Yarns from the Plain

Episode 38: Happy New Year!

2012-01-29T22:34:00.006Z

Hello from my newly decorated conservatory! This episode I natter about nibbling sleeves, compare spinners to moths, and contemplate future plans.

Giveaway
If you would like to be entered into the giveaway for either a skein of laceweight Posh yarn or a skein of sockweight Posh Yarn, leave me a message by February 4th telling me which one you'd like to win and why. You can leave a message here on the show notes, over on the show notes on the Podbean site, over at the Ravelry group, or drop me an email on yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com.

Off The Needles
I finished the Rainbow Scrappy Liesl.

Details are here.

I have been spinning the Cheviot I got in the Secret Santa on the UK Spinners board on Ravelry from Shunklies (no pictures yet I'm afraid).

Woolsack Update
The Cheshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers have started their Woolsack cushion campaign by making little squares.

Something I Really Like
BBC Drama

Gratuitous Conservatory Picture
Here's one taken the day the floor was laid. Check out Stella's confusion over the reflection in the roof!

Links
Posh Yarn
Ysolda Teague
Socktopus
Woolsack
JaneKAL
Sheepfold
Blacker Yarns
Jamieson's of Shetland
The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain AT googlemail DOT com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 37 show notes

2012-01-15T09:13:00.008Z

Hello from an echo-y conservatory in the Cheshire Plain. This episode I talk Christmas, gin, giveaways and handspun!

Giveaway
If you would like to be entered into the giveaway for either a skein of laceweight Posh yarn or a skein of sockweight Posh Yarn, leave me a message by January 31st telling me which one you'd like to win and why. You can leave a message here on the show notes, over on the show notes on the Podbean site,

On (and Off) The Needles
I finished the One-Row Handspun Scarf in my first (and second) wheelspun in merino. My Ravelry project details are here.

I didn't finish the second pair of Mrs Beetons, so there are no photos on my Ravelry notes yet.

I made Christmas cards using some of JaneKAL's 9 patch cushion pattern for Woolsack. Details are sketchy, but here and here.

I made a start on my Rainbow Scrappy Liesl, too. Details are here.

Festive Fibre-y Gifts
I took part in the Secret Santa on the UK Spinners board on Ravelry and got some lovely goodies from Shunklies:

I also got a stand for my Ashford Loom from my hubby and The Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook from Mum and Dad.

Links:
Posh Yarn
Woolsack site

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 37: Happy Podiversary To Me!

2011-12-29T12:19:00.001Z

Full show notes will follow shortly.

If you'd like to enter the Posh Yarn giveaway, leave a message here or over at the Ravelry board telling me why you would like to win a skein of laceweight Posh Yarn or a skein of sockweight Posh Yarn.

Happy New Year!

Nic x

Episode 36: The Night Before Christmas

2011-12-24T15:11:00.007Z

Hello from an unseasonably mild Cheshire Plain. This episode is another brief one, just to keep me sane I think...

On the Needles: I now have a pair of finished Mrs Beeton, knit in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK and Debbie Bliss Party Angel in pale greys. The ends are not yet woven in and I need to wrap them soon. I cast on a second pair using the charcoal DB Cashmerino DK but it won't be finished. I'm also using my first ever wheelspun yarn to make a small scarf for my Dad, using the One Row Handspun Scarf pattern by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee. No photos I'm afraid. Half finished and unlikely to be for Christmas morning.

Something I really Like: Christmas Countdown by Frank Kelly

Music:
Intro music is Sans Day Carrol-Sussex Carol-Deck The Halls by James Edwards, from the Magnatune Compilation album Christmas Music and the piece in the middle is Six Noels Anciens: Venez mes enfants (Patriquin) by Stephane Potvin and the Con Brio Choir, from Goode Christemas Musicke, both available from Magnatune. The final piece is Boars Head Carol performed by Jon Boden, released as part of the Folk Song A Day podcast project.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN and Season's Greetings to you all,
Nic

Episode 35: Descent into Madness

2011-12-18T14:42:00.005Z

Hello from chilly Cheshire! Just a brief episode today, updating you on the Christmas gift knitting here on the Plain.

On the Needles: One finished Mrs Beeton, knit in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK and Debbie Bliss Party Angel in pale greys.

Listener Suggestion for Quick Gift Patterns:
Daisy Frog suggested Fast & Easy Fingerless Mitts
Helenhfj suggested Gradient Mitts and the Little Shells shawlette
PokedaGoblin suggested the Cranford Mitts
FatCat suggested Starving Artist and Starving Musician

Music:
Intro music is Sans Day Carrol-Sussex Carol-Deck The Halls by James Edwards, final music is Dancing Day Part II: Coventry Carol (Rutter) by Stephane Potvin and the Con Brio Choir, both from the Magnatune Compilation album Christmas Music, available from Magnatune.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 34: Argh....Christmas!

2011-12-11T15:37:00.005Z

Oops! I wrote the post but saved it to draft instead of publishing it. Doh!

Hello from a very wet Cheshire Plain. Today I dream about a future space, announce a winner and gibber not so quietly about the nigh-on uncontrollable urge to knit Christmas presents.

Congratulations to PokedAGoblin, who has won the lovely Crafts From The Dungeon Mayan Spinner from Episode 31.

Suggestions for quick(ish) present knits:
Quick Cable Slouch Hat by Azure
Calorimetry by Kathryn Schoendorf
One Row Handspun Scarf by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
A cowl knit in chunky yarn, like the ones here and here I knitted last year.
Fetching and Dashing by Cheryl Niamath
Mrs Beeton by Brenda Dayne (Ravelry downlad available from here)
Scar by Julie Gardner
Tidepool Socks by Rainy Day Goods

Links:
Sarah Hazell
Fibre and Clay
Rowan Colourscape Chunky
Woolsack
Sheepfold (Scroll down to find the utterly delicious Methera)
Debbie Bliss Donegal Aran Tweed, as used in my Chocolate Stripes sweater

Music:
Intro music is Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, final music is Shchedrik - Carol of the Bells by Kitka, from the Magnatune Compilation album Christmas Music, both available from Magnatune.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 33: Woolsack - A Call To Arms

2011-12-05T07:11:00.003Z

Hello from a blustery Cheshire Plain. This episode is entirely focussed on the Woolsack project, including an interview with JaneKAL

My Woolsack Cushions are detailed here and here.

Links:
The Woolsack site (www.woolsack.org) has a long list of suppliers of British Yarn. I've mainly been using yarn and fibre from Sheepfold and
Blacker Yarns.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

2011-11-23T22:16:00.003Z

Hello from a chilly Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk about extra spinning, the joy of little hats and saggy knees. We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Giveaway: To win a Mayan Spinner from Crafts From The Dungeon, leave a comment here, on the show notes at the http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/ site or over at the Ravelry group, finishing off this sentence: "I want to win a Mayan Spinner because..." Leave your comment by 24th November 2011.

On the Needles and the Bobbin: Apologies for the lack of pictures, but the decreased levels of light are thwarting me at the moment. I've made Tubey and Waltzer from Wee Woolly Toppers and a couple of Christmas Pudding Hats from Debbie Bliss's Kids Knits for Heads, Hands and Toes. I've spun extra yarn for my handspun Rainbow Liesl, which I will cast on soon. I've also been working on Woolsack cushions, but more on those next time.

Review: Big Girls Knits by Jill Moreno and Amy Singer

Tears: Remember this sweater? Well, it doesn't look like that any more... (photos to follow when I can bring myself too)

Links:
Woolly Wormhead;
Woolsack;
Fibre & Clay;

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 31: The One Without The Knitting

2011-10-29T09:06:00.017+01:00

Hello from a drizzly Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk about all the other things I've been doing instead of knitting, play with a new toy and wax lyrical about squash.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Not on the Needles (!): Something that will potentially become a Kauni Wrap...

...some Tunisian crochet...

...some scrap spinning...

...and some Polymer buttons.

Review: Mayan Spinnner Kit, £15 plus p&p. including a hand-carded batt and instructions, from Crafts From The Dungeon.

Giveaway: To win a pretty Mayan Spinner just like mine, leave a comment here, on the show notes at the http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/ site or over at the Ravelry group, finishing off this sentence: "I want to win a Mayan Spinner because..." Leave your comment by 24th November 2011.

Something I really like: Cooking with squashes! One favourite is a stuffed squash using a Schwartz Spices mix, another is a risotto I created this week, using roasted chunks of butternut squash and chorizo.

Links:
Scandinavian Knitting Design;
Fibre & Clay;
Heike Gittins' blog and the Knitsisters website;
Clayaround;

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 30: The One With The Knitting

2011-10-14T20:42:00.006+01:00

Hello from an autumnal Cheshire Plain. In this episode I consider startitis and finishitis, worry about pilling and get over-excited.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

On the Needles: I've finished the I remember Mama socks, knitted a swatch and picked up the Stripey Noro Messenger Bag again.

Review: The Scrumptious Collection Volume 1 from Fyberspates

Something I really like: Wales' performance in the Rugby World Cup!

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 29: Postcards (From The Edge?)

2011-09-18T20:49:00.008+01:00

Hello from a hectic Cheshire Plain! I'm back to earth with a bump after what may well be the best holiday I've ever had. Join me as I knit at some spectacular landmarks!

Knitting on the Easy Knits plain vanilla sock at Four Corners:

And again at Monument Valley:

The "I Remember Mama" socks (my project details here) at the Grand Canyon:

And at London Bridge at Lake Havasu City:

Then in front of the Golden Gate Bridge (it is there, honestly!):

And at AT&T Stadium, watching the Giants versus the San Diego Padres.

Whilst in San Francisco, I visited two yarn stores recommended by listeners. First up, the delightful Imaginiknit on 18th Street at Sanchez. This is the animal fibre room....

...whilst this is the plant-and-other-fibres room.

Then the unique Artfibers on Sutter Street and Grant.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 28: Normal Service

2011-08-14T09:18:00.005+01:00

Oops! Sorry, thought I'd published these on Monday 15th August when I'd actually saved to draft!

Hello from a cool and breezy Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk listener stats, review UFOs and succomb to the electronic.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

On The Needles: I finished my Sideways Beanie with a moss stitch band in the end.

I also listened to your advice and cast on the second Poshman Mitten and I've reached the decreases.

Review:Knitty Issue 36, First Fall 2011

Something I really like: My Kindle

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 27: Catching Up

2011-08-05T21:43:00.007+01:00

Hello AGAIN from the Cheshire Plain! This is the last episode in this marathon catching up session, honest!

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

In this episode I talked about various events linked to the Cheshire Spinning Guild (the Ravelry Group for the Guild is here), including the Exhibition at Dunham Massey and the trip to Woolfest. I also mentioned the Wool Experience and the gorgeous ice cream at Blaze Farm.

Here is the Great Wheel in use at Blaze Farm:

I also attended a Woolly Wormhead sideways hat workshop at Fibre & Clay, based on her book Going Straight. My hat needs maybe an hour's more work before it's finished.

And talking of finishing... which of these should I finish first?

1.Posh Yarn Featherweight cardigan
2. Poshman Mittens
3. Stripy Noro Messenger Bag
4. Modern Quilt Wrap
5. Tank Top in Noro Kuryon Sock Yarn
6. Lizard Ridge Afghan
7. Olympic Medal Socks (I'll probably take these on holiday anyway)
8. Pondemonium child's stranded sweater
9. Best of Both Whirls Cushion
10. Double Vision Cushion
11. Hipknits Silk Aran Fair Isle Cardigan

So leave me a message here, drop me an email or post in the Ravelry forum!

And finally.... which is THE yarn shop to visit in San Francisco?

TTFN, Nic

Episode 26: Best In Show?

2011-08-04T18:45:00.011+01:00

Hello from a wet Cheshire Plain. OK, it's raining, but after the heatwave I've experienced over the last week, I'm enjoying feeling cooler! Sadly I'm still arguing with the new mic, so I've used the hand-held again.

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

This episode is sub-titled the ME, ME, ME show (thanks Louise!) and features a detailed run down of the items I entered in the Oxfordshire County and Thame Show at the weekend.

Firstly for the Knitting Class, I submitted my Mint Choc Chip scarf, which is the Chevron Scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts.

In the Baby Knitting, I made this sweater, the February Baby Sweater from the Knitter's Almanac. I found meleliza's Ravelry notes very helpful.

For the Crochet Class, I made the Circles Scarf by Linda Permann (details of my project here).

For the Embroidered Picture, I finished this that has been lurking in my embroidery UFO bin for a very long time. The motifs are based on those in Jo Verso's World of Cross Stitch, and the composition inspired by one of hers, but the final design is mine.

For the Beadwork Class, I entered my first ever piece of beadwork (other than simply threading beads onto a string), which I learnt on a course at The Bead Trail at Blakemere Craft Centre, Sandiway.

In the Item made from Recycled Materials, I entered a gift bag made from the Financial Times.

For the Three Handmade Cards Class I entered two Lacé designs (the Golden Wedding and Birthday cards) and one iris folding design (New Baby).

The entry into the Cushion Class involved some "teach yourself" skills, namely wet felting and needle felting. The main fabric was made from two shades of grey carded Gotland fleece from Eden Gotland Sheep, with the creamy white curls from May Hill Gotlands (gotland_mayhill@yahoo.com) in the Forest of Dean and the dark curls from Diesel from the Pedwardine Gotland flock in South Lincolnshire needlefelted onto the finished cushion.

Finally I entered 98g/382 yds of 2ply handspun made from Yummy Yarns carded batts (merino, bamboo, silk, firestar and mohair threads) in the Duchess of Cambridge colourway.

I also entered these photos, too:

"Stick Dressing, Northumberland County Show" for "Country Life"

"Elmer in the Garden, Eating Lupins" for "My Pet"

And here is the Thame Show Trophy, for the most points in the Handicrafts Section. Don't get over-awed, it's only six inches high!

TTFN, Nic

Episode 25.2: Do-over

2011-08-03T21:15:00.004+01:00

Hello from a sunny Cheshire Plain. Apologies for the long delay in re-recording this. Even now, I haven't quite worked out the new mic as I needed to swap to the hand-held recorder for the last part.
We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

On my needles and spinning wheel: Between Episode 24 and the beginning of May, I finished two bears for the Mother Bear Project. I also plied more of the the Picperfec singles into a 4 ply with a view to making a Liesl.

Otto

Coco

Review: Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders, edited by Judith Durant, published by Storey Publishing.

Agricultural Shows: I'm gearing up for the Oxfordshire County and Thame Show on the 30th July. I also mention the following shows:

Wigtown Show: 3rd August
Bakewell Show: 3rd&4th August
Fishguard Show: 5th August
Cranleigh Show: 7th August
Sedgefield Show: 14th August
Gillingham & Shaftsbury Show: 17th August
Hawkshead Show: 23rd August
Poynton Show: 27th August
Bucks County Show: 1st September

A full events calendar can be found on the website of the Association of Agricultural Organisations.

TTFN, Nic

Technical Issues

2011-06-19T08:52:00.001+01:00

Hello all, I'm still trying to sort out the sound quality issues, I'm aware that the last few episodes using the iPhone or the hand held recorder have had some background noise, and the sound quality on the new mic was nbearable for some. I don't want to put up a new episode that others can't listen to, so I'm still wrestling with that, please hang in there, I hope to be back soon.

Nic

Episode 25

2011-05-24T19:01:00.001+01:00

Due to the sound quality, I am aiming to re-record the main points of this episode as soon as I can. Apologies.

Listeners' Map

2011-04-22T08:53:00.001+01:00

We have a listeners' map! Please go on over to pop in a pin - I'd love to see where you all are!

Episode 24: Wonderwool Wales 2011

2011-04-17T11:00:00.014+01:00

Hello from a blooming Cheshire Plain. In this episode, come with me as I go to Wonderwool Wales! Apologies for the occasional background noise, I've tried to even the levels out as best I could.

On my needles and spinning wheel: I've been working on a bear for the Mother Bear Project, some Baker's Dozen Squares and my sock yarn blanket. I've also tried plying the Picperfec singles into a 4 ply and it's just what I want!

At Wonderwool I met up with guzzisue from the Spinnotts (click here for more info about them) and ambermoggie at the Ravelry Meet-up area. I also spotted Jess in the finger-crocheted hat (sorry, can't remember your Rav name!) teaching Angie and Penny how to spin:

I spotted more historic mill bobbins at The Threshing Barn and bought one.

I also bought some fibre from Freyalyn's Fibres and some felted jewellery making cupkits from Bryncurl Workshops.

I also saw some sheep! First some Shetlands...

... then a gorgeous Leicester Longwool...

...and finally some Manx Loaghtan (but I only photographed the ram, not the two ewes).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 23: Moebius or Möbius?

2011-03-28T06:51:00.002+01:00

Hello from a blooming Cheshire Plain! This episode I share a little industrial heritage, show my maths geek credentials and ponder travel plans.

Review: Patricia Ackroyd's talk at the Cheshire WSD Guild meeting last week and the Heike Gittins workshop at Fibre and Clay.

Heike

Some of the other course delegates

What's on my wheel and needles: The Picperfec fibre continues apace, I think it's time to "swatch ply" to see how thick the finished yarn will be. The sock yarn blanket is also growing nicely and this weekend I've completed a Moebius (Möbius?) cowl in Rowan Felted Tweed and Rowan Kidsilk Haze at the worshop. Something I really like: Making travel plans! Any suggestions for the South Western states of the USA?

Upcoming Events: Wonderwool Wales at Builth Wells, Powys, 9th and 10th April; Woolfest in Cockermouth, Cumbria, 24th and 25th June; Knit Nation in London, 15th-17th July; a range of workshops at Fibre and Clay, including another Moebius Knitting workshop on 17th September and Tunisian Crochet on 10th September and 15th October.

I haven't as yet started one, but if you're interested in knitting or crocheting a bear for the Mother Bear Project, details can be found here. Sorry I was too late for your KAL/CAL, Dr Gemma!

Links: Ackroyd and Dawson; Heike Gittins' blog and the Knitsisters website; Picperfec's Etsy shop, Fluff and Stuff; Carol Feller; CogKNITive Podcast.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune. Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN, Nic

Episode 22: Er... Happy New Year?

2011-03-13T14:01:00.013Z

Hello from a definitely spring-like Cheshire Plain. In this episode I grovel about my tardiness, share a story of infestation and cuddle up under my sock yarn blanket. On a technical note, apologies for the sound quality. I recorded it on my iPhone, but of course that's in an MP4 format, not MP3, so I couldn't import it into Audacity to edit, hence the hiss and the lack of theme tune. Hopefully normal service will resume next time.

What's on my hooks and needles: I finished my own Rowan Colourscape cowl over the New Year and that's the only thing I've finished all year! Ravelry details here.

I have however knitted and crocheted some squares for the Baker's Dozen swaps:

Pictures of the squares I've received are here.

I'm also working on my sock yarn blanket, so here are the photos from this morning:

Something I really like: My Fitflop Mukluk boots. Mine are in chocolate!

Upcoming events: A variety of courses from Purl City Yarns in Manchester; Moebius Knitting at Fibre and Clay on 26th March; Cheshire SWD Guild spinning at Norton Priory (16th April) and Dunham Massey (7th and 8th May)

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 21: One Year Old!

2010-12-29T14:52:00.007Z

Hello from a defrosted Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk last minute Christmas knitting, share discoveries over my sense of self and raise a glass in toast!

On the Needles: Here's a photo of the second Christmas cowl, knit in Thistledown Yarns as promised last time:

I also completed these socks at the last minute:

The pattern is Scar by Julie Gardner and can be downloaded for free here from her blog. Details of this pair can be found on my Ravelry projects page here.

I have also cast on a third cowl, again in the Rowan Colourscape Chunky:

Review: Rowan Colourscape Chunky

Something I Really Like: My new D-SLR camera and playing on Flickr!

And yes, this was me during the podcast today. Not quite mastered the art of smiling yet...

Happy New Year!

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 20: Christmas Cheer!

2010-12-17T19:25:00.005Z

Hello from a frozen Cheshire Plain. In this episode I make excuses for not knitting, visit a new shop and drink mulled wine- hic!

On the Needles: I finished the second Christmas cowl, made from Thistledown Yarns. I've not yet put it on Ravelry in case it gets spotted, so no photos yet, I'm afraid.

Review: Purl City Yarns, Manchester

Something I Really Like: Christmas decorations and the wonderful smells of Christmas.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Links: Garnstudio Drops; King Cole; Designer Yarns; Green Eyed Monsters; Wild Fire Fibres; Fyberspates; Natural Dye Studio; Lorna's Laces.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

Have a peaceful and relaxing Christmas!

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 19: Christmas Spirit

2010-12-05T19:42:00.005Z

Hello from a slushy Cheshire Plain. This week we've had snow, along with most of the UK, although the thaw started yesterday. Still plenty of the white stuff on the Peaks in the distance though! This week I talk about gifts, acrylic and music and announe the winner of the draw.

On the Needles/Hooks: I'm stockpiling a few 8x8 inch squares, although I have no photos to share. I've turned a short row heel on the first Biffle+ sock and started my own design of circular lace shawl in Kidsilk Haze. This morning I finished my first Christmas gift, a cowl for one of my cousins.

Review: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice Worsted

Something I Really Like: Christmas music! What's your top recommendation for trimming the tree? Let me know.

Upcoming Events: A variety of day courses at Fibre & Clay in the new year, including learning to crochet, Tunisian crochet and Moebius knitting. Details on their website or telephone 01565 652035. Purl City Yarns have an evening with Natural Dye Studio on Wednesday 8th December and with Fyberspates on Saturday 11th December. Book a place through email: info@purlcityyarns.com

Links: Banyan Tree Yarns

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 18: A Flurry of Fibre (and Yarn!)

2010-11-11T06:25:00.014Z

Hello from a very blustery Cheshire today. Batten down the hatches, mother! In this episode, I talk Tudor, catch up with some new friends and reflect on how bad I am at actually joining in!

On the Needles and Hooks: I finished the Schuyler blanket in memory of Andrew and Claire that I first talked about in Episode 2.

Thanks to everyone who contributed a square: smorancie; simplebeans; elljay; sassi-sketti; diamandy; jenknitsalot; LateFordinner; LKManitou; blakdove; Scarletti; YarnDiva; instar; NinjaBunnyStudios; Una; my Mum and also to YarnCloud and Riana for the help in edging.Thanks also to fakeknitter for the beautiful label.

I've also caught up on some Baker's Dozen Squares. This is the Starburst New Millenium 12" block by Designs by Muggins.

I've also cast on for a plain sock in EasyKnits Biffle+ in the Carosel colourway. Love it!

It's so lovely, I bought some for you too! Here it is in Boysenberry. If you'd like to win this, leave a comment telling me why you have to have it in your stash, either here, or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/ or at the Ravelry group here by the end of 30th November 2010.

Fibre Flurry was a real joy, well organised with a heaving market place in a delightful location. Here are the two buildings. Firstly, the Saracen's Head, where the market place and the cafe were:

Then the Old Grammar School, the site of the workshops:

Review: Easyknits Biffle+ in 70% Superwash BFL/ 20% Silk / 10% Cashmere

Something I really Like: Sock Clubs. Photo shows lollipop.yarn yarn from Catherine on the left and Wollmeise from the Socktopus Knit Love Club on the right.

I also reveal my first parcel from the EasyKnits Sock Club. (I'm not sponsored by EasyKnits, BTW, I just love the yarn!)

Links: Knitting Goddess; Posh Yarn; FeltStudioUK; Ann Kingstone; Atomic Knitting.

Don't forget the competition for the Easyknits Biffle + in Boysenberry. Leave a comment telling me why you have to have it in your stash, either here, or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/ or at the Ravelry group here by the end of 30th November 2010.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 17 show notes

2010-10-31T14:50:00.004Z

Another intersection with the fail whale here, since I didn't get these up within 24 hours of the show last week as I had hoped. These aren't even going to be proper show notes as the bits I really needed to post contact details for have gone (or almost have). However, I can give you a photo of Alice Starmore and Eala Bhan.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 16: UK Knit Camp (Part the Second)

2010-09-20T06:54:00.004+01:00

Hello from an autumnal Cheshire Plain. In this episode I offer up a moment of ritual humiliation with an authority figure, reflect on professional behaviour and talk about record breakers.

Swag from Knit Camp:

Natural shades of Shetland sample packs from Jamieson & Smith; Rainbow Merino Tops from EasyKnits; a selection of luscious fibres from Freyalyn's Fibres; undyed Falkland (not in picture) from DT Craft & Design green 100% superwash merino from Abstract Cat; two 100% Superwash Merino from Left Coast Yarns; and a nice 100% wool (can't remember what!) in heathery pinks from Thistledown Yarns.

Back to Back Challenge:

Team members posing with the Provost of Stirling, Fergus Wood. From L to R: Astrid and Angela (co-owners of knittybitty.de), Susan, the Provost, Ann (in front), Miriam (behind) and Freyalyn. Sandra is behind Freyalyn and obscured in this shot.

The finished article! From L to R: Ann, Susan, Sandra, Astrid, Steve modelled the sweater, Angela, Miriam and Freyalyn (with thanks to Woolly Thoughts for the use of the photograph).

Upcoming Events: Susan Crawford at Fibre & Clay, Knutsford, 21st and 23rd September; http://www.fibreflurry.co.uk/, Birmingham, 30th October.

Additional Links: Woolly Wormhead; Horti Honey's blogpost and Lucy Neatby's blogpost about Knit Camp.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain and on Twitter as talesfromplain (although Tweeting can be sporadic!).

TTFN,
Nic

Episode 15: UK Knit Camp (Part the First)

2010-08-22T20:33:00.014+01:00

Hello from behind a pile of fibre and washing here in the Cheshire Plain. Another bumper episode this week, with a report from the weekdays of the recent UK Knit Camp at Stirling in Scotland. Despite organisational problems and a lack of communication for day visitors, I had a brilliant time. I took classes with Jon Dunn of EasyKnits, Lucy Neatby, Kate Tetlow and Mary Jane Mucklestone.

Photos from Jon's spinning class...

...and shots of my handspun taken in Mary Jane's class.

Animal, spun from batts from EverImprovingMe

Navajo-plied fibre from DT Craft & Design bought at Wonderwool Wales in April

I also have an overwhelming desire to make Lucy Neatby's Bubbles Scarf. Luckily there's a knit-a-long for the pattern in September.

There's also an interview with the designer of the Knit Camp Vest, Ann Kingstone.

Finally, if you want to imagine me whirling Debbie Stoller around the dance floor, this is (sort of) what we were doing:

TTFN,
Nic

Gremlin Attack!

2010-08-09T09:12:00.001+01:00

Arghhh!!!!! the Gremlins have got in! Between 47 minutes and 51 minutes of Episode 14, you are going to be subjected to the most bizarre bit of audio - I'm describing cow colours and I seem to have been taken over by an alien from Dr Who. You can make out the words, but really, I'm only talking about colours and cow's backsides. Just fast forward!

Sorry!!!

Episode 14: It's Show Time!

2010-08-08T08:35:00.017+01:00

Hello from a un-summery Cheshire Plain. It's a bumper one this time around! This episode I share some finished objects, give you a history lesson and subject you all to my ramblings and reminicences on livestock.

On the needles/wheel: I've finished the Manos del Uruguay Clapotis in time for the Clap-o-tea party at UK Knit Camp. I've also taught myself how to navajo ply on the singles I spun from a hank of unidentified fibre (possibly BFL and tencel) I bought from DT Crafts at Wonderwool Wales. No photos here, I'm afraid, but details on Ravelry for the Clapotis and the handspun. I'm also having a blast spinning some Muppet batts from EverImprovingMe. Gorgeous!!!

Something I really like: Open Country on BBC Radio 4, particularly using the iPlayer. The Fair Isle Kntting programme is here.

Upcoming Events: UK Knit Camp, 9th-13th August and UK Ravelry Weekend, 13th-14th August, Stirling, Scotland; I Knit Weekender, 10th-11th September, London; Fibre Flurry, 30th October, King's Norton, Birmingham.

The bulk of this episode is taken up with information about The Oxfordshire County and Thame Show. It's something I attended every year as a child and teenager, but haven't been sinc ei went into teachign in the mid-90s. So, ready for the photo fest that is my record of Thame Show? OK, don't say I didn't warn you. There's a lot of photos. Seriously. Heaps.

First up, the patchwork class.

The red certificate is for First prize, blue is Second, yellow is Third, white is Very Highly Commended. The first prize winner in the patchwork is the first piece completed by the entrant.

Then it's the fibre classes. First knitting...

... then baby and toddler knitting...

... then the single entry in the Crochet class.

Then I wondered down the other end of the marquee to the vegetables.

Later I went into the rabbit tent....

... the pigeons....

... and the caged birds.

Onto the larger animals. This class appears to be for a South Devon bull, heifer and calf.

Inside the tent were some beautiful livestock, including this Hereford heifer...

and some Holsteins.

Outside you can see some Jacob sheep in the pens on the left.

Lookee! A livestock Judge, In a Bowler hat!

A shot from the sheep judging ring.

A Southdown with a fleecy face.

Beautiful Alpaca!

One of my favourite parts was the Sheep Show. Here's the lorry, with all nine sheep on show.

Close up shots...

Craig shearing his first ever Scottish Blackface.

Some of the Sheep show participants. First Lenny the Lincoln Longwool...

...the Rupert the Rouge De L'Ouest from France...

... and finally Dougal the Scottish Blackface.

Episode 13: Gettin' Woolly With It

2010-07-25T09:42:00.007+01:00

Hello from a chilled Cheshire Plain - it's the summer holidays! Yayyy! In this episode I talk hat design, upcoming events and confess to my inner beardie.

What's on the needles: No real progress on anything currently on the needles, but I have designed and made my own hat!

Review: Woolly Wormhead's hat design course at Fibre & Clay. Woolly has blogged about it here. If you get a chance to do one of her workshops, grab it!

Upcoming Events: Knit Nation, 29th-31st July, London; UK Knit Camp, 9th-13th August and UK Ravelry Weekend, 13th-14th August, Stirling, Scotland; I Knit Weekender, 10th-11th September, London; Fibre Flurry, 30th October, King's Norton, Birmingham.

Something I Really Like: Folk music and, in particular, A Folk Song A Day.

Links: Woolly Wormhead; Fibre & Clay; Cyril Tawney; Eliza Carthy; Jim Moray; Seth Lakeman; Jim Causley; Karine Polwart; Bellowhead; Jon Boden

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 12: Has anyone seen my mojo?

2010-07-03T16:35:00.010+01:00

Hello from a little piece of green space overlooking the Weaver Navigation Canal. In this episode I muse on my missing mojo, announce a winner and ponder on tails as an essential accessory.

UFO contest: Thanks to all those who entered, but nobody guessed the correct UFO, which was in fact my Birthday Pinwheel Sweater:

Details are here. Although no-one correctly identified it, I thought I would still have a draw, so the random number generator picked out a winner. Was it you?

You can choose from either of the Abstract Cat yarns I mentioned in an earlier episode, a lovely pint silk laceweight from Knitwitches or some lovely Lei from Posh Yarn

Abstract Cat Retro:

Abstract Cat Jolly:

Knitwitches 100% Pure Silk Laceweight:

Posh Yarn Lei in Charming:

or Posh Yarn Lei in an unspecified colourway I bought at Wonderwool Wales in 2008:

Thanks to all who entered!

What's on my needles: a Featherweight cardigan in Posh Yarn, a Clapotis in Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend and a Stripy Noro Messenger Bag. Fancy joining in the Fibre & CLay knit-a-long for this bag? We're already international, so feel free! The pattern can be downloaded from here.

And finally.... what else would you see at the V&A than this...

Random!

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. We have a Ravelry group here, so come on over to chat. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 10: Wonderwool Wales

2010-05-04T21:09:00.007+01:00

Hello from a sunny yet cold Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk about the wanderer returning, wander with a wonderful friend and wonder at Wonderwool Wales.

What's on my needles, hooks and wheel: Not much knitting or crochet in the last fortnight. Work's been busy and any spare fibre moment has been spent at my wheel. I've spun about 60g of merino tops bought at Wonderwool Wales last year into an as yet unspecified 2-ply yarn. Lumpy in places, but well balanced (like me, perhaps?)

Over the Bank Holiday weekend I did finish the last of the NYOBE Round 5 squares.

Review: Wonderwool Wales. A brilliant time, with a fairly restrained amount of shopping I feel...

Believe me, I could have bought an awful lot more! I mention pretty much everything in the podcast and link to it below, but when I looked at the photo I realised I didn't mention the glorious dyed oatmeal BFL from The Thylacine. Bad podcaster!

Want to go? Next year's dates are Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April 2011.

Links:
Knitwitches
Sheepfold
DT Crafts & Design
Sparkleduck
The Threshing Barn
Black Mountain Alpacas

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

There's now a Ravelry group for the podcast, which can be found here.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

She's back!

2010-04-19T17:55:00.000+01:00

I can't actually believe it, but Lilly is home - filthy, ravenous and cross, but home! I decided on a last ditch attempt this morning by ringing around the local vets and lo and behold my own vets thought they had a cat brought in yesterday that matched her description. I hot-tailed it there after work and it is indeed my Lil, found nearly a mile away. She's lost her last canine tooth and had virtually eaten the surgery out of house and home, including trying to swipe the vet's sarnies at lunchtime. "She's feisty, that one," was the last comment made by the nurse. No kidding!

Episode 9: Silence

2010-04-19T05:30:00.004+01:00

Hello from an eerily silent Cheshire Plain. In this episode I talk about the lack of background noise, urge people to exercise their democratic responsibility and admit to a guilty change of allegiance (oh fickle creature!).

On my needles and hooks: Mainly blanket squares, either from the Schuyler Blanket...

or for NYOBE blocks.

Review: Jamie Possum Paints DK

Something I really like: Matt Smith in Doctor Who!

Forthcoming events: the General Election on 6th May - make sure you are registered to vote here; Wonderwool Wales on 24th & 25th April 2010 at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys.

Episode 8: Make, Do and Knit

2010-04-01T16:58:00.011+01:00

Hello from the Plain! This episode I celebrate my own making and doing and talk about the recent Make. Do and Knit event from Liverpool.

On my needles, hooks and spindle: I finished seaming the stripy sweater...

and the missing bear...

I finished crocheting blocks for NYOBE Round 5:

and I finished spinning the Shetland Top and then plied it:

Make, Do and Knit, Liverpool

A lovely relaxed atmosphere at the show, from the Blue Coat School at Liverpool (exterior and interior shots of the chapel).

Did you spot the cobweb?

There was a chance to see the Knitted Poem, although not in all its unrolled glory!

Upcoming Events:
In reverse order:
Woolly Wormhead at Fibre & Clay, Knutsford, July 17th/18th;
Wonderwool Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys, April 24th & 25th
Dr Who!!!! BBC1, 6.20pm, Saturday 3rd April

Links:
Electric Sheep;
CogKNITive Podcast;
Mother Bear Project;
Purlesque;
Poetry Society;
Kraft Koala;
Babylonglegs;
Fyberspates;
Natural Dye Studio;
Jamie Possum ;
Just Call Me Ruby.

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

There's now a Ravelry group for the podcast, which can be found here. Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 7: Indie Girl

2010-03-20T10:35:00.001Z

Hello from a damp but spring-like Cheshire Plain! In this episode I talk about slumping, indie dyers, Yarn Forward magazine and blow my chance of being an extra in Larkrise to Candleford.

What's on my needles: The stripy jumper is nearly done, just some seaming to go!

Review: The Friday Night Knitting Club: Knit 2 by Kate Jacobs

Something I really like:Fibre and Clay in Knutsford.

Links:
Abstract Cat Crafts
lollipop.yarn and also at My LYS
The Sanguine Gryphon
A Verb For Keeping Warm
Pigeonroof Studios
Freckle Face Fibers

There's now a Ravelry group for the podcast, which can be found here. Don't forget the Liverpool Make, Do and Knit next weekend, 27th and 28th March. I'll be there on Saturday, please say hello if you see me!

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment here or at http://www.yarnsfromtheplain.podbean.com/, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 5: Citius, Altius Fortius

2010-02-20T12:39:00.002Z

Hello from an almost spring-like Cheshire Plain! Today I talk about the Ravelympics and the Knitting Olympics, review my first full mitten pattern and squee over 9 foot of striped novelty yarn:

On the Hooks and Needles: For the Ravleympics I've been working on the Chocolate Stripe tunic/dress from Knitting Noro by Jane Ellison...

... and my Poshman Mittens, David Schulz's Northman Mittens in two colours of Posh Yarn Emily.

I've also been producing 12x12 inch squares for the fifth round of NYOBE (Not Your Ordinary Block Exchange), but I have no photos yet as most aren't finished, and produced these two squares for a Schuyler Blanket in memory of Juan.

Review: Northman Mittens by David Schulz of Southern Cross Fibre

Something I really like: Independent hand-dyd yarns. What makes your heart sing? Let me know!

Links:
Life as a Nuurdy Girl podcast

Schuyler Blanket Project (Ravelry group and webpage)

Woolly Thoughts
Posh Yarn
The Knitting Goddess

Krafty Koala

Episode 4: Scrum!

2010-02-06T14:04:00.008Z

Hello from a sunny Cheshire! In this episode I talk about the danger of discounts, hopes for Spring and how 70,000 people can make the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

On the Hooks and Needles: Sparkly Monkeys are done! Hurrah!! I've also completed three blocks for my Shuyler Blanket and cast on a new pair of socks (no photos yet).

Something I really like: RBS Six Nations Rugby!

Links:
NYOBE

The Fancy Yarn Specialists (can't find a Web link, maybe the sign said "Fancy Yarn Co., they do offer a mail order service 01944 711616)
CogKNITive Podcast
The Black Sheep
Schuyler Blanket Project (Ravelry group and webpage).
Posh Yarn

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.
Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau (Land of My Fathers)

Feel free to leave a comment, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 3: Parcels parcels!

2010-01-23T18:49:00.009Z

Hello from the grey and somewhat dreary Cheshire Plain here in the North-West of England. In this episode I talk about feeling better, splitting yarn and introduce you to the Wrong Bongs.

On the Hooks and Needles: Squares for three Shuyler Blankets (details here)...

... and a knitted bear (currently MIA!).

Review: Rowan 47

Something I really like: Parcels!

Links:
Electric Sheep
CogKNITive Podcast
Schuyler Blanket Project (Ravelry group and webpage).
Mother Bear Project
Posh Yarn
The Knitting Goddess
Socktopus

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 2: Baby, It's cold out there!

2010-01-14T06:01:00.001Z

Uploaded 9th January 2010

Hello from the frost-bitten Cheshire Plain here in the North-West of England! In this episode I talk about snow, labyrinthitis and get cross with the cat.

On the Needles: I talk about the Sparkly Monkeys, which now have a pair of legs, consider the negative progress made with the Sock Yarn Blanket, ponder the fun that can be had with Scarf Journeys (details here and here) and Traveling Scarves (mine is here, although full photos are not yet up as it's not quite fully finished - oops!), and admire the strength and love involved in making squares for the Schuyler Blanket Project (Ravelry group and webpage).

Review: Regia X-mas, a 4 ply wool, nylon and metallic thread blend sold in 100g balls and six festive colours.

Something I really like: My new Nespresso coffee machine!

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic

Episode 1

2010-01-14T05:51:00.000Z

Uploaded 29th December 2009

Hello and welcome to the first episode in a new podcast for knitters, crocheters and anyone who loves playing with yarn.

What's on my needles: I've just cast on the Sparkly Red Monkeys (click here for Ravelry notes) and I'm also working on the Sock Yarn Blanket (details here).

Something I really like: David Tennant in Doctor Who!

Music: Rondopolska by Barry Philips, from the album Tråd, available from Magnatune.

Feel free to leave a comment, or email me at yarnsfromtheplain@googlemail.com. You can find me on Ravelry as talesfromtheplain.

Nic