BIG BOX BARGAINS: SELF-STRIPING YARNS

Click "SHOW MORE" to fully open this information box, which includes links to everything I talked about in this video.
In this week's video I talk about a cute yarn shop I visited in Wisconsin and review an audiobook that I recently finished. Then we go into the classroom to find out about 7 budget-friendly yarns from the big box craft stores. These are self-striping yarn in worsted weight and DK weight. All are machine wash/dry and they're nice and soft. Let me know in the comment section below if you've used any of these yarns (or not) and what projects you made.
LINKS TO PRODUCTS SHOWN:
Firefly Fibers in Beaver Dam, WI: goo.gl/9u3qUB
Brooklyn Tweed Shelter yarn: goo.gl/kgfues
Julie Asselin Leizu yarn: goo.gl/XDc6HG
Knitting Notebook: goo.gl/N73KTg
Coco Knits Sweater Care Kit: goo.gl/89C3yU
Fringe Supply Field Bags: goo.gl/31zfGj
Bundle Up Betty Doll: goo.gl/N4Cr6p
Katrinkles Stitch Markers: goo.gl/d72Xwd
The Fortune Teller (book): goo.gl/xqjBPy
Caron Big Cake: goo.gl/ohJzjZ
Bernat Pop: goo.gl/5MCPhw
Yarn Bee Sugarwheel: goo.gl/7j1C5Z
Premier Yarns Sweet Roll: goo.gl/jmTg2s
Red Heart Unforgettable: goo.gl/PEfkmB
Lion Brand Mandala: goo.gl/J6Gx2s
Caron Yarns Cupcake: goo.gl/fhrDec
Ravelry: goo.gl/M2z96P
(If you are not already a member, you should definitely join--it's free.)
My Monkey (who's always peeking out from somewhere in the background in my videos) was made for me by my friend, Gail. She used this pattern: goo.gl/BaWF2W
SUPPORT THE SHOW: goo.gl/pCBHx6
My Etsy shop provides financial support for my KZbin channel. I don't accept paid sponsorships, so everything I review I purchase myself. Your patronage of my Etsy shop helps out with the expense of buying products to showcase and review on Ewe University. Thanks so much for your support of my channel.
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Kristine Kelly
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If you are passionately curious and never get tired of learning new things, new skills, new ideas...I hope you enjoy watching my videos and learn something. Have a sparkly day!

[@sandygrogg1203]

Thank you for addressing the kinds of yarns most of us use... I watch several podcasts, and get tired if the constant talk about high end yarns most people simply cannot afford. We have been made to feel like inferior Knitters and crocheters because we use big box yarns. Several big box brands sell beautiful yarns that are acrylic/ wool blends....even Red Heart has a line of 100 percent merino yarn... Chic Sheep.. And Lion Brand has several good options. Acrylic is nit a bad word. Not anymore... There are many beautiful choices that are nit only soft and pretty, but are affordable for the average Knitter. I use lots of acrylics in my charity knitting...and try to use the softest yarns available.. I avoid the stiff...scratchy ones. Love the wonderful self striping yarns. They make me happy... But I prefer the skeined ones...and there are a variety of yarns that shade and blend, For addressing this topic... Yay for you... I think that you can see by the large number if sample projects on Ravelry that these yarns are popular...and can be worked up into beautiful projects... Not everyone can afford natural fibers;...and we are tired of being made to feel guilty for shopping at big box stores. I once saw two mill owners...at a big event...sporting tattoos that said “Death before Acr6lics”. This made me see red.. Love your podcasts... ❤️❤️😎 Still having vision issues... Sorry fir typos..

[@carolynh3473]

I agree. I watch knitting podcasts a lot, and most seem to rave about the high end independent dyers' yarns, which not all of us can afford to use, let alone accumulate a hoard! However, some of the crocheter's podcasts seem to be unafraid to use acrylic yarns and such. Go figure.

[@jolenelarson469]

Sitting here with three colors of acrylic on my lap. Agree totally with what you wrote. I hate feeling inferior because I like to crochet and not knit, and because I like all types of yarn, not just wool.

[@sandygrogg1203]

Jolene Larson I Just wish podcadtors would show some if the beautiful things made from scrylucs and acryluc\wool blends. .We are often left with the impression that Real Knitters prefer natural fibers , .and yhat acrylic based prijectscarrvonly good enough for "around the house".. And any mention of crocheters id usually an obvious afterthought. However..You only have to take a good look at Ravrlery, and you will see that lots of regular knitters and cricketers do use acrylics and acrylic/wool blends.. I just get a little ticked off sometimes. Have to admit that when I quilt, I use quilt shop quality fabrics... Maybe.. But I don't think yarns and fabrics are the same..An acrylic hat will last as long...or longer than a wool one will..I have acrylic crocheted afghans that look new, after decades... Chesp fabrics will break down MUCH sooner than good ones....And they often fade and shrink.. I would love to buy some luxury yarn, but it isn't in my budget.. Although I do plan to try Msrly Birf's new 100% merino yarn..Chic Sheeo..by Red Heart.. $10.00 a skein.. Sorry to ramble on my soapbox! 💜💜😎

[@carolynh3473]

Jolene, there ARE quite a lot of crochet podcasts out there, and many prefer acrylics and use them exclusively. I've made several afghans with acrylic, especially Stylecraft DK, which I order from England. It's actually quite affordable even though it comes from England, and it's gorgeously soft and over 80 colours. The only acrylic I don't like is Red Heart, as it is too "plasticky" for my taste.

[@brittanyc2904]

I love watching podcasts so much but sometimes it’s too much, most of them just go on and on every episode about the high end yarn that’s $30 a skein. I’m happy for them that they can indulge in it and everyone works hard for their money they can spend it on what they please. It’s the feeling of inferiority that sucks, the podcasts only showcase the expensive yarns, they take part in the fun knit-alongs and talk about how much they love the sense of community with each other. Meanwhile they don’t see they are leaving us that can’t afford these options behind. All the great patterns call for the expensive yarns, part of me doesn’t mind and then another part of me is disappointed because I have to find suitable substitutes every time. Wish there was a sense of community for us that can’t afford to be part of theirs.

[@valeriehandmadewithheart]

I have used caron simply soft pretty much exclusively for about 15- 20 years. My children's baby blankets are as soft and vibrant as they were twenty years ago. The only change I have ever noticed was that the yarn grows. It doesn't pill or seem become any thinner as it stretches with time. I only caution this because fitted garments can loosen with time. The colors are sumptuous and Caron is always updating their colors. I also believe they are a no dye lot yarn which is very convenient. Simply soft has quickly become a favorite to every person I have ever recommended it to. I am very pleased that you are doing this series on less expensive yarns. I am a well versed in the fiber arts. I learned when I was a small child and haven't looked back. I cannot afford the more expensive yarns and a lot of the podcasts and the kals/cals or the mystery knits only recommended the more expensive yarns. People tend to look down on you for using commercial yarns. (At Least that has happened to me.) If we don't want the fiber arts to die out we need to encourage the new knitters crocheter weavers and other artists , not put them down because they aren't learning with expensive yarn. Every yarn has a project waiting for it.💖

[@mary-annlogan2797]

Valerie, I loved your comments! One thought that struck me about the yarn growing as it ages, that seems to be the human condition too sometimes so maybe those yarn makers should be applauded for letting folks and yarn age together lol

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Valerie -- thanks for your inspirational comment. I agree completely. Often times the recommended yarn doesn't have to be used in a given project. People might not know that they could use a less expensive yarn to make the same pattern. I think I will talk about yarn substitutions in a future video for that reason. Thank you for watching. ♥

[@sandygrogg1203]

Valerie Dunham Hi Valerie.. I totally agree with you.. Most regular knitters and crocheters cannot afford the high end yarns that are shown on most podcasts. I often wonder how people can afford all that expensive yarn..

[@jenniferannfox2316]

I have stashed 2 or 3 of these but yet to use them. They are truly very soft. I know alot of people do not knit acrylic or look down on it but I'm not. Right now my budget can't afford the 30.00 or more per skein of yarn store yarns. TBH these knitted up look no different for many patterns. And the washable factor makes it even more useful. i'm glad to hear your video on these box brands because so many are on budgets and like to knit.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Jennifer -- great to hear from you. I agree with everything you said. :) Thank you for watching. XO

[@Meadow414]

Thank you for talking about affordable yarn! It’s true what everyone is saying, we can feel a little left out for not being able to afford the nice expensive yarn.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed my video. Thanks for watching. XO

[@sandygrogg1203]

Meadow's Heart I agree!

[@carola.6990]

Yes, please do more videos on these yarns. Enjoy all your videos. Thank you for taking the time to do them.

[@crochetcomfort1654]

Thank you kristine. I don t knit much anymore, i mostly crochet. I luv lion brand and have made many garments from their heartland yarn. It washes and drys so nice. I 'm so happy to see all the interest in yarn craft these days. It amost seemed to die out for a few decades. It is such a valuable , productive and comforting pastime no matter what yarn we use. Jeannie

[@ellengymboss8062]

Definitely interested in more video and information about affordable yarns!

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Ellen -- I will. :)

[@lwiley3661]

Count me in among those who wish to see more comparisons of the "Big Box" yarns.This was an interesting video as all of yours are.

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Lynne -- I appreciate your comment. XO

[@dianescott3515]

Thank you for showing yarns from the “big box” stores. I live in a town with no local yarn shop, so for years I bought yarn at Joann’s and Michaels. I now buy yarn mostly online because I like natural fiber, but the acrylic yarns certainly have their place. I’ve seen all of these that you showed, and they really are nice and soft. Thanks again for sharing your review.

[@woolenbluebird]

Yes, do more shows. I think it makes a well rounded pod cast to cover all the yarns available. One reason to get the less expensive and washable yarns is this--teaching your kids how to knit. My daughter loves the caron cakes. And she can knit and knit and knit without breaking my budget.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Arianne -- yes, I agree completely. I love your idea. The kids will also enjoy seeing the color changes and that will motivate them to keep knitting. :)

[@megmccown4242]

Caron is my "go to" for anything for babies and kids because it needs to be soft, tough, and machine washable. The Caron cakes make the best baby blankets for shower gifts and with coupons I usually pick up a few at a time.

[@lorrie6736]

Yes! Definitely more shows! Thank you for all your hard work in making great shows!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Lorrie -- thank you so much. My Big Box Bargains series will continue this week. :)

[@sylviabryant9433]

I have used the Caron Cakes, the cupcakes, the Mandala and the sweet rolls. I love them all

[@knitonepugtwo4487]

I would love to hear about some more of the animal fibers occasionally available at the big box stars. And I am liking the Caron Cakes for a granny stripe blanket :-) The other advantage I've found is that if you have a relatively small project but want a lot of colors, you can cut them apart without buying several skeins.

[@LindaCBMediaGroup]

Knit One Pug Two, I agree with you about the different wools, and wool blends available at the big box stores. Some of them are very, very nice to work with.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello! Yes, I am actually doing a video showing some of these yarns, which will be posted to KZbin this week. Oooh, your striped blanket sounds wonderful. I also love your idea of how to use the striping yarn for smaller projects. Thanks for sharing. XO

[@susanwingblade1799]

Please keep doing more shows. They are always so interesting and you do topics that no one else does. I love your PC's!!!

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Susan -- always nice to hear from you. XO

[@FireflyFibers]

Thank you for the lovely review of our shop! Hope you enjoy your yarns - Shelter and Leizu are a couple of our favorites!

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks so much for your comment. I love your shop. XO

[@lanadutcher6896]

Yes please do more on the craft store yarns!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Lana -- thanks for your comment, and I will. :)

[@sarahhepworth]

Thank you for showcasing craft store yarns. Yes please to seeing more!

[@macolemarn]

Have to say I have seen these many times and never really considered using them for one reason or another. Showing all of the completed projects has completely made me reconsider their place in my “have to do” knitting list! Love all your videos-always have a takeaway or 2! Thank you for all your time and effort!

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- thanks so much for your comment. And thank you for watching. ♥

[@lcarlson1538]

Yes, please continue your series on yarn from the big box stores!i just found your podcast and find it delightful! I learn something from every episode and thoroughly enjoy learning about things I’ve always been curious about like silk. Your book reviews are great and I am making a list of your recommendations. So glad I have found you!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Laurie -- thanks so much. I will be doing more craft store yarn reviews in this week's video (and I did one last week on craft store sock yarn). I'm glad you are enjoying my videos. Thanks for watching. XO

[@maryhopepoole6870]

Love the way you showcase different options in your shows. I especially appreciate this episode and would love to hear more. - Thanks so much.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Mary -- thanks for your nice comment. I will be doing another video this week about craft store yarns, so watch for that. :)

[@sheliafrench1276]

Being elderly and on a fixed income and I just found crocheting six months ago I definitely will never be able to buy the high end yard even though it’s really beautiful and I wish that I could and living in Florida there’s no private yarn stores here in even if there was I could never afford it even though they’re so beautiful I love the multi colors and the speckled this because I love color bright colors pretty colors but I will always have to do Joannes Michael’s or hobby lobby I hope other people who have the high-end how know how blessed they are but I appreciate you doing this series it’s mostly appreciated thank you so much

[@marileabramer2115]

Yes, please do more shows on the big box craft store yarns! There are some gorgeous products that deserve to have the spotlight!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Marilea -- thank you; I will! XO

[@edejan]

I love all the yarns you've reviewed and have several in my stash waiting to be cast on. I've made a gorgeous shawl with Mandala in Gnome colorway, and a luscious hat with a Cupcake in Cherry ! Keep up the praise of affordable yarns!

[@joankline1435]

Yes, yes, yes. I would like to see more. Great review and examples made up. Thanks.

[@Lory_D]

Yes 👍🏼😊🙃 we want more videos on abordable yarns.....looking forward to see your results on those yarns. Thanks.

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Lory -- I will. ♥

[@carlaward1026]

Hi Kristine. I find your podcast very good, interesting and informative. Yes, I would like to see you talk more about these bargain yarns because it is very helpful for those who want to knit but can't afford animal fibers. Thank you very much. Carla

[@stephanienemetz8383]

I enjoyed your episode, yes please do more like this. There are so many pretty and inexpensive acrylic choices. It would be great to see some more of them.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Stephanie -- thanks, and I will. ♥

[@sharonspringett7276]

I was in Michael’s before Christmas and discovered Caron’s cupcakes. I loved them. They were even on sale so I bought 3 and knit 3 hats for my granddaughters. They turned out really cute. Since they are acrylic they are easy care for the Moms as well.

[@RoseAnneBoone]

I was thrilled to see this show as I have recently purchased the Mandala yarn in sphinx and was curious if others were using this and what they are making. I don't have access to a LYS in my area so I have to purchase most of my yarn either at Walmart or online. The thing I hate about purchasing online is that you can't feel the yarn and that is a big thing for me. I love to feel if it is squishy or if it feels hard and crinkly. I love that you are mentioning this in your podcast. Please do more of these podcast on affordable yarns that people like myself on a fixed income can afford, or folks who are just starting out and either can't afford or don't want to spend a fortune on projects they are trying out for the first time. Thank you so much for your insight, I really enjoy your shows.

[@rhondakehrberg7724]

Thank you for another very interesting podcast! I have used a lot of acrylic yarn over the years especially when I was crocheting afghans. I still have a few Lion brand homespun in the stash for future blankets. I find that now that I am knitting and not crocheting that when I make projects for myself I much prefer wool and wool blends. I guess I’ve become spoiled with the lovely texture and feel ( and the smell!) now that I have used it primarily for a couple of years. I used an older Caron Cake for a shawl that was for a Christmas gift and noticed my Caron cakes are 80%acrylic 20% wool so they must’ve switched over to all acrylic lately. I do like using acrylic and acrylic blends for baby items and large projects so it was really nice to see some of these products reviewed. Please do another video on these types of yarn.

[@terri-tn9858]

I do a lot of charity prayer shawls and love using caked yarns. My favorites are Lion Brand Mandala, Caron Cakes, and Premier Sweet Roll. I generally make crocheted virus shawls or granny triangle shawls, as well as a knitted Vortex shawl. These yarns work up beautifully and are so soft. Since they are for charity, the fact that they are acrylic, the recipient can machine wash and dry it easily.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Terri -- yes, I agree completely. There are so many great applications for easy care yarns. ♥

[@karencarss9482]

I love the Red Heart Unforgetable. It's the softest yarn I've ever used and I'm making a hat for myself out of the color Stained Glass. It's working up beautifully.

[@moniquelomax6721]

I've really been enjoying your series on yarns from big box stores, thank you so much!🤗

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Monique -- thanks for watching. ZO

[@shirleyknits123-7]

Dr. K you are the Queen. I absolutely lived what you showed and please show more. I love those yarns and bought a bedspread quantity to crochet a wedding gift.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Shirley -- thanks for your sweet comment. I would love to see that wedding gift when it's done! Stay tuned for more craft store yarn. :)

[@JustFluffyQuiltingYarnCrafts]

Thank you for sharing these affordable yarn options. I bought Caron Big Cakes when it first came out and haven’t been back to see the cute Cupcake yarns. Looking forward the continuation of this topic.

[@lyssamedana2224]

I'm from the UK and I'm desperately envious of your access to these yarns. You can get hold of some Lion Brand and Red Heart yarn, but it's comparatively expensive and we never get coupons for yarn over here. I take advantage of Red Heart's free patterns but have to convert them which can be risky. I'm currently knitting the free pattern Big Comfy Sweater from Red Heart's free patterns using Rockstar blue and gold yarn from yarnparadise in Turkey as I sit in my Yorkshire study watching a podcast from the USA. I'm sure I'm not the only viewer who's counting the pennies so it's great to see ideas/reviews for less expensive yarn. I'm not affiliated with yarnparadise, but I find that they do cheap and weird yarn and are reasonable with delivery. Thank you for your amazing videos. I've only just discovered them and I'm enjoying them a great deal. I love that you do all the links as well. I look forward to watching more. LM x

[@sarabrunton62]

I'm from the UK too, I get my RH Unforgettable from Wool Warehouse :-)

[@lyssamedana2224]

Thanks - I shall have a look.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Lyssa -- thank you so much. I hope you have good luck with Wool Warehouse! ♥

[@joannemotta5756]

Thank you for your ever informative and soul confirming videos. I find it so reassuring that someone as bright as you is interested in the same things as I am. The more I explore the fiberworld today, the more I find that there is no mold. So glad that I have the opportunity to practice a craft that has so much support today through internet learning as well as all the other forms from days past. I have often thought about exploring the less expensive yarns found in the big box stores as opposed to LYS. I am a pattern first kind of yarn shopper. I don't have an enormous stash. I prefer picking project first, then finding fiber. It is just too easy to fall in love with what I see on the shelves, so I don't dare do the reverse. Thanks again.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Joanne -- so happy to read your nice comment. If you did the reverse, you'd end up like me, haha! Thank you so much for watching. XO

[@deniseboucher8606]

Yes please continue. I can only afford "BIG BOX YARN", love them.

[@FrancesSiple]

Great topic! I love using acrylic yarn in my projects. Keeping the projects affordable is important to me. I have used self striping sock yarn but now I am looking forward to trying out these heavier weights! Thanks for sharing!

[@dawnoverholt6877]

I bought Lion Brand Mandala for my granddaughter's (11 years old) knitted project when she came to visit during the Christmas holiday. She used my Addi circular knitting machine (small) and made a long scarf using up all the yarn. I added pom poms to both ends. She had fun wrapping the scarf around herself. I usually buy a brightly colored acrylic yarn for her visits.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Dawn -- what a great idea! I can't even imagine how much fun she had. :)

[@pattycrochets2559]

Yes I have used yarns from the big box stores. As a charity and amigurumi crocheter I use a lot of acrylic yarn. So please continue to review these types of yarns and show crochet items made from them!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Patty -- thanks for your enthusiastic comment. :) I will definitely be reviewing more craft store yarns, although I don't crochet so won't be showing any of my own crocheted projects. I'll try to find some examples that other people made, though. :)

[@tinarippy5865]

Loved seeing all the projects. Thanks for the inspiration. Yes I have the Caron cakes and planned to make a small Afghan for a friend who may want easy care.

[@deannacaldwell7957]

Thanks for the great informative video. I love Unforgettable yarn! I have made several crochet Virus shawls with it. I also love the Caron cakes. They are so great at color combos. I appreciate you showing the more cost effective fibers. I love a great merino as much as the next girl, but cannot always afford it. Yes, I would like to see more comparisons for big box yarn.

[@SuperWhyaduck]

Thanks Kelly! Loved the podcast! I would definitely love to see more. You are always so helpful and pedagogical!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Rose -- thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed the video, and I will be doing another one this week. XO

[@joanoltman3555]

Hi Kristine - I think this was a great subject to explore. I love the natural fibers but sometimes want to make gifts for people that I know would not take the time or have the time to hand wash and dry so the gift would be ruined. This gave some beautiful options. I also liked the price! I think more of this would be fabulous. Thank you for taking the time to explore these options and sharing them with us.

[@mary-annesmith8850]

A friend of mine knit a Shawl with one and was disappointed with the knots and breaks, Caron cake

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Joan -- I agree that a lot of people want easy, machine washable items. In this week's video I talked about sock yarns from the craft stores, and next week I'll do one more about craft store yarns. :) Thanks for watching. ♥

[@EweUniversity]

Yes, that's definitely an issue with less expensive yarns. Thanks for sharing.

[@tamaram200]

You are nice! I am enjoying your videos very much! I am a former yarn snob who has been swept up in the new acrylic movement. These new craft store yarns are wonderful and I am even getting my friends try them.

[@maryellenkinkel8525]

Just found your vlog. I was curious of your review of big box yarns. I don’t know that I have felt inferior, but I do get tired of hearing only about high end yarn that I simply cannot afford. Thanks for looking into the big box yarns and for being open to the possibility that they’re not bad yarn. I look forward to watching some of your other videos. Keep up the good work. Thanks from all of us Who don’t think red heart is a derogatory term

[@betseyfowler2625]

Yes, I have used the striped yarn from Michaels. I was given a cake for Christmas last year that was denim blues. I wanted to make a shawl, just to keep my shoulders warm. I choose the modified Jay walker pattern where you add a row of yarn overs when you are changing color. Pretty cool trick. I still have another cake. I was thinking that baby blanket that forms a square with the eyelets in the corners. I've always wanted to knit that one. Please continue with the big box stores bargain yarns. I like acrylic for knitting baby blankets and prayer shawls.

[@juanitabridges6808]

Like that you show a variety of different types of yarn. I love the big box yarns for machine washable items. My favorite ones are the chunky ones such as Bernat blanket for super soft baby blankets.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Juanita -- thanks so much for watching and for your comment. I have used Bernat Blanket for a baby blanket, too. XO

[@carolynh3473]

Nice to see acrylics featured! Acrylics have come a long way in the past decade. I bought my first Mandala cake because the colours were so lovely, and intend to make a shawl from it.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Carolyn -- I agree with you. Thanks so much for watching. XO

[@paulawilkerson4718]

Great episode! I do a lot of charity knitting and it's nice to use inexpensive but soft yarn. This encourages me to try some yarns.

[@janetpingrey7155]

Thank you for reviewing these yarns. I have to drive an hour or more in any direction to get to any small, local shops and usually cannot afford more than a skein or two, but I do have a Michael's locally that usually has a great selection of many types of affordable yarns. I love, love, love 'Unforgettable' yarns. Made several infinity scarves for Christmas gifts this year and am working on a Virus shawl in the Sunrise colorway at the moment. I have also used Mandala cakes for shawls. Thanks again for your comments about each yarn.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Janet -- so nice to hear your lovely comment. I really like your project ideas for these yarns. Thanks so much for watching. XO

[@vonniejohnson9711]

This was great. I will have to visit the big box stores. It’s been a while. I didn’t know they had self striping at such reasonable prices. Thanks for the review.

[@juanitabridges6808]

The Caron cupcake with Pom Pom makes a great gift for a new knitter or crocheter. I’ve bought several for teenagers learning the craft.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Juanita -- love this idea! ♥

[@nancyweber3618]

Enjoyed your podcast on big box yarns. Although I do love my local yarn shop and order from indie dyers online, I also shop at Michaels for yarn. I have used some of the Caron self striping yarns for cowls and ponchos for toddlers. I also have used some of the Lion Brand yarns for felting. They certainly can make for a more affordable knit project! I will definitely continue watching. Thank you.

[@nadiaverbeeck6109]

What wonderful names ; Beaverdam, Firefly Fibers ... so Fairytale-ish ! ❤️ I am intruiged by the book as well, too bad the ending has thrown me off a bit now... I also whish we had a "Michaels, Joanne's and Hobby Lobby" you guys really do have it all !

[@lienalibby5403]

This was great! Yes, do more! I have used the cupcakes yarn and got 2 child hats out of one ball. I've been wanting to make a dk weight sweater, and I just might use one of these now!

[@chi2cali]

You always do such a wonderful job Kristine! I had not seen a cake with a coordinating pompom before, so that was fun. I little tip about using the Red Heart Unforgettable yarn - use it on projects in which you are confident. Frogging it is a nightmare! I LOVE the colorways of Unforgettable but I have stopped working with it because it knots onto itself so easily and you have to literally rip the fibers apart to make corrections. I guess that is good for not having the project unravel. LOL! When it comes to finding affordable yarns, I have been interested in finding sweaters of wonderful fibers at resell shops, taking them apart, and repurposing the yarn. Maybe another topic idea?

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Tashia -- always great to hear from you. Thank you so much. ♥ Yes, I heard the same thing about the Unforgettable yarn from others. I'm not too surprised about that, though, as it seems pretty loosely spun and has quite a halo on it. So I can see where it could easily get tangled into itself. Thanks for the suggestion, too -- I added it to my list for a future video. XO

[@patsycoats4061]

Yes, please review more of the big box store yarn.

[@jeaninegunn4118]

Yes, please do more shows. Also - how about a show on the fancy yarns (eyelash, loopy, fabric like for curly scarves etc) and what they are composed of?

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Jeanine -- I'll be doing another one this week. :) Also, thank you for the suggestion. I will add it to my list for a future video. XO

[@ashimade]

I would surely love to see and watch your discussion on the yarns you bought. This video too was very interesting. Cheers!

[@joysvegandiner]

Loved your show. I am on a fixed income and your show has me excited to do affordable gift knitting. Please do more shows!

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- I definitely will. Thanks so much for watching and for your comment. XO

[@cherylkrueger6924]

I discovered Firefly in Beaver Dam last summer on the WI yarn crawl, and agree it is a really, really nice store. Wish I lived closer to it. Looking forward to your new videos. Thanks.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Cheryl -- so nice to hear from you. Are you in Wisconsin? We are practically neighbors! I wish I lived closer to Firefly Fibers, too -- love that store. Thank you for watching. XO

[@pricci803]

Firefly Fibres is about an hour drive for me. I am so glad you were able to visit it. I, too, always find something that I haven’t been able to see anywhere else. Always come away inspired to try something new.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- we are practically neighbors! :)

[@Skywalker67897]

Hey Kristine, thanks for another wonderfully informative video! These are truly beautiful yarns and I'm glad to see they're reasonably priced. I would definitely give them a look and perhaps purchase some. Looking forward to seeing more videos discussing this subject. 😁😁😁

[@EweUniversity]

Hello (love your double helix avatar)! Thank you, and I will be continuing this series in my next video. XO

[@sandygrogg1203]

Watching again....5:30am.. With that all important first cuppa coffee.. AND.. I’m knitting a soft chemo cap with the gorgeous Mandsla Thunderbird.. Got the idea from you, in another video.. I was surprised that the yarn was acDK weight..I usually work with worsted weight yarns.. except for baby hats.. It’s slower, but the fabric (ChaiGooo US 6) is so nice... I plan to use the whole cake for chemo hats.. This one is a simple rolllrd brim, but I will be doing the lace one you showed.. It’s so pretty.. Again..Thank you for doing this series.. We have a nice LYS, but I cannot afford luxury yarns.. Besides nearly all of my knitting is for charity.. AND...?The new acrylics are both beautiful and very soft..not to mention easy care... 💜💜😎

[@aprilsawyer2884]

Yes I enjoyed the big box yarn review. I have made crochet granny pouchos and love them.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi April -- good to hear about your experiences with this yarn. I'll be doing another video this week about other craft store yarns, so keep an eye out for that. ♥

[@lindadean3559]

Thank you so much for the yarn review. I have used Caron cakes for making several shawls for Christmas gifts and all the recipients loved the colors. I only knit and crochet from the big box stores yarn as I am on a fixed income. Please do more on the other yarns offered by these stores.

[@MsKinderscout]

Currently, I have Red Heart Unforgettable in line for a shawl project. This is not the first time I've used it. Because of the loose ply, it will fuzz easily. So, fingers crossed I won't make a lot of mistakes. Thank you for this review, Kristine! My yarn snob tendencies have been tweaked down a notch!!

[@karentruscelli5708]

Kristine, Love, Love, Love the knowledge I am able to learn from you.. Thank You so much. I do knit with fine yarn from my local yarn shop for most of the items I make, but there are a few items I make also that I use acrylic for practical reasons. I keep seeing these self striping yarns at the BB Stores and like the colors but have never came up with anything I wanted to make with them. I have never liked stripes, but after watching your video I am running to Michaels because I loved the look of the stripes in the asymmetrical triangular shawls.....Thank you for your valuable information you are passing on..

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Karen -- I know, I wish I could knit faster so I could make all the things right now! :) I'm really glad to hear that you found some inspiration in the projects made from these yarns. I did, too. Thank you for watching and for your kind comment. XO

[@dazydook4099]

I really loved this episode on value yarns.

[@belbubs]

Yes! Please continue this series!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Cassandra -- I will. XO

[@Dinahflo1]

Wow Kristine! This was a very helpful podcast( yours always are tho).I am limited to Hobby Lobby and Walmart for yarn purchases, as we do not have a local yarn shop nearby.I have seen the cakes of yarn but steered clear of them because it was hard to imagine how they would look in a project.I liked every photo you included in your podcasts! There were some lovely projects, and you have changed my mind about using a caked yarn. Can't wait to get back to town and I am going to Ravelry in the meantime to hunt for a few of the beautiful shawls you selected to show us. It was so helpful to see how the yarn worked up in a project! Yay for Hobby Lobby, they have some pretty yarns!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Diane -- so nice to hear from you! Glad that you enjoyed this episode, and I can't wait to hear about your new yarn adventures. :)

[@myChellieanne]

I recently knit a shawl with mandala and was pleasantly surprised by this yarn. I knit baby and children’s garments and I’m always looking for easy care yarns. Would love to see more shows on this type of yarn.

[@kriskrumanaker4315]

Hi. I've used the Caron Cakes yarn to crochet a granny square oversized shrug. One big granny square with added neck band and cuffs. I wish I could upload a picture here. But you remind me that I do have a ravelry page and I should update it with this project. I really liked working with the yarn, however I did do a little selective use of the stripes to balance the colors, and I find the yarn just a tad bit scratchy. But for the shrug it works just fine and it is VERY warm and snuggly. Good review. I think acrylic yarns are better now than back in the 60s and 70s when my mom was knitting with them. They make them in so many different textures and can be much softer now. Some are like cotton. I have not used any of the other brands of cakes you mentioned; it was interesting to realize how many there are. I would expect the Yarn Bee brand to be the softest--they seem to make very soft yarns. I work at Michaels as a knit/crochet instructor so all my yarn is from there (and free!) and I never get to Hobby Lobby though there are two in my town. Good review. Thanks.

[@marysarahbrady7769]

Hi Kristine, Fun show! The acrylic yarns have come a long way, haven't they? I've used the Red Heart Unforgettable for scarves, but haven't tried the others yet. The Caron Cupcake is adorable. I think I'll be shopping this weekend. The book you mentioned sounds like a fun read. I'm anxious to check it out too. And yes, please continue with Big Box yarn reviews. Thanks!!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Mary Sarah -- yes, you are so right. I'm continuing my Big Box Bargains series this week. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. XO

[@cherylespinks5482]

Your sessions are always so informative. My interest is more on crochet than knit items although I have made some knitted items. I would like to see some crocheted items showcased during your sessions. Keep up the good work keeping yarn crafters up to date!

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Cheryle -- I'm not a crocheter, but I try to include some crochet projects when I come across them. :)

[@mamaacres]

Yes please share more about the big box yarns! Which is what I have always used but still enjoy hearing what you have to say about them! I am currently using Mandala in the color way centaur, for the pattern, I'm making the Warlock Wrap by Salena Bacca you can find it on Ravelry.

[@prudenceniedzwiecki8544]

Yes more shows!

[@sandrapinkerton8058]

I used the Unforgettable Dragonfly in an Irish mesh cowl. It is beautiful. I used the leftovers to stripe another irish mesh cowl.

[@cynthianobara4153]

Yes. More yarn reviews!

[@muhlenstedt]

I liked it very much and was surprised how beautiful these yarns are.Please continue with the theme.Thank you!

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- so glad to hear that. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment. XO

[@PayneSharon]

Love your podcast. I have used the Caron stripping yarn that contains 20 % wool and I love how it knits up. The colors are beautiful and it knits up quickly. Made shawls for my daughters and grand daughters this Christmas and they loved them. I would like for you to feature Blocking materials used for blocking shawls, sweaters and other knitting projects. Even a comparison of what is available out there that is the best to use. Also the soaks and or washes to use that are the best, I trust your educations findings and personal opinions. Love the creativity that you share and also your knowledge. Have another great year. Thank you very much.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Sharon -- thanks for your kind comment. I'm sure the shawls you made for gifts turned out awesome. It's good to hear about your experiences. I actually did a show last year about blocking, which I'll link here if you want to check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2SXoaeCprB0aLs. I also did a test of the effectiveness of different wool washes in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5jGg3pqibWBsMU. If you have any other questions, let me know. Thanks for watching! XO

[@thistleandhive]

You've done it again! You're becoming one of my go-to resources for all fiber questions! I had a custom request for an acrylic scarf - and I don't usually use acrylic so I wasn't sure where to start ! Thanks for the help:)

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Evelyn -- thank you, and I'm glad you found the information to be helpful. ♥♥♥

[@carroleemayhugh4357]

Thank you for book review on "The Fortune Teller"! As a professional astrologer and tarot reader it sounds like a good read! Your demo on "cake" yarns helps me in my next fun selfish project! Ready for a crescent shawl. Thanks again and keep up the good work!

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Carolee -- glad to hear it. Thanks so much for watching. ♥

[@loreleifrank2749]

Yes I really enjoyed your podcast on the striped yarn. I would like to see more. Thanks.

[@cisheller6683]

This video was so informative. Like the other comments, I cannot afford to make everything from the high-end or independent yarn store, and do not have a LYS close by. I have got some Expression Fiber Arts yarn in my stash waiting to find that 'perfect pattern' to make with this exquisite yarn. But mostly I do use yarn from the big box store. I love the RH Unforgettable but haven't used it yet. But I do believe all of these are on my next to purchase list. Thank you for this informative video.

[@gailferrara1185]

Yes I would love to see more of your videos on the big box stores and I did buy some the cakes and made shawls and the unforgettable yarn I made a sweater and a baby marmaid sack for a baby gift also just wanted to say that I love ❤️ all your videos

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks so much, Gail. ♥♥♥

[@juliebute905]

I love knitting with the Red Heart Unforgettable. I have made cowls and it’s fabulous!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Julie -- thanks; that is good to know. :)

[@maryvanhouten6712]

I have use all the ones you talk about. I shop mostly at Jo Ann and Michals and Walmart. I have made with sweet roll and Caron cakes Scaife fingerless gloves hats and Afghan

[@marydaze4688]

I have used the Caron yarns for baby blankets. Love them. I would love for you to do more big box store reviews.

[@sarabrunton62]

I have used the Red Heart Unforgettable many times for crocheted shawls, and it works up really nicely. However, the yarn can vary in thickness, and the thicker, fluffier areas can be a little bit delicate and pull apart quite easily. This is perhaps not such a huge problem for crochet, but may be more of an issue for knitting. Once made up the shawls seem pretty durable though.

[@jolenelarson469]

Sara Brunton I love it too and made a shawl out of it. It's a mess to frog if you make a mistake but other than that, the colors are beautiful.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Sara -- yes, I agree it is underspun, which is what makes it soft. But it can also make the yarn quite fragile. This is good information for people to know -- thanks for sharing. ♥

[@cw8011]

Hi Kristine. Thank you for another wonderful and informative podcast. It was so good to see affordable yarn showcased and not the high-end yarns that most podcasts highlight, as you mentioned. I have not used the cake yarns, but have used Big Box store yarns. Thanks for showing all the lovely garments/projects. The shawls were amazing and have certainly piqued my curiosity about the cake yarns. All yarns should be respected for their attributes and characteristics. (I do know we're talking about yarn here) Use whatever yarn you love/like and what you can afford. If a finished garment/project puts a smile on somebody's face, including your own, then it was worth whatever it cost.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello, and thank you so much. I agree with you 100%. So nice to hear from you, and thanks for watching. XO

[@donnawelch3548]

The Caron Cakes are 80% acrylic and 20% wool. They make beautiful cozy blankets. Washable and dryable.I enjoy your podcasts. Thank you.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Donna -- yes, the regular Caron Cakes are acrylic/wool but the Big Cakes that I got are 100% acrylic. I'm not sure why that is, probably because of the cost of wool vs. acrylic. Your blankets sound so cuddly. Thanks so much for watching. XO

[@sabrinasearsy1538]

I’ve used every one of these except the Hobby Lobby and Bernal Pop. I was a little disappointed that you didn’t include the original Caron Cake yarn, as it’s one of a few, slowly expanding, yarns to include some wool with the acrylic. I really like the effect, less pilling, more squish and still washable. Yes, do more on big box store yarns! Since I’ve become a spinner I love natural fibers much more, and luckily am at a point where I can afford a few high end yarns/fibers, but I started with and still appreciate and use the many Big Box yarns that are available. There is much more variety in weights, style, fibers, and even plies these days than just a few years ago! I’ve been excited to see more yarns come out that have at least a small amount of natural fibers like wool, silk, and even alpaca. Also the companies are finally coming out with more weights than just worsted or lighter weights in only baby colors. For those with more knitting/crochet mojo than money these yarns can mean the difference between making or not making! And it’s always fun to see the things you actually use most highlighted in a podcast. 😀

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Sabrina -- good to hear from you. I will be reviewing some more craft store yarns this week, and most of them have some wool or other natural fiber in them. Last week I did a video on craft store sock yarns, some with wool. So yes, I am happy that the commercial yarn companies are expanding their variety. I know that the original Caron Cakes were an acrylic/wool blend, but the Big Cakes that I got are 100% acrylic. Not sure why the difference. Anyway, thanks for watching. XO

[@brandistoker]

Would love more videos on bargain yarn. Thanks for your interesting videos.

[@EweUniversity]

Thanks, Brandi -- I'll be doing another one this week. :)

[@karensorrentino9498]

Great comparative review. I appreciate the work you put into your podcast, especially the photos you insert from Ravelry. I have not used any of the featured yarns and am not likely at this time. For future Big Box yarn reviews, I’d appreciate a look at the wool and wool blend yarns. I’ve bought several Lion Brand for socks and have been very pleased. I once bought a 1000% wool (cant remember the brand) and it was so gamey smelling (especially when wet) that I had to get rid of it. Thanks for your time and educational podcasts!

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Karen -- thank you so much. I'm actually doing a video this week which will have some wool (and other natural fibers) in the yarn. Last week's video was about sock yarn from the craft stores, and several of those were wool blends as well. Yes, I think you have to find the right yarn that works for you. There were many that I looked at and squished but left in the store because I didn't like something about them. :) Thanks for watching and for your comment. XO

[@musicmakraj]

I have used the Lion Brand Mandala, Caron Cupcakes, and even the regular Caron cakes. The coincidence is we have the exact same colors! I like the Caron cake the most because it was softer than the other two. Mandala is thinner compared to Cupcakes. But they are all amazing!

[@chrisb5391]

I love this video! I often see the big box stores with these yarns and had no clue about using them. Thank you for sharing and I would definitely like to see more.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Chris -- thanks so much. I'll be doing a video this week on some other craft store yarns, so stay tuned. :)