble understanding each other, and more. Zontee also mentions the book, KnitSpeak by Andrea Price, as a resource.

We also share a listener question on amigurumi–specifically joined rounds versus continuous spirals. Thanks to Lydia for submitting it!

Then Zontee interviews Vicki Stieffel (knittingnews on Twitter), co-author of the new book, Ten Secrets of the Laid Back Knitters. Vicki shares with us her tips for all yarncrafters on approaching your handiwork with a holistic approach.

Then on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, Liz & Zontee talk about patterns for 5 non-knit, no-crochet yarncrafts. Expand your yarn skills OR share them with family, friends, and even kids. Patterns discussed include:

• Woven Place Mats
• Woven Pixelated Scarf
• Woven “The Boyfriend Scarf”
• Woven His & Hers Scarves with One Warp
• Macramé-Inspired Plant Hangers
• Hooked Rug Samples
• Kids’ Yarncrafted Jewelry (6)
• Pom-Pom Rug (2)
• Pom-Pom Pillow

Weaving looms discussed include the Cricket Loom, the Flip Loom, and the Knitters Loom & Carry Bag.

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Ever want to quickly find older episodes of YarnCraft? Want to go back and see what previous topics we’ve covered? Looking for an easy way to find episode guides? Now you can do all of that and more, with our new index page!

Click here to visit it or click on “index” at the top of the YarnCraft blog.

And don’t forget to come back next Tuesday for a new episode!

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On this bonus-length episode of YarnCraft, Liz & Zontee share hints and tricks to stay motivated with projects. Whether you just need an extra boost to get that WIP (work in progress) finished or the warm weather makes you less likely to tackle an afghan, we have tips for you.

The ladies of YarnCraft also answer customer questions and share advice, including tips for crocheters learning to knit and finding the right pattern online. Thanks to Jamie & Lily, Karen H., Dee Bee, Flora, and Patricia for contributing questions and comments.

Patterns discussed include:

• Knit Tiger Lily Tank
• Crochet Serene Shell
• Crochet Newsboy Cap
• Crochet Beach Bag
• Knit All-About-Town Tote

Then, we’re joined by esteemed teacher and designer Sally Melville, author of books including Mother/Daughter Knits and–her newest book–Warm Knits Cool Gifts, who shares advice on picking projects for others and for yourself. Check out her website at SallyMelvilleKnits.com.

Finally, on Stash This: Ideas for Your Crafting Life, we talk about the 5 essential skills that will help you to achieve yarncrafting mastery. They include seaming, reading your work, maintaining your stitch count, understanding stitch anatomy (stitch mount, front/back loop, front/back post), and the differences between working flat and in the round.

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