I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 121 Andrea Mowry 2023-06-30 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I am so excited to finally be making plans for the Spark cardigan, which I’ve had sitting in my Ravelry library for years. I’m planning on handspinning the contrast color for it! I have mostly done fractal 2-ply when I spin, or I chain ply. I want to try spinning a 3-ply for this project that isn’t chain ply. How would you spin the fiber to achieve the most success? How do you divide the braids? (I’ll have 3 braids to work with, but you can also explain how to do it with one braid so I can try that in the future too!) 2. Hi Andrea! Love your work and have totally been spinfluenced by you to start spinning - I'm in Australia and my Opa has a little farm and has gifted me a luscious merino fleece, and gave me his old ashford traditional wheel which was sitting in his living room for decoration!! (Yep, he really is the best!!) Would love to know how you juggle your different crafting interests without losing hope that you wont wanna go back to a craft you've currently lost interest in? I started knitting 2 years ago, and in the last year have gotten into spinning, processing fleece and natural dyeing - now I don't have much knitting mojo as I'd rather process and dye! I have limited time as a busy mum of 2 little kiddos and wondering if there's hope juggling all these or should I just stick to one thing?3. Hi Andrea, I am a new spinner and I am joining your Attune Shawl Spin-A-Long. The spinning is going well so far, but you mentioned that you rewind your bobbins before you ply them?!?! Do you rewind them the same direction you spun them... or... the same way you intend to ply them??? I Spin Z TWIST/Clockwise and Ply S TWIST/Anticlockwise I am sorry if this is an obvious question! I would like to learn to do it the correct way.TINY FIBRE STUDIO4. I have a question about yarn dyeing and it's effect on gauge. I just bought a lovely natural 50% finull 50% mohair yarn and I'm planning to dye it with spruce cones some time during the upcoming weekend. Since I recieved the yarn early, I was wondering if I could already do a gauge swatch? Or do you think the yarn will change a lot during the dyeing process and affect the gauge? It will be my first try to hand-dye yarn. Any insight would be helpful!5. Hi Andrea! I have a very newbie spinning question for you, and I’m sorry if you’ve talked about this before! I’m wondering if you have any resources on planing for a larger spin? I am participating in my first TDF and SAL, spinning for the Attune Shawl. It’s my first time spinning for an actual project, and I have 3 4oz bags of hand dyed fiber (same colorway) for the CC. I’m not sure on the logistics of spinning that much fiber. If I’m spinning for a 2 ply, would I split each bag in 1/2 and aim for 3 4oz skeins, as if I was doing them all individually? Or mix bags and do 2 6oz skiens? One giant mama skien? Trying not to overthink it toooo much but want to set myself up for success! 6. I’m really excited to knit the traveller but I did take the time to make myself swatch! I’ve got perfect stitch gauge however my row gauge isn’t quite there - 36 rows rather than 39 to 4”. I don’t really want to mess with the needles when the stitch gauge is bang on the 21.5! What do I do!? I know that row gauge is particularly important with this stitch pattern so should I be prioritising that? Thank you so much for any answer you can give, I really enjoy and appreciate the support you give the community every week ❤️ Yarnitecture: bookshop.org/search?keywords=yarnitectureA New Spin On color: alannawilcox.comSock class: schoolofsweetgeorgia.com/courses/spin-to-knit-socksUnbraided: blurb.com/b/9456971-unbraided-the-art-science-of-spinning-colour?ebook=695655I am wearing the Vellichor Crop:ravelry.com/patterns/library/vellichordreareneeknits.com/shop/vellichorAttune Shawl SAL/KAL Ravelry forum: ravelry.com/discuss/wool-n-spinning/topics/4261095Instagram Hashtag: #spintoknitATTUNERachel’s YouTube Video: youtube.com/live/jmYqOdGbLQg?feature=share&t=775DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 120 Andrea Mowry 2023-06-25 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! Thank you for your generosity in providing answers to our questions each week. My question is about amount of ease in a sweater/cardigan. I have a couple of simple sweaters under my belt and want to venture into doing more sweater knitting. I love to wear a shirt or turtleneck underneath my sweaters and never button a cardigan. I do like a cardigan to come together at the front with some overlap though. I know most patterns have a certain amount of ease that is already figured into it and was wondering if there is an amount of ease I need to be looking for or do I just go up a size to make room for that shirt underneath. Thanks!2. I"m excited to be embarking on knitting my first Weekender sweater! I plan to use 60% silk/40% linen yarn. Although this yarn is the same weight as what the pattern calls for (worsted), I'm wondering whether there are any pattern mods I should consider since I'm not using wool. I'm planning to knit a size 3 based on my size but I have 26 yards less than what the pattern suggests for that size. Given that I'm short with short arms, I'm choosing not to worry! But - I'm thinking of skipping swatching - eek, I already know what you're going to say probably LOL! Thank you so much for all your lovely joyous fun content!!3. As I prepare to join in for the first time with Tour de Fleece, I'm brainstorming and planning projects I could spin for a new things I can learn. I'm a new spinner (thanks to you and your "spinfluence"! lol) and am wanting to try spinning a batt after working with multiple braids. If I plied a woolen single from a batt together with a worsted single from a braid, would strange things happen? You're always gushing about combo spins, and I'd love to know what kind of things play well together and what could make something not-so-knittable. Thank you!:)4. Hello! I am wondering what you do when you are done plying your handspun and have leftover singles on one of the bobbins. I just finished my first three-ply sock spin, but I have leftovers on a couple of the bobbins that I feel bad just throwing them out!5. What is the ideal length/place to separate for sleeves and body on a top down round yoke sweater? I followed the pattern and measurements for the Pink Velvet sweater but found that when I lift my arms, the whole sweater shifts on my body and I think it’s because the separation for the sleeves sits too low on me. Is there a way to know or measure where I should do the separation to better suit my measurements or is this just something unique to circular yoke sweaters? Thanks for any advice and love your weekly videos! :)I am wearing the DRK Everyday Sweater:ravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-sweaterdreareneeknits.com/shop/drk-everyday-sweaterAttune Shawl SAL/KAL Ravelry forum: ravelry.com/discuss/wool-n-spinning/topics/4261095Instagram Hashtag: #spintoknitATTUNERachel’s YouTube Video: youtube.com/live/jmYqOdGbLQg?feature=share&t=775DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 119 Andrea Mowry 2023-06-16 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. ALTERNATING SKEINS - is there a technique for alternating skeins when working in reverse stockinette or in garter stitch? When I use the “carrying up” method that works great for stockinette, I end up with visible dimples on the right side unless my gauge is loose. They’re very uniform, so it doesn’t look terrible, but I’d rather have it be invisible. Any help you can offer would be much appreciated! Thanks so much! skeinyarn.com/blogs/notions/how-to-alternate-skeins2. Hello Andrea, I have knit a blanket in a log cabin pattern. Now I want to add an edge to give it a cleaner look. Is it possible to knit the border in the round? Do I add stitches in the corners on every row? I hope this makes sense? I think what I'm asking is do I increase stitches in the corner on every row?3. Hi Andrea! A virtual thank you hug for these videos. I’m a newer knitter, and with my husband and I both working and enjoying our three busy kiddos, I greatly appreciate that I can watch these whenever I can find a moment. The information (and connection) have proved invaluable. (My kids joke about me having to have my “time with Andrea” to be happy.) My question: I’m knitting a top down short sleeve sweater in the round. The beginning of the round is in the middle of the back. I worked through the pattern of the yoke, did the raglan increases, and then separated the sleeve stitches from the body. All is good. But then one line completely threw me “The beginning of round is now at the right underarm.” What?!? How did the beginning of the round move? Is it a design choice or is there some logical reason that my brain can’t figure out?4. I love the Attune shawl and am eager to knit one up during the KAL, and would love to use a set of Spincycle yarns I have put aside for “The Shift”. But…I’m trying to figure out how you used your 3 different Spincycle yarns in your “Sample 2”. It looks like you switched off one yarn to another vs using all one skein and moving to the next. Would love to hear how you used your yarns to get that beautiful effect your obtained! Thank you 🙏🏼5. Andrea please help…… I have knit the Harlow worsted three times and I cannot get the cast on loose enough! The hat is the perfect size but the cast on is so tight even when I did it with the larger needle size for the pattern. What am I doing wrong? Twisted German Cast On: youtu.be/oWHRfvU5im0Attune Shawl:dreareneeknits.com/shop/attune-shawlravelry.com/patterns/library/attune-shawlAttune Shawl SAL/KAL Ravelry forum: ravelry.com/discuss/wool-n-spinning/topics/4261095Instagram Hashtag: #spintoknitATTUNERachel’s YouTube Video: youtube.com/live/jmYqOdGbLQg?feature=share&t=775DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 118 Andrea Mowry 2023-06-09 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. So listening to you talk about spinning finally got me hooked and I recently added dyeing and spinning to my wool related activities ☺️ Of course I would love to join the attune shawl kal with my own handspun. Working on my plying seems a prerequisite for that for where I am at my spinning now. So here is my question ( one out of many 😅): what do you do when a single breaks while plying???2. Hi Andrea! I love seeing all of your handspun FOs! As a fairly new spinner, I am struggling with what quantity of fiber I need to buy and spin in order to make full projects. For example, I love your handspun DRK Everyday cowl and Harlow hat that you showcased in episode 117- how much fiber would you recommend spinning for small to medium projects like those? Do yo have any tips for stretching a precious 4oz bump of hand-dyed fiber as a combo spin? sweetgeorgiayarns.com/2013/10/spinzilla-series-calculating-fibre-quantities-spinninghjsstudio.com/howmuchspin.htmljenjoycedesign.com/2019/08/23/spinning-for-a-project-part-oneStashBot App for Yardage3. I've been participating in Farmer Daughter's Fibers sock squad this year. I'm really enjoying it and now have a lot of partial skeins of fingering weight yarn and some unused mini skeins. Do you have any pattern recommendations for using up these or other scraps? They don't have to be socks! ;) Thanks!Embrace Cowl: ravelry.com/patterns/library/embrace-cowl-3dreareneeknits.com/shop/embrace-cowl4. I was wondering how you do your yarn organization on the steeking stitch column when you're going across those stitches to the other side? Does the colorwork yarn stay on the side and get picked up later, does it follow the column down? Like with the Shifty, or Stone Crop.. do you take the colorwork yarn across even with the MC rows? Thank you so much!!!!! I got hung up on this on the Shifty Cardigan haha5. Hi there!! I’m trying to learn quicker knitting techniques and wondered if you have tried a yarn tension ring? I think that’s what it’s called, it holds the yarn higher to pick it up? Thanks!! Love all you offer and i’ve learned soooo much watching your videos and tutorials. Attune Shawl:dreareneeknits.com/shop/attune-shawlravelry.com/patterns/library/attune-shawlAttune Shawl SAL/KAL Ravelry forum: ravelry.com/discuss/wool-n-spinning/topics/4261095Instagram Hashtag: #spintoknitATTUNERachel’s YouTube Video: youtube.com/live/jmYqOdGbLQg?feature=share&t=775I am wearing the DRK Everyday Cowl - dreareneeknits.com/shop/drk-everyday-cowlravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-cowlDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 117 Andrea Mowry 2023-06-02 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea, love your podcast, you are fabulous. This is a really random and probably really basic question. I am knitting your Inclinations Cowl. I am also a big life line fan! But, I put one in after a row 4 repeat in section one and for the first time in my life it failed me! For some reason I found it impossible to pick up what I think must have been the K1-b stitches from row 3. The stitches had all fallen way down in the life line so I had to try to fish them back up again through the correct loops. When I say it failed, I probably could have got them all back up, but it was taking a few minutes per stitch which was absolutely soul destroying! I had only done seven of the full row repeats, so I just frogged it. What I wanted to ask is whether there would be a better row to put my lifeline in. It would either have to be the row where we knit one below (first and third rows) or the return knit row. I usually put my lifelines in on a plain knit row, but do you think it would be better doing it on the knit one below row? Thank you for considering my question. I know it is a simple one, but I’m hoping not to get caught out again when I’m many more rows in.2. Hi Andrea, do you have any tips on avoiding that little gap created by the stretched stitch after a cable? Not sure if it only happens to me, and it's not that noticeable but it drives me craaazy. Also, if you're not cabling without a needle (which I prefer too unless it's a big braid!), Would you mind sharing which tool you use? I've been using a dpn but I'd be happy to invest in something more suitable. :) Thank you so much! Combination purl!3. I am trying to embrace some sweater knitting. At some point I have to stop knitting your shifts and cowls! I am currently working on the DRK everyday sweater. The top down construction and less seaming appeals to my “more knitting-less finishing” mentality. I have a question about the Barber cord accessories. I’ve heard you mention them and I picked a pair up while visiting your area…Portland, Maine. At Knitwit. Anyway, I was attempting to put all of the stitches onto the cords and it kept coming disconnected from my needle tip and the stitches were flying into nowhere mans land. The stress! Was I supposed to buy these in sizes? I am using an 8 needle. I love the idea of using these but now I am very wary. Any tips? Cheers Andrea.4. Hi, Andrea, I love, love, love that brimmed Harlow hat made from your handspun yarn that you wore in Episode 115! I was wondering how you achieved that consistent self-striping repeat? Do you spin the yarn first, then dye it to self-stripe in that way, or do you use dyed fleece? Or did you attach different colorways of yarn to achieve the striping? The color combination is very striking! Thanks for all the knitting wisdom you generously share with us each week! 🥰🙏 Best, Allison5. Hi Andrea! I really enjoy watching your YouTube video every Friday! Thank you so much! I’ve learned so many handy tips and tricks from you. I plan to knit Stria for your March to May knit along and I’m wondering about adding pockets. Will it be too challenging with the half fisherman’s rib stitch or maybe just won’t look good? I am knitting a sweater for my granddaughter where you stop and knit a strip for the pocket and then fold it in half and pick up the live stitches on the next row on the way back, purling….. ( you then need to sew up the sides of course….) would that maybe work? Thanks for your input, I won’t be too sad if pockets are not the best idea for that sweater….be brutally honest💕❤️Afterthought Heel Tutorial: youtu.be/t00Vosm62IwI am wearing the Old Port Hat - dreareneeknits.com/shop/old-port-hatravelry.com/patterns/library/old-port-hatAnd Embrace Cowl - dreareneeknits.com/shop/embrace-cowlravelry.com/patterns/library/embrace-cowl-3Also shown: Harlow hat -dreareneeknits.com/shop/harlow-worstedravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-worstedAnd DRK Everyday Cowl - dreareneeknits.com/shop/drk-everyday-cowlravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-cowlDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 116 Andrea Mowry 2023-05-26 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! Thank you so much for this podcast, I look forward to watching every Saturday morning! I’m curious, how do you organize your wips? Do you keep them in individual project bags? Do you print patterns or notes to keep with them, or keep it all in your project journal? And do you ever get to a point where you have too many wips to keep track? So curious about your systems!2. Thank you Andrea for another great video ❤️ Can I please ask you a question regarding knitting with 2 yarns. When you cake them up do you cake them together or do you use them off of separate cakes? Knitting with 2 yarns will be my next personal challenge & I’m curious to know your answer/opinion on this. Thank you once again for your time 🙏3. Hi Andrea! I love watching these every week :) I am a newer designer and I want to hear your take on something I've been thinking about a lot lately. Do you prefer to tech edit before or after a test knit? I'm currently testing a pattern that has already been tech edited, and I'm curious what the benefits might be to doing it the other way around - testing before tech editing. Do you have a preference? I can see how tech editing after a test knit might be more cost effective, but I am torn between that and wanting my test knitters to have the best testing experience they can and be able to knit from a "clean" pattern, so to speak. Curious to hear your thoughts on this!4. Do patterns include enough yarn for this or should extra yarn be purchased? Once the swatch is knitted and blocked, could you use that yarn in the project or will the blocking change the structure {? } of the yarn? Thank you!!5. 2 ply yarn is best for lace, 3 ply (or more) is best for cables. Is there a best number of plies for brioche?I am wearing The Traveler - ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-traveler-3dreareneeknits.com/shop/the-traveler6th Annual Spring KAL Challenge - Ravelry Forums: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4259936Join on Instagram with the hashtag: #oldporthatkalchallengeDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 115 Andrea Mowry 2023-05-19 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I am exciting for warmer weather and the change of the seasons. Like you, I live in a old character house. Since moving to this house 10 years ago, summer has brought on the challenge of moths in my closet. In past years I have lost store bought wool items because they have sat in my closet without wear all summer. When I eventually pull them out in the fall I find the telltale signs of moths and the items are ruined. Recently, I have started to knit my own sweaters and am worried that these precious items will meet the same demise. I have made sure that all my wool items are clean and washed at end of winter. Is this enough? Do you have any thoughts or advice? Thanks. Love your YouTube channel. I have learned so much from listening to everyone's questions. You have created such an amazing community! 2. Dear Andrea, first I want to say that your such an inspiration and always spread such a good mood! I was wondering if your planning on releasing more sweater pattern for children? I have a very young sister- she just tuned 8! I often knit her sweaters and already modified some adult sweaters for her, but its always a funky ride if the sweater will fit. I actually knit your rose cardigan for her when she was 5 ish. In no way do I want to suggest what you should design, just wanted to let you know that I would love many of your sweaters also for older children, because I often find it hart to find patterns for this age. Its often between young children and adults. Have a good day:)3. Hi Andrea! I'm plotting to knit the Harlow Hat Worsted, and use up some Spincycle Dreamstate left from the Throwover Cardi (which came out sooooo nicely I love it!) and I am trying to choose a beige to go with it as the second colour. I am not very experienced in Brioche, having only made a scarf for my niece at Christmas (which turned out well!) My question is about the yarn for Brioche. I heard you say that we knit looser in Brioche and I am already a bit of a loose knitter. The yarn I've found seems to have quite a loose twist. Its lovely and plump and soft (and 100% wool) but, will the softness and loose twist be a possible problem for Brioche? Should I look for a yarn that is twistier (is that a word? I like it!) and perhaps a bit more rustic / sticky? Or might my squishy yarn be ok? Thanks for any advice! Best wishes4. My son in law wants the new hoodie The Traveler. Beautiful by the way! How or could I change the shape at bottom to obviously make it a straight non cropped hoodie? He’s 41 in chest. I’m thinking to find the point where the stitch count is when increases on body are done? That would be my cast on??? I’m a faithful viewer and always learn much.❤️5. I'm knitting a steeked cardigan (Budding by Anna Johanna) for a beloved friend whose body type doesn't align with a straight size. With all the customizations they require (including a full bicep adjustment and potentially bust darts), I really want to make sure the item will fit BEFORE cutting the steek--the point of no return! As designed, the button band is quite narrow and appears to be the same width as the 7 steek stitches. If I have them try on the sweater pre-cutting, will it show a fit comparable to a buttoned up cardigan? Aside from blocking and measuring, is trying it on like this going to be informative of actual fit?I am wearing the DRK Everyday Sweater - ravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-sweaterdreareneeknits.com/shop/drk-everyday-sweaterAnd the Harlow Worsted hat (One color/handspun) -ravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-worsteddreareneeknits.com/shop/harlow-worstedDRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
Ill Knit If I Want To: Episode 114 (WITH SPECIAL GUEST!) Andrea Mowry 2023-05-12 | A big ol' thank you to my pal Rachel (Spincycle Yarns) for joining me in answering the questions this week!Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. After years of not being able to make any color choices for the Shifty sweater, I finally have my yarn and am so excited to finally get it on my needles. However, I would so appreciate your guidance on picking the right size! I am the gal with the 38” bra bust and 41” no-bra bust and have a 15” upper arm circumference. Which puts me somewhere between size 3 and 4 for the bust. I have noticed in the pattern that no ease is recommended, but I am worried that size 3 will be too snug. (especially with the upper arm circumference in mind) What is it about the yoke that no ease is the way to go? How can I fiddle with it to make it fit? Going for size 4 and rearrange some stitches into the arms? I’m grabbing for straws here, please help! Love you weekly podcast! It’s been so helpful!2. When doing gauge does it matter whether I use wood or metal needles I actually plan on knitting the sweater with metal needles but I need to purchase the needles. Thank goodness for yutube I would be lost without your great tutorials. 3. Swatches! I swatched for my first sweater and blocked it. I didn't get the correct gauge, so I will swatch again with a smaller needle. After you block a swatch, can you unravel it and use it for the next swatch or is it no longer usable because it has been blocked? Do people unravel blocked swatches and use them in their sweaters? (FYI, I am using 100% wool) Thank you!4. I am so inspired by you and look forward to your podcast every week! Thank you for bringing us your knowledge and smile every week! I am knitting my first raglan cardigan. I just realized I missed a raglan increase somewhere in the back section of the cardigan because I’m one stitch short! I looked and I can’t figure out where I missed it. Should I just sneak another increase in the middle of the back somewhere or what do you recommend? I imagine I might make this mistake again before this cardigan is complete! Thank you! 5. What quality of yarn do you recommend for brioche knitting. Woolen or SW, what should be considered in the different qualities of the yarn in general. Thanks for a lovely start to Friday mornings (for me) with youtube, coffee and knittingI am wearing the Inclinations Cowl - ravelry.com/patterns/library/inclinations-cowldreareneeknits.com/shop/inclinations-cowlDRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 113 Andrea Mowry 2023-05-05 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hey Andrea! I'm a new newsletter subscriber and LOVING it! I just made my first Weekender, but really don't love the garter bumps on the outside so made it inside out (with knit showing on body and purl showing on sleeves). I'm pretty happy with it, except how the "faux seam" center stitch looks on the knit side. It's just a ditch, whomp whomp. I went back in after finishing the sweater and made decorative "x" stitches in the ditch. Is there a way to get that cool faux center seam to show up when the knit side is showing? Or a different solution you've seen in all the ones others have made? Thanks for your time and creativity!2. Hi Andrea, I just finished my first of many DRK everyday sweater! The pattern was so well written and I want to do another. I am hoping to try my first colorwork sweater but am second guessing my skills. Should adventurous beginners like myself do a colorwork scarf or hat before casting on a colorwork sweater? I have done an intarsia cowl but it was small. Thank you! 3. Hi Andrea! I recently started spinning and am having so much fun exploring this wonderful fiber art. As I’m still very new and trying to work on a consistent spin and resulting fiber, I have yarn that is inconsistent in thickness, but I would still very much like to use in a project. Are any of your patterns forgiving enough to use with a beginner’s hand spun? I think I’ve heard you mention the Harlow hat, but curious if there are other patterns of yours that I could knit as well? Also, are there things you would caution a beginner spinner of when knitting with their handspun that is not “perfect”? Thanks so much!Shift Cowl: dreareneeknits.com/shop/the-shift-cowl4. My question is - What cast on do you use when casting on extra stitches that will later be picked up and knitted (as in necks and underarms)? I am knitting your 'So Faded Pint-Sized' sweater and, as I near the bottom of the sweater, am looking at the backward loop cast on stitches which were added at the centre of the front neckline and hoping that when I pick up those stitches there won't be holes because they look rather loose. Perhaps a different cast on would have been a better choice? 5. Hi Andrea:) I am a fairly new knitter, and taught myself mostly using tutorials. So my style of knitting is a hodge-podge of styles that worked for me and were getting the job done. Now that I am several months in and have several projects under my belt, I have noticed that my knitting style isn't efficient and is leading to hand cramps in my left hand. I seem to be doing the English throwing style but holding the yarn in my left hand!! Anyway, I have been trying to teach my self continental, I got the knit stitch down, but cant seem to get the tension correctly with the purl stitch. I am ending up with a tangled mess up yarn in my left hand with no tension. I am so frustrated, and my joy of knitting has now become me struggling with my stitches. Send help! Any tips would be so appreciated. Thank you so much. Norwegian Purl: youtu.be/T54apwPkrRgI am wearing the Traveler - dreareneeknits.com/shop/the-travelerravelry.com/patterns/library/the-traveler-3With my Rad Plaid Cowl - dreareneeknits.com/shop/rad-plaid-cowlravelry.com/patterns/library/rad-plaid-cowlDRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 112 Andrea Mowry 2023-04-28 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I’ve read about mixed experiences in traveling with knitting needles domestically or internationally. I know you've previously shared about having no issues traveling domestically but I would love to hear more about your recent retreat to Mexico since its an international location. Did you or any of the retreat attendees have issues with your knitting needles traveling to or from Mexico? Checked baggage or carry on? Any additional tips to share? 2. Hi Andrea! I love your weekly show. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us. I’ve been enjoying catching up on earlier episodes that are new to me. I’ve heard you talk about ways that you fit knitting time in by either knitting while walking or bringing your knitting bag with you around the house. But have you ever shared your favorite way to knit for a long time? Since knitting is your job, do you have long stretches of knitting in your days or do you break it up into smaller chunks? Do you have a favorite place or way to sit when you’re knitting for a long time? Do you watch movies, listen to music, prefer silence, etc.? Do you have tips on staying comfortable for long stretches of knitting? Thanks so much!3. Hi there! I’ve loved watching your channel and each week learn something new! Like a lot of people in the fiber world I started knitting at a young age then slowly fell down the fiber rabbit hole as I got older, with spinning being my go-to (besides knitting of course!) I have always wanted to spin a wooly sock yarn (something besides merino) I live in the Colorado mountains and love hand knit wooly socks for being outside. Do you have any recommendations on what fiber and/or fiber blends to spin that would hold up well for socks? Also how many plys would you recommend?simplecirc.com/ply-magazine/item/1120/the-sock-issue-23bookshop.org/p/books/the-fleece-fiber-sourcebook-more-than-200-fibers-from-animal-to-spun-yarn-carol-ekarius/12611428?ean=97816034271114. I heard you talk about fixing the length a top-down superwash sweater. What happens if you need to fix the length of a bottom up sweater? I knit my husband a bottom up, broken rib vest using a super wash acrylic/wool blend yarn. I blocked it, and he wore it a few times, but now it hangs off of his hips. Can’t I just unravel from bottom, and reknit a little narrower? Does the bottom up part make that trickier?5. Hi there! First of all, thank you so much for answering our questions every week. Your podcast is something I look forward to listening in to every Friday and I've learned so much! I have a question concerning my significant other and sizing patterns for him. He's a large man with very broad shoulders. To put it into more context, when I knit up a hat or mitts for him, 99% of the time I end up immediately having to figure out how to make the patterns larger for him since they often don't have an "XL" or "XXL" size given. I'm considering making him a sweater. Because of his shoulders, I'm not sure about selecting a size for him and measurements. He often has trouble even with standard everyday t-shirts because they get too tight in his shoulders and ends up having to go up a size just for this to accommodate. Should I include his shoulders when doing the chest measurement? Or is this sort of thing normally already accounted for in a pattern with sizes and I should only do a chest measurement without including his shoulders when measuring with the tape measure? Hope that makes sense. Thanks!I am wearing the Stonecrop - ravelry.com/patterns/library/stonecrop-pulloverdreareneeknits.com/shop/stonecrop-pulloverDRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Trine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
Knitting Tutorial: Getting stitches back on your needle from a provisional cast on Andrea Mowry 2023-04-28 | In this quick and impromptu little knitting video, I demonstrate how I get the stitches back on the needle from a provisional cast on- especially when they are being a bit tricky!
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 111 Andrea Mowry 2023-04-21 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea, love the new Traveler pattern. I just cast on a Comfort Fade Cardi, my second sweater for this year’s KAL. I really love the stockinette side of the yoke so far. If I want to keep the stockinette side as the right side, is there anything special I should be aware of? I know that picking up the sleeves would be on the opposite side. Anything else? Do you think the garter stitch collar could still work or would it be better to do it in stockinette to match?2. Hi Andrea, I will be starting a stranded knit cardigan pattern. I purchased 100% sport-weight wool as the main color (MC) and marled Superwash (SW) fingering-weight wool for the contrasting colors (CC). I wasn't able to find a marled 100% wool fiber in a sport-weight that I could afford so I had to buy the SW fingering-weight wool and will hold it double. My question is, will I encounter any issues while swatching, knitting, and blocking with the two different types of fiber, non-Superwash and Superwash? Is there any information I should know before beginning this project? Thank you for any suggestions that you may offer. And thank you for your never-ending and invaluable knowledge and wisdom! 3. Hi, Andrea! I've recently been reflecting on the hand knit sweaters I've made so far and which styles I like to wear the most. I realized I prefer a pretty tight crew neck or mock neck to a wider neckline, and I'm looking for some advice on how to adapt patterns to suit this preference. As an example, I recently finished knitting the stonecrop pullover, and while I'm mostly very pleased with the outcome, if I were to knit it again I would want a tighter neckline (see photo for how the neckline fits me. One thought I had would be to cast on fewer stitches for the neckband, and then do an increase round before starting the yoke chart, but I'm worried this would cause the fabric to bunch at the neck because I would be increasing too fast at the beginning of the yoke. If I did try to cast on fewer stitches for the neck would there be a better place to make up for the reduced stitch count at the top of the yoke so that the sweater still fits me in the bust? How would you approach this problem in a top down raglan sweater? Thank you! 4. Hi Andrea! I'm a newish, but avid knitter since the pandemic. You were one of the first designers I discovered and I love how understandable your patterns are for knitters of all levels! I love woolly wools and I feel pretty confident in determining gauge with non-superwash. However, I feel like superwash is a whole different ball game. I am currently knitting your Comfort Fade Cardi and I'm wondering if I should take into account the possibility that the length will grow when blocked as I decide how long to knit the body and sleeves. I knit and blocked a swatch but I feel like it underestimates how much a full garment can grow (I have been burned before!). Should I knit to a shorter length than specified if using superwash? Thanks!DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Trine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the The Traveler - coming out next week!Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
Knitting Tutorial: Making an I-cord Andrea Mowry 2023-04-18 | This knitting tutorial demonstrates how to make an I-cord, which is perfect for a drawstring!
Knitting Tutorial: German Short Rows Andrea Mowry 2023-04-17 | In this knitting tutorial, I demonstrate how to knit short rows using the German Short Row method.
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 110 Andrea Mowry 2023-04-14 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I'm also knitting the DRK Everyday Sweater. This is my first sweater. Last week you talked about the sleeves, which was very helpful, however I'm stuck on the yoke. How deep should it be? Does it need to be long enough down my arm past my armpit? I've knitted all 4 yoke increase sections and I think i need to add another inch before separating for the sleeves. I know I won't wear it if it's too close to my armpit. I recall you saying something recently about starting the sleeve 1 inch below your armpit. I don't remember which sweater you were talking about.2. GAUGE!! AHHH it really is a love-hate relationship :) I know you have talked about gauge so many times and there is information out there everywhere, but I need someone to break this down for me in simple terms. I am getting ready to knit “Sheltered” for my daughter. The gauge in the pattern is 18 sts & 27 rows on US 7. The yarn I am using states the gauge is 17 sts & 23 rows on US 8. The pattern and yarn are both worsted weight. I know gauge depends on the type of knitter you are, but where my confusion is, where do I start with needle size. Should I start with what the pattern states or since the gauge is 18 sts for the pattern and the yarn says 17 sts do I use a size US 7,8 or 9 to do my first swatch? I usually have to do more than one swatch, but I think it is because I am not sure which size needles to truly start with. Does this make any sense to you?? Also, I really enjoy your podcast each week! So happy to see that you are feeling better!3. Hi Andrea! I am knitting my first pair of DRK Everyday day socks and am quickly becoming obsessed and see many more pairs in my future. I would love to be able to make a pair for my husband. He has very large feet and is out of the typical size range for sock patterns. My question is, is there an easy way I could adapt the DRK Everyday sock pattern to accommodate a much larger foot? I know math is involved, but I’m not sure how to go about this. Thanks!4. Big fan of your podcast and patterns! I’m about to start my 5th shift cowl, and I was wondering if you could help me with a problem I’m having on my current ones knit out of Spin Cycle Dyed in the Wool. They often roll up at the i-cord bind off edge. Do you know why that is and how I could fix it? I’m generally a looser knitter but my gauge is pretty spot on. I’ve wet blocked them several times and pinned them out until fully dry, but they usually start rolling up after a few wears. Help! Is there anything I can do on current ones or the ones I knit moving forward? Thanks!5. I just finished my first brioche project and have caught the bug. I’ve seen some conflicting messaging on blocking brioche. Do you block and if so is there a special technique? Always look forward to your weekly Q&A. Thank you.DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Trine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the The Travel - coming out next week!Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 109 Andrea Mowry 2023-04-07 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hello. I’m hoping you can help my brain to stop hurting whenever I am trying to think about adding short rows to the upper back portion of my sweaters or anywhere I may want to add them on other projects. I’ve not seen where every designer does them consistently which begs the question and my headache…do you start doing them shorter to longer where you knit past the previous turn, resolve it, knit past it a few then turn, and so on; or do you knit the entire width first then each row after shorten the turns to then resolve all turns on the final row? Is there a design difference in the end? Why would you do one technique vs the other? Also, how does the math work when trying to figure out the depth and width of the short row section needed? Thanks! Signed, Haunted by Short Rows. 2. I-cord Edging Mistakes!!! Why is no one talking about this?? Am I crazy? Am I the only one who constantly drops her i chord stitches and puts them back wrong to then have a mess rows later so then I try to pull them out and fix on my own. Since a lot of your patterns have i chord edging (currently making the newest DRK everyday shawl ) do you have any videos? Is the a problem others have run into? Help! I don’t want to keep pulling out rows!youtube.com/watch?v=RWYlvcQJ5Sw3. Hi there, I’m currently knitting the Gib II for my boyfriend and I love it so much I’ve decided to plan one for myself. I was wondering since my bust is 40 inches, I have wide shoulder, and a long torso. Should I knit Gib I or II for myself? What are the big differences between the 2 patterns? I tried looking for the answer to this question in past videos but couldn’t find it. Any insight would be much helpful. Thanks so much! BTW, this is my first DRK KAL and i just love how clear your patterns are.4. I just knit the DRK Everyday sweater, loved the pattern, I knit a size two, which fit in the chest and everywhere else but the upper arms! I have large arms. I’m wondering what I can do to fix it, besides starting over and knitting a bigger size. I would be willing to do this but I do like how the body fits. Thanks for the help, love the show and all your patterns! Never enjoyed socks until the everday socks now I have pair on the needles always!5. Creases! When I wet-block a garment, I lay it flat to dry. I end up with creases along the sleeves and the sides of the body. It doesn't bother me much on the body, but the sleeve creases can drive me nuts. They eventually lessen with wear, but it'd be great if there's a trick to crease-less blocking. I guess I could blow up long balloons and put them in each sleeve, but is there a better way? Thanks for any help you can offer! I'm having so much fun knitting your designs!DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Trine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Throwover:ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-throwoverdreareneeknits.com/shop/the-throwoverAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 108 Andrea Mowry 2023-03-31 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi, Can you talk about how to adapt a sweater to short sleeves? And maybe which of your patterns that would work best in short serves? I live in southern Georgia, so we have a shorter season for wearing wool sweaters. And, I do really love the look of a short-sleeved sweater layered when I see it on a model! Thanks for your videos, I’m learning a lot! 🙂2. Hi Andrea, as I like to think of you as the Queen of Tubular Cast Ons/Offs, here's my question. I thought I'd ask before I run into same dilemma Bailey from the Copycat Stitch just shared on her podcast, when holding fingering and mohair together and using the Tubular Cast off - she said rather than a stretchy bind off it is cinching in at the bottom and arms. I'm getting ready to venture into holding this combo together but how do I prevent that from happening to me, the inexperienced knitter? Any advise is appreciated.3. My question this week is about your new DRK everyday cowl. Cowls are one of my favorite things to knit and I’m interested in doing the faded version, but I just want to do one strand of DK and I have 6 colors to use. Can I still do a fade with this pattern if I’m not holding two fingering weights together ?4. Hello :) thanks to you, i know that a 2 ply yarn is ideal for lace and a 3 or more ply yarn is ideal for cables. When a pattern uses cables And lace equally, how would you choose yarn? 5. I'm currently knitting the Birch Pullover and am about halfway through the body. I love, love, love how it's looking, but the 1/2 Fisherman's Rib stich is quite the time consumer. So, I'm thinking about knitting the sleeves in stockinette instead. The Weekender has sleeves in a different pattern and I enjoyed knitting that, so I feel like I have a decent sense of what it would be like. My question is: Is this a terrible idea?! If not, is there anything I should consider, like changes to the number of stiches, or any other pattern adjustments that might be needed? Thank you for continuing your weekly chat during your leave. I would have missed it terribly! :)DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Trine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Shifty pullover:ravelry.com/patterns/library/shifty-2dreareneeknits.com/shop/shiftyAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 107 Andrea Mowry 2023-03-24 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Attaching pockets - to block or not to block. The current project I'm asking about is a crochet project, but it will apply to my knitting projects as well. I'm crocheting a pocket scarf for a friend. I'm ready to attach the pockets. What would be a better practice, to block the scarf and pockets separately then attach or attach the pockets first then block the scarf. I'm worried if I block prior to attaching, I might block the pockets larger than the width of the scarf.2. I love your podcast and get weekly inspiration from your gorgeous makes and insightful answers to questions! Here is my question: When a designer instructs a knitter to knit, for example, 2 inches of ribbing, I have always assumed that meant 2 inches unstretched. But sometimes that amount of ribbing seems too skimpy when the garment is finished and worn! Any tips on how to deal with this? Thank you!3. Good Morning! I am a newer spinner and have completely gone down the rabbit hole. As much as I spin, I always end up making the same yarn: a two-ply DK weight with low twist. I just bought a lazy kate, so I can start doing three-plys, but I am wondering what I can do to increase my twist? I always worry my beautiful colors will turn into rope. The yarns I have been attracted to recently have a lot of twist! Is there a good video that can help? Thanks!Jillian Moreno’s Ply Class: craftsy.com/class/ply-to-knit-spin-the-yarn-you-really-want4. This has nothing to do with knitting!! But I know that you also do a lot of cooking and I’m curious how you manage your own nutrition needs with your kids and husband. I have three children who are in or approaching their teenage years, and we all have very different dietary needs and issues—we have two vegans, two meat eaters, three lactose intolerant dairy-free people and one hardcore cows milk guy. I could go on and on! I’m wondering if you have any tips for meeting everyone’s needs without cooking multiple meals at every meal!! Thank you!!Downshiftology: @downshiftology5. Hi Andrea! I have been a long time fan of your patterns and knit a bunch of them (from several sweaters to a number of shawls and even some accessories). In the last couple weeks I just binge watched all your I'll Knit If I Want To episodes and really enjoyed them. My question for you is, I am 38 weeks pregnant and hoping to join the March to May knit along, I got your Weekender pattern recently and thought it would be a good one with a more relaxed fit, in your opinion should I knit the pattern based on my pre pregnancy bust or go with what I am at the moment? I'm not a super fast knitter, and I'm not sure how much time I'll have ones this little guy makes his debut, but I want to try. Thoughts? 6. Where did the name Drea Renee Knits come from? What is the inspiration and story behind your company name?DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the DRK Everyday Cowl:dreareneeknits.com/shop/big-cozy-cardiravelry.com/patterns/library/big-cozy-cardiAnd the Birch Pullover: dreareneeknits.com/shop/birch-pulloverravelry.com/patterns/library/birch-pullover-2Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
Knitting Tutorial: Managing color changes with a slipped stitch edge Andrea Mowry 2023-03-21 | This knitting tutorial demonstrates how I like to manage my edges when adding in a new color, and continuing to use more than one color when my project has a slipped stitch edge. Enjoy!
Knitting tutorial: Seaming the DRK Everyday Cowl Andrea Mowry 2023-03-21 | In this knitting tutorial, I demonstrate how I like to seam the DRK Everyday Cowl using the mattress stitch. Enjoy!
Knitting Tutorial: Managing color changes with an I-cord edge Andrea Mowry 2023-03-21 | This knitting tutorial demonstrates how I like to manage my edges when adding in a new color, and continuing to use more than one color when the edge of my project has an I-cord. Enjoy!
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 106 Andrea Mowry 2023-03-17 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Could you speak some about how to measure your body for the correct yoke depth - and how/where yoke depth is measured on a sweater, both yoked and raglan? I recently knit a raglan that doesn't fit well in the yoke area and it pulls the collar down. To make sure I pick patterns and sizes that better fit me, I am looking for guidance. Does yoke depth need to include any measurement in the armpit, or just to the front of the arm pit? Should my yoke front and yoke back "touch" beneath my arm pit? And where should I start the measurement from.. collarbone? Thanks for your help! 2. Hi Andrea, I've been wanting to knit your Alpenglow for a while and finally cast on today! However, I am not a big fan of mosaic knitting. Is it ok to knit the mosaic sections of the sweater in stranded colorwork (same as the yoke) or would that somehow change the overall appearance for the worse? Thank you so much!3. You have mentioned that you have a short torso. I also have a very short torso and actually a short everything at 5'0". :D. I was curious, when you list the suggested body lengths in your patterns, do you base that on how the original design fit on your size and then you grade up/down for other sizes? Or do you use some kind of industry standard? 4. I have a spinning question for you. I know we need to let our singles rest for at least 24 hours before we ply them to let the twist set. Should we let our plied yarns rest too? I recently made my first 3-ply yarn (yay!) but over twisted the heck out of it (boo!), ha! I let the singles rest but as soon as I finished plying, I put the yarn into a warm bath to soak. Would it have been better to let it rest before soaking it? I know the warm water helps relax the yarn into the twist so was it actually better to bathe it immediately? I’ve read tons of spinning books and so far none of them have mentioned letting your plied yarn rest. What’s the best thing to do?!? 5. When your Rose Cardigan pattern came out (March 2018), I proclaimed, to my knitting friends, that it may just be the most beautiful sweater I have ever seen. I immediately purchased the pattern. Then, for one reason or another, never took it any further. I have watched these episodes from the beginning - so 100 episodes now - and I can’t recall you ever wearing the Rose Cardigan. Is there any reason? Is it more difficult to style? I am back to wanting this sweater in my wardrobe and, since February is my birthday month, thinking I’d splurge on a kit from La Bien Aimée. In looking at the pages of the pattern, I feel a bit overwhelmed. Any tips for getting started? Thank you! Episode 84: youtu.be/0X5TXlv_YA4Matcha Latte Recipe: whatgreatgrandmaate.com/dairy-free-matcha-latte-videoDRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Metamorphic:dreareneeknits.com/shop/metamorphicravelry.com/patterns/library/metamorphic-2And the Harlow Hat:dreareneeknits.com/shop/harlow-hatravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-9Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 105 Andrea Mowry 2023-03-10 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I am a very loose continental knitter and often have to go down two or three needle sizes to meet gauge when I swatch. I often find though that when I start to knit the actual garment, I’m even looser than my swatch and I’m still not meeting gauge, so all my sweaters have been too big. For example if gauge is 5 stitches per inch, I’m knitting at 4 stitches per inch. I was wondering if using a thicker/thinner yarn weight would have any affect on my gauge as well as going down in needle size. Like if the pattern calls for DK, I use a fingering weight instead to meet gauge (in this example 5 stitches per inch). Thank you!2. I’ve only been a newsletter subscriber for a few months. I was wondering if there is somewhere I can view past issues, to see the features and tips, but especially the extras like book recommendations and recipes etc. You have led me to some interesting discoveries and I’m curious as what I missed from earlier newsletters. I’m sure they are just as inspiring as current content! Thank you and congratulations on 100 episodes and the return of good health!3. I have a question about measuring our bodies to figure out sizing for hand-mades. Usually, a knitting pattern will provide a full bust measurement for a finished sweater. I recently noticed that my full bust measurement differs depending on if I wear a bra or not! (38" with a bra, 41" without a bra) Is this ever talked about? I am now a little confused what my reference point should be. 38"?41"? The middle of those two? Or do I simply get an idea of how I like a sweater to fit my body, taking positive ease into account, etc. I would love to hear your thoughts!4. I have a question regarding the Weekender. I am using a mill dyed yarn (plymouth yarn homestead tweed ). All yarn is from the same batch as indicted on the label. Can l knit the whole skein or should l intermingle like we do for hand dyed yarns? And, l am thinking l carry the yarn on the “knit side” of my work as the “purl side” will be worn facing the rightside/outside once completed. 5. The mysterious shortening sleeves Dear Andrea, First, I love your podcast, it feels like hanging out with a friend that is as hooked to knitting as myself. Thank you also for the 100 episode discount, I used to buy the Gib II to knit a jumper for my partner. My question is linked to this. I have knitted him 5 jumpers already, he likes them and wears them all winter, however, as he wears them, the sleeves (especially) tend to shorten, a lot!! So much that I had to add some extra cm to them, luckily I always knit the sleeves top-down… The last time I elongated one of the jumpers’ sleeves I realised that I had already elongated them before!! What on earth happened? It is not a problem of washing and blocking, the sleeves are fine when wears the jumpers in the beginning, and I don’t have the same issue with my jumpers, my only explanation is that as he wants the jumpers to be quite fitted this could be affecting the length over time. Is this a thing that has happened to you or do you know other knitters that have had a similar issue? DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Big Cozy Cardi:dreareneeknits.com/shop/big-cozy-cardiravelry.com/patterns/library/big-cozy-cardiAnd the Degen Knit hat: shop.degen.us/collections/accessories/products/ebbets-field-vintage-felt-capAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 104 Andrea Mowry 2023-03-03 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Why in your DRK EVERYDAY SOCKS did you decide to rib/pattern the sole of the foot? I, as well as many others, have always been told to keep the sole in stockinette because it's so sensitive. Love the pattern and its cushyness. DRK Everyday Socks: ravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-socks2. Hi Andrea! I love watching your podcast each week and learn so much from you. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and joy. This is a really random question but I can’t help noticing you have many beautiful tattoos - Are any of them inspired by knitting? I’ve always wanted to get a tattoo related to my love of fiber arts but haven’t found the right tattoo design yet. Just love seeing how people express themselves in different ways and tattoos are one of those mediums! 3. I’ve never used Suri and am working on the Big Cozy Cardi (love it). I’m wondering how I should block when finished. Do I need to do something different because of the difference in fibers? I’m terrified that the Suri will bleed into the wool if I put the Cardi in water to soak but am also not sure how to go about steaming either or if that’s OK to do with Suri. Help?4. Hi Andrea! I watch your videos every week and I'm a huge fan! My question is about knitting sweater sleeves. Every time I knit sleeves, I end up having to swing the body of the sweater around, since it gets twisted when knitting sleeves in the round. Either that, or let my sleeves get twisted. Is there a better way to do this? This is complicated even more when knitting colorway in sleeves. Any suggestions on how to make sleeve knitting less annoying?5. I just finished my beautiful pink Fizz in a cream Dk ,blocked it am ready to put it on for pictures and I have clear, very clear differences in the skeins that I could not see as I knit it together! Can I soak in a tea water or something to correct this?DRK March to May KAL - Ravelry Forums: Sweaters: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247141Shawls: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4247142Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKMARCH2MAYKAL23DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Stria Cardigan:dreareneeknits.com/shop/stria-cardiganravelry.com/patterns/library/stria-3Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 103 Andrea Mowry 2023-02-24 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. Hello there! So, I am already 6 inches into my Shiftigan sweater.... which is beautiful. I bought Magpie's Dyed in the Skein and Spincycle DITW for my creation. However... I just read somewhere that I should not steek with Superwash and I just found out that Magpie's DITS is Superwash! Oh no. This is my first steek, but I am up for the challenge. I've researched it can be done and have found another project that used the exact same yarn in Ravelry. I guess I just wanted to ask your opinion because I know you are very familiar with these brands of yarn and what they can do. Should I abort and use something else or carry on? What would Andrea do? :). Thanks so much!2. Hi Andrea! Congratulations on the 100th episode. Recently I saw lots of posts in social media about Vogue Knitting Live, and I have a question. I started knitting just before the pandemic. I use Ravelry and Instagram but don't know many knitter's in real life. Do you have any tips? This year I want to make more knitting friends, but I have two small children (age 4 and 2), so in-person knit nights are a bit tricky. I recently I reached out to and met up with a local knitter / designer via Instagram. I had a great time, but now I'm questioning myself maybe I sounded like a stalker! Should I message her to arrange another meet up or should I just wait for her to get in touch?? I don't know! Pandemic and early motherhood meant I lost a bit of social skills - please help! 3. Hi Andrea, can you talk a bit about washing knits for kids? My kiddo is 2 and I love to knit for him and I don't want to always be "managing" his wardrobe based on the activity of the hour. It's more important to me that he wear and enjoy his sweaters than they stay immaculate. And apple sauce, for example, is actually really hard to get out of knitted yarn (just soaking with no agitation doesn't cut it). Do you have any recommendations for cleaning knits that kids have gotten food, paint, or other fun things in?4. I'm just starting to knit sweaters. I decided to start with seemed sweaters. Do you have hints or tools that can help with the rolled edges of stockinet stitches. I find this frustrating to keep the side seams unrolled to find the stitch to sew together. Also what method do you use to connect a new ball of yarn? Thank you so much. I love your youtube channel. 5. I’ve discovered that my best fitting sweaters have a finished bust of 50”. The problem is a lot of the items I want to knit have a finished bust of 48” or 52”. Is there an easy way to modify these to fit me? I’m sure it involves math and swatches but my brain just can’t understand it. Help!!!DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing the Douglas Cardi:dreareneeknits.com/shop/douglas-cardiravelry.com/patterns/library/douglas-cardiAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 102 Andrea Mowry 2023-02-17 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I really love knitting cables and usually pre-blocked the cables look nicely defined and puffy, but after blocking by soaking, shaping, then laying flat, the cable loose their definition and are rather flat. Do you have any suggestions for remedying this or tips for future cable projects?2. Hey Andrea, I just finished a sweater with big bold stripes using a super wash DK. One of the colors, a red, bled onto the natural colored stripe and another lighter colored stripe. I soaked it in cool water and even used a color catcher to block it and the water was pretty clear when I squeezed it out. Do you have any suggestions on how to get the red splotches out of the lighter colors and how to avoid colors bleeding in the future? 3. HI I'm wondering about gauge! Isn't everyone. if I need to go up or down a needle size how does this affect the meterage of yarn required for the garment. Essentially will using larger or smaller needles mean I need more or less yarn?4. My question is regarding socks : while I follow the patterns (length of the foot minus 5 or 6 cm to allow for the toes), they seem to elongate with time and end up loose on my feet. Is it blocking? is it the yarn? is it measurements? Thank you in advance for considering my question and for any answer you may have! PS: I hope you are getting all the rest you need to feel your best self again. Take good care5. I recently knit your Curio socks as my second pair of socks ever and I love the fun stripes! I knit the first sock and it was too big so I decided to knit the next size down. That fit was better. So I knit a third to match the second and that one came out a little bit smaller! My gauge must have tightened up between the 2nd and 3rd sock. I don't feel like knitting up a 4th sock right now so I'm wearing the 2nd and 3rd together since they are close enough. Do you have tips for getting consistent gauge between socks? Also, can I unravel the 1st ill-fitting sock if I've already weaved in the ends? Loved learning the afterthought heel!DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing The Weekender:ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-weekender-5dreareneeknits.com/shop/the-weekenderAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 101 Andrea Mowry 2023-02-10 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I recently explained to a non-knitter friend about gauge swatches and blocking -- and she totally stumped me with her question. She asked, since a yarn can grow when it's blocked and gauge swatches can be imperfect when estimating how much a yarn can change when blocked, why we don't soak yarn before knitting with it. Wouldn't that give a better understanding of the final state of the yarn while knitting versus waiting until the end? 2. Some of my favorite patterns of your are your "moon" series -- moonwhistle, moonwake (and I see a spring moon too!). I wondered if you had a moon affinity or if this naming cadence was just a coincidence?3. I've been wanting to learn to spin for a while and watching your Friday episodes inspired me to go for it! I finally took a private spinning lesson over the holidays and am going to rent a wheel to practice before committing to purchasing a wheel. I know it is different for everyone, but curious to know how long did it take you to get to a level of consistency in your spinning so that you spun a yarn that you could actually use? And at what point did you start to learn different ways of spinning and plying?4. I am a recent designer and just wondering if there is a thing as re-publishing a pattern in a different yarn? My two patterns I have released the yarn is now 100% discontinued. I would love to redu them in readily available yarn but I don't know if that is a thing? 5. Hi Andrea! I am joining in on the Weekender spin it to knit it challenge and I am so grateful that you threw this challenge out there! I have started spinning again after a ten year hiatus and I am just having the time of my life! I am so glad I challenged myself to become a better spinner so thanks for the little kick to get going again :) Would you mind sharing a bit about your spinning story? How you got started, what was the catalyst that drew you to make your own yarn, what projects you made with those first overspun skeins of yarn (or maybe you were a pro right of the gates!). Also, what helped you take your spinning to the next level? Was it a class, YouTube video, or did you just spin a lot? You've mentioned several books in past episodes so I've been reading and learning a lot but I'm curious what helped you get from a beginner level. Thank you so much again for all the inspiration!!DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalTrine Weekender KAL: spincycleyarns.com/pages/trine-weekender-kalI am wearing Gib:ravelry.com/patterns/library/gib-idreareneeknits.com/shop/gib-for-herAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: The 100th Episode! Andrea Mowry 2023-02-03 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!Sign up for my newsletter here: Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsrIn this week’s episode we cover:1. I'm getting ready to make your Daydreamer sweater and am really having fun planning it out. I've already bought the pattern and some fingering weight Rambouillet, but I haven't decided what to hold with the Rambouillet yet. I found some really beautiful Suri alpaca that I would love to use, but am concerned it won't hold its shape as well as mohair. I know you've mentioned Suri as a substitute for mohair before in things like shawls, but would you recommend it in a sweater like the Daydreamer where slipperiness could be an issue? 2. When spinning, my right thumb keeps getting very sore. Does that happen to you, too/do you think that's normal? Or is it more likely that I'm drafting improperly? I've been defaulting to long draw because it's easier on my hands but I'd like to spin worsted a bit more too. 3. Hi Andrea! I was wondering if you would recommend using FDF's Foxy Lady (70% superwash merino & 30% silk, 428 yards/100g) for shawls? I know that silk is drapey and doesn't always bounce back when stretched, but I am wondering if this blend could work? Thank you! 4. Hello Andrea, your podcast is a delight, and I'm learning so much useful things thanks to you! I've got a question about blocking: I hear (and read) on the internet that blocking will smooth out uneven stitches. But in my case, it never does! I'm wondering if there's a magic step I'm missing or a secret technique I'm not aware of to help the stitches become more relaxed and even. Thank you for your help!5. I have been starting to dabble in spinning. I have some plain white/cream roving from a local sheep farmer. I don't even know the breed and didn't think to ask way back when I bought it. It is a more rustic roving and I am not sure if I will be able to wear it next to skin. I have some other softer merino roving I plan to spin. Do you think I could ply the merino single with a single of the rustic wool? Would that help soften it up? Is it ok to ply different breeds or even different fiber together? I don't have a blending board yet, so I can't blend it with different fibers.DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Alpenglow:ravelry.com/patterns/library/alpenglow-idreareneeknits.com/shop/alpenglow-iAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 99 Andrea Mowry 2023-01-27 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. After knitting loads of baby and child sweaters, where the stakes are very low, I’m finally attempting sweaters for myself and am probably too anxious about fit. 🤦♀️ The row gauge of my blocked swatch is off by one stitch from the pattern designer’s gauge. Should I be concerned that my yoke will be too short, or can I count on everything working out because the sweater will hang on my body and stretch the rows to some degree? If I do need to make adjustments to lengthen the yoke, how can I do that on a bottom-up cardigan? Thank you so much for sharing your sweetness, expertise, and inspiration every week!!! I can’t tell you how much I’ve grown as a knitter since tuning in. / I'm pretty good at making a gauge swatch (I do like my sweaters to actually fit after I knit them), and I'll even go back and try another needle if the first swatch doesn't give me enough information. That said, I am rarely able to meet row gauge AND stitch gauge. I've been focusing on stitch gauge and then making sure rows match schematic measurements more than maybe row-by-row instructions in the pattern (trying to take into account how blocking may change things). Is this the way to go? What kinds of patterns would crash and burn if I were too far off on row gauge, but had met stitch gauge?2. Do you have recommendations for removing pills on your hand knits? I made your So Faded sweater (my first sweater and I love it!) and it’s developed some pills over time that I’d like to remove. I’ve seen those small sweater combs (blocks of wood with mesh screens), pumice/sweater stones, sweater brushes, and of course little electric and battery operated shavers. Do you have a preferred method or tool that you like to use? I’m feeling overwhelmed with choices and don’t want to ruin all my hard work! Gleener: gleener.comCocoknits: cocoknits.com/collections/tools/products/fuzz-off-comb3. Thank you so much for your podcast, you bring so much joy to my Friday mornings! I so look forward to sharing a cup of coffee with you and chatting about knitting every Friday morning. My question is about how you select colors for your projects. I'm knitting the Cinnabar shawl and have been really struggling with the color selection. I splurged on some Spincycle nocturne in witching hour but can't find a pairing I like. I have a earth toned/moody wardrobe in general and the Spincycle fits right in but when I pair it with grey it's too low contrast and white is too high contrast I think (but better than the grey) and I'm just nervous about trying a different color at this point since I've been dithering for months. I'm also deeply invested in this because I'm spinning for the Attune shawl as well. It's my first big spin-to-knit project and I want to pair my home spun with a ready to knit yarn but how do I decide what color to go with for the bought yarn? 4. I have been spinning for a year and am part of a fibre club here in Victoria, Australia, where each month I receive a delicious braid of hand dyed fibre. I am planning to knit up quite a few of your patterns with these braids, including the Inclinations Shawl. Each braid, however, is a different blend of fibres. All include an animal, mainly sheep, fibre, but some are blended with silk and cashmere, others with tencel or agave... is it OK to combine skeins of different fibres into one project or will it affect the structure of the shawl? 5. Thanks for sharing these videos, I love learning about your techniques and design process. My question is about crewneck and boatneck sweaters. I love to wear my handknit sweaters, but sometimes it's hard to tell the back from the front. One day, I put on a freshly blocked new sweater and thought the neckline felt a little uncomfortable. I later discovered that I had been wearing it backwards all day. Do you do anything special on your sweaters to help you tell the back from the front? ShelliCan tags: shellican.com/products/this-is-the-back-labels-6-pack-ivoryDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing the Attune Shawl:dreareneeknits.com/shop/attune-shawlravelry.com/patterns/library/attune-shawlAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 98 Andrea Mowry 2023-01-20 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea, I love your new Shiftigan cardigan and am hoping to make it for my daughter. I was wondering why you chose fingering weight yarns as possible substitutions for the sport weight Spincycle Dyed in the Wool? Could you elaborate on this? Per your recommendation, I just bought Clara Parke's The Knitter's Book of Yarn, but haven't gotten very far into it yet. Hoping to learn a little more about yarn structure and weights. I learn a lot from you and love your videos!2. Hi Andrea! I have decided to undo a jumper I finished last year (this seems to be called 'frogging' although this amuses me and I don't know why it is called that!!) anyway, I am less amused about having to undo an entire jumper but, it needs to be done. I would be really grateful if you could talk us through how to approach this. Particularly in relation to how to deal with a mountain of crinkly yarn before it gets all tangled. I don't have a niddy noddy (another knitting reference that amuses me!) but saw a video where a lady used her hand and her foot to wind the yarn around. This looked tricky! As I am undoing, should I try to wind as I go or pile it all loose into a big bag perhaps and then deal with it? Thank you so much for any advice :) 3. Hi Andrea, first of all, I want to say I love your patterns. Each one challenges me and makes me a better knitter. I am about to cast on Ochre Moss. With this pattern, I start knitting the sleeves from the bottom up. Because of sensory issues, I prefer shorter sleeves (usually 3/4 usually as I don't like things on my wrist.) My question is, if I wanted to make sleeves shorter, how would I modify the pattern so that I start with the correct number of stitches for a shorter sleeve? Any tips and tricks would be beneficial! Ochre Moss pattern: dreareneeknits.com/shop/ochre-mos4. Short rows. I understand the purpose of them and love that they make our garments more comfortable. Does it matter where they are added? You mentioned with the Shiftigan that the short rows are in the ribbing of the collar and I’ve knitted short rows after the ribbing or after a colorwork yoke. Is it that, the pattern design/elements really inform where the short rows should be?5. Hi Andrea! Watching your podcast has inspired me to start spinning! Now I have 3 full bobbing of overspun yarn lol and I’m not sure what to do next, do I ply? Or wash the yarn? Or transfer to a different bobbin? Can you go over the order of operations for me? Thank you for sharing your knowledge.Bonus Question: Hi Andrea In your last episode (#97) you had a small scale on your desk that you moved to your other desk at the beginning of the episode. Is that scale for measuring yarn? Can you give me information so I can find one. Looks like a perfect size for measuring a skein of yarn.Bonus Question: Would you please tell me what pattern that GORGEOUS orange skirt that you’re wearing with the Shifty Cardigan?!?! Please please please say it’s something you made, that orange AND those pockets AND the shape!! It’s so perfect!sewliberated.com/products/estuary-skirt-digital-sewing-patternTinsel Mitts: dreareneeknits.com/shop/tinsel-mitts-3-styles-5-sizes?category=mittensDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Nurtured:dreareneeknits.com/shop/nurturedravelry.com/patterns/library/nurturedAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 97 Andrea Mowry 2023-01-13 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. I’m hoping you can give me some guidance about swatching. I’m planning to make a Weekender, and I’ve tried a few yarn and needle combos. In the yarn I like best (a worsted wool/alpaca blend), I had to go down to a 4.5mm to get gauge, even though the pattern calls for a 5.5mm needle. I like the fabric I made with my swatch. Is it possible to change needle sizes too much when getting gauge? Or am I OK as long as my gauge matches the pattern and I like my fabric? Thank you!2. You have mentioned before that you soak your knitted garments in warm or even hot water when washing or blocking them. Is this safe for even non superwash garments? How warm or hot do you let the water get? Can you talk more about the benefits of doing high temp water? Is it just about get them cleaner or is it about letting the yarn bloom bloom more? Is there any yarn content that you would only do cool water with? 3. Heeey Andrea, I hope you are feeling a little better and that you can rest! I am very grateful that you keep making videos and I look forward every week to what news you will teach us next. I have a question about your pattern that just came out/is coming out soon, the Shifty Cardigan. I saw it that the cardigan has a 'higher' neck. I'm more of a v-neck fan myself, but, being the adventurous newbie that I am, I have no idea how to change the neck of a cardigan. Certainly not a cardigan that you have to stab. Do you have any tips? Thank you very much in advance and I hope you have a nice day!4. I am wondering what the etiquette/legality is regarding selling your knit FOs as a side project. Is this only OK if you designed the pattern of the knit? Or is it OK to knit up a pattern that someone else designed and then sell the FO without their consent/sharing the profit? Would never want to infringe upon a copyright or break community etiquette, but it would be a fun little side hustle to sell some fun knit items on etsy/at farmers markets 5. Hi Andrea! I recently made a top-down circular yoke sweater that has little to no intended ease and find it so uncomfortable. It's beautiful, but the sleeves are too snug and pull the rest of the sweater into unnatural positions, no matter how aggressively I block. Would you suggest re-knitting the sleeves at a larger gauge? I don't have any spare yarn so would I loose some length? I'm not averse to frogging entirely, I've heard people say circular yokes can be tricky to fit - maybe they're just not for me.Check out: youtube.com/@stitchesandstarlightDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Shiftigan:ravelry.com/patterns/library/shiftigandreareneeknits.com/shop/shiftiganAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 96 Andrea Mowry 2023-01-06 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Thank you for doing these videos, I learn so much and look forward to them every week! I've recently begun building up a 'knitting library'. Could you share any of your most used reference books? Anything you'd recommend for anyone's library as a good source of information, tricks, and tips?schoolhousepress.com/knitting-without-tears.htmlschoolhousepress.com/knitting-from-the-top.htmlschoolhousepress.com/first-treasury-of-knitting-patterns.htmlschoolhousepress.com/second-treasury-of-knitting-patterns.htmlbookshop.org/p/books/knitting-fresh-brioche-creating-two-color-twists-turns-nancy-marchant/9081285?ean=9781936096770bookshop.org/p/books/the-knitter-s-book-of-yarn-the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-using-and-enjoying-yarn-clara-parkes/8731252?ean=9780307352163bookshop.org/p/books/alterknit-stitch-dictionary-200-modern-knitting-motifs-andrea-rangel/17212487?ean=9781632505538bookshop.org/p/books/the-knitting-all-around-stitch-dictionary-150-new-stitch-patterns-to-knit-top-down-bottom-up-back-and-forth-in-the-round-wendy-bernard/10205595?ean=97816176919592. Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. I have a swatching question. Once you have determined your gauge with a particular yarn and needle size, do you create a new swatch when starting a new project if you're using the same yarn and the gauge required is the same? Do you assume that you'll continue to knit with the same gauge using the same yarn even if the colour of the yarn is different? 3. Hi Andrea, Every wednesday is my day off and I enjoy watching your video's while taking some time to knit and relax. I have never done brioche and I am thinking of trying this for the first time. I have knitted a lot of your patterns and I love the clear instructions. So what pattern of yours would you advice for a novice brioche knitter? Thank you from The Netherlands!Harlow Hat:ravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-9ravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-worsted4. Hello! I look forward to every Friday for your podcast, thank you so much for continuing while also on medical leave. I really hope this will give you a well-deserved break. My question is about pockets. I recently made Winters Beach cardi, and I love many of your patterns have pockets! I love pockets!! Do you have any tips for fortifying the pockets? I tend to put rather a lot of random stuff including my phone in pockets and am worried the yarn will stretch, snap or it'll sag. Thank you in advance! 5.Hi Andrea! I was about to cast on The Throwback cardi, feeling all excited, and then noticed that the collar is picked up from the cast on edge later.... could you recommend a cast on method that would be best for going back and picking up stitches later? My go-to is Twisted German cast-on but can do others! What would look best or be easiest for subsequent picking up of stitches? Thank you very much :)Check out: youtube.com/@stitchesandstarlight On instagram as @tanglesandstarlightDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Ginny:ravelry.com/patterns/library/ginnydreareneeknits.com/shop/ginnyAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 95 Andrea Mowry 2022-12-30 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! Kind of an extra question but I was wondering what are your go-to/favorite gluten-free meals and recipes! I just started GF and sometimes feel stuck figuring out what to make or eat. Thanks so much!! I always look forward to your Friday videosMeals: daniellewalker.comVegetarian Meals: minimalistbaker.comBaking: theloopywhisk.com2. During podcast episode 92 (youtu.be/g_U8QPVk4_I) you mentioned that you no longer need to measure socks you knit for yourself because you know how many rows you need to knit before beginning the heel shaping-you mentioned 60 I think. My question is, do you use a row counter every time you knit socks? Or do you use lay the sock flat and count the rows? 3. I'm wondering if you can talk about test knitting. I'm an experienced knitter, but I've never test knit before, and I think I'd like to try it. What are your expectations of your test knitters, where do they typically get their yarn, and what kind of feedback do you find most valuable? 4. I love your podcast. It’s like casually chatting with a friend and I have learned so much. Please could you talk about a “sweater quantity “ of yarn? It is a term used so much but I’m not actually sure what that amount might be. Thanks 5. Hi! I love watching your podcast! My question is bind offs for toe up socks, I’m never happy with how Jenny’s surprisingly stretchy bind off looks. Would a tubular bind off be just as stretchy/is it worth the effort to do on a sock? Are there any other bind offs you would suggest trying? Bonus Question: I have recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto's. I was wondering if you could recommend a place for some informative information. I am going through Menopause as well and suffered from a bad bout of Covid in Jan 2022. I have major hair loss and dry skin. I’m trying to get a handle on my hair. You are the only person that speaks about this and thought you may be able to direct me. I hope you rest and get back to your best self. P.s. I am knitter and going to be trying the drk everyday sock.😉Check out: youtube.com/@stitchesandstarlightDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Wool & Honey:ravelry.com/patterns/library/wool--honeydreareneeknits.com/shop/wool-honeyAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 94 Andrea Mowry 2022-12-24 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! Thanks for spending time with us! Please prioritize your health and I hope that you heal fully. My question is about blocking. I have seen on two sweaters I love that blocking has made them stretch out and the sleeves are much wider than I ever want them to be. Before blocking, they were the perfect length and hugged me just the way I like. I wear my sweaters oversized so I will often knit up one size and the blocking just makes them even more oversized. I thought you were supposed to be able to manipulate the shape of your FOs through blocking but I kind of dislike/fear the process now. Am I misunderstanding what blocking should/can do? Thanks so much!2. Kudos for making your health and family a priority. That said, I’m wondering whether there will be a March to May KAL in 2023? I had a lot of fun last year and have several of your sweater patterns that I’d love to make with the support of a group. Also, I’ve been looking forward to the Shiftigan release. Can you give us any hints about timing or the pattern itself, such as whether it will be steeked? 3. Hi Andrea, As the new year approaches, I'm planning my makers year and wanting to make sure I have time in my knitting calendar for all of the DRK events. I know you've mentioned them in the past, but I wondered if you could just summarize your recurring events that we might plan for in 2023? Thanks! PS - I hope your time off is healing. I'm keeping you in my prayers.4. Hi Andrea! Sort of off-topic, but I'm curious if you have any recommendations for a lanolin-based hand lotion? My hands get destroyed by all of the cleaning and scrubbing I have to do every day. I've been on the hunt for a delicious lanolin lotion and am not sure where to start. I hope you have a very happy holiday season with your family and that you're able to rest and take care of yourself. Thank you!!Wandering Flock Body Balm: tinyurl.com/mtdvxnu4Utopia: motherknitter.com/shop/hand-cream-by-utopia-bath5. I'm so happy you're going to be continuing your podcast through your medical leave. It's one of my favorite parts of the week! That said, please take lots of care of yourself, and if the podcast ever gets in the way of your healing, always put yourself first! Onto my question, I was curious about how people make those cute fringed swatches. I know that it's from lazy swatching in the round by carrying the yarn in back. I'm not sure how people cut the carried yarn in back without their swatch falling apart! I'd love some cute little swatch rugs to decorate my apartment with, if I could figure out how they do it!Bonus Question: I would love to hear about how your weaving is going! Weaving and spinning are 2 things I would love to learn but currently my brain is at capacity as far as hobbies go in my current stage of life so I will live vicariously through you in the mean time! DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Zig:ravelry.com/patterns/library/zig-3dreareneeknits.com/shop/zigAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 93 Andrea Mowry 2022-12-16 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Interested in learning to spin. My mom bought me a drip spindle for my birthday that I’ve yet to use (gift knots have me swamped 🤪). I fell down the YouTube rabbit hole and now I’m searching for a spinning wheel. Help!!! What is your suggestion on the best wheel for a beginners. 2. I'm finally getting around to trying your DRK Everyday Socks and I'm using a self-striping sock advent to make them and I want your advice about heel placement. I often overthink the heel placement on a regular top-down sock anyway, because it seems like inevitably, my sock is a little loose once my sweaty foot stretches it out. Now I'm even overthinking it MORE because I would love the stripes to work out so I can use the contrast color on the heel. Any advice on how to deal with the heel placement with a self-striping yarn, like your Whiskey in a Teacup sample. Also, if I'm trying on my sock and trying to figure out the heel placement, where should I start the increases? You say about 1.5 inches for my size sock, but is there a good place on the foot where your increases should begin so I don't end up with a loose sock? Thank you!3. Hi, Andrea! This is a bonus question of sorts! I’m getting married next year and am curious if you incorporated any knitting into your wedding to Spicy Pete! What are some of your favorite memories from your special day? Thank you so much!4. Hi Andrea! I started knitting a year ago and I love your weekly Q&A which has helped me so much on my knitting journey! Now I have a question of my own, so, I knit a lot of onesies for my daughter and usually make the buttonhole by doing a yarn over. All is fine in the beginning but after she's worn it for some time the buttonhole grows which leads to the buttons opening when she's wearing it. Is there a way to fix this? I tried reinforcing the buttonhole with some yarn but the same thing happened. Should I use a different method for making the buttonholes? Reinforcing it even more? Or just use bigger buttons? But then they don't fit before the hole grows.. I would really appreciate if you have any tips! 5. Hello and thank you for answering questions every week! I love watching while knitting on Friday night! Here’s my question: recently I’ve knit a couple sweaters with a folded collar. Both sweaters have had you do a provisional cast on, knit the collar (one was 2x2 ribbing and the other was 3x1 ribbing), and then fold it and knit the two ends of the collar together before continuing on to the body. For both sweaters, I’ve found that this results in a collar that doesn’t really hold its shape. It stretches out in a way that I don’t really like. Do you have any idea why this might be? Am I doing something wrong or is this a common problem? (I googled and couldn’t find anything!) Do you have any suggestions for fixing the problem? I’ve read about doing a single crochet reinforcement on the inside of the collar, but this seems like it wouldn’t work well for a folded collar since I’d only get the inside layer. I appreciate any advice you have… I love the sweaters and want to be able to save the collars! Thank you 😊Gluten Free Pie Crust: theloopywhisk.com/2021/08/22/extra-flaky-all-butter-gluten-free-pie-crustDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Join the Instafriends KAL on Instagram with the hashtags: #instafriendskal2022 and head to @shoplamercerie for all the info!Big Cozy Cardi KAL: thefarmersdaughterfibers.com/blogs/woolgathers-from-320-central/cozy-cardi-kalI am wearing Gib:ravelry.com/patterns/library/gib-idreareneeknits.com/shop/gib-for-herAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
Knitting Tutorial: Front Cross without a cable needle Andrea Mowry 2022-12-14 | This knitting tutorial demonstrates how I like to work a Front Cross over 2 stitches without a cable needle. It is demonstrated first in English style knitting, and then at about the 3 minute mark is the demonstration for Continental style knitting. You can find the Back Cross tutorial here: youtu.be/_wNeoAJpN2g
Knitting Tutorial: Back Cross without a cable needle Andrea Mowry 2022-12-14 | This knitting tutorial demonstrates how I like to work a Back Cross over 2 stitches without a cable needle. It is demonstrated first in English style knitting, and then at about the 3 minute mark is the demonstration for Continental style knitting. You can find the Front Cross tutorial here: youtu.be/ls5JRonZHtY
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 92 Andrea Mowry 2022-12-09 | Featuring Special Guest Meaghan Schmaltz!Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. My mother-in-law and I are both knitters and we are having a friendly debate. I was hoping maybe you could help us settle this 😂 When making a garment, should you pick your size and then add your positive ease wanted and knit that size? Or is the positive ease built in? For example, if I have a 32” bust and sweater has indented positive ease of 6”, should I knit the size 32” or the size 38”? Thanks as always for your insight! I love watching your videos and always learn something! 2. I would like to get into knitwear designing, however, I am a tight knitter. I usually need to go up one or two needles for most patterns to get gauge. Any suggestions on how best to express this in my pattern? Do I list the needle I use or the needle most people would use to create gauge? 3. I love, love, love your Everyday Sock pattern because it fits everyone so well. I want to make some shorty socks for gifts with this pattern. Do you have any tips for how to do that? What do I do after the heel is finished and I just have the leg left to complete. 4. Do you have a favourite sock style, toe, heel? 5. Do you have any knitting or designing or stash goals for 2023? Or maybe spinning or other craft goals?DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing The Weekender:ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-weekender-5dreareneeknits.com/shop/the-weekenderAnd a handspun Harlow hat!ravelry.com/patterns/library/harlow-9dreareneeknits.com/shop/harlow-hatMeaghan is wearing the Attune Shawl:ravelry.com/patterns/library/attune-shawldreareneeknits.com/shop/attune-shawlAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 91 Andrea Mowry 2022-12-02 | I am wearing The Daydreamer:ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-daydreamerdreareneeknits.com/shop/the-daydreamer-2Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 90 Andrea Mowry 2022-11-25 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Can you tell us about that gorgeous yellow and grey yarn on the wall behind you? I’ve been wondering about it for weeks. Love your YouTube videos, patterns and tutorials. Thank you!Yellow: The Wandering Flock tinyurl.com/53398wjrGreige: Magpie Fibers magpiefibers.com/nest-worsted/castaway-nest-sport2. I would love if you to give us a view of of your needle storage case and how you organized them. You have spoken often how much you love your case but we only get to see the outside. Maxwell: magpiefibers.com/themaxwellfamily/whisky-wxzl93. I have just purchased your Andrea Cardigan pattern! I have very precious Gotland yarn and when I saw the pattern was available to purchase, I thought... That's perfect! Now, I have about 1050 yds/690g, which, based on yardage I don't quite have enough, but based on grams I do. My question is... Based on gauge, if you use a larger needle, will you use less yarn? Vs a smaller needle? I'm thinking if I do I slightly larger gauge and knit the smallest size I would have enough, but I don't know if I'm thinking about this correctly? Thanks so much for your input! You are always part of my Friday's!4. Hi Andrea, your weekly videos are such a joy that I look forward to watching! I’m curious about your sock blocker, I’ve seen on your wall. It looks wooden with heart cutouts. Where did you get that, and is it still available from the maker? Also — I’ve started looking into getting one now that I’ve started working on your Curio socks and plan to cast on your Bear Paw and DRK Everyday Socks as well. I’ve seen the metal ones and wood ones, with prices varying quite a bit. Have you noticed a difference in materials for them, and have recommendations to a first time sock blocker buyer (try saying that five times fast!) Thanks so much and keep rocking! 5. Hi Andrea! Sometimes when I knit cardigans, I find myself not liking the final outcome because the opening of the cardigan (where the button placket located) is longer than the rest of the knit. If I wear the cardigan without the buttons on, the 2 edges of the opening near my waist (bottom side of the button placket) will be the lowest part of the cardigan where the back side of the cardigan will be shorter. Is there a way of fixing? Why the garment ends up like that? I hope I explained this well enough, thanks in advance!6. Hi Andrea! I've learned so much from your podcasts. Since you've been chatting about the Weekender a lot lately, I thought of a question! I've knit one Weekender already and am planning on casting on another soon. On my first one, I noticed the neckline pulled up in the front, I think just because of my specific body proportions. I've knit one other drop-shoulder sweater, and the same thing happened. For my second Weekender, I'd love to know if it is possible to lower the front neckline slightly to account for this, so that the edge doesn't sit so high up on my neck. I'm not sure how I'd adjust the pattern to account for this. Thanks so much!!The Daily: ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dailyPink Fizz: ravelry.com/patterns/library/pink-fizz-3DRK Fall KAL Challenge: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4228030 Join on Instagram with the hashtag: #BearpawKALchallengeDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing Shifty:ravelry.com/patterns/library/shifty-2dreareneeknits.com/shop/shiftyAnd the Hoarfrost Shawl:ravelry.com/patterns/library/hoarfrost-5dreareneeknits.com/shop/hoarfrost-shawlAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Bonus Episode 89!! Andrea Mowry 2022-11-22 | An update on my DRK Spin It To Knit It Weekender journey!!
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 88 Andrea Mowry 2022-11-18 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Okay, follow up question from episode 87........you mentioned wanting to pick only one pattern to knit forever from each category. So what would those be? I assume the DRK socks because you mentioned those, and the DRK sweater because that was the one you chose for the one and only, but what about other categories?2. What are your favorite brand of knitting needles & why? And do you prefer interchangeable sets or solid/single size & length needles? If you prefer the latter, how do you store them? 3. I recently finished a weekender light out of my handspun yarn and it has absolutely lit a fire under me to knit with more of my handspun yarn. What would be your advice for the next sweater or cardigan pattern I could knit with handspun. I prefer fingering weight to sport but at open to anything. Thank you for a continuous flow of wonderful patterns to knit. 4. Hi, Andrea! I am taking part in the S2Kit Weekender KAL this year. I spun some beautiful 2 ply BFL in 3 different colorways (2 bumps each) done up in a fractal. The first bump is spun from head to toe in one long continuous color and then the second is broken up into small chunks to be spun and plied with the other two bumps of long continuous color. This way the long continuous bump is never piled with itself. This is proving problematic with knitting the front and back separate. So, I was considering to add stitches where the pattern says to divide for front and back, and then continuing in the round in order to steek for the sleeves. How would you go about doing this? About how many stitches would you add? Did I mention this is my first time steeking...ever! *yikes* Any other tips would be fantastic! For reference I am knitting size number 4 with 58 stitches on front and back, and then picking up 68 for the sleeve. Thank you for being my knitting answer lady and keeping me company on Fridays while I knit at the laundromat. Have a fabulous weekend! 5. Hi Andrea. I notice you frequently use the long trail tubular bind off in your patterns. I always had a really difficult time doing this BO until I was introduced to the “1x1 invisible BO” which seems a LOT like the long tail tubular bind off but all on one needle. Questions… are these the same thing? Is it possible to do the long tail tubular bind off on one needle? (For some reason I get all confused when I add a second needle). And finally, do you have any tips to put down and pick up your knitting while doing the tubular BO. I find I never have enough time to do it in one sitting (yay! Toddlers) and always have a hard time knowing where I left off when I pick it up again. Kitchener Stitch on One needle: youtu.be/UNVNaKhxV4oDRK Fall KAL Challenge: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4228030Join on Instagram with the hashtag: #BearpawKALchallengeDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Stria Cardigan:dreareneeknits.com/shop/stria-cardiganravelry.com/patterns/library/stria-3With the Wilder Gown :fridaypatterncompany.com/products/the-wilder-gown-pdf-patternAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 87 Andrea Mowry 2022-11-11 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi, Andrea. Thank you for another great episode. I was fascinated by your tip to decrease the number of stitches in the body of a top-down sweater by 20 percent on the last row before beginning ribbing to cinch in the waist while eliminating puffing. I have a companion question: What if you want a boxy sweater to retain its boxy-ness after you start the ribbing? I often like deep ribbing -- three inches or so -- but I don't want it to pull in on a boxy sweater. Is there a way to accomplish this (short of aggressive blocking)? Curious to hear your solution! 2. I noticed your newest pattern, Trinigan, mixes Tribe and Dream state yarns. One is Non-superwashed and the other is super washed. How should it be blocked if one stretches and one does not? I understand steaming it is a good solution, but what if it actually needs to be cleaned with a soak? Is that possible or will it make it misshapen?Trinigan sweater: ravelry.com/patterns/library/trinigan3. Ok so this one is just for fun - if you could only choose one of your designs to knit from here on out, which one would it be? Would you go for something more practical for everyday wear, or choose one because you enjoy the process? P.S. knitting your inclinations shawl (my first pattern of yours) and loving it!DRK Everyday Sweater: ravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-sweater4. Hi Andrea! I wanted to first say thank you again for being so kind and gracious at Rhinebeck. It was a delightful first time there and I’m already excited for next year. I was knitting your Stripes! sweater this summer and I hurried finishing it so that I could take it on a trip with me to California. It ended up much more cropped than I would normally wear and I am looking for it to be a bit more versatile in my wardrobe beyond a layering piece. I’ve seen a couple of different methods of lengthening sweaters and I am curious to know if you have one that you prefer? I am a fairly new knitter and have never cut into my knitting but I’m cautiously optimistic that I’m ready for that adventure! Any advice you might have would be so greatly appreciated. Your podcast has been such an invaluable resource and I look forward to it every week! 5. Hi Andrea! I am an experienced knitter who is newer to brioche. I usually always go down a needle size or even 2 for projects as I am a looser knitter. I am attempting your Briochealicious shawl and my question is should I change needle size from the garter section to the brioche? Or just use a smaller needle (I’m on a 3) throughout? I have trouble usually with the brioche looking a bit sloppy. Also-any videos you would recommend on fixing brioche mistakes? I find brioche not complicated to do but difficult to fix! Thank you! schoolofsweetgeorgia.com/courses/fixing-brioche-mistakes5th Annual Sock KAL Challenge featuring Bear Paw & DRK Everyday Socks: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/topics/4228030Instagram: #bearpawKALChallengeI am wearing the Bear Paw Socks:dreareneeknits.com/shop/bear-paw-socksravelry.com/patterns/library/bear-paw-socksI am wearing the DRK Everyday Sweater:ravelry.com/patterns/library/drk-everyday-sweaterdreareneeknits.com/shop/drk-everyday-sweaterI am wearing the Wildwood Shawl:dreareneeknits.com/shop/wildwood-shawlravelry.com/patterns/library/wildwood-shawlDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 86 Andrea Mowry 2022-11-03 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! I’ve been really inspired by your combination spins. I’ve never mixed braids or blends before, but I’ve just ordered a bunch of new fibre so I can play with combo spins. That being said I’m a little nervous. Anything you recommend avoiding in terms of colour combinations? Should I avoid contrasting colours… although I can’t really control where the colours will match up during plying. Do you just throw caution to the wind and hope for the best?My current spin is a mix of Hello Yarn Fiber: http://shop.helloyarn.com & Wound Up Fiber Arts: woundupfiberarts.bigcartel.com2. Hello, Andrea! This is a decreasing question brought about by some major yarn chicken. I have some beautiful red tonal yarn that I've been saving for just the right pattern and along came Sprite! I knew darn well that I didn't have enough to make the pattern as written and that it would not only be cropped but the sleeves would be shortened as well. I'm fine with that. Yarn chicken is fun and I usually can't help but mess with patterns anyway. My question is about decreasing to make a more fitted waist. I tried decreasing on each side(below underarms) when I was 2 inches from my waist by doing K2tog, K1, SSK on every row. Now that I'm starting my ribbing I think the sides(where I did those decreases) might be really puffy or puckered. Should I rip back and decrease evenly around the rows? Or maybe there's a way I'm not thinking of? If this question is too wonky I totally get it. lol Thank you for sharing yourself with the world. We appreciate you so much!3. I bought a beautiful single skein of a farm yarn-sport weight yarn at Rhinebeck, alpaca/merino/sari silk blend, it’s delightful. My question is-how can I incorporate what feel like “precious” skeins of yarn into my knitting. Do you have suggestions for certain designs or projects? Mixing fibers or weights can be intimidating. Thanks so much-love your weekly videos 😃The yarn I picked up in Iceland: https://gilhagi.is/en/webshop/4. Hi Andrea! I’m completely new to garment knitting this year. I’ve been watching your podcast for a long time and have heard you say many times that knitters tend to tighten up when moving from knitting flat to in the round. I am very used to knitting with plant fibers and have just begun to work on a raglan sweater in wool. I finished the back and forth knitting and joined in the round and I cannot believe the difference in tension. I’ve never had any big problems with tension before. I even tried going up a needle size and my tension is still so different. Is there a reason for this? Do you have any tips to make this transition smoother? Thank you for your help!5. Hi Andrea, can you talk about your knitting journal? What type of book you use and what you write? Have you tried different brands or formats? Do you use files online? Do you use anything like Knit Companion? I usually print out my patterns and write all of the info about yarn, yardage, needle size, gauge, etc - then scribble all over them as I’m going along. At the end I tape on the yarn labels and some bits of the yarn and put them in clear sheet protectors in a binder. My binder is stuffed and messy and a journal seems very appealing! Design journal (dot grid): actionmethod.com/collections/dot-grid/products/dot-grid-book-miniFuture Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/eventsDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing Trinigan:ravelry.com/patterns/library/trinigandreareneeknits.com/shop/triniganAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 85 Andrea Mowry 2022-10-28 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! I’m wondering if you can talk about short rows for creating space for a larger bust. I’m knitting a bottom up sweater and I’m realizing that if I don’t add some kind of allowance for bust it’s just not going to fit me right. Please help! Do I add short rows in the front? The back? Each side? Do I start with the longer short rows and narrow it down, or narrow getting wider? I don’t know where to begin. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!cocoknits.com/blogs/knit-tutorials/how-why-to-work-bust-dartsLittle Red in the City by Ysolda: ysolda.com/products/little-red-in-the-city-ebook2. Hi Andrea, I have a question about lifelines. When you have placed a lifeline and then make a mistake, do you have to frog all your knitting back to the line to fix it? Or can you just drop off a few stitches down to the lifeline and somehow fix the error that way? Or does it depend on the error? Thanks for all your advice, I’ve learned heaps from you and always enjoy your videos (and patterns!). 3. I've often heard it said that unless otherwise specified, stitches are always slipped knitwise. But I've always been confused about how to slip stitches with an icord bindoff. From watching your demo, it looks like in this case they're slipped knitwise. Is that right? Would you be able to explain why? For some reason it confuses me either way I try with the icord bindoff! 4. I'm currently making your Pink Fizz pattern with Magpie fibers Swanky Sock and Feather. It's a beautiful knit fabric and I can't wait for the final result. When I made a ball, I balled up the two yarns together, but now that I'm knitting I'm finding that I'm knitting up the sock weight faster than the lace weight, and I'll have slack develop on the lace weight, resulting in tangles and knots. When I get to the end of this ball, I'll probably ball them up separately instead of together, but I'm curious if there is any knitting wisdom you have about knitting with two different weights. How do you normally handle it? Thanks so much for all your beautiful patterns and teaching!Pink Fizz:ravelry.com/patterns/library/pink-fizz-3dreareneeknits.com/shop/pink-fizz5. I just finished my first brioche project using your amazing pattern The Feel Good Shawl. I'm obsessed! I was wondering if you could show how to style this shawl. I'm quite good at the just draping it over the shoulders and letting it hang method with this shawl ;), but can't seem to ever get the other method you have pictured with this shawl - with it all wrapped up cozy around the neck - to look right. Would love to see how it's done! The Feel Good Shawl: ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-feel-good-shawldreareneeknits.com/shop/9n0qnogvwanlhkhenrla6gfqiuin7rShelbey and the Bookstore!Website: shelbeyandthebookstore.comGofundme: gofundme.com/f/shelbey-and-the-book-clubs-homeYoutube: youtube.com/channel/UC6IrYrinvcTEv_0e-j7KX5wInstagram: instagram.com/shelbeyandthebookstore/?hl=enKits at noon EST on Oct. 28, 2022: magpiefibers.com/kits/shelbey-douglas-cardiFuture Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/eventsDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Birch Pullover:dreareneeknits.com/shop/birch-pulloverravelry.com/patterns/library/birch-pullover-2Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 84 Andrea Mowry 2022-10-21 | Questions answered 10/21/22 - episode 84Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hello from Australia! I love watching your videos on Saturday mornings when I have a lie in and husband entertains the kids. I always knit along whilst you chat and answer questions. Such a lovely ritual. I'm just finishing up your Baubles pattern but gearing up to do the last section of the pattern... the trickiest Brioche ill have ever knitted, i keep putting it off because im scared! its so beautiful by the way. so I have 2 questions (one about baubles and one about another pattern) question 1: lifelines. I use a lifeline in the lace so when I slip up and lose concentration I pull back to the knit/purl row, but for the tricky brioche bit, where do you recommend placing a lifeline? question 2: for the next pattern I'll begin- Winters beach cardi; I've just realised it has no buttons, I think you've mentioned before, but could you give me an indication of the best method of doing a button hole band for this cardi? if you were going to do buttons on this particular pattern of yours, which method would you use? I was planning I think to just do one button I think, in the middle. Anyway, it would absolutely delight me to hear my question answered when I watch along one of these weekends :) One row Buttonhole Tutorial: youtu.be/3W-09aS7FSM2. I am curious about sock heel techniques and the advantages or disadvantages of different types. Last fall I participated in the Curio KAL because I was interested in the afterthought heel. I had made several unsatisfactory attempts at different cuff-down socks where I got lost while turning a traditional heel. I loved the Curio socks and have made two more pairs! I have now moved on the the DRK Everyday socks and notice that you are using a different heel technique. Why? I would love to hear your thoughts around how you choose a heel technique for a pattern. 3. I can't decide which of your "big" shawls to knit. I've only knit one skein shawls so far and don't find them very useful. I like ponchos, but want to try something different. I'd like a really cozy drapey shawl with good depth at the back. I've never tried half fisherman's rib or brioche so am hesitant to try a pattern with these stitches in it. I need a pattern where row count isn't critical, ie I'll be able to increase the size if necessary. I never seem to be able to match row gauge in a pattern. Which of your shawls do you recommend?Everyway Shawl: ravelry.com/patterns/library/everyway-shawlEveryday Shawl: ravelry.com/patterns/library/everyday-shawl-44. Hi Andrea ! Love love your podcast ♥️ I am soooo confused about putting my spinning on a storage bobbin. So when I put it on storage bobbins and I am ready to ply; do I have to then put it back on a different bobbin so that it is going the way I spun it in the first place? I swore you said we could put it on storage bobbins and then ply from those. However some of the ladies in our spinning group think we would have to set it back to the way we spun it. Please un confuse me lol. (Is that a word🤔) 5. For 2 color colorwork, I hold one color in each hand. (Which I learned from one of your Weekly videos!) but there’s been a few times where I have to have three colors going and I really struggle trying to figure out how to hold it all. I’m curious what you do. Do you hold two in one hand, and one in the other? Or do you drop a strand and pick it back up when needed? Or something else? I just need to find a much better way of doing it. help!! Future Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/eventsDRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Rose Cardi:ravelry.com/patterns/library/rose-74dreareneeknits.com/shop/rose-cardigan?category=FadedAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 83 Andrea Mowry 2022-10-14 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. In a long ago episode of I’ll Knit if I want to, you mentioned making a pair of socks for your father-in-law out of alpaca yarn. My mom is allergic to wool and finding a substitute for socks seems to be very challenging. Could you share what yarn you used or any you’d recommend? Are there any other animal fibers you’d suggest for socks other than wool? Do you have a favorite that isn’t handspun (for us nonspinners!)? Love your vlog, it keeps my knitspiration flowing 🥰2. You kinda touched on this in episode 78, but can we talk about laundry day? Historically, I have avoided garments that require ANY level of special care but since becoming a knitter (5ish years ago) that's obviously changed. My wardrobe now has a decent amount of handknitted stuff I'd not dare put through the wash and I find myself hesitant to wear these wonderful items because I don't want to have to essentially reblock them after washing. (To be clear - the handwashing is no issue, just the idea of how to dry them, have them retain shape/fit, etc...) How does someone like yourself, with LOADS of special-care items, navigate this? Side Note: My husband has always worn super nice things that we would never wash at home & either dry clean or else use the kits that you can get at the store for cleaning garments with delicate fibers/construction. Any thoughts on using those at-home dry clean sort of products on handknitted items? Thank you! “Mesh Pringle”: I could not find the one I have on the Cocoknits site anymore, but here is something similar: absolutelyfab.ca/collections/laundry-time/products/woolite-sweater-dryer-pop-up-mesh3. Hi Andrea! I need help modifying a circular yoke, top down sweater. I’ve knit and modified at least a dozen sweaters for my very stocky, broad-shouldered husband over the years, but I’ve only ever knit one round yoke…it did not fit well. I just need to know how to increase the yoke depth so I can add length to it, and additional circumference to the arms and body without creating too many ripples or other issues. Having only knit one, I don’t have a good grasp on how they’re knit in the first place, let alone modifying one. Could you please share a little information on how they’re designed? Or how to increase the yoke? Any help would be deeply appreciated. Thank you!Knitting Without Tears: schoolhousepress.com/knitting-without-tears.html4. Hi Andrea, Im a new(er) knitter. Im working on my third sweater and my first time using the tubular cast on. I have restarted the collar a few times because I noticed some unevenness with the cast on edge thats aligns in the front. This time around I am temped to reposition my BOR marker so I can hide the imperfections in the back and start my short rows in a different position. Are there any draw backs to this? Would you recommend another cast on method for those of use who cant master tubular? Twisted German Cast On: youtube.com/watch?v=oWHRfvU5im05. Hi Andrea! Long time listener, first time caller. I just finished the Oxbow for my boyfriend and he loves it! However, the front of the cardi has started sagging and is much longer in the front than in the back. I was thinking of redoing the button band cast off using a tighter/less stretchy cast off. I also thought I could add a crochet chain along the button band (not the shawl neck) to add stability and prevent stretch. Any thoughts? Thoughts on preventing this in cardis in general?Future Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/events5th Annual KAL for the Alpenglow Sweaters: Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/magpie-fibers/4208763/1-25Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rhinebeck2022DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Attune Shawl:ravelry.com/patterns/library/attune-shawldreareneeknits.com/shop/attune-shawlWith the Penny Pullover: tinyurl.com/4dfuzrr6Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 82 Andrea Mowry 2022-10-07 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. Hi Andrea! :) So far I have only knit two cardigans. Both times I have encountered the same problem: Once the cardigan is finished and I start wearing it a little, the collar kind of "drops" lower and lower and doesn't sit nicely on my lower neck but moreso on my shoulders. It's really annoying and makes my knits look sloppy on my body. I knit according to patterns and stick to the amount of stitches stated there. Do you have any idea why this happens, how I can prevent it from happening and what I can do to fix the issue on my existing cardigans?2. I would like to ask how to go about modifying a top down color yoke sweater's neck from crewneck to turtleneck. Do I have to change the needle size fro ribbing? Do I pick up the same amount of stitches from the cast-on edge? Any other things I should think of before attempting it? Many thanks and have a nice weekend. 3. I struggle with patterns that have "at the same time" instructions, especially if such instructions involve continuing a cable pattern or other complicated stitch pattern while also integrating decreases or increases. Do you have tips for how to keep track of instructions that require the knitter to track multiple things simultaneously? I sometimes get so confused that I write down what I should be doing for every row!4. As a new designer myself, I was wondering how one finds a editor for patterns. I heard you mention the lovely Meaghan, and I was wondering how designers find tech editors? Thank you for all of your lovely patterns!ravelry.com/groups/tech-editing-servicesravelry.com/groups/indy-pattern-designers-resources5. I recently heard from another knitter that winding yarn directly from a hank into a yarn cake using my ball winder pulls the yarn too tight and therefore may affect gauge over time in my knitted item. Instead, it was suggested to wind from the hank into a cake, then _again_ wind a second time from the yarn cake into a second cake to loosen the tension?? Is this a thing? I do purchase my hanks intact and wind my yarn myself; but rather than having all my yarn wound at the LYS into cakes at once, I wait until I need more yarn for my project before winding. I'd appreciate your insight into this. Thanks, Andrea.6. Hi Andrea, Thank you for kindly answering all our questions. I really like the fabric of the sweater you wore in this last episode (81). I love knitting sweater but I always find he stitches very visible and not like the ones that we buy in store where the stitches are so tiny. I was wondering what yarn it was and if you could tell us a little more about how you choose your yarns. Thank you. dreareneeknits.com/shop/mackworthravelry.com/patterns/library/mackworthChats with The Farmer’s Daughter: youtu.be/7W1bW-jt8XIFuture Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/events5th Annual KAL for the Alpenglow Sweaters: Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/magpie-fibers/4208763/1-25Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rhinebeck2022DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Big Cozy Cardi:ravelry.com/patterns/library/big-cozy-cardidreareneeknits.com/shop/big-cozy-cardiAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 81 Andrea Mowry 2022-09-30 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. I love your shawl patterns! They're my go-to for winter or chilly weather, like we're just starting to get now in SE PA. My question is this: I love the i-cord edging on the Nightshift shawl and the sizing on the Free Your Fade. If I wanted to use i-cord edging on the Free Your Fade--I just started a DK version--how would I make that work? The slipped stitches at the start of the row are nice too, but I love the smoothness of the i-cord. (Or would an i-cord not work on the FYF?)youtu.be/nWvb5iqBzwE2. Hi Andrea, I am wondering if there is a way to do a tubular cast on when I am going straight into knitting stockinette? All my Google searching shows me tubular cast on for 1x1 or 2x2 ribbing. I would love to get the same effect for the bottom edge of a sweater that starts with stockinette. Would using a tubular cast on in this situation stop my resulting fabric from rolling up? Thank you for all your tips, tricks and knowledge. 3. Hi Andrea, my question is about the Shifty Sweater :) I really want to make one, and I'm gathering up my yarn selection to hopefully cast on soon, but...I'd love this as a cardigan too! Just curious if you will ever release a Shifty Cardigan? I've never steeked before, but not afraid to try, just don't know if I can go it alone. There are so many FO's on Ravelry, it's overwhelming to look through them all to see if any knitters made good notes on how they turned their's into a cardy. What advice can you give on how to try this on my own? Can I use steeking instructions from some of your other cardigan designs? Or even better, will you kindly design one for us to follow ;) 4. I am at a knitting standstill! I am an adventurous beginner and have made hats and a sweater. I have downloaded patterns from different designers and no matter what I do, I can’t get gauge. :( I think part of my problem is that I am not using the yarn brands specified in the patterns. I have tried to pay attention to yards/weight of the substituted yarn but always seem to come up with lots of yarn but incorrect gauge. I’ve also changed from metal to wood needles. Ugh! Please help! Thank you!5. Last year I knit the Oxbow Cardigan for my 7 year old son (big thanks to your pattern support). It was my first sweater knit and he actually wants to wear it (yay!), but he does want it to have a button or two. Any suggestions for the best way to add buttons without having to reknit the shawl collar? Thank you!Future Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/events5th Annual KAL for the Alpenglow Sweaters: Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/magpie-fibers/4208763/1-25Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rhinebeck2022DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Mackworth pullover:dreareneeknits.com/shop/mackworthravelry.com/patterns/library/mackworthAsk a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
I’ll Knit If I Want To: Episode 80 Andrea Mowry 2022-09-23 | Welcome to I’ll Knit (& Spin!) If I want To! I asked y’all to send in some of your questions (from everything from fiber arts, to designing and on!) so I could put together a little video for y’all every Friday doing my best to answer your questions!In this week’s episode we cover:1. I have a hard time accurately measuring length while knitting. I feel like it’s easy to mismeasure. (Is that a word?) I was told to try counting rows based on my swatch. My question is if I’m using the rows/inch based on a blocked swatch do I use the same rows on the unblocked garment? For example, if my blocked swatch is 5 rows per inch and I need to knit 5 inches. I would just count 25 rows? Even though the measurement might not be the same since the garment is unblocked? Thanks for all your help! 😊2. Hi, Andrea! I’m looking to branch out of knitting stockinette sweaters and try something with texture! How do you go about counting stitches in your gauge swatch when it’s not just “V”s and “bumps”? Thank you so much! 3. Just getting ready to start on my Alpenglow (hurrah!) and am curious... what is the construction reason / thought process behind picking up the neckband and knitting it at the end instead of casting on the ribbed neckband and either sewing it down at the end or knitting it down with the first row of yoke stitches? I haven't used this method before and was curious:)4. I’m just about to start the Mackworth sweater but wondered if I could make the neck snugger - more crew neck than boat neck - how would I do that? Love your designs and love watching the vlog/podcast/show/whatever xx5. I am curious about combo spinning. I love love love your Attune Shawl and when you have talked about it before you mentioned you did a combo spin. Can you please talk about your process for combo spinning? Do you combine different braids of fibers/colors on one bobbin? Do you ply different singles from different braids? I've been spinning for awhile, but this is a new concept to me and am trying to break out of my comfort zone which is sticking to working with a single braid at a time. Also, when spinning braids, do you fractal spin them or break them up in different ways? I love how you have combined your handspun and am wanting to try it myself. Thanks!Yarnitecture: bookshop.org/books/yarnitecture-a-knitter-s-guide-to-spinning-building-exactly-the-yarn-you-want/9781612125213Future Workshops: dreareneeknits.com/events5th Annual KAL for the Alpenglow Sweaters: Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/magpie-fibers/4208763/1-25Facebook: facebook.com/groups/rhinebeck2022DRK Spin It to Knit It…Along - Weekender Style - Ravelry Forum: ravelry.com/discuss/dreareneeknits/4204772Join on Instagram with the hashtags: #DRKspinittoknitKAL and #DRKspinsTHEWEEKENDER I am wearing the Metamorphic pullover:dreareneeknits.com/shop/metamorphicravelry.com/patterns/library/metamorphic-2Ask a question for next week’s Q&A: https://forms.gle/pKM9gF9SixkdQwmS7Sign up for the DRK Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/diPxsr
