TwinSet Designs
In which show notes will come later!
Direct download: Episode_111.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 10:10pm EDT

In which Jan continues on her journey towards life clarity and shares news of a baby shower, a birthday, a sleepover, swatches, and aligning her actions with what is actually important to her.

Direct download: Episode_110.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 7:56pm EDT

In which The Fulton Theater copes with Covid, Milo copes with veterinary care, Jan moves closer to clarity with regard to the roles she plays, and landsharks and bathsharks abound.

Direct download: Episode_109_--_Of_Land_Sharks_and_Bath_Sharks.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 6:46pm EDT

In which Jan explains that, although this is the 108th podcast episode recorded, it will be referred to as episode 107 since 107 seems to have been missed.  It's fitting because it's also the episode in which we hear about Bailey, the cat who went missing in episode 106, and some of what else you've been missing from her in the last 22 months!

Links to mentioned patterns are in the episode thread in the TwinSet Designs Ravelry forum.

Direct download: Episode_107_--_The_One_That_Went_Missing.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 10:02am EDT

In which Jan comes back to the microphone.  Sure, we've heard that before!!

Direct download: Episode_108.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:32pm EDT

In which we (yes, we...[twinsetellen](/people/twinsetellen) joins me for much of the episode!) discuss, personal agency, making protective face masks, the SSK Swap to help fiber community vendors losing revenue due to festival cancellations, what's happening in the patterns of Ellen's life, a generous offer from Infinite Twist (you put $10 into the fiber economy and get free stuff from Cate in return), a meditation of the impact of social distancing and Covid-19, and possibilities for future gatherings.

Direct download: Episode_106.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:22pm EDT

In which I give you a very wave top view of the things that have happened in the last year as well as the things I've knit and the things I'm knitting, introduce a new design segment called Design Modifications (asking you to contribute your ideas and information to share with other listeners to modify the pattern of the podcast and help me produce episodes more frequently), and provide results from last year's UNKAL, and a heads up on TwinSet Summer Retreat 2020 and our plans to make it to Rhinebeck this year.

Direct download: Episode_105_--_Lets_Give_This_One_More_Try.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:11pm EDT

In which Jan shares her travels away from the farm and visitors to the farm, and in which Jan and Ellen relive the fun they had at the last Madrona.

 

Direct download: Episode_104_--_So_Many_Visitors...And_Madrona.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 6:18pm EDT

In which Jan shares about signs of coming lambing, hermaphroditic sheep, a complete doggy update, her grandson's name, some design principles for color selection in stranded knitting, a 5-minute interview by Ellen of Eric Allness of Reywa Fibers, some details on the UNKAL, and a lengthy Fashion Forecast.

Direct download: Episode_103_--_Back_So_Soon.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 7:13pm EDT

In which Jan provides a wrap-up of happenings from the last year...very incomplete, but sufficient to bring us up to date...and in which she makes a call to Ellen to hear about her knitting shenanigans. Note that the call audio is different, and not to my standard. We're playing with new technology and if we can't get it right in the next episode or two, we'll go back to the old way.

Direct download: Episode_102_--_Annual_Podcast_Episode.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:46pm EDT

In which I catch you up on five months of patterns of my life, talk about an i-cord edging experiment, get started on Stash Fit, and open up the registration for TwinSet Summer Retreat 2018!!

Find the link for the retreat here: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1OTh5-0nJdmgFQ_vpxFicXwuJcMpWbXoX

Visit Infinite Twist at https://www.infinitetwist.com/

Find Modeknit yarns at: http://www.modeknityarn.com/

Knitspot (Anne Hanson and Bare Naked Wool) is here: https://www.barenakedwools.com/

Direct download: Episode_101_--_Happy_Memorial_Day.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:47pm EDT

In which I give you a quick reboot and suggest you visit http://www.infinitetwist.com to purchase Stash Fit! with the code twinset for a $3.00 discount!

Direct download: Reboot_Episode.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:15pm EDT

In which we review listener memories of the last 100 episodes, share the fun we had spending Christmas together, recollect that it was before Thanksgiving when we recorded the last episode, and forecast a cold winter in Minnesota as well as predicting the top 10 phrases you won't hear Ellen say in 2018...at least not on the podcast.

Direct download: Episode_100_--_Finishing.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:43pm EDT

In which it took me three weeks to edit, but in the meantime I did finish the paper to which I refer in the opening minutes.  Also, we do talk about knitting, and about our lives, and about things that we object to and things that we support...pretty much as usual.  Enjoy!

Direct download: Episode_99_--_Busy_Busy_Busy.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:37pm EDT

In which it took almost as long to edit as it did to get around to recording and in which we catch each other up on the patterns of our lives, all the knitting that's been going on, new contests and old, and whine on about how we both missed Rhinebeck.

Direct download: Episode_98--_Whinebeck.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:30pm EDT

In which we are back from hiatus and we chat about what's been going on -- Jan hosted the TwinSet Summer Retreat 2017 and made a trip to China, and Ellen played around at Cedar Point with her clan and then travelled to Oregon for the eclipse where Jan's Grand Nephew gave her a total eclipse of the heart.

Direct download: Episode_97_--_But_I_Digress.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:36am EDT

In which we accomplish a quick catch up, hear Ellen's Kefir, think about the #metricrevolution, acknowledge our birthday, get a little creepy, and announce the winner of the Summer Shawl contest!

Direct download: Episode_96_-_Twosday.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:05pm EDT

In which we catch up on life's joys and sorrows, and get cheered up by Dr. Yarn and our grandsons.  And in which we talk about plowing back and forth, the perfect yarn for when you're Friesian, how sweet Jan is, and how incapable we both are at correct counts during cast ons.

Direct download: Episode_95_--_So_Sweet.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 10:01pm EDT

In which we catch up after several months.  Jan became a grandma, Ellen went to Scotland, and we both had other adventures.  Thanks for your patience while we were gone and while Jan was trying to get the episode edited...just under the wire to have an episode out in June!

Direct download: Episode_94_-_Baby_Pants_Baby_Pants.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 11:11pm EDT

In which Jan give some details about the coming TwinSet Summer Retreat -- a few spots remain at time of publication!

Direct download: Special_Episode_--_A_Lovely_Retreat.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:46pm EDT

Okay, I'm getting this sucker published -- maybe Ellen will take some time to tell you what's in it, but I just want to be done with it...almost two weeks after we recorded!!!!

Direct download: Episode_93--_Finally_Edited.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:23pm EDT

In which we discuss the upcoming March for Science (which is in April, not March, but I digress), synthetic, man-made, natural, organic, inorganic and other fiber related terms, advice for washing your fleece, and highlight contests and new lambs!

Direct download: Episode_92_--_Over_the_Moon.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:10am EDT

In which Ellen spends almost 15 minutes talking about how her knitting bit her.  It really is impressive.  Just saying.


Whew!  Many tasks kept me from editing this very quickly, but here it is...
 
In which we discuss Groundhog Day (are you surprised?), Ellen's commitment to acquire more skeins than she knits...err, rather knit more skeins than she acquires, Jan's experience at the Women's March on DC, Ellen's experiences at Ding Dong Darling National Wildlife Refuge (they involve birds -- and key lime pie), an epic knitting bite, and craftivism.  And we have a few words from Dr. Yarn!!
 
Listen here:  Episode 90 -- Ground Hog Day
Direct download: Episode_90_--_Groundhog_Day.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:30am EDT

In which we chat about our holidays -- and Jan goes on and on about her holiday trip to Japan -- and in which we highlight a few other entrepreneurs in which you might be interested, hear from the founder of June cashmere, put out a few knitting and life objectives for the new year, and reconnect after our winter hiatus.  (Note, the outtakes refer to a bit of food poisoning Jan and family experienced in Japan -- not caused by the Kobe beef, but coincidental to that meal...we do not want to cause anyone to miss out on trying Kobe beef because of these comments!)

Direct download: Episode_89_--_TwinSetJan_Does_Japan.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 6:01pm EDT

In which we get ready for the holidays...Jan finishes up her current academic term, Ellen discovers walk-in closets, we both get ready for some fun with family over the holidays, and we include a reprise of the knitter's version of "Santa Baby!"

Direct download: Episode_88_--_Holiday_Hiatus.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 1:46pm EDT

In which we discuss our four Thanksgivings, knitting going to the dogs, a new give away from Infinite Twist, and lots of weiners!!

Direct download: Episode_87_--_Weinerific.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:59pm EDT

In which we take a deep breath and move on from the election, talk about how adorable our husbands are, brag a bit on ourselves, and hear about Ellen's fun at Vogue Knitting Live - Minneapolis.

Direct download: Episode_86_--_Moving_Forward.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 7:14pm EDT

In which Jan shares great news, and we both talk about Rhinebeck, Drop Dead Easy Knits, training chickadees and trading rams.

Direct download: Episode_85_--_Did_I_happen_to_mention.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 8:16pm EDT

In which we continue to be challenged by technology, but are very excited to be going to Rhinebeck!  No outtakes this time -- we were lucky to get the body of the episode!

Direct download: Episode_84_--_Computer_Gods--Still_Chuckling.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:41pm EDT

In which we get you all caught up -- whether you want to be or not.

Direct download: Episode_83_--_The_Computer_Gods_Are_Laughing.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:34pm EDT

At last...after gaining access to a different computer (the old one is likely a total loss -- thank goodness for Carbonite!) and in which we discuss visits to Minnesota, new chickens, hoping for a break in the heat, the Marie Kon-Don't Method, and the difference between Scotch tension and double drive spinning.

Direct download: Episode_82_--_Technical_Difficulties.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:25pm EDT

In which we acknowledge some farm sadness, but then press on to discuss DIY light boxes and cigar box electric guitars, crazy catch up after summer camp, winning prizes in yarn crawls, how much respect you gain for designers by designing, seeing family on business trips, playing in the pool at the Downcellar Studio's Splashpad Party, technology inspired and enabled knitting, and television for the velocity impaired.

Listen here: Episode 81 -- Absolutely Slowly

Direct download: Episode_81_--_Exactly_Absolutely.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:42pm EDT

In which we recall the fun we had at TwinSet Summer Camp!

Direct download: Episode_80_--_Camp_Exclusive.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:13pm EDT

In which we hear a big confession, enjoy reports of retirement festivities, celebrate pride, think of podcaster with whom to dine, hear a negative space essay from Ellen, learn about Devon sheep and their cousins, the brick sheep...aka Devon Closewool.

Direct download: Episode_79_--_Almost_Time_for_Camp.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 11:02am EDT

In which we talk about great fun had at Zombie Knitpocalypse and The National Needlearts Association Summer Convention, farm stuff, not much knitting, super powers and all the winners from phase one of the UNKAL!!

Direct download: Episode_78_--_Zombies_and_TNNA.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 11:36pm EDT

In which we discuss some sad farm news and some better farm news, business travels and ball games, Memorial Day remembrances, and the fact that Ellen is running out of work days rather rapidly!!

Direct download: Episode_77_--_12_More_Days.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:32pm EDT

In which we discuss trips all over the place, many projects, winning endeavors, buffalo garbanzoes, cowichan sweaters, Nancy Totten Designs and prize winning farm animals plus lots of other stuff.

Direct download: Episode_76_--_So_Much_Stuff.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:29pm EDT

In which we discuss trips all over the place, many projects, winning endeavors, buffalo garbanzoes, cowichan sweaters, Nancy Totten Designs and prize winning farm animals plus lots of other stuff.

Direct download: Episode_76_--_So_Much_Stuff.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:28pm EDT

In which we discuss aberrant spring weather, a trip to see Andrew, the wiggle dance, bottle supplemented lambs, naked alpaca and fowl play.

Direct download: Episode_75_--_Waiting_on_Spring.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 6:39pm EDT

In which we discuss White House M&Ms, Lindt Chocolate Bunnies, Big balls of string, more new lambs, pacemaker museums, and running in slippers.

Direct download: Episode_74_--_Twofer_Two.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:20pm EDT

In which we discuss rams and lambs and many hats off to Minnesota, a monumental knitting bite, a book review of Free Spirit Knits and several wiener opportunities.

Direct download: Episode_73_--_Twofer_One.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 12:27pm EDT

For which I took almost two weeks to edit and in which we discuss retreats, Stitches West, meeting long lost family and new and old friends, sunning in company of alligators and sharks, the amazining Anna Zilboorg, new contests, and TwinSet Summer Camp -- now with more Caithness Craft!  SO many things!!!

Direct download: Episode_72_--_So_Many_Things.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:33pm EDT

In which we discuss dealing with Winter Storm Jonas, travel to see Jan's grand newphew, the Knit a Journey Midwinter Retreat, Legally Blonde - the Musical!, CVM, and being bold.

Direct download: Episode_71_--_Snow_Bound.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 4:43pm EDT

In which we discuss very little in the patterns of our lives, but in which we do discuss getting our spin back on, full time working for part time people, bonus sheds, horny sheep, and, yes, exploding kittens.

Direct download: Episode_70_--_No_Kittens_Were_Harmed.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:50pm EDT

In which we reflect on 2015 and set our intentions for 2016, talk about all the hijinx from December, and reinvigorate the TwinSet Rare Sheep Challenge.

Direct download: Episode_69_--_Excellent_Intentions.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 4:34pm EDT

In which we catch up from being on hiatus.  Not only do we get back to work on the podcast, but we both got back to work at our paying jobs.  However, twinsetellen  has returned in a part time status, much to her pleasure!  And in which we discuss caring for my grand nephew, my trip to Peru, Finnsheep getting ready for a busy spring, getting pneumonia vaccinations, and cleaning off the needles.!

Direct download: Episode_68_--_Back_to_Work_-_Part_Time.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:10pm EDT

In which Jan and Ellen chat briefly before Ellen sends Jan to bed to get over her pneumonia so she can go to Peru. Lisa (AKA Turbogal) then joins Ellen to provide you with a complete episode chock full of listening pleasure!

Note -- there was a technical glitch with Ellen and Lisa's chat, so you may note a bit of a jog in the conversation at one point. I promise you're not missing anything though!

Listen here: Episode 67 -- Lisa (AKA Turbogal) Picks Up the Slack

Direct download: Episode_67_--_Lisa_Picks_Up_the_Slack.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:06pm EDT

In which we are joyful about the arrival of Andrew and prattle on about many things.

Direct download: Episode_66_--_Delayed_by_Baby.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 10:43pm EDT

In which we discuss how short was the interval between this and the last episode (and yet in which we manage to create almost an hour of audio), jumping the broom, work interfering with knitting, and the fact that Squishy the Squid truly is a squid (and not what others have intimated).  Plus, we have another visit from Dr. Yarn!

Direct download: Episode_65_--_Its_a_Squid_Really.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 11:51am EDT

In which we discuss Ellen's travels to Sweden for World Water Week (there was no wave pool or water slides), apple trees, quick visits with New York daughters, winning state fair entries, squid knitting, and have a short visit with Dr. Yarn and an essay on "Why We Farm." 

Direct download: Episode_64_--_What_Day_Is_It.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:46pm EDT

In which we discuss a fun new craft-a-long with Mastering the Knits, how California's drought is really all of ours, anniversaries (36 for Jan and 35 for Ellen),  crazy highjinx at minor league baseball games (did I mention cowboy monkeys?), boondoggles to Lake Tahoe for frozen toes, some fun finished objects, a review of "A Knitter's Gallery of Mitred Squares - 45 Unique Designs in color, Texture, and Lace" by Jill Begelow Suttell and Jane Bigelow, and Jan's new pattern and at the begining of which Jan gets to congratulate the Knitmores on new baby Rex!

Direct download: Episode_63_--_Still_Crazy_After_All_These_Years.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 4:33pm EDT

In which we give a recap of TwinSet Summer Camp 2015, reaching 1,000 members, the shenanigans of the lamb Squirrel,  a Seattle trip including visits to Tolt and So Much Yarn (and Starbucks!), knits for Vlad and being underwater with our knitting.

Direct download: Episode_62_--_Just_Adorable.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:56am EDT

In which we decide to surprise you with an episode even though we said we were taking a break till after summer camp!

Direct download: Episode_61_--_Surprise.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 3:02pm EDT

In which we take forever to actually start the show, are visited by two delightful guests, and discuss new babies, knitting for new babies, surprise father's day visits on the farm, snack foods and cat discipline.

 

Direct download: Episode_60_--_Fathers_Day_Surprise_Visits.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 12:50am EDT

In which we discuss Shetland wool week, secret handshakes, housecleaning by buying magazines, new plants and new lambs!!, knitting for big feet, the 'Wonderful Wizard of Oz' and all the other wonder out there, getting cranky and lots of other stuff!

Direct download: Episode_59_--_Big_Feet.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 4:37pm EDT

In which we discuss gift bearing alpaca, four more little lambs and precocious ram lambs, downsizing stuff to make it possible to close drawers, but maybe not so much as to fit in tiny houses and other fun stuff.

Direct download: Episode_58_--_Things_are_Going_Swimmingly.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 7:42pm EDT

In which we discuss a dinner for more than two in DC, visits from dear friends (military friends and podcaster friends!), a fun speaking engagement, a visit to DC by Karen, getting the Full Monty, biking around mother nature, Yarnover, Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival, and baby lambs (!!!!), and in which Ellen's geeks out.

Direct download: Episode_57_--_Heaven_Knows.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 1:58pm EDT

In which we discuss stuff.  Okay, I'm too rushed today to do a better job than that.

Direct download: Episode_56_--_Ellen_Takes_a_Break_While_Jan_Yammers_On.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 12:21pm EDT

In which you hear a little bit about Summer Camp this July in Darlington, MD!!

Direct download: TwinSet_Summer_Camp_Promo_2015.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 11:05am EDT

In which we discuss woodpeckers, our recent travels (and our crowded airline seats), the approach of spring, a new to twinsetjan yarn shop, knitting mittens and mitts, Judy Becker's book Beyond Toes -- Knitting Adventures with Judy's Magic Cast-On, taking spindles for walks and the $25 savings for those who register early for TwinSet Summer Camp!

Direct download: Episode_55_--_Knitting_With_Friends.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 6:13pm EDT

In which we discuss connecting with old friends and friends of our daughter/niece, the Iditarod and Iknitarod, cold, snow, trips to the theater and to the emergency room, an interview with Sherill Roi who encourages us to spin 15 in 15, and a review of the book, "Solefull Socks".

Direct download: Episode_54_--_Just_Ducky.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 12:31pm EDT

In which we discuss the cold weather, many babies on the way to knit for and to love, the coming onslaught of mud and (happily) mud sales, knittingless needles, Madrona, water and spirits.  

And in which we announce a chance to receive a free Craftsy Continental Knitting class from Lorilee Beltman (see the forum thread titled, "Why do you want to learn to knit faster?"), a 50% off sale on the same class, and a special for us promotion from Signature Needle Arts.  Use the code TWINST5OFF when you check out online and receive $5 off any $25 purchase!!  (Good through March 16, 2015 at http://http://www.signatureneedlearts.com/)

Direct download: Episode_53_--_The_Forecast_is_Babies.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:06am EDT

In which we discuss how good it is to be back, trips to Ohio to be with family, catching up at work, Sanibel Island get-aways, judgemental spinning, animal husbandry, rivers of birds and finishing a masterpiece!

Direct download: Episode_52_--_Five_Years_in_the_Making.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:47pm EDT

In which we discuss things.  And for which there are no outtakes due to an incomplete edit just to get the episode out.  I explain the very sad reason why in the introduction.

Direct download: Episode_51_--_Dont_Call_Me_Shirley.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:55pm EDT

In which we celebrate the milestone that is episode 50, discuss NYC trips, trip ups with deer, podcaster visits and prank calls, Wilson's continuing mastery of the chess world, precision dancing viewed at Radio City Music Hall with Jenny and light up swizzle sticks (!), pulling it together when your gauge is all over the place and a special outtake for your holiday merriment...oh, and turbogal.

Direct download: Episode_50_--_turbogal_AKA_Lisa.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 3:58pm EDT

In which we discuss filling up our bellies at Thanksgiving, podcast endings and podcaster beginnings, cabbages and kings (well, not kings), fine dining in NYC and nights on the town in DC, visitors and the proper pie ratio, new members of the farm family and a bit of farm animal photography!

Direct download: Episode_49_--_Full_Bellies.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 1:51pm EDT

In which we offer condolences to the "Car Talk family", start a new contest for a Boston Jen design, congratulate Wilson for his "Top 100" chess status, Marie's debut in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade*, Gale Woods Farm, Jan's new job, Buddhist housekeeping, NYC visits to daughter's restaurants (well, restaurants at which daughters play key roles) knitting retreats that bring healing, new playwrites and playing in parks, Dr. Yarn's anger management techniques, Spinzilla and designing for flow, and try to catch up on many other aspects of life!

*Update!  Marie will not be a Christmas tree -- instead she will be a pirate, a treasure chest or a shark devouring a person as one of the wire walkers for the "Pirate's Booty" balloon.  She hopes she gets to be a shark!

Direct download: Episode_48_--_Catch_Me_Up_If_You_Can.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 2:34pm EDT

In which many things are now out of date.  Oops.  Sorry about that.  

 

Key words: knitting spinning designing alpaca sheep

Direct download: Episode_47_--_Melancholy_Bunny.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:48pm EDT

In which we discuss trips to the ball game, trips to Sweden, trips to France, trips to the state fair, trips up north and trips to DC and we get plenty tripped up trying to explain an improvement on last episode's slick trick.  Much other merriment ensues.

Direct download: Episode_46_--_They_Say_Were_Crazy.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 7:46pm EDT

In which we struggle with our pronunciations, sip coffee from drip free mugs, observing wild life at work and at home, avoidance of camnesia, home grown peaches, traveling for business, tech editing for nice designers, overdone bike rides, learning along, mouse melons aka cucamelons aka Mexican Sour gherkins, pickling pots of pickled peppers, projects cleaned off the needles, managing to avoid being bitten by our knittin', discuss the value of discipline and accurate measurements, enjoy a visit from Dr. Yarn, practical fractals, and some other fun stuff!

Direct download: Episode_45_--_You_Say_Potato.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 1:08pm EDT

In which we thank our camp supporters, have a great time chatting about the success that was TwinSet Summer Camp, discuss making play out of work on the Snake River, being surprised by San Antonio yarn shops, shared birthdays and harmonious gifts, taking daughters to birthday dinners, welcoming Heidi back from the trail, various knitting bites (including a real doozy for Ellen and the recurring theme of ignoring pattern instructions), spinning many yards of yarn and using many wheel ratios, inspiration from Abby Franquemont, the Lost Geek Challenge Along and some other stuff.  

 

Yes, it's a LONG episode -- enough for 3 half hour runs or for Louise to clean all the toilets in Mey.

Direct download: Episode_44_--_Back_at_It_Final.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 5:56pm EDT

In which we discuss the kindness of Susan B. Anderson, the TwinSet Dolls World Tour, quiet Independence Days, an abundance and a dearth of cherries, biting off more than one should chew, a new to Dale sailboat, drinking rum punch (possibly to excess), the arrival on the farm of Hedy, Ada, Grete and Grace, and Ellen's compulsion to calculate.

Direct download: Episode_43_--_We_Can_Haz_Math_Skillz.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 8:46am EDT

In which we discuss pre-summer vacation (for some of us), 3 blind mice sightings, multiple LYS visits to include the wall of Cascade (Natural Stitches in Pittsburgh, PA and Fibre Space in Alexandria, VA), the PA Women Veterans Symposium, family gatherings, nature hikes wherein all appendages are retained, achieving apprentice grader and sorcerer status, losing one's car keys and the kindness of strangers who are now true friends and our living dolls.

Direct download: Episode_42_--_Cleaning_Off_the_Needles.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 12:46pm EDT

In which we mention many other podcasters, and in which we discuss squirrel kings, sailboats, shorn alpaca and sheep, getting our hackles up, visits by fast knitting friends, not buying a fleece and then buying one after all, a daughter-in-law hiking the Appalachian trail, sealing up our fine fiber and TwinSet Summer Camp!

Direct download: Episode_41_--_Podcaster_Shout_Out.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:41pm EDT

In which we evidently discuss everything whether it relates to the planned content or not.

Direct download: Episode_40_--_But_We_Digress.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 4:57pm EDT

Episode 39 -- The Wolf Closest to the Sleigh

In which we discuss the craziness that has been our lives in the last month, fiber classes, fiber judging, birdies at our feeders, finally seeing signs of spring in Minnesota, Yarnover and Fiber Fest, visiting family and friends, healthy animals, paying taxes, wearing jelly beans and harvesting golf balls.

Direct download: Episode_39_--_The_Wolf_Closest_to_the_Sleigh.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 7:46pm EDT

Episode 38 -- Marco Polo!!

In which we discuss ongoing winter, the first signs of spring, a broody hen, a great knitting class with Candace Eisner Strick, insane activity in Jan's life (that ended up preventing her from getting this episode edited for THREE weeks...yes, that's right, three weeks), the languishing effort to get the Fair Winds Farm etsy shop open, our knitting and some tunisian crochet, the availability of the Paving Mitts pattern from Ellen, choosing yarn colors for a multiple yarn project like those mitts, the Living Doll KAL, a trick, an embellishment and some more information about a possible summer camp this July.

Direct download: Episode_38_--_Marco_Polo.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 12:45pm EDT

In which we discuss the ever continuing winter (in the frigid north), being inspired by new spinners at Gale Wood Farm, bringing home ribbons from the AOA show, the danger of loose dogs, chess party animals, putting the best edge on a garter stitch baby blanket, swatching for socks, colors to dye for, and getting gauge in the worst possible way.

Direct download: Episode_37_--_Teaser.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 2:46pm EDT

In which we discuss the continuing cold weather, alpaca escapades, animal visitors, renewed work on UFOs, extreme knitting repair, four and a half miles of singles, improving the likelihood that a yarn substitution will be successful, the wonderful designs of Aurélie Coras, stick on pockets, Iditaknitting, and in which we enjoy a visit from Dr. Yarn.

Direct download: Ep_36_--_Spring_Forward.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:04pm EDT

Episode 35 -- Show Notes to Follow

In which we discuss business trips with drive by yarn shop stops, discover we are both connected to an Indie dyer, alpaca barn parties, yet more snow, class with Abby Franquemont, cranking and spinning, cabled yarns, spinning wheel maintenance, a bit of outside work for Jan and a trip to the MN Closed Chess Championship for Wilson.  (Congrats, Wilson!)

Direct download: Episode_35_--_Show_Notes_to_Follow.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 10:07pm EDT

Episode 34 -- Of Buns and Birds

In which we discuss buns of the bunny variety, birds of the painted variety, quick trips to Mexico and the Sunshine State, Spin Off judging, ice storms, back spasms, cast-ons and cast-offs, marking hanks of handspun and Russian Joins in honor of the event taking place in Sochi.

Direct download: Episode_34_--_Of_Buns_and_Birds.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:11pm EDT

In which we discuss our recent experiences at retreats (Ellen at the Knitajourney Mid-Winter Retreat in Duluth, MN and Jan at Tina's Fiber Retreat in York, PA), farm medical procedures from which several of the animals would have like to retreat, the dangers of knitting lace after the drams, the value of The Knitting Guild of America Master Knitter classes, the whimsical and classic designs of Ann Kelly, plying yards and yards of Corriedale Cross a slick trick and some other stuff -- to include a new spinner!

Direct download: Episode_33_--_Retreat.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 1:46pm EDT

In which for some unknown reason we sound muffled. (I did have a stuffy nose and sinuses, but Ellen was healthy so that's not the reason and I processed the file in the same manner, so that's not the reason.  Urgh! Sometimes this podcasting stuff is hard!  Well, you can still understand us, so you're getting it as it is.)  And in which we discuss the cold (maybe that's it, we were wrapped in scarves and mufflers?), haunted barns (maybe a ghost is choking us?), idea weekends with ideas that Ellen can't share or she'd have to kill us (maybe she was smothering us with pillows?, but why would she smother herself?), a trip to DC with a stop at a new to me yarn shop (maybe I'm buried in yarn and fiber?), spinning and handling alpaca at the PA Farm Show (maybe an alpaca is sitting on us?), grilled cheese and tomato soup (maybe our mouths are full?), and Susan B. Anderson's new e-book, "Mary, Millie and Morgan" (that's it, those dolls are so cute you want to gobble them up...our mouths ARE full!).

Direct download: Episode_32_--_A_Living_Doll_Final.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 12:47pm EDT

In which we discuss our good fortune at Christmastime and in the opening days of 2014, Valor the Ram, a strategy for giving, the great alpaca drop of 2014, getting back to work on some big knitting projects, our review of 2013 and our goals for 2014, how to take stock and why you should eat more beans.

(Be sure to listen to the outtakes if you want to understand the title!)

Direct download: Episode_31_--_Bitten_by_Our_Kittens.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:50pm EDT

In which we discuss the return of the light (and the owls), ice lanterns, the great Weaver's Guild of Minnesota fiber estate sale, finally receiving processed fiber from the spring shearing, Christmas visits, what's in Ellen's pocketses, the best Christmas card ever,  seeing Santa Claus, publication of Ellen's pattern "Bitsy Baby Beanies", successful design modifications and a winner of the Swagger DALKAL, some knitting and spinning and Ellen endures Jan's singing.

Direct download: Episode_30_--_We_Believe.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 5:52pm EDT

In which we discuss* our Thanksgiving celebration, knitwear on fire, alpaca with trench-o-phobia, cold and snowy weather, planning to make the most of your knitting time, shades of colors, crispy duck skin and foregone conclusions for the outcome of the Army-Navy game.  (Navy will win, in case you are wondering!)

*And all in less than an hour!

Direct download: Episode_29_--_Hats_alot_of_Knitting.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:07pm EDT

In which we abandon our usual format to welcome a fellow podcaster to the microphone.  You'll have to listen to find out who it is!  And in which we discuss what's going on on both sides of the Atlantic, a bit more about ourselves, and of course, our knitting.

Direct download: Episode_28_--_Podcasting_Across_the_Pond.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 7:32pm EDT

In which we extend our thoughts and prayers to those affected by storms near and far, and in which we discuss nasty colds, prolonged podcasting absence, rapid Master Knitter responses and successes, the end of an era in which Solveig reigned in the world of Bohus, responsible use of GPS and liquor, Finnsheep, the Knitting Pipeline Maine Retreat, visiting with dear friends, Blacker Yarns, designing colorwork mitts and more!!

Direct download: Episode_27_--_Knock_Knock.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 11:37am EDT

In which we discuss the Cat Bordhi Fall knitting Retreat, Frog Tree Yarns, the impressive research of David Krag (who with the help of knitters will eliminate the need for chemotherapy for many cancer patients!!!), Yoda and Red Roosters, Master Knitter II Submission madness and wild and crazy chess players, aquaknitting, The House of Jerky, super food, dressing like twins, the designer Melinda VerMeer (she does not have a pearl earring) and how knitters can do great good in the world.  (More felfs!  Less Chemo!)

Listen here:  Episode 26 -- More Felfs, Less Chemo!!

Direct download: Episode_26_--_More_Felfs_Less_Chemo.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:34pm EDT

In which we discuss trips to Ohio, visits with siblings, fiber processing workshops, the secret to drum carding, poncho-mania, knitting and saunaing in the north woods, prize winning knitting, the size of Wilson's head, the size of Ellen's head, Jan's loss of brain cells, dizzes and punis, safety to dye for, and the good fortune to be heading to Cat Bordhi's Fall Retreat.

Direct download: Episode_25_--_Three__One__Five.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 5:41pm EDT

In which we discuss the new Knitty, lakes that aren't lakes, really great spinning wheels, black...err...um...orange cats, more tomatoes, a Swagger KAL, the Ricefield Collective, lack of yarn, failure to read patterns, getting from design ideas to actual written patterns, a prize weiner and busy days ahead.

Direct download: Episode_24_--_Orange_is_the_New_Black.mp3
Category:Knitting, Spinning, Designing -- posted at: 7:43pm EDT

In which we discuss our Seattle trip for the fabulous Bohus knitting workshop, the weather, fair food, prizes for knitting everywhere, camelid fiber grading workshops, capturing domestic and wild life, Bohus knitting and reknitting, share a negative space essay about returning home, and learn some more fiber jargon and another slick trick.

Direct download: Episode_23_--_Second_Sock_Syndrome.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:38pm EDT

In which we discuss zoological explorations, tomatoes coming out of our ears, pedicures for alpaca, holographic Kelly Clarkson, biking to work, state fair entries, making a sweater in 2 years, fiber preparations, yertles (fiber turtles), and a meetup in Seattle.

Direct download: Episode_22_--_Otter_Nonsense.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:32pm EDT

In which we discuss the birth of Violet...other stuff too, but really, Violet is what was important.  (Okay, we also discuss beach vacations, 90th birthday parties, chickens to the freezer, knitting polygamy, making iced tea more delicious, a few knitting nibbles, what to do with 80 yards of bulky handspun, roving, top, batt and sliver (oh, my!) and have a delightful visit by Dr. Yarn.)

Direct download: Episode_21_--_Hello_Violet.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:10pm EDT

In which we discuss population changes on the farm and in the backyard, barn raising, post pounding, fireworks on the Stone Arch Bridge, turkey escapees, awkward teenage birds, grizzlypig shenanigans, cherries for pie, vegetables for pickles, an expectant mother, good progress on many projects, how helpful it is to actually read directions, hiding decreases in ribbing, knitting cues, pitting tools and many, many contests.  And be sure to note the "summer25" discount code on Goodstuff's Ravelry downloads!

Direct download: Episode_20_--_Quickly_Recorded_Slowly_Published.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:26pm EDT

In which we discuss (at length! -- it's been 4 weeks after all!) knitting to the end of the skein, starting many projects, the big straw harvest of 2013, living through loss of internet and barely living through a knock out virus, animal population explosions at the farm, many visitors and visits to Rhode Island and DC, lots of contests, reinforced selvedges, motivational spinning with the tour de fleece and a featured designer.

Direct download: Episode_19_--_Knit_Everything.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 9:59am EDT

In which we discuss bird spotting, the mechanics of making hay, exercise options (totally!), motivation for riding, garden prospects, possible new neighbors, grand-dog sitting, the wisdom of dyeing hair while engaged in fine hand knitting, two cases of startosis, knitting on the needles, no knitting off the needles, making batts and making yarn, a listener design challenge, design principles a la Annie Modesitt, Sarah Punderson's designs, reflections on Fiber Fest by some of our favorite knitterati, bags from swag, and a contest!

Direct download: Episdoe_18_--_Making_Hay_While_the_Sun_Shines.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 4:15pm EDT

In which I wonder where Ellen spent the money she was given for singing lessons, Ellen delves into algebra to solve the classic math problem "Gigi's Socks", we discuss much (much, much, much) activity in the patterns of our lives (multiple fiber festivals included!!), trips to Minnesota and NYC, visits with daughters, fine dining, farm lessons and lessons learned (Sorry, Chicks!), the value of a good shearer and many knitting nibbles, and we chat with the mothers of Steven Berg and Stephen West.  Phew!!


In which Ellen sings and is repetitive and in which we discuss Yarnover and Fiber Fest, a great review from Jasmin & Gigi, Thunder Snow!, quick trips to Ohio, Spring springing...and not, farm stuff, mouse melons, love blankets, snow and the frozen north, blended colors and intarsia, when eagerness overwhelms instinct, yarn to dye for, figure irregularities, the magic bullet and Yarnover and Fiber Fest.

Cover Art by Martin Austermuhle

Direct download: Episode_16_--_Thundersnow_MP3.mp3
Category:Hobbies -- posted at: 1:36pm EDT