Great episode Vanissia. I’ve been knitting for 50 years and it is only been in the last few years that I am successfully making garments that work for my wardrobe. I think it takes a long time to know what shapes look good on your body and to acknowledge that at different times of your life you like different shapes. I have found with some sweaters that I did not like them initially after I made them but a year or two later, I did start wearing them and enjoyed them. I should also say that none of these were a waste of money. You have to remember how much enjoyment you got out of the knitting most of them. That has a value attached to it itself.
I see you and I play my 54 years' card ;0) my mum taught me to knit when I was 4. I have a very vivid memory of playing in front of the house. My dad called to me and said if I came in early for my bath I could do some knitting. I ran in so fast! I also remember knitting clothes for my Sindy( UK equivalent of Barbie).
One option for garments in colors you don’t like is over-dyeing it! A bottle of dye is usually quite affordable, and can dye multiple projects! I started buying dye a few months back and I want to dye so many things I don’t love anymore. I’ll get around to it eventually haha
I would definitely recommend over dying the items you like the design of but not the color of you don't not have someone wanting them as is. The neutral shade should take color well, either warm or cool, depending on preferences, best wishes!
Even your "fails" are gorgeous and you should be proud of these accomplishments. Personally, I think giving the garments to your mom, if she will wear them, means you'll still be able to see them (and get them back later if you'd like) and know that they will be loved and used. Sometimes mohair tempers over time, so if your mom wears them for a bit, they may become a bit less itchy over time.
Very good point !! I will await her response to this offer aha, she did inherit my very first mohair jumper with drops kid silk for that exact reason !
i really appreciate your honesty about your knits! it's so comforting knowing that everyone has a "fail" knit piece and it's not something that just happens to me😅
New Viewer Interesting to look back and see what did not work, and then to fix it in the future. My recommendations as a 60 year knitter. 1: always use a smaller needle for the ribbing. this is the traditional go-to solution for loose ribbing, so common a problem that all vintage patterns include it. 2: Don't use mohair!!!!! You don't like it (neither do I and am amazed how popular it is) but use a substitute or go 'plain'. 3: If you are not enjoying a knit project, STOP and do something else. Even a Test Knit - it is valid feedback. As you have paid for the yarn you are not doing the designer any harm. 4: work out what colours you do like and use them again and again - different mixes but basically the same and you will be pleased. 5: Like with Like - don't mix yarn types. There is a reason that cotton/wool mix feels so different - cotton is a completely different type of yarn - plant based, not animal. Does not stretch the same, does not take colour the same etc. Having said all that, experience comes with time and I am sure this year you will have greater success. Mind you, 8 out of 33 is not bad. Now a subscriber
Thank you very much for all this advice !! Definitely a learning curve. At first i thought knitting was just about making stitches, but it's so much more, and there is so much to get better at, like fit and colouring !
I would just add "like with like" is not as important when it comes to shawls. That's the place I like to mix it up! Also wondering, what do you think about her using the twisted rib, in addition to downsizing needle size?
@@KarenStrickholm Twisted rib is not something I usually bother with. I don't enjoy ribbing so make it a simple (and short) as possible. So downsizing needles is usually enough for me. When it comes to 'like with like' not only do I find it works better, but it certainly washes better. One time my husband knitted a jumper for our first grandson. He striped acrylic with wool. (separated by this time). When the parent washed it - it shrank in stripes....
Thank you for making this video. Over the last months and weeks I gifted quite a lot of my knitted garments and shawls to people that are dear to me: friends, family, hairdresser, etc. It gives me so much joy to give something I have made with my hands and good quality materials to someone who will hopefully love and use it more than I do. I enjoyed making it with the intention of loving and wearing it myself, but I don't enjoy having it in my closet if I find it itchy or not fitting well or in a color that doesn't make me happy. My recommendation is: let go of the items that are not your favorites, and enjoy your favorites to the max. There will always be more yarn, more patterns, more learning and more joy. There is plenty.
thanks for sharing, definitely something good about giving those things a nicer home where they will get used, as opposed to just staring at them all year and feeling guilty ! Will definitely be making more next year, so why keep these !
If these were my projects I’d choose to Let them all go on to new owners. I’d let family pick first then the rest to the charity shop. I’d count them all as valuable lessons hard earned. Starting the New Year with no worries about past projects.
Oh my, I’m crushed for you. But I truly TRULY love your willingness to share your flops with us. It is extremely helpful to see, no matter how long we’ve been knitting. My suggestion (old enough by far to be your mom, and from years of crafting made my fair share of flops) will sound harsh but it’s really for the best. No matter why you don’t like the FOs, get them out of your house. period. If you love both color and content of the yarn, and I mean LOVE, go ahead and frog it and find a pattern you know fits your body. Everything else, find someone who adores the item, gift them with well wishes and move on. Saved items that we gaze on with guilt but never ACTUALLY utilize bring absolutely no value to our lives. Needlessly inflicting ourselves to all that went wrong just makes it worse. So, how to prevent future flops? Another viewer suggested having your colors done, great idea! Take that info and the list of fibers you can’t tolerate to heart and vow not to go down that path again. I look forward to the livestream for charity. You’re a treasure! 💜Blessings to you from Hilton Head SC USA.
thank you!! I do agree that id feel happier with them out of the house aha ! Big fan of that way of approaching life. This year will be all about colours and less neutrals! Or at least greys, which i prefer over beige !
Thank you so much for the honesty of this video Vanissia! It was so so refreshing. I find when I'm watching knitting podcasts and looking at beautiful FOs it's so easy to assume every project is perfect and I'm the only one who has projects that don't really work out..! Good to know that it happens to all of us knitters and it's just a part of the learning process in discovering what works and what doesn't! It seems like a lot of your flops could be fixed with some nice undergarments - have you tried Uniqlo? Not expensive and great for layers. Really looking forward to the stream! X
Thank you for the recommendation and kind words, I really wanted to shed a light on the not-so-good aspects of knitting as it can be easy to get caught up in the "perfect image" of social media ! And all the comments are reassuring me I'm not alone in that, so it works both way!
Thank you Vanissia, very interesting to see what you didn’t like among your projects. I think that they are all very beautiful and I hope that some of your second chances will work out and that the rest will find another happy owner. Just want you to know that I’m very thankful to you for the episode on how to use Ravelry, it really inspired me and showed me how useful it can be, so now I have my whole stash catalogued and am adding my projects bit by bit, you are a very good teacher and I see you as a fantastic influence in the knitting community.
A tip for underlayers, I really like uniqlo heattech, they are super thin so won't look bulky under any sweaters and have a scooped neck option that I find is not visible under almost any neckline! Really enjoyed this video as a beginner knitter, and learnt that I should probably avoid mohair!
thanks, yeah i have one and i love it !! And yeah maybe try your hand with one small item but it's definitely not for everyone, despite what instagram makes it look like lol
I second this! I basically live in Uniqlo heattech which I wear under everything. I’m surprised people can wear woollen sweaters on their skin, even cashmere would be too itchy for me without an underlayer. It also helps keeping your woollen sweaters cleaner!
I was cleaning house and listening to this podcast for the first time and was stopped dead in my tracks when you said this...."I don't want this garment or the yarn in my house anymore". I had to laugh at your level of revulsion towards this vest project. I can totally relate to those "ugh" projects! Subscribed.
One way to soften rough/rustic wools is to give them a long soak (like an hour or more) with a good amount of hair conditioner (any cheap conditioner will work). It doesn't make them merino soft, but it can improve their texture quite a bit. I've also read about people softening mohair by freezing it. It might be worth some research.
Not that many videos where people share their experience with the garment after they presented it in the master class 😏 Thank you! It made me feel I’m not alone 😂 I have a few items knitted last year that I wore once and never touched again. I learned how to knit at age 7, I’m 58 now. I put attention that I simple patterns are usually more wearable. It’s boring to knit them, and usually with small needles, and thus longer process, but they fit better, easy to match with different bottoms, they look more expensive, and they are timeless. When I choose some complicated pattern, it may be fun to knit, but… I do not wear it 🫤 2 most worn sweaters are from bouclé yarn, 100% wool, I bought it for really cheap in eBay 😊 it’s old stock, French yarn, probably from 70s-80s based on the label. So my advice - look at such market places, I do not know what you have in the UK except eBay, I live in the US. Regarding mohair… polyamide mohair is itchy, makes you sweaty, like all synthetic fibers do. Mohair on silk is soft and creates pleasant feel on skin. It’s more expensive but usually 100g enough for small size sweater oversized fit. Cheaper mohair is great to mix with plain yarn like merino wool or bamboo, cotton, etc. One thread in the mix doesn’t make the whole garment itchy but creates more soft look for the sweater. For the seethrough pullovers I use camisoles. I do not allow myself to show bra, not because of age, I never liked it, even when it was kind of trendy 🙄 . Uniqlo has good camisoles, with builtin bra and without, with wide straps to cover bra straps. It’s very useful item for warm and cold weather, good as an undergarment and as a top with cardigan, shirt
thank you! That was all super insightful and useful to read. I appreciate your experience and knoweldge about these things! Will definitely stock up on the uniqlo :p
What a great idea for an episode! It's rare people talk about what didn't turn out as planned. My personal fail is my Leith cardigan : I think the fit is awful on me, absolutely hated knitting the double knit button band and it doesn't look so neat (probably my bad here but still). I am really sad because I thought Rebecca was looking so cute in her version. Thankfully I like the yarn so I am thinking of unraveling the whole thing and knit another striped sweater. I would wear your Jessie Made sweater knitted with you Zakamy yarn with either a beige bra or camisole. Just love this sweater. 😊 And Merry Christmas! 🎉
Thank you! And that's a shame, especially when you're extra excited about the project and have a vision for it! But yeah i thought it was helpful to also consider the money, time, and enjoyment spent on it, to see if there was any redeeming factors, and some of those projects i still very much enjoyed making ! Will try and find those camisoles ! Merry christmas :D
I feel you on this so much!! I made so many beige garments and then I realized it didn’t suit me at all. Now, I knit colorful things or charcoal and black. I have to keep myself from looking at beige-fluencers 😂 I also don’t do test knits anymore. I will pay the money for a finished pattern that I can finish on my own time and see the projects of others for. Not having to apply and make a decision under pressure makes me make better garment decisions.
Thank you for sharing your experience with your knits. It's actually very good that the vast majority were hits, not fails. Looking forward to your live ❤
This episode popped up and I listened for a bit and immediately subscribed. Your honesty is appreciated but your ability to convey your thoughts so quickly on the fly is especially impressive. I have tried to make videos before and I'm full of Umms and ahs. I can also appreciate the fails as I've been knitting for 48 years. i can also relate to wanting to love a garment. @Lisafall is absolutely right about the enjoyment of knitting but don't forget about the life lessons you learn too.. they are hidden within the fabric, guaranteed. Happy knitting! from Canada.🍁
I really enjoyed this episode, your honesty is so refreshing. And you made me laugh many times, ”I do not want this garment or the wool in my house anymore” 😂. I totally relate to that feeling. I once binned a completed project because I had that feeling.
Oh wow! I learned so much about finding the right yarn. While watching this podcast, I noticed your knitting skills are superb! Can you recommend videos of how you pick up stitches. Necklines appear to be the biggest issues for all of us. Thank you!
thank you! I have linked a nice tutorial for making a nice neck edge in my project page for the Lakes Pullover on my ravelry, but other than that, usually a 2 out of 3 pick up ratio. I think Roxanne Richardson has some videos on picking up stitches!
Great episode again thanks Vanissia. Good idea to run through the garments not worn and focussing on why. SO important for all of us to learn so we can refine our knitting selections! Lighting personally of no concern to me....too interested in what you are saying to even notice 🥰Your Holly sweater looks gorgeous - well done for finishing 👍
You are a breath of fresh air as I sometimes think it’s only me that finds I’m not happy with my finished garments for some reason or other but I do enjoy the process. I have sensitive skin also and need to wear undergarments. I have long sleeve round neck tees also I bought very fine long sleeved tops with a higher neck from Primark to wear under my rustic wool Arans. They work well for me. They were £8 so not dear. I do knit with acrylic/wool mixes and even they itch me. Years ago I knitted with mohair cost a fortune and found I couldn’t wear it so wouldn’t even try again I do love the look mind you. Great podcast as always have a happy 2024 x
It is not a crime to knit and not like the result, it is an awful feeling when something you have put so much time in is worthless. I love your videos, just dont be hard on yourself. You are a very fine knitter.
This is a great episode. I love the analysis of how things can flop for yourself. And I'm taking a lot out of it here. Looking forward to more of these kinds of videos to learn more about it ✨🐑
Great episode Vanissia, thank you! The subjects you pick for your extra episodes are great, they’ve really think about my knitting choices, past present and future, in a different way.
I love the Teti’s garden on you! It sounds like yarn sensitivity is something for you to consider in the future. But I love these on you! I wish I were your mom! 😄😄
I am surprised you're not cold enough in Scotland to wear mohair. I spent this past summer in Edinburgh and I was definitely not warm enough most of the time 😂 so back in London now 😂 And I am also surprised you're not wearing any of these, I love them all!
I think if I spent more time outside I would, but even if I'm walking, i warm up, and then in places, they have the heating on, so I just never feel like it's what I need !
Really enjoyed this! It’s great to hear you’re a loose knitter. I’m a self-taught clumsy knitter which I’m working on with TH-cam & ravelry. I started off a very tight knitter and worked hard to loosen my gauge, worried I’d gone too far - after listening to you I’ve a better idea how to adapt it and feel more confident.
thanks and yeah i feel i hear a lot about tight knitters and sometimes felt a bit alone and like most of the advice didnt apply to me, so it's nice to hear other people having looser tension out there !
C'était très courageux de ta part de faire un épisodes sur tes "flops", même si certains sont vraiment très beaux. Je pense que tu as besoin d'avoir plus de caracos et de débardeurs dans ta vie, de jolis sous-vêtements en coton/élastane peuvent t'aider à porter tes pulls plus facilement. As-tu pensé à t'offrir un test de colorimétrie, ou à le faire toi-même ? C'est bien utile pour déterminer les couleurs qui nous vont. Bises Vanissia.
merci beaucoup! Et oui, tu as bien raison! J'ai fait un mini-test en ligne et je suis "printemps" mais ce serait chouette d'avoir un test encore plus professionel, je trouve ca super interessant et ca pourrait payer au long terme ! Peut etre en 2024 ...
I made one garment with mohair and after sweating and realizing it's just too warm/itchy, I pass on most mohair combos... Sad because I like the halo effect mohair gives. If you re-do the slipover neckline, I think it would look good to omit the mohair since it can match the hem. I enjoyed the vid! Sometimes people wax poetic about their makes, so kinda refreshing to hear you speak on how some patterns/yarn combos don't get worn beyond a completion photo.
I definitely will undo the neckline and redo it without the mohair !! Will be a nice objective. And I'm glad you enjoyed the topic, I feel like there's a bit too much "perfection" out there aha !
Thanks for this view of the "other side" of knitting. I've got a big pile of fails, while over the years I've been learning what suits me and fits me. I too am in the no-moh camp - so itchy. A good substitute is CaMaRose Midnatssol (or other suri blends, I suppose, but this is the one I've used). Happy New Year!
Gabo Wool Baby silk yak is softer and slightly thicker than midnatssol if you're open to some new adventures. It is the only fuzzy yarn I can wear without discomfort.
Thank you for this video, we all can learn so much from discussing what doesn’t work for us. Your knitting is beautiful and I am always interested to see what you are working on.
Thanks for passing on the wisdom that cost you time and money to learn. You've summed up perfectly how I feel about holding silk mohair with another yarn. I see many v-neck cardigans in my future, using up my stash mohair. 🎉
Terrific episode, I feel we can all learn from each other and help one another make better informed decisions. In your case, it seems it was mostly the feel of the fabric that bothered you. Going forward, I’d love to hear how you navigate the scratchy factor! Not to make your life more complicated, but I actually thought the colorwork pullover looked super cute on you! Maybe steeking would be an option, as you said. Then you’d more obviously wear something under it that could show, but you’d not lose all the hard work. I think we ALL have maker flops. Its part of the process. This was interesting to see.
Great video Vanissia! I love your honesty and thoughts on what you would change. In terms of base layers, I don't know if you have a uniqlo near you but I really like their underlayers for my knits. I run cold so in the winter i like their thin thermals, but they also have the AIRism brand which are really thin and come in a range of colours for a range of skin types. They are seamless and have low necklines so would hide under the lower knits. Hope that helps!
Great insights! Such a good idea to reflect on what didn't work as that will help with project & yarn choices in future to give you the knitted wardrobe of your dreams.
Thanks for this episode, I think it helps us to know that we are not the only person who is not always happy with our projects. I have found there’s always a little voice in my head telling me when something is not going to work, but it took me a while to start listening to it 😂. I used to think, but what if I do this or use this other yarn instead, etc., and really tried to make things work. But they usually didn’t. So now when, when I hear that voice telling me “this yarn is not right”, or “I’m not sure I like this color”, I have learned to stop and put it aside for a week or so. Then when I come back to it, it’s easier to see what’s not right, some times it’s as simple as changing needle size to get a loser/tighter fabric, and sometimes it’s realizing wrong yarn for this project, but either way it’s better pushing on and finishing something you won’t wear. Your sweaters are all beautiful, so sorry they didn’t work for you. For the ones where it is the mohair that is bothering you, have you tried washing/blocking them a few times to see if they will soften up? This worked for me with a wool sweater that I found itchy. I’ve heard some people even use hair conditioner to soften their wool, but I don’t know if it works on mohair.
So true! And ive not found washing/conditioner to help much with mohair sadly! It's more about how high the neckline is and what i am wearing underneath that can help!
It was good to see your honest appraisal of knits that didn't work for you. Re the v-neck stripey sweater that you need an under-layer for, perhaps an old-fashioned English "vest", a cotton but stretchy undergarment that you'd easily find in Marks & Spencers. I do like your colour choices - they are unusual and fun.
Very thoughtful and valuable review of knitting projects that missed the mark for you. I have a possible source for under-layering garments that you may not have thought of: uniform shops. I don't know where you live, but often medical techs and nurses wear V-neck scrubs that are too chilly in the winter to wear alone, so there is an entire line of base-layer wear that is non-bulky and next-to-skin comfortable (flexible, breathable, etc.) for all day wear, designed to be worn under scrubs. Maybe you could find something there instead of in regular clothing shops. I agree with what others have said here also: Stop knitting with mohair. haha. I'm the same as you, can't stand the prickle, I find it extremely itchy, even within minutes of putting it on.
that is a fantastic idea and exactly what i was looking for !! thanks a million ! And yes, im glad i put it out there that im gonna stop using mohair because you will all help me stay accountable and i cant keep flip flopping aha !
Thanks for another interesting episode. We all make things that don’t fit, are the wrong colour, size etc. That’s how we learn I guess. When things don’t turn out how I want I usually reknit them and if still don’t work I frog them and do something else with the wool. For an under layer I recommend a fine silk long sleeved tshirt, or one in cotton, or a cotton mix. Uniqlo have fabulous base layers and are not expensive. Sunspel have beautiful fine cotton tshirts but are a bit more expensive.
thank you very much for the tips! And good to know im not alone in making the "wrong" things every now and then! Impressive that you can follow through your idea to the very end!
Hi Vanissia - thank you so much for sharing your experiences, what a great video! I am also at a place, where I am "auditing" my hand-knit garments. One more thing to consider, when you have knit something and don't like the colour, is overdyeing the piece. I don't have a big dyeing setup, so what I do is simply using the fabric dyes from the drug store. I know Dylon has dye for hand-washing (rather than using the machine-dye). It is always a risk, but has paid off for me so far :) - also for colour, I generally go for navy, as it is a dark enough colour, has more dimension than black, looks fine in different shades and goes well with everything in my wardrobe. Regarding under layers - I almost always wear a long sleeve top under my hand-knits. My favourites are the heattech turtlenecks (or boat-neck, when the sweater has a lower neck) from UNIQLO , and they have lasted me for years. They do add a lot of extra warmth though, so if it is already to warm for you, maybe look into some of their other options :)
thanks for the recommendations!! i sense some clothes shopping soon ... and i would like to try overdying one day for that very reason! I got some rit dye
Great episode Vanissia. How about putting a fleece lining on the neck of the sweaters that have mohair so it won’t bother you anymore ? I know it might be a little hotter but you might be able to wear it on the coldest days ? Love your channel. 💖
This was really interesting! I need to go through my sweater wardrobe too. For sure you are NOT alone in this…we all have knitting fails. It is ok to let them go. I think the biggest take-away is to carefully consider choosing the right yarn for the project. For you in particular, paying attention to whether you can wear it next to skin. Merino is always good I think. I would also consider trying Cormo as a comfortable yarn to wear.
This is such a great helpful video for us all. If you don’t have great homes for these wonderful garments you might develop a small for sale wardrobe and recoup the yarn price. The ones you don’t like and don’t feel good from itch factor or shape should find good homes but all taught you. It’s very hard to look at sweater designs and photos and translate what would look good on us. Part of the fun is creating our choices so they are experimental but you will learn what are your strong points are in all the areas. Especially as you are so prolific. As I am older and been long out of knitting I wouldn’t dare knit a style I had not worn before to see if I even like it or could wear it with my body. So I would go looking and trying on similar styles in a shop that would be potential to knit. Somehow my best looking clothes were ones I decided I was looking for in my head first as looking good on me and would fill a definite need in my wardrobe. Then the variables to decide how to make it and modify it and what similar patterns there are to choose from give me tons of info. Same in knitting as sewing. And you looked cute and so much better than you think in your photo ops even the ones you hated most. You have a cute shape and manner so with adjustments with color contrastes under or belted you could style them differently. I have your same coloring and took years to figure out how to not just bright color shop but intensity or saturated colors looked great. You could make a sweater vault with your rejects (that are comfortable to wear) so that you can set them aside and consider them in a different light in a year. And then Decide. You are so smart and interesting and helpful. Thank you for all your videos. We all need these things to think about as we are creating one of a kind garments. As I am out of the newest knitting loop until recently I have been watching knitters just to learn what yarns do what and what ways to use them. Blending yarns is totally new and partially responsible for the sensitivities we have with mohair, etc and the price of garments we knit. Again, kudos for leading the pack in honesty and how to 🎉🎉❤better knit for our own bodies and wardrobes. These aren’t failures, possibly good marketing photos being successful in enticing the product and you are learning at a rapid pace. Thanks for taking us along. Upping the game for everyone.
I'm. always knitting sweaters for myself that I never wear. Too small, too big, sleeve issues, itchy, wrong color. Your video has inspired me to take the time to figure out what is wrong and make more garments that I will wear in 2024. Thank you.
You are such an extraordinary knitter! I love the end of the year videos and it is nice to see how others handle f.o.s that are unsuccessful. I definitely have some of those and am toying with the idea of frogging certain ones. I will definitely try tune in for the stream.
There‘s a vieeo by Norman from Nimble Needles about tendion in ribbing where he goes in depth explaining the issue. It helped me a ton! Another option might be to knit twosted rib instead which for me comes out very neat. It‘s mire work though.
This is a great video. It’s really made me think about how much I wear my knits and consider my future knitting plans a bit more carefully. For under layer I have two suggestions that work for me: One is boatneck t-shirt under a slightly more open round neckline. The other of for the cosy classic light, a skin tone camisole or vest, it hides the shape of the bra pretty well but it isn’t super obvious or too warm.
I enjoyed watching this video, and seeing your projects from last year. Listening to you, it sounds like you may want to only create projects out of your favorite yarns that your skin doesn't have a sensitivity to. You may enjoy the finished project so much more. But honestly, the projects you showed in this video all look really great on you. You do lovely work, and I look forward to watching more of your videos ( I just joined your channel).
thank you so much! And yes, definitely learned a lot from this past year and want to focus on yarns ive tried and tested and love, instead of trying new things all the time aha!
Loved this video! Helpful to share that we all have some flops. I think the mist sketch looks great on you so hopefully that one can find a new life. Shape and colour are really nice.
New here. I love the new trend of bringing up the ones not used and why. I really think you look better in colors, where you get a bit of contrast to your skintone. The burgundy in the video is lovely on you!
This video is not for knitters who are looking for info on the do’s and dont’s of knitting certain types of patterns. Thought this was about actual fails but you made all your items beautifully and perfectly and also seemed very impressed with your work. I totally misunderstood what this video was about.
aw no, sorry for the misunderstanding ! definitely was more of a "it's not badly done, but i don't like it" failure ! i don't think i would ever finish something if i knew it wasn't looking wearable
Great video! I have some long sleeve bamboo underlayers. I originally bought them for hiking as an underlayers but they are just perfect for wearing under my knitwear! So far I have only bought from BAM and I'm veryhappy with them
As for underlayers I usually use uniqlo heattech (the very thin ones) they come in skin and neutral colors, and in different types of neck cuts (i like boat and big scoop necks but they also have some more options) Plus they help regulate heat !
I was going to say that too! But if you struggle with being overheated then I'd suggest their summer line, Airism. Those are very sleek under layers, although they might not have as much neck coverage as the heattech turtlenecks. But as long as you don't get the extra warm version of heat tech you should be fine because they're pretty thin, which is nice, but I think the mohair would still poke through though 😢
The green isager with the colourful yoke is really nice and now that you've altered the funnel neckline I hope you give it a whirl. It looks really good. I feel the same way about mohair as you...I understand the temptation because it looks good.
honestly a really easy fix for the balloon sweater is to wear a white turtleneck under it and use the balloon sweater essentially as an outerwear piece. it's already warm as you said, and you don't really want to be wearing a jacket OVER it, so why not use it AS the jacket? plus having a soft garment under it, with long sleeves and a high neck, will protect your skin from the mohair and reduce itching.
I'm not normally a watcher of knitting videos but this popped up in my feed and I was interested. The main theme of this vid for me (apart from mohair hehe) was colour. You have beautiful bright cool-toned skin; cream, brown, beige and warm greens are not your friends. Cool, light, clear colours like pastel pink, blue, aqua, and icy grays and whites would look amazing on you.
thank you! I agree that beige is really not my neutral, but blues and greys are great! Would love to try more pastel pinks this year and maybe aqua/etc !
Thank you for this episode, it is good to know I am nit the only one that has knitted something that turned out less “successful”. Suggestion for your ribbing challenge: try twisted ribbing - I also had similar challenge to you & changed to twisted ribbing and that solved the problem for me. Thank you for your honesty about what you consider “flops”, we call those ones “paying school fees”😊. Have a blessed 2024!
I always wear a silk undergarment with my wool or wool blend knits--best investment i ever made. The silk is very thin and provides the perfect protection from itchy fabrics. I also stay away from alpaca because it doesn't hold shape, and mohair because I don't like to fuzzy look it creates and I'm worried about it being too irritating to wear. Every knit poster I've seen wearing their mohair garments constantly are trying to remove the mohair from their nose, eyes, mouth, etc. Mohair has a place in socks, but I wouldn't use it for much else. Just my opinion.
thank you and yes, i really wish we could move away from mohair being the "standard" in popular patterns, and more of a one-off that we do sometimes, otherwise it can feel like it's a must ! I've been quite slow to de-influence myself and im glad i reached those conclusions. Definitely a learning curve for substituting fibers !
I totally understand how a garment just doesn't feel right but most of your fails actually look great on you (not a fan of the first vest). Especially the Pictus. It's not my style at all but the way you wore it in the video looks really good on you! Uniqlo makes some very thin undergarments that I really like. Definitely worth checking out. I made one lovely crew neck sweater in a beige that doesn't suit me at all. I am not ready to part with it so I have been wearing it with tiny little silk scarfs in great colours to get the beige away form my face and it works quite well. This could also help with itchiness around the neck. Excited for January 2nd!
Merry Christmas Vanissia, Isn't it funny how we see ourselves. I think the Pictus, looks stunning on you! I think it's the silhoutte, you look like a a ballerina in it, it really suits your posture. The april Cardigan is gorgeous on you, too. The costy classic light looks amazing on you, but I guess that doesn't address the itch factor. I think its the Yellow stripe in the V neck jumper that kind of jars when you look at it, It's still beautifully made as are all of your knits. I'd love to see you knit with less neutrals and more colour. As you have fair skin and hair I think you need to add warmth with colour rather than wash out with neutrals, but, again that's just how I see you. I really enjoyed this episode, you're very generous with your podcasts. Happy New Year x
Very good episode. Very interesting. I think the Balloon sweater is beautiful and it will be a shame if you can't make that work for you. I agree with you about the Pictus pullover. I think it might work as a cardigan but perhaps it would look good on a friend that likes to wear a lot of dresses. I like the Cosy Classic light so I would try and find something to go under it. Thanks for a great episode.
thank you for sharing your thoughts! I think im just gonna have to remake the balloon sweater with a different yarn, either suri alpaca, or just lace alpaca !
With all those gorgeous, soft beige knits out there, it is difficult not to want to make one. But I also don't suit beige, nor can I wear mohair. I appreciated your honest reviews.
I usually have the worst itch around my neck with mohair sweaters, and what my mom recommended is seaming a piece of silk fabric on the inside so mohair doesn't have direct contact with the skin! I haven't tried it yet but it might be an option if you're really attached to the sweater.
Looks like you have discovered what types of yarn, especially mohair and colors to avoid for future projects. I only wore my first sweater twice because it was much too itchy unless I wore a turtleneck under it which I can’t tolerate either. I now know to knit only with merino or other very soft yarns
I have so many sweaters that just eat me alive with how itchy they are, but putting a long sleeve tshirt under them and keeping them only for cold enough weather makes it work and because I don’t wear them all the time they look very good even years later!
will try and find some long sleeve shirts that are thick enough, cause some of them i can still feel the prickle! but yea the jumpers look pristine at least lol
Hi Vanissia, I have similar colouring to you and any neutrals even grey wash me out! Try and get your self assessed. I discovered I'm a spring and when I wear spring colours I get so many compliments. I think this would be a massive help to you.
@thewoollyworker thank you for your podcast! I love watching them and you are always so positive and make beautiful pieces. Would love to see you knit a few spring colours!!
I love the sweater you are wearing. What pattern is it? Also, I just wanted to mention that Nimble Needles has a great video on how to make ribbing look nice. It has helped me a lot. Love your knitting.
If I were you, I'd hang on the balloon sweater and the two Jessie Maed sweaters for sure. And probably the Florence Miller sweater (it looks great on you) and the April cardigan. As long as space is not an issue, why not - they're all beautiful. I would get a silk mock neck to wear under the balloon sweater and under the Florence MIller (or a cotton + spandex mock neck if the silk is too pricey). For the cozy classic, I would wear a nude body suit under it. Or a nude bralette (no hardware) if you don't like bodysuits. I think the April cardigan would look great over a blouse. And for the v-neck, since it's looser fitting, I think you could wear a deep v-neck t-shirt in a heavier cotton.
the bodysuits are a good idea! I think im just gonna redo the april and the balloon in different yarns, it's not a problem ! Space is becoming an issue aha
Very interesting and different episode. Most makers do not discuss the knits which they do not wear. I take a lot of time before I buy a pattern ,look at the fit, construction and materials cost . Just a thought - all colours do not suit everyone example I look washed out in mustard but look OK in pale yellow, again beige does not look nice on me but if colour is more like oatmeal it siuts me.
thank you, and yeah absolutely, there is a tendency to just talk about favourites. I'm going to try to really be mindful next year of what i decide to knit! And you're right about the slight nuances, need to find the exact shades but it's harder when buying online!
Hi Vanissia, my sister finds Uniqlo heatech (not the fleece or extra warm)tops allow her to wear itchy wools. It's a fine but dense material. Lovely to wear and very long-lasting. Worth a look maybe. They do various styles including vest tops. This podcast was really interesting, I think with experience you get to see past IG and designers photos. I so agree re all these knit/purl textured designs, not for me, but then I can't understand the Ranunculus love - I feel it flatters no-one. Looking forward to your New Year Livestream! Happy Christmas!
thank you! i have a couple from them that i love so will definitely buy more. And yea so true about IG! and i agree re the ranunculus aha ! not for me. Happy holidays!
base layers is what you need. from a Google search, Bam clothing have an "origin bamboo layering top" which looks pretty good (and I may pick up for myself now i've seen them!) and also Uniqlo tend to have quite good basics, and M&S too. Try and stick to natural fibres if you're prone to getting sweaty/overheating though!
Re the balloon sweater, how about wearing a thin turtleneck underneath, and saving it for outside adventures? It is really pretty, sad about the mohair, but you learned! Re the Primrose, yes it’s fun and adorable, I hope you can find the right under-shirts.
I think it might be just a tad too warm with a turtleneck! But I found someone to buy it so it works out, I'll definitely remake it with a suri !! Because i love it
I think this was important. People don't talk about their previous projects enough. I also agree with you on the mohair thing. My not worn things are the Basic Unravelry by Anna & Heidi Pickles. Their patterns are not well written and the math was totally off. In terms of yarn, mohair in general and the Jarbo 2 TR Ull specifically, were no go's for me. I also think 100% plant fibres are also a no for me.
This was really interesting! I get that the Pictus pullover is OVER for you but it does look really cute on you! I wouldn't be interested in knitting it because of some of the reasons that you don't like it. I have a kit to do the NorthWoods V-neck in the same yarn as the original! I still want to do it... I'm excited to see the roundup of all your other knits of the year!
I have also had loads of fails. My tessellated vest is waiting to be frogged. I just frogged a handspun shawl. I also give away a lot of knits that are just not for me. For someone out there for sure!
That was an interesting podcast, Vanissia ! Thank you so much for your honesty and caveats. I also do have problems with mohair but been tempted to use it nevertheless because it looks so beautiful. But I find it itchy and to warm, just like you do. My biggest returning failure is the neckline of my raglans. They always end up to loose. I wish you happy holidays, success with your live stream and lots of happy knitting in 2024 ! Looking forward for your knitting plans and podcasts…
Most necklines are too wide I find. I now knit the smallest size neck and add some quick increases. Mohair is far too itchy ... making a very lux decorative throw for my couch using all that luscious mohair yarn I've got in stash. Super episode.
Thank you for sharing! Being honest about your projects is truly helpful. Not everything we make turns out great and the sooner we can spot an issue the better. I've been a knitter for 20+ years and made many things: the good, the bad, and the ugly 😅 Your knits look great and fit great, but I see that the perfectionist in you is not quite happy. If I may, I'd like to make a few comments/suggestions. Feel free to disregard them! There is no knitting police and no one will judge anybody 🙃 1) Consider using smaller needles with alpaca yarns. It grows and stretches in every direction and the fabric may become really loose. Smaller needles help keep the finished fabric more tight. 2) Consider using wool (especially wool spun woolen) for textured patterns (like your first vest). All those bumps and cables look much better when knit with yarns that have memory (wool, cashmere, wool blends); alpaca has no memory and the textures knit with it have very little bounce and tend to look sad. 3) As a loose knitter (nothing wrong with that, by the way!), you need to be extra careful with your ribbing. The best solution I found is to always (!) pick the needles size 1.5mm smaller for all ribbing. Just subtract 1.5mm from your main needle size - even if the needles seem too small and the knitting feels awkward, the result will be great. 4) Consider picking colors that complement your skin tone. From what I see on the screen (if your technology and my technology did not distort colors too much), you have a fair skin tone with cool undertones (grayish, greenish). You can look up colors that will look great on you and they don't have to be super bright, if you don't like them. Consider trying cool blues and greens, soft pinks and purples, cool grays, charcoal, navy blue. If you really like soft neutrals, try taupe or blush. I am not an expert on colors and skin tones, but I know one good rule: the color of the garment should not match the skin tone exactly - it can make a person look pasty (in an unflattering way). If you don't want to do any research on colors, try finding a celebrity that has similar skin and hair color to yours and see what colors they wear and how they complement their skin tone (they pay lots of money to stylists to get it right). I think, Gwyneth Paltrow is a good match for you (and she often wears neutral colors!). Check out her photographs in different outfits, especially in the light pink/beige category: there are lots of great color choices and they help her stand out. 5) Lastly, dropping a project may seem "irresponsible" of "fickle", but if you sense that it's not going well and the result will not be exactly what you need, the best solution is to stop. Time is money and working more on something that is not going to turn out great or investing more money to help "save" a failing project is a bad idea. There is an expression, "throwing good money after bad" which illustrates this. Look up "sunk cost fallacy", if you are not familiar with this. I think, knitters often succumb to the pressure to "finish" or to "use up the yarns" that they bought and it overpowers their more critical and practical voice that tells them it's not going very well. I used to finish all my knits, regardless of how awful they were. Not anymore! Life is short and there are so many patterns and yarns to try, so if my project is not looking/feeling right, I quit immediately🤓 Thank you again for sharing! Happy New Year!
Out of desperation I put sheering elastic in some of my shop bought jumpers to alter the shape. It worked and lasted surprisingly well. I can crochet ok, but knitting still defeats me after nearly five decades. I’m trying again but can only just go backwards and forwards in stockinet. And then I drop the stitches and can’t pick them up. It’s so confusing. You are doing so well.
I love the Mist Sketch Sweater and I think it looks great on you. I am super sensitive to wool, I find the only wool I can wear is merino. It is expensive but worth it if you end up able to wear the sweaters. Mohair is the worst!
You are not alone!! I am not a fan of all-over texture! (or all-over colorwork, usually, but that's another story...) I don't like the visual bulk it creates. Your sweaters are lovely. Find good homes for them if you are sure you'll never wear them. They are too pretty to live in storage.
I always use a long sleeve t shirt or turtleneck or mock neck under my knits. If you find some cute ones, it can make your knit look even more stylish! I would recommend that you look for some type of cotton, viscose, polyester if you are sensitive to itching. I wouldn't recommend a thin merino or cashmere shirt, cause they can (and will) itch someone with sensitive skin, even if it says otherwise.
Great episode Vanissia. I’ve been knitting for 50 years and it is only been in the last few years that I am successfully making garments that work for my wardrobe. I think it takes a long time to know what shapes look good on your body and to acknowledge that at different times of your life you like different shapes. I have found with some sweaters that I did not like them initially after I made them but a year or two later, I did start wearing them and enjoyed them. I should also say that none of these were a waste of money. You have to remember how much enjoyment you got out of the knitting most of them. That has a value attached to it itself.
thank you so much for this comment Lisa, it really helps put things in perspective!
I agree
I see you and I play my 54 years' card ;0) my mum taught me to knit when I was 4. I have a very vivid memory of playing in front of the house. My dad called to me and said if I came in early for my bath I could do some knitting. I ran in so fast! I also remember knitting clothes for my Sindy( UK equivalent of Barbie).
@@india1422 😂
What a beautiful comment, thank you for sharing your wisdom about appreciating crafted projects!
One option for garments in colors you don’t like is over-dyeing it! A bottle of dye is usually quite affordable, and can dye multiple projects! I started buying dye a few months back and I want to dye so many things I don’t love anymore. I’ll get around to it eventually haha
thank ill definitely try this next year!
I would definitely recommend over dying the items you like the design of but not the color of you don't not have someone wanting them as is. The neutral shade should take color well, either warm or cool, depending on preferences, best wishes!
Even your "fails" are gorgeous and you should be proud of these accomplishments. Personally, I think giving the garments to your mom, if she will wear them, means you'll still be able to see them (and get them back later if you'd like) and know that they will be loved and used. Sometimes mohair tempers over time, so if your mom wears them for a bit, they may become a bit less itchy over time.
Very good point !! I will await her response to this offer aha, she did inherit my very first mohair jumper with drops kid silk for that exact reason !
i really appreciate your honesty about your knits! it's so comforting knowing that everyone has a "fail" knit piece and it's not something that just happens to me😅
thanks very much and yeah that was the goal!
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Interesting to look back and see what did not work, and then to fix it in the future.
My recommendations as a 60 year knitter.
1: always use a smaller needle for the ribbing. this is the traditional go-to solution for loose ribbing, so common a problem that all vintage patterns include it.
2: Don't use mohair!!!!! You don't like it (neither do I and am amazed how popular it is) but use a substitute or go 'plain'.
3: If you are not enjoying a knit project, STOP and do something else. Even a Test Knit - it is valid feedback. As you have paid for the yarn you are not doing the designer any harm.
4: work out what colours you do like and use them again and again - different mixes but basically the same and you will be pleased.
5: Like with Like - don't mix yarn types. There is a reason that cotton/wool mix feels so different - cotton is a completely different type of yarn - plant based, not animal. Does not stretch the same, does not take colour the same etc.
Having said all that, experience comes with time and I am sure this year you will have greater success. Mind you, 8 out of 33 is not bad.
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Thank you very much for all this advice !! Definitely a learning curve. At first i thought knitting was just about making stitches, but it's so much more, and there is so much to get better at, like fit and colouring !
I would just add "like with like" is not as important when it comes to shawls. That's the place I like to mix it up! Also wondering, what do you think about her using the twisted rib, in addition to downsizing needle size?
@@KarenStrickholm Twisted rib is not something I usually bother with. I don't enjoy ribbing so make it a simple (and short) as possible. So downsizing needles is usually enough for me.
When it comes to 'like with like' not only do I find it works better, but it certainly washes better. One time my husband knitted a jumper for our first grandson. He striped acrylic with wool. (separated by this time). When the parent washed it - it shrank in stripes....
Thank you for making this video. Over the last months and weeks I gifted quite a lot of my knitted garments and shawls to people that are dear to me: friends, family, hairdresser, etc. It gives me so much joy to give something I have made with my hands and good quality materials to someone who will hopefully love and use it more than I do. I enjoyed making it with the intention of loving and wearing it myself, but I don't enjoy having it in my closet if I find it itchy or not fitting well or in a color that doesn't make me happy. My recommendation is: let go of the items that are not your favorites, and enjoy your favorites to the max. There will always be more yarn, more patterns, more learning and more joy. There is plenty.
thanks for sharing, definitely something good about giving those things a nicer home where they will get used, as opposed to just staring at them all year and feeling guilty ! Will definitely be making more next year, so why keep these !
I really appreciate your honesty! It's so rare among knitting podcasters
Oh thank you! I try, aha!
If these were my projects I’d choose to Let them all go on to new owners. I’d let family pick first then the rest to the charity shop. I’d count them all as valuable lessons hard earned. Starting the New Year with no worries about past projects.
Very true and would probably be a weight off my shoulders to be honest!
Good idea. Other people who can wear them would love to have these beautiful knits.
Great idea! Start the year with a fresh project palette.
Oh my, I’m crushed for you. But I truly TRULY love your willingness to share your flops with us. It is extremely helpful to see, no matter how long we’ve been knitting. My suggestion (old enough by far to be your mom, and from years of crafting made my fair share of flops) will sound harsh but it’s really for the best. No matter why you don’t like the FOs, get them out of your house. period. If you love both color and content of the yarn, and I mean LOVE, go ahead and frog it and find a pattern you know fits your body. Everything else, find someone who adores the item, gift them with well wishes and move on. Saved items that we gaze on with guilt but never ACTUALLY utilize bring absolutely no value to our lives. Needlessly inflicting ourselves to all that went wrong just makes it worse. So, how to prevent future flops? Another viewer suggested having your colors done, great idea! Take that info and the list of fibers you can’t tolerate to heart and vow not to go down that path again. I look forward to the livestream for charity. You’re a treasure! 💜Blessings to you from Hilton Head SC USA.
thank you!! I do agree that id feel happier with them out of the house aha ! Big fan of that way of approaching life. This year will be all about colours and less neutrals! Or at least greys, which i prefer over beige !
Thank you so much for the honesty of this video Vanissia! It was so so refreshing. I find when I'm watching knitting podcasts and looking at beautiful FOs it's so easy to assume every project is perfect and I'm the only one who has projects that don't really work out..! Good to know that it happens to all of us knitters and it's just a part of the learning process in discovering what works and what doesn't! It seems like a lot of your flops could be fixed with some nice undergarments - have you tried Uniqlo? Not expensive and great for layers.
Really looking forward to the stream! X
Thank you for the recommendation and kind words, I really wanted to shed a light on the not-so-good aspects of knitting as it can be easy to get caught up in the "perfect image" of social media ! And all the comments are reassuring me I'm not alone in that, so it works both way!
Thank you Vanissia, very interesting to see what you didn’t like among your projects. I think that they are all very beautiful and I hope that some of your second chances will work out and that the rest will find another happy owner.
Just want you to know that I’m very thankful to you for the episode on how to use Ravelry, it really inspired me and showed me how useful it can be, so now I have my whole stash catalogued and am adding my projects bit by bit, you are a very good teacher and I see you as a fantastic influence in the knitting community.
awww i'm so glad to hear you say that !! Thank you for taking the time i really appreciate it and it's all worth it!
A tip for underlayers, I really like uniqlo heattech, they are super thin so won't look bulky under any sweaters and have a scooped neck option that I find is not visible under almost any neckline! Really enjoyed this video as a beginner knitter, and learnt that I should probably avoid mohair!
thanks, yeah i have one and i love it !! And yeah maybe try your hand with one small item but it's definitely not for everyone, despite what instagram makes it look like lol
I second this! I basically live in Uniqlo heattech which I wear under everything. I’m surprised people can wear woollen sweaters on their skin, even cashmere would be too itchy for me without an underlayer. It also helps keeping your woollen sweaters cleaner!
I was cleaning house and listening to this podcast for the first time and was stopped dead in my tracks when you said this...."I don't want this garment or the yarn in my house anymore".
I had to laugh at your level of revulsion towards this vest project. I can totally relate to those "ugh" projects! Subscribed.
hahahaha aw im glad it made you laugh ! Hope you enjoy the podcast :D
One way to soften rough/rustic wools is to give them a long soak (like an hour or more) with a good amount of hair conditioner (any cheap conditioner will work). It doesn't make them merino soft, but it can improve their texture quite a bit. I've also read about people softening mohair by freezing it. It might be worth some research.
thanks! maybe ill try soaking them in conditioner !
Not that many videos where people share their experience with the garment after they presented it in the master class 😏 Thank you! It made me feel I’m not alone 😂 I have a few items knitted last year that I wore once and never touched again.
I learned how to knit at age 7, I’m 58 now. I put attention that I simple patterns are usually more wearable. It’s boring to knit them, and usually with small needles, and thus longer process, but they fit better, easy to match with different bottoms, they look more expensive, and they are timeless. When I choose some complicated pattern, it may be fun to knit, but… I do not wear it 🫤 2 most worn sweaters are from bouclé yarn, 100% wool, I bought it for really cheap in eBay 😊 it’s old stock, French yarn, probably from 70s-80s based on the label. So my advice - look at such market places, I do not know what you have in the UK except eBay, I live in the US.
Regarding mohair… polyamide mohair is itchy, makes you sweaty, like all synthetic fibers do. Mohair on silk is soft and creates pleasant feel on skin. It’s more expensive but usually 100g enough for small size sweater oversized fit. Cheaper mohair is great to mix with plain yarn like merino wool or bamboo, cotton, etc. One thread in the mix doesn’t make the whole garment itchy but creates more soft look for the sweater.
For the seethrough pullovers I use camisoles. I do not allow myself to show bra, not because of age, I never liked it, even when it was kind of trendy 🙄 . Uniqlo has good camisoles, with builtin bra and without, with wide straps to cover bra straps. It’s very useful item for warm and cold weather, good as an undergarment and as a top with cardigan, shirt
thank you! That was all super insightful and useful to read. I appreciate your experience and knoweldge about these things! Will definitely stock up on the uniqlo :p
What a great idea for an episode! It's rare people talk about what didn't turn out as planned. My personal fail is my Leith cardigan : I think the fit is awful on me, absolutely hated knitting the double knit button band and it doesn't look so neat (probably my bad here but still). I am really sad because I thought Rebecca was looking so cute in her version. Thankfully I like the yarn so I am thinking of unraveling the whole thing and knit another striped sweater. I would wear your Jessie Made sweater knitted with you Zakamy yarn with either a beige bra or camisole. Just love this sweater. 😊 And Merry Christmas! 🎉
Thank you! And that's a shame, especially when you're extra excited about the project and have a vision for it! But yeah i thought it was helpful to also consider the money, time, and enjoyment spent on it, to see if there was any redeeming factors, and some of those projects i still very much enjoyed making ! Will try and find those camisoles ! Merry christmas :D
@@thewoollyworkerdid you think of changing it to zipper instead of button?
@@louisebb4183 Good idea: will try that before unravelling!
I feel you on this so much!! I made so many beige garments and then I realized it didn’t suit me at all. Now, I knit colorful things or charcoal and black. I have to keep myself from looking at beige-fluencers 😂 I also don’t do test knits anymore. I will pay the money for a finished pattern that I can finish on my own time and see the projects of others for. Not having to apply and make a decision under pressure makes me make better garment decisions.
I agree with this a lot !!
Thank you for sharing your experience with your knits. It's actually very good that the vast majority were hits, not fails.
Looking forward to your live ❤
thank you very much !
This episode popped up and I listened for a bit and immediately subscribed. Your honesty is appreciated but your ability to convey your thoughts so quickly on the fly is especially impressive. I have tried to make videos before and I'm full of Umms and ahs. I can also appreciate the fails as I've been knitting for 48 years. i can also relate to wanting to love a garment. @Lisafall is absolutely right about the enjoyment of knitting but don't forget about the life lessons you learn too.. they are hidden within the fabric, guaranteed. Happy knitting! from Canada.🍁
aww thank you, that made my day !! I have definitely gotten better at podcasting with practice, i was full of ummmms before ! Happy knitting :D
I really enjoyed this episode, your honesty is so refreshing. And you made me laugh many times, ”I do not want this garment or the wool in my house anymore” 😂. I totally relate to that feeling. I once binned a completed project because I had that feeling.
Thank you so much! I really like watching other content where people talk about the not-so-great aspects so I want to make sure I don't avoid it aha !
Thanks for taking the time to put this together, love listening to all your comments and seeing your makes. Happy New Year.
thank you so much and happy holidays!
Thank you for another great one. You have such a detailed and thoughtful way of thinking about your knitting. 😊 can’t wait for 2 January 😊
Thank you so much!
Oh wow! I learned so much about finding the right yarn. While watching this podcast, I noticed your knitting skills are superb! Can you recommend videos of how you pick up stitches. Necklines appear to be the biggest issues for all of us. Thank you!
thank you! I have linked a nice tutorial for making a nice neck edge in my project page for the Lakes Pullover on my ravelry, but other than that, usually a 2 out of 3 pick up ratio. I think Roxanne Richardson has some videos on picking up stitches!
Great episode again thanks Vanissia. Good idea to run through the garments not worn and focussing on why. SO important for all of us to learn so we can refine our knitting selections! Lighting personally of no concern to me....too interested in what you are saying to even notice 🥰Your Holly sweater looks gorgeous - well done for finishing 👍
thank you for all this! And yeah definitely wanted to take a moment to pause and think about WHY !
You are a breath of fresh air as I sometimes think it’s only me that finds I’m not happy with my finished garments for some reason or other but I do enjoy the process. I have sensitive skin also and need to wear undergarments. I have long sleeve round neck tees also I bought very fine long sleeved tops with a higher neck from Primark to wear under my rustic wool Arans. They work well for me. They were £8 so not dear. I do knit with acrylic/wool mixes and even they itch me. Years ago I knitted with mohair cost a fortune and found I couldn’t wear it so wouldn’t even try again I do love the look mind you. Great podcast as always have a happy 2024 x
awww thank you so much !! I love the look of mohair too, but then it would be a nice saving if i stopped using it lol! Happy new year :D x
Rosamunde has thin tops that work both during the summer and winter. They're made of bourette silk and merino. I love them for layering.
Good to know!
It is not a crime to knit and not like the result, it is an awful feeling when something you have put so much time in is worthless. I love your videos, just dont be hard on yourself. You are a very fine knitter.
thank you so much ! x
This is a great episode. I love the analysis of how things can flop for yourself. And I'm taking a lot out of it here. Looking forward to more of these kinds of videos to learn more about it ✨🐑
so glad you enjoyed it! And yeah i really like to analyse my knitting so more to follow!
Great episode Vanissia, thank you! The subjects you pick for your extra episodes are great, they’ve really think about my knitting choices, past present and future, in a different way.
thank you so much for saying! I do have a lot of fun making these extra episodes so hope to do many more next year!
Really interesting listening to this episode. We learn so much from our mistakes!
thank you, and yes for sure!
I love the Teti’s garden on you! It sounds like yarn sensitivity is something for you to consider in the future. But I love these on you! I wish I were your mom! 😄😄
aw thank you! and yes ive definitely learned my lesson now and will really consider before buying those yarns, even if i am attracted to them !
I am surprised you're not cold enough in Scotland to wear mohair. I spent this past summer in Edinburgh and I was definitely not warm enough most of the time 😂 so back in London now 😂
And I am also surprised you're not wearing any of these, I love them all!
I think if I spent more time outside I would, but even if I'm walking, i warm up, and then in places, they have the heating on, so I just never feel like it's what I need !
Really enjoyed this! It’s great to hear you’re a loose knitter. I’m a self-taught clumsy knitter which I’m working on with TH-cam & ravelry. I started off a very tight knitter and worked hard to loosen my gauge, worried I’d gone too far - after listening to you I’ve a better idea how to adapt it and feel more confident.
thanks and yeah i feel i hear a lot about tight knitters and sometimes felt a bit alone and like most of the advice didnt apply to me, so it's nice to hear other people having looser tension out there !
Just found your channel while scrolling ! And of course subscribed😊
Aw I am glad !!
C'était très courageux de ta part de faire un épisodes sur tes "flops", même si certains sont vraiment très beaux. Je pense que tu as besoin d'avoir plus de caracos et de débardeurs dans ta vie, de jolis sous-vêtements en coton/élastane peuvent t'aider à porter tes pulls plus facilement. As-tu pensé à t'offrir un test de colorimétrie, ou à le faire toi-même ? C'est bien utile pour déterminer les couleurs qui nous vont. Bises Vanissia.
merci beaucoup! Et oui, tu as bien raison! J'ai fait un mini-test en ligne et je suis "printemps" mais ce serait chouette d'avoir un test encore plus professionel, je trouve ca super interessant et ca pourrait payer au long terme ! Peut etre en 2024 ...
I made one garment with mohair and after sweating and realizing it's just too warm/itchy, I pass on most mohair combos... Sad because I like the halo effect mohair gives. If you re-do the slipover neckline, I think it would look good to omit the mohair since it can match the hem.
I enjoyed the vid! Sometimes people wax poetic about their makes, so kinda refreshing to hear you speak on how some patterns/yarn combos don't get worn beyond a completion photo.
I definitely will undo the neckline and redo it without the mohair !! Will be a nice objective. And I'm glad you enjoyed the topic, I feel like there's a bit too much "perfection" out there aha !
Thanks for this view of the "other side" of knitting. I've got a big pile of fails, while over the years I've been learning what suits me and fits me. I too am in the no-moh camp - so itchy. A good substitute is CaMaRose Midnatssol (or other suri blends, I suppose, but this is the one I've used). Happy New Year!
Gabo Wool Baby silk yak is softer and slightly thicker than midnatssol if you're open to some new adventures. It is the only fuzzy yarn I can wear without discomfort.
Thank you for this video, we all can learn so much from discussing what doesn’t work for us. Your knitting is beautiful and I am always interested to see what you are working on.
Thank you so much!
hi, I love this podcast.
There is another option: over-dying a finished garment in a dark color.
ohh thanks, good idea!
Happy Holidays! See you on the 2nd for sure 😊
Same to you!
Thanks for passing on the wisdom that cost you time and money to learn. You've summed up perfectly how I feel about holding silk mohair with another yarn. I see many v-neck cardigans in my future, using up my stash mohair. 🎉
thank you and yes, definitely using the stash but being mindful of what to avoid, and then not buying anymore!
Terrific episode, I feel we can all learn from each other and help one another make better informed decisions. In your case, it seems it was mostly the feel of the fabric that bothered you. Going forward, I’d love to hear how you navigate the scratchy factor!
Not to make your life more complicated, but I actually thought the colorwork pullover looked super cute on you! Maybe steeking would be an option, as you said. Then you’d more obviously wear something under it that could show, but you’d not lose all the hard work. I think we ALL have maker flops. Its part of the process. This was interesting to see.
thank you, definitely choosing different yarns now and being more mindful! My mum has now claimed the pictus so at least it will get loved !
Great video Vanissia! I love your honesty and thoughts on what you would change. In terms of base layers, I don't know if you have a uniqlo near you but I really like their underlayers for my knits. I run cold so in the winter i like their thin thermals, but they also have the AIRism brand which are really thin and come in a range of colours for a range of skin types. They are seamless and have low necklines so would hide under the lower knits. Hope that helps!
yes i will definitely try more of their stuff !! They are very seamless. Thanks!
Great thanks I love your finished objects
Thank you! 😊
Many of your "fails" looked so good on you but it's really about what YOU feel best in, isn't it?! Thanks for sharing your journey!
thank you, and yeah it can be very personal !
Great insights! Such a good idea to reflect on what didn't work as that will help with project & yarn choices in future to give you the knitted wardrobe of your dreams.
So true!
Thanks for this episode, I think it helps us to know that we are not the only person who is not always happy with our projects. I have found there’s always a little voice in my head telling me when something is not going to work, but it took me a while to start listening to it 😂. I used to think, but what if I do this or use this other yarn instead, etc., and really tried to make things work. But they usually didn’t. So now when, when I hear that voice telling me “this yarn is not right”, or “I’m not sure I like this color”, I have learned to stop and put it aside for a week or so. Then when I come back to it, it’s easier to see what’s not right, some times it’s as simple as changing needle size to get a loser/tighter fabric, and sometimes it’s realizing wrong yarn for this project, but either way it’s better pushing on and finishing something you won’t wear.
Your sweaters are all beautiful, so sorry they didn’t work for you. For the ones where it is the mohair that is bothering you, have you tried washing/blocking them a few times to see if they will soften up? This worked for me with a wool sweater that I found itchy. I’ve heard some people even use hair conditioner to soften their wool, but I don’t know if it works on mohair.
So true! And ive not found washing/conditioner to help much with mohair sadly! It's more about how high the neckline is and what i am wearing underneath that can help!
It was good to see your honest appraisal of knits that didn't work for you. Re the v-neck stripey sweater that you need an under-layer for, perhaps an old-fashioned English "vest", a cotton but stretchy undergarment that you'd easily find in Marks & Spencers. I do like your colour choices - they are unusual and fun.
Thanks for the tip! Will have a browse
Very thoughtful and valuable review of knitting projects that missed the mark for you. I have a possible source for under-layering garments that you may not have thought of: uniform shops. I don't know where you live, but often medical techs and nurses wear V-neck scrubs that are too chilly in the winter to wear alone, so there is an entire line of base-layer wear that is non-bulky and next-to-skin comfortable (flexible, breathable, etc.) for all day wear, designed to be worn under scrubs. Maybe you could find something there instead of in regular clothing shops. I agree with what others have said here also: Stop knitting with mohair. haha. I'm the same as you, can't stand the prickle, I find it extremely itchy, even within minutes of putting it on.
that is a fantastic idea and exactly what i was looking for !! thanks a million ! And yes, im glad i put it out there that im gonna stop using mohair because you will all help me stay accountable and i cant keep flip flopping aha !
Thanks for another interesting episode. We all make things that don’t fit, are the wrong colour, size etc. That’s how we learn I guess. When things don’t turn out how I want I usually reknit them and if still don’t work I frog them and do something else with the wool.
For an under layer I recommend a fine silk long sleeved tshirt, or one in cotton, or a cotton mix. Uniqlo have fabulous base layers and are not expensive. Sunspel have beautiful fine cotton tshirts but are a bit more expensive.
thank you very much for the tips! And good to know im not alone in making the "wrong" things every now and then! Impressive that you can follow through your idea to the very end!
Hi Vanissia - thank you so much for sharing your experiences, what a great video!
I am also at a place, where I am "auditing" my hand-knit garments. One more thing to consider, when you have knit something and don't like the colour, is overdyeing the piece. I don't have a big dyeing setup, so what I do is simply using the fabric dyes from the drug store. I know Dylon has dye for hand-washing (rather than using the machine-dye). It is always a risk, but has paid off for me so far :) - also for colour, I generally go for navy, as it is a dark enough colour, has more dimension than black, looks fine in different shades and goes well with everything in my wardrobe.
Regarding under layers - I almost always wear a long sleeve top under my hand-knits. My favourites are the heattech turtlenecks (or boat-neck, when the sweater has a lower neck) from UNIQLO , and they have lasted me for years. They do add a lot of extra warmth though, so if it is already to warm for you, maybe look into some of their other options :)
thanks for the recommendations!! i sense some clothes shopping soon ... and i would like to try overdying one day for that very reason! I got some rit dye
Great episode Vanissia. How about putting a fleece lining on the neck of the sweaters that have mohair so it won’t bother you anymore ? I know it might be a little hotter but you might be able to wear it on the coldest days ?
Love your channel. 💖
seems like above my skill level but that's a really good idea !!
This was really interesting! I need to go through my sweater wardrobe too. For sure you are NOT alone in this…we all have knitting fails. It is ok to let them go. I think the biggest take-away is to carefully consider choosing the right yarn for the project. For you in particular, paying attention to whether you can wear it next to skin. Merino is always good I think. I would also consider trying Cormo as a comfortable yarn to wear.
thank you very much, and yes definitely need to be more picky and really think about what i choose to knit with !
This is such a great helpful video for us all.
If you don’t have great homes for these wonderful garments you might develop a small for sale wardrobe and recoup the yarn price.
The ones you don’t like and don’t feel good from itch factor or shape should find good homes but all taught you.
It’s very hard to look at sweater designs and photos and translate what would look good on us. Part of the fun is creating our choices so they are experimental but you will learn what are your strong points are in all the areas. Especially as you are so prolific.
As I am older and been long out of knitting I wouldn’t dare knit a style I had not worn before to see if I even like it or could wear it with my body. So I would go looking and trying on similar styles in a shop that would be potential to knit.
Somehow my best looking clothes were ones I decided I was looking for in my head first as looking good on me and would fill a definite need in my wardrobe. Then the variables to decide how to make it and modify it and what similar patterns there are to choose from give me tons of info. Same in knitting as sewing.
And you looked cute and so much better than you think in your photo ops even the ones you hated most. You have a cute shape and manner so with adjustments with color contrastes under or belted you could style them differently.
I have your same coloring and took years to figure out how to not just bright color shop but intensity or saturated colors looked great.
You could make a sweater vault with your rejects (that are comfortable to wear) so that you can set them aside and consider them in a different light in a year. And then Decide.
You are so smart and interesting and helpful.
Thank you for all your videos. We all need these things to think about as we are creating one of a kind garments. As I am out of the newest knitting loop until recently I have been watching knitters just to learn what yarns do what and what ways to use them. Blending yarns is totally new and partially responsible for the sensitivities we have with mohair, etc and the price of garments we knit. Again, kudos for leading the pack in honesty and how to 🎉🎉❤better knit for our own bodies and wardrobes. These aren’t failures, possibly good marketing photos being successful in enticing the product and you are learning at a rapid pace.
Thanks for taking us along. Upping the game for everyone.
i know it's very late, but thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment ! very appreciated !
I'm. always knitting sweaters for myself that I never wear. Too small, too big, sleeve issues, itchy, wrong color. Your video has inspired me to take the time to figure out what is wrong and make more garments that I will wear in 2024. Thank you.
oh you're welcome ! sorry to hear you've also struggled with lots of different things not being quite right ! good luck in the future :D
You are such an extraordinary knitter! I love the end of the year videos and it is nice to see how others handle f.o.s that are unsuccessful. I definitely have some of those and am toying with the idea of frogging certain ones. I will definitely try tune in for the stream.
Thank you so much! Makes me really happy to hear, and wow, ive never frogged an entire one, so yeah also getting ready for this idea aha!
There‘s a vieeo by Norman from Nimble Needles about tendion in ribbing where he goes in depth explaining the issue. It helped me a ton!
Another option might be to knit twosted rib instead which for me comes out very neat. It‘s mire work though.
thanks will look into that video!
This is a great video. It’s really made me think about how much I wear my knits and consider my future knitting plans a bit more carefully.
For under layer I have two suggestions that work for me:
One is boatneck t-shirt under a slightly more open round neckline.
The other of for the cosy classic light, a skin tone camisole or vest, it hides the shape of the bra pretty well but it isn’t super obvious or too warm.
thanks for the tips! really helpful
I enjoyed watching this video, and seeing your projects from last year. Listening to you, it sounds like you may want to only
create projects out of your favorite yarns that your skin doesn't have a sensitivity to. You may enjoy the finished project so
much more. But honestly, the projects you showed in this video all look really great on you. You do lovely work, and I look
forward to watching more of your videos ( I just joined your channel).
thank you so much! And yes, definitely learned a lot from this past year and want to focus on yarns ive tried and tested and love, instead of trying new things all the time aha!
Loved this video! Helpful to share that we all have some flops. I think the mist sketch looks great on you so hopefully that one can find a new life. Shape and colour are really nice.
thank you! And yes it's my favourite colour of all of these !!
New here. I love the new trend of bringing up the ones not used and why. I really think you look better in colors, where you get a bit of contrast to your skintone. The burgundy in the video is lovely on you!
thanks ! I love to hear the truth too, even if it's not as rosey. And yes, i think I want a bit more colour now!
This video is not for knitters who are looking for info on the do’s and dont’s of knitting certain types of patterns.
Thought this was about actual fails but you made all your items beautifully and perfectly and also seemed very impressed with your work. I totally misunderstood what this video was about.
aw no, sorry for the misunderstanding ! definitely was more of a "it's not badly done, but i don't like it" failure ! i don't think i would ever finish something if i knew it wasn't looking wearable
Great video! I have some long sleeve bamboo underlayers. I originally bought them for hiking as an underlayers but they are just perfect for wearing under my knitwear! So far I have only bought from BAM and I'm veryhappy with them
thank you! I've never tried bamboo underlayers ! Will try and have a look :)
As for underlayers I usually use uniqlo heattech (the very thin ones) they come in skin and neutral colors, and in different types of neck cuts (i like boat and big scoop necks but they also have some more options) Plus they help regulate heat !
yes!! i have a couple that i love, i really need to get more!!
I was going to say that too! But if you struggle with being overheated then I'd suggest their summer line, Airism. Those are very sleek under layers, although they might not have as much neck coverage as the heattech turtlenecks. But as long as you don't get the extra warm version of heat tech you should be fine because they're pretty thin, which is nice, but I think the mohair would still poke through though 😢
The green isager with the colourful yoke is really nice and now that you've altered the funnel neckline I hope you give it a whirl. It looks really good.
I feel the same way about mohair as you...I understand the temptation because it looks good.
glad to know im not alone !!
honestly a really easy fix for the balloon sweater is to wear a white turtleneck under it and use the balloon sweater essentially as an outerwear piece. it's already warm as you said, and you don't really want to be wearing a jacket OVER it, so why not use it AS the jacket? plus having a soft garment under it, with long sleeves and a high neck, will protect your skin from the mohair and reduce itching.
thanks ! I think that could be good to try !
I'm not normally a watcher of knitting videos but this popped up in my feed and I was interested. The main theme of this vid for me (apart from mohair hehe) was colour. You have beautiful bright cool-toned skin; cream, brown, beige and warm greens are not your friends. Cool, light, clear colours like pastel pink, blue, aqua, and icy grays and whites would look amazing on you.
thank you! I agree that beige is really not my neutral, but blues and greys are great! Would love to try more pastel pinks this year and maybe aqua/etc !
Thank you for this episode, it is good to know I am nit the only one that has knitted something that turned out less “successful”. Suggestion for your ribbing challenge: try twisted ribbing - I also had similar challenge to you & changed to twisted ribbing and that solved the problem for me. Thank you for your honesty about what you consider “flops”, we call those ones “paying school fees”😊. Have a blessed 2024!
yes i love twisted rib!! next tip im gonna try is to do the ribbing from the wrong side !
I love a sea of stockinette. Hours of knit, knit in the round is my zen.
that can definitely be nice in the right conditions for me aha
I always wear a silk undergarment with my wool or wool blend knits--best investment i ever made. The silk is very thin and provides the perfect protection from itchy fabrics. I also stay away from alpaca because it doesn't hold shape, and mohair because I don't like to fuzzy look it creates and I'm worried about it being too irritating to wear. Every knit poster I've seen wearing their mohair garments constantly are trying to remove the mohair from their nose, eyes, mouth, etc. Mohair has a place in socks, but I wouldn't use it for much else. Just my opinion.
thank you and yes, i really wish we could move away from mohair being the "standard" in popular patterns, and more of a one-off that we do sometimes, otherwise it can feel like it's a must ! I've been quite slow to de-influence myself and im glad i reached those conclusions. Definitely a learning curve for substituting fibers !
I totally understand how a garment just doesn't feel right but most of your fails actually look great on you (not a fan of the first vest). Especially the Pictus. It's not my style at all but the way you wore it in the video looks really good on you!
Uniqlo makes some very thin undergarments that I really like. Definitely worth checking out. I made one lovely crew neck sweater in a beige that doesn't suit me at all. I am not ready to part with it so I have been wearing it with tiny little silk scarfs in great colours to get the beige away form my face and it works quite well. This could also help with itchiness around the neck.
Excited for January 2nd!
Thank you!! Will try to stock up on the uniqlo and maybe wear the little scarves to help with the lack of colour !
Merry Christmas Vanissia, Isn't it funny how we see ourselves. I think the Pictus, looks stunning on you! I think it's the silhoutte, you look like a a ballerina in it, it really suits your posture. The april Cardigan is gorgeous on you, too. The costy classic light looks amazing on you, but I guess that doesn't address the itch factor. I think its the Yellow stripe in the V neck jumper that kind of jars when you look at it, It's still beautifully made as are all of your knits. I'd love to see you knit with less neutrals and more colour. As you have fair skin and hair I think you need to add warmth with colour rather than wash out with neutrals, but, again that's just how I see you. I really enjoyed this episode, you're very generous with your podcasts. Happy New Year x
aw thank you, the ballerina comment made me smile aha! Definitely will focus on colour this year and im super excited for it ! Happy new year :D
Very good episode. Very interesting. I think the Balloon sweater is beautiful and it will be a shame if you can't make that work for you. I agree with you about the Pictus pullover. I think it might work as a cardigan but perhaps it would look good on a friend that likes to wear a lot of dresses. I like the Cosy Classic light so I would try and find something to go under it. Thanks for a great episode.
thank you for sharing your thoughts! I think im just gonna have to remake the balloon sweater with a different yarn, either suri alpaca, or just lace alpaca !
With all those gorgeous, soft beige knits out there, it is difficult not to want to make one. But I also don't suit beige, nor can I wear mohair. I appreciated your honest reviews.
thanks, and good to know im not alone in this !
I usually have the worst itch around my neck with mohair sweaters, and what my mom recommended is seaming a piece of silk fabric on the inside so mohair doesn't have direct contact with the skin! I haven't tried it yet but it might be an option if you're really attached to the sweater.
ohhhh maybe !!
Looks like you have discovered what types of yarn, especially mohair and colors to avoid for future projects. I only wore my first sweater twice because it was much too itchy unless I wore a turtleneck under it which I can’t tolerate either. I now know to knit only with merino or other very soft yarns
yes definitely trial and error !
Great episode!! Loved hearing your insights 😊
Thanks so much!
I have so many sweaters that just eat me alive with how itchy they are, but putting a long sleeve tshirt under them and keeping them only for cold enough weather makes it work and because I don’t wear them all the time they look very good even years later!
will try and find some long sleeve shirts that are thick enough, cause some of them i can still feel the prickle! but yea the jumpers look pristine at least lol
Hi Vanissia, I have similar colouring to you and any neutrals even grey wash me out! Try and get your self assessed. I discovered I'm a spring and when I wear spring colours I get so many compliments. I think this would be a massive help to you.
yes i think im a spring too, and will try and buy more yarns that reflect that !!
@thewoollyworker thank you for your podcast! I love watching them and you are always so positive and make beautiful pieces. Would love to see you knit a few spring colours!!
I love the sweater you are wearing. What pattern is it? Also, I just wanted to mention that Nimble Needles has a great video on how to make ribbing look nice. It has helped me a lot. Love your knitting.
thank you! it's the Syrah Sweater by Tricot Design MCL, and I will look into those videos then!
What a fun video to watch - it's a shame that your have such a sensitivity to mohair. 33 garments! I can not believe you knit so much in 1 year.
thank you! And yeah me neither to be honest
If I were you, I'd hang on the balloon sweater and the two Jessie Maed sweaters for sure. And probably the Florence Miller sweater (it looks great on you) and the April cardigan. As long as space is not an issue, why not - they're all beautiful. I would get a silk mock neck to wear under the balloon sweater and under the Florence MIller (or a cotton + spandex mock neck if the silk is too pricey). For the cozy classic, I would wear a nude body suit under it. Or a nude bralette (no hardware) if you don't like bodysuits. I think the April cardigan would look great over a blouse. And for the v-neck, since it's looser fitting, I think you could wear a deep v-neck t-shirt in a heavier cotton.
the bodysuits are a good idea! I think im just gonna redo the april and the balloon in different yarns, it's not a problem ! Space is becoming an issue aha
Very interesting and different episode. Most makers do not discuss the knits which they do not wear. I take a lot of time before I buy a pattern ,look at the fit, construction and materials cost .
Just a thought - all colours do not suit everyone example I look washed out in mustard but look OK in pale yellow, again beige does not look nice on me but if colour is more like oatmeal it siuts me.
thank you, and yeah absolutely, there is a tendency to just talk about favourites. I'm going to try to really be mindful next year of what i decide to knit! And you're right about the slight nuances, need to find the exact shades but it's harder when buying online!
Hi Vanissia, my sister finds Uniqlo heatech (not the fleece or extra warm)tops allow her to wear itchy wools. It's a fine but dense material. Lovely to wear and very long-lasting. Worth a look maybe. They do various styles including vest tops. This podcast was really interesting, I think with experience you get to see past IG and designers photos. I so agree re all these knit/purl textured designs, not for me, but then I can't understand the Ranunculus love - I feel it flatters no-one. Looking forward to your New Year Livestream! Happy Christmas!
thank you! i have a couple from them that i love so will definitely buy more. And yea so true about IG! and i agree re the ranunculus aha ! not for me. Happy holidays!
base layers is what you need. from a Google search, Bam clothing have an "origin bamboo layering top" which looks pretty good (and I may pick up for myself now i've seen them!) and also Uniqlo tend to have quite good basics, and M&S too. Try and stick to natural fibres if you're prone to getting sweaty/overheating though!
Thank you, definitely will raid M&S next time I am there! And yeah, cotton might be the way to go, or silk !
Re the balloon sweater, how about wearing a thin turtleneck underneath, and saving it for outside adventures? It is really pretty, sad about the mohair, but you learned!
Re the Primrose, yes it’s fun and adorable, I hope you can find the right under-shirts.
I think it might be just a tad too warm with a turtleneck! But I found someone to buy it so it works out, I'll definitely remake it with a suri !! Because i love it
I think this was important. People don't talk about their previous projects enough. I also agree with you on the mohair thing. My not worn things are the Basic Unravelry by Anna & Heidi Pickles. Their patterns are not well written and the math was totally off. In terms of yarn, mohair in general and the Jarbo 2 TR Ull specifically, were no go's for me. I also think 100% plant fibres are also a no for me.
Thank you! And yes I agree! I have mixed feelings about what I knitted in Drops Belle, i wasn't as impressed as other people seemed to be!
This was really interesting! I get that the Pictus pullover is OVER for you but it does look really cute on you! I wouldn't be interested in knitting it because of some of the reasons that you don't like it. I have a kit to do the NorthWoods V-neck in the same yarn as the original! I still want to do it... I'm excited to see the roundup of all your other knits of the year!
thank you and omg i love the original colours and yarn, i bet you're gonna love it!
I have also had loads of fails. My tessellated vest is waiting to be frogged. I just frogged a handspun shawl. I also give away a lot of knits that are just not for me. For someone out there for sure!
aw what a shame! And i've never completely unravelled a project so that would be a first for me. I think I'd rather give them away!
That was an interesting podcast, Vanissia ! Thank you so much for your honesty and caveats. I also do have problems with mohair but been tempted to use it nevertheless because it looks so beautiful. But I find it itchy and to warm, just like you do. My biggest returning failure is the neckline of my raglans. They always end up to loose. I wish you happy holidays, success with your live stream and lots of happy knitting in 2024 ! Looking forward for your knitting plans and podcasts…
Thanks for the kind words and for sharing!! Good to know im not alone in getting caught up in the mohair craze aha. Wishing you happy knitting too !!
❤
Most necklines are too wide I find. I now knit the smallest size neck and add some quick increases. Mohair is far too itchy ... making a very lux decorative throw for my couch using all that luscious mohair yarn I've got in stash. Super episode.
Can you follow Retroclaude's example and try soaking the objects in a conditioner of some kind?
i will try that!
Thank you for sharing! Being honest about your projects is truly helpful. Not everything we make turns out great and the sooner we can spot an issue the better. I've been a knitter for 20+ years and made many things: the good, the bad, and the ugly 😅 Your knits look great and fit great, but I see that the perfectionist in you is not quite happy. If I may, I'd like to make a few comments/suggestions. Feel free to disregard them! There is no knitting police and no one will judge anybody 🙃
1) Consider using smaller needles with alpaca yarns. It grows and stretches in every direction and the fabric may become really loose. Smaller needles help keep the finished fabric more tight.
2) Consider using wool (especially wool spun woolen) for textured patterns (like your first vest). All those bumps and cables look much better when knit with yarns that have memory (wool, cashmere, wool blends); alpaca has no memory and the textures knit with it have very little bounce and tend to look sad.
3) As a loose knitter (nothing wrong with that, by the way!), you need to be extra careful with your ribbing. The best solution I found is to always (!) pick the needles size 1.5mm smaller for all ribbing. Just subtract 1.5mm from your main needle size - even if the needles seem too small and the knitting feels awkward, the result will be great.
4) Consider picking colors that complement your skin tone. From what I see on the screen (if your technology and my technology did not distort colors too much), you have a fair skin tone with cool undertones (grayish, greenish). You can look up colors that will look great on you and they don't have to be super bright, if you don't like them. Consider trying cool blues and greens, soft pinks and purples, cool grays, charcoal, navy blue. If you really like soft neutrals, try taupe or blush. I am not an expert on colors and skin tones, but I know one good rule: the color of the garment should not match the skin tone exactly - it can make a person look pasty (in an unflattering way). If you don't want to do any research on colors, try finding a celebrity that has similar skin and hair color to yours and see what colors they wear and how they complement their skin tone (they pay lots of money to stylists to get it right). I think, Gwyneth Paltrow is a good match for you (and she often wears neutral colors!). Check out her photographs in different outfits, especially in the light pink/beige category: there are lots of great color choices and they help her stand out.
5) Lastly, dropping a project may seem "irresponsible" of "fickle", but if you sense that it's not going well and the result will not be exactly what you need, the best solution is to stop. Time is money and working more on something that is not going to turn out great or investing more money to help "save" a failing project is a bad idea. There is an expression, "throwing good money after bad" which illustrates this. Look up "sunk cost fallacy", if you are not familiar with this. I think, knitters often succumb to the pressure to "finish" or to "use up the yarns" that they bought and it overpowers their more critical and practical voice that tells them it's not going very well. I used to finish all my knits, regardless of how awful they were. Not anymore! Life is short and there are so many patterns and yarns to try, so if my project is not looking/feeling right, I quit immediately🤓
Thank you again for sharing! Happy New Year!
Super tips!
thank you so much for all those tips !! much appreciated !
Out of desperation I put sheering elastic in some of my shop bought jumpers to alter the shape. It worked and lasted surprisingly well.
I can crochet ok, but knitting still defeats me after nearly five decades. I’m trying again but can only just go backwards and forwards in stockinet. And then I drop the stitches and can’t pick them up. It’s so confusing. You are doing so well.
thank you! And i hope you still enjoy knitting stockinette, it can be so fun to do simple things!
I love the Mist Sketch Sweater and I think it looks great on you. I am super sensitive to wool, I find the only wool I can wear is merino. It is expensive but worth it if you end up able to wear the sweaters. Mohair is the worst!
thank you!! And yes, definitely love the feel of merino, and less expensive than mohair anyways !
It is very interesting to look at flops cuz I GEt that
yeah it is interesting!
Maybe you should get a thin camisole made of silk or viscose under your knitwear. It also covers the lines of bra pretty well.
yes, good idea!
I wear bamboo under layers as it breathes all year long all seasons and is smooth on the skin.
thanks!
The pullover in Along avec Anna yarn matches your eye colour same it's on this list.
i will try and salvage this one!
You are not alone!! I am not a fan of all-over texture! (or all-over colorwork, usually, but that's another story...) I don't like the visual bulk it creates. Your sweaters are lovely. Find good homes for them if you are sure you'll never wear them. They are too pretty to live in storage.
I totally agree! Visual bulk is a good way to describe it! And yes, better homes for them is the way to go !
I always use a long sleeve t shirt or turtleneck or mock neck under my knits. If you find some cute ones, it can make your knit look even more stylish! I would recommend that you look for some type of cotton, viscose, polyester if you are sensitive to itching. I wouldn't recommend a thin merino or cashmere shirt, cause they can (and will) itch someone with sensitive skin, even if it says otherwise.
thank you!! That's super helpful