In addition to what u/lmg00d said, they've been very anti-Semitic in the past. Since telling a man looking for bar mitzvah cards "we don't serve your kind here," they've started stocking for Jewish holidays, but it was only after the president claimed the employee was in the right, then quickly backpedaled after massive outcry.

I feel like there's no point in making something if it doesn't get worn. If I have an item that's more delicate (like a single ply sweater), then I'll take into consideration what I'm planning to do that day. Ditto if I'm doing something where I'm likely to spill staining things on clothing.

If you're nervous - maybe try wearing them around the house first? Hand knit socks are wonderful on cold winter days and often I'll wear shawls wrapped around myself like a blanket when it's cold inside.

As far as keeping them in the best condition, I try and be gentle when washing - avoid machine drying when possible, don't stretch them out of shape when they're wet, etc. A good sweater depiller (I like the Gleener) can also help keep things looking nice.

Also, honestly I think visible mending is pretty darn (pun intended...) cool, so I'm not afraid of wearing holes in things.

Finished this baby blanket in the nick of time (I'm 39 weeks pregnant today!) The picture shows right before I steam blocked it, which it did BEAUTIFULLY, but I just can't seem to get a good after picture.

Anyway the pattern is Levi's Baby Blanket which is a GORGEOUS pattern. Though really complex, I joke that my poor second child will never get something this complicated. The benefit of this was that it hid all my mistakes (of which there are plenty!)

The yarn is this from amazon. Though the perfect colour, and wonderfully soft, I'm NEVER using anything like it again. It was so slippery, that any stitch slipping off a needle would immediately unravel several rows. This also meant I was REALLY reluctant to fix any mistakes, since that would just cause a giant mess.

Hope you enjoy! It took a ton of work but I'm really proud of the finished product, and the fact I actually finished it in time!

I did thanks! I used this pattern and these lights from Amazon. It was pretty easy and only took me a couple hours!

I found a bunch of them on Amazon and ebags by searching for bags with shoe compartments. Here's one: BAOSHA HB-28 Ladies Women Canvas Travel Weekender Bag Overnight Carry-on Duffel Tote Bag (Blue Strips with Shoe Compartment) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C6MBK89/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IRyXDbR92RDMT

Hi, I’m not writing to be snarky but many of the dyestuffs you are using are quite fugitive, even with proper mordants. Pokeberry is a stain and will fade quite quickly. Turmeric also fades, sumac, onion skins,, etc.

Stick to indigo, madder, cochineal, logwood, sandalwood, black walnut...and yep the lichens are really interesting. A very excellent book is :

https://www.amazon.com/Art-Craft-Natural-Dyeing-Traditional/dp/0870496700. Jim is dead now but this book is a dyeing bible.

If you aren’t going to sell these it’s great fun trying lots of different plant materials, but if they are for sale it’s best to stick to the tried and true dyes. Ive been a natural dyer for forty years and sold professionally for a lot of those years, just trying to save you some grief��

Once Upon a Knit: 28 Grimm and Glamorous Fairy-Tale Projects https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ERTEPCO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6M2aCbJ908DGV this is the book. I modified the pattern to use stripes along the basket Weave border. So many ends to tuck!! I also added a single crochet border and crocheted over the ends rather than weave the little bastards in!

It’s called a knitting thimble! It keeps your strands straight and makes it easier to pick up each color. I got mine “free” (plus shipping) on Wish, looks like Amazon has them, too

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00114OO10/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_1tQxDbJW68T1H

> using two shovels to knit a hammock

Apparently that pattern is in this book.

I have to say though... some of the "also bought" and "bought after viewing" items are kinda special.

I started with my niece probably a little older than 3 but not much older. There are a few things that I found helpful:

• Knitting together -- She would sit in my lap with my project in front of us and we would work together. We started with her doing the wraps and me doing the needles. This way, she could practice the movements and participate but also run off to play when she was done. I liked this because it allowed her to see from the knitter's perspective, as opposed to trying to switch what she's watching from the other side.

• Knitting together, phase 2 -- still in my lap, but now she's working the needles and I'm just watching/providing support from a la a ridealong.

• Annie and the Swiss Cheese Scarf -- this one is cute. It has a rhyme to go with the stitches and tells a cute story about a holey scarf (which will probably resemble whatever the small child's first project is).

• Yarn -- worsted or thicker is a nice weight. It's all going to be clumsy (since new movements, especially at an age where fine motor skills are still development) and the larger yarn means that the child can actually see the project grow, even if they only do a row or two at a time. I recommend something not splitty, maybe a felted single or the fleece yarn. This is also nice because it allows them to knit and rip back and re-knit without it getting ratty.

For someone who's interested in knitting but hasnt done it yet: This set of circular needles and straight needles. I got these as a complete beginner. They're not the greatest, but they're really not that bad. They're super grippy so someone who's not used to knitting wont have to struggle with their yarn slipping off their needle.

Stitch markers are always a good idea too. Something like these or some cuter ones from Etsy are valuable. I always lose my stitch markers so I'm always in need of more. Needle stoppers/point protectors are always good too, since they are also easily lost.

If you're okay with spending a lot of money: every knitter that I've ever met has praised chiagoo's interchangeable needle set. They come in 4" and 5". I've heard more people prefer the 4" than the 5" but since I have neither, I cant weigh in on that. They are very spendy but I've only heard good things about them.

If you're okay with spending money but not THAT much money: Clover interchangeable needles are also very nice. That's what I personally use. They're a bit too grippy for me, but I love how light weight they are and I love the feel of the wood in my fingertips.

The shoes are from Amazon! I actually wore a different pair of shoes for the ceremony, but they were killing my feet so I switched to flats for the reception.

> Also I am missing 2 mm dpns. Several sets.

I had a nice full set of DPNs and I kept losing one of various sets. I couldn't figure out why because I rarely is the DPNs.

I found out where they went. My husband was using them to clean crap from his car engine and then threw them away as they were usually bent and filthy.

I didn't feel bad about spending way too much $$ on my next LYS visit.

It’s in a book called 60 quick baby blankets. Don’t be fooled. This beast takes forever!

60 Quick Baby Blankets: Cute & Cuddly Knits in 220 Superwash® and 128 Superwash® from Cascade Yarns (60 Quick Knits Collection) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1936096463/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5MmeDbR3J269R

Pencil for scale.

Pattern taken from the book "Knit Your Own Cat" (link: https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Your-Own-Easy-Follow/dp/1579128939)

I took the basic pattern for a sitting cat and changed the colors to match my own cat. I used Lion brand worsted weight yarn (I don't have the skeins with me, I just finished the stuffing and details this morning on vacation).

This was my 8th completed cat. The hardest part for this one was changing the colors from the pattern to match my cat. I also hate the stuffing and sewing part. She looks a little derpy because the ears are floppy and her eyes are not centered. I might stiffen the ears with glue or something.

Yes, it's not you and it's not the quality of your knitting (it's gorgeous!), it's just not the right design for your body type. You have a cute hourglass figure and that top not just hides that great waistline you have, it bulges out and makes you look like you have a muffin top - which you do not. Also, it looks like you may have a short torso, which also means you'll want patterns that are either shorter to look like they fit correctly or much longer so they don't end in the wrong spot.

My $.02 - waist shaping and shorter length would make a huge difference here. If this was 1-2" shorter and about 1/3 of the way from the bottom was narrower by a couple of inches so it showed your curves, this top would be very flattering on you. Your knitting is nice, it's the fit of the top, not you. :-)

Amy Herzog's Knit to Flatter has some really good tips on how to figure out what your body type is and how to find designs that flatter that type. It has a few patterns to demonstrate and teach techniques you can use on other patterns as well. https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Flatter-Instructions-Youll-Sweaters/dp/1617690171/ref=sr\_1\_1?dchild=1&keywords=amy+herzog+knit+to+flatter&qid=1623541465&sr=8-1

There are still 12 days left on the Tipsy Sheep Expansion Project Kickstarter! You can check out the Kickstarter page here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1784164914/sheepstarter-expansion-project

Tipsy Sheep Yarn started almost a year ago - right here on knittit! Since then, response to my yarns has been overwhelming and the support of this and a few other subs (2X, TrollX, and yarnporn) have been a huge part of making the business a success. Most of my clients sign up for the 4-month runs of the yarn club, where they receive a new color of yarn each month; I have now sold out 6 months in a row, and that is better than I ever dreamed possible!

It's actually gotten to the point where supply can no longer keep up with demand. I have outgrown my current equipment and need better, stronger, faster (and automatic!) swifts and winders so that I can spend less time on the tedious stuff and more time dyeing yarn. It will also save tons of wear-and-tear on my wrists, one of which is being rebuilt next month with zombie parts! I've got my eye on some pretty pricey equipment and so have started a Kickstarter project to try and get funding.

I'm pretty close to goal, having just passed the $2000 mark this morning! I would greatly appreciate even the smallest contributions (though you can get some cool rewards for pledging larger amounts).

Yarn is such a personal taste thing that I would go for fun stitch markers and knitting kit favorites instead. There are some fun stitch markers on amazon with different themes so if they said they like cats or something, you could get little cat markers like these. You could also get a nice little retractable tape measure, some cute little embroidery scissors, all things that they may already have, but are nice and useful and you really can’t have too much of.

I heard that the Tin Can Knits Simple Collection (not a book, but a collection of free patterns) has a nice progression of techniques to learn, and it's on Ravelry (if you haven't signed up for it you definitely should). Also I feel like since I learned from it, I have to plug the Klutz knitting book, which has some projects.

I inherited a set of these from my grandma and was going to give them away but I put them in a box and promptly forgot about them.

Well it was one day before the start of a vacation and I was in the middle of a big project when the addi bamboo interchangable I was using SNAPPED! I went into my knitting supplies hoping to find another replacement and of course, I didn't have one that would work with such a large piece... but I did uncover grandma's plastic set!

I figured, it would get me through the flight and I would by a replacement on vacation. But I was SHOCKED at how much I liked it! It was SO LIGHT!!! As you noted, the yarn held on the needle and the joins and cable were solid yet flexible. I loved them more than the Knitpicks interchangables I have!

My grandma taught me knitting so it felt like another way she was looking out for me. :)

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Knitting-Needle-Set-Needles/dp/B003TDBBEO

I know a lot of people are getting ready for Christmas by making knit gifts so I have a little gifting PSA:

Amazon has a 25-pack of Euclan 0.17 oz packs for $2.77 right now. I'm going to give a couple with any wool gifts and thought maybe other people would like to know about the deal!

I also got some super cute wrapping paper with knitted items on it at Dollar Tree! It's by Christmas House and it has cute little sweaters, socks, hats, etc. that could be cool to wrap knitting gifts in.

Ooh! Look into vacuum bags! Yarn is very squishy, vacuum bags will vastly increase the carry capacity of your suitcase! If you aren't sure what I'm talking about, here's an Amazon link (non affiliate/referral/whatever, literally just searched vacuum bag) with a good description of them. There are a bunch of different brands.

In a pinch, you can do something similar with a trash bag, but it doesn't work quite as well.

Yes; this yarn is from a dye bath I did around this time last year, along with a couple yards of linen. I made the linen into a dress and it hasn't really faded at all. Like any dye process, as long as you set the color properly its colorfast.

If you're interested, I reccommend the book Wild Color for a pretty thourough breakdown of dying with a bunch of different natural materials, including onion skins.

My only regret on this yarn is that next time I'd leave some skins in the bath, rather than straining, to get some more variation and tonality - this was a last minute decision after dying the linen, so I had already strained the dye bath.

FYI, I've had this one for more than a year, and it's held up like a champ. I got it for $15. It's now $10.

They are called magnetic purse snaps. Here is what I got, though a batch of 50 rather than 100. I used a curved upholstery needle with doubled upholstery thread to sew one half to the floofs. The other half should clip on easily to the hat.

https://www.amazon.com/Magnetic-Closure-Handbag-Clothes-Required/dp/B01M13PERE/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=purse+snaps&qid=1574929704&sr=8-3

Sorry, I've never shared a link on Reddit before.

I’m using a starter kit that I got off of amazon. Bamboo round needles. This might turn into a hat for the new babe. No pattern being followed and just a simple knit stitch the entire way to get the hang of things. I missed a few stitches right off the bat but I’m starting to catch on. I’ll link the starter kit below.

Starter kit

I knit continental and do stranded color only with my left hand. I wrap both yarns like I would a single yarn, just side by side, but I split them with my middle finger before wrapping them over my index finger. Here's a good video. A Norwegian knitting thimble is very useful for me, and they're inexpensive so it's worth getting some.

I have a Stanwood. Considerably more expensive but very heavy duty and well made plus it will do really big skeins. Stanwood

when I started knitting socks, I bought this book. It’s amazing. I still use it. Highly recommended

Lifeline hack: If you have interchangeable needles, like Boye or Knitter's Pride where there is a little hole where the tightener key goes you can tie the thread on that hole, work the row as normal, and it threads your lifeline for you so you don't have to bother with stopping to stitch it in.

If that explanation made any sense...

That's totally knitted guys... Right??? Like this "braided" rug from Walmart...

It's hard to see, but it's stockinette stitch, not braided!!! I rage every time I pass the endcap with them hanging up. THAT IS KNITTING YOU JERKS.

Hello fellow lefty!

So, in knitting more than in crochet, many lefties seem to end up learning to do things the right handed way. Combined with the fact that Continental knitting is sometimes called "left-handed knitting" whether or not a right-handed person is doing it, it can be hard to find lefty tutorials. But you don't have to force yourself to learn yet another thing the right handed way.

I use this tool to mirror YouTube videos when I'm having trouble flipping things in my head. Just straight up paint will mirror your infographics for you. As soon as you flip the thing, it's like the scales fall from your eyes and doors are opened and paths are illuminated and so on.

My take is you can make these colors work if you group them differently. I would play around, but maybe white, green, light blue, dark blue, burgundy, purple would work. Try grouping like colors together. I would mess around with them more, I think they are fine. OR another thing is you can de-emphasize some of the colors by cutting their stripe in half, like maybe make the darker colors and the white more an accent color by doing a thinner stripe. http://www.colourlovers.com/ is a cool site for color inspiration. Sorry for the weird sentences.

Edit: spelling

These are knitted in DK with some felt additions. Here's a link to the book I used, Mini Knitted Farmyard by Sachiyo Ishii -

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1782215387/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_YB42CNMN62924411390R

You could do that, but she died in 1946.

Notable from that Wikipedia article:

>In 1935 Gág published the “proto-feminist” Gone is Gone; or, the Story of a Man Who Wanted to Do Housework.

I had never heard of this other work of hers. But I've found it on Amazon.

A few things bother me.

1. The price. Even if I knit or crocheted a blanket that big I'd never charge that much. A few hundred dollars, yes, to cover labor at $10/hour (minimum depending on difficulty of the blanket).

2. The fact that she didn't even use the same color yarn for the whole thing. Seriously?

3. She calls it "crocheted" instead of knit. Just... can you get your terms right please?

I just don't know what to make of this. Either the woman is crazy or she just doesn't know what she's doing (I'm leaning towards crazy).

I take pride in my word but dear lord, I wouldn't charge THAT much!

PS: For those that didn't see the link that was buried when I found it, it's here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HandGlories?ref=l2-shopheader-name

My grandmother taught me the basics of cast on, cast off, make 1, etc but I only did squares and rectangles and the occasional triangle for 20 years. Then when I was in college I was working at a bookstore and shelving books in the children's section and came across a book on knitting for kids that actually included sweaters and socks which just blew my mind. Opened it up and it had very clear pictures and tips and not just how to do certain things but why. My store would let you check out books as an employee so I went to my manager, asked to borrow it, stopped by a craft store on the way home and picked up some DPNs to make my first ever pair of socks. They were a stretchy rib pattern so you didn't have to turn a heel. I will say for some things, videos are very nice though.

Seconding this. Unless we’re making something for someone else and they’ve picked the yarn for themselves, it’s easier to let us choose our own. You mentioned a yarn ball winder, those are great if you haven’t done it already. Additionally if she doesn’t have a travel kit or something to stash her projects in I would recommend a crafting bag like this. It comes in different sizes and colors. My husband got this for me a few years ago and I love it.

Cheap stitch markers from amazon

Things I like * 140 stitch markers for $7. Perfect for people like me who lose everything and have cats that like to play with them * convenient container that keeps the organized, so I can just throw it in my knitting bag * lots of colors. I use stitch markers to keep track of pattern sections, shaping, etc so I like having bright colors that are easy to tell apart

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0716JT77W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I had a friend who introduced me to the idea back in 2011, but it took me a few years before I actually got around to putting something up. For me, a few things helped:

• Acquiring a knitting machine, as I've learned I'm not super adept with needles. The machine is kind of like a loom which makes it easier to handle for me.
• A town near me appointed a yarnbomber as their Artist in Residence (http://knitsforlife.com/2013/09/11/new-squid-tree-yarnbomb/) - super inspirational!
• And I took a Skillshare class on yarnbombing (http://www.skillshare.com/classes/crafts/Yarnbombing-Creating-Public-Art-with-Yarn/694703707) which helped me work through the steps to make my first project.

I love how happy and surprising and whimsical yarnbombs are. They always make me smile. I wanted to do that for someone else! I feel like yarnbombing adds some magic back into the world.

In Knitting Brioche - The essential guide to the brioche stitch it is said, that there are four ways of making brioche. two methods invole working with yarnovers. the other two with working the stitch below. I prefer the latter method because I find it more managable and less confusing.

You might enjoy this book. Geometric-Knit-Blankets by Margaret Holzmann. There is also a Facebook Group.Geometric Knits

What they said! ^^ I got it for Christmas this last year. I believe I got gifted this one from Amazon. I've used it to untangle my frogging messes, and for winding skeins into pretty little ball blobs.

Could you laminate it? I have a cheap little laminator I got from Amazon for like 20 bucks, and then another 10 bucks or so for the pouches. That might be too much to spend on only preserving one thing, but it sounds like there might be a lot more old patterns in the stash. You could always also just get a binder with some page protectors and slide the papers in there, maybe.

I would love a copy of the pattern when you're done copying it! That top is cute!

I order them from Amazon. They fluff up pretty well with a blow dryer. The only thing I'm not a fan of is the elastic loop to secure it. It's really loose so I use a button to anchor it. Here's the link. 12pcs Faux Raccoon Fur Fluffy Pom Pom... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077ZRRXBH?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I adore my Stanwood https://www.amazon.com/Stanwood-Needlecraft-String-Winder-10-Ounce/dp/B0078T6KQY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1538077707&sr=8-3&keywords=stanwood+yarn+winder I've had it for a while and havent had any problems with it. If you don't already have a swift you'll probably want one.

WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THIS YESTERDAY?!?!?!

In the /r/YarnAddicts sidebar, there's a demographics survey, one of the pages has to do with 'want a group/have a group'.

There's also a link in the /r/YarnAddicts side bar to a "cleaned up" summary of that page. I haven't updated the cleaned up version in a while, I will try to do so next week after the last minute pre-KAL stuff is wrapped up.

I'm open to discussion from people who are informed, but this topic is too important to let people hand wave with the idea that things weren't broken before or that the free market will save them.

Please read this interview with the previous FCC chairman who explains why the internet was broken before 2015 and how it will break even more if the regulations are removed: https://www.npr.org/2017/11/22/566098701/what-the-end-to-net-neutrality-means-for-internet-streaming

I like to use giant safety pins, they're durable and you just clip them to your project so you always have it. I have two of these and they're awesome!

I've used this one in the past.

It looks as if it's just an illustration, which means there wouldn't have been a pattern in the magazine. But there are many, many Fair Isle sweater patterns available, both online and in books and magazines.

I would suggest you make a hat and mittens in a Fair Isle pattern to really get the hang of it, perhaps something like this, and then try charting your own graphs. Alice Starmore has written a book that is half theory, half charts and patterns, highly recommended. It is actually very easy to chart Fair Isle, although it is not simple to get the proportions exactly right, which is why a book would be a big help, and if you use the magazine cover as inspiration, you should be able to come up with your dream sweater.

The various weights of yarn like fingering, Aran, double knitting, and so forth are always ranges of sizes, and not, I think especially useful for most knitters. What you really need to know is the recommended needle size, which most manufacturers helpfully provide: in this case, it's a 3.5mm needle. If you're a loose knitter, use a 3 or 3.25. If you're a tight knitter, use a 4.

An extremely useful guide for most all knitters is Ann Budd's Handy Book of Patterns. You make up a gauge swatch and calculate the number of stitches per inch; figure out what size you want the garment to be; and then follow the chosen pattern, getting appropriate numbers of stitches from a series of inline tables as you go. (Take a look inside the book at that link and you'll see what I'm talking about.) Once you know what you're doing, it's perfectly sensible and intuitive, and will not steer you wrong. It's basically all the patterns for all the garments, ever, and worth every cent.

Chiaogoo is my favorite! They have fixed circulars on Amazon. Here's the link for the 47 inch I believe. https://www.amazon.com/ChiaoGoo-Circular-47-inch-Stainless-Knitting/dp/B00DX874Y6/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1514826959&sr=8-8&keywords=chiaogoo+size+11+circular

I have the KnitPicks Options nickel plated interchangeables and I also have the Lykke driftwood interchangeable set, but I prefer the metal ones since I knit tightly and my stitches slide better on them. The KnitPicks set is a reasonable price and decent quality. I haven't had any problem with them in the year that I've the set.

If you wanna really spoil yourself, I've heard good things about Chiaogoo interchangeables, and they have a complete set for $130 on amazon

If its just socks, you might spend the same money on a much more quality circular, since you'll not use most of that set anyways. I'm a ChiaoGoo fan myself, this one would be a great start for socks. You could definitely check out some other brands too, to see what looks interesting.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DPTRTP9/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3G2RBEZBLAJ53&psc=1

Chopstick holders if they are short enough (https://smile.amazon.com/Leafico-Reusable-Stainless-Steel-Case/dp/B07PB4ZMNC/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=chopstick+case&qid=1600114059&sr=8-7) $7 for metal.

I have the 4” twist tip set and I’ve knitted shirts, shorts, hats, baby stuff, and now I’m working on a Gratitude blanket. I haven’t had any issues with needle size, although now that my blanket has gotten so large I might buy more cables and connectors.

Tbh, I wish I’d purchased them sooner and not wasted so much money on fixed sets.

It is a tuck stitch cowl. Here is a whole book on the subject. https://smile.amazon.com/Dimensional-Tuck-Knitting-Innovative-Technique/dp/1942021674/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_2?crid=1C6RNXOW866Z3&keywords=tuck+stitches+marchant&qid=1552253345&s=gateway&sprefix=tuck+st&sr=8-2-fkmr1

I've used a fair number of them and have settled on Bee Count. Each project can have it's own slot, with several counts. It's free and better than other paid apps I've used.

This book, right here, taught me so much about how to read my knitting and fix mistakes. I like it because it's specifically about solving problems, which means it's more compact than a "learn to knit" book. I have purchased it four times because I kept giving my copies away to my knitting friends. LOL - I don't actually have my own copy right now.

IMO it's well worth the $15 (or $10 for the Kindle version). It might or might not be the knitting resource book that works for you, but there are other books like it out there. Shop around, see what you find.

I also watch YouTube videos and read stuff online - including in this community - but I really like having a book like this as a starting point.

You could try knitting the mitts flat like in this pattern:

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-knit-close-fitting-fingerless-gloves/

It's much easier to learn than knitting them in the round. These are the first pair I knitted and it was pretty easy.

Is it a scarf? Twelve and half feet isn't too long for a scarf. This men's scarf from Vogue Knitting is eight and a half feet long, and the classic Doctor Who scarf is twelve feet long. Just wrap it around your throat twice, let the ends hang free, and be cozy all winter.

It's an online repository of out-of-copyright books. Here's the search for knitting. If you venture in, be warned--they're the originals, scanned or transcribed, and are written for the audience back when the book was first published, not edited for a modern audience. Sometimes it's a bit hard to tell what's meant (like...what size of yarn? and gauge isn't ever mentioned), but they're still very interesting.

Well, I found this:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/55295722/claddagh-cloth-pattern

and this: http://digknittydesigns.blogspot.com/2009/02/claddagh-knit-dishcloth-pattern.html

Good luck with your project, and congrats on your upcoming wedding!

Wow. I feel ridiculously spoiled. I have no idea how my hat beat all of the other, equally gorgeous, hats submitted in February's KAL, but I sure am delighted to be the owner of these stitch markers made by u/bicycle_dreams! They are very lightweight and I love that they are removable! Here is a link to her etsy store just in case you want to see more of her awesome work.

In the survey I posted earlier this week, one of the questions was if people were interested in a yarn swap. Of the 243 respondents, 111 answered "yes" and another 17 answered "definitely maybe." I'm hoping if enough people say yes, then I can go to the Secret Santa admins and leverage their system. I don't know what the minimum interest level is though.

eep!

I opened an Etsy shop today with handmade stitch markers. Here's an imgur album of what I currently offer.

• set of 6 stitch markers with the #10 on them for counting in groups of 10

• set of 6 stitch markers with the #20 on them for counting in groups of 20

• set of 8 plain stitch markers with one marker with a different color scheme to denote the beginning of a round

• set of 4 stitch markers, 2 "RS" and 2 "WS". RS is for the "right-side" of your work, "WS" is for the wrong-side

edit: forgot to mention that they are removable!

:) A yarn cake is what comes off of a mechanical winder...it is flat on the top and bottom, and can be center pull, and it looks a bit like to top tier of a cake. To illustrate: https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=yarn%20cake%20ball%20winder

(Searching for just yarn cake also shows edible cakes made to look like yarn)

This was the first gift that I gave my current bf... Our love is strange, but apparently yours is too... It's called a knitted condom, but could work to warm things: http://www.instructables.com/id/Knit-Condom/

I do the same thing but with Evernote. It has the same capabilities - the editing you talked about, plus it syncs across all your devices - PC, phone, tablet, etc so I keep a running yarn shopping list just in case I get lured to the LYS. It is also free, so if you don't already use Microsoft office, this is a great alternative!

I love this book, I’ve bought several copies for friends learning to knit. It has a very logical progression of skills.

Fearless Knitting Workbook https://www.amazon.com/dp/1596681497/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VYFFHKXFCB78M6QVFSK5

You’ll throw your knitting across the room once or twice… it’s ok.

You Tube is your friend!

Start with cheap yarn, become a yarn snob later after you’ve mastered knit and purl.

ENJOY THE PROCESS! knitting is terrific therapy!
Happy knitting!

Mrs. Stewart's Concentrated Liquid Bluing, Non Toxic Laundry Whitener, 8-ounce Bottle (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009M7ESPA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ER11C4J5H0KCC79NKXGC

You should look into bluing. Over a decade ago, Martha Stewart had a daytime show and she used bluing on white dress shirts that ended up looking fantastic. That said, I never tried it because: I didn’t want that level of perfection to become a normal laundry expectation for my fam; and it looks like it can go wrong and you end up more blue than white. If you try it, practice with t-shirts and then your swatches before going balls to the wall with your veil. Good luck and have fun getting ready for your wedding.

Maybe take off the backs and use some strong glue to attach to buttons already sewn onto a sweater? Or take a DIY button kit and glue the button back to the pin?

And just in case other people out there like me can’t sew, here’s my favorite needle case that isn’t very expensive, is made from a nice, thick canvas, and is incredibly spacious

I have a bead stringing bowl. It's mounted so you can spin it around which causes the beads to line up in one direction. Then you just thread a needle with your yarn/thread and the beads kind of automatically jump onto the needle.

It's really fast once you get a rhythm going.

(If you're curious, this is really similar to the one I have.)

I can't find a Vogue knitting kindle/epub copy, but maybe The Principles of Knitting would be acceptable if you're looking for a general purpose reference? There is an electronic version of that available.

I found this today to send to my mother (Amazon hasn't given me a ship date for it, sadly). She picked up a neat copy of Baa Baa Black Sheep by Iza Trapani for one of my kids, and so now we've made it a bit of a 'game' to find and send each other books (esp. kids books) where yarn/knitting is a central feature, rather than a brief mention like "and Suzy sat and knitted while waiting for Bobby to call" and that's it.

Which made me think. What other books - kid, YA, or adult - are there where knitting is "core", rather than something on a tangent? I know there are some mystery series that have knitting themes, but anything else?

EDIT: AHa, found it. "The Drafter" by Kim Harrison: female protagonist, ability to manipulate time a bit, and knitting is... relevant to plot, I'll leave it at that.

As to your second question - I have a Stanwood Needlecraft winder I am quite happy with. (Amazon link.) I originally bought one from Knit Picks, which I returned because the gears kept catching, and then bought this one from Amazon due to its high number of positive reviews. I've had no issues with it in the just over two years I've had it.

ETA: It does look like it might be slightly cheaper to buy it directly from Stanwood right now, even with shipping vs Prime. (We're talking a matter of a couple bucks, though - when it calculated shipping for me, it was $3 less than Amazon.)

I do. I’m attaching the link to the counter I have. I switched to a school bus counter so it was less sensitive. But if you can turn that school bus counter into a ring, that would be a hot commodity I’m sure.

counter ring

Try a pencil box. You will have to double check that whatever you get is long enough but something like this is what I have dpns in.

They're worth it. I bought my set about two weeks in and have zero regrets. The cables have zero memory, so they don't coil up on you like other cables.

I would def say to see if you can go to a LYS to test them out before investing, but amazon does sell the full set for about $125 on average. You'd spend that much buying all the individual fixed circs and this is SO MUCH NICER. I actually just sold my 5" set in favor the 4" tips, found I liked the 4" tips just a little bit more. I felt like the project settled better and kept more weight off my wrists.

4" Tips: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PKT5WMC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 5" Tips: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QXJP1QA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There are also Hiya Hiya for that sharp point, but the ChiaoGoo cables are superior in my opinion.

I got the same pair of scissors on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Embroidery-scissors-Straight-stainless-BROSHAN/dp/B01N0TEA3U/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1537316906&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=plum+scissors&dpPl=1&dpID=41yOBVorI4L&ref=plSrch

You could order a custom dye job. I know Colorshift Yarn on Etsy takes custom orders. Actually, a quick look shows that they already have some greyscale shifts available, but not in worsted weight.

On the subject of Australian Etsy stores, here are just two in my bookmarks folder:

1. Shorn Fibres in QLD
2. The Good Sheep also in QLD

The OP should also consider NZ etsy stores as the shipping is not too bad from there.

While I have a tendency to crush over Madelinetosh (who doesn't?), Blue Moon Fibers Socks that Rock, and Hand Maiden, my current yarn crush is definitely Lanitium Ex Machina, which is a small brand made in Finland. I recently purchased a silky sock yarn in a rust color and it is the most beautiful yarn I have ever seen. The definition is incredible and the colors just shine.

I recently posted on their facebook to tell them how much I loved their yarn, and they responded with thanks in a very short amount of time. It made me giddy and I love how connected they are with their admirers.

Yes! Sconcho for chartmaking, which is under GPLv3. And u/LinkRav_Bot, a bot that gets called sometimes on this sub, is on Github under GPLv3.

I'd like to throw out there that Alcidina is having a yarn sale to promote her January Knit A Long. You can find it here, it's for "Warmers and Cowls"

The reason I think Alcidina is awesome is that a) her yarn is high quality, machine washable, and GORGEOUS. b) She dyes yarn inspired by images from the Hubble and other space telescopes. c) She's super nice and always open to suggestions. d) I get my yarn really fast.

I think the sale goes through the 13th. Sorry for the late notice, but I usually come to this thread to "buy" more than "promote." :)

Anyway I'm personally having a ton of fun with this KAL. Oh, and the Green/yellow colorway was one I suggested!

So if you have yarn money left over after buying all of Tipsy Sheep's yarn, you should totally come participate in the KAL! The patterns are free but to be eligible for prizes, you have to use 100% Alcidina yarn.

If it's garter stitch and there's an 'extra' row of purl bumps along the backside of the needle shown in the picture, I believe you would have just finished row 5, and would be onto working row 6. Also, may I just say: the apps with row counters in them are the best.

Here's the one I like to use

Found it on Amazon! Storage bag

I love my addi clicks. They’re metal. My husband got me a set that came with multiple needles and cables and a lovely leather case. And best yet you can get most of their stuff on Amazon. There is no tool to connect them you just slide down turn and click into place.

addi Click LACE Short Tips Extended Edition - Interchangeable Needle Set with addi Gold Scissors, 5 Red Cords, addi Socks Stitch Marker and addi Grip Pads https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CS69K7C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_cjaXFbH74PY92

Thanks! They’re these blocking pins. First time I got to use them!

Knitter's Pride KP800415 Knit Blockers & Pin Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M7509M0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_ZS1PFbQHF4Y5R?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I ordered the full set here. I bought an amazon warehouse so I knew it was "used -- like new" but half of the needles were gone and I still paid $97 for it. Amazon is going to let me send it back, but I was very sad when I opened it. It's like someone bought it and returned it and Amazon never bothered to check it.

The book is for sale on Amazon, in the US: https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Hats-Projects-Crochet-Applique/dp/0857831488/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1516761807&sr=1-1&keywords=animal+hats%3A+25+fun+projects

It's Barnat Blanket yarn - it's so cozy, there's a ton of colors, and projects go fast because they're chunky and fluffy! I've made a bunch of baby blankets with it, and I'm in the process of making a few other projects with it, too. I'm only a beginner, but I find it a satisfying way to make cozy things. It also washes and dries really well.

Edit: here's half of the 90's inspired, unicorn colors, giant 'baby blanket' I'm making for my 30 year old sister, but it's an example of some of the other colors of the yarn. https://i.imgur.com/fsge291.jpg

Edit 2: I get it on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004WQPM60/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_eg8QAb5RY9MAR

If you aren't sure about a pompom, place a large button on the inside of the hat, thread the ties through the holes in the button and tie a bow. This way it is easy to remove if you change your mind or need to wash the hat. Very Pink Knits has a great tutorial: https://youtu.be/L5GHR6ZyKFQ

I got clear buttons from Amazon: Buttons 1 inch (1”) - for Sewing or Crafts - 4 Hole - White Black Clear - Replacement Button -Perfect for Crafts, Coats, Shirts, Pants, Shorts, Cardigans, Blazers, Skirts -10 Piece Pack - (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KGHQ6XF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MSmjCb76WM4H3

Her colors are gorgeous! I’ve loved everything I’ve gotten from her so far!

I got the set off amazon. It seems pretty good but these are the only two I’ve done so far. Yarn Ball Winder and Yarn Umbrella Swift (with Skein Holder) Basic Combo Set

Thank you so much!
It got really heavy near the end! It's almost 9.5 lbs (~4.2 kg) I had it propped up and folded on a desk pretty much the entire time while I only unfolded the top part of it to work with it.
I used ChiaoGoo 60" circular needles and they worked really nicely! It felt like they just glided over each other.

Pattern can be found here (android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tricoton&hl=en and here (iOS): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tricoton-patrons-tuto-tricot/id1318598164 Yarn: Sorry I don't know, I just used a rest of yarn from my mom.

I have two I use on a regular basis.

Knitwits is my favorite, at least in the paid version. The free version is okay. The paid version is the shazit. Worth the cost by a long shot. Syncs with ravelry, is super versatile, can handle multiple projects.

Second runner up goes to County Plus. I like how you can set it up to count by rounds, and that it uses different colors for the changes. The Plus version also allows for multiple projects.