I love your end of month wraps. Wonderful visit and love all your knits. I have knit the Harvest and it is my everyday cozy wrap me up sweater. Happy knitting and see you next week.
Lesley I love the non-matching sleeves on your cardi. There is no need to apologize for not having finished projects, I’d listen to your podcast even if you very rarely had finished project. I hope time away from work helps you recharge.
Please never apologise for "no finished objects". Thanks for sharing your thoughts about planing and doing your projects. That are intresting points. Enjoyed it really. Best wishes for you and your family.
Thanks Aquilla - many of my yarns are in the same parts of the colour wheel, so I don't have to try too hard I am still catching up with podcasts - I think I've just seen your test hat - beautiful colours in Hazel's yarn xx
Don't worry about not always having a finished object to show us, we love seeing works in progress, etc. I do understand how exciting it is to show the thing we make😊 that red yarn will be pretty in anything!. I have decided to embark on the ranunculous that I have always wanted to make. I need to choose the yarn and get ready. Take care. April holds my 70th birthday!
Lesley, you are so faithful to your videos, both the monthly and the weekly ones. Thanks so much. So glad you're taking some time off to decompress and re-energize.
I don't watch for the finished objects ( although I do enjoy seeing them), I come because I love catching up with you and what you've been up to. I do like the reworking of items that need sorting out, it helps to find out how/ what others do to make their makes wearable. And well done for recognising when you need a break, a good lesson for us all, but especially those in such an emotionally charged profession. I hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable break x
Thanks Fiona Lovely to have you here - I also find it interesting to see what others wear or don't wear - it helps to choose projects, I find. Hope all is well with you xx
Just got out of a couple of days in the hospital - nothing drastic but needed tending to which ended well. Came home to find two of your videos waiting in my notifications. Huzzah! You are indeed a tonic. Very wise to take a break. Enjoy yourself.
Crafting without pressure is totally sensible to my way of thinking. Yes, it can have a practical application but that's a bonus, not my goal, or so I'm now thinking. Sometimes there is a great satisfaction in unpicking a project, odd though that sounds. It appeals to my sense of not wasting anything. Glad you recognize the signs of a need for a holiday. HUgs
No finished objects required for me to enjoy your podcast! I go months without finishing anything when I'm working on a big project, and I'm not fitting knitting into work demands and schedule. Not am I taking days each month to visit an ailing loved one. I found it very supportive to be a witness to your decision that the red sweater just wasn’t working, and the frogging of it. I've carried on much too long on unsuccessful projects just because of all the time and knitting I already put into it. You remind me to be brave and put the project out of my misery. I hope you enjoy your r & r and return to work with a brain emptied of too many details and too much exposure to emotions. harpingJanet
Thanks Janet. That is all very much appreciated. Hope you are keeping well and am glad I'm not the only one who ponders about frogging, hoping to save what I have already done. Thanks again ans take good care xx
I am sorry that I’ve missed several of your vlogs and knit night, as you say, Life happens and gets in the way. It was nice to see you and I hope time off does the trick and that your relative is back home, soon. x
Thanks Theresa - hope you and Sir are ok. Relative is a long time patient, I deel, but small improvements every visut Look forward to seeing you soon xx
Hi Stephanie. Thank you for being here and sorry that I have been so late in replying. I look forward to your entries into the MAL. Good luck and thank you xx
Hello Lesley, You are always a joy to watch!!! I noticed you mentioned the "Swirl" sweater/jacket. I know this is a vintage book, but I was wondering if you found it difficult to knit. Thank you again for you knowledge and humor!! Linda
Hi Linda. Sorry to be so long in replying. The swirl was fairly easy to make, but sometimes hard to keep track of. It's a good idea to count stitches regularly, to keep on track xx
Always great to see you, and see your projects and how life is going for you. You asked your viewers if we have had a time when crafting was minimal, well, I have an 8mth old, and safe to say, crafting, or any of my life stuff, is mostly on the shelf. Not that I'm complaining, just that I totally understand the feeling. Glad you're having a break too. You definitely deserve it. It's been a very busy year for you. Anyway, happy crafting!🧶
Hi Laura. I can imagine that there are a hundred other priorities at the moment. Hope you and the family are doing well. Our crafts are always there, when we want to return to them. Thanks so much and take care xx
Dear Lesley, while you were talking about your circular jacket and the shades of red, I was frogging a sweater, that did not turn out as expected.😊 Sometimes ripping back is the best decision. Looking forward to your make along. I just finished a cardigan for my little grandnephew, but children are growing fast and soon he will need a bigger one 😉 All the best wishes for you and your family!
Love the colors you have chosen for your Eureka Sweater. That will be lovely. I never thought about the problem of steeking and not being able to use the yarn later. Good thing to think about. Will look forward to the make along!!
Thanks Peggy. I think it might be a case of "that's my excuse for not steeking, and I'm sticking to it...", but it would definitely make a difference to "frogability". Thanks and take care xx
Never worry about not having a finished object, if everyone were to be honest they would also say there are many times there’s no finished objects. I have no finished objects for about 6 weeks the brain space has been filled with goop. Happy to have crafting to ease things just been doing a little of this and that. Love how you redo your sweaters, I let them marinate in the closet unused, I did recently take a look at my Love note, which looks beautiful but not on me so I donated it with information on care. The make along sounds perfect and thanks to you I am going to order myself a whirl machine for charity hats.
Hiya Sweet Les!! I was wondering what that noise I heard and that little puff of smoke coming out of your ears was........lol!!! I believe my "cogs" have frozen from lack of oil...... 😯😯 I have done my share of " frogging" over the past couple months.....I have been fighting exhaustion since my second bout with Covid, which was in November. (It couldn't be because I am OLD).......LOL!! You ABSOLUTELY have to take some downtime for your own health.....I totally understand that feeling of being "full to the top" of your head..... I hope you do something relaxing and mind resting!!! The little fur diva is as cute as ever!!!!! I can't help but talk to her and thank you for giving her so many cuddles!!! Mandy is indeed a proper companion..... Not to mention a good egg!!! How sweet of her to let us spend a bit of time with her!! I have a feeling you gals, left unattended, could get into many, many things...... Have fun!!!! Lol! Love seeing you each week, dear friend!! Take care and see you on Friday!!
Hi Sharon. Sorry that you have been feeling so exhausted - it must get very frustrating for you. Please have some hugs and licks from Madam as an attempt to heal with her powers of cuteness. Mandy and I are best not left without a responsible adult - it could lead to chaos. Please take very good care of yourself xx
Lol, 12-15 years ago I made a crochet circular garment. Looked great on the tall thin model. Not so much on my short stout self. I think the yarn selection wasn't quite right either. so i made it into hats and scarves for donations. Enjoyed the process, not the product. I just thought it was funny you had a similar experience. It wasn't just me! And I realized it's ok not to like what you've made, just undo it, which I never did before. This is also why I like watching you because you make changes and unpick, and modify, meanwhile I never strayed from a pattern before. You give me confidence that modifications are ok, even if you have to unpick and try again. Enjoyed your podcast as always. Great idea for the make along. Take care.
Thanks so much Karen. I'm glad it wasn't just me, too! Glad that you made good use of the yarn - a lovely way to reuse it. It not fun to have to unpick something, but it's less fun to stare at something which hasn't worked out, but I have carried on regardless, and I have done that enough times to be open to changing it. I hope you enjoy making a few modifications - even adding a simple lace pattern to a sleeve can lift a whole garment and look a lot more complicated than it is. Enjoy and thanks for being here xx
Only you could not buy any yarn, not be gifted any yarn and still end up with more yarn! 😆 Love the MAL idea. I have just started a couple of makes for other people that I could enter. I can well understand that every so often you need to take a break from conducting funeral ceremonies. Being surrounded by all that grief must be very draining. X
"My craft is the thing I want to do without pressure" - I completely agree! I make whatever project takes my fancy and try not to stress about WIPs, finishing things in a 'timely' matter. But it's sometimes hard to explain to friends/family/acquaintances(non-knitting, usually) that I have no interest in monetizing my hobby in any way. I do this solely because I enjoy it - and any other reason would diminish that enjoyment!
1. You never owe us a finished object, we come for you first, the yarn second. 😊 2. You had a finished object, the "modesty" triangle you knitted. 3. Loving your stripes cardigan.
Got such a giggle when you mentioned the space helmet Lesley. I have yet to participate in one of the MALs - once I did for a shawl, but then never got around to actually putting it on the ravelry page! This time I am will endeavour to start and complete something as this MAL has a lot of scope, so will get my thinking cap on, thank you for the opportunity 😊
I think I've only ever made one thing for myself. I'm not especially generous with my knitting - it's just I'm more motivated if it's for someone else in particular. I also feel guilty that I've never managed to get more than halfway through a charity project. Oh dear. I just chained on for a log cabin crochet blanket which is a gift. It was going to be a Saltire graphgan but all the patterns were for chunky rather than DK yarn and counting and converting made me lose the will to live. PS The Happy Crafty Homemaker channel just uploaded an interesting slip stitch method for joining tubes made on a whirly whirly which made me think of you. No sewing! Glad you're taking some time off x
Hi Ian. We are all motivated in different ways - and don't feel guilty - not everything goes how we expect xx I hope you enter the log cabin into the MAL - I look forward to seeing it. Thanks for the top about joining tubes - I shall check it out Thanks and take care xx
Always enjoy your monthly round up Lesley! Having finished objects, or the lack of them is never an issue, so never apologise! I think reusing our wool is a serious necessity in these trying times and makes much more sense than hating a garment at the end! I could never knit to a schedule- it’s supposed to be relaxing anyway. Take care and enjoy your much needed break and thank you xx
Thank you for a lovely episode. I so look forward to see how your Harvest turns out, as I recently finished one in a similar colour pallet (and stripes). I love mine, and only wish I would have had the knowledge and bravery to try to make it with a shawl colar (as you have said you are going to do). Glad to hear you are taking good care of yourself and taking time off when needed. Also very valuable to be you, and not try to produce products only to show off in a podcast. Thumbs up for being real! All my best to you lovely human.
You are so very kind - thank you Glad you enjoyed your Harvest - I am enjoying the pattern so far. Hope all is well with you. Thanks for being here and take care xx
LOL! I understand. No FO's are fine by me... You have a yarny friend for life. I recently finished a few children's items I donated for Syria. I went through my projects and frogged a few things which were not giving me joy. I tend to be monogamous so having too many things on the needles freaked me out. 🙀I found some wonderful yarn in christmas colors and are now making my christmas shawl and loving the monogamy again. 🎄
Hi Brenda. Glad you have found some crafty comfort in focusing on one project at a time. Frogging is a mixed thing, isn't it? Sad that the items didn't work out, but grateful that the raw materials are being reused. You are kind to make things for Syria - I can only imagine how grateful folks will be to receive them. Thanks and take care xx
Oh nice, you harvested some yarn from an old jumper and make Harvest from it...haha (yes, my humour is weird). The pattern is also in my favourites, so i´m curious what you think about it as you knit it.
Ha! I wish I had thought of that - excellent word play. I am enjoying it so far, but haven't finished the starting neckband yet, so not really in a position to judge. Thanks so much and keep well xx
My dear friend, do not apologize for not having a FO. My assumption has been that I have been watching a podcast by a human being, not a robot! Rest when there is need for resting. Worrying for a sick relative takes energy. I know as it happens that I have the same situation. So no apologies. We knit when we have the brain and heart for it. ❤
I’m working on the CQ jumper by Alicia Plummer while watching you and it occurred to me that it’s a pattern that would be perfect for you as it’s bands of colour, texture and slipped stitches. I thought you might like to have a look at it. I love your crochet boxy.
There is no need to "produce" a FO every podcast or month or whatever. I am happy to spend time with you and hear about your days. I've knit the Harvest nd it's a very easy and quick knit. I'm curious to see if you'll have any modifications to the pattern. Be well!
Hi. Thanks so much. So far, only mod is making a shaped/shawl collar - I may also add pockets. Glad to hear that the pattern was quick and easy - my favourites! Xx Take care xz
Hi Lesley, I love unpicking yatn, as it gives me the opportunity to enjoy the loveliness all over again. Oh a new MAL, I very rarely make things for me! I started a pair of socks for myself, but one of the granddaughters took a shine so off they went. I have enough yarn over to make another pair. Easter is coming and all the grandchildren get a little make with their chocolate and extra this year is something for the Kings Coronation as a keep sake. Also got one of the daughters getting married in August, so need twenty butterflies for the hen party. I've made a rod for my own back with grandchildren makes, as it was ok when we had three, four, five, but now we have ten it's a lot of work. But they are so worth it. Question. If a cardigan pattern is made up in panels, is it possible to just knit them in one until the arm holes? I really don't enjoy seaming and wondering if I can alter it. Enjoy your month off and find yourself inner peace. Take care xxJane 🐇
Hi Jane Sorry I am so slow in replying. I hope you got all your Easter makes done without too much pressure. Yes - make the cardigan in one piece before the sleeves - I often do that. You might have to reduce by a couple of stitches, if a selvedge has been included. Hope you've been having a lovely Easter xx
Thanks again for the pattern prize. I will cast it on real soon and the pattern is already in the project bag. You are really good at altering patterns which gives me courage to try in that area. This make along has my name all on it. I couldn't do your job. You are incredible. Have a great recharging break.
Thanks Shirley - you are too kind. Hope you enjoy the pattern and I look forward to seeing your MAL entries - I know how much you make for others. Take good care xx
Beautiful projects, the color yarns are so pretty. Sorry you had to unpick those sweaters, but at least you can reuse the yarns. Do you have a pile of wips that’s are sitting in time out? I went through my wips and made some decisions to either work on it or rip it out. I cannot imagine the emotional toll your job has on you. It cannot be easy, you deserve a break just to decompress from the emotional stress. The make a long sounds great, I have a few things in my cue to make for others. Have a great week. 🤎
Hi Mary. I have an unofficial time out for wips, in that I just don't work on them (and then forget them!) Thanks so much - I look forward to seeing your entries in the MAL xx
I have to admit I never swatch. I may have once years ago and thought it the worst waste of time and that it took away from my joy of crochet. 😮 I find I'd rather get right into the project to see if my yarn choice goes well with my stitch. There have been times when making a baby afghan for a gift, that I have started then frogged, over a few times until I find that perfect stitch for my yarn color and texture, even being worsted weight, US. I don't think a swatch would really have helped in those cases. My requirements for a worthy pattern is to be very easy to work up, yet look either complicated or just very lovely stitch wise and to be very economical in the amount of yarn required. The recipients of my gifts seem to be as pleased with the projects as I am, and that's what really matters. That along with the good therapy the hook work process has given me, as well as the feeling of accomplishment from the finished project. A real win win for all.
Hi Melanie The recipients of your gifts are very lucky to have you crocheting for them. And yes, the therapy that we get from our craft is a real boon. Thanks so much and hope you are well xx
Hi Christine. That is fantastic news 😍🎉👏🤗❤️ Thanks for letting me know. That has brought a big smile to my face. Wishing you continued good health and enjoy putting the experience behind you. Thanks so much and take care xx
My mum’s solution to excess décolletage was ‘a bit of tulle’. If I was planning to go out in a dress she considered ‘dodgy’, her comment would be,’You need a bit of tulle in that…’ which became a family joke.
I just wanted to let you know that I’m trying to catch up.🤦♀️ 2022 was not very nice to me at all and I got very much behind in some of channels that I loved. Now I won’t go into detail except to say I hope to be watching your channel more. I’m so very sorry I fell by the wayside.🥰
Hi Becky. Please don't apologise. I am sorry that you've had a difficult time and hope that things are now improving for you. Thanks for being here and take very good care of yourself xx
Hi Sandy. Do you mean for the MAL? I am keeping it as yarny for this year, so knitting/crochet/weaving/machine knitting and spinning. Thanks so much and take care xx
“Waiting for the space helmet to attach”…lol. Not only are you an awesome maker , you’re hilarious. 😂💕😂💕
Hi Red. That is very kind. Thank you. Glad to raise a smile xx
I love your end of month wraps. Wonderful visit and love all your knits. I have knit the Harvest and it is my everyday cozy wrap me up sweater. Happy knitting and see you next week.
Hi Jean.
Thanks so much. I am hearing so many good things about the Harvest. Thanks for the comment - it is spurring me on xx
Lesley I love the non-matching sleeves on your cardi. There is no need to apologize for not having finished projects, I’d listen to your podcast even if you very rarely had finished project. I hope time away from work helps you recharge.
Thanks Renee, that is much appreciated. Hope all is well with you xx
Loved the comment about looking like an astronaut waiting for his helmet. 🚀🛰
Thanks Jackie - it definitely had that vibe about it xx
Please never apologise for "no finished objects". Thanks for sharing your thoughts about planing and doing your projects. That are intresting points. Enjoyed it really. Best wishes for you and your family.
Thanks Juliane, you are very kind.
Hope all is well with you xx
I loved the Wayne's World time reference! I love how you make so many yarns work so beautifully together ❤️
Thanks Aquilla - many of my yarns are in the same parts of the colour wheel, so I don't have to try too hard
I am still catching up with podcasts - I think I've just seen your test hat - beautiful colours in Hazel's yarn xx
Don't worry about not always having a finished object to show us, we love seeing works in progress, etc. I do understand how exciting it is to show the thing we make😊 that red yarn will be pretty in anything!. I have decided to embark on the ranunculous that I have always wanted to make. I need to choose the yarn and get ready. Take care. April holds my 70th birthday!
Hi Linda. Wishing you the happiest of months for your birthday.
Enjoy your Ranunculous - it's a fun make xx
Hear your cogs whirring? 😂 creaking and squeaking more like… 😂😂😂 thank you for a lovely look into your crafty world xx
You are too kind - I hope the audio interference from my brain wasn't too distracting 🤔😆
I love all your sweaters but especially love the brown, green, blue boxy. Love those colors.
Thanks Jane. I am pleased with how that's turning out.
Thanks so much and take good care xx
Good to see you ! I enjoy watching you.
You are very smart to know when to take a break and that care of yourself! You do you!
Thanks Jane. We all need breaks - I am lucky enough to have some flexibility.
Hope you are well xx
Lesley, you are so faithful to your videos, both the monthly and the weekly ones. Thanks so much. So glad you're taking some time off to decompress and re-energize.
That's kind, Sandy. Thanks so much. I enjoy making the videos - even when it doesn't feel like I have much to say xx
Thanks and take care xx
Ohhhhh,do enjoy your down time ,we all need that no matter what job we are in.i always enjoy your podcasts take care.
Hi Dianne, you are so right - we all need a break sometimes.
I hope that life is treating you kindly xx
I don't watch for the finished objects ( although I do enjoy seeing them), I come because I love catching up with you and what you've been up to. I do like the reworking of items that need sorting out, it helps to find out how/ what others do to make their makes wearable.
And well done for recognising when you need a break, a good lesson for us all, but especially those in such an emotionally charged profession. I hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable break x
Thanks Fiona
Lovely to have you here - I also find it interesting to see what others wear or don't wear - it helps to choose projects, I find.
Hope all is well with you xx
Just got out of a couple of days in the hospital - nothing drastic but needed tending to which ended well. Came home to find two of your videos waiting in my notifications. Huzzah! You are indeed a tonic. Very wise to take a break. Enjoy yourself.
Thanks Frank - glad that you came home well - long may it continue xx
Always lovely to hear from you Leslie! You are very brave to rip that out, I don’t think I could do that.
I look forward to seeing you next month ☺️
Thanks Laura.
If I didn't rip it out, it would just sit languishing, and that would gnaw at me.
Hope all is well with you xx
Lovely as always catching up with you. Enjoy your break from work You need to take care of you. Sending hugs xxx
Hi Louise. Thanks so much. I hope you can get some rest and reflect time, too xx take care xx
Crafting without pressure is totally sensible to my way of thinking. Yes, it can have a practical application but that's a bonus, not my goal, or so I'm now thinking. Sometimes there is a great satisfaction in unpicking a project, odd though that sounds. It appeals to my sense of not wasting anything. Glad you recognize the signs of a need for a holiday. HUgs
Hugs back to you. There is something satisfying in reusing yarn - I would hate to see it go to waste!
thanks for your podcast Leslie! Enjoy your well earned time off!
Thanks Janice - that's very kind. Hope you are keeping well xx
I love that you tear things out if you’re not happy with them, 😊
Thanks Karen.
Time is precious...but so is yarn! 😉
Hope all is well with you xx
I really enjoy your chats I lost my mojo for a while but now have it back now.😅thanks to yo and your chats😂
Hi Barbara. I am glad you have your mojo back - it fades for all of us, at times, I think.
Take care and thank you xx
No finished objects required for me to enjoy your podcast! I go months without finishing anything when I'm working on a big project, and I'm not fitting knitting into work demands and schedule. Not am I taking days each month to visit an ailing loved one.
I found it very supportive to be a witness to your decision that the red sweater just wasn’t working, and the frogging of it. I've carried on much too long on unsuccessful projects just because of all the time and knitting I already put into it. You remind me to be brave and put the project out of my misery. I hope you enjoy your r & r and return to work with a brain emptied of too many details and too much exposure to emotions. harpingJanet
Thanks Janet. That is all very much appreciated. Hope you are keeping well and am glad I'm not the only one who ponders about frogging, hoping to save what I have already done.
Thanks again ans take good care xx
I am sorry that I’ve missed several of your vlogs and knit night, as you say, Life happens and gets in the way. It was nice to see you and I hope time off does the trick and that your relative is back home, soon. x
Thanks Theresa - hope you and Sir are ok.
Relative is a long time patient, I deel, but small improvements every visut
Look forward to seeing you soon xx
My first visit with you. I enjoyed it. Thank you. I look forward to entering in your MAL as that’s mostly what I do - charity knitting and crocheting.
Hi Stephanie. Thank you for being here and sorry that I have been so late in replying.
I look forward to your entries into the MAL. Good luck and thank you xx
I hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable break Les and return to your work refreshed xx
Thanks Mairead. Knowing me, I will overfill the time, but with fun things.
Hope you are well xx
I'm glad I'm not the only one who has months when the finished objects count is in the negative. Great to see you as always.
Thanks Laura.
Sometimes life just takes us in other directions, doesn't it? Hope all is well with you xx
Hello Lesley,
You are always a joy to watch!!! I noticed you mentioned the "Swirl" sweater/jacket. I know this is a vintage book, but I was wondering if you found it difficult to knit. Thank you again for you knowledge and humor!!
Linda
Hi Linda. Sorry to be so long in replying.
The swirl was fairly easy to make, but sometimes hard to keep track of. It's a good idea to count stitches regularly, to keep on track xx
Always great to see you, and see your projects and how life is going for you. You asked your viewers if we have had a time when crafting was minimal, well, I have an 8mth old, and safe to say, crafting, or any of my life stuff, is mostly on the shelf. Not that I'm complaining, just that I totally understand the feeling. Glad you're having a break too. You definitely deserve it. It's been a very busy year for you. Anyway, happy crafting!🧶
Hi Laura.
I can imagine that there are a hundred other priorities at the moment. Hope you and the family are doing well. Our crafts are always there, when we want to return to them.
Thanks so much and take care xx
Dear Lesley, while you were talking about your circular jacket and the shades of red, I was frogging a sweater, that did not turn out as expected.😊 Sometimes ripping back is the best decision.
Looking forward to your make along. I just finished a cardigan for my little grandnephew, but children are growing fast and soon he will need a bigger one 😉
All the best wishes for you and your family!
Thanks Peggy - glad I wasn't alone in the "frog pond".
I look forward to seeing your cardigan and other makes in the MAL xx
Love the colors you have chosen for your Eureka Sweater. That will be lovely. I never thought about the problem of steeking and not being able to use the yarn later. Good thing to think about. Will look forward to the make along!!
Thanks Peggy. I think it might be a case of "that's my excuse for not steeking, and I'm sticking to it...", but it would definitely make a difference to "frogability".
Thanks and take care xx
Never worry about not having a finished object, if everyone were to be honest they would also say there are many times there’s no finished objects. I have no finished objects for about 6 weeks the brain space has been filled with goop. Happy to have crafting to ease things just been doing a little of this and that. Love how you redo your sweaters, I let them marinate in the closet unused, I did recently take a look at my Love note, which looks beautiful but not on me so I donated it with information on care.
The make along sounds perfect and thanks to you I am going to order myself a whirl machine for charity hats.
Thamks Deb.
Glad you found a home for your Love Note - it sounds too lovely to languish unworn.
Have fun with your whirly machine. Xx
Hiya Sweet Les!!
I was wondering what that noise I heard and that little puff of smoke coming out of your ears was........lol!!! I believe my "cogs" have frozen from lack of oil...... 😯😯
I have done my share of " frogging" over the past couple months.....I have been fighting exhaustion since my second bout with Covid, which was in November. (It couldn't be because I am OLD).......LOL!!
You ABSOLUTELY have to take some downtime for your own health.....I totally understand that feeling of being "full to the top" of your head..... I hope you do something relaxing and mind resting!!!
The little fur diva is as cute as ever!!!!! I can't help but talk to her and thank you for giving her so many cuddles!!!
Mandy is indeed a proper companion..... Not to mention a good egg!!! How sweet of her to let us spend a bit of time with her!! I have a feeling you gals, left unattended, could get into many, many things...... Have fun!!!! Lol!
Love seeing you each week, dear friend!! Take care and see you on Friday!!
Hi Sharon. Sorry that you have been feeling so exhausted - it must get very frustrating for you.
Please have some hugs and licks from Madam as an attempt to heal with her powers of cuteness.
Mandy and I are best not left without a responsible adult - it could lead to chaos.
Please take very good care of yourself xx
Your next month is going to be chalk a block full of finished items! I feel so honoured to be mentioned. 😊
Hiya. Don't hold your breath for FOs, it feels like I'm at the beginning of a lot of things.
Thanks for the MAL idea - much appreciated xx
Lol, 12-15 years ago I made a crochet circular garment. Looked great on the tall thin model. Not so much on my short stout self. I think the yarn selection wasn't quite right either. so i made it into hats and scarves for donations. Enjoyed the process, not the product. I just thought it was funny you had a similar experience. It wasn't just me! And I realized it's ok not to like what you've made, just undo it, which I never did before. This is also why I like watching you because you make changes and unpick, and modify, meanwhile I never strayed from a pattern before. You give me confidence that modifications are ok, even if you have to unpick and try again.
Enjoyed your podcast as always. Great idea for the make along. Take care.
Thanks so much Karen. I'm glad it wasn't just me, too! Glad that you made good use of the yarn - a lovely way to reuse it.
It not fun to have to unpick something, but it's less fun to stare at something which hasn't worked out, but I have carried on regardless, and I have done that enough times to be open to changing it.
I hope you enjoy making a few modifications - even adding a simple lace pattern to a sleeve can lift a whole garment and look a lot more complicated than it is.
Enjoy and thanks for being here xx
Only you could not buy any yarn, not be gifted any yarn and still end up with more yarn! 😆 Love the MAL idea. I have just started a couple of makes for other people that I could enter. I can well understand that every so often you need to take a break from conducting funeral ceremonies. Being surrounded by all that grief must be very draining. X
Ha! Yes - if I don't get given yarn, I have to find my own!
Look forward to seeing your MAL entries
Hope you are well and Happy Easter x
"My craft is the thing I want to do without pressure" - I completely agree! I make whatever project takes my fancy and try not to stress about WIPs, finishing things in a 'timely' matter. But it's sometimes hard to explain to friends/family/acquaintances(non-knitting, usually) that I have no interest in monetizing my hobby in any way. I do this solely because I enjoy it - and any other reason would diminish that enjoyment!
Hi Margaret. You are so right. Once a hobby is a source of income, it's not a hobby anymore.
Enjoy your crafting and thanks for being here xx
Have a good rest and take time to smell roses ❤
Thanks Camilla. Hope all is well with you xx
1. You never owe us a finished object, we come for you first, the yarn second. 😊
2. You had a finished object, the "modesty" triangle you knitted.
3. Loving your stripes cardigan.
Thanks so much - that is appreciated. Hope all is well with you xx
Got such a giggle when you mentioned the space helmet Lesley. I have yet to participate in one of the MALs - once I did for a shawl, but then never got around to actually putting it on the ravelry page!
This time I am will endeavour to start and complete something as this MAL has a lot of scope, so will get my thinking cap on, thank you for the opportunity 😊
Hiya. Participation is not compulsory, but it wouldbe lovely to see what you make if you'd like to join in. Thanks so much and hope all is well xx
Great podcast thank you 🧶☕️☺️
Hi Joan
Thank you - that's very kind xx
Beautiful works in progress!
Thanks Brenda - much appreciated. Take good care xx
I think I've only ever made one thing for myself. I'm not especially generous with my knitting - it's just I'm more motivated if it's for someone else in particular. I also feel guilty that I've never managed to get more than halfway through a charity project. Oh dear.
I just chained on for a log cabin crochet blanket which is a gift. It was going to be a Saltire graphgan but all the patterns were for chunky rather than DK yarn and counting and converting made me lose the will to live.
PS The Happy Crafty Homemaker channel just uploaded an interesting slip stitch method for joining tubes made on a whirly whirly which made me think of you. No sewing!
Glad you're taking some time off x
Hi Ian.
We are all motivated in different ways - and don't feel guilty - not everything goes how we expect xx
I hope you enter the log cabin into the MAL - I look forward to seeing it.
Thanks for the top about joining tubes - I shall check it out
Thanks and take care xx
Hello, Lesley. I enjoy watching whatever you do. Enjoy your time off❤️
Thanks Carol - I certainly hope to.
Hope all is well with you xx
Always enjoy your monthly round up Lesley! Having finished objects, or the lack of them is never an issue, so never apologise! I think reusing our wool is a serious necessity in these trying times and makes much more sense than hating a garment at the end! I could never knit to a schedule- it’s supposed to be relaxing anyway. Take care and enjoy your much needed break and thank you xx
Hi Heather. You are so right - this is meant to be relaxing.
Hope you have a great weekend.
Xx
Thank you for a lovely episode. I so look forward to see how your Harvest turns out, as I recently finished one in a similar colour pallet (and stripes). I love mine, and only wish I would have had the knowledge and bravery to try to make it with a shawl colar (as you have said you are going to do). Glad to hear you are taking good care of yourself and taking time off when needed. Also very valuable to be you, and not try to produce products only to show off in a podcast. Thumbs up for being real! All my best to you lovely human.
You are so very kind - thank you
Glad you enjoyed your Harvest - I am enjoying the pattern so far.
Hope all is well with you.
Thanks for being here and take care xx
LOL! I understand. No FO's are fine by me... You have a yarny friend for life. I recently finished a few children's items I donated for Syria. I went through my projects and frogged a few things which were not giving me joy. I tend to be monogamous so having too many things on the needles freaked me out. 🙀I found some wonderful yarn in christmas colors and are now making my christmas shawl and loving the monogamy again. 🎄
Hi Brenda.
Glad you have found some crafty comfort in focusing on one project at a time.
Frogging is a mixed thing, isn't it? Sad that the items didn't work out, but grateful that the raw materials are being reused.
You are kind to make things for Syria - I can only imagine how grateful folks will be to receive them.
Thanks and take care xx
Oh nice, you harvested some yarn from an old jumper and make Harvest from it...haha (yes, my humour is weird). The pattern is also in my favourites, so i´m curious what you think about it as you knit it.
Ha! I wish I had thought of that - excellent word play.
I am enjoying it so far, but haven't finished the starting neckband yet, so not really in a position to judge.
Thanks so much and keep well xx
My dear friend, do not apologize for not having a FO. My assumption has been that I have been watching a podcast by a human being, not a robot! Rest when there is need for resting. Worrying for a sick relative takes energy. I know as it happens that I have the same situation. So no apologies. We knit when we have the brain and heart for it. ❤
Hi and thanks so much. I hope that all is going well for your poorly relative.
Take good care xx
Thanks for sharing
Hi Bonnie. Thanks for watching xx
I’m working on the CQ jumper by Alicia Plummer while watching you and it occurred to me that it’s a pattern that would be perfect for you as it’s bands of colour, texture and slipped stitches. I thought you might like to have a look at it. I love your crochet boxy.
Hi. Thanks for the suggestion - I will check it out .
Hope you're enjoying making the sweater
Thanks and take care xx
I am looking forward to see your progress on the Harvest cardigan I have the pattern but haven't started yet
Thanks Linda. Enjoying the Harvest so far, but not much done yet. It looks clearly written, so I look forward to getting back to it xx
There is no need to "produce" a FO every podcast or month or whatever. I am happy to spend time with you and hear about your days. I've knit the Harvest nd it's a very easy and quick knit. I'm curious to see if you'll have any modifications to the pattern. Be well!
Hi. Thanks so much. So far, only mod is making a shaped/shawl collar - I may also add pockets.
Glad to hear that the pattern was quick and easy - my favourites! Xx
Take care xz
Greetings from another unpicker and thanks for "swatchette". Always a joy listening to you!
Thanks so much.
Sometimes we have to make the decision, painful though it sometimes is
Happy knitting and frogging xx
❤❤❤
❤️😍👋
Hi Lesley, I love unpicking yatn, as it gives me the opportunity to enjoy the loveliness all over again.
Oh a new MAL, I very rarely make things for me! I started a pair of socks for myself, but one of the granddaughters took a shine so off they went. I have enough yarn over to make another pair.
Easter is coming and all the grandchildren get a little make with their chocolate and extra this year is something for the Kings Coronation as a keep sake. Also got one of the daughters getting married in August, so need twenty butterflies for the hen party.
I've made a rod for my own back with grandchildren makes, as it was ok when we had three, four, five, but now we have ten it's a lot of work. But they are so worth it.
Question. If a cardigan pattern is made up in panels, is it possible to just knit them in one until the arm holes? I really don't enjoy seaming and wondering if I can alter it.
Enjoy your month off and find yourself inner peace.
Take care xxJane 🐇
Hi Jane
Sorry I am so slow in replying.
I hope you got all your Easter makes done without too much pressure.
Yes - make the cardigan in one piece before the sleeves - I often do that. You might have to reduce by a couple of stitches, if a selvedge has been included.
Hope you've been having a lovely Easter xx
Hi! I'm knitting the Harvest cardigan right now as I watch your podcast! Can't wait to see yours! 😊
Hi Melanie.
Oh, that's grand. Hope you are enjoying the pattern. It looks fun xx
Thanks and take care xx
Thanks again for the pattern prize. I will cast it on real soon and the pattern is already in the project bag. You are really good at altering patterns which gives me courage to try in that area. This make along has my name all on it. I couldn't do your job. You are incredible. Have a great recharging break.
Thanks Shirley - you are too kind. Hope you enjoy the pattern and I look forward to seeing your MAL entries - I know how much you make for others.
Take good care xx
Can you please tell more about how you made the poncho that you are wearing? I would love to make one!❤
Thanks Christina - I will talk about it on the next podcast - it was a simple construction, but I will go through the steps
Thanks and take care xx
Beautiful projects, the color yarns are so pretty. Sorry you had to unpick those sweaters, but at least you can reuse the yarns. Do you have a pile of wips that’s are sitting in time out? I went through my wips and made some decisions to either work on it or rip it out. I cannot imagine the emotional toll your job has on you. It cannot be easy, you deserve a break just to decompress from the emotional stress. The make a long sounds great, I have a few things in my cue to make for others. Have a great week. 🤎
Hi Mary. I have an unofficial time out for wips, in that I just don't work on them (and then forget them!)
Thanks so much - I look forward to seeing your entries in the MAL xx
I have to admit I never swatch. I may have once years ago and thought it the worst waste of time and that it took away from my joy of crochet. 😮 I find I'd rather get right into the project to see if my yarn choice goes well with my stitch. There have been times when making a baby afghan for a gift, that I have started then frogged, over a few times until I find that perfect stitch for my yarn color and texture, even being worsted weight, US. I don't think a swatch would really have helped in those cases. My requirements for a worthy pattern is to be very easy to work up, yet look either complicated or just very lovely stitch wise and to be very economical in the amount of yarn required. The recipients of my gifts seem to be as pleased with the projects as I am, and that's what really matters. That along with the good therapy the hook work process has given me, as well as the feeling of accomplishment from the finished project. A real win win for all.
Hi Melanie
The recipients of your gifts are very lucky to have you crocheting for them. And yes, the therapy that we get from our craft is a real boon.
Thanks so much and hope you are well xx
Hello Lesley, just want to share my news. I had colorectal surgery and the surgeon told me I am now cancer free. 😊 Enjoy your break. ❤
Hi Christine.
That is fantastic news 😍🎉👏🤗❤️
Thanks for letting me know. That has brought a big smile to my face.
Wishing you continued good health and enjoy putting the experience behind you.
Thanks so much and take care xx
My mum’s solution to excess décolletage was ‘a bit of tulle’. If I was planning to go out in a dress she considered ‘dodgy’, her comment would be,’You need a bit of tulle in that…’ which became a family joke.
Hi Hazel. Oh that's marvellous - I can see how "a bit of tulle" became a family phrase. Hope all is well xx
I just wanted to let you know that I’m trying to catch up.🤦♀️ 2022 was not very nice to me at all and I got very much behind in some of channels that I loved. Now I won’t go into detail except to say I hope to be watching your channel more. I’m so very sorry I fell by the wayside.🥰
Hi Becky. Please don't apologise. I am sorry that you've had a difficult time and hope that things are now improving for you. Thanks for being here and take very good care of yourself xx
No apologies needed. Brain/physical breaks are important. I don't have much to share either 😂
Hi Marsha.
May we continue to have steady/calm lives. Hope you are keeping well xx
What about sewing. Making a quilt
Hi Sandy. Do you mean for the MAL? I am keeping it as yarny for this year, so knitting/crochet/weaving/machine knitting and spinning.
Thanks so much and take care xx