An FO, All of the Modifactions and More on the DROPS Debacle |KNITTING PODCAST|aka Nora Knits Ep. 12

Thanks for watching! See you again soon!
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Instagram: / akanoraknits
Ravelry: www.ravelry.co...
Contact: [e-mail]
Korshavn Cardigan Pattern: www.ravelry.co...
So So Frill Blouse (My Thanksgiving Vest): www.ravelry.co...
Augustins no 25 (My Christmas Dress): www.ravelry.co...
(Korshavn) Fishermen's Wool: www.amazon.com...
(So So Frill) Paca Peds Harvest: www.thealpacay...
(So So Frill) Drops Kid Silk (Chocolate): www.garnstudio...
(Augustins no 25) Drops Fabel (106 Red): lindehobby.com...
(Augustins no 25) Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk (07 Red): lindehobby.com...
(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
(My White Blouse Under My Vest) www.amazon.com...
(Current Needle Set) Knit Picks Wooden Interchangeable Needles: www.amazon.com...
(Shorties Needle Set) Knit Picks Wooden Interchangeable Needles: www.amazon.com...
Wishlist Needle Set) Knitter's Pride Nova Platina Interchangeable Circular Needle Tips: www.amazon.com...
My measurements:
Height: 5'7"
Bust: 42"
Waist: 36"
Booty/Hips: 45"

[@roisanaries]

As I was prepared my sweet potatoes and knitting fingerless gloves…I wondered…..”did Nora finish that vest??” 🥰

[@erinalaine]

Same! 😀

[@akaNoraKnits]

I feel loved 🥰 lol she got done just in time and turned out just right! I hope your sweet potatoes did too!!

[@roisanaries]

@@akaNoraKnitsCome on now…they were bangin’!😂

[@AnnaE949]

Hehehehehe

[@annabellavampirella]

I really like when you knit things and talk about the modifications and the patterns.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Great to know! Thank you for the feedback!

[@SharonCullenArt]

Oh shoot I hate when I hear byeeee, because that means it’s over for another week!!!😊❤ You have wuick;y become one of my absolute favorite knitting channels.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much, Sharon! 💛

[@QueenBaha]

💐BEST COMMENT💐

[@s.aliciawarren4283]

Same! Love this awesome podcast!

[@kimmyk3640]

Same!!

[@annabellerlb]

I find both Drops kid silk and Drops brushed alpaca silk to be very variable, and have even experienced significant texture differences between different dye lots of the same colour! I really appreciate you sharing your experience on this in such a thoughtful way, and all the other details you include in your videos 😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

Interesting! It must be something in the dying process! Thank you 🥰

[@Grwmslays435]

Your vest is beautiful! Can't wait to see your Christmas dress . You certainly inspire us to knit and try to adapt the pattern to your own style.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you! I say make it your own! 💛

[@lisag2275]

Love! Love! Your enthusiasm! I very much enjoy your videos. Thanks you.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@juliao9146]

You're part of my Saturday morning routine now! Walk dogs to get coffee, cozy up at home with said coffee and knit with Nora! You are so genuine and welcoming, it's no wonder you hit 5k in practically record time. Congrats! I think a Musselburgh would be perfect for that lovely hand dyed skein, but maybe you could do a video on things to make with one special skein??

[@akaNoraKnits]

I love that for your Saturdays! Thanks for hanging out with me 🥰 great idea! Thank you!!!

[@RJ-qv8ku]

There are iron oxides in red dyes (Basically rust). It makes them denser. I don't know if that's the exact reason, but it might be. Also, Brushed Alpaca silk is an Aran weight, not a lace. I'm not sure most people know that because they're using them interchangeably.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Ooh interesting to know! Thank you!

[@marybethr7146]

Hi Nora. I found you a few weeks ago and absolutely love your podcasts. It’s like sitting with a friend while I knit. I also like the creative editing you do. It really adds to the experience. Can’t wait for the next episode!! BYEEEE. ~MommaBethKnits

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so so much 🥰

[@theyarngoeson]

🎉 the vest turned out great!! Looks so wonderful on you! ❤ I found your thoughts on the red fluff yarn as well as the pics so interesting and helpful too - I guess I never realized that the dying of certain colors could affect yarns in certain ways and others have mentioned this but your pics plus holding the two balls side by side really showed such a difference. Thanks! Hope you have a wonderful weekend! 😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

I’m so glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for being here 🥰💛

[@sharonbunker2340]

I love how honest you are about yarn pricing in your winter knits podcast. It's getting too high, but its a demand vs supply thing I think. Love your humble nature. You're so not an imposter.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much 💛

[@tillywoo1]

Just love you so much! I’m so excited when I get a notification that there’s a new video up 🤣 I would love to fly all the way across the pond to come & chat knitting with you but I think my husband would think I was crazy! So the videos will have to suffice 😅. Look forward to seeing your WIPS take shape ❤🇬🇧

[@akaNoraKnits]

😂 well thank you for hanging out with me virtually! 💛

[@Butterflyjonesful]

Congratulations on 5;000. You are amazing. Love the yarn you were gifted. Your red dress is a journey and I am happy we are able to join you on this journey. And …yes I went and ordered myself a neck light. Thank you 😊😂

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you! Omg your life will change with your new sight 😂 they’re so great this time of year!

[@Butterflyjonesful]

@@akaNoraKnits well then. I cannot wait 😂. It arrives tomorrow. I like to knit and or cross stitch sometimes at night in bed however the lighting isn’t good. So this WILL change my life. Thanks Nora 😊

[@CStevenson67]

Yay on the 5k! I have to say I subscribe to a number of knitting podcasts because I like to see what others are doing, but yours in the one I look forward to most! It's a Saturday morning ritual....get up, make breakfast, make coffee, pull out the knitting and get a little AKANoraKnits fix. I really feel like I'm listening to a friend chatting about knitting, whereas with some I feel like it's more of a showcase for lack of a better word.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!!! This made me tear up 🥰 my goal with starting this podcast was really to learn from all of YOU! I think there’s something special about us getting to knit and learn alongside each other and I am so glad that you’ve found your way here! Thanks for hanging out 💛

[@kalenreichert]

Gorgeous vest! ❤ Kudos to you for making a beautiful bespoke garment in such a small amount of time!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much! I need to start using “bespoke” more often! 🥰

[@dorisenderle5857]

The blouse you chose to wear with the vest is perfect.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!

[@AnnaE949]

Way to go Nora! Your vest looks excellent. Super speedy, girl. Goals for me one day, I’ll be able to complete a garment piece in under a month. “Dense carpet” is my favorite quote for today’s episode 😄. Great observation about different dyes impacting the fiber- I’ll be bearing this in mind with future purchases. The anticipation for your gifted yarn was killin’ me. That Backyard Canadian autumn colored yarn is pretty. It is soooo good. Bravo on 5000 subs. You are so kind, thoughtful, & genial. Well deserved. Side note: I’m playing catch up on videos, like was chaotic. I still have to check out your gift video… glad your Thanksgiving went well. I ate Indian food & slept. Until next video, take care, Anna.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you, Anna! I never thought I’d be able to finish a garment in a month! I definitely think a vest is the most attainable and it’s good to note that I spend a gooooooood amount of time knitting in that timeframe! Slow and steady wins the race 💛 I’m glad you had a relaxing thanksgiving! See you soon 💛

[@bevabberley1524]

Thank you I have been watching your channel since Vol 1 you make me smile. I particularly love the range of yarns you use ( no snob factor) Happy thanksgiving 🥰

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so so much! No snobbery here! I use what I use and I make it work! Thanks for tagging along! 🥰

[@EvieO1950]

I think a color work hat would be amazing with the yarn you were gifted. Good luck with the Christmas dress.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Good idea!! Thank you!!!

[@MsFuzzyBuddy]

Wooo! Congrats on 5000 subs! Well deserved. I really hope this dress works out!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!! 🥰

[@MelindaStewart-cr7wo]

I must admit I could not see the vision for your vest based on the yarn plus the pattern choice. I kind of thought you had gone off the deep end. But yikes, it turned out just perfectly! So happy for you! I will congratulate you on 10,000 subscribers since you will be there very shortly. Word is getting out that you are super fun to watch and we all love you. Jonna is just the best, I love watching their podcast as well. I don't know about the Drops yarn but using commercial embroidery machines for many years taught me that each thread color behaved completely differently and needed adjustments to the tension settings. Maybe yarn is similar? Thanks again for such a lovely podcast and go,go,go on your Christmas Dress!

[@akaNoraKnits]

😂 I love that! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had some idea that I’ve described to my boyfriend or my family and they’ve just met me with “okay…..” I love the final convincing moment when it’s done and they see the vision! Thank you so much! Also so interesting about your experience with the thread!

[@jackieholifield4239]

I love your frill vest. I think your ruffle is perfect, but that is just me. Yes, the Chelsea yarn needs to be something to be seen. The Musselburgh hat is going to great.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!!! I definitely think it deserves feature!!

[@annh.8290]

Your content is inspiring. Thank you. Congratulations on reaching 5k

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!!! 🥰

[@amleaness]

You are so right about your gift ideas. I bought one of the chain row counters and just tonight tried it out while watching your podcast and I really did NEED this. Thanks!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Yayyy! It just makes things sooo easy! I’m glad you treated yourself!

[@marjoriebahm9239]

The vest came out great! I'm so glad you were able to finish it. Your Christmas dress is going to be beautiful.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!!

[@carrieeckrode1413]

Love love love your podcast

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you thank you thank you! 🥰

[@oneofcreatorscreationeastm8462]

Hello from BC Canada 😊 I just found your channel and I’m glad to see another fibre friend who enjoys thrifted fibres. Your vest is fabulous, you did very well avoiding major pooling and the price is unbelievable. You’ve inspired me to try the Grayling Cardigan from your “My winter knitting plans” episode. I have an affinity with cones of yarn and mohair so I’m definitely looking forward to that pattern. As I am catching up on your previous episodes I couldn’t help but adore your “A Big Ol’ thank you” phrase. I am looking forward to seeing more of your content and projects.😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

Hiii Welcome! We love a good find around here! I hope you adore your Grayling! It’s a pattern I’ve admired since I first started knitting!! Lol it’s so funny that the first time I filmed, I didn’t have any idea what I’d say, and that was just what came out! It’s stuck! I’m glad you enjoy it 💛

[@mitzithomas6432]

Nora! You are just the cutest! Congrats on finishing your vest for Thanksgiving. Yay!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! 🥰

[@lindajenkins3950]

Congratulation on 5000 subscribers! I enjoy your channel so much and look forward to knitting while watching what you are up to next. Your finished projects are lovely, the vest turned out so good. I hope to finish my half and half triangle wrap and cast on a sweater. I think I will start with the ranunculus many have said its a beginner friendly pattern. Have a great weekend!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! I love the look of that one! I hope you enjoy it when it’s done! Good luck with your ranunculus!

[@annettemonty7350]

Whooo hooo way to go!!!!! 👏👏👏👏👏

[@evawiebe7677]

I love your vest. It’s gorgeous.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!

[@Handmadehere]

Congrats on the 5000, that amazing!! I'd like to see a video where you talk about all the knits you did before your podcast, I love a knitting round up video.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! I think I can manage that!!!

[@melisadiaz9018]

I have knitted with and still have a ball of black Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk and I hadn't noticed before, but it is really dense and not very fluffy. What I do remember is that it was a pain knitting with it because it shed horribly. I would find black hairs everywhere for weeks after finishing the project. I haven't heard anyone talk about how it sheds so I thought maybe it was my particular batch so I bought a light beige for another project and it does lose some fibers here and there, but it's in no way the same kind of shedding. If I compare both colours, they do look like the ones in your picture, the beige is fluffier and seems to have thinner hairs compared to the denser and thicker black one.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Soooo interesting! I haven’t found that the red sheds particularly, but that also could be because it’s so squished! I wonder if I’ll have a similar experience knitting with my grey. It seems like the yarn has its inconsistencies. I can’t even be mad since it is so budget friendly, but it’s good to know!

[@AnnaE949]

That’s so interesting, thanks for sharing your experience.

[@nicannjones]

Your finished project photos are always fantastic. Would love to see a video on how you go about shooting them... How you pick total outfit, location, who takes the photo, camera, etc...

[@madelineeisen]

yes! This is a great video idea. I take FO photos too and love to see other fiber friends celebrating their makes and giving them the spotlight. Tips, tricks, insights on photography for FO would be amazing!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Love this idea! Pushing it closer to the top of the list! Thank you!

[@heatherr9201]

Yay… great job on your vest and mods… I agree it’s fun and nice to make it what we want. ❤❤❤🎉

[@akaNoraKnits]

thank you!!! 🥰

[@MrsGrinnellma]

Your vest and color choices are wonderful!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!

[@lydiadaugherty5171]

Love how your Vest turned out! Great Color muting and so warm in choices of your yarns!! Congrats on your frilly ruffle. Happy Thanks Giving!!

[@lydiadaugherty5171]

Love the Velvety look the Brushed is coming out almost like a soft felted and satiny fabric.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!!

[@akaNoraKnits]

You are so right! I will have to shift my mind set so that I see the same!

[@jennifershears-dolle209]

Congrats on 5000! Super exciting! Ive had the Birkin sweater in my que for ages! I bought the most beautiful yarn from Mountain Meadow wool, but have been hesitant to start because of first it is a top down struture , which i absolutely hate, so i may flip it and work it bottom up but second reason its not on my needles is all the comments about how badly the yoke fits. I'm hoping this year to just dive in fully expecting i will need to make some mods. Wondering if you have ever read any of Elizabeth Zimmerman books? They are absolutely fabulous, in my opinion. Thank you for another great episode, i just love watching you!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much! I say dive in! What’s the worst that happens? You take it out? I think you’ve got this! I haven’t read them but you’ve certainly peaked my interest! Thank you 🥰

[@jennifershears-dolle209]

@akaNoraKnits OH you should absolutely check them out! She very much encourages people to really take a pattern as just an outline and then make it your own giving you tools to do just that, and she has such a great sense of humor. Her books are not only packed with info but entertaining, lol. Happy knitting!

[@OwlEyesReviews]

Congrats on 5k! I LOVE your videos. You and I are almost the exact same size, so I really love watching your videos because if I like something that you're knitting, I wait until you're done with it to see how it fits. It's SUPER nice. I cannot wait to see what you'll do next :)

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much! That makes me so happy to hear! I’m happy to be your preview!

[@lauriepusateri7493]

Great podcast. I am a new knitter too. I taught myself in January. I have only been knitting shawls and blankets. I am scared to knit a sweater because I am a left hand English style knitter moving stitches from right needle to left needle and am scared to figure out the decreases on a sweater. I can’t find a leftie podcaster. Cheers from SoCal

[@akaNoraKnits]

We’re on the same timeline! I love it! I believe that Amy of NE Knits is a lefty knitter, but I think she may do things a little differently! Worth checking out though! Maybe start with a baby/children’s size sweater just to get the hang of it without committing to something bigger? I am confident you can get it!!!

[@Meredith36]

Congratulations again on over 5k subscribers. This is absolutely amazing 🎉🎉🎉! Your vest looks fantastic! I love the one ruffle; it so elegant. I thought the hypothesis about the dye and brushed alpaca was very interesting, and good to remember. I hope your dress comes out beautifully and has a great feel. Happy knitting!!! 💚🧶💚

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so so much! 🥰

[@oldwitchknits-Ursula]

Congrats to 5K subscribers in such a short amount of time! I wouldn't be surprised if you get to 10K pretty quickly too because you are just fun to watch. Can't wait to see progress on your dress next week! I made a musselburgh without much exitement from sock yarn. It was my "wait in the car for the kids" knit for a couple month. Finally finished it and it is my absolute favourite now. Something about the thin yarn (I knit it on 3mm) but still warm because of the double layer. Working on my second.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so so much 🥰 I can’t wait to finally get a Musselburgh in my life! I hope I love it just as much!

[@SewKnitee]

Congratulations Nora! Your vest turned out super cute and all your personalized touches worked for a great vest that's just so you! Have you considered a shawl for your single skein? The hipster by Joji would look pretty in that yarn! Can't wait to see what you decide to make!😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! I have to say that I am just not a shawl person lol. I love freedom of movement and am either out and about and working with my hands or home just comfy and cozy, so I feel like a shawl would never find its place in my wardrobe. I love the look of them on others, but I’ll put it off for a little bit still. Never say never!

[@kaymack5304]

I have been waiting to see if you were able to finish your vest in time for Thanksgiving, and you did! I wasn’t really surprised you were able to as you seem to be a quick knitter.😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

It was pretty down to the wire! But with the right mods, she got done! I certainly crammed in a LOT of knitting time!

[@noelleparris9451]

Nora, congrats on your vest! Very pretty. I liked your version of the word 'modifications' as well😂 A tip for you (and I hope you aren't offended): if the thing you're referring to can be counted, use number. If it can't be counted, use amount. Amount of time? Yes. Amount of yarn? Definitely! But amount of stitches? No😢 It is a number of stitches. (Sorry: I recently retired from teaching and I was unable to let this go. Sooooo many podcasters talk about the "amount of stitches" they cast on, knit, decrease....but they mean the number of them.) I enjoy your enthusiasm (and your knits) 👍🏾😊

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!

[@daniellejohnson3364]

The vest is so pretty! You finished in record time, congratulations on 5k ❤

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@stephaniebenson2501]

Perhaps you should add the second ruffles sooner rather than waiting until next fall….very pretty piece.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you! If inspiration strikes, I’ll jump on it! But for now, I’m happy with her ☺️

[@cynthiaspear-duncan7661]

Listen to "the Peoples"...its a beautiful vest. And so impressive that you can make all those modifications and think its a simple thing. I do love it.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@jacquelinedenkinger5625]

Such a coincidence TODAY I was swatching with Drops brushed Alpaca Silk for the first time ever (I have never ever used "fluff" yarn before) and I was thinking how unimpressive and flat and YES dense it was looking. It is in the emerald green colour. So I think you are absolutely on to something here! 😮

[@akaNoraKnits]

Wow!!! See! That’s so so interesting to me!

[@HyperCactus72]

Your vest turned out great! I think youre right about the coloring process causing the floof not to floof.. i have saturated colors of baby suri aplaca in another brand that look the same. As far as a podcast/vlog that id like to see - A Day in the Life of AkaNora Knits would be super fun! Have a great weekend! Thanks!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! So fascinating! It's such a shame because the grey is so soft and fluffy! Good to know though! Thank you for the rec!!! 🥰

[@Romantikzwerg]

I purchased the brushed alpaca silk in the Same Light Grey as you and the Curry color and Mine are both the Same

[@pamelabubeck491]

Love your vest! Add the second ruffle next Thanksgiving!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you! I jokingly said it’ll get another ruffle every year for Thanksgiving 😂

[@marjoriesolomon4955]

I’m currently making a sweater with the drops brushed alpaca in color 5 (kind of a mushroom color). It’s soft and fluffy and delightful! I’m a fan of suri alpaca because I find it softer and less prickly than mohair. I’m hoping you just got a bad batch, because I’d love to use this yarn again in a more saturated color.

[@akaNoraKnits]

I'm glad you are enjoying it! I am hoping I got a bad batch too! Unfortunately, it does sound like other people have had a similar experience with the saturated colors. I'll be more observant in future orders!

[@mrsjekyll]

I'm really looking forward to every upload of yours! It's always a fun time hearing about your projects and you have such a nice vibe :) I got the Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk in the dark teal colour (I dunno the name of the top of my head right now) and mine was fluffy. The fluff wasn't as long as the Drops Silk Mohairs but not as compressed as the one of your red.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much 🥰 so interesting to know!

[@TheMoodyRose]

Have you washed and blocked your swatch for the Christmas dress? Maybe washing it will help the denseness in the red alpaca and relax it. Let it soak a good hour.

[@EruantieNelly]

It's so funny to watch this because I hadn't heard of Madame Fauvel until I signed up to do her test knit because she was looking to expand her sizes. Since then I've seen two of your videos that mentioned her, so now I'm watching your video with different eyes. I'm testing the XXL size for her which is very exciting!

[@akaNoraKnits]

That is amazing!!! Her patterns are so beautiful! I hope the expanded sizes stick around!!!

[@EruantieNelly]

@@akaNoraKnits I agree, her patterns are right up my alley

[@shannarheault5804]

I've never worked with mohair or the brushed alpaca personally, but I'm a relatively new yarn dyer. As you mentioned with hair dyeing, the more pigmented the colour, the more it can affect the fiber. That being said, there is definitely a saturation point where the dye no longer penetrates the fiber and just sits on top of it. I'm curious how much colour bleeding will happen (if any), and how much the fiber will fluff up after it's been washed. Either way, your dress will be gorgeous and I hope it ends up being what you wanted!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Such a great point! Thank you for the insight!!

[@krn_again]

You asked for ideas in this podcast...I absolutely LOVE watching you and have been so inspired...I've bought some of the patterns you've mentioned, along with yarn but that's where I'm stuck. I'm a beginner /intermediate knitter and am ready to knit my first sweater but I'm slightly terrified!! Do you have suggestions, ideas, inspiration, and advice for someone knitting their first sweater? I am excitedly terrified!!!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Yes yes yes!!! I’d love to get into this topic a bit more! Thank you for the suggestion!!

[@debradarman-mcclung8133]

So stinking cute. You did such a great job on your vest. As per your dress, perhaps change the alpaca color to a lighter shade after you’re finished with the top. Just a thought. I am not surprised you reached 5,000 viewers. You do such a great job. You are so creative. I look forward to your podcast every week.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you thank you thank you! 🥰

[@AnineHartog]

Congratulations Nora with reaching 5000 subscibers

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you 🥰🥰🥰

[@lgbinkley]

I ❤ your vest and you look fabulous in it. Congrats on hitting 5K, before you know you will have 10k. I am going to repeat what everyone else is saying, I just love sharing my Saturday with Nora. I would love to know more about what inspires your yarn choices and what made you grab the Thanksgiving vest yarn. I might have left it but you turned it into something so pretty. So maybe a video about your inspiration and. Creativity would be fun!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so so much! I love hanging out with y’all every week 💛 I love that idea! Thank you!!!

[@lisareynolds4679]

I love this! Do you think a novice knitter could make this? PS. I love sitting down on Saturday mornings and catching up with you! You radiate positive energy ❤ and I love seeing your projects.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you!!! I think that the So So Frill blouse pattern is written very well and straightforward, with links to videos for trickier things. I'd say that if you are familiar with sweater garment construction, it is an adventurous pattern for a novice! I also think it's hard to say, because I still consider myself an adventurous beginner, but I think everyone is different! I hope that helps! Thanks for watching!

[@Twilightwitchery]

Yay! I’m so glad you got your vest done in time, it’s lovely. I laughed when you said you were using a mini Stanley tape measure, I currently have one in my project bag 😂 I’d be interested in whatever you find out about that yarn, I haven’t used it so I can’t say but now I want to know if it’s a dye thing or a weight thing or what.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you! Those things are so handy 😂

[@brendah395]

Can you attach a link for the blouse you’re wearing? I’m about the same size as you and can’t seem to find a blouse I like for under my knitted vest. Thanks! Looove your podcast!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Popping it in the description right now!!!

[@star_cruiser1997]

Congratulations on your first 5K 🎉🎉🎉🎉I don't know about others but I can watch an episode featuring Osi playing around. You can threw couple of skeins on background to make episode more knit related 😁

[@akaNoraKnits]

😂😂😂 thank you! I love that!

[@cynthiaspear-duncan7661]

I have noticed that with a gray, gray Heather yarn. Oh...i also use a carpenter's, mini measuring tape.

[@QueenBaha]

🎉🎉5K+ subscribers yaaaaaa whoooooo we love ya jellybean!!! Oh and Osi 🐶 too, and the animations, and the genuineness and your personality and your quirkiness and your smile and the channel vibe and that it’s a safe place to watch and and and…you get the point eh🤭 Well goll-ley comparing those yarns the red looks like it was shocked with electric current what a stark difference. How does the knitted fabric feel in your hands? I DID notice you “didn’t “ make a point about that so I’m thinking it’ll be just fine. Your vest is adorable, I’m surprised at the amt of leftover yarn as well hmm makes me wonder if I can use some skeins that’s been laying around forever, I could make a vest since I’ve never made one, or something similar. And the lovely care packages you received are so thoughtful…YES that skein of gifted yarn is gorgeous girl, no giveaway with that one I agree teehehe! Thanks for this lovely video, like another commenter I get cross when it’s over lmao, your such a great online friend, I’m so glad you decided to create a YT channel so your “people” can have someone to love up on & show support & kindness. Love ya in spirit Nora💐 I’m never alone with this channel in the universe ☀️🌴

[@akaNoraKnits]

👑 thank youuuuu! We’re jumping and celebrating! You are dead on! It looks like it’s been shocked and shriveled 😂 the fabric is still soft and cozy, just less light and airy and hairy and all that! Who knew vests were so light on yarn! Totally changes my perspective on the few skeins kicking around ! Thanks for being here 🥰💛

[@kathyn3875]

I would follow up with Drops about the difference with the brushed red alpaca. Interesting observation.

[@akaNoraKnits]

It may be worth reaching out!

[@Stitchers_Whimsy]

Congrats on 5K! But what about using that gifted skein as the color changing part of something like a Doodle from Pacific Knit Wear or as the contrast color in a color work sweater? I don’t know how much total you would need but that would be a really cool way to make it pop! Especially if you offset it with a neutral tan or darker cream-ish type color?

[@akaNoraKnits]

I LOVE this idea! I do really think it would pop next to a neutral!

[@lydiadaugherty5171]

Sweet! Wonderful gufts! How about Vlog~MAS! Advent Stash Busting with Minies...

[@amandakedaigle6895]

I pulled out a ball of Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk in colour 13 (Denim I think), and I would say it looks more like your gray ball than the red! Hopefully you just got a weird batch...not that that helps you much. Hopefully your beautiful Christmas dress will still be comfy and fun to wear! The color is awesome

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you for looking! I’d prefer it just be a bad batch than anything else. I think it’ll still work up fine-definitely nice and cozy!

[@SharonCullenArt]

Nora, I’m knitting the Stripe Hype sweater by Veronica Lindberg aka Kutokavika in Drops brushed alpaca silk and I’m using 6 different colors. I do also have red which I decided not to use only because I didn’t have enough to hold double as I am doing. I have not noticed any difference. But going back and actually feeling each color, there may be the slightest and I mean almost undetectable variation. So if I venture to guess I’d say you got a bad dye lot. But you could also try washing it to rinse the dye and see if that helps. I do hope there isn’t any bleeding in mine though because mine is striped with white in between! 🫣😬

[@akaNoraKnits]

First of all, that just sounds so cozy! Second, that is great to know! I do hope that mine is just a bad dye lot. I hope the colors don't bleed 😬

[@ashluvsuu]

where did you get your earrings?? they're perfect 🥰

[@akaNoraKnits]

Thank you so much!!! I got them at Nordstrom Rack YEARS ago. I wish I could remember the brand. They are my most worn earring!

[@fiddliedee01]

I have the same thoughts on my Drops brushed alpaca silk in the colour Curry I'm pairing it with Drops Lima on a 6mm needle but haven't started yet. Fingers crossed it works out 🤞Can I just say as I am Scottish and live near Musselburgh it is pronounced muscle-bra, (sorry one of my pet hates🙄)

[@akaNoraKnits]

So fascinating!!! THANK YOU! I hate not pronouncing things properly, and it’s especially tricky with the diversity in knitting patterns so I always second guess what I’m saying! Muscle-bra! I will do my best to shift my memory now! You are always welcome, and encouraged, to help me with pronunciation! I appreciate it very much! Thank you!

[@Susi1406]

I loved listening to your take on the red brushed alpaca yarn. 🧶 it makes complete sense the color/dying would make the yarn more dense. I have noticed my pumpkin orange alpaca is dense as well. It didn’t bother me because it doesn’t shed and I am very happy with the current result.

[@akaNoraKnits]

Totally not a problem if you’re not expecting the fluff of it all! It is super soft! Very interesting though!

[@Sille_pakalski]

I bought the 'beige' (even tho it's brown) brushed alpaca silk and the fibers look really similar to your red alpaca tbh, mine is a bit fluffier with more of a halo tho:D

[@akaNoraKnits]

Seems like there's a lotttt of inconsistency

[@Golden.5555]

Nora can you sometime go over in a video how you learned to knit and how you became an awesome one?

[@akaNoraKnits]

You’re too kind! I can definitely talk about how I learned!!!

[@Loopsonloops]

Where do you purchase your drops yarn from? I have a hard time finding it in the US. thanks!

[@akaNoraKnits]

I purchased mine through LindeHobby! It was super smooth to order and I just waited until I had a big enough order for free shipping!

[@rachelraye285]

The same thing that is happening to your red is the same that happened to my black brushed alpaca. My beige one is perfect and fluffy and I am enjoying it but the black one is dense and you cannot see the stitches.

[@akaNoraKnits]

So interesting!

[@jenniferoden9343]

It looks like your red Drops yarn was felted, likely in the dying process and not the storage singe the entire ball is knitting up the same way. That may work in your favor for the bust of your dress, but not for the sleeves or skirt. Looking forward to see how you navigate using the yarn in your project. As for video ideas...I would love to see what you finished and frogged in your first year of knitting.

[@akaNoraKnits]

So interesting! I am curious to see how it plays out too 😂 great idea! Thank you!!!

[@karenalbery2773]

Is all your red brushed alpaca that dense? I wonder if it got felted ? Although thats horrible quality control.... as someone who dapples in dyeing as a hobby i definately have experienced different dyes and different colors on different fibers need different conditions to bind to the fiber completely , like more heat or acid or longer in the dye bath and that can absolutely change the texture slightly especially of more delicate fibers. I wouldnt think a big commercially manufactured yarn would be that different. I almost want to order some just to let you know if mine was the same or not hahaha. Good luck with the dress. If you dont make it by christmas there is always newyears!

[@akaNoraKnits]

Great question! Some are more fluffy than others, but the fibers themselves do all have that kind of squiggly crushed look. I’m now hearing mixed experiences so I am not confident that I it is an isolated incident. Definitely not great considering what a large company it is, but I also can’t complain too much because of the price. I’m fascinated by the dying and I know it’s not easy! Thank you 🥰

[@mongrain8934]

❤❤❤

[@stitchedscorpio]

hehe it’s progress keeper not project keeper! I felt the exact same way when i started using one for the first time too ♥️

[@maryannbaker9960]

I think the Montana Mountain Cowl by Andrea Mowry would be perfect for that beautiful skein of yarn.

[@akaNoraKnits]

I must look! Thank you!

[@Unitubeful]

Wondering something .... since your dress originally was made up at a massive looser gauge and you modified it to a smaller gauge so it's not so see threw and more of a solid fabric..... do you really need to double thick the chest section?? I could see that being a NEED when the fabric is so "thin" ..... also welcome to to the world of progress keepers! I did finally buy a set of vegetables i found on etsy for my vegetable knitting projects and also I picked up some mini Christmas lights to mark my repeats and a fun snowman wearing some knits as something cute i can look at wile i knit away on my projects. Seeing my repeats grow and seeing the mini Christmas lights along the side get longer just is more fun and enjoyable to see as i am working on my project as i am feeling more and more festive!

[@akaNoraKnits]

You know, I wondered the same thing….but not until it was almost done 😅 it is pretty dense. But I figured it couldn’t hurt to have the extra stability with all of the weight of the skirt underneath it. Omg the world of knitting accessories is so dangerous ! I am sure this will not be my last!

[@CrazyMomma007]

I would love a special AMA (ask me anything) video where views submit ?s ahead of time & you answer ! Like, do you do your own editing? And, are you drawing all those DARLING knitted graphics that pop up? ❤

[@akaNoraKnits]

I think we can arrange that! And yes, I do my own editing 🥰

[@CrazyMomma007]

@@akaNoraKnits wow! Didn’t think I could be more impressed but I am! Great illustrations! Are you bad at anything?

[@lydiadaugherty5171]

Sweet! Wonderful gifts! How about Vlog~MAS! Advent Stash Busting with Minies...