Knit & Chat | My knitting origin story & plans for my Ranunculus | Aussie Knitting Podcast Ep. 7

[@wendycayless]

The library is my best friend! I borrow ebooks, e-Audiobooks and rarely hard copy books from my local library and State Library (NSW)

[@YourKnittingBestie]

That's awesome!! Gosh I do love libraries as well. The second best place to be - after the yarn store ;)

[@elizabethphilpot-davis2358]

You asked for our 'beginning to knit' stories: I taught myself to knit from a book way back in 1976, when I gave up smoking, 'cos I needed something to do with my hands! Every time I wanted a cigarette, I would pick up my knitting instead; it was a great success and I have been knitting (and still not smoking) ever since. I am 72 now and still learning new techniques and experimenting with new patterns, especially since I retired. The internet, especially KZbin is great, I try to learn one new thing every day. Just found your channel - very nice, very pleasant voice and delightful chatty content. Thank you!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello and welcome 😊That's such a great way to have started knitting and one I haven't heard before - I love it!

[@susanarrighi]

The Ranunculus looks perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing and the colour looks really great on you, it’s inspired me to have another go 😍

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much! 🩷 Another Ranunculus is always a good idea - you can never have too many Ranunculus (Ranunculi? Ranunculuses? Haha!)

[@kathleenjohnson4433]

I was taught as a child but didn’t really do much until I as married with children at university. We had so little money that clothing for the kids was the motivation. Done mostly in acrylic for washability it led to afghans, mitts and hats and scarves (we are Canadian) and truthfully have never stopped totally since. There were certainly less busy times but even when I returned to school for my teaching degree and taught high school, I knit for pleasure. Now in retirement I knit to learn new techniques and use new to me yarns and fibers and even am spinning. A lifetime craft indeed. At 74! Having a ball!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Married, with children, at university and making clothes by hand. Gosh, you must have had your hands full!! That is so impressive. How wonderful that it's something you've been able to do over your whole life.

[@DelphineSerenity]

Hi from Tasmania! Love finding another Australian knitter to watch 😊 My favourite yarn for baby things is Bella Baby Baby Bliss Merino, it's easily available at Spotlight (and goes on sale for $5 per 50g ball often), 100% merino wool and it's so soft, and cold machine washable - I feel like generally we should move away from using acrylics for babies, now we know generally a lot more about microplastics and chemicals, it just irks me to be putting pure plastic on babies 😅 Also, knitting and reading at the same time is something I admire too! I was so amazed to find out that The Crazy Sock Lady here on youtube regularly knits AND reads at the same time while walking on her treadmill! Blows my mind, I wish I could get exercising done while knitting 😂

[@staceyh2028]

Thanks for the knit & chat! Love these kinds of videos. It was great to hear your 'how I started knitting' story. I was a crocheter, self taught (youtube, books) for about 6 years, then a friend that was in my crochet circle wanted to learn to knit, because her mom had. So we took a class together in 2017 and I've been knitting ever since. I love both and also just started spinning 🧶

[@louisecarlin9210]

I learned to knit when I was 10. My mother taught me, started with swatches which we made into doll blankets then bed socks for my grandmother. Mum couldn’t read patterns, so as I got older I taught myself to read and can now do most things, I’m now 58 🌻

[@VirginiaBerrier]

Friends at work taught me. They were knitting on our lunch break and I loved the finished projects and asked them to teach me and the rest is history.

[@dianescott3515]

This was another wonderful video😊. I have to say I don’t have a favorite type of format, I’ve enjoyed each one you’ve done. My knitting journey began 50+ years ago when my friend taught me to knit house slippers. My knitting went “on the back burner” after my girls were born and through their growing up years. Now I knit ALOT! I knit accessories, toys, garments etc. I haven’t knit a baby blanket, but wanted to mention to you that there is a great free baby sock pattern by Kate Atherley on Ravelry. These make great small quick gifts. She has one with sock yarn and one with dk/worsted weight yarn. I love how the knitting community comes together through these podcasts ❤

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you for the lovely comment and great suggestion on the pattern - I've noted that down for future reference! Your friend set you on an exciting path when she taught you how to knit those house slippers - it sounds like you've done a bit of everything since then! 🩷

[@michelephilp9362]

I forgot to mention that I like to use Sirdar Snuggly yarn to knit baby clothes/blankets, etc. It comes in all weights and is super easy to knit with and the final product looks really great. They also have a few baby blankets in their pattern section on their website. Hope this helps.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

OOooo yes, Sidar Snuggly came up in my research as well, it looks like a great option!

[@joywilson6067]

Thank you for your great knit and chat. My dad taught me to knit one day when I was about 6 or 7 to keep me occupied! I don’t know how he knew how to knit, Scottish heritage possibly? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿And I realise I’ve been knitting pretty much ever since. That’s over 50 years! Eeek! 😳 It would be great to hear some book recommendations from you one day. 🌷

[@casuarinagirl8067]

Hello from Northern New South Wales. I do love your ranunculus too, I think shorter sleeves would be magic. I actually went online to Spotlight to see if they have that yarn and it was discontinued 🤭😂 so your knit gets a thumbs up from me. Try the library! It’s awesome, they will transfer books for you and even if they don’t have them you can request that they buy them and they usually will. The only thing you sometimes need is a bit of patience, it saved me a small fortune as both my children would read a lot, like myself so we were there on a weekly and fortnightly basis. Thanks for sharing, Karen 🥰

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello! Oh how funny. Well please do let me know if you would like to try Truboo - I have around 3 balls (white) and I have no idea what to do with it 😂 Would be happy to post it down to you! A great idea to revisit the library, it's been a while since I stuck my head into one! Thanks for your lovely comment 🩷

[@samanthalouise6995]

I really enjoy Bendigo Woollen Mills in either cotton or their luxury pure wool. Both are incredibly soft and a pleasure to knit with.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Oh yes absolutely. Totally agree! Must put them on my baby yarns list.

[@j_filippo]

I did enjoy the knit and chat. Hearing about others knitting journey interests me. I took my first knitting class in the summer of 2019 as I was planning to retire in the next 18 months or so. We all remember how 2020 went down in history. So I ended up retiring early in April of 2021 vs. September. By then we had been in lockdown for over a year so I was watching knitting channels on KZbin. You all became my new besties ❤. I’m a sloth knitter but I’m not upset about it. Right now I’m crocheting my first baby blanket (Rainbow Ripple baby blanket a free pattern on Ravelry) and I’m also knitting my summer tee called Basic Organic Tee that I bought from Etsy. Your calm voice is a breath of fresh air.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

I'm glad to hear you enjoyed this format, thank you for letting me know! Gosh you must have supercharged your learning with all that knitting time during lockdown. Sloth knitting is absolutely the best way to do it in my opinion 😉 Oooh I've seen the rainbow ripple blanket on Ravelry and it is beautiful! Thank you again for coming by here.

[@ericallerton809]

❤morning nadine!!!!great to see ur podcast come up!!!!a new subscriber!!! Enjoy ur chats and ur voice is so nice snd calm!!!!love ur ranunculus on you!!! I have been knitting s long time!!!way before utube. !!!!🎉 Did simple scarfs and blankets in my teens!!!!then learned to crochet!!!! Now years later back to knitting !!as i learned to finally knit 🧦🧦🧦 socks!!!!and i am addicted!!!! So thats a good thing Recently made a small blanket !!crocheted it for a baby in style craft special dk!!!from england !!! Itsoretty soft snd washable!!!! Elaine 🏠 Love to read too!!!!in my hand!!!!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hi Elaine and thank you so much for your comment!! 🩷🩷🩷

[@naomiledger1374]

Love the ranunculus as is. I think the colour is gorgeous on you, and the style is really pretty. Interested to know if you did end up amending it somehow. The knit n chat was a lovely and relaxing vid format. Very enjoyable. After learning the basics as a kid from my nana, I'm only now returning to knitting so consider myself a newbie all over again. I wish id been more interested when I was young and my nana was still around. She was a master knitter and dressmaker. But it's never too late...plus there was no such thing as internet back then so feel like I have something of an advantage with that now. My first project will be a beanie for myself. ❤

[@sharbear1968]

I’m so happy to have come upon you at the beginning of your KZbin journey while I’m starting my knitting journey. I love videos that talk about different ideas to knit/crochet while I’m working on a project. This was a great one too. Learning about your beginning and seeing your first projects. Mine was a crochet beer cozy for a friend going to an NFL game. Oh my. It would’ve fit a giant but she was gracious and said she loved it. Unpopular thought but another first project (crochet) was a baby blanket in a holey continuous granny stitch. The baby is now about a year old and it is her daily blanket. It was made with lion brand mandala acrylic yarn found everywhere here in the U.S. The mom said she loves it because it’s not a solid stitch so baby doesn’t get too hot. That warmed my heart because I’ve read so many criticisms about using blankets with any gaps and how people worry about fingers and toes getting caught up. She says her baby winds her fingers around the gaps and it seems to comfort her little one. So good for thought. Especially since you have warmer weather. Enjoy your week. I look forward to seeing more content in the near future. Be healthy and happy.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

What a marvellous first project!! I would love to make my dad a beer cozy - I'm saving that idea for a rainy day 😁 It must be an excellent blanket for it to be her daily blanket. That's the ultimate compliment for a baby blanket! I hadn't even thought about gaps being an issue for that reason, so I'm really glad to have read your message. It certainly would help with the warmer weather, for use. Thanks for your great comment and for spending time here with me 🩷🩷

[@sebnempervar3101]

You are so natural and lovely. I truly enjoy your videos, any format, you can switch them as you like. I learn a lot from you, also very well organized and edited video. Yes, I am already your fan.❤

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much for this comment - I can't tell you how much I appreciate it and I'm so happy to have you here following along! 🩷

[@QueensYarnBoutique]

I really like the flower scarf you made for your sister. 🌻I like knitting chats and knitting vlogs. I also prefer physical books. However, I really like Audible.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello again! 🩷 I've just checked out audible as well - am working my way through the 2 free introductory credits as we speak. It's great so far.

[@kaytiej8311]

I enjoyed the knit and chat. It was good to hear your story. I sat here and listened while I worked on a shrug for my friend. Just a lovely cosy time.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Oh that really does sound like a fabulous time. I hope you have some more knitting time coming up soon 😊🩷

[@jessicaolney4900]

A lovely knit and chat. I like hearing how others got started knitting also. I started during my PhD as I needed something to get my mind off of writing my dissertation (although it actually helped me think through some things in the end) and so I bought a scarf kit at a department store: it was acrylic yarn and purple plastic straight needles--I still have the needles 😂 It came with a pamphlet--yes that is all--and I tried both methods illustrated and picked the one that felt better. Soon after, I knit a bulky poncho and a sweater for my boyfriend (I bet you can imagine how that turned out size wise, as I knew nothing about gauge, etc). I taught myself Intarsia from a magazine--I didn't know there were other ways to do color work at the time and there was no KZbin, etc. Here I am over 20 years later and still learning new things and improving, and buying yarns I prefer over acrylic. With that however, acrylic is a great yarn choice for baby blankets for its washability (including dryers). Just get a soft one. Otherwise, cotton blends, maybe with a superwash merino? If the parent could ruin it by mistake, just don't pick an expensive one. They are fast to make and a great reason to cast on a new project!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

What a fabulous reason to start knitting!! Knitting helps me sort through my thoughts as well. Many a solution has been born over a couple rows of stitches. I love that you still have the needles 😂😂 a great reminder of that time in your life!! Thanks for the great suggestions on yarn, as well. Acrylic does seem to be a popular option for baby yarns, likely for that reason.

[@nancyistenes7643]

I’ve enjoyed all your formats and like that you mix it up. It helps to ensure that you don’t repeat too much. I would love to hear what you are reading, have read or want to read. Would also love to learn more about what are your favorite podcasts and why. What are the yarn stores like in Australia? Thanks for taking your time to do this. I gives me something to watch while knit.

[@michelephilp9362]

I really look forward to your videos. I like the videos where you introduce a new pattern or yarn. I really like the colour and style of Ranunculus that you are wearing and it does look great. My knitting journey follows my life. I started when I was probably around 7 years old - we were knitting clothes for our barbies. Then in the 70's, it was all about slippers and afgans. In the 80's, I knit a gorgeous Iceland sweater that I wore when I backpacked around Europe (I wished I had kept it). Then on to knitting baby blankets, jackets and booties when I had my children. My knitting has improved a lot from all the tutorials on youtube. Now I love knitting socks and sweaters. Knitting is always an adventure :) Looking forward to being a part of your journey.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment - I have some pattern / yarn videos coming up shortly so I hope you'll enjoy them 😊 It sounds like you've had some great 'phases' in your knitting and you've been able to try so many things!

[@clairegasson4187]

I've really enjoyed all your podcasts, you're a natural! Keep up the good work!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

That's so kind of you to say, thank you!!

[@Valentina-km8cg]

A lovely video. I've enjoyed your different formats. Shake it up! learned to knit when I was six. My mother and aunt were knitting Barbie clothes at the time. I knit sporatically as a teen and for many years thereafter. I began knitting with a captial K around 2005 and I haven't stopped. A pima cotton blend would be wonderful for a baby blanket; soft, and washable. I would have enjoyed watching you actually knit, seeing your style. Didn't quite make it into the frame. Good job!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

'Knitting with a capital k' is my new favourite phrase - love it!! 😁 Your barbies must have been so fashionable with their bespoke outfits 😉 Oh yes that's a good point, thank you for mentioning it - I will have to adjust my set up so that you can actually see the knitting next time. And hope that my fingers don't get stage fright 😂

[@eileensanford6086]

Agree that your Ranunculus sweater looks great as is. The color and styling makes it very versatile.

[@Lavendare1023]

My mother taught me to knit. She tried lots of times to teach me crochet but I couldn't do it. During lookdown I tried again with KZbin and it clicked. However I prefer knitting...the stitches, easier on the hands and uses less yarn. ❤

[@bevabberley1524]

You are such a tonic regards podcasts. My knitting story started as a child in the 1950s and my teacher was my Nan. The first garment I made was a royal blue cardigan and it came first in the Sunday School craft competition.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much for your kind comment - it lifted my spirits to read it! Your blue cardigan must have been an incredible first effort to win a competition right away, that's amazing!

[@yarnmotivated]

Totally understand the joy of holding the book while reading. If you're a fast reader than reading isn't a slow hobby 😂. So far all of your video formats are a pleasure to watch. Thank you for sharing!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you, I'm so glad you're enjoying these videos! And love to find another bookworm 😁

[@bettymcwoods9799]

Hi Nadine, I think your Ranunculus looks amazing as is. That color is lovely on you. I enjoy watching your videos. I taught myself how to knit watching KZbin videos. Although I haven't attempted a sweater yet. Perhaps when I'm more confident. ❤

[@warrandytegirl]

Hi Nadine. Thanks for the lovely podcasts. I recommend Bendigo woollen Mills Luxury in 4 ply for baby knits. I have knitted a Leafy Baby Blanket in their 10 ply for my granddaughter which was soft and lovely and also economical. I am flat2 on Ravelry if you would like to see it. Keep up the lovely chats. Oh your Ranunculus suits you more than you may think.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

A great recommendation, thank you! I'll be sure to drop by your Rav page to admire your project 😁

[@walkingexercise5375]

New here! I have been looking at trying some hobbies as a form of self-care! Diane in Denmark has videos on Fridays where she gives four self-care assignments/ideas that one can choose from for the week and in one of those videos she mentioned being creative. Also Mariane Cresp mentioned in her boost your mood video about creativity and I also watched Kennedy from the channel Cozy K, cozy hobbies to try videos. So I do not knit or crochet, but have been watching these types of videos. For example, TL Yarn Crafts temperature blanket and beginner friendly patten videos, with love, nikki video about a mental health blanket, and Carita from the channel she tried it videos about cardigans. Wonderful chat!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Welcome!! I love the idea of self-care assignments - how fantastic. I can't recommend knitting or crochet highly enough as both a creative outlet and form of self care. But I have to say listening to the types of videos you've mentioned is also a wonderful way to relax. Thanks for joining me here!

[@robinkearney4411]

Loved your video! It’s always interesting to learn more personal info and stories about knitting journeys along the way. Thanks for sharing with us, and please continue this format as well as your others.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much for taking the time to pass along the feedback! 🩷

[@katekennedy4730]

I've used Bendigo luxury 8ply, classic 5ply and cotton 10ply to make baby blankets and all have been well received and used. Machine washable is the key!😂 I did wonder if the classic would be too scratchy but the parents assured me the kid loves it still and it's been 4 or 5 years.

[@kristalpower292]

The local library is also a great place to go if you want the experience of reading books without the cost.

[@TB_lady]

Baby Merino might be a good idea to use for a baby blanket eg. Drops, but other brands have them too. It's so soft 🤩 plus machine washable.

[@Wearewoolpeople]

I think your ranunculus looks great as it is, the colour is lovely - it contrasts beautifully with your hair. I’m knitting with spolight nuboo too, it’s an unpleasant experience as you mentioned but also agree the resulting silky weighty fabric is worth it. Your editing is also so good for a beginner I get the feeling you would succeed at pretty much anything you turned your mind to. ❤ I like bendigo cotton for baby blankets.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

That is so kind of you to say, thank you so much! 🩷 Oh yes, Bendigo cotton is a beauty and I can imagine would be wonderful for a baby blanket.

[@jackiep9435]

Enjoying all your videos.. do what brings you joy 😊 your sweater looks very nice on you just the way it is!!

[@pinelmj]

Hi! I was a crocheter and it took me a long time to get the knack of knitting but every year or so I would try it, it is not until I found out about circular needles that my skills and love for knitting developed as I did not feel handcuffed to my work feeling that I always had to end my row before putting in down. For the baby yarn, the crazy sock lady just made a beautiful blanket with Lion Brand Mandala cake and it looks like a very good yarn for this type of projects. I used bernat softee baby cotton yarn for my kids when they were little and the blanket hold well thru time and could be use all year around as it was not too hot in the summer. I also made hoodies with that yarn. Good luck with your project.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello! Oh yes, circular needles are a total game changer, aren't they. Great yarn suggestions, thank you!

[@A_knitters_suitcase]

This was a nice episode...well done on trying to improve your videos at each episode! I am so glad to see your channel grow. Keep going and happy knitting! x

[@jodydcrawford5470]

Lovely episode, Nadine. Not sure how much knitting you got done, but you kept me company so achieved something! I learned very basic knit and purl as a 6 yo, and would sporadically pick it up again every now and again. I would only ever knit straight things, so definitely not garments. Covid prompted me to pick up needles as a coping mechanism when I had to home-school my child, and I taught myself way more skills. I’m still not a confident garment knitter, but will have a go at most other things. I’m also a voracious reader! I used to read while walking to work. As far as baby blankets go, Laura Penrose has a really cute blanket out at the moment with mitred squares that look fresh and modern, but if you are looking for something more delicate, I love that Kim from Knit Together with Kim and Jonna has modified the Vailke by Isobell Kraemer to be a baby blanket. I’d be inclined to knit it in a sport or DK weight yarn, and I’d go for a cotton or superwash yarn.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hahah it definitely wasn't a lot of knitting, that's for sure! Maybe I'll get better at knitting on camera with some practice. Oh gosh yes I can imagine that would have been quite stressful - some of my colleagues were home schooling their children through covid as well and I have no idea how you all managed it. It's great that knitting was able to help you a little bit! Hilariously I also used to read while walking to work 😂 A great way to do it, I think! Oh yes, that one is a beautiful pattern. Thank you!

[@janice4892]

I really like the knit you are wearing! The colour looks great on you! I have the pattern on my to do list and seeing yours has inspired me to give it a go! I just found your podcast and really enjoyed it.😊

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much !

[@AngieR1234]

Another lovely video thanks. Just a shout out for Brisbane Libraries as you can access free eAudiobooks as well as eBooks if you are a member 😊. Also Bendigo Woollen Mills have some affordable options and you can ask for a free sample card so you can see all the colours and get an idea of the texture.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

A great shoutout and recommendation! 🩷

[@southpaw487]

Hi Nadine - I've been enjoying all your videos, including this one. Regarding books - I also love them (and Kindle and Audible). I worked in a library as a teen and that was heaven! Regarding knitting - it's bittersweet - I knitted in my teens (1970s) learning combination knitting and I'm left-handed, so I mirror knit. I was really slow and gave up after only finishing one thing (fisherman afghan that I still have). My husband passed away in late 2020 (not from covid) after I had just retired in 2019. Things were still isolated, so I started to watch KZbin and learned to knit non-combination continental and watched some left-handed videos. So, I still mirror knit but, after dropping combination, it became easier when I have to adapt for the mirror knitting. I have a sis-in-law who encouraged me the past couple of years and still does, so I'm really lucky.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello and thank you so much for sharing your story here! Working in a library sounds AMAZING. Maybe the best job to have as a teen?! That is bittersweet (and I'm sending you all my love). I'm so glad that knitting was able to keep your hands nice and busy during and after covid. Your sis-in-law sounds like a gem! 🩷

[@jenniferbailey365]

Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@Jennie8684]

My cousin taught me to knit when I was 4; she was 8. I knitted regularly as a child, mostly dolls’ clothes. (Weirdly, I didn’t play with my dolls just knitted them garments and designed and built houses for them.) When I was at Uni, I knitted constantly, typically garments for myself. I stopped knitting in my early 20s as I started suffering with pain in my hands. I restarted in 2020 and am obsessed. I love all the newer techniques, amazing yarns and modern designs. The quality of my garments has improved dramatically.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

You must have been devastated to have to stop knitting in your 20s! Especially if you were on a roll with your garments. But fabulous to hear that you were able to pick it up again (hopefully with less / no hand pain this time round). Thanks for sharing here 😊

[@teresahammett2200]

Your videos are very professional and have great content. I love your natural style! Thanks.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

I really appreciate this, thank you!! 🩷

[@marycase9352]

I have enjoyed making the Best Friend Butterfly Blanket by Leslie Friend. Easy blanket but fun to make the bow or butterfly stitch she uses in it.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thanks for the great recommendation!

[@woolaroundtheworld]

Hey. I barely read since I knit. So good on you you find time for both. Greetings from India

[@myotheroption1]

Favourite baby blanket yarn is Cumulus by Juniper Moon Farms. It's cotton and so soft and so easy to knit with!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

I looked this yarn up after seeing your comment and it is BEAUTIFUL. Thank you!

[@tracalinajohnston5413]

Your Ranunculus is just gorgeous on you. I made one out of cotton and had the same issue that the neck line grew too much when blocked. I tried elastic sewn into it and it made a huge difference. Now I wear it . Ha! I adore your podcasts and am thrilled I found you here on KZbin. Your knitting is beautiful and now I need to try that sock yarn as it’s so pretty! Love all your video formats and I will always be here each week to watch :)

[@YourKnittingBestie]

You're too kind!! Thank you so much for your lovely comment. I'm sure I'll come back here and read it again if I need some encouragement. I think you will totally love the sock yarn, it's a real treat! Thanks again and talk soon 🩷

[@karenjordan1822]

Another great podcast! I really enjoy your format. Keep it up 👍

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you!! 🩷

[@bjrudin]

Love your podcast! Also love Kaci and Rebecca too!!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you! They are so much fun to watch :D

[@sjorchatodman34]

I really do love your Ranunculus and the colour really suits you. Fiddlesticks Superb 8 is a wonderfully soft, anti pill 8ply premium quality acrylic yarn for baby blankets. Fiddlesticks has survived my daughter in-law's ruthless washing style, so it's the best I can recommend. My mother taught me to knit when I was 5. No one knew back then that I'm autistic with a huge side serve of ADHD, so I'd come home from school overwhelmed and ping ponging off the walls as she called it, so she made me knit for at least an hour after school, then after dinner. I have fond memories of my dad, mum and myself all knitting, watching a TV show. The trouble was, the metal knitting needles were painful to my ears, the grating sound was unbearable. My mum once held me straight, because I was rocking & gasping for breath, I couldn't knit, I learned that by sitting cross legged, no one could see my toes squirm in response. As soon as I left home, I refused to knit, but I missed it. It wasn't till i was in therapy that I mentioned I love knitting but the sound of the metal needles, oof. My therapist, pulled out her knitting, she was using laminated wood needles, she let me have a try - THE world became new - the beauty of noiseless knitting!. I haven't stopped knitting since! Though I've learnt a lot of the expertise through youtube knitting channels and knitting podcasters, always learning

[@sjorchatodman34]

Forgot to add, If you haven't discovered Christopher of Flannel & Purls channel yet, go find him! He presents in a few different formats, I love his 'At the table' episodes, where he is just knitting and chatting about anything, he is a mesmerising story teller. Enjoy

[@YourKnittingBestie]

@@sjorchatodman34 I will definitely be looking into Fiddlesticks Superb 8 after your comment - if it survives ruthless washing, it sounds like one I need to try. What an interesting introduction to knitting, thank goodness for your therapist and her wood needles! I've never thought of how the noise from metal needles could be so difficult for some people - a great thing to be aware of and keep in mind. 🩷

[@YourKnittingBestie]

@@sjorchatodman34 I will look him up right now! I love him on Insta but haven't seen his videos yet. I bet they're awesome.

[@QuietlyCraftyLindaC]

Love your knit and chat this week! I think your Ranuculus is gorgeous and I love the color but I think you should do with it what brings you joy. ❤ One of the other attorneys in my group is pregnant with her first child, so I will also be knitting a blanket in a few months. I live in Florida so it will probaby be something decorative to go with her nursery theme rather than a warmth item, but I think it will be fun. I might make a lovey as well. Thanks for sharing- I think you are a natural at vlogging and your videos are a joy to watch. Take care!!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you mentioned that you're doing a blanket to match her nursery theme. I'm going to check with my friend to see if she has any ideas in mind as well. Thanks again for your lovely comment 🩷

[@jennyp7084]

Such a lovely channel. Which you tubers were good for beginning knitting ideas? Also, it would be great to see a wip video once a month?

[@sharelleshobbies]

Loved the video! For babies I always used acrylic, but I’ve heard merino is good too.

[@julieforseen1738]

Loved your sweet podcast

[@lankakaaos]

Thank you for lovely knit and chat! I was knitting Tin can knits Harvest cardigan with you. I hope I get this finished soon. I would like to wear this outside like jacket. Most days it’s too warm to wear winter parka and it’s too cold to wear summer jackets. So this would be perfect time for cardigan. I would use some plant fiber that can be washed in 60c wash. There is many nice bamboo, cotton and bamboo-cotton blends I would suggest. I’m knitting a baby blanket out of superwash merino, but I live in Finland and here merino will get more use beacause it is warm fiber. I’m still very tempted to make summer blanket ot of plant fibers for that baby because she/he hopefully will born during our summer. I also love reading. Now I feel fortunate that we have free librarys here. So I can get most of the books I read from there. I like e books on vacations. Don’t need to carry a pile of books with me. I listen audiobooks when I’m doing something charted like lace or stranded knitting. I just get frustrated with audiobooks because they read so slow and sometimes you can’t take faster speed because the voise of the reader goes too chirpy. Hope you will find nice yarn and pattern for that baby blanket.

[@loispatrick2594]

I used to use Zhivago yarn for all my baby blankets. It is so soft and washable. Unfortunately it had been discontinued 😢 I would highly recommend using yarn that has some tencel i it as it has a wonderful drape and my blankets could also be used as swaddles because of this. I primarily use the grandma's Dishcloth pattern for the blankets and crochet a long chain strand to thread into the holes around the edges (I double knot the bows) I also think your ranunculus looks great. Bear in mind that if you undo your ribbing and don't knit some other sort of edging, that your stocking stitch will roll on the edge.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Some great information in this comment, thank you!

[@louisecarlin9210]

Love the top you’re wearing, love everything about it… would you share the pattern please 🙏 ❤

[@sheilamccart7553]

I have just made the “window pane blanket” a free pattern in the Morris Empire 8ply an Australian store, it is beautiful and was gifted to a colleague.

[@tanjascholten4336]

I enjoied all your videos. Do what makes you happy. Thank you Nadine ❤

[@YourKnittingBestie]

I'm so glad to hear it, thank you!! 🩷

[@sammy1269]

I'm really enjoying your podcast, thank you! I've made some great baby blankets with a bamboo cotton mix, the yarn is soft and machine washable. Last well too. One friend has a son that is 10 years old now and he still kept the blanket, and surprisingly it looks like new

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Wow, that is some great durability! I'm so happy to hear you're enjoying the podcast so far, thank you!

[@louisecarlin9210]

Spotlight acrylic….cheap leads than $3 a ball lots of colour choice. I recently made a beautiful shawl so soft and washable in a washing bag on gentle wash. Used no more than 6 balls … in all honesty I just realised I crocheted it so it would use a little less if knitted. I have knitted baby shawls in the past.

[@valeriemoorcroft6838]

Hi, I'm in the ÙK. My Nana taught me to knit when I was a young girl. She crocheted and sewed, too. I wasn't interested at the time to learn to crochet but have taught myself since. Your Ranunculus is lovely and suits you, but if you're not happy with the colour, I would definitely try to dye it. I really enjoy your videos. Thank you.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

How wonderful to have learned from your Nana! She sounds very talented. Thank you for your lovely comment 🩷

[@janprattley3312]

Hi I have just found you, is getting cooler here in New Zealand.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello and welcome! 😊

[@Jules_W]

My grandmother taught me how to knit as a teenager. I knitted one or two things then stopped knitting for about 20 years. For me I find knitting relaxing now and have about 4 WIPS.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

With 4 WIPs at any given moment, you will make up for lost time! 😁

[@leonelsalazar9978]

You Can Also Do Q And A Videos And Live Steams!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Great ideas! Thank you 🩷

[@lavendercottagefibrearts]

i think if you bind off with just the stockinette the edge will roll up a bit which i've seen a rolled edge as a sleeve finish on a few tops. otherwise you could do the i-cord bind off that the long sleeve version uses, although maybe go up a needle size as where the sleeve length sits you don't want it to be too tight. in the long sleeve version she has you go down a needle size for the i-cord bind off but i think that's intended to go around the wrist so the smallest circumference of the arm i guess. fwiw i think your podcast editing skills are great!!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thanks so much 🩷 Yes, that's a good point on the rolling edge - perhaps the I-cord is the way to go!

[@roseb4988]

Just come across your podcast Nadine, so beautiful 🧶

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you so much!

[@janetshepherd9062]

Audio books and knitting!

[@YourKnittingBestie]

A match made in heaven!

[@verenameyer9046]

Hello from switzerland 🇨🇭i love Australiea …. And your Podcast is great. Love it🧶🧦👌

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello! Thank you so much 🩷

[@xusblasco5563]

Truly enjoyable, and so sweet ❤ Thanks, Nadine 🪁💌

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Thank you! 🩷🩷

[@bevabberley1524]

You asked about suggestions for a baby blanket. Have you considered knitting a baby shawl knit in a fine ply, with your climate it may be more useful. I have knit many for my own children and grandchildren and become an heirloom.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Oh yes, that's a good suggestion, thank you!

[@marie-francepoulaert8939]

Hi! I have knit baby blankets in Berrocco vintage DK yarn. It washes well and is nice to work with. I have also knit for babies with Drops baby merino, that’s a fingering yarn you can double up if you are knitting dk projects, very soft and nice to work with

[@cradock38]

Found your channel. A Ranunculus fan! Also want to make a baby blanket so will be interested in your yarn and pattern choice. Probably want to make a couple (baby on horizon only)- one at least in a cotton mixture as live in Spain and summers can be very hot.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello and welcome! Oh yes a cotton blend sounds like a fantastic idea, especially for your summers. There are so many great baby blanket patterns out there for inspiration, I'm having a lot of fun planning for this project 😊

[@PatriciaWales02]

Hi Nadine, I have made some baby things with Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino which is sport weight and very nice. Have also used Patons Dreamtime 4 ply quite a lot. Have also used angora a bit. Any sock yarn you like would also do.

[@YourKnittingBestie]

Hello! Both of those yarns made my list after some research, so I'm feeling very proud of myself after reading that you like the as well 😁

[@judithtaylor6916]

Can you please tell me how many grams of yarn on average do you require for the Ranunculus. I would only do the smallest size. It's a bit vague, as no particular yarn is listed. Re books. Join your local library it's free. The library should have Libby or Borrow Box - free book/audio apps. Adagio Mills have a beautiful soft 4ply Alpacca/Merino yarn. But it has to be hand washed, which I have purchased for my future granddaughter.Judith fm Sth Australia.

[@janet_Luv2_Knit]

I’m enjoying your videos. Can you let me know what your favorite yarn stores are in Brisbane as I have family there that would be interested. Thanks

[@YourKnittingBestie]

I'm glad to hear it! At the moment, I'm loving The Little Yarn Store (in Taringa) and The Yarn Bowl (in Banyo).

[@maureenott214]

💖💖💖

[@lawyer-skp]

Are you an attorney? I see a book on evidence in your bookcase. Takes one to know one 😂