Episode 324: Summer Camp!

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 329 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Stitchin With Yarn, UP North Yarns & Chit Chat Knits   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Big Feelings Socks Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Big Feelings Colorway (2nd Quarter 2026 club colorway) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 19th pair of socks. 7 to go to meet my goal for the year.   Moosonee Sweater Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website. Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm) This is a pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one I knit for my friend Megg: Ravelry link). Started 10/22/24 and finished it almost exactly 2 years later.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pumpkin jar cozy Pattern: none Yarn: Kelbourne Woolens Skipper in 650 Nantucket Red Hooks: E (3.5 mm) for base & D (3.25 mm) for sides Ravelry Project Page Yarn purchased in 2025 Greater Boston Yarn crawl 2025 MA Yarn Crawls + Side Quests Part 1 video can be found here   Paris socks Yarn: Phildar Phil Baby + Socks (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the Jaquard Marron 102 colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: about half way through first sock.   Zoe Hat Pattern: Zoe by Alexandra Davidoff ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Berrocco Vintage Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Suburban Stitcher Socks Yarn: Suburban Stitcher Sock Set in the Classy Until Kickoff colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Pigskin Party Exclusive Colorway from 2023 Progress: more than half way through first sock.   Cozy Clusters Blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed (74% Acrylic, 20% Wool, 6% Rayon. 841 meters / 400 grams) in colorway Navy Tweed Hooks: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway: Navy with tweedy bits in creams and orange Plan 40x60 blanket.  Progress: 4 rows complete as of the last episode. At least 6 more now. Enjoy this in the evening.   Olga Sweater Pattern: Olga Sweater by Petite Knit ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Petite Knit Website) Yarn: MC: Battenkill Fiber House Blend Fingering (Corriedale, Merino, Romney Blend) (color is very light gray) -4 skeins, CC: Plied Yarn North Ave Scrap Pack Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Brainstorming   Riley searched Ravelry for sweaters we could crochet to have matching Rhinebeck sweaters for next year. Lowrider Jumper by Iron Lamb ($9 crochet pattern available on Ravelry + Iron Lamb website) I recently wore a cropped sweater I purchased in Paris with long navy dress. Loving it! Makes me want to knit all the cropped sweaters! Do you have ideas for me?   From the Armchair   Partita by Barbara Kingsolver. Amazon Affiliate Link Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy. Amazon Affiliate Link Back Where We Started by Becca Freeman. Amazon Affiliate Link   I also talked about a book event I went to for Back Where We Started where Becca was in conversation with Emma Brodie who wrote the book, Into the Blue- Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.     Knitting in Passing I shared a story from the book event where my neighbor asked about learning to fix mistakes.   In My Travels   Tune in to hear about Rhinebeck 2026   KAL News Pigskin Party '26 Details Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27 Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry Sign up (must be registered to win) Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season) Finish a Project? Enter for points using the Points Tally Form Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends Check your Stats on the Scoreboard Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates) Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread   Updates in this Episode Check out everything on the Ravelry schedule for the upcoming months including these challenges Quarter 1 Challenge is underway hosted by Doolittle Yarnery. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. Closes end of October. Prize announced in next episode. The Charity Challenge runs October 15- November 30, 2026. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 2 Challenge starts November 1 hosted by Fangirl Fibers. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. DK gift Quarter 3 Challenge starts December 1 hosted by Suburban Stitcher. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. FO 75g not yards Holiday theme Quarter 4 Challenge Starts January 1 hosted by Yarnaceous Fibers. Details coming soon. Tune in to hear September Prize Winners!   Events November 7 & 8: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA January 23 & 24, 2027- Sunkissed Fiber Festival in Dover, FL January 29 & 30- Houston Fiber Fest in Houston TX January 17, March 7th- Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA   On a Happy Note At Rhinebeck, our friend Jenni was crocheting candy corn for a bunting. Pretended she was wearing them as bikini. Hilarity ensued. Dad and I had dinner with our friends before we helped them fill the U-Haul with more of moms eBay stock to bring to Vegas to sell. Megg and I went to see Operation Mincemeat in Boston. The first quiet weekend in about a month! Love is Blind Boston & Season 3 of Nobody Wants This. Seeing my first new Monstera leaf unfurl   Quote of the Week Though still very far from being perfect girls, each was slowly learning, in her own way, one of the three lessons all are the better for knowing – that cheerfulness can change misfortune into love and friends; that in ordering one's self aright one helps others to do the same; and that the power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely.   –Louisa May Alcott   ------ For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 328 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: The Wandering Purl, Heart & Squirrel, Keri'd From Fleece on Ravelry, WIPs & Chainz   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Riley's Halloween Garland Ravelry Project Page Forgot to share last time. 4 candy corn (one for each roommate), 1 bat, 2 pumpkins, 1 witch hat, 1 ghost, a few different leaves I used a foundation hdc (in orange)as the strand that holds it all together figuring that would be a bit sturdier than just a chain stitch.   Confetti Cannon Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Woolens & Nosh- SW BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon colorway (30g mini in teal) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   The Riddle of Steel Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Woolens & Nosh- SW BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Riddle of Steel Colorway (with charcoal mini) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Colorway: Conan the Barbarian Reference- stripes of rusty orange, green, gray and brown. Each colors has 2 tones with a thin stripe of charcoal in between and then a thicker band of charcoal between each of the color sets. Progress- almost to heel of first sock   Big Feelings Socks Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Big Feelings Colorway (2nd Quarter 2026 club colorway) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Colorway: wider stripes of dark denim blue, lighter dusty blue, pink, pumpkin orange, dusty butter yellow, forest green, lighter grassy green. Thin 1-2 round stripes of cream between. Found an old Woolens & Nosh mini in med blue for heel. Progress: just turned heel of second sock.   Suburban Stitcher Socks Yarn: Suburban Stitcher Sock Set in the Classy UNtil Kickoff colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Pigskin Party colorway from __ Just started the cuff. Good Rhinebeck project.   Cozy clusters blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed (74% Acrylic, 20% Wool, 6% Rayon. 841 meters / 400 grams) in colorway Navy Tweed Hooks: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway: Navy with tweedy bits in creams and orange Math based on previous project. 53 clusters wide x 30 clusters high gave me a blanket that's 34" wide by 28 inches high. 53 clusters times 30= 1590 clusters. 418g used= .262g per cluster . Plan 40x60 blanket.  136 chains= 66 clusters by 64== 4224 clusters- 1106g (plus border) Progress: 4 rows complete   Neckerchief Pattern: none (inspired by Sophie Scarf by Petite Knit (paid pattern available on Ravelry) using cast on and basic increases from my Millie Margaret Shawl (fingering weight)-Ravelry Yarn: Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks,  Dream base (80% Merino, 10% Cashmere goat, 10% Nylon). No colorway name listed. Variegated yarn with a tan base, pinks, greens, purples and mustards. Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) Progress: At least half way through the center section now. Started March just picked back up   From the Armchair Under Story by Chloe Benjamin. Amazon Affiliate Link. Ruin by Lily Brooks-Dalton. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Some Years Later   Strathcona Sweater Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website) Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body) Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust) Ravelry Project Page   Knitting in Passing I shared a brief story about an interaction with a lady on the train about my sock knitting.   KAL News Pigskin Party '26 Details Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27 Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry Sign up (must be registered to win) Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season) Finish a Project? Enter for points using the Points Tally Form Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends Check your Stats on the Scoreboard Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates) Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread   Updates in this Episode:   Check out everything on the Ravelry schedule for the upcoming months including these challenges Quarter 1 Challenge is underway hosted by Doolittle Yarnery. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 2 Challenge starts November 1 hosted by Fangirl Fibers. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 3 Challenge starts December 1 hosted by Suburban Stitcher. Find details in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 4 Challenge Starts January 1 hosted by Yarnaceous Fibers. Details coming soon. The Charity Challenge runs October 15- November 30, 2026. Find details in this Ravelry Thread.   Events Friday 10/16- Indie Untangled in Saugerties, NY  Thursday 10/15 & Friday 10/16- Woolen Affair in Kingston, NY  (2p on I'll be there) October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA   Contest, News & Notes Teaching OMG Sock knitting class at Staci's Stitches starting in January. Thursday nights 6:30-8:30 for 5 classes.   On a Happy Note Garret got his license My niece Hattie got parts in upcoming productions of Beetlejuice and Frozen! Megg and I went to see a local production of the musical Rocky Horror. Celebrating Dad's birthday. My boss and my friend Kris both walked the Jimmy Fund walk in memory of my mom (among other people of course) Apple Picking Laura's visit including Winnie the Pooh pajamas at Primark All of the beautiful foliage! My first batch of homemade applesauce.   Quote of the Week When autumn darkness falls, what we will remember are the small acts of kindness: a cake, a hug, an invitation to talk, and every single rose. These are all expressions of a nation coming together and caring about its people.   — Jens Stoltenberg   https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/jens_stoltenberg_640351 ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 327 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, AdoreKnit, Doolittle Yarnery & Starfish Fibers   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Tapestry Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Tapestry Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Nazari Top Available for free on Ravelry & the designer's website.   Tray-mat Pattern: None Yarn: Lion Brand Made with Love The Cotton One in the Red Red Wine Colorway (60% Cotton/ 40% Acrylic) Aran weight yarn Hook: H (5.9 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I ran out of yarn and lost the ball band. I need to re-assess.   Swiss Placemat Pattern: none. Chained 52 to start. Working in linen stitch Yarn: Save the Yarn Albert (80% cotton/20% alpaca) in colorway 8238 (green)- 3 skeins purchased in Basel Switzerland Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on another linen stitch placemat. This one for our dining room or kitchen island. Chained 52 to start on this one.   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Picked up first sleeve. Working through decreases.   Confetti Cannon Socks Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal Progress: I am beyond heel on the second sock.   Brainstorming I need to cast on a worsted hat for Laura (but first I have to find the yarn). I think I'll make the Sweetly Striped Hat by Chit Chat Knits (Pro Shop Sponsor)- $4.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry At Rhinebeck I may buy yarn for the Oporto Tee by Suzanne Sommer $8.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry How cool is this Spiderweb dress- crochet pattern from Etsy?! Maybe for next Halloween?   SIZES- Made to measure! This pattern is written for size small but there are notes in red on how to change the size to fit your body!   MATERIALS 4.5 mm hook Yarn Weight: Fingering, Sock - I recommend cotton or bamboo Yardage: 130-260+ yards (depends on size) Gauge: 14 stitches by 12 rows = 4" using Hdc   From the Armchair   The Compound by Aisling Rawle. Amazon Affiliate Link. Let's Not Go Overboard Here by Erica Hendry. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels   Tune in to hear about my recent trip to France! Yarn stores visited Paris- Lil Weasel Colmar- Le Comptoir des Laines Basel- Save the Yarn Strasbourg- Happy Wool .com  (sells Phildar yarn)   KAL News   Pigskin Party '26 Details Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27 Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry Sign up (must be registered to win) - opens 8/19 Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season) Finish a Project? Enter for points using the Points Tally Form Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends Check your Stats on the Scoreboard Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates) Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread   Updates in this episode Help us welcome Laura (LauraKnitsPA) to our Commissioner Team! Check out the Official Pigskin '26 Logo bags available from AdoreKnit. Check out my unboxing of the tote Steph gifted me on Instagram. Check out our PIG chat threads in the Ravelry group Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 1 (October) is Doolittle Yarnery. Find the Knit/Crochet in Black merch here if you want to join in. The full challenge details are in this Ravelry Thread. The Tailgate Talk Challenge has begun! Check out the Ravelry Thread. Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November) is Fangirl Fibers. The full challenge details are in this Ravelry Thread. We hope you'll join us and make a DK gift for someone you love. Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December): Suburban Stitcher- festive fun Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January): Yarnaceous Fibers- challenge TBD   Events   Friday 10/16- Indie Untangled in Saugerties, NY Thursday 10/15 & Friday 10/16- Woolen Affair in Kingston, NY October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA   On a Happy Note Babysitting fun with Gabriella and Zachary. Driveway paving!! The slightly slower pace of fall and getting out for walks with my friend. Labor Day weekend pool time with family and friends. In Colmar, Marta was looking for a pretzel and thought she saw one but it had feet! I took an adult tap and jazz class at my friend's dancing school. Dan & Shay concert with Riley & getting to see her school. Seeing my friend Nathan in Damn Yankees   Quote of the Week "There is something so special in the early leaves drifting from the trees – as if we are all to be allowed a chance to peel, to refresh, to start again." – Ruth Ahmed ----- For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 326 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu & Mandi's Makings   Off the Needles   Neckerchief #2 Pattern: none Yarn: Valley Yarns Huntington (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in colorway 22 Navy Needles: US 6 (4 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Nearly done with the ribbing now!   Log Cabin Blanket Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024) Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry. Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post. Progress: 30 squares completed! I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.   Confetti Cannon Socks Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page New base for Woolens & Nosh that was very kindly gifted to me by Michele to try out! Thank you! I love this new base. About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal Progress: I am beyond heel on first sock.   Big Feelings Socks Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Big Feelings Colorway (2nd Quarter 2026 club colorway) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I am beyond heel on first sock.   Deschain Pattern: Deschain by Leila Raven ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Berroco Remix in colorway 3922 Buttercup Needles: US 10 (6 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I am only a few repeats into the front of the top.   Tray-mat Pattern: None Yarn: Lion Brand Made with Love The Cotton One in the Red Red Wine Colorway (60% Cotton/ 40% Acrylic) Aran weight yarn Hook: H (5.9 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I have crocheted around 5 inches so far.   Brainstorming   Blanket options I'm considering No-Purl Ribbed Blanket by Purl Soho (free knitting pattern) Football Lovie by Alissa Clevenger $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry   Project to bring to France Tip Top Tank Fine by Emily Bolduan- Free Ravelry knitting pattern Islander Vest by Claire Jackson- $11 knitting pattern (options for pay what you can)   From the Armchair   The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth. Amazon Affiliate Link. In Her Defense by Phillippa Malicka. Amazon Affiliate Link. I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Watching: Silo Series on Apple TV- season 3   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing David sent me photos of his Pollen Party socks at work and at Pilates!   KAL News   Pigskin Party '26 Details Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27 Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry Sign up (must be registered to win) - opened 8/19 Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season) Finish a Project? Enter for points using the Points Tally Form Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends Check your Stats on the Scoreboard Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates) Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread   Updates for this episode: The next Stretches for Stitchers session (from Fitness by Mara) starts Sept. 14th but participants can join at anytime or use a single class pack! Check out our Quarter 1 (October) Challenge hosted by Doolittle Yarnery. Details in this Ravelry Thread. Thanks to Ravelry user Elisewentwest for updating her worksheet for project tracking. If you want to check it out click here and then make a copy of it to edit for your own tracking purposes.   Events September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes) September 17-20: Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY September 24-27: Greater Boston Yarn Crawl October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA   On a Happy Note Laura's Visit- Flight Club Boston. Lolita for dinner. Sunday- breakfast at Yaz's Table, thrifting and shopping for college stuff with Riley. Megg and I saw Jagged Little Pill at Company Theatre Riley getting off to college successfully! Seeing Aila and Hattie perform in the Cabaret show Facetime tour of Riley's dorm Marta is meeting Laura and I in Colmar, France! A step challenge through my gym has me out on more walks. Lovely message from Natalie (remembrances pottery) about a stone wall she's building after seeing one on my vlogmas walks. Megg and I went to Liz's band, Safe Journey's, show at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. Check them out on Instagram. Then on Saturday, Dan, Dad and I went to an outdoor musical festival in Providence, RI where Safe Journey was playing. We had lunch and beers at the pavilion at 195 District Park. We really enjoyed the Guild Brewery beers and seltzer. Rhinoceros at ART in Cambridge wearing thirfted dress.   Quote of the Week   "Summers had a logic all their own and they always brought something out in me. Summer was supposed to be about freedom and youth and no school and possibilities and adventure and exploration. Summer was a book of hope. That's why I loved and hated summers. Because they made me want to believe."   ―Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe     No episode on 9/15. I'll be in Paris!   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 325 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wild Violet Socks Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Right as Rain Socks Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Summer Brights Cozy Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde- $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts Yarn: Crafter's Secret Cotton in Turquoise & Brights Hooks: F (3.75 mm) & G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I finished the yoke, blocked it, measured, split for the sleeve. Helical knitting for body. Had about 2 inches in about 2 days.   Log Cabin Blanket Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024) Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry. Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post. Progress: 30 squares completed! I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.   From the Armchair   Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   KAL News   Splash Pad '26 Wrap Up Splash Pad Party '26 Final Prize Winners Announced 157 players with entries during the Splash Pad Party! 7 participants with over 100 entries for prizes- jstuntz, mostlymunhies, ddorf4, roocmc, socalknitgirl, eyenowhour and valknits15! Nicely done! Check out the Summer Celebration Thread on Ravelry to see pics of things the community made this summer. Thanks as always to Wendy & all of our sponsors.   Pigskin Party '26 Details Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27 Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry Sign up (must be registered to win) - opens 8/19 Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season) Finish a Project? Enter for points using the Points Tally Form Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends Check your Stats on the Scoreboard Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates) Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread   Events September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes) September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA   On a Happy Note We are getting our driveway paved! I went for fun nails again! Riley took Dad and I to see Tim McGraw, Lady A and The Chicks at Fenway! Her friend Maddie also joined us. Camping and kayaking on the Saco River in Maine. Dan and I went out with a few of our friends for Margarita's birthday. My cousin Gayle came up from Florida for a visit. We had a rocking pool day on Sunday! Then on Monday evening, Dad and Gayle picked up Dan and me for dinner and a walk around the lighthouse. I'm going to France with my friend Laura in September!   Quote of the Week A Blessing for the Life You're Bracing For by Kate Bowler   Bless you who still have popsicles to drip,  tomatoes to slice, books to leave facedown for just a minute longer,  and evenings that don't yet know they are numbered.   May you resist the annual migration  toward freshly sharpened pencils, color-coded calendars,   and the familiar lie that next month deserves more of your attention  than the one still sitting in front of you.   Bless you who linger over one more meal outside,  one more chorus of cicadas, one more porch sit,  trusting that ordinary rituals are already a life well lived.   May you savor what remains before you begin rehearsing what comes next,  because August has always been generous with those willing to stay exactly where they are for just a little while longer.   —Kate Bowler   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 324 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Knitting in Passing Crafty Adventures In my Travels KAL News On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Check them out at their trunk show at South End Yarn Co in Newburyport until August 7, then at Fiber Revival in Newburyport, MA on August 8.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wicked Witch Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters) Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash Hook: C: 2.75 mm Ravelry Project Page Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.   Dorothy Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & $4 on Etsy (sale)- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters) Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash Hook: C: 2.75 mm Ravelry Project Page Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.   Mine! Socks Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wild Violet Socks Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 1st sock finished. 2nd sock part way through the heel flap   Right as Rain Socks Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 1st sock is finished. 2nd sock is onto the foot.   From the Armchair This Story May Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum. Amazon Affiliate Link. Whistler by Ann Patchett. Amazon Affiliate Link. Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston. Amazon Affiliate Link. Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing Roc loves to visit yarn stores so we went to: Wicked Good Yarns in Braintree, MA where he bought scissors, a kit for a chicken and Joann gifted him the tapestry needle he was looking for. Elissa's Creative Warehouse in Needham, MA where he bought blue yarn to cast on an elephant. Stitch House in Dorchester, MA where Roc found a bright mini skein he liked and I restocked my favorite knitting stitch markers.   Crafty Adventures Riley worked a bit on the cuff of a sock with her Area 51 Fibres Be FearLESS colorway yarn. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for mine. She also started a diamond painting project and crocheted several rounds on her hexagon blanket. She's using white worsted weight yarn held with minis from the advent yarn Nicole sent her. Marta and Roc both worked on his diamond painting project- a seaturtle. Marta got a crochet kit for a slice of pizza at Walmart and was able to finish 2 pieces with the yarn from the kit (with some heavy mods on the second one). Roc completed 2 hippo stuffies out of microfiber blanket yarn (free pattern from the Friendly Fox site). He finished a dinosaur he started during his last visit and the chicken he bought this year. Gabriella got a Craft-tastic learn to knit kit for her birthday (on sale at CVS right now). It came with a small circular loom. I taught myself how to do it and made a small axolotl. Came out cute! Has patterns for a bee and a panda too.   In My Travels We visited Tall Ships while they were in Boston Museum of Ice Cream (lots of fun, especially with kids. We spent about 90 minutes there) Bota Borg 24 quests- each is a series of escape rooms. You can do as many as you like with teams of 3 or more. You choose 2 or 4 hours. We loved it and would definitely go back. The Great Gatsby (musical) We enjoyed seeing our small towns from another perspective.   KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details Event runs 5/22-7/31 Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1 View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad '26 Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch. Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread   Tune in to see if you won a July Participation Prize Pigskin Party will kick off with the NFL on Wednesday September 9th. Get those WIPs done before then!   On a Happy Note Pottery from Riley! Wow A few amazing pool days during 4th of July weekend with family and friends. Riley & I went to the Megan Moroney concert!! Score N' Hole pool game! Marta's visit highlights America's Funniest Videos- especially these two contenders for best video of the year. We had running jokes based on these for 2 weeks straight. Riding around in Riley's Jeep. Kayaking. movies, night swimming, Making up songs. Going for ice cream & slurpees. Taste tests & inside jokes. I felt like I was at summer camp! On our last night togetherwe made up lyrics to a song from the Six musical we'd been listening to and Riley made a video using it. Adorable! My boss gave us 2 of his older kayaks. Dan bought a new rack for the truck so we can fit 5 inside the bed and the 2 longer ones on top. Our friends visited from PA. Millie and twins Rhiannon & Teaghan are so cute- especially in their matching bathing suits.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Quote of the Week   "Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time." – Aliyyah Eniath   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 323 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:     Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu (2nd Episode of the Month)   Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints!  Check them out in person July 18th at South End Yarns in Newburyport, from July 24-26th at The Gathering at Westfield State hosted by the Northeast Handspinners Association (check out the Saturday evening ticket option for only $25), and don't forget Fiber Revival August 8th in Newbury, MA   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pollen Party Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke (only about 8 colorwork rounds left)   Jelly Roll Blanket    Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry) Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash Ravelry Project Page I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram. Progress: I finished my 8th strip and I'm 1/3 into the 9th. Still loving this project!   Mine! Socks Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress- I knit the heel of the sock on the plane to NYC, knit on the foot during Schmigadoon and got half way through the toe on the way home.   Wild Violet Socks Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 1 sock is just beyond the heel. 2nd sock is a few inches into the leg   Brainstorming Gabriella's birthday ideas Elphaba (crochet pattern for sale on Ravelry & on Crochetlandia Site) Dorothy & Toto (crochet pattern- free on Ravelry) Glinda pattern (crochet pattern- free on Crochetlandia Site) Another set available on Etsy from AnaMariaCraft: Crochet Amigurumi Pattern Bundle Wizard of Oz – Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Wicked Witch & Good Witch $24. Her patterns are also available on Ravelry but if you want a bundle, there are better deals on Etsy.   From the Armchair Kin by Tayari Jones. Amazon Affiliate Link. Dirtbag, Massachusetts: A Confessional by Isaac Fitzgerald. Amazon Affiliate Link. Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing I shared a story about another knitting finding me before the Broadway show we were seeing began.   In My Travels Riley and I took an impromptu trip to NYC when she was asked to babysit a local family while they were visiting NY. Friday- we saw Schmigadoon! Saturday- RIley and I got coffee and bagels before we met Laura to visit the Museum of the City of New York to see murals of "Another Wonderland" by Abram Champanier. Riley went off to babysit Saturday night. Laura and I enjoyed a leisurely night in at the hotel. Sunday- Riley and I set an alarm to head to Butterfield Market to buy Dot Cakes. We took a stroll through Central Park before thrift shopping and lunch. Riley went to babysit. I met Laura at Shukette then I went solo to see Operation Mincemeat.    KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details Event runs 5/22-7/31 Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1 View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad '26 Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch. Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread Prizes:  we have 48 prizes to give away this Splash Pad season. Tune in to hear if you're a May/June winner!   Events July 31-August 1: Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA August 8- FIber Revival in Newbury, MA September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes) September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA     Life in Focus July 2 is half way day of the year! Let's do a check in on my 26 in 2026 List:   A-Aim for one night at week at the pool in July and August- make it regular and invite friends to pop over B- Blood- donate at least 4 times (1/20, 3/17) C- Christmas Sleepover D- Declutter 26+ items- delivered a trunk full in February E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events (I have 36 on the calendar for this year!) F-Find 2-6 new things and try them out! 1) Orange Bike Beer 2) Dot Cakes in NYC, G-Go on a trip with Dan (just us) Anniversary Trip to Portland H- Headshots for Hattie I- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum- Go there J- Journal- Write 365 entries in my I Remember Journal about Mom (inspired by Liz Craft who talked about it on Ep 451 of Happier in Hollywood podcast) K- Knit at least 2 projects with handspun (Treysta sweater, Inclinations + bonus Goldwing Sweater WIP) L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books (11 as of February, 24 as of 4/27, 30 as of 5/29, 36 as of 6/24) M- Museum- Museum of the City of New York N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once-- visited in April & Jun O- Organize a FearLESS Living Fundraiser P- Puzzle- do at least 1 with Dan Q-Quarterly review of calendar/photos & goals (to make Year in Review easier and faster)- calendar it! March done, Q2 review will get done this week. R- Restaurant- try at least 1 new local restaurant (Blu in Theater District 3/26) S- Socks- knit 26 pair- 11 done so far. T- Tattoo- started following some artists on Instagram (plan end of year so can donate blood) U- Up the amount of muscle in my body- at least 1 pound by end of the year. Making good progress. V- Vlogmas- take the year off (even if you're tempted) W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month (put reminders on my calendar at the beginning of each month to help remind me) Jan, Feb, March, April, May done X- Cross 1 thing off this list that no longer serves me (H hattie headshot) Y-Yoga at least 2-6 times Z- Create Zone to keep important papers   On a Happy Note Millie graduated from 8th grade. Dad and I were able to go. Riley's graduation party! Father's Day pool day at my dad's! Dad let Gabriella pick out a few of Mom's Oz things she likes including a book that she's flying through. Thought I broke my toe on wrought iron chair leg- but think maybe it was a bad sprain I'm so grateful it's healing well. A sweet moment with Riley Fun nail art! I got a lovely text from Alicia at ZK of many of our DCS friends!   Quote of the Week   "We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibers, as sympathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us as effects."   ― Herman Melville   --------   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 322 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Miles' Dump Truck Pattern: Dump Truck by by AnvisionCrochet (crochet pattern for sale on Ravelry & Etsy) Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids Hook: C (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Merry Christmas Kevin Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway Ravelry Project Page   Midnight Orchid Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke   Pollen Party Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I'm well into the foot of the second sock.   Mine! Socks Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Colorway: Nemo Reference- thin white stripes with wider colorful stripes in between Orange, aqua, yellow, navy, light gray. May 2025 Club Colorway. Navy mini Almost to heel of sock 1   From the Armchair   Books Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino. Amazon Affiliate Link. (You may enjoy this- Beautyland Review) Almost Life by Kiran Millwood Hargrave. Amazon Affiliate Link. Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. Amazon Affiliate Link. Check out this link to a Guardian article about the book. John of John by Douglas Stewart. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Musical: Black Swan at American Repertory Theater   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details Event runs 5/22-7/31 Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1 View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad '26 Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch. Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread   A few fun highlights from the June Poolside Chat Broken Jack socks knit up by Ravelry user KBamr- Check out the Ravelry Project Page here. PAKnitWit shared a handy video for the Tubular Cast On using scrap yarn in this Ravelry Post. SammichStitches is working on a Persian Tiles Blanket and got all of the pieces done- ready to seam up and wow is it beautiful. Check out this Ravelry Post. Lmecoll shared a test knit sock for Chit Chat Knits- check it out in this Ravelry Post. They're called the Summer Sizzle Socks.   Events July 31-August 1: Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA August 8- FIber Revival in Newbury, MA September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes) September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA   On a Happy Note Seeing Riley off to Prom and attending her high school graduation! Visiting with Vikki, in from Las Vegas. Miles' second birthday party. Aila's voice recital and then a girls shopping trip to follow with Megg, Kris, Riley and Aila. An absolutely splendid birthday! Seeing all the kids in their recitals this weekend. My brother did the father/daughter dance with Riley in her last recital. I blubbered through most of it. We then danced the night away at our twin friends' 50th birthday party. Brunch before Black Swan with Megg and Rose. $18 bottomless brunch (food- not alcohol) at The Painted Burro in Harvard Square is so delicious! Great conversions.   Quote of the Week   "Heroes didn't leap tall buildings or stop bullets with an outstretched hand; they didn't wear boots and capes. They bled, and they bruised, and their superpowers were as simple as listening, or loving. Heroes were ordinary people who knew that even if their own lives were impossibly knotted, they could untangle someone else's. And maybe that one act could lead someone to rescue you right back."   ― Jodi Picoult, Second Glance   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 321 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Inclinations Cowl Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. My Ravelry Project Page   Sunday Brunch Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock in the Sunday Brunch at the Breakfast Club colorway; club colorway Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: mini skein in a medium denim blue. Self striping- tan, navy, mustard, pink, coffee w/ milk brown.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color & 20 ounces of Grey Shetland from Forever in Fiber on Etsy Ravelry Project Page I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit. Plied 5 bobbins over Memorial Day weekend. and have since finished and washed 5 skeins of yarn! If my math is right, I have 224g of fiber and 352 yards.   Jelly Roll Blanket    Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry) Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash Ravelry Project Page I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram. Progress: I finished my 7th strip   Midnight Orchid Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples. Progress: First sock is finished. The second is just beyond the heel.   Merry Christmas Kevin Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway Ravelry Project Page Progress: finished first sock. Finished cuff of second in Portland. No specific rush on these so they're just hanging out in my purse   Goldwing Sweater Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details) Ravelry Project Page Handspun is all different yellows, mustards, peach, pink orange, rusts. Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke   From the Armchair   The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. Amazon Affiliate Link. Famesick by Lena Dunham. Amazon Affiliate Link. Into the Blue by Emma Brodie. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Musical: Something Rotten playing at the Lyric Stage, Boston through June 7, 2026   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels Dan and I spent a weekend in Portland, MA Yarn stores visited: The Purling Pigeon, Knit Wit Yarn Shop, Port Fiber Coffee: Buzz Coffee Breweries: Rising Tide Brewing, Batson River Brewing & Distillery, Orange Bike Brewing (Gluten Free), Apres (seltzers!), Lone Pine Brewing Restaurant: Isa Bistro   KAL News   Splash Pad Party '26 Details Event runs 5/22-7/31 Splash Pad Party Registration is open View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad '26 Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch. Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread   Contest, News & Notes I was so sad to hear of Gigi Knitmore's passing. Sending so much love and support to their whole family. Haven't listened? Check out the Knitmore Girls Podcast back catalog.   On a Happy Note We had Gabriella and Zach for another sleepover and it was a blast! We all enjoyed seeing Hattie in Seussical. Dad, Jeff and I all went to one of Garret's last lacrosse games of the year. Normal Mammogram! Reminder to get checked if you're due for this or any other health screening. Anniversary weekend in Portland with Dan Jury Duty Presents- Company Retreat (on Prime). Patreon Zoom- always love hanging out with you. Getting salads back in the rotation + watermelon! All of the Splash Pad Mojo! My fav Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) musical got picked up for a national tour. It starts in Providence in fall of 2027! They also got nominated for 8 Tony's! I'm so excited for them.   Quote of the Week An artist is a sort of emotional or spiritual historian. His role is to make you realize the doom and glory of knowing who you are and what you are. He has to tell, because nobody else in the world can tell, what it is like to be alive.   -James Baldwin ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 320 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Some Years Later In my Travels KAL News On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Heart & Squirrel & AdoreKnit   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Venom Pattern: Venom Keychain crochet pattern available on Ravelry for $5 & on Etsy (on sale for $1.50 in May 2026). Yarn: Vanna's Choice in Black, Knit Picks Brava (red) & white felt for eyes and mouth Hook: C (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Glue used: Aleene's Fabric Fusion   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Inclinations Cowl Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. My Ravelry Project Page   Jelly Roll Blanket    Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry) Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash Ravelry Project Page I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram. Progress: on my 6th strip   Midnight Orchid Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Midnight Orchid colorway Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: skinny stripes of cream with contrast colors- greens, ochre and mauvy purples. Progress: Cast on both socks on two separate needles. First sock is finished. The second is just beyond the heel.   Merry Christmas Kevin Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz, Steel Toes in the Merry Christmas, Kevin colorway Ravelry Project Page Progress: turned the heel on the first sock over the weekend.   Brainstorming   Granny Square Muff by Allyson Dykhuizen- free pattern available on Ravelry Nautilus, The Submarine- Ravelry Pattern by Paola Navarro for $4.20 on Etsy Ace the Airplane- $5.20 on Etsy (view on Ravelry) Airplane by Joyce Overheul- $4.99 Ravelry & Etsy   From the Armchair   Books Sea Wife by Amity Gaige. Amazon Affiliate Link Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. Amazon Affiliate Link. Diabolical Lies Podcast (a long-form culture and politics podcast by Katie Gatti Tassin and Caro Claire Burke). Check out their Substack. I enjoyed this episode- Is there a Skinny Apocalypse in Hollywood? A Summer Affair by Elin Hilderbrand. Amazon Affiliate Link   2 Plays   It's a Madhouse! by Todd Wallinger. Faust by the Embody Project Theatre If you heard me mention the Suffs musical in Episode 317 it's now available on PBS until July 31, 2026!   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Some Years Later I've rotated out our couch blankets and I'm loving my Recollections Throw (check out my Ravelry Project Page- from September 2022).   Recollection Blanket Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy- written in both US & UK Crochet terms) Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash. Hook: J (6.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page All yarn held triple MC- 3 strands of gray.- separates each row of colorful yarns Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe). LOVED working on this project. Great end of stash dash project. no finishing required. no borders. no weaving in ends. finish twisting fringe and its done! 6,576 meters for Stash Dash     In My Travels NH Sheep and Wool with Ryan We had a great time catching up with Jess & Anne in the Stitched by Jessalu booth. Fearless Living Fund fabric design is part of the Stitched by Jessalu banner! Anne and I geeked out over musicals and theater stuff! I bought a large bag with deer and foxes and other animals all dressed up for winter Got to see Stephanie from Dirty Water Dyeworks and got some gray yarn DK to border my jellyroll blanket. I bought some minis for my jellyroll blanket from a new to me dyer Appena Fiber I wore Mom's Dotted Rays shawl (Ravelry Project Page) Brown Bunny pottery had a chicken soap dispenser and a spotted chicken bowl I couldn't resist!   KAL News Splash Pad Party '26 Details Event runs 5/22-7/31 Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1 View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad '26 Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch. Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread   Splash Pad '26 Official Logo Bags & Stitch Markers I've partnered up with Steph from AdoreKnit on official SPP '26 logo bags and stitch markers. Full disclosure, I do earn a small affiliate fee for all products sold (for the use of the artwork). Check them out here.   Other Things from the Ravelry Board Sweater MAL Chat- thanks Danielle for starting the chat. If you want to make a sweater in 2026, check it out, chat it up and get some encouragement.   On a Happy Note Longer, warmer days! We had our niece & nephew, Gabriella & Zach over for a sleepover. We went on deer walks, watched The Wizard of Oz, made pancakes, and took turns on the mower and backhoe. Aila's birthday dinner which ended with an impromptu dance show by Hattie and a  not-so-subtle take over by almost 2 year old Miles Zach's birthday party had animals- they had the most gorgeous rooster I've ever seen. After looking at machines for years, I finally bought an espresso maker. The girls Im going to Rhinebeck with this year started a Marco Polo group chat. Woke up early before NH Sheep and Wool- so I got a car wash and came with 10 min of vacuuming. I got that done and it felt SO good. Took a little field trip to the Beacon Hill Bookstore on Charles St with my co-workers. Lovely to get out, talk books, connect.   Quote of the Week "Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them. Everybody has a little bit of man, woman, and animal in them. Darks and lights in them. Everyone is part of a connected cosmic system. Part earth and sea, wind and fire, with some salt and dust swimming in them. We have a universe within ourselves that mimics the universe outside. None of us are just black or white, or never wrong and always right. No one. No one exists without polarities. Everybody has good and bad forces working with them, against them, and within them.   From- PART SUN AND MOON by Suzy Kassem" ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.