Vickie Howell's Blog: Vickie Howell's Website, page 22
March 20, 2020
Support Your Local Yarn & Craft Stores: Shop These Places Online
Support Your Local Yarn & Craft Stores
Due the COVID-19 pandemic, our beloved yarn, fabric and craft stores are being forced to shut their doors, threatening the survival of these small businesses. You can help, though. Through a simple, online purchase your dollars can provide a piece the revenue your local shop needs to stay afloat long enough to open their doors once we’re passed this crisis.
This post is a living list of shops that offer online shopping. Please give them a look and support what you can.
Be well, Community!
xo,
Vickie
YarnYAY!, founder
Want to add your shop info to our list? See info here.
Argyle Yarn Shop in Brooklyn
Argyle Yarn Shop in Brooklyn is a local, independent, family-owned small business with a great website. Argyle has become a haven, a community center, and an inspiration to many of us and we look forward to serving our community, far and wide.
Currently, we are offering free shipping on orders over $75, and $5 for anything under. We are offering in-store pick up for orders placed on our website, and are happy to give email color consultations.
The Curious Crafter
We are in St. Louis, MO. At our shop, we sell yarn, tools, and supplies for knitters, crocheters, and other curious crafters! We have a focus on indie and local yarn dyers, and also carry many familiar yarn brands.
We are offering free shipping for orders over $25 with code FREESHIP25.
Fangirl Hand Dyed Yarn
Fangirl Hand Dyed Yarn is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I sell sock/fingering weight yarn and silk mohair lace yarn; plenty of it dyed and ready to ship to you. Sport, DK, and select small skeins of silk mohair are on sale.
Four Purls Yarn Shop
Four Purls Yarn Shop — Central Florida’s Largest Yarn Shop
Central Florida’s Largest Yarn Shop with over 2,800 square feet of fiber fabulousness! Four Purls is a family-owned yarn shop named in honor of our four children A.K.A. our four purls. Whether fiber arts is your hobby or your passion, you’ll find something in our inventory of high-quality knitting & crochet yarns (including indie dyed favorites including Emma’s Yarn, Baah, Hedgehog, Spun Right Round, Dream in Color, Malabrigo and many more), needles & hooks, notions, books & patterns.
While the shop is closed we are filling online orders, offering curbside pick-up and FaceTime shopping appointments. Use the code YAYVICKIE for free shipping in the US.
The Kentucky Maker Co.
The KMCO is located in Versailles, KY. Our mission is to always be crafting awesomeness! We carry yarn, fabric, tea, beautiful things from local makers and have tons of classes. With social distancing, we have added a slew of virtual classes too. You can register for a class, pick up a gift card or stock that stash all while sipping some lovely tea.
The Sated Sheep
The Sated Sheep is located west of Austin in the beautiful little town of Dripping Springs, Texas
We have primarily natural fiber yarns and accessories, including Nonohana, Atenti and Baggu bags, and a screaming large collection of notions and gifts.
“Pandemic Specials” include free shipping nationwide with a $40 purchase, free shipping on any purchase in Texas, personal shopping, and a bi-monthly yarn special featured on the home page of our website. We love you!
Sheep Thrills Yarn Shop
Sheep Thrills is a one-stop-shop for all your knitting, crocheting, weaving and felting supplies. Located in Lauderhill, Florida, we have a large selection of yarns, needles, and rigid heddle looms which are available 24/7 in our online shop.
We are offering the following: On-line shopping 24/7, curbside pick-up, Pandemic Project Kits – we are putting together some of our most popular projects in kit form and offering a 20% discount. Thank you so much for finding ways to support us during these difficult times.
Wildfiber Studio
Wildfiber Studio is Santa Monica’s premier yarn shop and craft studio. Find your favorite knitting and crochet supplies in our friendly environment. Find indie dyers, and favorite brands like Blue Sky Fibers, Cascade, Shibui, Juniper Moon, Plystre bags and so much more.
We are offering free shipping for orders of $75 or more and flat $5 shipping for all others. Also, virtual shopping when arranged in advance.
The Yarn Shop at Alma Park
Rose started her yarn store on her alpaca farm in 2004 in a shed. Now over 2,000 sq ft of space, we’ve become a true haven for knitters/crocheters and spinners alike. Located in Jobstown (Burlington County) NJ, we carry all the major brands such as Malabrigo, Berroco, Plymouth, Chiao Goo, Louet Wheels, Brother Carders etc. The store showcases “Indy Dyed Yarn by Rose“ with over 1,000 hand-dyed skeins in stock at all times.
We’re offering Free US shipping over $50 and a large selection of sale items on the website under Yarn—> CLEARANCE.
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March 16, 2020
Five Fiber Crafts for Kids, Teens, and Beyond!
Five Fiber Crafts for Kids, Teens, and Beyond!
Hey, fellow parents, grandparents, and care-takers! Suddenly found yourselves at home with your mini-mes, at least for the time being? Whether you and yours are just hanging-out for Spring Break or sheltering in place due to COVID-19, there’s no better time than now to keep our hands busy. I’ve got you!
Here are five fiber crafts for kids, teens, and beyond. Wishing you at least a few stress-reduced moments while your kids are making projects, instead of making you crazy. #kiddingnotkidding.
1. Finger Knit Twister Scarf
This project has been a longtime favorite in our family. I originally created a version of this for Craftzine, back when my now 20-year-old was still in elementary school, then recreated the version you see here for my 2015 book, Finger Knitting Fun. The Twister Scarf is a great craft for a range of ages and is also a perfect use for those yarn scraps! (Recommended age: 5 and up.)
2. Wee Woven Wall Hanging
No loom needed here! This project is made with a paper straw and some washi (or masking) tape to keep strands taught while your kiddo gets weaving! (Recommended age: 7 and up.)
3. Mason Jar Twine Vases
From gluing strands to knitting a cozy, twine can be a great material for all levels of crafter to try. Teamed-up with a jar from the pantry, and some fresh flowers, this project will brighten up any space. (Recommended age: 3 and up, with adult help.)
4. Sari Scrap (or any yarn) Bangles
A bangle blank (or glued strip of cardboard) will live its best bracelet life with some colorful yarn crocheted over it! (Recommended age: 8 and up.) For crochet help, check out my YouTube channel’s “Get Schooled: Crochet” playlist.
5. Macramé Charger Cord
Add a little flair to your phone charger with some cotton yarn or embroidery floss and a simple macrame stitch. (Recommended age: 10 and up.)
New in the YarnYAY! Shop: Tween-and-Above-Friendly DIY Kits!
SHOP: Lucet Knit Rope Trivet Kit
SHOP: Lucet Knit Rope Necklace Kit
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March 9, 2020
Washcloth Stitches: 4 Great Knit & Crochet Washcloth Ideas
Washcloth Stitches
This week on Ask Me Monday I show how to knit and crochet 4 great stitches for handmaking washcloths. What makes them great washcloth stitches? I consider a few things when designing a washcloth: texture (for exfoliation), row variations (for interest), and drape (so the piece will feel nice against one’s skin). Give the episode watch, then use the instructions below to take a few of my favorite washcloth stitches for a spin!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Washcloth Stitches: KNIT
Double Moss Stitch
CO a multiople of 4.
Rows 1-2: K2, *p2, k2; rep from * to last 2 sts, k2.
Rows 3-4: K2, *k2, p2; rep from * to last 2 sts, k2.
Repeat Rows 1-4 for pattern stitch.
Lace Columns
CO multiple if 4 + 3.
Row 1: K3, *k1, p3; rep from * to last 4 sts, k4.
Row 2 (and all WS rows): K3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
Row 3: Same as Row 5.
Row 5: K5, *k1, yo, s2kp, yo; rep. from * to last 6 sts, k6.
Row 6: K3, p to last 3 sts, k3.
Repeat Rows 1-6 for pattern stitch.
Washcloth Stitches: CROCHET
Subtle Bobble Stripes
SPECIAL STITCH: MB (Make Bobble)
*Yarn over, insert hook in stitch and pull through a loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops; working into the same st, rep from * three more times, yarn over and pull through all loops on hook.
Ch a multiple of 4 + 3.
Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each ch to end. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), dc in each st to end. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc in each st to end. Turn.
Rows 4-5: Same as Rows 2-3.
Row 6: Ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, *MB in next st, dc in next 3 sts; repeat from * to end. Turn.
Repeat Rows 2-6 for pattern stitch.
Basket Weave
Ch multiple of 4 + 2.
Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook, and in every ch to end. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), dc in next st, *BPdc in next 2 sts, FPdc in next 2 sts; rep from * to last 2 sts, dc in last 2 sts. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 3, dc in next st, *FPdc in next 2 sts, BPdc in next 2 sts; rep from * to last 2 sts, dc in last 2 sts. Turn.
Repeat Rows 2-3 for pattern stitch.
Washcloth Stitches: Put Your Skills to Work!
Ready to make some beautiful washcloths? Check out the March YarnYAY! box which included SIX patterns for knit and crochet washcloths, plus Blue Sky Fibers Organic Cotton Pattern and more. Get your washcloth kit here.
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March 3, 2020
YarnYAY! March Goodies
It’s that time of the month when I get to reveal the goodies I’ve hand-picked for YarnYAY! subscribers. In YarnYAY! March, we’re springing into warmer weather with an organic cotton yarn and treating ourselves to some lovely products from companies founded and ran by a few fantastic women. Here’s what to expect in this month’s YarnYAY! packages!
The YarnYAY! March Box includes:
Printed Organic Cotton | Blue Sky FIbers
Blue Sky Fibers Printed Organic Cotton Worsted is a 100% certified organic cotton yarn with a cool, textured color design. The effect is created using a blend of an ink press and the artisan hand; this unique printing process creates a one of a kind hank. Subscribers will receive one hank in one of the line’s printed colors.
BSF is a woman-owned, U.S.-based company founded by Linda Niemeyer.
Spa Worthy Washcloths Patterns | by Vickie Howell
This month we’re offering you SIX different Spa Worthy Washcloth patterns, giving stitchers the choice between knit and crochet, lacy or textural, simple or more complex projects. Pair a washcloth set with a bar of organic soap, and you’ve got a beautiful gift for host, mom, teacher, or yourself!
Spa-Worthy Washcloths (3 knit patterns)
Spa-Worthy Washcloths (3 crochet patterns)
Oh Snap Bag + mini Dot Journal | Namaste
This mesh bag lets you see your project, and keep yarn snapped securely while stitching on-the-go. The mini-dot journal is great for quickie notes, chart ideas, and other knit-worthy doodles.
Namaste is a family-founded company now owned by Laura Zander, Products are designed in Nevada and consciously produced in China.
Anywhere Balm | Love + Leche
This little balm is the perfect size to keep in your notions bags as a remedy to those yarn-snagging, dry cuticles and chapped hands!
Love + Leche is a woman-owned, New Mexico-based business founded by Daven Lee.
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March 2, 2020
Log Cabin Knit Squares
Log Cabin Knit SquaresOn this week’s episode of Ask Me Monday, I discuss the foundation of creating modular pieces by showing how to create Log Cabin knit squares. Watch the tutorial, then play around with the practice swatch below!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured product: Knitter’s Pride Ginger Double Pointed Needle Set & Smart Stix DPNs
Log Cabin Knit Square: Swatch it!
MATERIALS
Worsted Weight Yarn in Colors A, B, C & D (I used Ewe Ewe Yarns Wooly Worsted)
Knitter’s Pride Ginger DPNs (I love my full set!)
DIRECTIONS
BLOCK 1:
Using Color A CO 5 sts.
Rows 1-18: Knit.
BO on RS, leaving last st on the needle.
BLOCK 2:
With RS facing, rotate 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color B, PU 10 sts along the long edge of BLOCK 1.– 11 sts.
Row 1 (WS): K to last 2 sts, k2tog (this will get rid of the Color A st.)
Rows 2-8: Knit.
BO on RS, leaving the last stitch on the needle.
BLOCK 3:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With color C, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 2, and 5 sts along CO edge of BLOCK 1. — 11 sts.
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 4:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color B, PU 5 sts along the CO edge of BLOCK 3 and 10 sts along the long edge of Box 1 — 16 sts
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 5:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color D, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 4, 5 sts along the BO edge of BLOCK 1, and 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 2. — 16 sts
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 6:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color A, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 5, 10 sts along the BO edge of BLOCK 2, and 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 3. — 21 sts.
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BO last remaining st.
FINISHING
Weave in ends. Block piece, if necessary.
Wärme Log Cabin Knit Square Mitts: Knit Them!
Put your skills to work by making the Warme Mitts by Ewe Ewe Yarn’s Heather Walpole from my book, The Knit Vibe, available in our YarnYAY! shop, on Amazon or wherever you get your books!
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February 25, 2020
Can I Take Knitting Needles on an Airplane?
Can I Take Knitting Needles on an Airplane?
(And other, traveling-while-knitting scoop.)
When I’m on the road to shoot a video segment, tour for a book, or teach at a convention one of the things I’m most frequently asked is if I was able to take my knitting or crochet tools on the plane with me. On this week’s episode of Ask Me Monday, I talk travel tips for us stitchers!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Pro Tip: Travel with an interchangeable set. That way if your find that your gauge is off while traveling, or if you gt inspired by a new project, you won’t have to go out and purchase more needles. You’ll be prepared for anything the knittign gods through at you! My favorite needles to take on-the-go is the Knitter’s Pride Ginger Deluxe Interchangable set.
Q: Can I take crochet hooks on an airplane?
YES! No matter if you choose to work with a wooden hook such as Knitter’s Pride Gingers, a metal hook with a rubberized handle like Knitter’s Pride Waves, or the straight-up aluminum Knitter’s Pride Zing! hooks, crocheters, you are free to board!
Q: Can I take knitting needles on an airplane?
A: The short answer is yes. I actually got on a plane with size 25mm (you know, the ones like Knitter’s Pride Jumbo Birch, which resemble vampire stakes) needles shortly after 9/11 without incident. Since I’ve traveled countless times around the U.S., Canada, and England with every make and model (straights, circs, dpns, metal, bamboo, etc.) of needle imaginable. Knitters, we are (*mostly) good to go!
* Please note that there are some needle restrictions on certain international flights. If you’re traveling abroad, I suggest calling the respective airline ahead of time.
Q: Can I take scissors on an airplane?
A: This is the one I personally have found the most surprising. The answer is, scissors, they make the cut! And I’m not just talking about those itty-bitty embroidery scissors we stitchers usually keep on hand. Nope, regular ol’ scissors, within reason, are a go. On a recent domestic trip to a convention, I accidentally brought a pair of full-on fabric scissors in my carry-on bag. I thought for sure, I was going to have to say goodbye to that $50 tool. However, although I was pulled aside and my bag searched, the TSA officer allowed me to keep my pair since the blades met the requirement of being under 4″ from the pivot point. Who knew?
If traveling with scissors makes you nervous, though, a great alternative for minor on-board snipping is the Knitter’s Pride Yarn Cutter. You can wear it on a chain as a necklace, or throw it in a notions bag without the worry of being stopped.
So there you have it, three traveling crafter questions answered! Please note though, that TSA rules do change. I recommend checking out their website for definitive answers to your project bag packing questions.
Safe travels!
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February 19, 2020
Join Me at Stitches West!
Stitches West
Will you be at Stitches West in Santa Clara, CA this weekend? Be sure to stop by and say “hi”! My classes are all sold out but no worries, there are a few other FREE events you can check out. Hope to see you there!
Friday the 20th, 1pm: Crystal Stitch Markers/ Wine Charms with Vickie Howell, The Knit Vibe , Marketplace Playground
Friday the 20th, 2pm: The Knit Vibe book signing, Jimmy Beans Wool’s booth
Friday the 20th, 5pm: YarnYAY! Casual Meet-up, Hyatt Regency Hotel Bar
Saturday the 21st, 6pm: Teacher’s Dinner
Sunday the 22nd, 12:30pm: The Knit Vibe book signing, Imagiknits booth
Sunday the 22nd, 1:30pm: Crystal Stitch Markers/ Wine Charms with Vickie Howell, The Knit Vibe , Marketplace Playground
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February 17, 2020
Crochet Seed Stitch
Crochet Seed Stitch
This week on Ask Me Monday I show two ways to crochet half-double crochet Seed Stitch: in-the-round, and worked flat. This stitch is a great choice for home decor items, blankets, or mittens like those featured in the February YarnYAY! subscription box.
Give the episode a watch, then practice with the swatches below. Oh, and don’t forget to bookmark this tutorial for future reference!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured Products: Knitter’s Pride Waves Crochet Hooks
Crochet Seed Stitch: Practice Swatches
MATERIALS
Worsted weight yarn
Size US 8/5mm Knitter’s Pride Waves crochet hook
DIRECTIONS
Crochet Seed Stitch: Swatch #1 Flat
Ch 20.
Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd ch from hook, and every ch to end. — 18 sts.
Rows 2-3: *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * to end.
Rep Rows 2-3 until piece measures 4″/10 cm from beg edge.
Fasten off.
Crochet Seed Stitch: Swatch #2 In-the-Round
Ch 20. Join rnd with a sl st in beg-ch, taking care not to twist.
Rnd 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every ch around. — 20 sts
Rnd 2: Ch 2 (counts as FPhdc), *BPhdc, FPhdc; rep from * to last st, BPhdc in last st; join rnd with a sl st in the BACK loop of beg-ch (this will push the stitch forward).
Rnd 3: Ch 2 (counts as BPhdc), *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * to last st, FPhdc in last st; join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg-ch.
Rep Rows 2-3, four times more.
Last Rnd: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every ch around.
Fasten off.
Crochet Seed Stitch: Put Your Skills to Work
Make the crochet version of the Convertible Mitts from February’s YarnYAY! Subscribe now!
Convertible Mitts by Vickie Howell for YarnYAY! (February ’20 box)
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February 13, 2020
DIY Lucet Knit Trivets
DIY Lucet Knit Trivets
Lean into that Scandi-style by using a Viking-days tool to make a modern-looking lucet knit trivet as a gift or for your home. Here’s how!
MATERIALS
YarnYAY! Lucet Knit Trivet Kit
OR
Lucet (aka knitting fork)
Approx 45′, ¼” Cotton Rope
Cotton String
Sharp Tapestry Needle
OPTIONAL: Vegan Leather Decorative Tab and either Rivet or Sewing Supplies
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Approx. 6 ½” Circle
DIRECTIONS
Use Method #2 in this video to knit the cord for this project.
Leaving an 8″/20 cm tail and using the lucet and rope, knit a 65″/165 cm cord. Fasten off.
Beginning from center-out, roll cord into a spiral formation.
Using needle and string, whip stitch spiral layers together to tail; fold over tail to create loop, whip stitch around to secure. Tie off, weave in ends and trim.
OPTIONAL: Fold vinyl tab around bottom of loop. Machine, or hand-sew, or use a rivet to shut.
P.S. A shout-out to Sticker Mule for creating the cute, little YarnYAY! stickers we’re now using on our packages. That little pop of aqua, really helps our mailers feel special! Next up: I’m thinking I may need to start declaring my YAY! for the yarn via vinyl decals for car windows!
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February 10, 2020
Cup O’ Love Coffee Cup Cozy
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured Products: Knitter’s Pride Waves Crochet Hooks
Heart Coffee Cozy
MATERIALS
DK-weight (double-stranded) or Aran-weight (single-stranded) yarn, in MC and CC
Knitter’s Pride US H/5 mm Waves crochet hook
Tapestry needle
GAUGE
3.25 sts per inch in FPhdc, BPhdc Rib
DIRECTIONS
Cozy:
Ch 28, join rnd with a sl st in beg-ch.
Rnd 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every st around. — 28 sts
Rnd 2: Ch 2, *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg-ch.
Repeat Rnd 2 until piece measures 3 1/2″ from edge.
Fasten off.
Heart applique:
Using the magic circle method, work the following stitches in the center circle:
Rnd 1: Ch 3, 3 tr, 3 dc, tr, 3 dc, 3 tr, ch 3; join rnd with a sl st in center ring.
Rnd 2: 2 sc into the side of chains, 3 sc next st, sc in next 5 sts, hdc in next st (point of heart), sc in next 5 sts, 3 sc in next st, 2 sc into the side of chains; join rnd with a sl st in base of beginning.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming.
FINISHING
Using the tail and tapestry needle, sew heart applique onto the front of cozy.
Weave in ends.
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