8 garments I knit but didn't wear this year / lessons learned - The Woolly Worker Knitting Podcast

[@lisafall3561]

Great episode Vanissia. I’ve been knitting for 50 years and it is only been in the last few years that I am successfully making garments that work for my wardrobe. I think it takes a long time to know what shapes look good on your body and to acknowledge that at different times of your life you like different shapes. I have found with some sweaters that I did not like them initially after I made them but a year or two later, I did start wearing them and enjoyed them. I should also say that none of these were a waste of money. You have to remember how much enjoyment you got out of the knitting most of them. That has a value attached to it itself.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you so much for this comment Lisa, it really helps put things in perspective!

[@alyvincent5984]

I agree

[@india1422]

I see you and I play my 54 years' card ;0) my mum taught me to knit when I was 4. I have a very vivid memory of playing in front of the house. My dad called to me and said if I came in early for my bath I could do some knitting. I ran in so fast! I also remember knitting clothes for my Sindy( UK equivalent of Barbie).

[@lisafall3561]

@@india1422 😂

[@zangetsu284]

What a beautiful comment, thank you for sharing your wisdom about appreciating crafted projects!

[@nannasallynelson3990]

New Viewer Interesting to look back and see what did not work, and then to fix it in the future. My recommendations as a 60 year knitter. 1: always use a smaller needle for the ribbing. this is the traditional go-to solution for loose ribbing, so common a problem that all vintage patterns include it. 2: Don't use mohair!!!!! You don't like it (neither do I and am amazed how popular it is) but use a substitute or go 'plain'. 3: If you are not enjoying a knit project, STOP and do something else. Even a Test Knit - it is valid feedback. As you have paid for the yarn you are not doing the designer any harm. 4: work out what colours you do like and use them again and again - different mixes but basically the same and you will be pleased. 5: Like with Like - don't mix yarn types. There is a reason that cotton/wool mix feels so different - cotton is a completely different type of yarn - plant based, not animal. Does not stretch the same, does not take colour the same etc. Having said all that, experience comes with time and I am sure this year you will have greater success. Mind you, 8 out of 33 is not bad. Now a subscriber

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you very much for all this advice !! Definitely a learning curve. At first i thought knitting was just about making stitches, but it's so much more, and there is so much to get better at, like fit and colouring !

[@KarenStrickholm]

I would just add "like with like" is not as important when it comes to shawls. That's the place I like to mix it up! Also wondering, what do you think about her using the twisted rib, in addition to downsizing needle size?

[@nannasallynelson3990]

@@KarenStrickholm Twisted rib is not something I usually bother with. I don't enjoy ribbing so make it a simple (and short) as possible. So downsizing needles is usually enough for me. When it comes to 'like with like' not only do I find it works better, but it certainly washes better. One time my husband knitted a jumper for our first grandson. He striped acrylic with wool. (separated by this time). When the parent washed it - it shrank in stripes....

[@JordanLeigh]

One option for garments in colors you don’t like is over-dyeing it! A bottle of dye is usually quite affordable, and can dye multiple projects! I started buying dye a few months back and I want to dye so many things I don’t love anymore. I’ll get around to it eventually haha

[@thewoollyworker]

thank ill definitely try this next year!

[@BookCat18]

I would definitely recommend over dying the items you like the design of but not the color of you don't not have someone wanting them as is. The neutral shade should take color well, either warm or cool, depending on preferences, best wishes!

[@alexradloff4095]

Great episode- thank you. One suggestion I would make is to consider broadening your colour palette. I had my ‘colours done’ many years ago and that helped me with choosing colours for my knits. With your fair skin and blue eyes, I would guess you are a ‘spring’ which includes some beautiful brighter colours. Season’s greetings from Australia. Alex

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you and yes, very good observation, way too many beiges there that don't suit me, and i know i love my blues and nowadays even pink! I have some brighter yarns in stash that i think will work much better!

[@j.3069]

I think a greyish beige would also suit you really well and blues and greenes and certain white. Or a rosy blush like the dark blush from drops alpaca. Try to stay away from yellowish beige. You seem pretty direct so I hope my comment makes you curious not upset. Greetings from Germany :)

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you and no no problem at all, this is all super helpul!

[@elisawulff570]

​@@thewoollyworkerExactly what I was thinking when watching - I'm a light summer and warm beiges wash me out just like you. Check out the light summer and light spring palettes.

[@verversa]

Even your "fails" are gorgeous and you should be proud of these accomplishments. Personally, I think giving the garments to your mom, if she will wear them, means you'll still be able to see them (and get them back later if you'd like) and know that they will be loved and used. Sometimes mohair tempers over time, so if your mom wears them for a bit, they may become a bit less itchy over time.

[@thewoollyworker]

Very good point !! I will await her response to this offer aha, she did inherit my very first mohair jumper with drops kid silk for that exact reason !

[@maryglancy17]

If these were my projects I’d choose to Let them all go on to new owners. I’d let family pick first then the rest to the charity shop. I’d count them all as valuable lessons hard earned. Starting the New Year with no worries about past projects.

[@thewoollyworker]

Very true and would probably be a weight off my shoulders to be honest!

[@wildcoriander]

Good idea. Other people who can wear them would love to have these beautiful knits.

[@ravenbelote1801]

Great idea! Start the year with a fresh project palette.

[@kimirumis]

i really appreciate your honesty about your knits! it's so comforting knowing that everyone has a "fail" knit piece and it's not something that just happens to me😅

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks very much and yeah that was the goal!

[@stitchwave]

Thank you so much for the honesty of this video Vanissia! It was so so refreshing. I find when I'm watching knitting podcasts and looking at beautiful FOs it's so easy to assume every project is perfect and I'm the only one who has projects that don't really work out..! Good to know that it happens to all of us knitters and it's just a part of the learning process in discovering what works and what doesn't! It seems like a lot of your flops could be fixed with some nice undergarments - have you tried Uniqlo? Not expensive and great for layers. Really looking forward to the stream! X

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you for the recommendation and kind words, I really wanted to shed a light on the not-so-good aspects of knitting as it can be easy to get caught up in the "perfect image" of social media ! And all the comments are reassuring me I'm not alone in that, so it works both way!

[@heidikarpa2278]

Really enjoyed your episode. Here’s two thoughts. 1. Spend some time evaluating what colors you love and that you feel you glow when wearing. Or look at paintings or even printed fabrics to see what you’re really drawn too. And let yourself explore brighter, more clear toned colors. You can always look at prints you adore, paintings to lead you toward a color combination for new knit wear. If you see a color combination you love, you can retreat it with your yarn selection. No need to stress or reinvent the wheel if you don’t need too. 2. For the sweaters you feel proud of and do like, is it possible to line them with a fabric that does feel good? Or just line the neck and wrists? A nice soft stretchy knit fabric could “float” inside the sweater and keep you protected from being bothered by the itch. You knit beautifully. Itd be nice to see how you feel if you left the dulled neutrals behind and focused more on clear, brighter colors. Really enjoyed your assessment and it’s helped me think a lot about my future choices.

[@s.maskell7134]

I was going to say get a wool shaver and take those mohair bit right down to the soft wool.

[@80sgma10]

Really agree about the colors. Sometimes neutrals are not your friend!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you, that was very insightful! I'm looking forward to using brighter colours this year and also trying out new colours I maybe haven't given a chance to in the past. Great ideas to look at fabrics or paintings !

[@lt5371]

I really appreciate your honesty! It's so rare among knitting podcasters

[@thewoollyworker]

Oh thank you! I try, aha!

[@rockstarkate78]

I think you got sucked into some online trends that don't work for you - beige, mohair, rustic yarn. It happens to all of us now and then. For as popular as beige is on Instagram, it really doesn't look good on a lot of us. I love the way the mohair garments look, but I just can't wear them. Even knitting with the mohair gets my eyes watering.

[@thewoollyworker]

I very much agree! Good to know now and be more aware of it. Also good to know I'm not the only one getting sucked in!

[@binarystar11235]

Thank you for making this video. Over the last months and weeks I gifted quite a lot of my knitted garments and shawls to people that are dear to me: friends, family, hairdresser, etc. It gives me so much joy to give something I have made with my hands and good quality materials to someone who will hopefully love and use it more than I do. I enjoyed making it with the intention of loving and wearing it myself, but I don't enjoy having it in my closet if I find it itchy or not fitting well or in a color that doesn't make me happy. My recommendation is: let go of the items that are not your favorites, and enjoy your favorites to the max. There will always be more yarn, more patterns, more learning and more joy. There is plenty.

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks for sharing, definitely something good about giving those things a nicer home where they will get used, as opposed to just staring at them all year and feeling guilty ! Will definitely be making more next year, so why keep these !

[@molchi9565]

Verstehe gar nicht, wieso du so viele Sachen in diesen langweiligen Farben ( Beige etc.) produzierst… Dein roter Pullover steht dir doch viel besser !? Du hast einen blassen Teint, dazu diese blassen Beige und Grau Farben - geht gar nicht… meine Meinung. Tolles Video, mach weiter so und Grüße aus Germany 👋👍🏻

[@thewoollyworker]

ahhhh sorry, i only speak french and english ! But i put the comment in google translate, and can say thank you !!

[@Lorrissyoutube]

One way to soften rough/rustic wools is to give them a long soak (like an hour or more) with a good amount of hair conditioner (any cheap conditioner will work). It doesn't make them merino soft, but it can improve their texture quite a bit. I've also read about people softening mohair by freezing it. It might be worth some research.

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks! maybe ill try soaking them in conditioner !

[@redappleaday]

Thank you Vanissia, very interesting to see what you didn’t like among your projects. I think that they are all very beautiful and I hope that some of your second chances will work out and that the rest will find another happy owner. Just want you to know that I’m very thankful to you for the episode on how to use Ravelry, it really inspired me and showed me how useful it can be, so now I have my whole stash catalogued and am adding my projects bit by bit, you are a very good teacher and I see you as a fantastic influence in the knitting community.

[@thewoollyworker]

awww i'm so glad to hear you say that !! Thank you for taking the time i really appreciate it and it's all worth it!

[@isabellemeunier9486]

What a great idea for an episode! It's rare people talk about what didn't turn out as planned. My personal fail is my Leith cardigan : I think the fit is awful on me, absolutely hated knitting the double knit button band and it doesn't look so neat (probably my bad here but still). I am really sad because I thought Rebecca was looking so cute in her version. Thankfully I like the yarn so I am thinking of unraveling the whole thing and knit another striped sweater. I would wear your Jessie Made sweater knitted with you Zakamy yarn with either a beige bra or camisole. Just love this sweater. 😊 And Merry Christmas! 🎉

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you! And that's a shame, especially when you're extra excited about the project and have a vision for it! But yeah i thought it was helpful to also consider the money, time, and enjoyment spent on it, to see if there was any redeeming factors, and some of those projects i still very much enjoyed making ! Will try and find those camisoles ! Merry christmas :D

[@louisebb4183]

@@thewoollyworkerdid you think of changing it to zipper instead of button?

[@isabellemeunier9486]

@@louisebb4183 Good idea: will try that before unravelling!

[@ramyakiran6653]

A tip for underlayers, I really like uniqlo heattech, they are super thin so won't look bulky under any sweaters and have a scooped neck option that I find is not visible under almost any neckline! Really enjoyed this video as a beginner knitter, and learnt that I should probably avoid mohair!

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks, yeah i have one and i love it !! And yeah maybe try your hand with one small item but it's definitely not for everyone, despite what instagram makes it look like lol

[@zerolein]

I second this! I basically live in Uniqlo heattech which I wear under everything. I’m surprised people can wear woollen sweaters on their skin, even cashmere would be too itchy for me without an underlayer. It also helps keeping your woollen sweaters cleaner!

[@MiMiOnTheGoGo]

Oh my, I’m crushed for you. But I truly TRULY love your willingness to share your flops with us. It is extremely helpful to see, no matter how long we’ve been knitting. My suggestion (old enough by far to be your mom, and from years of crafting made my fair share of flops) will sound harsh but it’s really for the best. No matter why you don’t like the FOs, get them out of your house. period. If you love both color and content of the yarn, and I mean LOVE, go ahead and frog it and find a pattern you know fits your body. Everything else, find someone who adores the item, gift them with well wishes and move on. Saved items that we gaze on with guilt but never ACTUALLY utilize bring absolutely no value to our lives. Needlessly inflicting ourselves to all that went wrong just makes it worse. So, how to prevent future flops? Another viewer suggested having your colors done, great idea! Take that info and the list of fibers you can’t tolerate to heart and vow not to go down that path again. I look forward to the livestream for charity. You’re a treasure! 💜Blessings to you from Hilton Head SC USA.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you!! I do agree that id feel happier with them out of the house aha ! Big fan of that way of approaching life. This year will be all about colours and less neutrals! Or at least greys, which i prefer over beige !

[@aimeelee7410]

Really good episode Vanissia! I’ve spent a lot of time over the years knitting things that don’t work for me and giving then away to charity so have often pondered why too. For me I’ve found I need to not follow instagram trends for colours and styles because they rarely work for me. I’m also attracted to the beige aesthetic but it really doesn’t work for my pale skin tone, it’s been a costly lesson 😂 However I adore your balloon sweater, that’s a lovely soft colour and if you do decide to part with it let me know 😊

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! and absolutely agree regarding instagram trends, it's SO hard but i need to pull back and stop for a second and wonder if this is for me! Definitely a costly lesson!! They know how to pull us in. Message me on insta regarding the balloon sweater if you want!

[@alexandrah535]

I feel you on this so much!! I made so many beige garments and then I realized it didn’t suit me at all. Now, I knit colorful things or charcoal and black. I have to keep myself from looking at beige-fluencers 😂 I also don’t do test knits anymore. I will pay the money for a finished pattern that I can finish on my own time and see the projects of others for. Not having to apply and make a decision under pressure makes me make better garment decisions.

[@thewoollyworker]

I agree with this a lot !!

[@vkat4167]

Not that many videos where people share their experience with the garment after they presented it in the master class 😏 Thank you! It made me feel I’m not alone 😂 I have a few items knitted last year that I wore once and never touched again. I learned how to knit at age 7, I’m 58 now. I put attention that I simple patterns are usually more wearable. It’s boring to knit them, and usually with small needles, and thus longer process, but they fit better, easy to match with different bottoms, they look more expensive, and they are timeless. When I choose some complicated pattern, it may be fun to knit, but… I do not wear it 🫤 2 most worn sweaters are from bouclé yarn, 100% wool, I bought it for really cheap in eBay 😊 it’s old stock, French yarn, probably from 70s-80s based on the label. So my advice - look at such market places, I do not know what you have in the UK except eBay, I live in the US. Regarding mohair… polyamide mohair is itchy, makes you sweaty, like all synthetic fibers do. Mohair on silk is soft and creates pleasant feel on skin. It’s more expensive but usually 100g enough for small size sweater oversized fit. Cheaper mohair is great to mix with plain yarn like merino wool or bamboo, cotton, etc. One thread in the mix doesn’t make the whole garment itchy but creates more soft look for the sweater. For the seethrough pullovers I use camisoles. I do not allow myself to show bra, not because of age, I never liked it, even when it was kind of trendy 🙄 . Uniqlo has good camisoles, with builtin bra and without, with wide straps to cover bra straps. It’s very useful item for warm and cold weather, good as an undergarment and as a top with cardigan, shirt

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! That was all super insightful and useful to read. I appreciate your experience and knoweldge about these things! Will definitely stock up on the uniqlo :p

[@annehuntley2318]

Very thoughtful and valuable review of knitting projects that missed the mark for you. I have a possible source for under-layering garments that you may not have thought of: uniform shops. I don't know where you live, but often medical techs and nurses wear V-neck scrubs that are too chilly in the winter to wear alone, so there is an entire line of base-layer wear that is non-bulky and next-to-skin comfortable (flexible, breathable, etc.) for all day wear, designed to be worn under scrubs. Maybe you could find something there instead of in regular clothing shops. I agree with what others have said here also: Stop knitting with mohair. haha. I'm the same as you, can't stand the prickle, I find it extremely itchy, even within minutes of putting it on.

[@thewoollyworker]

that is a fantastic idea and exactly what i was looking for !! thanks a million ! And yes, im glad i put it out there that im gonna stop using mohair because you will all help me stay accountable and i cant keep flip flopping aha !

[@conor8185]

honestly a really easy fix for the balloon sweater is to wear a white turtleneck under it and use the balloon sweater essentially as an outerwear piece. it's already warm as you said, and you don't really want to be wearing a jacket OVER it, so why not use it AS the jacket? plus having a soft garment under it, with long sleeves and a high neck, will protect your skin from the mohair and reduce itching.

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks ! I think that could be good to try !

[@theyarngoeson]

This was a really interesting, thoughtful and helpful episode. Thank you!

[@thewoollyworker]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lizardorita6110]

This video is not for knitters who are looking for info on the do’s and dont’s of knitting certain types of patterns. Thought this was about actual fails but you made all your items beautifully and perfectly and also seemed very impressed with your work. I totally misunderstood what this video was about.

[@thewoollyworker]

aw no, sorry for the misunderstanding ! definitely was more of a "it's not badly done, but i don't like it" failure ! i don't think i would ever finish something if i knew it wasn't looking wearable

[@annekrye]

I would not test knit if finances are a concern. Better to buy a pattern you can see many example of than spend so much on yarn in my experience. Also with your color work sweater I would turn it into a short sleeve sweater and leave the neck line as is. I would then wear it with longer stiff button up shirt with a larger collar that you wear untucked with pants or skirt. I thought it was sweet on you. Also if color bothers you dye it. Then on the last sweater I would also wear with a button down or knit collar shirt but tucked in and a shorter collar that you pop-up.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! Good idea about the collar shirt popping up !

[@fleurdesprairies6774]

C'était très courageux de ta part de faire un épisodes sur tes "flops", même si certains sont vraiment très beaux. Je pense que tu as besoin d'avoir plus de caracos et de débardeurs dans ta vie, de jolis sous-vêtements en coton/élastane peuvent t'aider à porter tes pulls plus facilement. As-tu pensé à t'offrir un test de colorimétrie, ou à le faire toi-même ? C'est bien utile pour déterminer les couleurs qui nous vont. Bises Vanissia.

[@thewoollyworker]

merci beaucoup! Et oui, tu as bien raison! J'ai fait un mini-test en ligne et je suis "printemps" mais ce serait chouette d'avoir un test encore plus professionel, je trouve ca super interessant et ca pourrait payer au long terme ! Peut etre en 2024 ...

[@pamelaq8028]

Hi! Your sweaters are all beautiful! What you need is a buy a couple of nice pima cotton t-shirts, either round neck or henleys and that will protect your skin from mohair and having a white backdrop with your skin colour will make any colored knit look nice

[@thewoollyworker]

Thanks for the tips!

[@twopurlsinapod]

OMG this is so refreshing, thanks so much for sharing. Got me thinking about some of my own languishing knits...

[@thewoollyworker]

glad you liked it!

[@twopurlsinapod]

@@thewoollyworker always do ☺️ looking forward to catching some of the live stream!

[@lenacummings1313]

It is not a crime to knit and not like the result, it is an awful feeling when something you have put so much time in is worthless. I love your videos, just dont be hard on yourself. You are a very fine knitter.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you so much ! x

[@lauraloudesigns]

Great video Vanissia! I love your honesty and thoughts on what you would change. In terms of base layers, I don't know if you have a uniqlo near you but I really like their underlayers for my knits. I run cold so in the winter i like their thin thermals, but they also have the AIRism brand which are really thin and come in a range of colours for a range of skin types. They are seamless and have low necklines so would hide under the lower knits. Hope that helps!

[@thewoollyworker]

yes i will definitely try more of their stuff !! They are very seamless. Thanks!

[@Enig_Mata]

What a fun video to watch - it's a shame that your have such a sensitivity to mohair. 33 garments! I can not believe you knit so much in 1 year.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! And yeah me neither to be honest

[@themodernneedle6542]

I love this episode. I am a long time knitter and you really made me think....I love how honest you are, thank you

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you very much!

[@ladydlc550]

I always wear a silk undergarment with my wool or wool blend knits--best investment i ever made. The silk is very thin and provides the perfect protection from itchy fabrics. I also stay away from alpaca because it doesn't hold shape, and mohair because I don't like to fuzzy look it creates and I'm worried about it being too irritating to wear. Every knit poster I've seen wearing their mohair garments constantly are trying to remove the mohair from their nose, eyes, mouth, etc. Mohair has a place in socks, but I wouldn't use it for much else. Just my opinion.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you and yes, i really wish we could move away from mohair being the "standard" in popular patterns, and more of a one-off that we do sometimes, otherwise it can feel like it's a must ! I've been quite slow to de-influence myself and im glad i reached those conclusions. Definitely a learning curve for substituting fibers !

[@The-Vintage-Needlecrafter]

Just found your channel while scrolling ! And of course subscribed😊

[@thewoollyworker]

Aw I am glad !!

[@gabriella3414]

Thank you for another great one. You have such a detailed and thoughtful way of thinking about your knitting. 😊 can’t wait for 2 January 😊

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you so much!

[@stinefriishals]

Really interesting listening to this episode. We learn so much from our mistakes!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you, and yes for sure!

[@netty062]

This episode popped up and I listened for a bit and immediately subscribed. Your honesty is appreciated but your ability to convey your thoughts so quickly on the fly is especially impressive. I have tried to make videos before and I'm full of Umms and ahs. I can also appreciate the fails as I've been knitting for 48 years. i can also relate to wanting to love a garment. @Lisafall is absolutely right about the enjoyment of knitting but don't forget about the life lessons you learn too.. they are hidden within the fabric, guaranteed. Happy knitting! from Canada.🍁

[@thewoollyworker]

aww thank you, that made my day !! I have definitely gotten better at podcasting with practice, i was full of ummmms before ! Happy knitting :D

[@kittenkorleone2918]

I was cleaning house and listening to this podcast for the first time and was stopped dead in my tracks when you said this...."I don't want this garment or the yarn in my house anymore". I had to laugh at your level of revulsion towards this vest project. I can totally relate to those "ugh" projects! Subscribed.

[@thewoollyworker]

hahahaha aw im glad it made you laugh ! Hope you enjoy the podcast :D

[@tacistudio]

Great episode Vanissia. How about putting a fleece lining on the neck of the sweaters that have mohair so it won’t bother you anymore ? I know it might be a little hotter but you might be able to wear it on the coldest days ? Love your channel. 💖

[@thewoollyworker]

seems like above my skill level but that's a really good idea !!

[@helenajeret]

Rosamunde has thin tops that work both during the summer and winter. They're made of bourette silk and merino. I love them for layering.

[@thewoollyworker]

Good to know!

[@janet7640]

Beautiful makes, Vanissia. A suggestion for under garment-silk base layer such as those sold by Terramar Silks might work to eliminate the irritation from the mohair. And, I agree with others to try over dyeing, which also would make good video content. Another thought-if you have a local yarn store that carries the yarn you used might be interested in purchasing pieces for sample knits. All my best for a joyful 2024!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you, i never thought of silk undergarments but it makes so much sense! And yeah if i overdye this year ill definitely record the process ! And what a fantastic creative idea for the sample knits ! Will look into that ! To you too :D

[@myraaar]

I made one garment with mohair and after sweating and realizing it's just too warm/itchy, I pass on most mohair combos... Sad because I like the halo effect mohair gives. If you re-do the slipover neckline, I think it would look good to omit the mohair since it can match the hem. I enjoyed the vid! Sometimes people wax poetic about their makes, so kinda refreshing to hear you speak on how some patterns/yarn combos don't get worn beyond a completion photo.

[@thewoollyworker]

I definitely will undo the neckline and redo it without the mohair !! Will be a nice objective. And I'm glad you enjoyed the topic, I feel like there's a bit too much "perfection" out there aha !

[@jomcginty1870]

Hi, Vanissia. I like Numi undershirts. They are expensive, but Numi fairly regularly puts them on sale. For me, the projects I end up not wearing tend to be either because I selected what turned out to be a bad color for me or I knit the sweater too long (which could be fixed, of course, but....)

[@thewoollyworker]

ohhh okay, I will have a look! And yeah it takes a while to understand our colour preferences doesnt it!!

[@judithhopes151]

That 1st vest needs to be worn over a black top, and with black high-waisted wide legged trousers. Could finish up looking very chanel

[@jmcarella001]

You are not alone!! I am not a fan of all-over texture! (or all-over colorwork, usually, but that's another story...) I don't like the visual bulk it creates. Your sweaters are lovely. Find good homes for them if you are sure you'll never wear them. They are too pretty to live in storage.

[@thewoollyworker]

I totally agree! Visual bulk is a good way to describe it! And yes, better homes for them is the way to go !

[@mummyevans2]

Thank you for sharing your experience with your knits. It's actually very good that the vast majority were hits, not fails. Looking forward to your live ❤

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you very much !

[@diamondaircraft900]

Hi Vanessa, great video. I’ve just subscribed to your channel and I’ll be checking all your other videos. In regards to under garments, have you tried Uniqlo? They have different neck shapes and weight tops and my favourite is their roll necks. I’ve been knitting for at least 30 years and for at least 10 of those I haven’t followed a pattern to the letter, in the sense that I always modify them for my shape, height, etc. That might not be possible obviously if you are test-knitting as you’re helping the designer developing the pattern. Anyway, I always wear a roll neck under my jumpers and cardigans as I find 100% wool really irritating. Have you tried Bluefaced Leicester? Is the UK equivalent of Cashmere.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you, yes i have a couple of uniqlo layers that i like !! I like BFL in my socks and have been wanting to try a BFL masham sweater in the future :D

[@terryannsweeney4428]

I think all the sweaters were absolutely beautiful… But I understand your reasoning for not wearing some of them. As far as wearing things underneath itchy sweaters, or even thinner sweaters, a very basic 100% silk blouse, camisole , or turtleneck. Silk is lightweight, breathable, and obviously a natural fiber. I will wear a silk blouse untucked under a cropped sweater… But of course it's a matter of personal style. A company "Quince" has very affordable silk pieces! 😊

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you!! cant wait to buy some silk clothes now !

[@LadyOfLaMancha19]

Vanissia, at the very least, you have learnt something from each project. I am also sensitive to mohair, and I find that denim or chambray shirts are tightly woven enough to protect my skin from the fibers. Perhaps you could sell your sweaters online - it would put money in your pocket for more yarn, and seeing others appreciate your work would give you a sense of pride. Btw, in terms of spending, I recently spent 140€ on yarn from Italy, and I don't like the color in person!

[@thewoollyworker]

yes very true ! it can be time consuming to try and sell, but ive given some to my mum already !

[@cornelialehane156]

No helpful comment I'm afraid, but a similar experience. I knitted a 3 ply yarn in garter stitch for the Winter Pullover by Marianne Isager, and it did not suit me. The colourwork was fun, but it took bleeding forever, the sleeves were too tight and the yarn tickled my neck. I put it aside for YEARS, and then begrudgingly lengthened the sleeves. I still didn't like it. I then waited for a few more years, and then reknit the sleeves entirely to widen them. It hurt so much to put more work into it. I'm still only so-so about it. The hours I put in make me feel a little sad. The texture of the yarn is lovely in the hand, but too coarse against skin. I'm careful what I buy now. No super rustic yarns for me, and no kntting at tiny gauge. I think test knitting is a have. You pay for the yarn, using a pattern that is not yet perfected, you aren't paid, and you have a deadline. Sounds pretty horrid and exploitative to me.

[@thewoollyworker]

ahhh so frustrating to read, it must have been even worse to live it ! Hope you have a more peaceful experience with future projects !

[@ellenhenrie4826]

Thanks for this view of the "other side" of knitting. I've got a big pile of fails, while over the years I've been learning what suits me and fits me. I too am in the no-moh camp - so itchy. A good substitute is CaMaRose Midnatssol (or other suri blends, I suppose, but this is the one I've used). Happy New Year!

[@dorotaurbanska6654]

Gabo Wool Baby silk yak is softer and slightly thicker than midnatssol if you're open to some new adventures. It is the only fuzzy yarn I can wear without discomfort.

[@caronfenstermacher7763]

Oh wow! I learned so much about finding the right yarn. While watching this podcast, I noticed your knitting skills are superb! Can you recommend videos of how you pick up stitches. Necklines appear to be the biggest issues for all of us. Thank you!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! I have linked a nice tutorial for making a nice neck edge in my project page for the Lakes Pullover on my ravelry, but other than that, usually a 2 out of 3 pick up ratio. I think Roxanne Richardson has some videos on picking up stitches!

[@joyfulanarchist]

If I were you, I'd hang on the balloon sweater and the two Jessie Maed sweaters for sure. And probably the Florence Miller sweater (it looks great on you) and the April cardigan. As long as space is not an issue, why not - they're all beautiful. I would get a silk mock neck to wear under the balloon sweater and under the Florence MIller (or a cotton + spandex mock neck if the silk is too pricey). For the cozy classic, I would wear a nude body suit under it. Or a nude bralette (no hardware) if you don't like bodysuits. I think the April cardigan would look great over a blouse. And for the v-neck, since it's looser fitting, I think you could wear a deep v-neck t-shirt in a heavier cotton.

[@thewoollyworker]

the bodysuits are a good idea! I think im just gonna redo the april and the balloon in different yarns, it's not a problem ! Space is becoming an issue aha

[@deborahshugars8214]

Why do you keep using mohair if you can’t wear it because of the itch? I can’t wear mohair either, even though it works up so nicely. Your work is beautiful.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! and i think i was just very stubborn and thought i would get over it but i didnt ! but this year will be different aha !

[@suemcevoy5510]

You are a talented knitter! I really enjoyed the way you disseminated your handmade garments and came to some conclusions as far as fit, material, color and style that works for you. I purchased silk camisoles, silk tank tops, and a silk tee shirt undergarments this year. I don't like my sweaters to cling to me and I wanted a smooth, flowy feel under sweaters. I purchased them through 'QUINCE', an online retailer as a gift to myself this year. Good luck in finding the right undergarments.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you very much! And that's a great recommendation, you sold me !

[@duritanielsen4875]

You have made some very beautiful projects. Don’t understand why you don’t like to wear them.😢

[@thewoollyworker]

Mostly because of how they feel !

[@carynmakes9387]

Why do you have SOOO many colors in your srash that you don't like or feel are unbecoming. Rethinking your stash seems important

[@thewoollyworker]

i know, it's really going to be my focus this year! takes time to learn lessons haha !

[@janika2356]

There‘s a vieeo by Norman from Nimble Needles about tendion in ribbing where he goes in depth explaining the issue. It helped me a ton! Another option might be to knit twosted rib instead which for me comes out very neat. It‘s mire work though.

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks will look into that video!

[@hanapurgerova6803]

I am surprised you're not cold enough in Scotland to wear mohair. I spent this past summer in Edinburgh and I was definitely not warm enough most of the time 😂 so back in London now 😂 And I am also surprised you're not wearing any of these, I love them all!

[@thewoollyworker]

I think if I spent more time outside I would, but even if I'm walking, i warm up, and then in places, they have the heating on, so I just never feel like it's what I need !

[@patriciaherzig1945]

hi, I love this podcast. There is another option: over-dying a finished garment in a dark color.

[@thewoollyworker]

ohh thanks, good idea!

[@elaineforan4751]

I know it feels like a shame to waste money on something you dont wear but i think of the experience also. How many things can you buy for that price that keep you entertained for almost a month while also challenging and educating you? Compared to the price of say a cinema ticket, even an unused garment is good value if it piques your interest for so long. I know its not ideal but you are adding to your skills and experience with everything you make. Thats my take on it anyway.

[@thewoollyworker]

that's a really really good point ! it was good to have something to keep busy, entertained, captivated, etc at the minimum, and then all the learning too ! Love that perspective !

[@SarahJo]

If you ever decide to sell that Northwoods V Neck genuinely please let me know because I have your specific project saved on Ravelry and want to hunt down those yarns because I love it so much, I'm sorry you don't as much

[@thewoollyworker]

Aw you're too kind! I think my mum has claimed it for herself!

[@SarahJo]

@@thewoollyworker I hope she loves it!

[@BookCat18]

Can you follow Retroclaude's example and try soaking the objects in a conditioner of some kind?

[@thewoollyworker]

i will try that!

[@annikak.837]

Yes! It is so annoying to look at the photos and see how good a garment looks, but knowing how uncomfortable/or something it is to wear. All these garments look so good on you that from an outsider's view there is no reason why not to use them, but as a knitter I know what you mean. Gladly there are often people who love them! I just gifted a long cardigan for my mum today and she was so happy with it, and I don't feel like wasting money and time on something I don't wear anymore. 😊

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! interesting that it looks good from the outside perspective aha. And yeah i will learn from this for sure!

[@jamiethrogmorton2540]

Maybe skip the test knits so you have time to be sure you really like something. I found test-knitting to be too rushed and I couldn’t drop out if I didn’t like it, but IRL I never finish anything if I decide I don’t like it.

[@thewoollyworker]

Yes, definitely going to be withdrawing from these in the new year!

[@mondayswithfran]

This is a great episode. I love the analysis of how things can flop for yourself. And I'm taking a lot out of it here. Looking forward to more of these kinds of videos to learn more about it ✨🐑

[@thewoollyworker]

so glad you enjoyed it! And yeah i really like to analyse my knitting so more to follow!

[@darlenerowe6908]

Soak itchy garments in hair conditioner, a “squirt” of conditioner in your regular amount of water to block or wash. I don’t rinse out and have great success

[@thewoollyworker]

Great tip! will try it out for sure!

[@MsRoosmarii]

I stopped wearing thick knit garments 20 years ago when I gained weight. They all made me look fatter. The thick ones are often also too warm to be worn inside if the room is like 22celcius or more.

[@thewoollyworker]

that's true that the thick ones can be a bit impractical sometimes

[@MissSarahEK]

Intimissimi tops are amazing for wearing under mohair. They are super lightweight and don’t add any bulk or warmth. I can’t handle mohair against my skin either. Only downside is they are expensive :/

[@thewoollyworker]

Good to know!

[@MsRoosmarii]

Maybe you should get a thin camisole made of silk or viscose under your knitwear. It also covers the lines of bra pretty well.

[@thewoollyworker]

yes, good idea!

[@elaineforan4751]

Would it be possible to wear or line the mohair jumpers with a silk type scarf to protect your neck. I usually wear a light tshirt under jumpers so it would only be the neckline that would bother me. There could be options to style it to avoid the irritation. The second one especially is a beautiful garment, pity to not be able to use it.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you and yes that's a good idea, lining even just the upper portion !! I really need to look into the specifics of how to actually do that because it could really pay off !

[@PriscillaWhite-Tocker]

Hi Vanissia, thanks for this very honest video. All of your garments look so gorgeous and so I was surprised at some of them that you don’t wear, but your reasons are very understandable. I agree that one of the biggest obstacles to making wearable knitwear is not always the garments themselves, but finding the right undergarments to wear with them (particularly when you have a very rustic wool) . So please let us know if you have any success with this! At one point in time everyone was wearing thin cotton turtlenecks under their winter wool sweaters, and I kind of wish they would make a comeback because those solved all of the itch problems. Anyway, your video helped me to feel like less of a failure for when I have a garment flop, so thank you!!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you so much!! Like you say, if i want to keep knitting in rustic yarns, im going to have to find undergarments that are tried and tested, or else ill have to stick to very soft merino ! And yea, thin cotton seems to be a good start ! Let's make it come back lol

[@Dreamknitgirl-1]

I love the Teti’s garden on you! It sounds like yarn sensitivity is something for you to consider in the future. But I love these on you! I wish I were your mom! 😄😄

[@thewoollyworker]

aw thank you! and yes ive definitely learned my lesson now and will really consider before buying those yarns, even if i am attracted to them !

[@Julia-lz8vl]

Very much looking forward to watching this video, I appreciate the honesty! I often wonder with knitting podcasts whether these FOs actually get worn... I realized a couple of days ago that I'd have to frog my Douglas Cardigan by Andrea Mowry, which was already 90% done (only cuffs and buttonband missing). It's too tight on my shoulders and arms, and since it is a bottom-up design, I only realized when I was almost done. (also I was hoping that the fabric would relax a lot more with blocking). It really annoys me, I dedicated a lot of time to knitting this cardigan. But I think this will be the perfect video to watch while I start the frogging and reminding myself that I'm not the only one with kitting fails. ;)

[@thewoollyworker]

aw no that's a shame !! I hope you managed to frog it, and that you find a new cardigan to do !

[@ChristinaLjungsvik]

I really enjoyed this episode, your honesty is so refreshing. And you made me laugh many times, ”I do not want this garment or the wool in my house anymore” 😂. I totally relate to that feeling. I once binned a completed project because I had that feeling.

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you so much! I really like watching other content where people talk about the not-so-great aspects so I want to make sure I don't avoid it aha !

[@nena6332]

I was told that if you freeze mohair ( in a bag I assume) it can stop it itching. Might work. Nothing to lose.

[@thewoollyworker]

yes that's always an option!

[@yumyummoany]

I have found that some independent patterns are not that successful. Also, using the yarns the recommend can be pricey!

[@thewoollyworker]

very true for both points!

[@elianaalfonso7703]

Thanks for another interesting episode. We all make things that don’t fit, are the wrong colour, size etc. That’s how we learn I guess. When things don’t turn out how I want I usually reknit them and if still don’t work I frog them and do something else with the wool. For an under layer I recommend a fine silk long sleeved tshirt, or one in cotton, or a cotton mix. Uniqlo have fabulous base layers and are not expensive. Sunspel have beautiful fine cotton tshirts but are a bit more expensive.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you very much for the tips! And good to know im not alone in making the "wrong" things every now and then! Impressive that you can follow through your idea to the very end!

[@louiserossiter4310]

I wear a body under a lot of my knits because they fit like a skin no lumps or bumps.

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks, ill look into that!

[@aimeelee7410]

Same! I find ones from Zara are nice and smooth

[@KnittingLulu]

as a total newbie to your channel, i find it a bit funny that you say you don't like the feel of mohair and beige colours yet a good chunk of the projects are done with either one or both of these things 🙈live and learn, am i right

[@thewoollyworker]

aww i know, it took me way too long but i am glad i am on the other side now ! i am taking a stand

[@rebecca-72]

Terrific episode, I feel we can all learn from each other and help one another make better informed decisions. In your case, it seems it was mostly the feel of the fabric that bothered you. Going forward, I’d love to hear how you navigate the scratchy factor! Not to make your life more complicated, but I actually thought the colorwork pullover looked super cute on you! Maybe steeking would be an option, as you said. Then you’d more obviously wear something under it that could show, but you’d not lose all the hard work. I think we ALL have maker flops. Its part of the process. This was interesting to see.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you, definitely choosing different yarns now and being more mindful! My mum has now claimed the pictus so at least it will get loved !

[@CathConnolly]

Great thanks I love your finished objects

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you! 😊

[@MarySticher]

I love the sweater you are wearing. What pattern is it? Also, I just wanted to mention that Nimble Needles has a great video on how to make ribbing look nice. It has helped me a lot. Love your knitting.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! it's the Syrah Sweater by Tricot Design MCL, and I will look into those videos then!

[@apippin774]

Have you ever made a swatch and placed it under your bra strap for the day to see how the river is on your skin? Try that and it will save you making a sweater you dont wear.

[@thewoollyworker]

good idea!

[@emilysmith2784]

Thanks for sharing this. I always struggle with yarn choice too. The only project I am truly disappointed with is my ribblesdale vest. It took me 2 months to make and it fits great however as soon as I showed my husband he pointed out that the ridges in the brioche really accentuated my bust line in a way that I shouldn’t wear it to work, which was my main reason to make a vest as it’s too hot for sweaters in the office. So disappointed and I think it’s another reason I need to scroll through the projects to see what it looks like on someone with my figure instead of just falling in love with the model photo.

[@thewoollyworker]

aw no that's a shame ! but yeah very good point about looking at modelled photos and immediately thinking that that's what it would look like on us ! Except it then doesn;t .... which is also why i love projects that have a lot of photos on ravelry, gives a better idea!

[@apippin774]

On the last sweater why didn’t you chang e to bamboo needles when you felt the yarn was too slippery. As long as the needle size is the same you are allowed to change the style of needle.

[@thewoollyworker]

i didnt want the tension to change half way through ! as i know it'd be a different experience and less slippery, my grip would change etc

[@SarahGarcia-sx2bt]

I wonder if a silk under shirt might help you. No bulk. So soft. 🤷

[@thewoollyworker]

ohhhh i'll look into that !!

[@jl82714]

This is so relatable! I have had so many knitting flops and I really appreciate you sharing yours. As far as color goes, a few years ago I figured out what my “season” was for my skin tone and hair and it really helped! I’m sure someone already mentioned that in the comments. But I try to stay within my seasonal palette now which still gives quite a large range of options it just helps me pick the right ones for me. As far as shapes go, I still have issues with picking the right silhouettes for me too so I really appreciate you sharing all of these! Just subscribed :)

[@thewoollyworker]

thanks! Funnily enough, this video really inspired me to focus on colour seasonality, as you can see in my latest 2024 knitting goals video, if you check that out, you'll see i definitely relate to this advice !!

[@jl82714]

@@thewoollyworkerohh how fun! I am off to watch that video now 😊

[@SarahGarcia-sx2bt]

I have also had loads of fails. My tessellated vest is waiting to be frogged. I just frogged a handspun shawl. I also give away a lot of knits that are just not for me. For someone out there for sure!

[@thewoollyworker]

aw what a shame! And i've never completely unravelled a project so that would be a first for me. I think I'd rather give them away!

[@sharonmerton9812]

Great episode again thanks Vanissia. Good idea to run through the garments not worn and focussing on why. SO important for all of us to learn so we can refine our knitting selections! Lighting personally of no concern to me....too interested in what you are saying to even notice 🥰Your Holly sweater looks gorgeous - well done for finishing 👍

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you for all this! And yeah definitely wanted to take a moment to pause and think about WHY !

[@izzleinatizzle]

I also finished the Balloon Sweater this year and don't love it. The sleeves are gorgeous, but I made the sleeves a bit too long and it means that the balloon sleeve ends up drooping a bit too much for me. Also, my gauge was probably too big or I knit the wrong size - because I find that the neck has too much gaping. I wish I could love it more but it just doesn't fit super well on me!!

[@thewoollyworker]

aw that's a shame !! I do love the fit on mine, especially the sleeves, so i really want to make an exact replica! Could you maybe re do the sleeves on yours?

[@izzleinatizzle]

At this rate; since there are some other issues that I have with it, I'm not sure that it would be worth it! I think ultimately I just made the wrong size or need to check in on my gauge (which I admittedly am bad at doing)

[@apippin774]

I would frog the vest and redye the yarn and use it for something else. Yes that color washes you out. You should have never got that color

[@thewoollyworker]

i sure know that now!

[@janeshipley6993]

the tetis test knit color work pullover looks absolutely gorgeous on you. if i’m not too terribly late, i hope you keep it. it’s classic but very different and new at the same time. maybe your idea of making it into a cardi would work, too? the (i think it was a jessie maed) v-neck would look great with a white pima cotton round neck shirt. you’re a very talented knitter - keep up the good work!

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you ! I gave both of these to my mum in the end !

[@janeshipley6993]

@@thewoollyworker what a nice daughter!

[@CurlySue1]

Thanks for taking the time to put this together, love listening to all your comments and seeing your makes. Happy New Year.

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you so much and happy holidays!

[@salomelelouet4635]

As for underlayers I usually use uniqlo heattech (the very thin ones) they come in skin and neutral colors, and in different types of neck cuts (i like boat and big scoop necks but they also have some more options) Plus they help regulate heat !

[@thewoollyworker]

yes!! i have a couple that i love, i really need to get more!!

[@saki1001]

I was going to say that too! But if you struggle with being overheated then I'd suggest their summer line, Airism. Those are very sleek under layers, although they might not have as much neck coverage as the heattech turtlenecks. But as long as you don't get the extra warm version of heat tech you should be fine because they're pretty thin, which is nice, but I think the mohair would still poke through though 😢

[@monicagill6319]

Thank you for being so open about what worked well in terms of garment knitting. Enjoyed the episode will tune in and support on 2nd Jan!

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you so much! It means a lot :)

[@christiegrrl]

I like Uniqlo’s Heattech shirts under sweaters. They’re pretty warm and thin with many neckline and color options to choose from.

[@petitmerinos]

Totally agree! They're just great!😍

[@thewoollyworker]

Thank you! I have a couple but definitely would like more !

[@Knitting_with_doods]

Happy Holidays! See you on the 2nd for sure 😊

[@thewoollyworker]

Same to you!

[@woollennest]

Great video! I have some long sleeve bamboo underlayers. I originally bought them for hiking as an underlayers but they are just perfect for wearing under my knitwear! So far I have only bought from BAM and I'm veryhappy with them

[@thewoollyworker]

thank you! I've never tried bamboo underlayers ! Will try and have a look :)

[@theshawlknitter-unplugged1863]

Vanissia well done for showing your flops, some of which I would not consider to be failures. From watching your video I can say that you should by now know that you cannot wear any fluffy or rustic yarns. So avoid doing so. Also it seems that the test knitting is not really working for you. Rather make garments that you choose, and like. So I dont feel its a waste of time as you have learnt some lessons about your knits in 2023. All the best for the new year.

[@thewoollyworker]

yes 100% agree ! Next year will be different :D happy new year to you too !