Shows
The Issue IsPeter Hamby, Jan. 2024Political journalist Peter Hamby previews the 2024 California Senate race.2024-01-1314 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 110 -- Alignment and BalanceIn which Jan continues on her journey towards life clarity and shares news of a baby shower, a birthday, a sleepover, swatches, and aligning her actions with what is actually important to her.2022-02-2128 min
Unraveling ...a knitting podcastBook Club Detour: Conversation with Jan Hamby of Fair Winds FarmIn Episode 132, Greg and Pam take a detour from the club discussion to have a chat with Jan Hamby of Fair Winds Farm. This is a great follow-up to Episode 130, where we talked about farm yarn. Follow along as we discuss The Knitter’s Book Of Yarn by Clara Parkes. Check out our group on Facebook! We would love to have you join us there. SPONSORS We are Knitcrate Ambassadors! Are you the kind of knitter who would enjoy receiving a surprise package of yarn in the mail every month? Then you need to sign up for a Kni...2022-02-121h 04
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 109 -- Of Landsharks and BathsharksIn which The Fulton Theater copes with Covid, Milo copes with veterinary care, Jan moves closer to clarity with regard to the roles she plays, and landsharks and bathsharks abound.2022-02-0131 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 107 -- The One That Went MissingIn which Jan explains that, although this is the 108th podcast episode recorded, it will be referred to as episode 107 since 107 seems to have been missed. It's fitting because it's also the episode in which we hear about Bailey, the cat who went missing in episode 106, and some of what else you've been missing from her in the last 22 months! Links to mentioned patterns are in the episode thread in the TwinSet Designs Ravelry forum.2022-01-2230 min
TwinSet DesignsThe Shortest Episode EverIn which Jan comes back to the microphone. Sure, we've heard that before!!2022-01-0107 min
TwinSet DesignsPersonal AgencyIn which we (yes, we...[twinsetellen](/people/twinsetellen) joins me for much of the episode!) discuss, personal agency, making protective face masks, the SSK Swap to help fiber community vendors losing revenue due to festival cancellations, what's happening in the patterns of Ellen's life, a generous offer from Infinite Twist (you put $10 into the fiber economy and get free stuff from Cate in return), a meditation of the impact of social distancing and Covid-19, and possibilities for future gatherings.2020-03-271h 00
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 105 -- Let's Give This One More TryIn which I give you a very wave top view of the things that have happened in the last year as well as the things I've knit and the things I'm knitting, introduce a new design segment called Design Modifications (asking you to contribute your ideas and information to share with other listeners to modify the pattern of the podcast and help me produce episodes more frequently), and provide results from last year's UNKAL, and a heads up on TwinSet Summer Retreat 2020 and our plans to make it to Rhinebeck this year.2020-02-0735 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 104 -- So Many Visitors...And Madrona!!In which Jan shares her travels away from the farm and visitors to the farm, and in which Jan and Ellen relive the fun they had at the last Madrona. 2019-02-2648 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 103 -- Back So Soon? A knitting, spinning, and designing, podcastIn which Jan shares about signs of coming lambing, hermaphroditic sheep, a complete doggy update, her grandson's name, some design principles for color selection in stranded knitting, a 5-minute interview by Ellen of Eric Allness of Reywa Fibers, some details on the UNKAL, and a lengthy Fashion Forecast.2019-02-1242 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 102 -- Annual Podcast Episode -- A knitting, spinning, and designing podcastIn which Jan provides a wrap-up of happenings from the last year...very incomplete, but sufficient to bring us up to date...and in which she makes a call to Ellen to hear about her knitting shenanigans. Note that the call audio is different, and not to my standard. We're playing with new technology and if we can't get it right in the next episode or two, we'll go back to the old way.2019-02-0449 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisdoe 101 -- Happy Memorial DayIn which I catch you up on five months of patterns of my life, talk about an i-cord edging experiment, get started on Stash Fit, and open up the registration for TwinSet Summer Retreat 2018!! Find the link for the retreat here: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1OTh5-0nJdmgFQ_vpxFicXwuJcMpWbXoX Visit Infinite Twist at https://www.infinitetwist.com/ Find Modeknit yarns at: http://www.modeknityarn.com/ Knitspot (Anne Hanson and Bare Naked Wool) is here: https://www.barenakedwools.com/2018-05-2945 min
TwinSet DesignsReboot! (Not an Episode)In which I give you a quick reboot and suggest you visit http://www.infinitetwist.com to purchase Stash Fit! with the code twinset for a $3.00 discount!2018-01-2804 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 100 -- FinishingIn which we review listener memories of the last 100 episodes, share the fun we had spending Christmas together, recollect that it was before Thanksgiving when we recorded the last episode, and forecast a cold winter in Minnesota as well as predicting the top 10 phrases you won't hear Ellen say in 2018...at least not on the podcast.2017-12-311h 00
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 99 -- Busy, Busy, Busy!!In which it took me three weeks to edit, but in the meantime I did finish the paper to which I refer in the opening minutes. Also, we do talk about knitting, and about our lives, and about things that we object to and things that we support...pretty much as usual. Enjoy!2017-12-1159 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 98 -- #WhinebeckIn which it took almost as long to edit as it did to get around to recording and in which we catch each other up on the patterns of our lives, all the knitting that's been going on, new contests and old, and whine on about how we both missed Rhinebeck.2017-11-121h 19
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 97 -- But I Digress (A Knitting, Spinning, and Designing Podcast)In which we are back from hiatus and we chat about what's been going on -- Jan hosted the TwinSet Summer Retreat 2017 and made a trip to China, and Ellen played around at Cedar Point with her clan and then travelled to Oregon for the eclipse where Jan's Grand Nephew gave her a total eclipse of the heart.2017-09-041h 11
TwinSet DesignsTwosdayIn which we accomplish a quick catch up, hear Ellen's Kefir, think about the #metricrevolution, acknowledge our birthday, get a little creepy, and announce the winner of the Summer Shawl contest!2017-07-3128 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 95 -- So SweetIn which we catch up on life's joys and sorrows, and get cheered up by Dr. Yarn and our grandsons. And in which we talk about plowing back and forth, the perfect yarn for when you're Friesian, how sweet Jan is, and how incapable we both are at correct counts during cast ons.2017-07-2158 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 94 -- Baby Pants! Baby Pants!In which we catch up after several months. Jan became a grandma, Ellen went to Scotland, and we both had other adventures. Thanks for your patience while we were gone and while Jan was trying to get the episode edited...just under the wire to have an episode out in June!2017-06-2953 min
TwinSet DesignsSpecial Episode -- A Lovely RetreatIn which Jan give some details about the coming TwinSet Summer Retreat -- a few spots remain at time of publication!2017-05-2903 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 93 -- Finally EditedOkay, I'm getting this sucker published -- maybe Ellen will take some time to tell you what's in it, but I just want to be done with it...almost two weeks after we recorded!!!!2017-04-271h 14
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 92 -- Over the Moon!In which we discuss the upcoming March for Science (which is in April, not March, but I digress), synthetic, man-made, natural, organic, inorganic and other fiber related terms, advice for washing your fleece, and highlight contests and new lambs!2017-03-2849 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 91 -- Brought to You by Daylight Savings TimeIn which Ellen spends almost 15 minutes talking about how her knitting bit her. It really is impressive. Just saying.2017-03-121h 08
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 90 -- Groundhog DayWhew! Many tasks kept me from editing this very quickly, but here it is... In which we discuss Groundhog Day (are you surprised?), Ellen's commitment to acquire more skeins than she knits...err, rather knit more skeins than she acquires, Jan's experience at the Women's March on DC, Ellen's experiences at Ding Dong Darling National Wildlife Refuge (they involve birds -- and key lime pie), an epic knitting bite, and craftivism. And we have a few words from Dr. Yarn!! Listen here: Episode 90 -- Ground Hog Day2017-02-121h 21
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 89 -- TwinSetJan Does Japan!!In which we chat about our holidays -- and Jan goes on and on about her holiday trip to Japan -- and in which we highlight a few other entrepreneurs in which you might be interested, hear from the founder of June cashmere, put out a few knitting and life objectives for the new year, and reconnect after our winter hiatus. (Note, the outtakes refer to a bit of food poisoning Jan and family experienced in Japan -- not caused by the Kobe beef, but coincidental to that meal...we do not want to cause anyone to miss out o...2017-01-171h 22
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 88 -- Holiday HiatusIn which we get ready for the holidays...Jan finishes up her current academic term, Ellen discovers walk-in closets, we both get ready for some fun with family over the holidays, and we include a reprise of the knitter's version of "Santa Baby!"2016-12-1853 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 87 -- Weinerific!!In which we discuss our four Thanksgivings, knitting going to the dogs, a new give away from Infinite Twist, and lots of weiners!!2016-12-0454 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 86 -- Moving ForwardIn which we take a deep breath and move on from the election, talk about how adorable our husbands are, brag a bit on ourselves, and hear about Ellen's fun at Vogue Knitting Live - Minneapolis.2016-11-2156 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 85 -- Did I Happen to Mention...?In which Jan shares great news, and we both talk about Rhinebeck, Drop Dead Easy Knits, training chickadees and trading rams.2016-11-0759 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 84 -- Computer Gods?...Still ChucklingIn which we continue to be challenged by technology, but are very excited to be going to Rhinebeck! No outtakes this time -- we were lucky to get the body of the episode!2016-10-1142 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 83 -- The Computer Gods Are LaughingIn which we get you all caught up -- whether you want to be or not.2016-10-041h 29
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 82 -- Technical DIfficultiesAt last...after gaining access to a different computer (the old one is likely a total loss -- thank goodness for Carbonite!) and in which we discuss visits to Minnesota, new chickens, hoping for a break in the heat, the Marie Kon-Don't Method, and the difference between Scotch tension and double drive spinning.2016-09-091h 10
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 81 -- Absolutely SlowlyIn which we acknowledge some farm sadness, but then press on to discuss DIY light boxes and cigar box electric guitars, crazy catch up after summer camp, winning prizes in yarn crawls, how much respect you gain for designers by designing, seeing family on business trips, playing in the pool at the Downcellar Studio's Splashpad Party, technology inspired and enabled knitting, and television for the velocity impaired. Listen here: Episode 81 -- Absolutely Slowly2016-08-0350 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 80 -- Camp ExclusiveIn which we recall the fun we had at TwinSet Summer Camp!2016-07-1818 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 79 -- Almost Time for Camp!!In which we hear a big confession, enjoy reports of retirement festivities, celebrate pride, think of podcaster with whom to dine, hear a negative space essay from Ellen, learn about Devon sheep and their cousins, the brick sheep...aka Devon Closewool.2016-07-0559 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 78 -- Zombies and TNNAIn which we talk about great fun had at Zombie Knitpocalypse and The National Needlearts Association Summer Convention, farm stuff, not much knitting, super powers and all the winners from phase one of the UNKAL!!2016-06-1650 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 77 -- 12 More Days!In which we discuss some sad farm news and some better farm news, business travels and ball games, Memorial Day remembrances, and the fact that Ellen is running out of work days rather rapidly!!2016-05-3158 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 76 -- So Much Stuff!! (Redux)In which we discuss trips all over the place, many projects, winning endeavors, buffalo garbanzoes, cowichan sweaters, Nancy Totten Designs and prize winning farm animals plus lots of other stuff.2016-05-161h 33
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 75 -- Waiting for Spring!!In which we discuss aberrant spring weather, a trip to see Andrew, the wiggle dance, bottle supplemented lambs, naked alpaca and fowl play.2016-04-1153 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 74 -- Twofer TwoIn which we discuss White House M&Ms, Lindt Chocolate Bunnies, Big balls of string, more new lambs, pacemaker museums, and running in slippers.2016-03-2745 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 73 -- Twofer OneIn which we discuss rams and lambs and many hats off to Minnesota, a monumental knitting bite, a book review of Free Spirit Knits and several wiener opportunities.2016-03-2757 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 72 -- So Many Things!!!For which I took almost two weeks to edit and in which we discuss retreats, Stitches West, meeting long lost family and new and old friends, sunning in company of alligators and sharks, the amazining Anna Zilboorg, new contests, and TwinSet Summer Camp -- now with more Caithness Craft! SO many things!!!2016-03-111h 20
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 71 -- Snow Bound!In which we discuss dealing with Winter Storm Jonas, travel to see Jan's grand newphew, the Knit a Journey Midwinter Retreat, Legally Blonde - the Musical!, CVM, and being bold.2016-02-071h 09
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 70 -- No Kittens Were HarmedIn which we discuss very little in the patterns of our lives, but in which we do discuss getting our spin back on, full time working for part time people, bonus sheds, horny sheep, and, yes, exploding kittens.2016-01-1840 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 69 -- Excellent IntentionsIn which we reflect on 2015 and set our intentions for 2016, talk about all the hijinx from December, and reinvigorate the TwinSet Rare Sheep Challenge.2016-01-101h 14
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 68 -- Back to Work...Part TimeIn which we catch up from being on hiatus. Not only do we get back to work on the podcast, but we both got back to work at our paying jobs. However, twinsetellen has returned in a part time status, much to her pleasure! And in which we discuss caring for my grand nephew, my trip to Peru, Finnsheep getting ready for a busy spring, getting pneumonia vaccinations, and cleaning off the needles.!2015-12-061h 08
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 67 -- Lisa (AKA Turbogal) Picks Up the SlackIn which Jan and Ellen chat briefly before Ellen sends Jan to bed to get over her pneumonia so she can go to Peru. Lisa (AKA Turbogal) then joins Ellen to provide you with a complete episode chock full of listening pleasure!
Note -- there was a technical glitch with Ellen and Lisa's chat, so you may note a bit of a jog in the conversation at one point. I promise you're not missing anything though!
Listen here: Episode 67 -- Lisa (AKA Turbogal) Picks Up the Slack2015-11-0351 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 66 -- Delayed by BabyIn which we are joyful about the arrival of Andrew and prattle on about many things.2015-10-221h 09
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 65 -- It's a Squid. Really.In which we discuss how short was the interval between this and the last episode (and yet in which we manage to create almost an hour of audio), jumping the broom, work interfering with knitting, and the fact that Squishy the Squid truly is a squid (and not what others have intimated). Plus, we have another visit from Dr. Yarn!2015-09-0748 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 64 -- What Day Is It?In which we discuss Ellen's travels to Sweden for World Water Week (there was no wave pool or water slides), apple trees, quick visits with New York daughters, winning state fair entries, squid knitting, and have a short visit with Dr. Yarn and an essay on "Why We Farm." 2015-09-0653 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 63 -- Still Crazy After All These YearsIn which we discuss a fun new craft-a-long with Mastering the Knits, how California's drought is really all of ours, anniversaries (36 for Jan and 35 for Ellen), crazy highjinx at minor league baseball games (did I mention cowboy monkeys?), boondoggles to Lake Tahoe for frozen toes, some fun finished objects, a review of "A Knitter's Gallery of Mitred Squares - 45 Unique Designs in color, Texture, and Lace" by Jill Begelow Suttell and Jane Bigelow, and Jan's new pattern and at the begining of which Jan gets to congratulate the Knitmores on new baby Rex!2015-08-231h 08
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 62 -- Just AdorableIn which we give a recap of TwinSet Summer Camp 2015, reaching 1,000 members, the shenanigans of the lamb Squirrel, a Seattle trip including visits to Tolt and So Much Yarn (and Starbucks!), knits for Vlad and being underwater with our knitting.2015-07-291h 06
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 61 -- Surprise!In which we decide to surprise you with an episode even though we said we were taking a break till after summer camp!2015-07-0535 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 60 -- Father's Day Surprise VisitsIn which we take forever to actually start the show, are visited by two delightful guests, and discuss new babies, knitting for new babies, surprise father's day visits on the farm, snack foods and cat discipline.
2015-06-2557 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 59 -- Big FeetIn which we discuss Shetland wool week, secret handshakes, housecleaning by buying magazines, new plants and new lambs!!, knitting for big feet, the 'Wonderful Wizard of Oz' and all the other wonder out there, getting cranky and lots of other stuff!2015-06-161h 19
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 58 -- Things are Going SwimminglyIn which we discuss gift bearing alpaca, four more little lambs and precocious ram lambs, downsizing stuff to make it possible to close drawers, but maybe not so much as to fit in tiny houses and other fun stuff.2015-05-2651 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 57 -- Heaven KnowsIn which we discuss a dinner for more than two in DC, visits from dear friends (military friends and podcaster friends!), a fun speaking engagement, a visit to DC by Karen, getting the Full Monty, biking around mother nature, Yarnover, Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival, and baby lambs (!!!!), and in which Ellen's geeks out.2015-05-101h 09
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 56 -- Ellen Takes a Break While Jan Yammers OnIn which we discuss stuff. Okay, I'm too rushed today to do a better job than that.2015-04-2553 min
TwinSet DesignsTwinSet Summer Camp!!!In which you hear a little bit about Summer Camp this July in Darlington, MD!!2015-04-1901 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 55 -- Knitting with Friends!In which we discuss woodpeckers, our recent travels (and our crowded airline seats), the approach of spring, a new to twinsetjan yarn shop, knitting mittens and mitts, Judy Becker's book Beyond Toes -- Knitting Adventures with Judy's Magic Cast-On, taking spindles for walks and the $25 savings for those who register early for TwinSet Summer Camp!2015-04-051h 11
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 54 -- Just Ducky!!In which we discuss connecting with old friends and friends of our daughter/niece, the Iditarod and Iknitarod, cold, snow, trips to the theater and to the emergency room, an interview with Sherill Roi who encourages us to spin 15 in 15, and a review of the book, "Solefull Socks".2015-03-221h 03
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 53 -- The Forecast is Babies!!In which we discuss the cold weather, many babies on the way to knit for and to love, the coming onslaught of mud and (happily) mud sales, knittingless needles, Madrona, water and spirits.
And in which we announce a chance to receive a free Craftsy Continental Knitting class from Lorilee Beltman (see the forum thread titled, "Why do you want to learn to knit faster?"), a 50% off sale on the same class, and a special for us promotion from Signature Needle Arts. Use the code TWINST5OFF when you check out online and receive $5 off any $25 purchase!! (Goo...2015-03-061h 02
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 52 -- Five Years in the Making!In which we discuss how good it is to be back, trips to Ohio to be with family, catching up at work, Sanibel Island get-aways, judgemental spinning, animal husbandry, rivers of birds and finishing a masterpiece!2015-02-1757 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 51 -- Don't Call Me Shirley!In which we discuss things. And for which there are no outtakes due to an incomplete edit just to get the episode out. I explain the very sad reason why in the introduction.2015-01-111h 01
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 50 -- turbogal AKA LisaIn which we celebrate the milestone that is episode 50, discuss NYC trips, trip ups with deer, podcaster visits and prank calls, Wilson's continuing mastery of the chess world, precision dancing viewed at Radio City Music Hall with Jenny and light up swizzle sticks (!), pulling it together when your gauge is all over the place and a special outtake for your holiday merriment...oh, and turbogal.2014-12-2153 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 49 -- Full BelliesIn which we discuss filling up our bellies at Thanksgiving, podcast endings and podcaster beginnings, cabbages and kings (well, not kings), fine dining in NYC and nights on the town in DC, visitors and the proper pie ratio, new members of the farm family and a bit of farm animal photography!2014-11-3059 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 48 -- Catch Me Up If You CanIn which we offer condolences to the "Car Talk family", start a new contest for a Boston Jen design, congratulate Wilson for his "Top 100" chess status, Marie's debut in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade*, Gale Woods Farm, Jan's new job, Buddhist housekeeping, NYC visits to daughter's restaurants (well, restaurants at which daughters play key roles) knitting retreats that bring healing, new playwrites and playing in parks, Dr. Yarn's anger management techniques, Spinzilla and designing for flow, and try to catch up on many other aspects of life!
*Update! Marie will not be a Christmas tree -- instead s...2014-11-261h 15
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 47 -- Melancholy BunnyIn which many things are now out of date. Oops. Sorry about that.
Key words: knitting spinning designing alpaca sheep2014-11-091h 15
Susan B. Anderson PodcastEpisode 10 ~ Knitcircus Gradient Stripes Socks Set Giveaway!Hi, Knitters,For email subscribers please Click Here to watch the 24-minute video on YouTube!Click here to subscribe or check out the Susan B. Anderson Podcast on iTunes!I am a bit scattered off and on so hang in there with me to hear about the fantastic giveaway.There is much to talk about and link for today's short podcast episode but most importantly I want to share a few photos of the Knitcircus Gradient Stripes Matching Socks Sets that I am giving away so you can get a...2014-10-1631 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 46 -- They Say We're CrazyIn which we discuss trips to the ball game, trips to Sweden, trips to France, trips to the state fair, trips up north and trips to DC and we get plenty tripped up trying to explain an improvement on last episode's slick trick. Much other merriment ensues.2014-09-121h 02
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 45 -- You Say PotatoIn which we struggle with our pronunciations, sip coffee from drip free mugs, observing wild life at work and at home, avoidance of camnesia, home grown peaches, traveling for business, tech editing for nice designers, overdone bike rides, learning along, mouse melons aka cucamelons aka Mexican Sour gherkins, pickling pots of pickled peppers, projects cleaned off the needles, managing to avoid being bitten by our knittin', discuss the value of discipline and accurate measurements, enjoy a visit from Dr. Yarn, practical fractals, and some other fun stuff!2014-08-2654 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 44 -- Back At It!!In which we thank our camp supporters, have a great time chatting about the success that was TwinSet Summer Camp, discuss making play out of work on the Snake River, being surprised by San Antonio yarn shops, shared birthdays and harmonious gifts, taking daughters to birthday dinners, welcoming Heidi back from the trail, various knitting bites (including a real doozy for Ellen and the recurring theme of ignoring pattern instructions), spinning many yards of yarn and using many wheel ratios, inspiration from Abby Franquemont, the Lost Geek Challenge Along and some other stuff.
Yes, it's a...2014-08-061h 26
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 43 -- We Can Haz Math Skillz!!In which we discuss the kindness of Susan B. Anderson, the TwinSet Dolls World Tour, quiet Independence Days, an abundance and a dearth of cherries, biting off more than one should chew, a new to Dale sailboat, drinking rum punch (possibly to excess), the arrival on the farm of Hedy, Ada, Grete and Grace, and Ellen's compulsion to calculate.2014-07-0846 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 42 -- Cleaning Off the NeedlesIn which we discuss pre-summer vacation (for some of us), 3 blind mice sightings, multiple LYS visits to include the wall of Cascade (Natural Stitches in Pittsburgh, PA and Fibre Space in Alexandria, VA), the PA Women Veterans Symposium, family gatherings, nature hikes wherein all appendages are retained, achieving apprentice grader and sorcerer status, losing one's car keys and the kindness of strangers who are now true friends and our living dolls.2014-06-251h 18
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 41 -- Podcaster Shout Out!In which we mention many other podcasters, and in which we discuss squirrel kings, sailboats, shorn alpaca and sheep, getting our hackles up, visits by fast knitting friends, not buying a fleece and then buying one after all, a daughter-in-law hiking the Appalachian trail, sealing up our fine fiber and TwinSet Summer Camp!2014-06-0552 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 40 -- But We DigressIn which we evidently discuss everything whether it relates to the planned content or not.2014-05-251h 18
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 39 -- The Wolf Closest to the SleighIn which we discuss the craziness that has been our lives in the last month, fiber classes, fiber judging, birdies at our feeders, finally seeing signs of spring in Minnesota, Yarnover and Fiber Fest, visiting family and friends, healthy animals, paying taxes, wearing jelly beans and harvesting golf balls.2014-05-071h 08
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 38 -- Marco Polo!!In which we discuss ongoing winter, the first signs of spring, a broody hen, a great knitting class with Candace Eisner Strick, insane activity in Jan's life (that ended up preventing her from getting this episode edited for THREE weeks...yes, that's right, three weeks), the languishing effort to get the Fair Winds Farm etsy shop open, our knitting and some tunisian crochet, the availability of the Paving Mitts pattern from Ellen, choosing yarn colors for a multiple yarn project like those mitts, the Living Doll KAL, a trick, an embellishment and some more information about a possible summer...2014-04-2035 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 37 -- Teaser!In which we discuss the ever continuing winter (in the frigid north), being inspired by new spinners at Gale Wood Farm, bringing home ribbons from the AOA show, the danger of loose dogs, chess party animals, putting the best edge on a garter stitch baby blanket, swatching for socks, colors to dye for, and getting gauge in the worst possible way.2014-03-3051 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 36 -- Spring Forward!In which we discuss the continuing cold weather, alpaca escapades, animal visitors, renewed work on UFOs, extreme knitting repair, four and a half miles of singles, improving the likelihood that a yarn substitution will be successful, the wonderful designs of Aurélie Coras, stick on pockets, Iditaknitting, and in which we enjoy a visit from Dr. Yarn.2014-03-1757 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 35 -- Show Notes to FollowIn which we discuss business trips with drive by yarn shop stops, discover we are both connected to an Indie dyer, alpaca barn parties, yet more snow, class with Abby Franquemont, cranking and spinning, cabled yarns, spinning wheel maintenance, a bit of outside work for Jan and a trip to the MN Closed Chess Championship for Wilson. (Congrats, Wilson!)2014-03-021h 01
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 34 -- Of Buns and BirdsIn which we discuss buns of the bunny variety, birds of the painted variety, quick trips to Mexico and the Sunshine State, Spin Off judging, ice storms, back spasms, cast-ons and cast-offs, marking hanks of handspun and Russian Joins in honor of the event taking place in Sochi.2014-02-161h 09
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 33 -- Retreat!!!In which we discuss our recent experiences at retreats (Ellen at the Knitajourney Mid-Winter Retreat in Duluth, MN and Jan at Tina's Fiber Retreat in York, PA), farm medical procedures from which several of the animals would have like to retreat, the dangers of knitting lace after the drams, the value of The Knitting Guild of America Master Knitter classes, the whimsical and classic designs of Ann Kelly, plying yards and yards of Corriedale Cross a slick trick and some other stuff -- to include a new spinner!2014-02-021h 00
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 32 -- A Living DollIn which for some unknown reason we sound muffled. (I did have a stuffy nose and sinuses, but Ellen was healthy so that's not the reason and I processed the file in the same manner, so that's not the reason. Urgh! Sometimes this podcasting stuff is hard! Well, you can still understand us, so you're getting it as it is.) And in which we discuss the cold (maybe that's it, we were wrapped in scarves and mufflers?), haunted barns (maybe a ghost is choking us?), idea weekends with ideas that Ellen can't share or she'd have to kill us (may...2014-01-1948 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 31 -- Bitten by Our KittensIn which we discuss our good fortune at Christmastime and in the opening days of 2014, Valor the Ram, a strategy for giving, the great alpaca drop of 2014, getting back to work on some big knitting projects, our review of 2013 and our goals for 2014, how to take stock and why you should eat more beans.
(Be sure to listen to the outtakes if you want to understand the title!)2014-01-131h 06
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 30 -- We Believe!!In which we discuss the return of the light (and the owls), ice lanterns, the great Weaver's Guild of Minnesota fiber estate sale, finally receiving processed fiber from the spring shearing, Christmas visits, what's in Ellen's pocketses, the best Christmas card ever, seeing Santa Claus, publication of Ellen's pattern "Bitsy Baby Beanies", successful design modifications and a winner of the Swagger DALKAL, some knitting and spinning and Ellen endures Jan's singing.2013-12-2250 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 29 -- Hats a Lot of Knitting!In which we discuss* our Thanksgiving celebration, knitwear on fire, alpaca with trench-o-phobia, cold and snowy weather, planning to make the most of your knitting time, shades of colors, crispy duck skin and foregone conclusions for the outcome of the Army-Navy game. (Navy will win, in case you are wondering!)
*And all in less than an hour!2013-12-1357 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 28 -- Podcasting Across the AtlanticIn which we abandon our usual format to welcome a fellow podcaster to the microphone. You'll have to listen to find out who it is! And in which we discuss what's going on on both sides of the Atlantic, a bit more about ourselves, and of course, our knitting.2013-12-0358 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 27 -- Knock, Knock...In which we extend our thoughts and prayers to those affected by storms near and far, and in which we discuss nasty colds, prolonged podcasting absence, rapid Master Knitter responses and successes, the end of an era in which Solveig reigned in the world of Bohus, responsible use of GPS and liquor, Finnsheep, the Knitting Pipeline Maine Retreat, visiting with dear friends, Blacker Yarns, designing colorwork mitts and more!!2013-11-281h 22
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 26 -- More Felfs, Less Chemo!!In which we discuss the Cat Bordhi Fall knitting Retreat, Frog Tree Yarns, the impressive research of David Krag (who with the help of knitters will eliminate the need for chemotherapy for many cancer patients!!!), Yoda and Red Roosters, Master Knitter II Submission madness and wild and crazy chess players, aquaknitting, The House of Jerky, super food, dressing like twins, the designer Melinda VerMeer (she does not have a pearl earring) and how knitters can do great good in the world. (More felfs! Less Chemo!)
Listen here: Episode 26 -- More Felfs, Less Chemo!!2013-11-011h 35
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 25 -- Three + One = FiveIn which we discuss trips to Ohio, visits with siblings, fiber processing workshops, the secret to drum carding, poncho-mania, knitting and saunaing in the north woods, prize winning knitting, the size of Wilson's head, the size of Ellen's head, Jan's loss of brain cells, dizzes and punis, safety to dye for, and the good fortune to be heading to Cat Bordhi's Fall Retreat.2013-10-041h 02
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 24 -- Orange is the New BlackIn which we discuss the new Knitty, lakes that aren't lakes, really great spinning wheels, black...err...um...orange cats, more tomatoes, a Swagger KAL, the Ricefield Collective, lack of yarn, failure to read patterns, getting from design ideas to actual written patterns, a prize weiner and busy days ahead.2013-09-1858 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 23 -- Second Sock SyndromeIn which we discuss our Seattle trip for the fabulous Bohus knitting workshop, the weather, fair food, prizes for knitting everywhere, camelid fiber grading workshops, capturing domestic and wild life, Bohus knitting and reknitting, share a negative space essay about returning home, and learn some more fiber jargon and another slick trick.2013-09-051h 10
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 22 -- Otter NonsenseIn which we discuss zoological explorations, tomatoes coming out of our ears, pedicures for alpaca, holographic Kelly Clarkson, biking to work, state fair entries, making a sweater in 2 years, fiber preparations, yertles (fiber turtles), and a meetup in Seattle.2013-08-1357 min
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 21 -- Hello, Violet!In which we discuss the birth of Violet...other stuff too, but really, Violet is what was important. (Okay, we also discuss beach vacations, 90th birthday parties, chickens to the freezer, knitting polygamy, making iced tea more delicious, a few knitting nibbles, what to do with 80 yards of bulky handspun, roving, top, batt and sliver (oh, my!) and have a delightful visit by Dr. Yarn.)2013-08-041h 07
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 20 -- Quickly Recorded, Slowly PublishedIn which we discuss population changes on the farm and in the backyard, barn raising, post pounding, fireworks on the Stone Arch Bridge, turkey escapees, awkward teenage birds, grizzlypig shenanigans, cherries for pie, vegetables for pickles, an expectant mother, good progress on many projects, how helpful it is to actually read directions, hiding decreases in ribbing, knitting cues, pitting tools and many, many contests. And be sure to note the "summer25" discount code on Goodstuff's Ravelry downloads!2013-07-231h 05
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 19 -- Knit Everything!In which we discuss (at length! -- it's been 4 weeks after all!) knitting to the end of the skein, starting many projects, the big straw harvest of 2013, living through loss of internet and barely living through a knock out virus, animal population explosions at the farm, many visitors and visits to Rhode Island and DC, lots of contests, reinforced selvedges, motivational spinning with the tour de fleece and a featured designer.2013-07-031h 12
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 18 -- Making Hay While the Sun Shines!In which we discuss bird spotting, the mechanics of making hay, exercise options (totally!), motivation for riding, garden prospects, possible new neighbors, grand-dog sitting, the wisdom of dyeing hair while engaged in fine hand knitting, two cases of startosis, knitting on the needles, no knitting off the needles, making batts and making yarn, a listener design challenge, design principles a la Annie Modesitt, Sarah Punderson's designs, reflections on Fiber Fest by some of our favorite knitterati, bags from swag, and a contest!2013-06-101h 13
TwinSet DesignsEpisode 17 -- I Just Flew in from MN, and Boy are My Arms Tired!In which I wonder where Ellen spent the money she was given for singing lessons, Ellen delves into algebra to solve the classic math problem "Gigi's Socks", we discuss much (much, much, much) activity in the patterns of our lives (multiple fiber festivals included!!), trips to Minnesota and NYC, visits with daughters, fine dining, farm lessons and lessons learned (Sorry, Chicks!), the value of a good shearer and many knitting nibbles, and we chat with the mothers of Steven Berg and Stephen West. Phew!!2013-05-181h 16