FIBER Favorites & CRAFTING Goals🌟🧶conquering challenges one stitch at a time | sit & knit series

[@Emily-1979]

I love your videos because it feels like hanging out with a friend. You seem genuine, and like you’re not trying to be an influencer or promote/sell anything. You give your honest opinion whether it’s positive or negative and talk it through, same as chatting with my friends at knit night.

[@alisavanrooyen1030]

Your explanation for tweed was great!

[@heidishaw1118]

I love your channel because you are not trying to sell stuff as an “influencer “. You are just doing your thing.

[@cynthiaspear-duncan7661]

YES

[@abgates56]

I love your channel because I love knitting, but mostly because you are a kind, sweet and gentle person. Your voice and manners are soothing. We need more of that in these difficult times. Thank you!

[@ccbb8115]

the thing i find different about your videos is your energy. you come off as so gentle, calm, and earnest. a lot of creators are super high energy, which is great in its own ways, but sometimes i just want to unwind with someone who feels like a laid back friend. you also don't seem to be overly caught up in the commercial side of craft. you purchase the yarn you want to because you want to, and the patterns you want to, and give a lot of love to designers from across the board rather than just focusing on one or two very popular ones. your videos feel less like _"content"_ and more like... well, videos. there's also a lot of judgment, i find, in a lot of craft spaces. but your space of the internet feels so calm and so free of judgment.

[@MakerMarkKnits]

I really appreciate that feedback! Thank you for taking the time to watch my videos and to interact through your comment 🙂

[@spinningloft]

Hi Mark, another great episode and well worth watching. I guess we should stop calling these podcasts, but KZbin channel "episodes" instead? Yes, your content is "different", and I agree with all the complimentary things people right here are saying. They certainly love it. Your content is delightful, easy to listen to, informative, entertaining and there's a real sense of community here. Thanks for your vulnerability and confidence at the same time. Giggling, showing frustration etc. And FYI, some of us also read every single comment, and it does take a while, so you're not alone!

[@ginninadances]

I grew up in Tucson. Spring winds are vicious. I see a podcast as something you can listen to on my drive to work. It feels like I'm sitting and you are finessing with me. It also doesn't feel fake or structured. You are just being you and not faking your energy. It's relaxing.

[@violetwindsong]

Totally agree with the use of the word podcast for a very visual video; weird. Love listening to and watching your videos. As many have stated, I feel as though we’re friends. Additionally, your voice is very soothing. I’m amazed that you can knit without looking. Your sweaters are beautiful! I am shawl-obsessed & prefer fingering weight non-SW merino. I love Tosh Merino Light, and many Indie dyers. I’m obsessed with color & am drawn to variegated yarns even though they’re not always ideal for a lacy shawl! I always use lifelines but will try to fix an error without ripping back. To that end I place markers every few repeats & do a lot of counting (I used to love counted cross stitch).

[@pippade-negri8111]

I love your honesty Mark. You also cover exactly what you want to, whereas I sometimes feel other channels can all repeat the same yarns or patterns that are currently popular on Ravelry. You come across as so authentic and open, and regularly acknowledge the negative feedback that KZbin channels get, which is very honest. I wish the negative people would just toddle off elsewhere because I find it incredible that anyone would purposely watch a channel with the sole purpose of being snarky! Especially the intensely personal criticism of your emotions! It’s beyond rude and nasty and completely unnecessary! I wonder if these people are in need of more kindness in their own lives? My favourite yarn of late is Falkland Islands wool that I recently discovered via a lovely yarn seller on eBay. It was toothy but incredibly soft next to skin, and I would love to find more (the seller had a limited supply which I bought). I have a deep love of pure alpaca as someone who can’t tolerate mohair, despite its tendency to pill. I favour predominantly hand dyed yarn or yarns from independent suppliers, but also very fond of Rico extra fine merino in both DK and Aran weight, has fabulous stitch definition and washes beautifully. All the love, Pippa xxx

[@JaneScully]

Hi Mark ... I am a newish knitter and I do enjoy watching all different forms of knitting podcast but your "podcasts" are different - and that is a good thing. Most knitting podcasts follow a formula - "what I am wearing", WIPs, FOs, and acquisitions. You, on the other hand, have a variety of information - from where to buy yarn to why you like a certain product. Your relaxing manner, quiet voice, and positive manner are all reasons why I watch and listen. Thanks, Mark

[@anngladstone9130]

If I had to pick a favorite fiber, I would say silk. I love the sheen, softness, and how it works well blended with wool. I live in Florida, so most of my stash is fingering weight or lighter. As far as a favorite brand, I'll go with Miss Babs. She has a huge catalog of amazing colorways in various weights and fibers. As others have mentioned below, watching your videos is like sitting down with an old friend. I haven't been to Tucson, but I've been to Phoenix several times. Such a beautiful part of the country!

[@stefaniejacobs4041]

Dear Mark, you have excellent content and it is videos not podcasts. Your voice is very soothing and sometimes I put in my earphones and lay on my bed listening to you. You bring peace to my busy mind. And the bonus is you are soft on the eyes and very good looking - Ned can be very proud. Keep on being unique..... please Stef

[@amys3168]

I mainly use cotton. I do not like anything scratchy. I’ve been around some lovely wool, but it’s easier to get cotton that’s not scratchy. Oh, and I only crochet. My lys only likes knitters, so I don’t shop there. Actually, for the eclipse, I went to the Akron zoo. And I looked for yarn stores en route and the only one I could get to while it was still open was long tail knits just south of you. She was lovely and was great to talk to about crafting.

[@bronwynwatson271]

Your you tube feels like old school you tube to me. I think it’s because it doesn’t feel as scripted as most you tube channels feel now. I am getting back into knitting after a 15 year break. Falling in love with all the different yarns I am learning about online. Thanks for the ramble. It was lovely to have you on while I had my morning tea and eased into my day.

[@Kim_Karr]

So glad you did put the video up - I thoroughly enjoyed it. The view behind you was stunning! I think maybe the comments about your channel being different could be that you are so natural and at ease. You don’t fumble and stumble around with words and you seem to have a ‘plan’ for your episode. I’ve only seen you twice, but you are now up at the top of my subscriber list. Continue enjoying what you do - it works!

[@patriciacrellin1744]

I love your podcast/ KZbin channel. I like your originality and authenticity. You do produce " different " episodes, mainly because of the different content involved, whilst your unique style is the constant. I cried like a baby over your wedding episode and your secret knitting for your husband; so special! I prefer the woolly wools such as John Arbon, Woolyknit and Jamieson and Smith. I do also like hand dyed sock yarn as I knit many socks as gifts. I bought some Fiber Hustle yarn for Christmas and that is just amazing!( plus it matches a spectacular basket from the same company). I cannot sing a note. I am the person who just mimes all the hymns at mass, so it is so lovely to hear people who really know how to sing perfectly. I am looking forward to watching your next episode and let us know if you need any questions for your Q&A show.

[@teresahammett2200]

Love your content. You have a great voice, gentle manner, good mix of personal and knitting. Love your projects and your discussion of what is working and what you had a struggle with. Thanks for sharing!

[@maureencatmom7844]

Oh my gosh the background on this video was incredible!!! Tucson fading into the sunset ,gorgeous Your videos are great always something different for instance :building your new craft room, knitting on the beach, your wedding discussion of patterns and so on not your usual “look at me I’m fantastic” type of video. Your voice is soothing and mellow. Anyhow you’re different and it is a compliment. I like all yarn,even acrylics. Oh dear I hope you don’t hate me now. 😮

[@carriewilliame9802]

First time commenter and newish knitter with not a lot of knowledge. I really enjoy everything about your channel. Your voice is soothing, your knowledge incredible and your statement about it being judgement free is great. I also like that you aren’t trying to be an influencer who finds the need to sell everything you come across. So tired of that and also of the amount of criticism you and others receive. People seem so hard on each other these days and it’s just sad. Keep up the great content and I’ll keep watching

[@kmhoneycutt1551]

I love tonals and tweeds because it adds character to my work

[@alanarudder3169]

I LOVE these types of videos from you. I can just spend time with a friend while crafting. And, please ignore people who are criticizing you about your passion for your craft. That’s just a ridiculous thing to do.

[@ACG321]

I have not commented in the past, but I feel like I’m sitting down with a friend and just having a conversation when I watch your videos. I think that’s how you are different than most others. Most are either trying to teach us something or trying to sell us something. Your voice is soothing and I feel like I’m catching up with a friend when I’m watching your videos.

[@lizreed8081]

Hi Mark, it’s Beth. I enjoyed seeing you wear your Halibut sweater. I’m originally from Minnesota and so many people I know who still live there are always sharing photos of themselves with fish they’ve caught in the many “10,000 Lakes” -your sweater makes me smile for similar reasons 🙂. Do I have a favorite yarn? Not yet, though I’ve went through phases. I loved the Icelandic yarns-Alafosslopi Lettlopi and more recently Plötulopi -however, the unspun Plötulopi seems to have more allergens for me, so even though I thought I’d found my favorite yarn, probably need to use caution and not use it. I also love the colors in the sock yarn company from Germany-Opal , but not exactly thrilled about the plastic content. I think my favorite thing about yarn is the area it comes from… my longing to travel perhaps. Nice podcast, thanks

[@Koroblin]

I like your videos your a fresh face, they are not many men who make videos about fiber arts and it makes me feel more welcomed.

[@maryschartner4428]

Mark! I saw and heard you sing on KZbin ( I think)You blew me away! What a voice. You should sing once in a while for us. Just wonderful. Bravo!

[@Valentina-km8cg]

I'm one of those who commented on your "different" style and watch quite a few knitting podcasts so I'll explain what I meant. Almost always the podcasters follow a very "cast in stone" format. It begins with "what I'm wearing" and goes down the familiar path of f/o's, wip's, "dream knitting", acquisitions. Some talk about their personal lives, others don't. I prefer that they do. Others throw in short segments of things you cover but rarely does it become an entire episode. Keep doin' what'cher doin! We like it! I almost exclusively knit with natural fibers. No particular brands.

[@jeandekeyser6262]

Thank you for sharing the chance to watch night fall across the desert! Lovely!

[@heatherboone3066]

My favorite fiber - SO hard to narrow it down, but ANY yarn from McMullin Fiber Co. is my happy-place. I discovered this yarn at the NC Fiber Festival, SUCH beautiful yarn.

[@carmenlessard4925]

I like that you have been showing us the places where you are when you are on the road. I'm in Maine, and the spring weather has just arrived! Your mic was fine, and I think that I saw some twinkling lights in the background! You are very talented!

[@angelagenx6629]

I think it’s a knitting video thing to call them podcasts, I don’t know why, but it’s just something that has caught on from several creators. I’m in the camp that if a creator is demonstrating their knitting, showing finished projects, WIPs, or inserting images of examples of patterns, then it’s something that needs to be watched, not just listened to, it isn’t a podcast. As for yarn, I really haven’t found my holy grail yarn yet. I’m still diving into the world of higher quality yarns and wanting to experience as many as I can. I knit a pair of gloves out of Malabrigo worsted, which is a single ply, not what I would consider worsted, maybe more of a light DK and they turned out beautifully. I loved that yarn! It was so soft and I was so happy when I was knitting that project. Not the best yarn for gloves, but I don’t care, they make me smile when I wear them and that’s what matters.

[@Paula-tf3zv]

Hi, Mark. I live in Tucson and am delighted you're here! I am knitting along with you, looking across the wash at the Catalinas. I like your videos because you have a soothing voice and presence. Its like sitting in a good friend's family room having an interesting conversation. Thank you for that! I learn a lot, which is always a good thing. My favorite yarns/fabrics are silk, bamboo, and alpaca. I'm teaching myself Tunisian crochet (because it looks a lot like knitting!) I love settling in to your channel. A Fan from Tucson

[@CozyHermitageCraftRoom]

I enjoy your podcast. I don’t know the correct definition of podcast is but it fits in with other channels I watch that call what they do a podcast. I don’t know what to call what I do on my channel either. Years ago I bought some expensive yarn, I liked to color. But when I got it home and started to knit with it, it freaked me out because it was vastly different thicknesses. It went from say, sock yarn up to super bulky and everything in between. I couldn’t knit with it being a brand new knitter at that time. Frogged what I had started with it and displayed the ball of yarn. It is pretty. Now though I feel a little more comfortable with my knitting so it’s possible that I may pick it up again at some point for something like a shawl which I think would work well for this yarn. Thank you, John from the Cozy Hermitage Craft Room.

[@thizizliz]

I love a lot of yarns but am not particularly well educated about them. One of the yarns I've enjoyed most (for the fabric it makes) is malabrigo. It also feels good in my hands while knitting. It was really lovely seeing the sky darken behind you. Very pretty.

[@BostonMelG]

This is the first one of your videos that I’ve watched while knitting along. What a beautiful location!

[@patriciagrenner8033]

Hi Mark. I guess I use the word “podcast” loosely. I should say i love your channel and all you offer. Conversation is my most favorite. I feel like I’m engaged and particpating with you in some weird way. I commented a while ago about how or why I took up knitting and it led to a very long story of a family tragedy. You make it easy for me/us to “talk” with you and it’s like we’re in the same room. Your content just feels very natural. Take that as a huge compliment. I don’t typically comment much when I watch fiber podcasts. I have some that I really enjoy and I do with them, but you are just so “real” and you discuss many things and share many things. Your wedding video was just so beautiful. You’re a great story teller and have a very soothing way about you. So suffice it to say that I am now a fan and don’t miss your episodes. The fiber I like is from Expression Fiber Arts, Wandering Flock, La Bien Aimee. I know most of it is superwash, but I find that I’m now venturing out and looking at non superwash yarns and I’m getting some good advice from you. I have an itch factor though. So I don’t think mohair would be a good fit for me or anything too too rustic. But I’m definitely open to new ideas. If you have any furry non itchy recommendations for a good lace yarn, that would be awesome. I’ve heard about fuwa fuwa but havent tried that yet. You also talk about Scout. Maybe I’ll give that a try too. Patricia

[@savannahfoote592]

The "nyihh, I don't like that yarn" video is what got me here lol!

[@DarylBatCarer-ms7od]

Me too!!

[@MelBlager]

Even though I learned to knit and crochet more than 40 years ago, it is only recently that I really started to explore all the fibres, so I haven't made any decisions as to my favourite. I am exploring linen, mohair, and alpaca recently (not in the same yarn, lol). Merino and mulespinner wool last year, and a variety of cotton and acrylics. I'm having too much fun exploring to stick to any one type. Thanks for letting us spend time with you.

[@Aliceherz24]

I have a low budget since I'm disabled and can't work, but the drops safran cotton has been my favourite yarn so far! I've used so many colours and it's so versatile. plus it's affordable so I still get to crochet lots. I've made a hexi cardigan, recreated a top from a tv show, did some small amigurumi projects and a cute little fake string of pearls plant 🥰 can't stand wool though, it's too scratchy to work with and often smells weird, I've hated the one project I did with sock wool. maybe I just got a bad skein, it was gifted to me so I don't know much about it... anyways, I discovered your channel last week and been catching up on videos since, thanks for the calming and educational content, wether it's knitting (which I don't know much about) renovating, chatting, show and tells, it's always worthwhile and leaves me with a good vibe ♡

[@lottakiuru-ribar9378]

I’m one of those people who like your podcast, or whatever you’d like to call it. 😊 I like your pace and your musings, and I like that you’re unapologetically a pretty advanced knitter. There is enough content for beginners and I’ve been looking for content like yours. So thank you! I’ve been knitting for forever… my favorite yarns are woolly wools, but I do also love a nice merino fingering with a strand on mohair. I’m always looking for good quality yarns at a reasonable price.

[@blackhellebore89]

Mark - would you consider putting your audio up on where one would traditionally find podcasts; Spotify? You have such a listenable voice and these chatty knit with me videos would suit that well i think

[@KevinMontreal]

Hey Mark, what I love about your channel is the variety. Your insight on yarn, your calm voice, your backdrops ( the sunset on this one was fabulous). I watch as I crochet so you are a crochet buddy and I don’t need a three ring circus in front of me, just a good knowledgeable yarn enthusiast is perfect. I love wool and cotton and my favourites brands are Malabrigo, Juniper Moon Farms, Sandnes Garn, Drops and Les Garçons which is based right here in Montreal! If I do mail order, Knit Picks and Hobbii have pretty good stuff but I prefer buying my yarn in local shops to keep them going.

[@TheStitchWitchPodcast]

To answer your question about "what makes this 'podcast' different from other fiber craft YT," I can take the perspective of someone familiar with OG YT, and this fiber-craft specific form of media; Most "podcasts" in the knitting sense don't align with traditional mixed media podcasts. Rather, it refers to a longform style of video on the topic of knitting that follows a traditional format: review of FO's, WIP's, then acquisitions in that order. Sometimes at the end, the knitter will talk about media/activities they are doing. Sometimes there is B roll or vlog footage, but the vast majority is 'talking head' style content. Typically they are considered long videos, as they tend to have playback of ~30m or longer.

[@catherinen6766]

A nice start to my day... whatever you call it, this episode feels like I'm sitting with you to knit & chat. I think it's you & your personality that create the atmosphere here! About setting goals... I'm working on a blast from the past, a Colinette Ab Fab throw in a rowdy colorway called Wild One. I've had the yarn for about ten years, and kept it around, knowing how much I loved it & that I *really* wanted to knit it. That time is now! It's a fun, low pressure project that is making me happy. So about those goals... sometimes it takes a while, but we can still get there. Never say never! 🙂

[@christianavance9124]

I hope you're enjoying your time in Tucson. February is when we get a bit more visitors for the 4th Ave Street Fair, Rodeo, Gem and Mineral Show and leading into the Book Fair in early March, but the weather is more stable now. We are an official city of gastronomy so hopefully the food and sites are enough to draw you back again. There are a few nice local yarn stores too that I hope you get to visit.

[@juliedominicmacuich1710]

I enjoy you. You are very refreshing. Not selling anything. Your voice is soothing. Watching you while I knitting a simple top down cardigan for my granddaughter for her high school graduation. She wants it pink and oversized to take to college. I am using Encore worsted with a slub for a little texture.

[@catlady743]

My favorite fiber to work with is wool, the fancier the better. My fingers love it, my wallet not so much. I look forward to the steeking video, the idea of it fascinates me and terrifies me at the same time.

[@melissahazard9785]

Your videos ARE different, but in a good way. You inspire me to knit along with you as I listen. I love that you encourage a conversation with your listeners. We have very similar tastes in yarn, which also helps. I live in Pittsburgh. The next time you visit the area, check out Kid Ewe Knot in Bridgeville. It's a great lys. I can't say that I have a favorite brand of yarn. I definitely prefer natural fibers. However, if I make a gift for someone, I have learned to use acrylic or cotton for most people.

[@lyssam100]

I've noticed that the craft community has kind of its own definition of podcast. If it's a talky craft video, it's apparently a podcast, which is wild to me coming from original audio-cast-to-iPod podcasts.

[@lyssam100]

Oh, and as for favourite fibre: I'm lucky enough to be local to a lovely woolen mill, and love using their extrafine wool yarn.

[@WoolTheyWontThey]

I’ve noticed that, too. It actually is sometimes inconvenient because whenever I look for knitting audio podcast recommendations for long drives, I get lists of KZbin channels. I definitely consider this a channel more than a podcast, which is great for a hobby where visuals are so important!

[@kristalpower292]

@lyssam100 im finding almost any long form video that isn't labelled by the channel as a tutorial or episode of some series is labelled a podcast. But this channel along with Flannel & Purls at the table videos more like knitting groups/stitch and bi**h sessions were we get together and knit learning long with the stories shared.

[@MsGloaming]

Omg finally this is being talked about. To me, the term podcast indicates that it is an audio first format. But most fiber related so called podcast rely heavily on you being able to watch them on a screen. I prefer the more accurate terms like video because of that. Thanks for adressing this 😅

[@angelagenx6629]

Yes! Why am I so irritated by knitting videos being called podcasts?! If someone is demonstrating, showing examples, using any type of visuals, it’s isn’t a podcast. If we were to follow this logic, any video of someone talking to a camera should be called a podcast. I don’t understand how this became a trend, and I’m just going to say it, but it makes the KZbin knitting community look kind of dumb.

[@kimu.6227]

My new favorite yard in Madeline Tosh Vintage. It is a superwash worsted and it is absolutely stunning. I am knitting with their Piñata Pop and Cousteau colorways right now and even when the pattern gets a little boring, I am motivated to knit because the yarn is SO pretty and so easy to work with. I live on the edge of the world and I don't have a LYS to shop at. The online Madeline Tosh customer service is great. I emailed them about different combinations and they were able to steer me in a good direction. The CON is that it is spendy and dyed to order so each order will have you waiting 2-3 weeks for delivery. Some of their cotton combinations have a more muted color (almost chalky in comparison) but the Vintage is shiny and vibrant so it's my current favorite.

[@beanixdorf6977]

It just takes time to get adjusted to the thick/thin texture. If you continue with this type of yarn you’ll get accustomed to it. Love your channel

[@katerogers5365]

I really like the choices you make for designs you are making for yourself. They are bold and strong designs, but subtle too, and generally, I find it can be hard to find that match-up in knitting for men. I am new to the channel. I like its relaxed tone and varied content. Yarns: I match the project’s purpose to the yarn and have tried many, for different styles and seasons🎉. Almost always, I use natural fibers. Recently, knitting with an extremely fine 2-ply merino is very challenging.

[@summerchild546]

I love a mohair/silk yarn. Completely impractical in most things. I am a lurker and have watched you from the start. I really enjoy your vids because you bring interest but also yourself. For what it's worth I think you are doing great. 💛

[@jasminenoack]

My favorite yarn is soul sock by punk rock unicorn. I love it because it’s so soft and honestly the color utsuri is basically my favorite color yarn ever. I’m just super into orange/black yarns that aren’t about Halloween. They are also not afraid of super bright colors and neons and aggressive variegated yarns. They are just delightful (arcane fiberworks is a favorite for similar reasons). For solids Queen City yarn is my favorite. I think the totals are really well done and the colors are really beautiful and deep and they have a really solid sport weight yarn (latta) which is a weight I have a lot of trouble finding generally. And you know just to advertise all my favorite people, maker mercantile is probably my favorite shopping experience. I just think they are so nice and they are so excited about the projects and yarn they sell.

[@HomeWithMyBookshelf]

I was working on some fingerless gloves using nalbinding while watching this video! Now that I have been nalbinding for seven years, I am beginning to have very strong opinions about yarn and my yarn preferences for my craft. In the last few years, my favourite yarn has been Vandre yarn from Rauma, a 100% Norwegian wool sock yarn. The fibre is 50% spælsau and 50% Norwegian long tailed sheep (not sure if that is the correct English name). The spælsau fibres are tougher and longer, and provide some reinforcement to the yarn without having to bring in nylon or similar artificial fibres. The yarn is also spun very tightly. This makes it slightly more difficult to spit splice, but I find it manageable. In nalbinding it produces garments/items that hold their shape well. I also enjoy the colours this yarn comes in. Since I currently am trying to nalbind without looking much at my work, another positive of this yarn is that the strands are very obvious to the touch - I never have to worry that I am holding/feeling half a strand or two, because the tightly spun thread is a very obvious unit. I have had two pretty bad experiences with yarn in the last few months. One was with a wool and alpaca yarn that stretched out the moment the garment started being used. There was something about how smooth it was and how "heavy" and non-memory-holding the alpaca is, I think. I will probably never use that yarn again. Working it up was fine, it just didn't produce a good finished project. The other bad experience was with an unwashed single ply Donegal tweed yarn. Since you pull the entire tail of the yarn through, I was getting a lot of knots and issues with the unwashed yarn that just wanted to spin in on itself. Yarn management (really important for a smooth nalbinding experience) was kind of a nightmare. There was also spinning oil on the yarn that made it feel and smell weird while working with it. If I were to use an unwashed yarn again, I would wash the yarn before I started the project. Using yarn for nalbinding with an unset twist is just miserable. This comment turned out really long, I may make a video about this soon. I seem to have a lot to say! I really enjoy your videos! They make me think in new ways about my craft, and they keep me company while I nalbind! They also make me realise that for example having a favourite yarn and being excited about new yarn releases is a normal thing among us crafters!

[@jessicalila3712]

Hi Mark! I'm a new subscriber and I mostly like to work with wool even though I live in AZ (not far from where you are now in Tucson). My favorite wool yarn right now is Retrosaria Mondim. I've knit socks with it and I also plan to knit a sweater at some point! I think maybe what people are referring to when they say they like your videos is that you have a pleasing variety and each video I've watched is interesting and engaging. Like another person mentioned, many of these knitting podcasts follow a pretty standard format of finished objects, works in progress, and acquisitions. It's nice to see someone just following their heart and presenting more of a "day in the life of a knitter" type format. Either way, keep doing what you're doing because it's obvious to me that it's working!

[@reneefitzgerald2501]

I've only been watching your channel for a little bit but I enjoy your calm manner and I appreciate the insights you share about your work. I'm in my fifties and have just started knitting and crocheting after many years of not and I'm really enjoying the creative process. Thanks for sharing.

[@caroleperry2615]

Hi Mark, I love your soothing ways. You are a kind loving person and I enjoy your videos. I initially found you by your video on how to make the grains on your sweater. I love knitting. Another podcast you might like is knitphen. He is also a knitter/singer who lives near NYC.

[@TheLoneWanderersBunker]

I see this more as a channel where friends catch up.

[@flushedphoenix81]

My favourite fibre is Shetland wool. I have used from Jamieson & Smith, Jamieson's of Shetland and The West Yorkshire Spinners. My family is from Shetland and I have spun some Shetland wool with my granny. The Shetland sheep is naturally warmer due to the climate it lives in so I have found items made from that yarn are warmer. I have a family friend who is one of the few who make Shetland wedding ring shawls which are stunning and so fine the shawl passes through a wedding ring

[@sewcellosusan8664]

Love hearing about the music you're performing. I am now also looking forward to playing with some Cricket yarn I picked up this summer.

[@susanmarshall3709]

Mark, are you at Dove Mountain? The resorts in Tucson are so wonderful. I always wonder what the term is: podcast, vlog, blog, show, whatever it is, i am glad that you are not trying to “make it big” like trying all the stuff that we should “try”! I love to hear about the yarn and the pointers about the characteristics of each yarn. I enjoy watching your channel as you have a different prospective on this craft and not afraid to tell us about it. Thanks.

[@fleecefriend9286]

Mark I really enjoy your videos. I find the content interesting and your voice is calming - I often watch at the end of the night when I’m exhausted, so I fall asleep and miss the end, but I go back to catch the end the next day. I don’t have a favorite fiber - I like to try lots of different things, new experiences. I spin my own yarn, I hope to actually use it more than I have so far.

[@maryhumphrey6766]

I like the nice rustic look of your project.

[@valoriec]

I tend to work with anti-pilling acrylic yarns more than anything. Lion Brand is a favorite. I like several of their yarns. The main reason is the washability and easy care for gifts or charity knits. I do have a bin full of wools, some of them luxe, but I hoard them rather than use them. They're so pretty, and I haven't found anything worth using the expensive yarns. Nine times out of ten, I reach for acrylics or soft cottons.

[@deloresjackson437]

Another great episode! It was delightful to knit along while talked about your style of podcasting, and it was lovely to watch the backdrop change as the evening went on. It was absolutely amazing. My desert island yarns are Rowan Felted Tweed and Kidsilk Haze. I love the way it feels and looks and I find that it is versatile as a DK weight. Also, there are so many color choices that make matching easy. Thanks for all of your knitting and lifing insights. Cheers!

[@cball8160]

Lovely video Mark! Your gift of gentility and ease makes for a very pleasant time spent. Having met you in the shop Monday confirms it. As for your question-in 60 years time many miles of fiber have passed through these hands and my favorite is always sheep’s wool. I like different kinds and weights for different reasons. Wool seems to work the best for most of my knitting which tends to be traditional sweaters from Scandinavia or Britain. We certainly have a variety of wool to choose from now. That keeps me endlessly inspired and always hunting for another sweater quantity. Gone are the days of traveling to the mills in Scotland and finding treasure in their back rooms but the internet and excellent shipping has made treasure hunting still such fun! Maybe yarn is like friends-some are easier than others but all have the potential for something special and memorable. Or maybe it’s just yarn😀

[@KimClinger]

The background is gorgeous. Looks like you’re sitting in front of a painting, until you see a car moving in the background. The birdsongs add a lovely touch. Thanks for sharing more about the music you perform. If you can sneak a recording of it in, that would be cool! Don’t let the hater comments take over your videos, they just want the attention. You be you boo! That’s why I’m here! Plus I like your knitting choices, the things I learn from your knitting, and from your followers recommendations for repairing or working with “issues”. You have a great variety of topics for your episodes. Thanks for all you do! ❤

[@adrianghandtchi1562]

My current favorite yarn that I’m working with is the peaches & cream, emerald energy ombre is the color, which is creams, sky blues and a variety of sea greens. It’s a size 4 worsted weight, I am practicing again and have remastered my troubles with the double stitch and crocheting, and of course learned my turning chains because my project kept expanding out or reducing. So there’s still much to be done as far as practice, you’re very relaxing to listen to.

[@tejkaur8409]

There is a KZbin vlog community created during the pandemic. Someone started making videos at that time showcasing their knitting, and called it a knitting podcast even though it was more of a vlog. The "Podcast" name stuck even though it's not very accurate way to describing of what it is. There are alot of youtubers around this and almost all follow the same format... Finished (knitted) objects FOs, works in progress WIPs and future knitting plans +yarn acquisitions.

[@lizholzer4930]

I like lots of different yarns, but I guess my favorite must be Rowan Felted Tweed because I keep buying it and knitting with it even though I find it itchy as hell. Do I wear the garments anyway? Yes, absolutely, because I’m willing to suffer in the interest of looking good, and RFT creates good-looking garments in a weight I like. But other than RFT, I find myself buying lots of Scout from Kelbourne Woolens. The fact that KW is located in my home base of Philly has something to do with that.❤

[@zormdazzle]

I think those who use the term podcast are incorrect because the definition of podcast is an audio file for downloading. Some channels may be “podcast-style” by only focusing on audio. At the end of the day these are videos. Vlog would be a more appropriate term. I’m sure those that say podcast mean well. Your videos are awesome by the way 💜 I enjoy your calming voice and I really like how you’re not the type of channel to constantly name drop other KZbinrs. I don’t mind sharing or occasionally discussing other channels myself but there’s a few people out there who seem to always bring up other channels to make themselves seem more interesting or important. You just seem like you are genuinely yourself and I appreciate it.

[@aknitlife]

Another wonderful podcast Mark! I love the talk and topics you talked about. I knitted with super wash merino and alpaca initially. However, I didn’t like the stretch of my sweaters. I mainly sought to buy woolly wool, blue faced leister, Corriedale, cormo, British wool, etc. I’ve tried West Yorkshire Spinner, Biches & Buches, Harrisville Designs, and Stone Wool, Susan Crawford, John Arbon, etc. It knitted up smooth and lovely. I don’t like farm yarn that is too loaded with vegetable matters. I have to stop knitting to pick them out. I enjoy your podcast and other podcasts while knitting whenever I can. Your podcast is a forum knitters like to go to hear your thoughts, ideas, inspirations, and learn how to, such as steeking, ladder back jacquard, intarsia, etc. Thanks for the heads up on Kelbourne Woolen Cricket, I will buy some in my wool purchase, I have not try it yet and always like to try wool that podcasters highly recommend. Keep up the wonderful work! Can’t wait to view your next upload! ❤

[@yourfavMattina]

Enjoying your videos - I am with you on how strange it is that people are calling youtube videos "podcasts" now -it's a whole trend in language that seems confusing to me. To me a podcast is something that is audio only - and your videos of this style do work well as a listening tool in my life alongside knitting or working or whatever without having to watch to get the understanding. I think it feels like a weird misnomer to have everyone saying podcast for the structured knitting videos people are putting out now (wips, plans, yarn etc) because you have to watch the video to see the projects and yarn etc. In the end, who cares really - but it is interesting to see language change with tech and media!

[@AngelaRoberts-n7x]

Hi Mark Crystal calls this type of yarn roving , it’s an acquired taste yarn my sister bought a beautiful yarn to make a sweater and couldn’t finish it because she dislikes the feel of it so you are not alone in this . Must admit when the thickness goes from fingering to a medium 4 it’s not pleasant to work. I live in the U.K. so I like King Cole big brand and Yorkshire spinners for woollen yarns .

[@lonestew]

My favourite yarns are anything from Isager or John Arbon. They are both high quality brands. Bluefaced Leicester is amazing. But I actually knit mostly with surplus yarn from the Italian knitting industry that I buy online. It is yarns on cones and in various thicknesses. Merino, alpaca, cashmere and merino/cashmere mix. This makes knitting really nice garments quite cheap. I combine 2-4 strands of this yarn, make a lot of swatches until I get a fabric and color I like. My yarn "library" is huge 😅

[@mdyph27]

Hi Mark. Thank you for your videos. The way you film it is like visiting with a friend. My favorite yarn right now is Holst Garn Coast. Thank you for sharing your world! Micah

[@siirin7017]

My favourite fiber is Finnish sheep wool: it is sooooo warm and not at all itchy contrary to what people often think ❤

[@lynnewillette2654]

I prefer natural fibres and enjoy trying a variety of them: different yarns depending on the project. I’d rather not use super wash wools though they have their place. I like the fabric texture that a thick and thin yarn gives but then I like a smooth yarn for well defined stitch texture. Again, it depends on the project. I do like Rowan Felted Tweed during and after the knitting. Knitting for Olive has a nice line of yarns. Your background video is very entertaining and soothing. You have a talking voice that’s nice to listen to. This “slow knitting” video is comfortable company to knit along with. Thank you.

[@lisanycz4164]

I don’t often comment but if just wanted to say that 1)I truly enjoy your videos you seems so kind and do a very professional job. I enjoy seeing what you’re knitting and I love seeing your cats😻. 2) probably not a popular opinion but I love super wash fingering weight yarn (I probably wouldn’t make a sweater out of it) it’s wonderful for socks, hats, shawls and blankets it’s so soft and drapes so nicely. Can’t wait to see what you’re up to next😊

[@TheBlueKnitter]

I miss Buffalo yarn. Yes I know it wasn’t the most ethically sourced Yarn but damn was it strong! Also soy soft like silk and they both took the dye so well! Oh the good old days lol!

[@joycedollar1198]

I have not found a full on dislike in any yarn. However I've bought some plotolupe yarn it's Icelandic come in plates like roving. It's very delicate and breaks easy. You have to sit comit and unroll off a length to knit with so not liking that as I want to throw in bag and go. So put off project for now Loving noro Akari. It is thick n thin with raw natural organic matter took some getting use to but loving it. Thank you for great videos. I think what sets you apart from other tubers is you are thurough with discussion and stay on topic Complete task and projects. Loving the judge free zone. Keep going. Have blessed day

[@karensmith2204]

Great one......goals are great.

[@FairilyFiberFun]

Oooh, favorite fiber... as a handspinner, I prefer anything handspun, but right now my favorite fiber to work with is wool from Jacob sheep. My 2nd favorite is Tunis because the wool is super bouncy and squishy! Gulf Coast Native is an amazing fiber and another favorite as well.

[@laurienesdahl6817]

I love your channel because it seems fresh and genuine. I work with cotton and acrylic mostly because i make a lot of baby clothes and they need frequent washing. The background is stunning and i thank you for sharing it! ❤

[@loiscassels8966]

To me, a podcast is a listen only experience. Perhaps it could be called “fibre tube”, just as the stitchers call their episodes “floss tube”. ❤️🇨🇦

[@christinagely2086]

Loved this episode! Right now I am really enjoying working with Purl SoHo’s Linen Quill and, from Nova Scotia, Fleece Artist’s Organic Cottage Socks yarn! Just beautiful!❤

[@tisha292]

I love your videos because I feel like I am actually crafting with a friend who is updating me with their life for the past week. Even though your videos are sometimes shorter, I can still carve out however long they are to make a little progress on my current WIPs. I am mostly a crocheter and use a lot of acrylic blends for my projects. I like to keep the cost low for my projects, so I use a lot of lions brand or big twist. If yarn is too expensive I get too nervous to use it in a project.

[@malinbjorkman4615]

Speaking from my view. I look at KZbin videos that is presented to me sorted by algorithms 😜or something. But 9 out of 10 I stop watching. And yours was that 10th and I continued, and I subscribed. Even went back to look at previous episodes. ❤It is not what you DO, it is about who you ARE - a warm hearted person that wants to spread happines and joy. ❤That simple!! Keep it that way! Be yourself! Don’t overthink, just go with that flow you just created! Delete or block that critisism! Best from Malin in Sweden ❤️🧶❤

[@jenniferwiltrout1975]

My favorite yarn so far is some I bought at Yampa Valley Fiberworks in Craig, Colorado. It is BLF fingering weight and a delight to knit with. It is a natural brown color. It does have some bits of hay in it and has some thinner spots.

[@loganrutledge3610]

I did my doctorate at IU and the local yarn shop Rebel Purl has some of their own hand dyed yarns and they’re awesome! Love the themes too. I think my favorite yarn I’ve ever worked with was a NSW merino and tussah silk blend. I love something a tad toothy with some structure and body.

[@amymurdock5905]

Thanks for sharing your music!!

[@trev1463]

I've watched a few of your videos... or listening mostly since I've been working on my first sweater and I'm fixing a stitch I reversed 2 rows below - your voice is great and soothing and it's nice to have pleasant chatter as I knit. Wool is my favorite fiber, though I don't have a favorite style. I have a lot of Malabrigo Rios and Madelinetosh (the single ply superwash fingering) since I'm easily sold on beautiful colors and I usually make smaller projects. My current project sweater is in a rustic non-superwash wool (no brand, I bought it from the farmers) I've dyed chocolate brown and I'm loving it - it's very grippy, study, and resilient.

[@r.mcd2921]

Hi Mark - I'm slogging through a mosaic knitting project now with some stash yarn. It's Noro A La Mode, a single strand, dyed in the wool with some super colors. It's been discontinued, and I think one of the reasons is that it has zero bounce or stretch. It's difficult for me to tension, and it just doesn't have the good hand feel of most plied yarns. That said, I think it's a good choice for the jacket I'm knitting, and I'll be happy with the project once it's finished - no matter how many eons that will seem to take.

[@blackhellebore89]

The wools from most NZ indie dyers come from the same two mills in NZ (I think, mostly). So I like knitting with any of their wools. I particularly like Dark Harbour - her blends are beautiful. Most wool sold in NZ is NZ wool, with brands from Australia and the likes of Crucci being sold here too. How the yarn feels in my hands while I knit is important to me. I find acrylic yarns, or blends with too high of an acrylic continent "sticky" in my hands - I've just given up on a project of 100% wool for the same sort of "sticky" feeling.

[@EmmePhillips-HookinEmme]

My favorite wool is either Always Be Kind yarn or Amble from The Fibre Co. my favorite workhorse yarn is with Scheepjes yarn or Cascade.

[@heathermacmaster5666]

So... no idea about pod casts. I have channels that I like listening to and I have channels I like learning from. I like listening to you.. I would LOVE to hear you sing. Just saying. I was a musician in a former life before I destroyed my voice so respect! I crochet. My fave yarn is to work with is 50/50 cotton wool. My challenge to you!!! Learn to spin yarn!!! I also spin my own yarn. I know what you are saying about the irregularities. My OCD would not let me use hand spun until I learned to spin my own and then I got over it. Just starting from fiber and ending with a finished fabric is phenomenal. I can't even tell you.. it's a gateway hobby. Just saying...

[@skcro8r]

I really love your videos because your relaxed, inviting, and truthful. Also your voice is very nice. My favorite yarn recently is Cascade superwash wool or their 220 because it’s very soft, uniform, and adorably priced for the quality.

[@graceannreads]

I wouldn’t say that acrylic is my most used fiber but not my favorite per say. I proudly use it because I can throw it in the washing machine with no worries. And it’s cheap and readily available to me

[@shamszakhour6076]

Mark, aren't you sweltering in Az in your wool halibut sweater? I enjoy your vlog/podcast because you are authentic.

[@roxirossetti6250]

This was a beautiful video, Mark, thanks! My favourite fibre is cashmere, but I do not get a lot of it. Happy with merino and alpaca, though. Malabrigo and Juniper Moon are two favourite commercial lines of yarn, but Alley Cat yarns, a hand-dyer who is local to me (also online), does amazing work. If I could afford to work exclusively with her yarns I would. I do not knit and doubt I will ever get the hang of it, but I crochet every day.