My absolute favorite stretchy bind of is: k2togtbl, slip that stitch back to the left needle, repeat until done. It looks like a “regular” bind off and has plenty of stretch to get past my heel!
My absolute favorite sock bind-off is the interlock bind-off which somehow manages to be extremely stretchy while not flaring out at all. It’s a sewn bind-off invented by the same Jeny that created Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind-off. I like to knit shorty socks with 20% negative ease but I have high arches. The interlock bind-off allows the ribbing to fully stretch (from about 6in to 10in for my typical shorty sock) while looking super neat and bouncing back to its original shape. I highly recommend trying it out!
For Q5, if you prefer to do a bind off without a tapestry needle, you might want to try Icelandic bind off which is the cousin of German Twisted Cast On. I like to use this a lot when both a cast on and cast off edge are visible so they match.
Try Lori's twisty bindoff for toe up socks!!! It's basically binding off in pattern but you rotate your needle every time you switch from knit to purl and vice versa to add stretch. It doesn't flare out and look sloppy like Jenny's stretchy bindoff 👌
For question 2, a very helpful tip from The crazy sock Lady is to use the lightbulb progress keepers an put one every 10 rows knitted. This way you don’t have to count from the beginning each time you want to check your progress!
In reference to your fleece to fiber planning....... besides Rachel, who you know about, there are three Podcasts I am remembering. "The Soulful Spinner", who I mention last week is doing doing a winter series breed study starting now. She's concentrating on British breeds. "Knitting the Stash" is on a mission to promote domestic farm breeds. This is another quality podcast. She is selling the yarn, but references farms who would have fleeces to sell. About a year or 2 ago "Fiber Love Diary" did a cohesive sampling of prepared fiber form several breeds that was very informative about the fiber qualities and characteristics.
Whenever I’m knitting toe-up socks, I try to use 1x1 rib and then use KnitFreedom’s invisible BO for 1x1 rib. It’s very stretchy and gorgeous! It’s like tubular, but doesn’t need any set up rounds, or moving stitches to another needle.
One thing I have learned over the years since being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder - you never have just one! 😭 They like to travel in pairs, or even groups 😫 Thanks for talking about it
I have had RA for 15 years and I often wonder if I have another disease was misdiagnosed as I have been on almost all RA drugs and eventually each one fails to do it's job.
I'm so glad you recommended a functional medicine doctor. After many others couldn't figure out what was causing my daily migraines, I sought out a functional medicine doctor. He was the only one who asked questions to get to the root of the issue instead of trying to bandaid the problem. I want to second your recommendation, because my doctor seriously saved me.
I don’t really make resolutions, but The Yarnist says to “Knit Fearlessly,” so I’ve decided to embrace that and create fearlessly this year. I am frequently a process person who feels bad that I didn’t finish more things, so I’ve decided that my fearlessness will be in embracing the process! Thank you for always sharing your health journey with us, Andrea. Support and a sense of community is so important in maintaining our mental health! We’re blessed to have someone like you to bring us together! I have multiple chronic illnesses, the top three being EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), Inflammatory Arthritis, and Hashimoto’s. Unfortunately, a gluten-free diet caused some pretty awful issues for me (EDS related), so I recommend talking to your doctor before changing. Every body is different, but it might be amazing for you! I’ve gone dairy free, and mostly plant based to feel better…it’s what works for me. 😁 Meditation, every day, is the best thing for me for managing stress.
Good morning, all! Resolutions have never worked for me, but several years ago I read about selecting a word for the year and letting that be your guiding thought in all things. The very first year, I chose the word "helpful". Each decision I made or communication (especially at work in frustrating situations) were framed with the thought of whether what I was about to say or do was going to move the conversation or situation forward in a positive way. While I wasn't a non-helpful person before, I tend to be very direct, so taking a moment to frame my words with the recipient in mind really made a noticeable difference in how my messages were received. Approaching every situation in a positive, forward-thinking way had the added benefit of reducing my stress levels as well. It is a sustainable practice, (unlike resolutions!) and has resulted in permanent changes for the better in my life. Other words I have used in the years since then have been: Kind, Finish (I suffer from start-itis!), Present (enjoying the moment rather than constantly thinking about the future - that was a post-pandemic word!). I'm still thinking on my word for 2023, but I think it will be focused on self-care. I have a stressful job, and this year, it took a toll on my health, and I need to do better.
I bind off my socks with Jenny's surprisingly stretchy bind off, except I only add the yarn over every other bind off stitch. It’s still really stretchy, but less bulky.
Counting rows….I love the yarn harlot’s trick of carrying a contrasting yarn and weaving it in and out at a 5 or 10 row increments. I use this for socks and sleeves. Have a great new year! Here’s to hoping all health issues settle down
For counting rows in socks, I use lightbulb stitchmarkers and place one every 10 rounds. Much easier than counting the same rows over and over and over again.
Thank you so much for sharing not only your fiber knowledge, but also your health knowledge. When I was diagnosed with Celiac 14 years ago I didn’t know anyone with it. That was a lonely place. Once I found a support group it helped tremendously just knowing that I wasn’t alone. Thank you for sharing. ❤
I agree with the others at having auto-immune disorders or diseases being in multiples. I've had arthritis for years. In 1992 I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis - where a lot of my pain was coming from and thinking it was arthritis. I was also diagnosed with fibromyalgia that year. 5 years later I was diagnosed with lumbar stenosis. I opted out of any surgeries. This year I was diagnosed with Baastrups disease. (basically degenerative disc disease). I have learned over the years to manage my pain by my environment and my activities. I don't expect too much of myself which has helped a lot. I quit my job as a hair dresser about 5 years ago because of back pain and shoulder issues. I had surgery on my shoulder and it helped, but I also lost movement in my joint. I will 100% say that stress is a major factor in pain and health. I take very little in pain meds. I do have a really hard time with my weight. I lost a good bit in 2021 because of covid but am gaining it back slowly. It's very frustrating because I know if I walked more it would help but walking aggravates my back. Anyway, I encourage everyone to get rid of your stress where you can. I don't keep stressful relationships anymore. It's just not worth my health to keep. I found this out when I got divorced 14 years ago. I couldn't believe the difference. Doesn't have to be a spouse, could be anyone or any thing. Blessings to everyone suffering from pain and stress. Andrea, I love your channel. It's so down to earth it's almost magical....
For a stretchy bind-off, Knitty Natty suggests starting off with a normal bind off but instead of passing the stitch over, knit 2 tog. Then do the next stitch in pattern, knit 2 tog. Or maybe purl two together to stay in pattern.
Your green Wool & Honey looks fabulous! Which colour of Loft did you use, and how much ease? It does look roomier than the photos of the one in Embers.
My feet went up a full size with distance running in my 30's (many years ago🙂). It's just walking now after back surgery. Introducing myself to you last week while walking on the water in Portland took all the courage I could muster and was a highlight (along with a whole lot of good eating!) of our visit. Thank you for the warm hello. I'd recognize that hand-spun hat anywhere....it was even more beautiful IRL.
My life goal for the year is to eat more whole foods, less sugar and flour. My knitting goal...I have so many sweater quantities of yarn, I'm going to cut down somewhat on gift-knitting and get knitting some sweaters for myself...one being your Stripes sweater 😁. I do want to knit a pair of socks monthly for next year's Christmas gifts 🎁 🧦
I intend to only make from my stash! Spent the last two days organizing my space and putting yarn with their intended patterns. Going to make the things that I only have yarn for 🤪. Until rhinebeck that is 😂
Wishing you great health for the new year! My favourite cast off for top up socks is Elizabeth Zimmerman’s sewn bind off. It’s quite stretchy and easy to do. And I think my favourite pattern off is the DRK sock! Interestingly enough I use my hand to measure my sock length from my heel to the beginning of my toes or vice versa, that seems to be a relationship that works for some people.
Because I get agitated with even just a slight bit of tightness on my sock bind off, I found I was never happy with it. I don't really care so much how it looks, but more how my feet fit over it. I follow the Simple Stretchy Bind Off from VeryPink Knits and that really eliminates that tad bit of tightness that I feel with other "stretchy" bind offs, and it's really simple.
Hi Andrea! After seeing the recipe in your newsletter for the GF pumpkin roll cake by the Loopy Whisk, I made it for a special girls’ luncheon and it was a huge hit! I was nervous about rolling it without it braking, but it was super easy and turned out perfectly. I don’t need to be GF, but it’s now my fave go to dessert. Thank you for sharing her great recipes!
It amazes me how many people have autoimmune disease. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s in early 2022 and am still figuring out what works for me. Thankfully I don’t have Celiac but I tried to go gluten free for a month. I felt great the first 2 weeks but then felt worse after that. I dropped way too much weight and was exhausted and irritable. My body did not respond well to it at all. Now I started the Thyroid Reset diet, which is essentially a low iodine diet and so far I feel pretty good. It’s amazing the controversy and misconceptions of iodine and the thyroid. Every doctor has their own opinion on the matter. I follow Dr. Alan Christianson (the author of The Thyroid Reset Diet) on TH-cam and I started taking his Thyroid Specific Formulations supplements. Hopefully I see an improvement on my next round of blood work. I wish everyone luck on their autoimmune journey. There’s so much good information out there but also a lot of bogus and outdated information as well. It’s hard to weed through it all and know what’s going to work for your body until you try it.
Being in my mid 30s, my arms got longer this year! 😂 I‘m so happy to still see your videos every week despite your medical leave. All the best for you and your family 🧡
To bind off toe up socks or anywhere I need a really stretchy edge, I do use JSSBO, but I go DOWN a needle size (or two or three). It makes the bind off look much neater but it still has great stretch!
Another wonderful episode, like sitting down with a friend for a chat while knitting. For the last year or so I have been cleaning out room by room (it all started when I had COVID last Christmas and was quarantined in 2 rooms in my house). I just completed my closet and finishing up the kitchen. For the new year I plan on using up yarn that I have in my stash or knitting patterns I already have purchased to help me clean up my craft room as well. Here's to a happy and healthy new year to you and your family.
For sock bind off - I'll usually do a sewn bind off. For test knitting - there is also a group on Raverly for test knitting from any designer that post in that group. It may be an option for the person looking into test knitting if Andrea's test knits fill up.
My goal this coming year is to learn how to weave on one of the looms I inherited from my grandmothers (yes, I received from both sides of the family!). I am retiring in March, and I look forward to the extra time to explore the fiber arts. Thank you for being a weekly visitor to my knitting time this past year.
Oh my gosh, my feet have grown a whole size in last 2yrs, so I relate! I do feel better when I eat less gluten. I have arthritis in my neck and can tell a difference in inflammation based on overall diet. I have a sweater pattern of yours ready for KAL in March!
Another great podcast - love them! For 2023 - I usually pick a word, and 2023's year is MOVEMENT. I need to start moving my body again. I had worked for several years to get myself in great shape for my 50s and then 2020 happened and I floundered without being able to go to the gym. Now I'm in my mid-50s and maintaining good health as I age so I can do all the things I want as I get older has become hugely important. So, to kickstart my journey back to optimal health and fitness, I made movement my word for 2023. But I like your idea of intention, since really the plan to move my body more is just that - my intention.
My 2023 intention is to steek!! Specifically, the LYS cardigan and, I hope, the shiftigan!! I think you said last time it might come out next week? Did I hear that right? Thank you for a fantastic year of inspirational patterns and for sharing yourself with us here. Many blessings to you in this coming new year!❤
My New Year's intention is to get really good at spinning wool. My new Ashford Joy 2 wheel is going to arrive soon. I'm an avid knitter and aim to knit with my own wool. 2nd intention is to sell my batts. I love processing fleece, blending mohair into my batts, or silk with dyed fleece. It's my huge passion ❣️
1 MILLION percent on the gluten and healthy eating, finding healthy habits. Your explanation is spot on. I don't have a functioning medicine doctor but I do have a great team and they all work together. So making sure you have people you can reach and help! Gluten was huge tho, probably cut my flares in half for Psoriatic Arthritis. Thanks Andrea for alway chatting with us! Happy New Year!!! - Kimberly
Oh I love you show so much! I really wanted to see your mending example, it's so artistic! Maybe next week? Thanks for all the good you put out in the world always making it a better one!
Hi Andrea love your podcast. I just made matching mother daughter Xmas socks and I knit your DRK Everyday socks. I bind off with the Italian sewn bind off. I find that own looks polished and doesn’t give me the ruffle on top like the stretchy bind off you mentioned.
Thank you Andrea for sharing about your health and your practices for your own care and well-being. For 2023, I'm going to do a bit more planning for my knitting and spinning. I like the idea of being intentional, so that will guide my crafting to be more process-oriented rather product-oriented. My intentions for skills include spinning for a sweater (Metamorphic!), learning different plying techniques, and steeking. All the best to you for a happy, healthy and peaceful new year!
I use a piece of yarn with beads or knots/loops as a row/round counter. I create 10 loops and pass the needle into the next loop as I knit the round. Very inexpensive row counter that I then mark with a progress keeper or light bulb marker every 10 rounds .
My favorite sock BO is EZ's sewn BO. It's quick and easy, I think it looks clean because it doesn't flare and ihas a good elasticity. My hubby has a higher instep and needs a very elastic BO in order to be able to put on his socks. This one works for him. It's fun that you bought a mini weaving loom. I bought one too a few months ago and haven't tried it yet because it's always more appealing to knit than to mend... lol! Happy 2023 to you and I hope your health gets better soon!
I have so many autoimmune diseases that I feel like I need a checklist so I can start marking them off and eventually I’ll have them all checked. It’s very depressing.
My intention for 2023 is to get out of my own way; to let myself knit and sew instead of doing things I think I “should be doing” (cooking, cleaning and so on). I also have autoimmune issues as a result of a rare cancer. When I was in the thick of it, a friend of mine said “be your own advocate!” I cannot stress how important this is. Happy New Year to all here as well as Andrea and family!
So true that no one diet works for everyone! My husband and I found it very helpful to get sequenced, in the end health symptoms come from gene-environment (e.g. food) interaction. I found that knitting helps so much with my stress levels! And taking the time to watch your optimistic and colorful podcast as well! A very happy and healthy new year to everyone! 🎉🍀
I hurt my hands terribly knitting the Winter Honey pattern, even though it was a challenge. Just make sure you rest your hands and knit on another project in between any repetitive pattern.
My family is gluten free too ill look up those cookbooks! In the last few years ive become gluten, cow dairy, oat, and shellfish free for budding allergy reasons- ive learned to live on potato, rice and rice noodles🍜 with meat and vegetables 🥗 If we buy food out our thai place is so allergy conscious it gives me a yummy night off- ❤❤❤
Good morning Andrea. Glad to hear the sock questions. I’ve been knitting socks obsessively for over a year trying to find the components that fit me well. I actually use 2-3 needle sizes depending on how long I make the leg of the sock (I have no ankles & large calves). I usually go up at least 2 needle sizes from the largest used for the leg to bind off my toe up socks. I normally do the same for the cast on of my top down socks also. May I say I live your DRK everyday sock pattern. I’m going to experiment with just plain stockinette and your pattern after the first of the year. Have a Happy New Year!
I am gf df and I use Aarti Sequeira's cookbook Aarti Paarti so much :) It's not a gf cookbook intentionally, but most of the recipes are or can be easily adapted. It's Indian food and it's amazing :) also super budget friendly
Happy New Year! I believe time lapse is 8x speed. If you record yourself mending the socks in normal speed, you can use iMovie to speed it up to whatever speed you want, up to 2x, which will be better for watching.
Happy New Year! I also prefer the word intention instead of resolution. My intention for 2023 is to react less and observe more and to delve into sweater knitting with a sweater vest - I have the pattern and the yarn ready to go! Wishing you all the best and I look forward to seeing you next in 2023
Thank you for continuing to share your time with us, I love your videos and look forward to them every week. I have three Sew Liberated patterns I want to make in 2023 and also plan to help out in my children's school. My new years day cast on will be The Throwback - I just checked my swatch and I actually got gauge, so all set to go! Best wishes for 2023 to everyone x
I just turned 41 and haven't had kids, and my feet have also grown a bit in the last couple years. I thought it was just that they got wider due to pandemic weight gain, but they're also definitely longer somehow. Socks are still within the margin of error but I have some shoes that definitely won't fit anymore.
I consider them possibilities for 2023. When I need inspiration for something I can go there. One thing is finally making a throwback cardigan with very local to me yarn in mostly naturals.
Making goals! - I have a black cardigan test knit starting in the new yarn and am super excited about that! - I also wanna actually learn to spin on my espinner - I wanna knit in more neons for accessories. - I wanna be better about knitting from my stash (but don't I have to say that!)
Aw lovely Andrea. I have an autoimmune disease and I’ve found a lot of the advice you shared here has worked well for me. Take good care, and Happy New Year ❤
Two doctor-authors who write on healing Hashimotos are Izabella Wentz, PharmD and Amy Myers, MD. Their books are really dense - lots of suggestions and protocols. Can be overwhelming. I found reading and learning really helpful, and trying little bits of what I felt was relevant to my specific situation was the best way for me to not get overwhelmed by all the approaches. Both of the above authors have taken their medical expertise and applied it to these issues. Wishing you all the best! Love this channel, thank you!
I appreciated your conversation about Hashimoto’s disease. I have had this for many years and tried various things but did not focus on removing gluten. Will give that a try! Thanks
Hi Andrea ! it's always a pleasure to watch your videos , thank you for that and thank you for sharing. I wish you a very happy new year! For my toe up socks(I love toe up socks !) I discovered the HiyaHiya grandma stretchy bind off, it's easy to make, very neat and without any flare compared to the Jenny SSBO. That said I find personnally that a jenny SSBO is really not bad if I don't try to make it loosely, the bind off makes the job on itself. Another trick I often use is to knit a round before the ribbing with some increases all around (if this doesn't disturb the design). Then I use smaller needles for the ribing, this way it's stretchier and I do'nt have to worry about the bind off. happy new year to every one !
Just found you! So fun! Love your knitting and health info. Can relate to the autoimmune issues (years of it pre-C and now post C hair loss, increased autoimmune issues etc.) The first thing that ever helped me was following Live Right For your Blood Type. That was 30+ years ago. Medicine has come a long way but the don't eats in that book have proved the most valuable ever since and my go to food type list to avoid and to enjoy. Hope to knit something of yours soon!
Happy New Year. This year I want to learn brioche and make a one block wonder quilt. I want to slow down and make projects that are more creative and not just fast and done.
I want to make you aware that there was a l-o-n-g ad in the middle of this episode, by google, I think. It was all I could do to stay with you. I’m afraid next time I just won’t, no matter how much I love you.
So funny as I was looking at this pattern yesterday and this morning you are wearing it ! Thanks for your episodes I look forward to it every Friday morning
I have multiple patterns of yours on my list for 2023. I am doing the Big Cozy Cardi KAL, and I have wool & honey in my queue (and have the yarn too). :) Happy New Year, glad to hear you are relaxing. Can't wait to see the new pattern next week!!
I'm curious if you've calculated that out... lol I feel like I had to have knitted at least a mile this year but I didn't keep track. Even pound or gram wise would be interesting to calculate. I do kind of have that info. Great goal though!!
@@katpraeuner9794 thank you! I cataloged all 500ish skeins into ravelry, exported it into a spreadsheet and totaled things up! It’s fun to see it in a different way for sure
Thanks for sharing! I am in the process of getting diagnosed and I have also cut out gluten and I’m doing a Whole Foods AIP diet that is really helping!
I have loved Karina's "The Gluten Free Goddess" recipes and her Raspberry Jam Bars are my favorite dessert to bring to any group get togethers. It's a great way to make sure everyone can enjoy.
yay my question!! i cant wait to check out those recipes, thank you! For socks I've been loving the tubular and twisty bind offs, going up a needle size for both. My new years "resolutions" for this year are really just to take better care of myself - less stress and running myself ragged, more calm, nourishment, movement, and fun. happy new year !!
Thank you Andrea for all your podcasts have really enjoyed them. My intentions are to make some sweaters try different patterns to challenge myself. Take care of yourself and have a Happy New Years 😊
I organized my yarn and realized how many ready to go projects that I already have. So my goal for 2023 is to work those projects and not purchase new yarn 🥴 I've told all my fiber friends to keep me accountable! I did do a little stocking up at the end of 2022 in preparation 🤣
Speaking of Baked to perfection - I LOVE her recipes where she tells you specifically which flours to use, but always have trouble with the “Gluten free flour blend” recipes. Do you have a go to blend you use for her recipes?
Thanks for the tips Andrea, quite helpful. Could I ask your thoughts on double-stranded knitting the heel of socks or a method of reinforcing while knitting? I had to repair a pair of very old (50+ years) knitted socks my grandmother made that wore out. I ended up knitting a patch and attaching to the heel and bottom of the foot. I surpised myself at being able to repair the socks but it was not fun. I'd rather not have to make repairs.
I usually just bind off normally and my recipients have not had any issues, so this is new to me (that it can be an issue ) Please add link for your group so I can look out for test knits, as I get way too many when googling your name🙏
My absolute favorite stretchy bind of is: k2togtbl, slip that stitch back to the left needle, repeat until done. It looks like a “regular” bind off and has plenty of stretch to get past my heel!
My absolute favorite sock bind-off is the interlock bind-off which somehow manages to be extremely stretchy while not flaring out at all. It’s a sewn bind-off invented by the same Jeny that created Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind-off. I like to knit shorty socks with 20% negative ease but I have high arches. The interlock bind-off allows the ribbing to fully stretch (from about 6in to 10in for my typical shorty sock) while looking super neat and bouncing back to its original shape. I highly recommend trying it out!
For Q5, if you prefer to do a bind off without a tapestry needle, you might want to try Icelandic bind off which is the cousin of German Twisted Cast On. I like to use this a lot when both a cast on and cast off edge are visible so they match.
Try Lori's twisty bindoff for toe up socks!!! It's basically binding off in pattern but you rotate your needle every time you switch from knit to purl and vice versa to add stretch. It doesn't flare out and look sloppy like Jenny's stretchy bindoff 👌
For question 2, a very helpful tip from The crazy sock Lady is to use the lightbulb progress keepers an put one every 10 rows knitted. This way you don’t have to count from the beginning each time you want to check your progress!
I do this too! I actually like it also because it gives me a little sense of accomplishment to put the next one in place each time. :-)
@AndreaMowry134 Hi Andrea, not sure what I need to do to claim a prize! But thank you!
In reference to your fleece to fiber planning....... besides Rachel, who you know about, there are three Podcasts I am remembering. "The Soulful Spinner", who I mention last week is doing doing a winter series breed study starting now. She's concentrating on British breeds. "Knitting the Stash" is on a mission to promote domestic farm breeds. This is another quality podcast. She is selling the yarn, but references farms who would have fleeces to sell. About a year or 2 ago "Fiber Love Diary" did a cohesive sampling of prepared fiber form several breeds that was very informative about the fiber qualities and characteristics.
Whenever I’m knitting toe-up socks, I try to use 1x1 rib and then use KnitFreedom’s invisible BO for 1x1 rib. It’s very stretchy and gorgeous! It’s like tubular, but doesn’t need any set up rounds, or moving stitches to another needle.
Love Knit Freedom!!!!
One thing I have learned over the years since being diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder - you never have just one! 😭 They like to travel in pairs, or even groups 😫 Thanks for talking about it
They do like company. I have 3.
I have, at last count, 6. I hear ya!
I have had RA for 15 years and I often wonder if I have another disease was misdiagnosed as I have been on almost all RA drugs and eventually each one fails to do it's job.
I'm so glad you recommended a functional medicine doctor. After many others couldn't figure out what was causing my daily migraines, I sought out a functional medicine doctor. He was the only one who asked questions to get to the root of the issue instead of trying to bandaid the problem. I want to second your recommendation, because my doctor seriously saved me.
My favorite bind off for socks I found on VeryPink Knits on her video titled “Simple Stretchy Bind Off”. It is very stretchy!!
I don’t really make resolutions, but The Yarnist says to “Knit Fearlessly,” so I’ve decided to embrace that and create fearlessly this year. I am frequently a process person who feels bad that I didn’t finish more things, so I’ve decided that my fearlessness will be in embracing the process!
Thank you for always sharing your health journey with us, Andrea. Support and a sense of community is so important in maintaining our mental health! We’re blessed to have someone like you to bring us together!
I have multiple chronic illnesses, the top three being EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), Inflammatory Arthritis, and Hashimoto’s. Unfortunately, a gluten-free diet caused some pretty awful issues for me (EDS related), so I recommend talking to your doctor before changing. Every body is different, but it might be amazing for you! I’ve gone dairy free, and mostly plant based to feel better…it’s what works for me. 😁 Meditation, every day, is the best thing for me for managing stress.
Good morning, all! Resolutions have never worked for me, but several years ago I read about selecting a word for the year and letting that be your guiding thought in all things. The very first year, I chose the word "helpful". Each decision I made or communication (especially at work in frustrating situations) were framed with the thought of whether what I was about to say or do was going to move the conversation or situation forward in a positive way. While I wasn't a non-helpful person before, I tend to be very direct, so taking a moment to frame my words with the recipient in mind really made a noticeable difference in how my messages were received. Approaching every situation in a positive, forward-thinking way had the added benefit of reducing my stress levels as well. It is a sustainable practice, (unlike resolutions!) and has resulted in permanent changes for the better in my life. Other words I have used in the years since then have been: Kind, Finish (I suffer from start-itis!), Present (enjoying the moment rather than constantly thinking about the future - that was a post-pandemic word!). I'm still thinking on my word for 2023, but I think it will be focused on self-care. I have a stressful job, and this year, it took a toll on my health, and I need to do better.
that is such a wonderful idea!!!!
I also picked a word for the year this year. So much easier than a resolution that may or may not be easy to keep.
I bind off my socks with Jenny's surprisingly stretchy bind off, except I only add the yarn over every other bind off stitch. It’s still really stretchy, but less bulky.
Counting rows….I love the yarn harlot’s trick of carrying a contrasting yarn and weaving it in and out at a 5 or 10 row increments. I use this for socks and sleeves. Have a great new year! Here’s to hoping all health issues settle down
For counting rows in socks, I use lightbulb stitchmarkers and place one every 10 rounds. Much easier than counting the same rows over and over and over again.
Thank you so much for sharing not only your fiber knowledge, but also your health knowledge. When I was diagnosed with Celiac 14 years ago I didn’t know anyone with it. That was a lonely place. Once I found a support group it helped tremendously just knowing that I wasn’t alone. Thank you for sharing. ❤
I agree with the others at having auto-immune disorders or diseases being in multiples. I've had arthritis for years. In 1992 I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis - where a lot of my pain was coming from and thinking it was arthritis. I was also diagnosed with fibromyalgia that year. 5 years later I was diagnosed with lumbar stenosis. I opted out of any surgeries. This year I was diagnosed with Baastrups disease. (basically degenerative disc disease). I have learned over the years to manage my pain by my environment and my activities. I don't expect too much of myself which has helped a lot. I quit my job as a hair dresser about 5 years ago because of back pain and shoulder issues. I had surgery on my shoulder and it helped, but I also lost movement in my joint. I will 100% say that stress is a major factor in pain and health. I take very little in pain meds. I do have a really hard time with my weight. I lost a good bit in 2021 because of covid but am gaining it back slowly. It's very frustrating because I know if I walked more it would help but walking aggravates my back. Anyway, I encourage everyone to get rid of your stress where you can. I don't keep stressful relationships anymore. It's just not worth my health to keep. I found this out when I got divorced 14 years ago. I couldn't believe the difference. Doesn't have to be a spouse, could be anyone or any thing. Blessings to everyone suffering from pain and stress. Andrea, I love your channel. It's so down to earth it's almost magical....
Goals… Brioche! For hair loss, look into Low Level Light Therapy. My SO works for the people that make the iGrow. Red Light is pretty impressive.
I like your philosophy of letting our tools do the work for us. Nice
For a stretchy bind-off, Knitty Natty suggests starting off with a normal bind off but instead of passing the stitch over, knit 2 tog. Then do the next stitch in pattern, knit 2 tog. Or maybe purl two together to stay in pattern.
Your green Wool & Honey looks fabulous! Which colour of Loft did you use, and how much ease? It does look roomier than the photos of the one in Embers.
A stretchy bind off I just learned is the Icelandic Bind Off. It’s easy and neat. I haven’t tried it for socks
My feet went up a full size with distance running in my 30's (many years ago🙂). It's just walking now after back surgery. Introducing myself to you last week while walking on the water in Portland took all the courage I could muster and was a highlight (along with a whole lot of good eating!) of our visit. Thank you for the warm hello. I'd recognize that hand-spun hat anywhere....it was even more beautiful IRL.
My life goal for the year is to eat more whole foods, less sugar and flour. My knitting goal...I have so many sweater quantities of yarn, I'm going to cut down somewhat on gift-knitting and get knitting some sweaters for myself...one being your Stripes sweater 😁. I do want to knit a pair of socks monthly for next year's Christmas gifts 🎁 🧦
I intend to only make from my stash! Spent the last two days organizing my space and putting yarn with their intended patterns. Going to make the things that I only have yarn for 🤪. Until rhinebeck that is 😂
Wishing you great health for the new year! My favourite cast off for top up socks is Elizabeth Zimmerman’s sewn bind off. It’s quite stretchy and easy to do. And I think my favourite pattern off is the DRK sock! Interestingly enough I use my hand to measure my sock length from my heel to the beginning of my toes or vice versa, that seems to be a relationship that works for some people.
Because I get agitated with even just a slight bit of tightness on my sock bind off, I found I was never happy with it. I don't really care so much how it looks, but more how my feet fit over it. I follow the Simple Stretchy Bind Off from VeryPink Knits and that really eliminates that tad bit of tightness that I feel with other "stretchy" bind offs, and it's really simple.
Hi Andrea! After seeing the recipe in your newsletter for the GF pumpkin roll cake by the Loopy Whisk, I made it for a special girls’ luncheon and it was a huge hit! I was nervous about rolling it without it braking, but it was super easy and turned out perfectly. I don’t need to be GF, but it’s now my fave go to dessert. Thank you for sharing her great recipes!
It amazes me how many people have autoimmune disease. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s in early 2022 and am still figuring out what works for me. Thankfully I don’t have Celiac but I tried to go gluten free for a month. I felt great the first 2 weeks but then felt worse after that. I dropped way too much weight and was exhausted and irritable. My body did not respond well to it at all. Now I started the Thyroid Reset diet, which is essentially a low iodine diet and so far I feel pretty good. It’s amazing the controversy and misconceptions of iodine and the thyroid. Every doctor has their own opinion on the matter. I follow Dr. Alan Christianson (the author of The Thyroid Reset Diet) on TH-cam and I started taking his Thyroid Specific Formulations supplements. Hopefully I see an improvement on my next round of blood work.
I wish everyone luck on their autoimmune journey. There’s so much good information out there but also a lot of bogus and outdated information as well. It’s hard to weed through it all and know what’s going to work for your body until you try it.
I bind of socks with a crochet hook that’s 1mm bigger than the sock needles. It looks loose when the sock is off but looks perfect when wearing them.
Being in my mid 30s, my arms got longer this year! 😂 I‘m so happy to still see your videos every week despite your medical leave. All the best for you and your family 🧡
I have 2 knitting intentions this year, 1. finish my sweaters especially the sleeves. 2. Mix my "historical" stash with my new stash in projects.
For a loose bind off, I frequently use a crochet hook. Often a hook the same size as the needle will give enough ease.
To bind off toe up socks or anywhere I need a really stretchy edge, I do use JSSBO, but I go DOWN a needle size (or two or three). It makes the bind off look much neater but it still has great stretch!
On the red counter wrap a ponytail elastic around the space between the counter and the clicker part and it can't click.
Thanks for the GF food links, my daughter is GF and dairy free.
My feet grew too, but mine is due to my arch flattening, especially my left foot
Another wonderful episode, like sitting down with a friend for a chat while knitting. For the last year or so I have been cleaning out room by room (it all started when I had COVID last Christmas and was quarantined in 2 rooms in my house). I just completed my closet and finishing up the kitchen. For the new year I plan on using up yarn that I have in my stash or knitting patterns I already have purchased to help me clean up my craft room as well. Here's to a happy and healthy new year to you and your family.
For sock bind off - I'll usually do a sewn bind off.
For test knitting - there is also a group on Raverly for test knitting from any designer that post in that group. It may be an option for the person looking into test knitting if Andrea's test knits fill up.
My goal this coming year is to learn how to weave on one of the looms I inherited from my grandmothers (yes, I received from both sides of the family!). I am retiring in March, and I look forward to the extra time to explore the fiber arts. Thank you for being a weekly visitor to my knitting time this past year.
Oh my gosh, my feet have grown a whole size in last 2yrs, so I relate! I do feel better when I eat less gluten. I have arthritis in my neck and can tell a difference in inflammation based on overall diet. I have a sweater pattern of yours ready for KAL in March!
Another great podcast - love them! For 2023 - I usually pick a word, and 2023's year is MOVEMENT. I need to start moving my body again. I had worked for several years to get myself in great shape for my 50s and then 2020 happened and I floundered without being able to go to the gym. Now I'm in my mid-50s and maintaining good health as I age so I can do all the things I want as I get older has become hugely important. So, to kickstart my journey back to optimal health and fitness, I made movement my word for 2023. But I like your idea of intention, since really the plan to move my body more is just that - my intention.
My 2023 intention is to steek!! Specifically, the LYS cardigan and, I hope, the shiftigan!! I think you said last time it might come out next week? Did I hear that right? Thank you for a fantastic year of inspirational patterns and for sharing yourself with us here. Many blessings to you in this coming new year!❤
My New Year's intention is to get really good at spinning wool. My new Ashford Joy 2 wheel is going to arrive soon. I'm an avid knitter and aim to knit with my own wool.
2nd intention is to sell my batts. I love processing fleece, blending mohair into my batts, or silk with dyed fleece. It's my huge passion ❣️
1 MILLION percent on the gluten and healthy eating, finding healthy habits. Your explanation is spot on. I don't have a functioning medicine doctor but I do have a great team and they all work together. So making sure you have people you can reach and help! Gluten was huge tho, probably cut my flares in half for Psoriatic Arthritis. Thanks Andrea for alway chatting with us! Happy New Year!!! - Kimberly
Oh I love you show so much! I really wanted to see your mending example, it's so artistic! Maybe next week? Thanks for all the good you put out in the world always making it a better one!
I use Elizabeth Zimmerman bind off on my toe up socks. Love your videos 🥰
Hi Andrea love your podcast. I just made matching mother daughter Xmas socks and I knit your DRK Everyday socks. I bind off with the Italian sewn bind off. I find that own looks polished and doesn’t give me the ruffle on top like the stretchy bind off you mentioned.
Thank you Andrea for sharing about your health and your practices for your own care and well-being. For 2023, I'm going to do a bit more planning for my knitting and spinning. I like the idea of being intentional, so that will guide my crafting to be more process-oriented rather product-oriented. My intentions for skills include spinning for a sweater (Metamorphic!), learning different plying techniques, and steeking. All the best to you for a happy, healthy and peaceful new year!
I use a piece of yarn with beads or knots/loops as a row/round counter. I create 10 loops and pass the needle into the next loop as I knit the round. Very inexpensive row counter that I then mark with a progress keeper or light bulb marker every 10 rounds
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Wishing you and yours much happiness and good health in the New Year! Looking forward to seeing you in 2023!
My favorite sock BO is EZ's sewn BO. It's quick and easy, I think it looks clean because it doesn't flare and ihas a good elasticity. My hubby has a higher instep and needs a very elastic BO in order to be able to put on his socks. This one works for him.
It's fun that you bought a mini weaving loom. I bought one too a few months ago and haven't tried it yet because it's always more appealing to knit than to mend... lol!
Happy 2023 to you and I hope your health gets better soon!
I’m so sorry to hear about your new diagnosis, Andrea, but I’m glad you have an answer! I hope your leave is helping you feel more balanced.
I have so many autoimmune diseases that I feel like I need a checklist so I can start marking them off and eventually I’ll have them all checked. It’s very depressing.
Check out Kelly Hogans My Zero Carb Life channel. She has an amazing story. Hope it helps, hang in there.
My intention for 2023 is to get out of my own way; to let myself knit and sew instead of doing things I think I “should be doing” (cooking, cleaning and so on). I also have autoimmune issues as a result of a rare cancer. When I was in the thick of it, a friend of mine said “be your own advocate!” I cannot stress how important this is. Happy New Year to all here as well as Andrea and family!
So true that no one diet works for everyone! My husband and I found it very helpful to get sequenced, in the end health symptoms come from gene-environment (e.g. food) interaction. I found that knitting helps so much with my stress levels! And taking the time to watch your optimistic and colorful podcast as well! A very happy and healthy new year to everyone! 🎉🍀
I just cast on Wool and Honey the other day and seeing you in it is making me sooooo excited! Definitely love your green version!
I hurt my hands terribly knitting the Winter Honey pattern, even though it was a challenge. Just make sure you rest your hands and knit on another project in between any repetitive pattern.
You are SO uplifting. Thank you for all of the tips and how honest your are about your health and well being..
My family is gluten free too ill look up those cookbooks!
In the last few years ive become gluten, cow dairy, oat, and shellfish free for budding allergy reasons- ive learned to live on potato, rice and rice noodles🍜 with meat and vegetables 🥗
If we buy food out our thai place is so allergy conscious it gives me a yummy night off-
❤❤❤
Good morning Andrea. Glad to hear the sock questions. I’ve been knitting socks obsessively for over a year trying to find the components that fit me well. I actually use 2-3 needle sizes depending on how long I make the leg of the sock (I have no ankles & large calves). I usually go up at least 2 needle sizes from the largest used for the leg to bind off my toe up socks. I normally do the same for the cast on of my top down socks also. May I say I live your DRK everyday sock pattern. I’m going to experiment with just plain stockinette and your pattern after the first of the year. Have a Happy New Year!
I am gf df and I use Aarti Sequeira's cookbook Aarti Paarti so much :) It's not a gf cookbook intentionally, but most of the recipes are or can be easily adapted. It's Indian food and it's amazing :) also super budget friendly
Happy New Year! I believe time lapse is 8x speed. If you record yourself mending the socks in normal speed, you can use iMovie to speed it up to whatever speed you want, up to 2x, which will be better for watching.
I always do Kitchener on One Needle for my sock bind off. I don't have the too tight issue on one needle. And I love the look of it!
Happy New Year! I also prefer the word intention instead of resolution. My intention for 2023 is to react less and observe more and to delve into sweater knitting with a sweater vest - I have the pattern and the yarn ready to go! Wishing you all the best and I look forward to seeing you next in 2023
Love your honeycomb sweater!!
Thank you for continuing to share your time with us, I love your videos and look forward to them every week. I have three Sew Liberated patterns I want to make in 2023 and also plan to help out in my children's school. My new years day cast on will be The Throwback - I just checked my swatch and I actually got gauge, so all set to go! Best wishes for 2023 to everyone x
I just turned 41 and haven't had kids, and my feet have also grown a bit in the last couple years. I thought it was just that they got wider due to pandemic weight gain, but they're also definitely longer somehow. Socks are still within the margin of error but I have some shoes that definitely won't fit anymore.
I consider them possibilities for 2023. When I need inspiration for something I can go there. One thing is finally making a throwback cardigan with very local to me yarn in mostly naturals.
Making goals!
- I have a black cardigan test knit starting in the new yarn and am super excited about that!
- I also wanna actually learn to spin on my espinner
- I wanna knit in more neons for accessories.
- I wanna be better about knitting from my stash (but don't I have to say that!)
Aw lovely Andrea. I have an autoimmune disease and I’ve found a lot of the advice you shared here has worked well for me. Take good care, and Happy New Year ❤
Wishing you a happy, healthy & wealthy new year!!
My knitting goal is to use up my stashed yarn and be intentional with my future yarn purchases.
Two doctor-authors who write on healing Hashimotos are Izabella Wentz, PharmD and Amy Myers, MD.
Their books are really dense - lots of suggestions and protocols. Can be overwhelming. I found reading and learning really helpful, and trying little bits of what I felt was relevant to my specific situation was the best way for me to not get overwhelmed by all the approaches.
Both of the above authors have taken their medical expertise and applied it to these issues.
Wishing you all the best!
Love this channel, thank you!
I appreciated your conversation about Hashimoto’s disease. I have had this for many years and tried various things but did not focus on removing gluten. Will give that a try! Thanks
Hi Andrea ! it's always a pleasure to watch your videos , thank you for that and thank you for sharing. I wish you a very happy new year!
For my toe up socks(I love toe up socks !) I discovered the HiyaHiya grandma stretchy bind off, it's easy to make, very neat and without any flare compared to the Jenny SSBO. That said I find personnally that a jenny SSBO is really not bad if I don't try to make it loosely, the bind off makes the job on itself. Another trick I often use is to knit a round before the ribbing with some increases all around (if this doesn't disturb the design). Then I use smaller needles for the ribing, this way it's stretchier and I do'nt have to worry about the bind off.
happy new year to every one !
Just found you! So fun! Love your knitting and health info. Can relate to the autoimmune issues (years of it pre-C and now post C hair loss, increased autoimmune issues etc.) The first thing that ever helped me was following Live Right For your Blood Type. That was 30+ years ago. Medicine has come a long way but the don't eats in that book have proved the most valuable ever since and my go to food type list to avoid and to enjoy. Hope to knit something of yours soon!
Happy New Year. This year I want to learn brioche and make a one block wonder quilt. I want to slow down and make projects that are more creative and not just fast and done.
My only resolution is to do a big de-stashing, I have way to much stuff. Happy New Year to you and your family.
I want to make you aware that there was a l-o-n-g ad in the middle of this episode, by google, I think. It was all I could do to stay with you. I’m afraid next time I just won’t, no matter how much I love you.
So funny as I was looking at this pattern yesterday and this morning you are wearing it ! Thanks for your episodes I look forward to it every Friday morning
I have multiple patterns of yours on my list for 2023. I am doing the Big Cozy Cardi KAL, and I have wool & honey in my queue (and have the yarn too). :) Happy New Year, glad to hear you are relaxing. Can't wait to see the new pattern next week!!
Wishing you and your family a Blessed New Year, Andrea. I just love your videos. ❤️
One of my intentions for the new year is to knit 5 miles of yarn!
I'm curious if you've calculated that out... lol I feel like I had to have knitted at least a mile this year but I didn't keep track. Even pound or gram wise would be interesting to calculate. I do kind of have that info. Great goal though!!
@@katpraeuner9794 I have actually 😂😂 currently I have 81 miles in my stash, found my taking the yardage and converting to miles
@@smut.and.stockinette I think it would take me awhile to do the numbers. I have a LOT of yarn....but congrats on figuring yours out!
@@katpraeuner9794 thank you! I cataloged all 500ish skeins into ravelry, exported it into a spreadsheet and totaled things up! It’s fun to see it in a different way for sure
Thanks for sharing! I am in the process of getting diagnosed and I have also cut out gluten and I’m doing a Whole Foods AIP diet that is really helping!
I got one of those looms for Christmas. I would love to watch a video of you using it ❤
I love the Wool and Honey and can’t wait to start mine!
Happy new year...keep the creative energy flowing❤
Happy New Year, Andrea. Another great episode. Take care.
I have loved Karina's "The Gluten Free Goddess" recipes and her Raspberry Jam Bars are my favorite dessert to bring to any group get togethers. It's a great way to make sure everyone can enjoy.
yay my question!! i cant wait to check out those recipes, thank you! For socks I've been loving the tubular and twisty bind offs, going up a needle size for both. My new years "resolutions" for this year are really just to take better care of myself - less stress and running myself ragged, more calm, nourishment, movement, and fun. happy new year !!
Happy New Year 2023🥂🍾
Thank you Andrea for all your podcasts have really enjoyed them. My intentions are to make some sweaters try different patterns to challenge myself. Take care of yourself and have a Happy New Years 😊
Lol! I just turned 40 this year and I think my foot size has also changed 😂 I was so annoyed. Now I need new shoes and sneakers?! Grrr.
For the new year, I'd like to knit mainly from my stash, let's see. How long I can keep that resolution. 😉 Happy New Year to all !
I organized my yarn and realized how many ready to go projects that I already have. So my goal for 2023 is to work those projects and not purchase new yarn 🥴 I've told all my fiber friends to keep me accountable! I did do a little stocking up at the end of 2022 in preparation 🤣
Speaking of Baked to perfection - I LOVE her recipes where she tells you specifically which flours to use, but always have trouble with the “Gluten free flour blend” recipes. Do you have a go to blend you use for her recipes?
For the question about menopause, I found Dr Bright on the Steak and Butter Gals channel. I’m going to try it for my symptoms. 🤞🏼
Hope you are feeling better. I use the Simple Stretchy Bind Off. Very easy and fast. Love seeing you every Friday. Happy Healthy New Year!
I did reply on telegram, just not sure I did it correctly! Thanks so much Andrea.
Thanks for the tips Andrea, quite helpful. Could I ask your thoughts on double-stranded knitting the heel of socks or a method of reinforcing while knitting? I had to repair a pair of very old (50+ years) knitted socks my grandmother made that wore out. I ended up knitting a patch and attaching to the heel and bottom of the foot. I surpised myself at being able to repair the socks but it was not fun. I'd rather not have to make repairs.
Best wishes for the new year to you, Andrea!!
I usually just bind off normally and my recipients have not had any issues, so this is new to me (that it can be an issue ) Please add link for your group so I can look out for test knits, as I get way too many when googling your name🙏
I want a loom for fixing holes, I fixed 6 or 7 pairs this year as a present for my sister