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Knitter’s T-Shirt Hack | Update a Tee with Knit Rib Stitch

Knitter’s T-Shirt Hack

We all have them — shapeless t-shirts supporting a company event or kid’s activity. Welp, how about we turn that plain-shirt-frown upside down? Here’s a knitter’s hack, turning that baggy tee into a cute, cropped vest!

MATERIALS

Unfitted T-shirt

Yarn of choice (I used a double strand of this and this)

Corresponding sized, 32″ long circular needle (I used an 8/5mm)

Embroidery floss & needle

Scissors

Ruler

Chalk or disappearing ink pen

SPECIAL STITCHES
K1tbl = Knit 1 stitch, throug the back loop.

K2tbl = Knit each of the next 2 stitches through the back loop.

 

HOW-TO

Fold t-shirt in half, lengthwise. Using chalk or a pen and a ruler as a guide, draw a line along the bottom portion of shirt at the desired finished length, minus 3″.
Note: Be sure to check the back of the shirt to ensure you’re not unintentionally cutting away any text or graphics.

Pro Tip: Use a sweater or vest from your closet as a goal-length guide for your hacked tee!

Cut bottom of shirt, along drawn line and neck and sleeves off along their respective seams.Mark every 1/4″ around the perimeters of the raw edges of the neck, sleeves, and bottom.

Using embroidery floss, needle, and markings as a guide, Blanket Stitch around all raw perimeters.

Knit Bands
BOTTOM BAND: Using yarn and circular knitting needle, pick out a loop under every bar created by Blanket Stitch. Ideally, there’ll be a multiple of 4, but you can fake it ’til you make it on the first round of knitting. Round 1: *K2tbl, p2; rep from * around. (If you run short or extra, either work 2 stitches together at the end, or increase by a stitch or 2 until you have a multiple of 4)

Repeat Rnd 1 until Bottom Band measures 3″ (or desired length)

Bind off in pattern stitch.

NECK & ARM BANDS
Pick up an even number of stitches (or fudge it as listed above).

Round 1: *K1tbl, p1; rep from * around.

Repeat Rnd 1 until Bottom Band measures 1″ /2.5 cm (or desired length)

Bind off in pattern stitch.

Weave in ends.

That’s all there is to it!

Psst…this same concept works with crochet, too. Simply swap out the knit ribbing with FPhdc, BPhdc rib stitch!

The post Knitter’s T-Shirt Hack | Update a Tee with Knit Rib Stitch appeared first on Vickie Howell.

Under 2-Hour Cowls | Quick Gifts

This is a re-run post from the archives. Enjoy! xx, VHUnder 2-Hour Cowls 

This week on Ask Me Monday we talk quick gifts to knit and crochet. Like, really quick. I show how to make both knit and crochet Under 2-Hour Cowls. In this episode, you’ll learn how stitch height affects the speed of completion of a project. We cover dropped knit stitches, double-triple crochet stitches and more! Watch below, then get the free patterns below. Enjoy!



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!

Under 2-Hour Cowls: Patterns

MATERIALS

Approx 40 yds, each super-bulky yarn (6 weight) in colors: A & B

Knitter’s Pride Size US 17/2 mm, 16″-24″ Ginger Circular Needle (KNIT VERSION ONLY)

Knitter’s Pride Size 12 mm Ginger Crochet Hook (CROCHET VERSION ONLY)

Knitter’s Pride Wool Needle

 

Under 2-Hour Knit Cowl

FINISHED SIZE

Approx 10″/25 cm tall x  28″/71 cm circumference

GAUGE

Approx 3 sts x 7 rnds = 4″/10 cm in Dropped Stitch pattern (Rnds 7-8)

DIRECTIONS

With A, CO 36 sts. Join rnd, taking care not to twist.

Rnds 1-4: *K1, p1; rep from * around.

Rnd 5: Knit.

Rnd 6: Purl.

Rnd 7: *K1 wrapping yarn around needle THREE times; rep from * around.

Rnd 8: *Purl, dropping extra wraps; rep from * around.

Rnd 9: Knit.

Rnd 10: Purl.

Cut A; join B.

Rnds 11-14: With B, rep Rnds 5-8.

Cut B; rejoin A.

Rnd 15-16: Rep Rnds 9-10.

Rnds 17-20: *K1, p1; rep from * around.

BO in established rib stitch.

Weave in ends.

Want tips on weaving in ends on bulky projects? Watch this Vic’s Tips segment from The Knit Show

 

Under 1-Hour Crochet Cowl

FINISHED SIZE

Approx 9″/23 cm tall x  32″/76 cm circumference

GAUGE

Approx 5 hdc x 3 rnds = 4″/10 cm 

Note: This pattern is written in U.S. Terms

SPECIAL STITCH

Double-triple Crochet (dtr)

YO 3 times, insert hook into next st, [YO, pull through two loops] 4 times.

DIRECTIONS

With A, ch 40. Join rnd with a sl st in first ch.

Rnd 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next ch and every ch around. Join rnd with a sl st in top of beg-ch.

Rnd 2: Ch 5 (counts as dtr), dtr in next hdc and every hdc around. Join rnd with a sl st in top of beg-ch.

Rnd 3: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next dtr and every dtr around. Join rnd with a sl st in top of beg-ch.

Cut A; join B.

Rnd 4: With B, Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next hdc and every hdc around. Join rnd with a sl st in top of beg-ch.

Rnd 5: With B, Rep Rnd 2.

Cut B; rejoin A.

Rnd 6: With A, ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in next dtr and every dtr around. Join rnd with a sl st in top of beg-ch.

Fasten off.

Weave in ends.

Want a great gift for that knitter or crocheter in your life? Try a subscription to YarnYAY!

YarnYAY! is a woman-owned, independent business that strives to support other women and indie businesses. Every month, we feature a few,

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Chunky Knit Wine Sleeve Pattern

One of my favorite memories from promoting The Knit Show was when I got to bring my friend Lisa Loeb onto an episode of Hallmark Home & Family to show how to knit chunky, knit wine sleeves for the holidays. She and I met because of knitting, so it’s always so fun when we can find a way to keep that thread going.

Unfortunately, a few years ago, the show was canceled. I still love making these cozy cuties, so I’m reposting the pattern.

Sip, sip, knit!

Chunky Knit Wine Sleeves

MATERIALS

Chunky-weight yarnSize U.S. 13 knitting needlesCable needleLarge-eyed tapestry needle2 stitch markersPiece of ribbon or trim

SIZE

To fit a standard wine bottle.

GAUGE:
10 stitches x 12 rows = 4”/10 cm in Stockinette Stitch

ABBREVIATIONS:
· CO = cast on
· K = knit
· M = marker
· P = purl
· P2tog = purl 2 stitches together
· RS = right side
· Sl = slip
· St(s) = stitch(es)
· WS = wrong side
· YO = yarn over

SPECIAL STITCH:
1. 8-st RC = Right crossing cable over 8 stitches.
2. Slip 4 stitches onto cable needle and let fall to the back; knit next 4 stitches, knit 4 stitches off of cable needle.

STEPS:
1. This project is worked flat, then seamed up the back.
2. CO 24 sts, placing a marker after the 8th and 16th sts.

BODY:
Row 1 (RS): P8, sl m, k8, sl m, p8.

Row 2: K8, sl m, k4, p4, sl m, k8.

Rows 3-8: Repeat Rows 1-2.

Row 9: P8, sl m, 8-st RC

Row 10 (WS): K8, sl m, k4, p4, sl m, k8.

Rows 11-30: Repeat Rows 1-10, twice more.

Row 31 (eyelet row): *P2, YO, p2tog; repeat from * to end.

Row 32: K8, sl m, k4, p4, sl m, k8.
*Cable portion finished; you’ll no longer need stitch markers.

CUFF:
Row 33: *K2, p2; repeat from * to end.
Rows 34-42: Repeat Row 33.

*Bind off in rib pattern, leaving long tail for seaming.

FINISHING:
1. Using tapestry needle and yarn tail, seam up side edges to create sleeve shape.
2. Weave in ends.
3. Cut a length of ribbon or trim, feed it through the eyelet rows. Slip sleeve over your favorite bevie bottle, cinch shut with a bow, and enjoy!

 

Interested in seeing the segment? Good news, it’s still up on the Hallmark Channel website! Click on the image below to watch. Happy Handmade Holidays!

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Knit Short Row Circle & Square Motif

Short Row Circle & Square Motif

It’s Day Two of my End-of-Summer re-run series in which for a whole month I share new, daily knitting or crochet stitch patterns on Instagram. Today’s swatch is a circle within a square motif. It’s created with garter short rows forming a circle, bordered by picked-up stitches knit into a square. Go, geometric!⁣

NOTE: The entire pattern was too long to post on the grams, but here it’s posted in full. 
⁣
𝙀𝙣𝙙-𝙤𝙛-𝙎𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙧 𝙎𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨, 𝘿𝙖𝙮 𝟮⁣
⁣
MATERIALS
Plymouth Yarn Select Worsted Merino Superwash, in colors: (A) Lagoon and (B) Natural⁣
⁣
Size 8/5 mm dpns⁣
⁣
 H/5mm⁣

Stitch Markers

DIRECTIONS
𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗶𝗿𝗰𝗹𝗲:⁣
With A, crochet hook, straight needles, and using the provisional cast-on method, CO 12 sts.⁣
⁣
Knit 1 row.⁣
⁣
*𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝟭 (𝗥𝗦): K11, sl 1, bring yarn in front, return sl st to LH needle, turn (sl st is wrapped), k to end on WS.⁣
⁣
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝟭 (𝗥𝗦): K8, sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn, k to end on WS.⁣
⁣
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝟯 (𝗥𝗦): K6, sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn, k to end on WS.⁣
⁣
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝟰 (𝗥𝗦): K4, sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn, k to end on WS.⁣
⁣
𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝟱 (𝗥𝗦): K2, sl1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn, k to end on WS. Rep from * 16 times to complete the circle.⁣

Carefully remove scrap yarn chain from provisional CO and place sts on a spare needle. Join CO row to final row using Purl 3-needle bind-off method.

Corners Edging:

Note: The corners “edging” is worked in four parts using a series of short rows. Each corner is formed where 2 dpns meet, and the markers denote the centers of the flat edges of the square. The entire edging is worked in rounds, but each corner is worked in rows.

*With B, and 1 dpn, using purl bumps as a guide, pick up and k 20 sts evenly (placing a stitch marker after 10 sts) over 1 quarter of the circle, rep from * for rem 3 quarters with 3 separate dpns — 80 sts

Corner 1 (dpns 1 and 2)

Note: Corner is worked on sts between 2 markers at a time.

Row 1 (RS): K to 1 st before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Row 2 (WS): K to 1 st before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 3-4: K to 2 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 5-6: K to 3 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 7-8: K to 4 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 9-10: K to 5 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 11-12: K to 6 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 13-14: K to 7 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 15-16: K to 8 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

Rows 17-18: K to 9 sts before marker; sl 1, bring yarn to front, return sl st to LH needle, turn.

One corner complete.

Corner 2

Next Row (RS): K to 1 st before next marker and rep rows 1-18. 

Cont in this manner until all 4 corners are complete. K to end of rnd (next marker).

BO as follows:
K2, insert LH needle into front legs of 2 sts on RH needle and k2tog through the back loops; *k1, insert LH needle into front legs of 2 sts on RH needle and k2tog through the back loops; rep from * until all sts are bound off.

FINISHING
Weave in ends. Heavily block piece

⁣

RECOMMENDED PROJECT:⁣
Round Peg Blanket, from my book, “Wee Garter Stitch” 

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Mini Woven Patch Class: One & Done Series

Mini Woven Patch Class: One & Done Series

I’m happy to announce my Mini Woven Patch virtual class as the first installment of my “One & Done Series“, designed to give students just a taste of a technique. These classes are a great, low-commitment way to explore new crafts and skills. Learn more and sign up for this class through my Etsy shop HERE. 

In this class, you’ll learn the basics of weaving on a mini, flat loom while making a small, woven patch. We’ll cover a few different, basic weaving stitches, as well as optional embroidery embellishments. These patches are great for decoratively repairing holes in knitwear, adorning store-bought clothing, or simply, as tiny little works of textile art.

Skill Level: Beginner

This class includes:
-One, 3″ Mini Loom, comb, and tapestry needle
-2 hours of virtual instruction
-Recording of class for reference

Additional required supplies:
– A few yards of cotton string or any DK or Sport-weight yarn that IS NOT single-ply
-2-3 colors of yarn scraps in any weight up to Aran (samples shown in DK)
-Scissors

Come hangout, and low-key craft with me — Hope to see you there!

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NEW CLASS: Toe-up, Two at-a-Time Socks!

NEW CLASS: Toe-up, Two at-a-Time Socks!

By popular demand, I’m happy to announce my latest, virtual workshop: Two at-a-Time Socks! In this 3-session class, I’ll walk you through knitting a pair of “dorm” (heavier weight) socks, from the toe-up. I’ll cover:

Calculating the number of stitches for your size sockCasting on for TWO sock toes, at the same time., using Judy’s Magic COUsing the Magic Loop method for knitting two socks at the same timeIncreasing to create toesWorking slipped stitch rib patternHow to know when it’s time to work the heelWorking the Fleegle heelDecreasing for legWorking cuffStretchy bind-off

What you’ll get:

Six hours of virtual instruction with VickieToe-up sock recipeClass recordings

Required Materials

Approx 400 yards, DK-weight, superwash merino yarn. Please have pre-wound into TWO separate balls.Size US 5/3.75 mm, 40″ circular needle –or size needed to obtain gauge2, removable stitch markersTapestry needle

Schedule

Classes will run on April 17th, April 24th & May 1. See below for morning or evening options. Sessions will take place via Zoom.

Sign up HERE.

 

 

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5 Tips for Going Live for Your Business

5 Tips for Going Live for Your Business

Here in Austin, Texas, it’s nearly time for SXSW (South by Southwest) which means droves of creative types — coming from sectors ranging from Tech and Thought Leadership to Film and Music — are descending upon our ever-evolving city. In years past, I’ve had the pleasure of being a SXSW mentor and official meet-up host, but I won’t be participating in the conference in that capacity this year. Nonetheless, I will be there with bells on, soaking up knowledge from the myriad of speakers, enjoying a few shows, and most importantly, supporting friends whose bands are performing. (Note: if you’re in the neighborhood, check out Urban Heat and Parker Woodland.) The latter brings me to why I’m writing this article.

While brainstorming potential social media assets with Parker Woodland frontwoman, Erin Walter, we delved into opportunities to fully embrace and share the music festival experience with the band’s audience, particularly through live video. This conversation reminded me of a workshop I taught in 2022 at h+h americas, focusing on the basics of ‘going live’ as a cost-effective promotional tool for businesses. In all honesty, that conference was in a completely unrelated industry to the one we locals call, “South by”, but in reality, the principle of using live video to help create meaningful connections with customers rings just as true for filmmakers promoting their latest flick or musicians building a fanship. In that vein, I’ve summarized that talk here for all of you creative types (and perhaps, especially for those who don’t necessarily identify as that, but are willing to play along in the spirit of marketing experimentation). Here are my 5 Tips for Going Live for Your Business.

#1 Get Equipped: Lights, Camera, Angle?

There are four main, equipment components to successful live streaming (aka “going live”). It’s not complicated, nor does it require a huge investment, but being equipped with the right tools is paramount to your live videos being a successful branding initiative. After all, if your followers can see and hear you from the get-go, they’re likely to just keep on scrolling. Not only does this mean that you’ve wasted your own valuable time creating the live video, but you may also inadvertently hurt the chances of those same followers clicking on your videos in the first place. Let’s avoid that. Here are the must-have gadgets for going live for your brand.

Candid Camera: For most of us, using the camera that we all carry around in our pockets is the best option for going live, either remotely or from our home bases. Smartphone cameras have evolved to an extraordinary level over the past decade, now offering the ability to shoot up to 4k (or in some cases, 8k!) resolution. In other words, the 720p-1080p level that most streaming platforms support is more than within the realm of what your iPhone or Android phone can achieve. Pro-tip: spring for the larger “Pro” version of your chosen smartphone so that you have more screen to see those live comments scrolling by during your video!

Stand & Deliver: Later, we’ll talk about the varying types of live streams, which will inform the needed stand. Universally, though, a tabletop tripod (bonus points if it’s poseable!) with a smartphone mount that’s compact enough to throw in a bag on-the-go, will do the job. For specific approaches, however, also consider getting a reliable phone mount for your car (for use while parked), and if relevant, a telescoping stand that can handle overhead/first-person perspective shots.

Let There Be Light!: If live video is your medium, then the subject of it being visible is crucial. Enter, lighting. First and foremost, there’s nothing like natural light when it comes to videography. If you have the opportunity to shoot in indirect (shade is great), light from the actual sun then the good news is that you have all of the lighting equipment you need to stream from your favorite event! If that’s not the case, though, consider investing in a Ring Light (also doubles as a stand, huzzah!) for close, single (one-person) streams, and a set-up of 2-3 LED stand lights for wide or multi-person shots.

Mic Drop: If your viewers can’t hear you, then they probably won’t learn or buy from you. They definitely won’t be able to enjoy the hard-hitting interview you just gave, or listen to a live, acoustic version of that single you just dropped! Since here we’re focusing on mobile video, I recommend keeping portable microphones like phone-compatible, Bluetooth-capable lavaliers or plug-in directional mics in your live video arsenal.

#2 Know Your Type: How & when to choose the format of your live video.

There are all types of live videos, and each can have value. Here are just a few approaches to consider when going live for your brand.

Check-in / Q&A: Connect with your audience by jumping on a live feed to check in on their progress during a collective project, create hype with some insider scoop leading up to a big event, or answer a few pre-submitted customer questions that showcase your brand’s commitment to community-building.

Reveal/Unboxing: Humans love a big (or frankly, even a small) reveal! If your company is launching a new product, or you have a new TV series in production, going live to unbox that product prototype or reveal the show poster will give your followers the benefit of experiencing your excitement with you.

How-To/Informational: Doing live tutorials or talks will feel less informal than a pre-recorded, e-course or YouTube video. Folks will feel like they’re with you while you’re explaining whatever topic fits within your brand’s mission, and with that comes less of an expectation for sleek production and perfectly smooth presentation. This approach might feel risky, but it’s authentic and that is invaluable when it comes to building (and keeping) an audience.

Interview/Conversation: Pre-planned live interviews and impromptu, informal conversations are both great ways to cross-promote with fellow artists, experts, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re having a conversation with a social activist about a hot-button topic, or interviewing an author visiting your bookstore, there’s something about seeing these moments unfold in real time, that makes us feel included. Speaking of inclusion, looping in a few viewer comments into your convo stream goes a long way!

Knowing what type of live format to choose, and when to go live is largely a trial-and-error operation. A good place to start, though, is by focusing on your audience and their needs. Step back, and think about why your audience comes to you. For fun? For inspiration? For information? For insider tips? All of the above?

Once you’ve identified what draws your audience to your brand, consider what format you’re most comfortable with. If possible, experiment with different types of live videos at various times of the day and stick with what works best; discard what doesn’t.

#3 Have a Plan: But, be willing to go with the flow.

No matter what type of live video you choose to do — scripted Q&A, ad hoc unboxing, whatever — I highly recommend having at least an idea of what you’re going to do beforehand. That said, unless it’s necessary, memorizing a speech isn’t ideal for live-stream marketing. It detracts from the in-the-moment vibe of the medium. There’s no real winning methodology here. Our brains all work differently, so ask yourself if you’re better at improvising (off a baseline idea), or if things will go smoother with a bullet-point list. Choose your own, least anxiety-inducing adventure!

Lastly, prepare for the unexpected. Live video is unpredictable, and while having a plan is crucial, remain open to changes. Embrace the imperfections, as viewers often relate to the authenticity of unscripted moments. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect; live video is about being genuine and free-flowing!

#4 Be Yourself: You Do You, Boo.

The prospect of creating live video content may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. It may help to keep in mind that your audience is there for one reason: YOU (i.e. your brand, your project, your expertise, your product). This means there’s no need to put on airs. Trust in the story you tell by simply being yourself. If you’re introspective and intellectual, your audience will be interested in your quiet observations. If you’re a natural comedian, your people will love your goofy take. If you’re a big ol’ dork who majored in theater for one year in community college and feels the need to not let that experience go to waste, your followers will humor you (there may be a reason that example was oddly specific. If you’re a hot mess, but earnest, your viewers will feel at home with you.

Know this, transparency builds loyalty. You, as the spokesperson for your brand, your product, your shop, or yourself, are the most important component of your live video.

#5 Make it Work (and Keep Working) for You: Reuse Live Content!

Real talk: the amount of hustle involved in social marketing is a behemoth. Creating live content can be daunting and feel never-ending. Consider it, however, as a valuable part of a larger body of communication rather than a disappearing act of effort. Once the live stream is over, be sure to save it to your device so you can repurpose the video later. Here are a few ways to recycle your stream:

Create a “Live” Playlist on YouTube, so these assets become a series.

Include a link to the previously recorded live broadcast in a newsletter. ICYMI (in case you missed it) prompts are highly effective in an age when we’re all inundated with so much information that we invariably miss even the stuff we’re truly interested in.

Upload the recording of your live stream from one platform onto a completely different platform. Although there will be some audience cross-over, the additional community views will make it worth it!

Going live from SXSW, or anywhere else? Tag @vickiehowell on Instagram or Facebook, so I can cheer you on from the comments section!

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YarnYAY! Quarterly: Winter Edition (The FINAL Box!)

YarnYAY! Quarterly Winter Box: Neutrals, Pastels & Pops

The FINAL YarnYAY! Quarterly Box has arrived! For this season, we put together a cozy collection of knitterly goodies that will keep you company inside while it’s freezing outside. Here’s what we have in store for you in the Winter box! Everything from the Nordic-inspired cowl and to the squishy merino/alpaca yarn to the Winter Night candle and thematic stitch markers was curated with the intent of bringing icy beauty into your hot little hands!

Owl | Quince & Co.
Squishy, lofty, plump, little Owl is made from a blend of American wool and alpaca. It’s spun and dyed in New England and can hold stitch definition and also be soft to wear, making it a wonderful choice for color work. Each box comes with 4 hanks, two main color, and two contrasting shades. You have your choice between two palettes, Neutrals, Pastels, and Pops OR Jewels Bolds, & Deeps

 

Strokker Cowl | Vickie Howell

The design for this cowl was inspired by Vickie’s recent trip to Iceland. She was struck not only by the beauty of the stranded motif yokes on the traditional, and still popular pullovers but also by the fact that handiwork, in general, seemed to be respected and revered. So much so, that imagery of it can be found on their currency!

 

Neutrals, Pastels & Pops Palette

 

Strokker, named after a legendary Icelandic geyser, is knit from the bottom up and with central colorwork, and a ribbed neckline meant to be folded over for maximized warmth.

Sherpa Notions Bag | LoveLina
Nothing says cozying up for a long winter’s knit, than a lamb-inspired wool! This bag is made with teddy-soft faux fur, generously sized to hold all of your supplies. Keep this little cutie close at hand and there’ll be no need to leave the fireside to go get your scissors, measuring tape, or other notions — it can hold them all. Furry, not burrrrrr-eee!

Winter Night Candle | Ligia’s Page
When formulating the Nordic Night fragrance oil, Ligia’s Page candlemakers’ imaginations were filled with images of snow-draped pine trees and the icy embrace of Arctic winds. This fragrance captures the essence of a wintry outdoor night, encapsulating the frosty chill with its top notes of eucalyptus and lavender. At its core, you’ll find the aromatic embrace of resinous pine, while it finds its resting place on an herbal, woody foundation of rosemary, cedar, and oakmoss. 

 

Winter Stitch Markers | Firefly Notes
Firefly Notes designed a whimsical enamel stitch marker pack with a wintery flair. Packaged in a classic vellum, illustrated envelope, you’ll get one each of a mitten, ice skate, blue jay, and snowdrop flower. Your Nordic knitting never looked so nICE!

Knitting Cords | Comma Craft Co.
The knitting world’s new favorite find is the discovery of silicone tubing for use as stitch holders. Simply slide the hollow form over the tip of your needle to seamlessly slide your stitches off, then back on, as you need them!

 

YarnYAY! Quarterly Winter Box: Jewels, Bolds, & Deeps

 

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YarnYAY! Closing: Letter & FAQ

Last Call for YarnYAY!

Dear YarnYAY! Community & Supporters,

It’s with all of the feels, and a deep breath, that I announce that month’s will be the last monthly box, as we begin the process of closing YarnYAY! by Vickie Howell.

Five and a half years ago, this business essentially fell into my lap. I was just wrapping a tour promoting the launch of The Knit Show, and in the middle of writing my 13th book, The Knit Vibe when an executive from CrateJoy approached me about co-founding a subscription box for knitters. The arm of their company that ran subscription box businesses with creators and entrepreneurs who already had a following would handle the capital, fulfillment, customer service, and sourcing. I would be in charge of project design, pattern writing, product curation, marketing, media content, and anything else creative. I had long been wanting to add a retail aspect to my overall offerings, but with a very full plate hadn’t yet figured out a viable, responsible way to do that. This seemed ideal.

We launched YarnYAY! on April 2nd, 2018 with the pre-sale of the first box. Almost immediately, 225+ of my loyal, fiber community members had subscribed, sight unseen and solely based on my word that I’d give it my all to make this sub club a special one. Momentum gained and the subscriber amount quickly almost doubled. Less than 2 weeks later, though, I was informed that the wing of CrateJoy supporting influencer, joint-ventures was shutting down. I had two choices: walk away, abandoning both the business and my community’s trust, or learn how to run and operate a subscription box business. The choice seemed obvious to me, so I jumped in. The first YarnYAY! box for knitters, shipped in May of 2018. Feedback was great, but crocheters felt left out. Elitism is not how I roll, so I decided that I would also take on designing a crochet pattern per box and since June of that same year, both crafts have been featured.

 

Over the course of the next years, we added curated products and kits, 140+ knit & crochet patterns, specialty boxes, Vickie Howell yarn and tools lines, a block-of the-month club, Quarterly Boxes, and more — all of which are packed and shipped out of a small studio in Buda. It was our founding principle that we would be a “rising tide” company, not only by empowering people to be creative but also by collaborating and cross-promoting as many fellow indie designers, dyers, and makers as possible. I’m proud to say that we’ve partnered with over 175 fellow small businesses, including 5 Designers-in Residence, and 3 YarnYAY! Maker Grant winners.

Team YarnYAY! 2023

YarnYAY! has been an extraordinary learning experience, and I am so grateful for it. It has been one of the joys of my life, working with a small team of contractors, most of whom I’d been friends with for years before. Their investment, creativity, and camaraderie is an invaluable gift. They are family. It has been an honor being even a small part — especially during a global pandemic when we all needed each other, and something positive to put our energy into — of our beloved “YarnYAYers” creative lives. You are community.

Over the past 18 months, however, while prices from everything from fiber and cardboard to software and shipping have relentlessly continued to rise, subscribers to our monthly box (YarnYAY’s main source of revenue) have steadily dropped. The losses have snowballed and now, to quote an infamous start-up CEO’s recent announcement, “we have more debt than assets”. I’ve tried every form of jazz-handing, creative re-packaging, and overall strategy-pivoting I know, but unfortunately, without success. I’d hoped that numbers would pick back up as we entered the beginning of “knitting season” (aka Fall). Unfortunately, though, that hasn’t been the case. That, coupled with the fact that I’ve realized running a company that can’t financially support more than one full-time employee isn’t the healthiest choice for me has brought me to the tough decision that the December Box #68 will be the last monthly, and the Winter Box (ships mid-late January) will be the last Quarterly box. I love them both, and I hope you will too. We have many costs to cover during this challenging time, including paying the team and ensuring that we do right by our club members. If YarnYAY has inspired you, taught you a new skill, or maybe even brought a little joy into your life, and you’re interested in supporting us through this transition, here are the biggest ways you can help:

If you’re a regular, monthly box subscriber who has previously chosen to skip the December Box, consider un-skipping. You can do that by emailing support@yarnyay.com and Carin, the best customer support manager in the business, will make it happen.If you’re not a subscriber, please purchase the December Box . It’s the happiest, little box of holiday-inspired, fiber goodness, and makes a GREAT gift for the knitter or crocheter in your life! You can learn more here.

Pre-order the Winter Box . There are two palettes to choose from, a project inspired by my recent trip to Iceland, an accompanying e-Course, hangout session, and more. Let’s hang out and stitch for a little while longer!Shop our inventory clearance sales that will be happening over the next couple of months.

Lastly, I just want to extend my heartfelt thanks to those who, over the past 5 years, have subscribed and shopped with YarnYAY, many of whom have been with us from the beginning and shown up for every box, kit, yarn, and event we’ve produced. Your support has meant to world to Team YarnYAY. We appreciate you so much.

With gratitude & love,

Vickie

YarnYAY! Closing FAQ

What happens if I have a pre-paid monthly subscription with future boxes still owed?

No worries, we’ve got you! Please keep your eyes open for an e-mail from us with more information about compensation for your remaining boxes. You can expect to receive that email by or before December 31, 2023.

I purchased something before your announcement. Will I still get my order?

Absolutely! We will continue shipping physical products through January 2024.

What happens to my Block Builder Club subscription?

Please keep your eyes open for an e-mail from us with more information about the future of Block Builder Club. You can expect to receive that email by or before December 30, 2023.

I’m not a subscriber, but I’d like to purchase a December box. Can I?

Yes, and we appreciate it! You can purchase a box without a subscription here .

I’d like another December Box, how do I order an additional one?

That’s great! You can purchase a box without worrying about an additional subscription here .

I have a gift card for your shop. Can I still spend it?

Yes, we will honor gift cards through January 26, 2024

What will happen to my YarnYAY! Rewards points?

Rewards points will need to be used by December 31, 2023 . After that the program will be shut down.

Will my digital files still be available?

If you’ve purchased digital patterns or other content, we highly recommend downloading them as soon as possible. Although we don’t anticipate the download links becoming inactive any time soon, we can’t guarantee their availability after February, 2024.

The post YarnYAY! Closing: Letter & FAQ appeared first on Vickie Howell.

Small Business Saturday 2023

As we continue celebrating YarnYAY!’s 5-year anniversary, we decided what better time to give shout-outs to the 175+ individual small businesses we’ve partnered with over the years. Supporting fellow small businesses is a core value for my own business, and we’ve been honored to collaborate with so many amazing design, dye, and maker companies. This Small Business Saturday, and every day, shop small. Your purchasing power matters.

Here’s an extensive list to consider choosing from. Happy Holidays!

Fiber Industry-Specific Small Businesses Addi (distributed by Skacel) Afifa Knits Angela Tong Amano Autumn & Indigo Becca Knits Becky Joiner Berocco Blue Sky Fibers Blush Fiber Co Brooklyn Boy Knits Brooklyn Tweed Bzy Peach Camelia Fiber Co Chicken Coop Dyeworks Christopher Bahls Designs Chrysalis Yarn Cornella Tuttle Hamilton Detroit Knots Dream in Color Emma Yarns Erika Knight Fangirl Fibers Felted Sky Studios The Fibre Co The Farmer’s Daughter The Fiber Co Flax & Twine Forbidden Fiber Co Fully Spun* Gavriella Tremino Designs Hello Bargello HiKoo Jamison’s of Shetland JanKnits Hooked Julia Madill Designs JunkYarn Katrinkles Kelbourne Woolens Koigu KraeO Knit Collage Kristin Omdahl Laura Hand Knits Laura Nelkin Leftcoast Dyeworks*Lorna’s Laces* Loopy Mango Madeline Tosh Malabrigo Manos del Uruguay Makers Mercantile Marly Bird’s Chic SheepMrs. Crosby* Mystic Fiber Co Neighborhood Fiber Co

YarnYAY! Quarterly Box: Fall Edition (features 5 Small Businesses)

North Bay Fiber Co Oink Pigments PanFran Knit Co Plied Yarns Pompom Quarterly* Purl Soho Quince & Co Rainbow Heirloom Ritual Dyes Sheep Grafitti Spun Right Round Sweet Georgia Tahki Gunnison Tanis Knits TL Yarncrafts Trendsetter Urth Yarns Universal Yarn Valley Yarns Vickie Howell Wool & Palette Woolen Women Fibers YarnYAY! Yarn Hero Zombie Wool Yarns*  YarnYAY! Monthly: November Box! (features 6 women-owned businesses)

Notions & Extras Small Businesses 2 Stitch Sprout Abry Beauty Allred Leather Company Anda Corrie Austin Promotional Products Avlea
Battle Born Pins Bee Bella Betty Crafter Big Blue Moma Big Moods Black Dahlia Brooklyn Craft Company Casey Candle Company Chiki Channa Coco Knits Comma Craft Co. Cubed Style Della Q Danica Digital Technology Professionals The Diva Soap Eucalan Firefly Notes

Gift the gift of 12 Days of YAY!

 

 

Fydelity Flying Botanicals Flying Wish Fox and Pine Ginger P Designs Glitter Punk Gray Day Studio Grey Street Paper Illustrating Amy IndiSkill Karma Cure Kelmscott Designs Kniterella Knitters Pride Knock Knock Kylie & The Machine Lantern Press Latico Leathers Leather Cord USA Loome Love & Leche
Lucky Sardine Luxe Fiber Designs Makers Mercantile Mike & Jen’s Mixology Mixers Moss Amigos Moxie’s* Mr. Pumice My Spa Life Namaste Naturally Med Norfolk Natural Living Numo
Open Market* Own Your Pride Patent Press Purl & Loop Rad Girl Creations Rock Paper Scissors Sams Tiny Trinkets Sara Hearts Savannah and James Co. Sheepish Grins Slice Smile & Wave Snifty Soak Soul Flower Southern Hospitality Sow The Magic Spindle and Skein Spinniken Stacey Martin Stitchery & Co. Studio Portmanteau Sublime Stitching Surf’s Up Candle Sun Jellies Swahili Sweetbody Labratories Talking Out of Turn Weaver Walker Co Wishcraft Goods Urban Heat XOU Yard Sale Press Zina Kao 

*Denotes a company either out of, or in the process of going out of business.

The post Small Business Saturday 2023 appeared first on Vickie Howell.