Episode 35: Audition Process

Episode 35: Audition Process

Thanks so much for the lovely iTunes reviews and star ratings! 

Knits in Rehearsal

Viajante by Martina Behm
I am now officially 1/3 done with this gigantic project.

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles

Whiz Bang Socks by Sarah Shoo
Sarah is half of the lovely duo behind the In a Sknit Video Podcast. 

Yarn: Yarn Ink Sparkle Fingering in Oblivion

Needles: Size 1 Karbonz Fixed Circulars

Vanilla Socks
Yarn: Berry Colorful Yarnings Saturated Sock in the Shades of Grey colorway
Needles: Size 1 Addi Turbo circular needles

Astonish Top by Katy Banks
I talked a little bit about some issues I had due to the fact that I never actually got gauge.

Yarn: Knit Picks Lindy Chain in Sagebrush and Honey 

Needles: Size 2 Addi Lace Turbos

Auditioning Knits 

Instead of talking about actual patterns I'm auditioning, I talked a little bit about my process of selecting items to shop for when I am going to a festival or other yarnie event. I talked a little about how I use the bundles feature in Ravelry to keep all of my patterns organized. 

I mentioned that I am still using the Stash2go App and really loving the features. I also talked about the one pattern that I am FOR SURE shopping for at Stitches Midwest this year, the Blue Sands Cardigan, but I want to do it with some neon in it!

So far I have 10 (10??) patterns on my list for Stitches shopping. 

Knitting News, Notes and Events

The winner of the last giveaway for The Gleener still hasn't contacted me, so I hope she does soon! Listen to episode 34 to see if you were the lucky one! 

PalKal 2015

We are well into the 2nd month now and I'm so excited every time I see a new Finished Object. Remember to keep the finished object thread chatter free, if possible. 

Thanks so much to all of the sponsors who are still providing or have provided coupon codes! 

Make sure to check out the Ravelry group for the pertinent threads. Thanks so much to all of our sponsors both of coupon codes and prizes.

This is the biggest KAL of the year for Actually Knitting! 
Here are the rules:

Cast on: June 1
Bind off: September 1

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!
3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes will be announced in an upcoming episode.
4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.
5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.
6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).
7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.
8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!
10. Use the tag PALKAL2015 on Ravelry and #palkal2015 on Instagram

In addition, I've decided that you can use WIPS for this KAL. Yay! 

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! 

The coupon codes will be listed on the podcast and are available here as well:

Dianne from Suburban Stitcher, use code PALKAL2015 for 10% off of any order May 25th through July 31st

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting, use PALKAL for 25% off of any PDF pattern (not books)

Megan from Stockinette Zombies, use ActuallyKnittingPalKal for 30% off through the end of July


Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits, use the code PalKal15 for 20% off of any of her self-published patterns, through September 1st.


Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code ACTUALLYCAFFEINATED for 50% off her patterns through September 1. 

Angela from the Revelations of a Delusional Knitter Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 25% off of her patterns.

Sarah Shoo from In a Sknit is offering her new pattern, Whiz Bang Socks, for $1.50 with the code ActuallyKnitting15

Christina from A Knitter's Life Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 1$ off of her patterns, through September 1.

Gina from Brownie Knits Podcast, use the code palkal25 for 25% off your entire order.

Thanks also for the generous (now expired) coupon codes from:
Jennifer Lassonde from Down Cellar Studio
Emily from Fibertown Knits
Anne from the Carolina Fiber Girls
Allie from Caffeinated Knitting

Prizes: 

Jan B. Smiley
1 project bag

Suburban Stitcher/Dianne
1 sock size draw string bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop.

Danie from The Prarie Girls Knit and Spin podcast and One Twisted Tree
1 skein of her Prime Sock Yarn in the Hinky Punk colorway

Mel from With Mel Video Podcast
3 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Stacie/Must Stash Yarns and Video Podcast
1 skein of her Extended Play Version of Darkside of the Moon

Emily/Fibretown
1 skein of yarn

Megan Williams/Stockinette Zombies
Sock Pattern kit that includes yarn, pattern and a bag

Anne/Carolina Fiber Girls
1 sock pattern

Estela/One More Row Please (blog/designer)
2 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Laura/Gynx Yarns
1 skein of yarn

Brenda Castiel/designer
3 patterns from her Ravelry store

Maria/Stitched in Sweden
A pattern from her Ravelry Store

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast,
Trickle Shawl Kit from Infinite Twist

Stash Dash is still going strong! Check out The Knit Girlls for more information.

Stitches Midwest is August 6-9. I'll be there, will you?

I also just finalized plans to attend SAFF, October 30-November 1 in Fletcher, NC.

Intermission: Ask me Anything

I answer a question from a listener about my knitting history.

Non-Knitting Segments

What a Crock!

Slow Cooker Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Vacation with my bestest girlfriend!

Leave it: 100 degree temps in Charlotte. GIVE ME A BREAK!

Other News and Notes

Running updates:

I'm really enjoying the power of the group when running. It just makes it easier!

I also purchased a running hydration belt, I'll be happy to let you know what I think if you are interested in such things. 

I finished reading The Martian by Andy Weir and I highly recommend it!

I'm back to reading Written in my Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon, mostly because I finished the Starz TV series that goes with the first book in the series. 

I also started reading a very silly beach type read, Shopaholic to the Stars (which I called by the wrong title) by Sophie Kinsella. The books in this series are really silly but they don't disappoint. 

Thanks for listening! 

Episode 34: Knitting Buffet

Thank you so much to all the new and returning listeners out there, and double thanks for the lovely iTunes reviews!

Special shout-out to Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits for both mentioning the podcast on her podcast and for putting information about the PalKal in her newsletter.

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Make it Work by Allie Coffey

Make it Work by Allie Coffey

Yarn: Bijou Basin Ranch Lhasa Wilderness from the Outlandish Collection in the Culloden colorway.
Needles: Knitter's Pride Nova Platina in size 4 and 6 

         I was also lucky enough to review both the yarn and needles  I used on this project.  Listen up  
         to hear my thoughts. 

Make sure you check out the Outlandish Collection by Bijou Basin Ranch.
I also mentioned the Clara Parkes Craftsy Class if you are interested in learning more about yarn.  

I also really enjoyed reviewing the Knitter's Pride Nova Platina Interchangeable Needles.

Tre o Molti by Anthony Casalena
Yarn: Madeline Tosh Tosh Merino Light in Flashdance (purple), Antique Lace (cream) and Vanilla Bean (variegated with creams, purples, browns)
Needles: US 7/4.5 mm

I love this project and I'll be entering it for the Around Your Neck Kal that is happening with Dianne of the Suburban Stitcher Video Podcast and Stacy of Must Stash Yarns and Podcast.

Here's the Lenny Kravitz scarf I talked about which I will most definitely NOT be knitting. 

I also mentioned the 

Stash Dash Update: This brings my yardage to 985 or 900.684 meters towards my goal

Knits in Rehearsal

Vanilla Socks
I started a new pair of self-striping socks while I was camping last weekend.
Yarn: Berry Colorful Yarnings Saturated Sock in the Shades of Grey colorway
Needles: Size 1 Addi Turbo circular needles

I mentioned that I referenced Laura Linneman's After Thought Heel Recipe.

Astonish Top by Katy Banks
After some ripping back, I've been working on this again.

Yarn: Knit Picks Lindy Chain in Sagebrush and Honey 

Needles: Size 2 Addi Lace Turbos

Whiz Bang Socks by Sarah Shoo
Sarah is half of the lovely duo behind the In a Sknit Video Podcast. 

Yarn: Yarn Ink Sparkle Fingering in Oblivion

Needles: Size 1 Karbonz Fixed Circulars

I briefly mentioned my opinion about the Chiaogoo Bamboo Circular needles.
Sarah is offering a coupon code to get this pattern for $1.50. Use code ActuallyKnitting15 at checkout! 

I talked about my summer knitting plans while I'm Knitting Like It's My Job. 

Auditioning Knits

Sun Tea by Laura Aylor

Knitting News, Notes and Events

World Wide Knit in Public Day was a huge success! Thanks to everyone who came out! Special thanks to our sponsors: 

Charlotte Yarn

Yarnhouse

Cottage Yarn
Baskets of Yarn

Another special thanks to all the individual prize donors! You helped make the day fun!

Stitches Midwest is August 6-9. I'll be there, will you?

Stash Dash is still going strong! Check out The Knit Girlls for more information. 

Pal Kal Progress

Make sure to check out the Ravelry group for the pertinent threads. Thanks so much to all of our sponsors both of coupon codes and prizes.
PALKAL 2015
PalKal is happening starting June 1st! I answer a few questions I've been asked on the boards, but feel free to ask anything that you think of. The most important update is that I've decided that you can use Wips for the PALKAL. Please use #palkal2015 on Instagram. I can't wait to see what you decide to do!

This is the biggest KAL of the year for Actually Knitting! 

The Podcast Along Knit Along will start officially on June 1st, but let’s start our plotting and planning now!

Here are the rules:

Cast on: June 1
Bind off: September 1

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!
3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes will be announced in an upcoming episode.
4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.
5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.
6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).
7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.
8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!
10. Use the tag PALKAL2015 on Ravelry and #palkal2015 on Instagram

In addition, I've decided that you can use WIPS for this KAL. Yay! 

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! 

The coupon codes will be listed on the podcast and are available here as well:

Dianne from Suburban Stitcher, use code PALKAL2015 for 10% off of any order May 25th through July 31st

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, use code PALKAL15 for 30% off through June 15th

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting, use PALKAL for 25% off of any PDF pattern (not books)

Megan from Stockinette Zombies, use ActuallyKnittingPalKal for 30% off through the end of July

Anne from the Carolina Fiber Girls, use PALKAL50 for 50% off any of her patterns

Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits, use the code PalKal15 for 20% off of any of her self-published patterns, through September 1st.

Allie Coffey from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 50% off of her patterns.

Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code ACTUALLYCAFFEINATED for 50% off her patterns through September 1. 

Angela from the Revelations of a Delusional Knitter Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 25% off of her patterns.

Sarah Shoo from In a Sknit is offering her new pattern, Whiz Bang Socks, for $1.50 with the code ActuallyKnitting15

Christina from A Knitter's Life Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 1$ off of her patterns, through September 1.

Prizes: 

Suburban Stitcher/Dianne
1 sock size draw string bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop.

Danie from The Prarie Girls Knit and Spin podcast and One Twisted Tree
1 skein of her Prime Sock Yarn in the Hinky Punk colorway

Mel from With Mel Video Podcast
3 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Stacie/Must Stash Yarns and Video Podcast
1 skein of her Extended Play Version of Darkside of the Moon

Emily/Fibretown
1 skein of yarn

Megan Williams/Stockinette Zombies
Sock Pattern kit that includes yarn, pattern and a bag

Anne/Carolina Fiber Girls
1 sock pattern

Estela/One More Row Please (blog/designer)
2 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Laura/Gynx Yarns
1 skein of

Brenda Castiel/designer
3 patterns from her Ravelry store

Maria/Stitched in Sweden
A pattern from her Ravelry Store

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast,
Trickle Shawl Kit from Infinite Twist

My other plans for the Pal Kal are:

Los Monos Locos in my One Twisted Tree Prime Sock in the Disco Lemonade color way

Pump of the Volume Socks, Cool Clavicle Cover and the Seamless Saloma Slippers, all by Megan Williams.

Aila Grace Shawl by Jennifer Lassonde.

Swirl E Socks by Susie White.

Gleener Giveaway Contest ended on June 15th, listen up to see if you are the lucky winner!

Knitting Talk Back: Blocking

Listen up for some information on blocking, what my go-to tools are and a review of the Knitter's Pride Blockers. 

This tutorial from Craftsy has some great information for new and experienced knitters. 

Non-Knitting Segments

What a Crock

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

This recipe isn't truly a crockpot recipe, but I use mine to cook the spaghetti squash! Makes it really easy to get started on the rest of the recipe when you get home from work. 

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Summer Break is here! 

Leave it: Construction on my building

Other News and Notes

I have been able to spend some time with my family recently, which was very nice. I am still reading The Martian by Andy Weir and I actually picked up Written in my Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon again. 

Running updates: nothing to share, just plugging along. 

Thanks for listening! 

Episode 33: Work Gets in the Way

Knitting Segments

Thanks for the new iTunes reviews and for the lovely mentions on The 2 Knit Lit Chicks podcast, The Knotty Girls Knit Cast and The Knitmore Girls. 

Show Ready Knits

Mug Cozy
Pattern: The Mug Sleeve by Brook Croley
Yarn: Knit Picks Swish Worsted
Needles: Size 6 Knitter's Pride Karbonz

Listen up to hear my review of the Karbonz Interchangeable Needles!

Vanilla Socks
I am one row away from the bind-off, so I'm saving this for #stashdash2015 as well.

Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Saki Bamboo in the Garnet Ridge colorway

Needles: US 1.5 Addi Lace fixed circular needles

I mentioned my LYS, Yarn House, which you should definitely check out if you are in the area.

I also talked about a way to organize your projects on Ravelry.

Knits in Rehearsal

Viajante by Martina Behm

No real updates here. I hope to finish this by the time I take my trip with my best friend this summer. It would be a great amount of yardage for #stashdash2015.

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles

Tre o Molti by Anthony Casalena
Yarn: Madeline Tosh Tosh Merino Light in Flashdance (purple), Antique Lace (cream) and Vanilla Bean (variegated with creams, purples, browns)
Needles: US 7/4.5 mm

I am really loving this project and I'll be using it for the Around Your Neck Kal that is happening with Dianne of the Suburban Stitcher Video Podcast and Stacy of Must Stash Yarns and Podcast.

Vanilla Socks
I started a new pair of self-striping socks while I was camping last weekend.
Yarn: Berry Colorful Yarnings Saturated Sock in the Shades of Grey colorway
Needles: Size 1 Addi Turbo circular needles

Make it Work by Allie Coffey

Yarn: Bijou Basin Ranch Lhasa Wilderness from the Outlandish Collection in the Culloden colorway. (I'll review this yarn in depth on episode 34).
Needles: Knitter's Pride Nova Platina in size 4 and 6 (I'll also be reviewing these needles in episode 34)

Long Tail Cast On

Here's the document I found to help estimate the inches of yarn needed to do a Long Tail Cast On.

Knitting News, Notes and Events

The Fix-A-Stitch contest ended on May31. Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner!

The Gleener giveaway is going through May 15th, see the Ravelry group for details.

All the Kals I'm doing this summer: 

There are so many awesome KALS happening now or starting very soon. If you like knitting along with others you are sure to find something you'd like to participate in. Double, triple or quadruple dipping is encouraged by the Actually Knitting Podcast. 

Stash Dash is a KAL sponsored by the Knit Girllls. Be sure to check them out for more information. I think I will enter the 5k option this year. I talk about my current wips and where I stand for yardage if I finish them all!

Around Your Neck is a KAL sponsored by Dianne of Suburban Stitcher Stacy of Must Stash Yarns and Podcast .

Cardi, Tank or Tee is being sponsored by the 2 Knit Lit Chicks. I am working on my Astonish Top for this KAL.

The Great Outdoors KAL is sponsored by Emily of the Knitting Butterflies podcast. She wants you to be inspired to knit in or for the great outdoors this summer.

PALKAL 2015
PalKal is happening starting June 1st! I answer a few questions I've been asked on the boards, but feel free to ask anything that you think of. The most important update is that I've decided that you can use Wips for the PALKAL. Please use #palkal2015 on Instagram. I can't wait to see what you decide to do!

This is the biggest KAL of the year for Actually Knitting! 

The Podcast Along Knit Along will start officially on June 1st, but let’s start our plotting and planning now!

Here are the rules:

Cast on: June 1
Bind off: September 1

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!
3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes will be announced in an upcoming episode.
4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.
5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.
6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).
7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.
8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!
10. Use the tag PALKAL2015 on Ravelry and #palkal2015 on Instagram

In addition, I've decided that you can use WIPS for this KAL. Yay! 

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! 

The coupon codes will be listed on the podcast and are available here as well:

Dianne from Suburban Stitcher, use code PALKAL2015 for 10% off of any order May 25th through July 31st

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, use code PALKAL15 for 30% off through June 15th

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting, use PALKAL for 25% off of any PDF pattern (not books)

Megan from Stockinette Zombies, use ActuallyKnittingPalKal for 30% off through the end of July

Anne from the Carolina Fiber Girls, use PALKAL50 for 50% off any of her patterns

Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits, use the code PalKal15 for 20% off of any of her self-published patterns, through September 1st.

Allie Coffey from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 50% off of her patterns.

Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code ACTUALLYCAFFEINATED for 50% off her patterns through September 1. 

Angela from the Revelations of a Delusional Knitter Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 25% off of her patterns.

New this Episode: 
Christina from A Knitter's Life Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 1$ off of her patterns, through September 1.

Today for the first time I mention the prizes! So far we have 15 prizes for some lucky listeners. Thanks so much to the sponsors below for their donations!

Suburban Stitcher/Dianne
1 sock size draw string bag of winner's choice from her Etsy Shop.

Danie from The Prarie Girls Knit and Spin podcast and One Twisted Tree
1 skein of her Prime Sock Yarn in the Hinky Punk colorway

Mel from With Mel Video Podcast
3 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Stacie/Must Stash Yarns and Video Podcast
1 skein of her Extended Play Version of Darkside of the Moon

Emily/Fibretown
1 skein of yarn

Megan Williams/Stockinette Zombies
Sock Pattern kit that includes yarn, pattern and a bag

Anne/Carolina Fiber Girls
1 sock pattern

Estela/One More Row Please (blog/designer)
2 patterns from her Ravelry Store

Laura/Gynx Yarns
1 skein of

Brenda Castiel/designer
3 patterns from her Ravelry store


Other Events:
World Wide Knit in Public Day is June 13, 2015. If you are local or Semi-local, please join us at Heist Brewery in Noda, Charlotte, NC. Details can be found on the Ravelry board or on the brand new Actually Knitting Podcast Facebook page! We will be joined by the Carolina Fiber Girls, Ann and Janis, and tons of lovely knitters!

Mini-Skein Swap Group

Stitches Midwest:
I'll be at this event August 6-9, 2015 and I cannot wait! If you are going be sure to let me know!

Knitting TalkBack: Caring for your Knits

Listen up as I share some listener comments about how they care for their knits. 

I also review Allure Fiber Wash by Bijou Basin Ranch. 

Non-Knitting Segments

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Meditation App called Breathe

I mentioned learning a little bit about meditation from the Teaching Your Brain to Knit Podcast. 

Leave it: Fear of sunburn is now dominating my life! 

Other News and Notes

I am still reading The Martian by Andy Weir

I mentioned some new to me podcasts, including Stitched in Sweden with Maria and New Hampshire Knits with Claire. 

I also mentioned reading The Red Tent by Anita Diamant and Top Secret 21 by Janet Evanovich. (Oops, I accidentally called this book Takedown 21!) 

I officially start my 1/2 Marathon training on June 6th! 

Thank you so much for listening! 

Episode 32: If you were drinking, you'd be drunk by now

Thanks so much for the itunes reviews and also to all the new listeners, returning listeners, Instagram followers and group members on Ravelry!

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Diamond Mosaic Washcloth by Valerie Beard

Yarn: Lily Sugar 'n Cream Solids in Red

Needles: Knit Picks Caspian Straight Needles in Size 4 US/3.5 mm

This washcloth knitted up super quick and has a lovely diamond pattern that  I might borrow for a future project

This went into my gift for my mom for Mothers Day and I have to say, it was a pretty impressive looking gift! 

Knits In Rehearsal 

Viajante by Martina Behm

No real updates here. I hope to finish this by the time I take my trip with my best friend this summer. It would be a great amount of yardage for #stashdash2015.

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles 

Vanilla Socks
I am one row away from the bind-off, so I'm saving this for #stashdash2015 as well.

Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Saki Bamboo in the Garnet Ridge colorway

Needles: US 1.5 Addi Lace fixed circular needles



These two projects are in hibernation for the time being...

Mama Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker

Haven't worked on this project in a while. It's just too hot to knit a cardigan!

Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Chispas Colorway
Needles: Size 6 Signature Convertibles

Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer
Again, just not really in the mood for this right now with the hot weather.
Yarn: Jones Street DK by The Copper Corgi
Needles: Signature Convertibles Size

I've worked quite a bit on....

Astonish Top by Katy Banks
I decided to stop and measure myself before continuing on, and it looks like I need to rip back a few rows and add about 1/2 an inch to the body before I knit the second section.

Yarn: Knit Picks Lindy Chain in Sagebrush and Honey

Needles: Size 2 Addi Lace Turbos

Newly in Rehearsal...
Tre o Molti by Anthony Casalena
I am really enjoying this pattern! It's very addictive, as everything is in small sections. When you finish one, you really want to start the next one!
Yarn: Madeline Tosh Tosh Merino Light in Flashdance (purple), Antique Lace (cream) and Vanilla Bean (variegated with creams, purples, browns)

Needles: US 7/4.5 mm

I am really loving this project and I'll be using it for the Around Your Neck Kal that is happening with Dianne of the Suburban Stitcher Video Podcast.

I did finish some blanket squares..but the blanket is a long way from being finished. 

Auditioning Knits

Make it Work by Allie Coffey

Allie is the co-host of the Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast

I'll likely cast this on soon, as it's going to be my first project for the #PALKAL2015. I have some lovely Bijou Basin Ranch yarn from their Outlandish Collection that I'll be using, and I'll be doing a yarn review on Episode 33. 

Whiz Bang Socks by Sarah from In a Sknit

Knitting News, Notes and Events

Prizes were shipped last week, hopefully everyone has received their packages! 

Speaking of prizes...

The Date Night contest is officially closed. The winner was announced, so listen up to see if you are the lucky one! 

We still have the ongoing Fix-A-Stitch contest. Listen to episode 31 for details on how to win this amazing tool! The contest will run until May 31. 

So. Many. KALS....

There are so many awesome KALS happening now or starting very soon. If you like knitting along with others you are sure to find something you'd like to participate in. Double, triple or quadruple dipping is encouraged by the Actually Knitting Podcast. 

Stash Dash is a KAL sponsored by the Knit Girllls. Be sure to check them out for more information. I think I will enter the 5k option this year. I talk about my current wips and where I stand for yardage if I finish them all!

Around Your Neck is a KAL sponsored by Dianne of Suburban Stitcher. Her blog is linked above. Wips count!

Cardi, Tank or Tee is being sponsored by the 2 Knit Lit Chicks. I am working on my Astonish Top for this KAL.

The Great Outdoors KAL is sponsored by Emily of the Knitting Butterflies podcast. She wants you to be inspired to knit in or for the great outdoors this summer.

PALKAL 2015
PalKal is happening starting June 1st! I answer a few questions I've been asked on the boards, but feel free to ask anything that you think of. The most important update is that I've decided that you can use Wips for the PALKAL. Please use #palkal2015 on Instagram. I can't wait to see what you decide to do!

This is the biggest KAL of the year for Actually Knitting! 

The Podcast Along Knit Along will start officially on June 1st, but let’s start our plotting and planning now!

Here are the rules:

Cast on: June 1
Bind off: September 1

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!
3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes will be announced in an upcoming episode.
4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.
5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.
6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).
7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.
8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!
10. Use the tag PALKAL2015 on Ravelry and #palkal2015 on Instagram

In addition, I've decided that you can use WIPS for this KAL. Yay! 

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! 

The coupon codes will be listed on the podcast and are available here as well:

Dianne from Suburban Stitcher, use code PALKAL2015 for 10% off of any order May 25th through July 31st

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, use code PALKAL15 for 30% off through June 15th

Emily from Fibretown, use PALKAL25 for 25% off through May 31st

Laura from The Knit Girllls, SSKROCKS for 34% off through May 31st

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting, use PALKAL for 25% off of any PDF pattern (not books)

Megan from Stockinette Zombies, use ActuallyKnittingPalKal for 30% off through the end of July

Anne from the Carolina Fiber Girls, use PALKAL50 for 50% off any of her patterns

Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits, use the code PalKal15 for 20% off of any of her self-published patterns, through September 1st.

New this episode: 
Allie Coffey from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 50% off of her patterns.

Daniela from Caffeinated Knitting Video Podcast, use the code ACTUALLYCAFFEINATED for 50% off her patterns through September 1. 

Angela from the Revelations of a Delusional Knitter Podcast, use the code PALKAL2015 for 25% off of her patterns.

I already mentioned by plan to knit the Make it Work Hat (linked above), and the Whiz Bang Socks (also linked above), and then I mention that I also want to make the Swirl-E Socks by Susie White of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast. I also mentioned making Los Monos Locos by Jennifer O'Sullivan. 

Other Events:
World Wide Knit in Public Day is June 13, 2015. If you are local or Semi-local, please join us at Heist Brewery in Noda, Charlotte, NC. Details can be found on the Ravelry board or on the brand new Actually Knitting Podcast Facebook page! We will be joined by the Carolina Fiber Girls, Ann and Janis, and tons of lovely knitters!

Stitches Midwest:
I'll be at this event August 6-9, 2015 and I cannot wait! If you are going be sure to let me know!

Knitting Girls Weekend in Asheville
I visited the Dressing Downton exhibit at the Biltmore House and really enjoyed it.

I also fell (hard) off of the #stashdownthrowdown wagon at the Black Mountain Yarn Shop. I bought some Shibui Knits Staccato, and some souvenir yarn by Fable Fibers.

I also visited Friends and Fiberworks in Candler, NC. I fell down again (not as hard) and bought some Lydia Yarns Gradient Sock.

I am trying not to feel guilty about buying

The Reviews are In

This episode I review Renewe Dryer Balls by Mountain Meadow Wool. While these aren't really a product specific to knitting, they are made from wool and I really enjoyed using them. 

Knitting Talk Back: Caring for your Knits

This episode I start a series of talkbacks about taking care of your knitted items. If you have any ideas, feel free to share them with the group. Today I talk about a product I really love, The Gleener. Listen to details about how to win one of these awesome tools for yourself! This contest will run from May 22 to June 15. 

Intermission Ask Me Anything

In this episode I answer a question about my theatre life! 

Non-Knitting Segments

What a Crock! 

I went old school in this episode and made a dish I found from Betty Crocker. Betty Crocker Slow Cooker Chicken with Tomatoes and Artichokes. 

Love it or Leave it

Love it: 

Garfunkel and Oates on Netflix! 

Leave it: 

Stress due to final exams coming up! I think I can I think I can I think I can! 

Other News and Notes:

No running news to update. 

I finished reading The Girl on the Train, and I liked it, but wasn't as impressed by it as I hoped I would be. 

I started reading The Martian by Andy Weir and I'm really enjoying it so far. 

Episode 31: Pal Kal Planning Stages

Knitting Segments

Show-Ready Knits

Hex-a-cloth by Dione Read

Great free pattern on Ravelry

Yarn: Lily Sugar and Cream Solids in Grape

Needles: Size 6 Chiaogoo Red Lace Circulars

Lovely quick little campfire knitting project. 

Starfish Cloth by Dione Read

Another great free pattern by same designer

Yarn: Peaches and Creme Worsted, in Fiesta Colorway

Needles: Size 4 Knit Picks Caspian Straight Needles

Knits in Rehearsal

Viajante by Martina Behm
This is now in the knit until forever stage, but I love it!

No real updates here. 

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles 

Vanilla Socks
No pattern on this one, just cast on 32 stitches using Judy's Magic Cast On, did the increases until I had 64, and started knitting away. Great travel project, until I get to the heel, of course. As a still relatively new sock knitter, I don't have the heels down by memory yet. What's your favorite toe-up heel?

Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Saki Bamboo in the Garnet Ridge colorway

Needles: US 1.5 Addi Lace fixed circular needles

Mama Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker

I am plugging along on this, but it's become a mostly at home project since I am alternating skeins and that's a lot of yarn to carry in your purse (though I've done it before!) I have linked to my project, which is still in the very beginning stages, but please check out the design as well.

Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Chispas Colorway
Needles: Size 6 Signature Convertibles

Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer
Yarn: Jones Street DK by The Copper Corgi
Needles: Signature Convertibles Size

Haven't really worked on much lately except...

Astonish Top by Katy Banks

Yarn: Knit Picks Lindy Chain in Sage and Honey

Needles: Size 2 Addi Lace Turbos

I hope you enjoy my review of the Lindy Chain yarn!
I also mentioned how much I love LoLo Bars! 

Auditioning Knits

Camp Tank by Malikoo

The Reviews Are In!

Fix-a-Stitch is a knitting repair tool that you absolutely need in your knitting toolbox! Enjoy the review and listen up for a contest to win your very own set!

Knitting News, Notes and Events

Actually Knitting has a Facebook page, like it if you get a chance!



Knit, Wear, Love Contest ended on May 1 and the winner is announced!


Rak-a-Long ended on May 1, 2015 and the winners of the prizes are announced! Listen up to see if you are a lucky winner! Thank you for participating!

Date Night Contest is ending on May 15, 2015. You still have a few days to enter. Listen to episode 29 for details.

World Wide Knit in Public Day is June 13, 2015. If you are local or Semi-local, please join us at Heist Brewery in Noda, Charlotte, NC. Details can be found on the Ravelry board or on the brand new Actually Knitting Podcast Facebook page! We will be joined by the Carolina Fiber Girls, Ann and Janis, and tons of lovely knitters!

How Lovely! Designer Brenda Castiel is a listener and she has generously offered a coupon code to Actually Knitting listeners for 30% off of any of her patterns! She has also generously donated prizes for the PalKal, which we will hear about in Episode 32. 

PALKAL 2015! 

This is the biggest KAL of the year for Actually Knitting! 

The Podcast Along Knit Along will start officially on June 1st, but let’s start our plotting and planning now!

Here are the rules:

Cast on: June 1
Bind off: September 1

The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project. You can also use a project bag by a podcaster!

1. The design, yarn/fiber and/or project bag must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
2. Use the chatter thread for discussion. Make suggestions. There are TONS of podcasts out there and almost no one knows about all of them, so if you know of a podcaster designer/yarnie/bag maker, feel free to share with us!
3. You are encouraged to take advantage of the coupon codes offered by our sponsors, but you are not limited to those podcasters for the KAL. Sponsors and coupon codes will be announced in an upcoming episode.
4. Please post finished objects in the non-chatter thread and include a link to the podcaster you are supporting.
5. Enter as many projects as you like. Each project gets a separate post in the non-chatter thread.
6. A note about project bags: a project bag may only be entered into the contest one time for an entry. (You can’t just keep using a podcaster project bag over and over and entering the contest that way).
7. You must be a member of the Actually Knitting Podcast Group to win.
8. Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
9. Please do not chatter in the non-chatter thread. It makes it more difficult to draw a winner!
10. Use the tag PALKAL2015 on Ravelry and #palkal2015 on Instagram.

We have some great sponsors and wonderful prizes that I can’t wait to share with you all! Let’s make some plans for summer knitting! 

The coupon codes will be listed on the podcast and are available here as well:

Diane from Suburban Stitcher, use code PALKAL2015 for 10% off of any order May 25th through July 31st

Jennifer from the Down Cellar Studio Podcast, use code PALKAL15 for 30% off through June 15th

Emily from Fibretown, use PALKAL25 for 25% off through May 31st

Laura from The Knit Girllls, SSKROCKS for 34% off through May 31st

Alana Dakos from Never Not Knitting, use PALKAL for 25% off of any PDF pattern (not books)

Megan from Stockinette Zombies, use ActuallyKnittingPalKal for 30% off through the end of July

Anne from the Carolina Fiber Girls, use PALKAL50 for 50% off any of her patterns

Elizabeth Green Musselman from Dark Matter Knits, use the code PalKal15 for 20% off of any of her self-published patterns, through September 1st. 

Prizes will be announced on Episode 32. 

-------------------------------Intermission Entertainment: Ask me Anything-----------------------------------

I've opened a thread on Ravelry called "Ask Me Anything." Since these questions could be about knitting, theatre and even my personal life (oh my!), I've decided to make it an Intermission Entertainment segment. Ask me Anything!

Today I answer a question about the podcasting equipment that I use. I mention my RODE podcaster mic  and that I use Garage Band (an Apple product) to record my episodes.

Here I am at the mic as I edited the podcast!

I also mentioned that I took a class on Lynda.com about podcasting. 

Non-Knitting Segments

What a Crock

Vegetable Parmesan Quinoa

Love it or Leave it

Love: Camping
Leave: Complicated relationships

Other News and Notes

I finished reading The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins. 

I started reading The Book of Life by Deborah Harness. 

I am still reading Written in my Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon. 

I purchased a running watch and I'm really enjoying the feedback it provides. It's the Garmin 220.

Have a Knitting weekend planned soon with some friends. Will be nice to check out some yarn stores, especially the Black Mountain Yarn Shop and see the Dressing Downton exhibit at the Biltmore House.

Episode 30: Are You Picking Up What I'm Putting Down?

Knitting Segments

Show Ready Knits

Catnip Socks by Wendy D. Johnson
I finished these beauties!

Yarn: One Twisted Tree Prime Sock in the HinkyPunk Colorway

Dyed by the wonderful Danie of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

Needles: US Size 1.5 Addi Turbo fixed circular needles

Knits in Rehearsal

Viajante by Martina Behm
This is now in the knit until forever stage, but I love it!

No real updates here. 

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles 

Vanilla Socks
No pattern on this one, just cast on 32 stitches using Judy's Magic Cast On, did the increases until I had 64, and started knitting away. Great travel project, until I get to the heel, of course. As a still relatively new sock knitter, I don't have the heels down by memory yet. What's your favorite toe-up heel?

Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Saki Bamboo in the Garnet Ridge colorway

Needles: US 1.5 Addi Lace fixed circular needles
Judy's Magic Cast On 

Any suggestions for campfire knitting? 

Mama Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker

I am plugging along on this, but it's become a mostly at home project since I am alternating skeins and that's a lot of yarn to carry in your purse (though I've done it before!) I have linked to my project, which is still in the very beginning stages, but please check out the design as well.

Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Chispas Colorway
Needles: Size 6 Signature Convertibles

I mentioned the Yarnderwoman video podcast which you should watch!

Lucy Hat by Carina Spencer
Yarn: Jones Street DK by The Copper Corgi
Needles: Signature Convertibles Size

Check out the Stash and Burn podcast for more information about their KAL 15 hats in 2015

Auditioning Knits

Astonish Top by Katy Banks

Published in the book Golden Morning by Knit Picks

Lindy Chain yarn by Knit Picks

I ordered the Sagebrush as my main color and Honey as my accent color. 

I love linen! 

Psst. I already ordered the yarn! 

Tre o Molti by Anthony Casalena

I have queued this and matched it up with 3 colors of Madeline Tosh Merino Light I have in my stash! 

Looking for a fun washcloth pattern to do for my mom, grandmother and aunts for Mother's Day. 

News, Notes and Events

Knit, Wear, Love Giveaway ends May 1st! Listen to Episode 28 for details.

Date Night Giveaway ends May 15th. Listen to Episode 29 for details. 

Rak-a-Long KAL

Ends May 1st. I'll probably close the thread that day or the next, so get your objects photographed and posted by then! I have 2 fabulous prizes for this KAL. 

World Wide Knit in Public Day: June 13, 2015

If you are in the area join me at Heist Brewery in Noda in Charlotte from 11-3! We will have prizes and it's sure to be a great time!

My Knitting News

I discussed my knitting group activities and some reactions we have gotten knitting in public lately. I also talked about my experience teaching the knitting classes at the women's recovery center last week. I can't wait to go back! 

PALKAL 2015

Podcast-a-long Knit-a-long

This is by far the best KAL I did last year and this year is sure to be even bigger and better!
This will run June 1 to September 1 and you are welcome to double dip in any other KAL you are doing (Stash Dash with the Knit Girllls? Or the Around the Neck KAL with Suburban Stitcher?)
The basic idea is to support a podcaster you listen to or watch by knitting one of their patterns and/or using their yarns for your project.
The design, yarn or fiber must be from a knitting/crochet/fiber podcaster. (Not all 3, just one of those to qualify)
You can use of the suggested podcasters on the chatter thread, but you are not limited to that list. If the designer or yarn dyer is a podcaster, it qualifies.
Have fun supporting a podcaster designer or yarnie!
Use the tag PALKAL2015 on your project pages, and on Instagram (if you use that service) as well (#palkal2015).

Stay tuned to Episode 31 for some coupon codes from some of your favorite podcasters! 

Knitting Talk Back 

This is a trick because I don't have a talk-back topic today! Please go to the thread in the Ravelry group and post a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast in the "What Would You Like to Hear About?" thread. 

Non-Knitting 

What a Crock! 

Easy Creamy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken (say that 5 times fast)

Love it or Leave it

Love: 

Teaching my knitting classes

Outlander is back! 

Leave: 

My sleep (or lack thereof) issues

Other News and Notes

Book Updates

I finished reading (listening) to The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion 

I liked it, but not as much as the first book. 

Currently reading The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, because everyone else already has! 

Running News: 

I finished my 10k! I got my medal and now I'm on the hunt for more medals! I'm officially training for a 1/2 marathon in November! 

Episode 29: Date Night

Knitting Segments! 

Show Ready Knits

Adjustable Coffee Mug Wrap by Danido Crafty

Yarn: Paton's North America Classic Wool Worsted in the Dark Gray Mix

Needles: Size 5 Knit Picks Caspian Wood Straights

First FO for the RakAlong (How lazy have I been about my own KAL?) 

I cast on 12 stitches instead of 11 because I wanted my increases, etc, to all be in the center. 

The Cup Sleeve by Brook Croley

Yarn: Paton's North America Classic Wool Worsted in the Dark Gray Mix

Needles: Size 6 Signature Convertibles (Magic Loop)

This is my 2nd FO for the RakAlong, and it would make a great project to learn cables and knitting in the round. 

Both of these projects will count for the KAL going on in the Down Cellar Studio Podcast group, hosted by Boston Jen! 

Knits in Rehearsal

Viajante by Martina Behm
This is now in the knit until forever stage, but I love it!

Finally, actually cast this on instead of just talking about casting it on! 

Yarn: Miss Babs Kilimanjaro in the Believable color way

Needles: US Size 3 and US Size 4 Signature Convertibles 

Vanilla Socks
No pattern on this one, just cast on 32 stitches using Judy's Magic Cast On, did the increases until I had 64, and started knitting away. Great travel project, until I get to the heel, of course. As a still relatively new sock knitter, I don't have the heels down by memory yet. What's your favorite toe-up heel?

Yarn: Wisdom Yarns Saki Bamboo in the Garnet Ridge colorway

Needles: US 1.5 Addi Lace fixed circular needles
Judy's Magic Cast On 

I mentioned the OMG Heel by Meghan Williams and the Mystik Spiral Socks by Josh Ryks. 

Catnip Socks by Wendy D. Johnson
I finished the first sock a couple of weeks ago, but haven't gotten much done other than the toe on the second one.

Yarn: One Twisted Tree Prime Sock in the HinkyPunk Colorway

Dyed by the wonderful Danie of the Prairie Girls Knit and Spin Podcast

Needles: US Size 1.5 Addi Turbo fixed circular needles

Mama Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker

I am plugging along on this, but it's become a mostly at home project since I am alternating skeins and that's a lot of yarn to carry in your purse (though I've done it before!) I have linked to my project, which is still in the very beginning stages, but please check out the design as well.

Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Chispas Colorway
Needles: Size 6 Signature Convertibles

Crochet Provision Cast On

Knitting News, Notes and Events

RakAlong
You have until May 1, 2015 to post your finished objects. Make something for someone "just because." There is no yardage requirement, but you need to keep your entry to 1 post per person, so just update your original post each time you finish something. 

2015 Goals Update

I wanted to update you (and myself) on my progress on my 2015 goals, now that we've reached the end of the 1st quarter of the year. Listen up to hear how I've done on my 5 knitting goals of 2015: 

• Education
• Charity Knitting
• Gift Knitting 
• Knitting from Stash
• Zen Knitting

Stashdown Throwdown

Don't forget to use the hashtag #stashdownthrowdown on Instagram! How are you doing with your Stashdown goals? Are you loving that amazing stash? 

Giveaway: Knit, Wear, Love by Amy Herzog

In episode 28 I reviewed this amazing book, don't forget to join the Actually Knitting Podcast Group on Ravelry and enter to win your copy! The contest runs through May 1st!

500 Member Giveaway

I announced the winner of the 500 member giveaway! Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner of a great bag! 

Knitting Talk Back: Date Night 

Date Night is a fabulous collection of 5 patterns by Maria Yarley of Elegant Economy Knits. I hope you enjoy the review and, there is a copy for a lucky listener, too!  Listen to the episode to find out how to enter! 

Non-Knitting Segments

What a Crock

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Love it or Leave it

Love it: Spring Break, my trip to Savannah

Leave it: Chores! 

Stage Craft

I did a little bit of sewing this week, and made this project bag! 

I used this tutorial to make the bag, very easy to follow for a non-seamstress like myself! Thanks to the Knitmore Girls for pointing me in the direction of this tutorial. 

Other News and Notes

Book Updates
I finished reading Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo. I really enjoyed it and recommend it!
I mentioned the podcast Teaching Your Brain to Knit.

I'm still doing this book challenge. 26 Books in 2015 Book Challenge

I started reading The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion. I loved the first book in this series,  The Rosie Project so I have high hopes for this one!

Running Updates
I will run my first 10k on Saturday April 11, 2015. I'm a bit nervous because I'm still having some problems but, I'm as ready as I'm going to be! Wish me luck!