Vickie Howell's Blog: Vickie Howell's Website, page 4
November 3, 2023
YarnYAY! November Box #67
It’s time to reveal what we’ve selected for knitters and crocheters for the YarnYAY! November Box. This month, riding the wave of the current, fishermen’s cap trend with two pattern options, gorgeous, heathered Andean wool, and a few pro-yarnwear items! We’re also happy to report that the November Box supports SIX women-owned businesses. Here’s what’s inside.
Highland Luxe | HiKoo
A touch of Kid Mohair gives just the right amount of soft halo to this worsted-weight Andean Highland wool. We’re showcasing a few slightly heathered deep, berry shades which all add visual warmth to this month’s richly ribbed hats. This yarn is Luxe!
Fisherman-Style Hat Patterns | Designs by Vickie Howell & Gavriella Tremino
Classically handsome, fisherman-style hats are everywhere right now, and we’re here for them! the Barge Beanie, designed by Vickie, is knit in Broken Rib Stitch with a double-layer brim for extra warmth.
The Tugboat Beanie, by Gavriella, is worked in our favorite crocheted rib with a brim that can be folded or unfolded converting the piece from skull cap to slouchy hat
Follow Vickie on Instagram @vickiehowell, and Gavriella @hellogavriella.
Travel Wool Wash | Sheepish Grins
A few puffs of this lanolin-rich foam and you are ready to wash your woolens! This travel-sized bottle will last longer than expected. The gentle foam is easy on your knitwear, and scent-free formula is foolproof. Way to care for your yarn-wear!
This Took Forever Gift Tags | Comma Craft Co
It’s gift-making season and let’s face it, handmade items take forever to create. It’s worth it, but a little reminder to the recipient that their cool new cap should be cared for may be in order. These gift tags are ready for the job!
Sweater Weather Sticker | Savannah & James Co
‘Tis the season of yarn-lovers favorite type of climate: Sweater Weather! This colorful vinyl stitcher will help you celebrate and spread the message. Sweaters: it’s on!
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October 19, 2023
YarnYAY! Fall Box: We’re Mad for Plaid!
Every season, YarnYAY! presents a new box for knitters who are ready to dive into a more in-depth project than our regular monthly boxes. For Autumn, we’ve gone mad for plaid, and are thrilled to have partnered with FOUR other (besides mine) woman-owned, small businesses. Read below to learn more, then go here to grab your YarnYAY! Fall Box!
Heritage DK | Northbay Fiber Co
This quarter’s yarn selection is from longtime friend Jill Zeilinski’s (aka Kniterella) yarn company. Heritage DK is woolen spun yarn from Targhee-Polypay sheep that takes the dye beautifully. The yarn is light and lofty. It’s ideal for colorwork but also contains enough body to showcase texture. We’re featuring 4 different shades to create a rich, plaid fabric.
Layered Lines Cowl | Vickie Howell
This oversized cowl steps up our skills not because the knitting method is spicier, but because it challenges us to reexamine how we can layer multiple techniques to create a pattern. Layered Lines begins with a simple Garter Stitch stripes foundation, then built upon with perpendicular woven stripes. It’s topped (and bottomed) off with a geometric, mosaic edging.
Leather Pencil Case | Zina Kao Exclusives
Sleek leather pouches made in the USA by a women-owned company, are the perfect addition to your project bag! Use them for DPNs, tapestry needles, measuring tapes, and all those other notion-y bits we stitchers like to keep with us.
Sweater Weather Linen Spray | Casey Candle Company
Keep your knits fresh with the fragrance of Sweater Weather! A spritz or two of this fresh and long-lasting scent, created by a mother-daughter duo and company owners, will leave you feeling like Fall is in the air!
Autumn Stitch Markers | Firefly Notes
Firefly Notes designed an adorable enamel stitch marker pack with an autumnal flair. Packaged in a sweet vellum envelope, you’ll get one each of a squirrel (our fave!), apple, owl, and acorn marker perfect for any knitting project!
Did you know that YarnYAY! Quarterly makes a GREAT gift for knitters? Shop the Fall Box for the knitter in your life!
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October 13, 2023
Friday the 13th Sale!
Happy FriYAY! The 13th, Ghouls and Gourds! To celebrate we’re giving you 13% OFF in my YarnYAY! Shop of our spookiest kits, patterns, and more all weekend long with code FRIYAYTHE13TH.
What better way to celebrate this eerie date than by indulging in an enchanting knitting or crochet project? From October 13th to October 15th, YarnYAY! is casting off regular prices and granting customers a wicked 13 percent discount on select kits, patterns, and other hair-raising products. Prepare to embark on a journey into the world of hauntingly beautiful yarn crafts!
Embrace the spirit of October and let your creative energy flow by diving into the eclectic selection of yarn kits, patterns, and more! Don’t miss out on this hair-raising opportunity to indulge your passion for knitting and crochet, and snag some remarkable deals. Happy haunting, and may your mystical makings be pure magic during this bewitching season!
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October 10, 2023
Macabre Macrame: Halloween Yarn Wall Hangings
Macabre Macrame: Spooky Yarn Wall Hangings for HalloweenIt’s time to revisit an oldie, but goodie project, spooky yarn wall hangings perfect for Halloween. We got ferocious with fiber while I taught the simple, macrame knots used to make this creepy craft. Watch. Make. Enjoy!
MATERIALS
Macrame hoop (or embroidery hoop)YarnYAY! On the Daily (in colors, Laundry Day, or Family Meal)ScissorsCraft feltHot-glue gunDIRECTIONS
Step 1: Hold four-six strands of yarn together, cut to twice the length you’d like your finished piece to be.
Tie yarn onto top of hoop using the Larks Head Knot as follows:
1a. Fold strands in half to form a loop; slide loop under hoop top.
1b. Feed tails over hoop top and through loop.
1c. Pull to close knot. You’ll now how a hanging yarn strand bunch. Repeat this process across top of hoop, until you’re satisfied with the coverage.
Step 2: Tie individual hanging bunches to hoop bottom using the Half Hitch Knot as follows:
2a. Wrap yarn bunch over and around hoop bottom.
2b. Feel tails through loop creating by wrapping.
2c. Pull to close knot.
Step 3: Tie an additional piece of yarn for hanger to hoop top. Trim bottom hanging strands to even out.
Step 4: Cut out eyes and mouth from craft felt. Hot glue to yarn face.
Be sure to share your Halloween yarn wallhanging projects! Tag @vickiehowell on Instagram & Facebook!
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October 3, 2023
YarnYAY! October Box #66
YarnYAY! October Box #66Oh, October, how I love you. The YarnYAY! October Box #66 is a direct expression of that! Including cozy (and sustainable) yarn in autumnal shades, perfect-for-gifting two wrist warmer patterns, kitty cat stitch markers, and a pumpkin needle felting kit this subscription box for knitters and crocheters will have you FALLing for autumn stitching … and dare we say, YarnYAY! Here’s what’s inside.
&Make Aran | The FIber Co
This month’s featured yarn is a perfect blend of Faire Trade Highland wool and alpaca twisted into a delightful 2-ply yarn. It’s a joy to work with, shows great stitch definition and our chosen shades of Spill the Tea and Mon Ami exude fall vibes!
Textured Wristers Patterns | Designs by Vickie Howell & Gavriella Tremino
As the weather gets crisper our handwear gets cuter, we love these textured wrist warmers!
Harvester Knit Wrist Warmers by Vickie Howell
The knit versions, Harvester (by Vickie) are worked in a combination of twisted rib and half-linen stitch. They begin and end in the round, with the thumb opening portion worked back and forth.
Forager Crochet Wrist Warmers by Gavriella Tremino
The crochet versions, Forager (by Gavriella) are made in linen stitch with an eyelet detailing. They’re crocheted flat, then seamed up, leaving an opening for the thumb.
Follow Vickie on Instagram @vickiehowell, and Gavriella @hellogavriella.
Cat Clips | Twice Sheared Sheep
These simple stitch markers are the cat’s meow! Slide these kitties onto your needles like an ordinary stitch marker, or clip them onto a stitch anywhere on your work. As far as handy tools go, they’re purrrfect. (You’re welcome.)
Pumpkin Needle Felting Kit | Felted Sky Studio
This beginner’s needle felting kit produces the cutest, little pumpkin — a perfect addition to your autumnal decor. You’re sure to Fall in love (har, har, har) with this fiber craft that expands past the passion for knit and crochet. Have fun, pumpkin!
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September 24, 2023
Until We Knit Again, Suzanne Middlebrooks
I am devastated by the loss of Hill Country Weavers founder, Suzanne Middlebrooks.
When I moved from L.A. to Austin 20 years ago, I was a new knitter and young mom who didn’t know many people. I felt lonely, isolated, and lost in this strange Texas-place. When I needed a pick-me-up, often with toddlers in tow, I headed over to Hill Country Weavers to browse or gain some yarn-wisdom from Suzanne — who didn’t even bat an eyelash when my then 4-year-old was attempting to climb up the buttons shelves! The little house on South Congress where HCW used to live, was a refuge for me. It was like visiting an eccentric aunt’s home filled with the most glorious treasures. That same year, I started an Austin chapter of a Stitch n’ Bitch group, which I had previously started in Southern California. Due to this connection (or perhaps sensing my need for community), Suzanne asked me to introduce Debbie Stoller when she came to the shop on tour for the first of her now legendary Stitch n’ Bitch series. As a longtime fan of BUST Magazine, I was beyond honored! And, as it turned out, this would be just the first of many times that Susanne and I would low-key partner on events.
It’s kindnesses like these and relationships like the one I had with Suzanne that I consider pinnacle to my now multi-decade career as a professional knitter and crocheter. Seeing her face light up when yarn-lovers like me came into the room, I believe, was the key to the success of her iconic shop.
None of that charm was lost when they moved to a crisper, more modern location. It just evolved, like the light within Suzanne was too bright to stay in the cozy cottage it once inhabited. It needed room to breathe, and a place to shine. I am filled with gratitude that we shot a segment for my series The Knit Show, at the new location and with Suzanne who was then still full-cheeked and healthy. It is a piece of her that I will most certainly revisit.
Suzanne had been sick for a long time but had been a master at not letting the illness get in the way of her living. So, if was often unimaginable that she wouldn’t be with us for longer. Last June during an industry convention in Chicago when Susanne came over to the bar booth I was sitting at and plopped herself next to me to chat, I had no idea that it would be the last time I’d get to see her. I’m so thankful though, that when we parted ways to go back to our respective meetings, it was with a hug. Rest in purls, my friend.
The post Until We Knit Again, Suzanne Middlebrooks appeared first on Vickie Howell.
Until We Knit Again, Susanne Middlebrooks
I am devastated by the loss of Hill Country Weavers founder, Susanne Middlebrooks.
When I moved from L.A. to Austin 20 years ago, I was a new knitter and young mom who didn’t know many people. I felt lonely, isolated, and lost in this strange Texas-place. When I needed a pick-me-up, often with toddlers in tow, I headed over to Hill Country Weavers to browse or gain some yarn-wisdom from Susanne — who didn’t even bat an eyelash when my then 4-year-old was attempting to climb up the buttons shelves! The little house on South Congress where HCW used to live, was a refuge for me. It was like visiting an eccentric aunt’s home filled with the most glorious treasures. That same year, I started an Austin chapter of a Stitch n’ Bitch group, which I had previously started in Southern California. Due to this connection (or perhaps sensing my need for community), Susanne asked me to introduce Debbie Stoller when she came to the shop on tour for the first of her now legendary Stitch n’ Bitch series. As a longtime fan of BUST Magazine, I was beyond honored! And, as it turned out, this would be just the first of many times that Susanne and I would low-key partner on events.
It’s kindnesses like these and relationships like the one I had with Susanne that I consider pinnacle to my now multi-decade career as a professional knitter and crocheter. Seeing her face light up when yarn-lovers like me came into the room, I believe, was the key to the success of her iconic shop.
None of that charm was lost when they moved to a crisper, more modern location. It just evolved, like the light within Susanne was too bright to stay in the cozy cottage it once inhabited. It needed room to breathe, and a place to shine. I am filled with gratitude that we shot a segment for my series The Knit Show, at the new location and with Susanne who was then still full-cheeked and healthy. It is a piece of her that I will most certainly revisit.
Susanne had been sick for a long time but had been a master at not letting the illness get in the way of her living. So, if was often unimaginable that she wouldn’t be with us for longer. Last June during an industry convention in Chicago when Susanne came over to the bar booth I was sitting at and plopped herself next to me to chat, I had no idea that it would be the last time I’d get to see her. I’m so thankful though, that when we parted ways to go back to our respective meetings, it was with a hug. Rest in purls, my friend.
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September 12, 2023
How to Seam a Knit or Crocheted Twisted Headband
How to Seam a Knit or Crocheted Twisted HeadbandAs we (hopefully) tiptoe into the possibility of cooler weather, can can also ease into knitting and crocheting warmer garments with something simple and stylish like a headband/ear warmer. That’s exactly what we’re focusing on in YarnYAY! September Box with: the Plot Twist (knit) and Twist of Fate (crochet) headbands, knit in Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok Tweed. Quick, cute, and fun — my favorite type of stitching!In this video, I show how you create the twisting of the fabric in my favorite style of headband.
Give it a watch then head on over to my YarnYAY! Shop to get your box (including the yarn, both patterns and so much more!) New to YarnYAY? (Use code: FIRSTYAY15 for 15% off your first box!)The post How to Seam a Knit or Crocheted Twisted Headband appeared first on Vickie Howell.
September 11, 2023
YarnYAY! September Box #54
Curl up cozily with this month’s twisted headband projects in smart, classic, Woolstok Tweed from Blue Sky Fibers! Keep your notions near in a gorgeous little square olive wood notions bowl from Naturally Med. Put up your feet and listen to an audiobook while stitching and sipping on a nice cuppa of Peaceful Spirit Tea from Flying Botanicals. The Knitting Needle Patent greeting card from Patent Press memorializes the creation of tools that we stitchers can now, not do without!
Woolstok Tweed | Blue Sky Fibers
Oh, how we love a smart, classic tweed for the Fall! Soft, lofty, and rustic in character, this four-ply Aran weight is ideal for a variety of garments and accessories. We chose rich, creamy rose & plum shades to evoke an Academia-core sensibility.
Twisted Headband Patterns | Designs by Vickie Howell & Gavriella Treminio
An intellectual’s ear warmer? A thinking human’s headband? Simply adorable accessory? Curl up cozily with this month’s projects.
The knit version, Plot Twist, designed by Gavriella is knit in squooshy, Fisherman’s Rib that’s both warm and handsome.
The crochet version, Twist of Fate, designed by Vickie is worked in a back loop, yarn-over slip-stitch pattern that looks like knit rib. Both headbands are twisted in the seaming process.
Follow Vickie on Instagram @vickiehowell, and Gavriella @hellogavriella.
Olive Wood Notions Bowl | Naturally Med
These gorgeous little square olive wood bowls are perfect for displaying notions. Stitch markers, buttons, pins & needles — all will feel at home in this Tunisian-made beauty!
Knitting Needle Patent Greeting Card | Patent Press
What looks like part circular knitting needle, part Tunisian crochet hook is illustrated as the patent drawing for flexible knitting needles. This greeting card memorializes the creation of tools that we stitchers can now, not do without!
Peaceful Spirit Teabag | Flying Botanicals
Put up your feet and listen to an audiobook while stitching and sipping on a nice cuppa. This blend is an uplifting aromatic blend to raise your spirits, support your mind and warm your body—an excellent tea for calm focus.
Get YarnYAY! Monthly Today!
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August 29, 2023
Halloween Mini Retreat for Knitters & Crocheters
I’m thrilled to announce our very first virtual, thematic mini-retreat!
Are you a spooky stitcher ready to howl at the moon with cohorts? Then join us for our Virtual Halloween Mini Retreat! With your host, me, you’ll learn witchy knit, crochet, and embellishing techniques. Plus, you’ll get a creepy kit full of goodies and supplies to work your magic with. When all is said and done you’ll have a screamful of stitch markers, at least one cobweb embroidered piece, an Ouija Board Pillow project (WIP), and some cackling memories to last a lifetime!
There are only 16 spots left! (as of Aug 30th)
Let me tell you more about the Halloween Mini-Retreat in this quickie video!
When: Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 11amCT-5pmCT.
Where: Your place (via Zoom)!
It will be a day of stitching together, hanging out, and wallowing in our love for Halloween. See below for an overview of the workshops, projects, and techniques we’ll be covering.
Supplies: Go here for the full list of what comes in your Halloween Retreat Kit.
Halloween Mini-Retreat Itinerary
Welcome: Coffee talk
Introduce yourself (if you want, no pressure).Vickie to go over what’s in everyone’s kit, and share what to expect today, and also the inside scoop on how this mini-retreat came togetherWorkshop 1: Halloween Embroidery on Knits
Embroider a Spiderweb on knit or crocheted squares or optional wrist warmers (also made from squares). Small amount of prep homework to be assigned prior to retreat.Workshop 2: Make Your Own Halloween-themed Stitch Markers
Attach charms to jump rings and bulb pins for this quickie, creepy craft!Break for 30-Minute Lunch
Workshop 3: Knit or Crochet Edging on a Spooky Pillow
Part one: Blanket stitch foundation15-minute Pumpkin Spice Tea Break
Part two: Knit Eyelet Triangles Edging or crochet Bobbles EdgingPart three: Attach edging to pillow cover. (Overview only)Happy Hour
Cocktail or mocktailStitch-along on our pillow edgingsOptional: Apply Glow Face Mask (what’s Halloween without a mask?)End.
Get your spot while they last!
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