MEL MAKES STUFF 🧶 ALL Of My Current Projects - Knitting, Sewing, Spinning - And Some Plans For 2024

[@valturner2151]

Oo, oo! I’m the sister!!! I am sooo excited to have that sweater in my wardrobe, but zero pressure! Whenever it arrives, I’ll be thrilled. I just LOVE this episode. Listening to you revisit all these amazing projects with such thoughtfulness was the joy of my morning. ❤❤❤

[@melmakesstuff]

❤️❤️❤️ I can’t wait to see it on you!!!

[@hotoilin]

Yes, great to see a new video. Love your content, one of the best knitting podcasts around.

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you so much!! 🥰

[@lawyer-skp]

I was beginning to worry about you! So happy to see you again. 😊😊😊

[@betternpopcorn]

You are one of the few podcasters that I actively search to make sure I haven’t accidentally missed an episode. I really enjoy each episode and look forward to seeing each of your unique projects. I hope you enjoy the new balance you find. Everything you plan to finish looks like it will add something special to your life. Hugs from Deb from Florida.

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you Deb!! ❤️

[@bibliothekla]

That FO shawl looks perfect with your coat; it's too bad that it was difficult to get through, but you DID get through it and the finished product is lovely. And the color combo you used for that FO sweater is also great. You have so many WIPs of all different kinds! I think your idea of making the crochet squares into pillows would totally work. And I love your cross-stitch project, too - you've discovered that it's not really your jam, totally fair, but the end product is gonna be pretty fun to look at anyway :) Deleting all the "scrolly apps" sounds like it's been super beneficial for you. I have to step back from social media and similar semi-addictive type of content regularly, too. It can be difficult to find a good balance but it sounds like you're on the right track!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you so much! I think I’m starting to lean towards the pillow idea for the crochet squares…

[@r.mcd2921]

Thank you for your terrific content. I enjoy and learn from each of them. I do have a tip for both the cross stitch and needlepoint projects: Make a color copy of the patterns, then use a ruler to draw a grid in black every 10 stitches, horizontally and vertically. Use sewing thread to do the same on your fabric. This makes it much easier to assess stitch placement, especially for those random bits of color. It should speed your process tremendously. When you find you no longer need it, just pull out the black thread.

[@rutharseneault5745]

Yay! It made my day to have a Mel podcast to knit to.

[@sharonmccarthy8181]

About the crochet project - I saw some beautiful granny square sweaters and jackets on Ravelry. There was also a video on KZbin that looked very simple. Your squares would look beautiful for that.

[@jeanlong1400]

Would you think about a dress for the gradient yarn or a coat? So happy to see you podcast again. Your makes are so inspiring.

[@josjewosje]

I'm always happy when you post a video, thank you! If you lived around the corner, I would happily knit the large gauge needle project for you, but since i live far away, it will not work. But maybe do a swap with someone? A biggg loungewear sweater would work for the fade you are spinning, if you don't want to knit another blanket. Or use your knitting machine? I had to stop using Instagram and most news channels since the beginning of October because I received death threats. It has opened my eyes to how much time got lost in my days by using it. Good luck with using your time in a way that feels good.

[@julieflynn6496]

I would gift the crochet sampler blocks as an afghan to someone with no pets. It is beautiful!

[@yaelschlick1496]

So glad to see your podcast again! Your take is unique, and I find I always learn and get inspired to be more ambitious from your projects. I also love that you knit things that aren’t in the top ‘40’. One gets tired of seeing all those Petit knits slipovers, the field sweaters, the arctic bloom sweaters, and whatever Andrea Mowry came out with last… while those are great, it gets boring to see the same patterns getting made. So thank you for injecting some diversity and originality into the knitting podcast sphere. I am literally going to my bookcase now to pull out my copy of Poetry in Stitches by Solveig Hisdal and will begin swatching for a sweater in there I’ve always wanted to make…as inspired by your adventurous making!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you, I really appreciate your feedback! I’m not familiar with the Hisdal book but will add that to my list to check out soon 🥰

[@sheila-13]

So glad to see you back! I was getting worried 😉. I really enjoy your makes and thoughtful comments. I’m currently working on my second Marie Wallin and one day I’ll do the club.

[@judyperodeau4945]

Thanks Melissa wonderful show 😃👏🏼🧶

[@alysonrodrigues122]

I was so happy to see you had posted a vlog. Your work is beautiful as usual. Please post again soon.

[@karenl5602]

I was really happy to see your new video! I appreciate your thoughtful work. I have also backed out of most online content to rest my brain and it’s been soooo helpful. I am very selective about what I consume just to preserve mental health. More time for knitting which is much healthier. 😊. Happy 2024.

[@ingaschindler3244]

Thanks for this video, good to hear from you again. Love the part, whem you talk about rebelling against your own plan, when they are to rigid…

[@nadinegoffart487]

Thanks for sharing! Especially the Cameo vest by Orlane Sucche. It will also be on my needles soon. And in 2024 I will also knit my first Marie Wallin sweater: Raven Fairisle yoke - an easy start. Happy knitting ❤

[@margaretmurray5053]

I'm delighted to see you're back, my favourite channel!

[@melmakesstuff]

🥰 thank you!!

[@brenna1066]

So lovely to hear from you!

[@FiberTrek]

Oh the pants! I'm glad they made the cut. I thumb those books often. I've been working on a duster for AGES! I'm inspired to pull it out and bring it to the top of the pile. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@melmakesstuff]

Oh I hope you pull the duster back out! An AC duster is one of my dream projects for sure ❤️

[@nadinedetain6765]

Hello, love your vidéos. Suggestion on how to use the squares and not let them be destroyed by animals is to used them as lavender pouches for drawers. Perhaps necesary to make fabric lining, but great project to recycle blancket pièces you do not finish.

[@woolgatheringfran]

So happy to see you again! Your projects are always so exciting and inspiring, I can't wait to see them completed! I'm rooting for you!

[@genier7829]

This was a great video- I, too, am a multi craft person. Right now quilting and knitting are competing for my time so everything takes longer to finish. I love the brown/pink color of the Augustines sweater, I hope you can finish it despite the tedious work involved. my suggestion for the yarn gradient is a linen stitch blanket called Woven-look Throw. I have this in my queue, I plan to use dk weight wool, instead of acrylic. It would be a great showcase for your spinning.

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you for this pattern suggestion - that might just be perfect!! Just added it to my favorites for 2024 😊

[@ProPollys]

Been missing you so much. Yay🎉

[@AgithaCreates]

the NYT comments section... it's too real haha I'm happy to see you again, I always enjoy your videos so much 🩷

[@paulahutchinson4312]

I have a lk150 knitting machine. I knit the yokes by hand too. I then knit the body and sleeves on the machine and Kitchener stitch them to the yoke. It avoids stretching the yoke and it’s still faster than knitting the whole sweater by hand.

[@ingeborggroth1415]

Oooh, I was so happy to see you again here!! I love your content and your ‚no-frills’ approach, always inspiring. I could listen to you for ages. You put a big smile on my face during the complete episode. Thank you so much for sharing. Greetings from Munich 🙋‍♀️

[@melmakesstuff]

Aww thank you so much 🥰

[@micheleleblanc9336]

Happy New Year & welcome back! About those crochet squares... crochet plain squares & triangles, & join them to make a triangle shawl out of them; or crochet plain squares & make a wrap or sweater or vest; or on the felted bag idea - sew them onto a felted, or sewn bag if they are crocheted with superwash yarn; sew them together & line them to make a project bag; sew them onto the back of a quilt to add a bit of spark to the quilt back. Happy Crafting! 😊

[@cindyfrye3026]

The crochet blocks can also be made into a wall hanging. Or framing them might be nice. I would recommend not using wool as a hot pad. It is not as thermal resistive as cotton, and would probably need too much washing.

[@amberjadefjohnson9474]

Your back!😂😂❤❤😂😂 we missed you.

[@Nathalie_knits_all_the_time]

An idea for your crochet squares would be to frame them. Mine is a perfect number for wall art 😊

[@sandraniklas7784]

Great to see you again Mel, it’s been awhile. I can’t believe all the projects in all the different forms - awesome.

[@nagaratnasarvadevabatla4465]

Was patiently waiting for your video...very informative as always.

[@sandranewman8191]

I am so glad to hear from you again. You are so mindful in your crafting. Love your New Year’s resolution!

[@goswamigeeta]

Interesting video. Lots of creative things. Thanks for sharing.

[@nadiarogo4511]

So happy to see a new podcast episode from you! You definitely made my week uploading it :) Thank you! I have been binging your older videos in the meantime - so much to learn and be inspired by! I'm knitting my 4th project from a Japanese book and also the first knitted skirt. Having loved the Peggy Sweater by Lene Holme Samsøe, I'm now on her Rita skirt which is quite a fun commute knitting for me as well as her Anemone cardigan. I recently discovered Holst Supersoft+Titicaca yarn combination and enjoying it too. Can't wait to see how your projects will come along this year :)

[@melmakesstuff]

I need to try Holst Supersoft! I keep hearing so many good things about it.

[@nadiarogo4511]

@@melmakesstuff Pre-washing is key :D

[@dianesullivan9809]

So glad to see you back with a new video and such beautiful, thoughtful knitting, as always.

[@chrisbrown2820]

Hello! Today my periodic search for new, Mel Makes Stuff, videos paid off! Thrilled to see a new KZbin!! For the crochet project, my first thought was for an autumn table runner. Don't know if you are into table runners but this is what I jumped to as soon as I saw the squares. I really like the colors you chose for the squares and the patterns are beautiful. Love all your videos!

[@kameliapandaklieva2453]

Happy to see you again, Mel! Thank you especially for your thoughts on the Windy Fields shawl. It's been on my mind. It just so happens that as I was watching your video I was knitting on an oversized sweater that is knitted with a single strand of silk mohair on 3 mm needles and is supposed to need 6 balls, and looking at where I'm at with the third ball, it will indeed take 6, and boy is this a lot of work. I'll keep this in mind for the shawl (which, judging by what I'm seeing and your account... will be a lot more work). Funny thing is, I've knitted the Ranunculus in a single strand of mohair with the recommended 6 mm needles and it took the most of 5 balls. I'd think, if it's a lot more work, it'd require a lot more yarn. Apparently not when the yarn is so thin compared to the needle size - I do need some more yarn for the same size but the work required is a lot more, times more. It is hard on my wrists and hands, too, which I knew it would be but oh well... Your shawl is very beautiful, perfect execution as always. And I am looking forward to your update on the Melancholy sweater and your thoughts on it. I've been very intrigued ever since you first talked about it.

[@miche_line]

Happy New Year, Mel! I was so happy when I saw there was a new episode available that I couldn't click on it fast enough! Your podcast is one of my favorites and I have learned so much from it! ❤

[@melmakesstuff]

❤️❤️❤️

[@nancyhughes386]

Nice to see you again. Can’t wait to see how your projects come out. I took IG off my phone years ago. It was such a time waster for me. I still have an account and use it but not constantly.

[@aditurtle]

I couldn’t click fast enough, I love your videos and the discussion about why and how of all your makes. It has really helped me be more mindful with my creations and opened my eyes to more patterns and designs rather than just what the algorithms throw at me. Thank you!

[@virginiasattler-reimer9554]

I feel you on the deeply rebellious nature. It amuses me that I am also a list/goal lover. Whatever, I just roll with it. Lovely to see you back! Oh, and you might like to look at the bigger, newer Bohus book, it's really worth having.

[@melmakesstuff]

Thanks so much for mentioning the newer Bohus book - that sent me down a rabbit hole trying to figure out which one it was yesterday, but I found it and will order it!!

[@virginiasattler-reimer9554]

You won't regret it, it's excellent. There is also a lovely group on Ravelry of Bohus enthusiasts, and some folks have quite a bit of experience with using a machine for the body. Beware though, the rabbit hole leads to gorgeous kits from Angora Garnet, and they are spendy. 😅@@melmakesstuff

[@cuddlingcuddles]

Nice to see another video from you. Was looking out for another episode. For this year, I have decided to be more mindful of what pattern I choose to knit, so that I end up with statement pieces.

[@melmakesstuff]

This sounds like a fun exercise!!

[@catherinekillen4778]

Very happy to see your podcast pop up yesterday! I always enjoy seeing your work!

[@PoodleCream]

Happy New Year 🎉 I am definitely one of your fans who has been checking your channel often since your last episode. Wish you all the best in the new year!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you so much, and happy new year to you too!

[@KnittingThroughIt]

I want more Mel Makes Stuff... but I know what I love is how much thought you put into your knitting and sharing it with us! So I can wait. So excited to see you posted!

[@annevanvliet7662]

Oh yesssss!! Great to see a new episode!🎉❤

[@heatheraspinall1493]

Greetings from Scotland.... and all the best for 2024. Great to see you as always. Lerwick...the w is silent. Regards Heather

[@dogandcrafterinaboat]

I was looking forward to your video!!!!

[@carlafawcett6494]

Fabulous podcast!!

[@mmeicha108]

I am so thrilled that you are still making videos. I have loved every single one of your posts. I haven’t found anyone else who approaches content the same way you do: I learn so much and can’t get enough!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you, that’s so nice to hear!!

[@jetv1471]

I appreciate the blanket info ! Ty !looking forward to the Sleeve mods a I frequently need them. You TOTALLY described my bed lol… gets “real” “fun” when menopause sets in 🙄 Is YT a “scrolling app”? 😉.. I would not have found your vlog 😱

[@lisafall3561]

Working on my Lerwick right now. Restarting it, hoping to finish it over the next few months

[@shreyaknits]

Love your videos!!! Your projects are unique and gorgeous - you could make a tote/handbag with those crochet squares!

[@theknittystew]

SO many great projects, plans and intentions. You make me want to expand my craft life and try other things - apart from knitting! Some great food for thought around consuming less - including content. Seriously, I COULD actually read an entire book if I deleted the scrolly apps. Love your Channel. Thank you for posting!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you so much Leanne!! It seemed like a big decision when so much of the online knitting discourse takes place on IG… we’ll have to see if any FOMO develops 🤣. Glad that we can still always connect here on KZbin 🥰

[@lauralynn3043]

Happy New Year, Mel. Great episode, so good to see you again! :)

[@nancyhildebrant9432]

So happy to see you here again to share your knitting ideas with us. You always inspire me.

[@efenwick8608]

Welcome back Mel! Thrilled to see your newest video. I binged all your episodes during your hiatus & then was in withdrawal until new content was available! I have found your videos SO helpful & inspiring. In fact, I just bought some Berroco Lana’s Light wool to knit a color-work vest which will be my 1st steeking project! I’m struggling with the swatch & not sure if you have any advice . I’m trying the carry over method with the yarn around the back. How wide do you typically make your swatches? Ironically I just finished a scrappy mitered square blanket for my daughter this Christmas (took me from April to December 2023). I love all your yoke sweaters as well. I live in CT & am always cold here, too… plus we just got more snow yesterday. Anyways, very excited to see what you’re up to. I feel more confident in my Berroco yarn purchase now, too, if you’re also using it! Good luck & keep up the great content! ❤

[@melmakesstuff]

Your first steeking project, that’s exciting! For swatches I do the carry over method too. I usually make them the width of the gauge given in the pattern, plus 6-10 stitches. So if the pattern gauge is 28 sts over 10cm, I usually make my swatch 34-38 sts wide.

[@MrsKWheatley]

What a pleasure to see you again - you have been missed x

[@ChristineSK]

So happy to see a new video! I found your channel last few months and have happily watched all of them. :)

[@Vompan58]

So glad that you’re back and all fine things you’re working on ❤

[@LadyOfLaMancha19]

Mel! I haven't watched the video yet, but I am so glad to see that you're back!

[@lizlikestoknit]

I really look forward to these episodes. Love your thoughtful making and project selection - thanks for the time you put into these! I think the polly plum sampler would possibly go well as a sort of modern tapestry? so that your dog doesn't casually lean on them as pillows, some unique wall art, and help keep the house insulated. maybe once it's joined, you could crochet a channel at the top and get a dowel to hang it from?

[@melmakesstuff]

This is a great idea, thank you!

[@BrendaBeckett-ob8wf]

I was happy to see another video from you. I also bought a knitting machine with the intent of knitting the body and sleeves of yoked sweaters. I repaired it, learned how to use it, and have made a few sweaters. I did mine the other way though - I knit the body pieces and sleeves first on the machine, then joined in the round and knit the yokes by hand. Kate Davies describes it in her Yokes book, with the Cockatoo Brae. That’s the first one I knit. I actually joined Crafts for a year and watched some videos on machine knitting. Good luck!

[@melmakesstuff]

Ahhh bottom up would definitely have been the smarter thing to do, as far as learning how to do this. Thanks for the tip about the Kate Davies book, I’ll check that out!

[@tejkaur8409]

Yay🎉! New episode! Been watching less KZbin lately, but just had to watch your new episode straight away as I do so enjoy them. Lovely WIPs, all worth finishing in my opinion. Hope your 2024 is filled with mindfulness and presence.

[@melmakesstuff]

That’s such a compliment, thank you! Best wishes for the new year to you too ❤️

[@nicolanoller9264]

Delighted to see you pop up on my feed! It’s been soooo loooong 🎉

[@meganolivia6970]

I'm very happy to see you again Mel! You've been missed. I hope your holidays were lovely 😊 Looking forward to seeing your progress on your projects as always!

[@Linda-r7n8n]

I like your hair!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you so much!!😊

[@donnamoore8100]

It was wonderful to see the variety of makes.

[@threestitchcatery]

Hey Mel😊great to see you. As always beautiful makes and thoughtful content

[@songbirdsadeknits]

So nice to watch a new video of yours! Thanks for making it. Looking forward to the next one.

[@arsg66]

Thank you for the project updates and plans. I always admire the complex works you pursue and it’s interesting to hear about your process.

[@marleenhallink180]

Yess,you are back 😁

[@elianaalfonso7703]

How lovely to get another Mel video! That’s an amazing number of wips. Look forward to seeing how they come along. Thanks for the great episode.

[@mariagarder]

Finally a new episode, yay! 🎉

[@jacquelynjones6364]

Yay! Thanks for making this episode, its really enjoyable.

[@katerinamelin734]

So glad to see you back ! I love your videos so much!

[@melmakesstuff]

❤️❤️❤️

[@streakyj2]

i chuckled--love the cross-stitch project with the field, and it looks almost done (?) 🙂. i have 2 KF books full of color, and i mostly just page thru them for fun [and house envy]; that needlepoint face looks alive, maybe bc of all those single sts? ... here's to a happy &healthy 2024 for you & the DH in your new home!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you, happy new year to you too!

[@cassafrass098]

Happy new year! I've been looking forward to seeing your next video and it totally delighted me, I loved seeing all your WIPs. Clearing the backlog and knowing what you're facing always makes me feel really purposeful.

[@melmakesstuff]

Purposeful, that’s a great word for how I’m feeling! The long-hibernating projects all seemed a bit scary when they were packed away, but I feel more confident now 😊

[@melmakesstuff]

And happy new year to you too!

[@Dreamknitgirl-1]

Happy New Year! So happy to see you here. I am also doing a fix it, frog it, finish it and forward it with my knits this year before casting on. I’m up to six things in those categories so I totally agree with you. I took an online class with Jennifer Parrocccini about judging patterns. Great class. She talks a lot about yoked sweaters and necks and how some patterns create a funnel or cone shape. I was wondering about your knitted fo that is top down and has the flea pattern on the body. It looks different from your other two yokes that you will machine knit the bodies. You probably already know this. Just a thought. I haven’t made a goal about sewing or starting a crochet project (I just learned) I got a new sewing machine and still have to get over my fear of it (ridiculous). I’ve sewn a lot, especially bags. I really want to make Anna’s oxbow tote and use what I already own. I’m gonna check out your open box pouch too. Thank you for your inspiration. I love how you are not affiliated with a yarn com, store ,nor anything that is self-promoting. I feel you are genuine and I think we would be friends IRL. Be well and am looking forward to more of your makes!

[@melmakesstuff]

Fear of a new sewing machine is real! I think your plan of sewing up a tote to start getting used to the machine is a good one, I hope it goes well ❤️

[@canndell]

Like everyone else, I’m so happy to see your episode. I love that you are an advanced knitter and a multi-crafter! I think if I had the crochet squares I would think about making a project bag or a big tote with them. I have some felted bags, but I’m not sure if the crochet would look right felted, but that’s one idea.

[@melmakesstuff]

Ooo that’s an interesting idea… I’m pretty sure I used superwash yarn for this but I’ll have to double check!

[@cathiapizetta4957]

Glad seeing you’re back! Love all your work in progress! Looking forward to the next episode!❤

[@deborahcollins6249]

Great episode. Love your plan to consume less of some things, including media. My plans for the year are similar. Create (mostly) from what is already available to me and spend less time in front of screens. I'm excited for both of us!

[@brittanyinoregon]

Great video as always! I find a lot of value in your videos and the thought you put into your projects. I’m already looking forward to the next one.

[@anitaferguson814]

I’m new to watching you and love that you do so many crafts! You have maybe said this elsewhere it what is the sweater you are wearing in the video. So beautiful Thanks for sharing your story of crafting

[@melmakesstuff]

Welcome, I’m glad you found me! The one I’m wearing is the Kilim cardigan by Marie Wallin.

[@anitaferguson814]

Thanks.

[@natashaonis]

Yay! So happy whenever you drop a new ep!

[@melmakesstuff]

Thank you!! 🥰

[@Stumpybear7640]

Hi Mel, happy new year! Great to see you! You said Lerwick perfectly well. Love your vlog style and all your wips. Looking forward to you making your way thru them. Much love from Shetland xxx ❤

[@melmakesstuff]

Happy new year to you too! Thank you for confirming my pronunciation 😊

[@ceuser8144]

I think you should make a purse with your crochet squares

[@songbirdsadeknits]

Hm just noticed the Trinigan pattern in my favourites and thought perhaps you’d be able to make it work with some of your hand spun… Maybe in colour -blocked sections? Maybe it’d be too wild, but maybe not!

[@melmakesstuff]

Ooo that’s a thought, I do like the look of that pattern!

[@level2ginger]

Ooh I wonder what a fade duster would be like.

[@jimmydoesknitting]

Glad to see this pop up on my feed. I can't wait for the Japanese sweater video. It's quite the piece. Also, I've put that bohus book on my list. I've been trying to figure out where to get the mist pattern from Kiersten Olsen without buying the whole kit.

[@melmakesstuff]

I do want to buy one of those Bohus kits eventually, they’re so beautiful.

[@jimmydoesknitting]

@@melmakesstuff If I had the money, I'd place an order today. They are beautiful and that Angora yarn looks amazing.

[@postulatedspace]

So good to see you. Personally I don't know what is happening with your hair but I love it! You have so many projects going on. My goal for 2024 is to allow myself to stop working on projects I no longer enjoy. And be really honest about who is knit worthy.

[@melmakesstuff]

LOL sometimes I’m not sure what’s going on with my hair either 😂 I love your two goals for 2024, those are both great ❤️

[@algarvestrikk]

Those palazzo pants you have in progress with the vest you want to knit and the shirt you are planning. Unless you already thought of that (it is 5 months later after all).

[@melmakesstuff]

Ooo you’re right - those would all look great together! The pants are done and I haven’t started the other two yet, but this gives me some motivation to get started 🥰

[@mongrain8934]

You have so many beautiful and audacious projects! It's good to see you again.❤❤❤

[@alexandrah535]

Hmm, for the spinning gradient project, I’d probably just do something with what you’ve already spun, spin up the singles and do something separately with them (rather than trying to meticulously match) and then putting the leftover fleece back in your stash!

[@melmakesstuff]

I’m very tempted by this idea 😂

[@carolinvonfritsch5312]

Hi Mel, for your Augustins nutiden project, would you find someone who could finish it (for you)? It is so beautiful and would serve you so well...or any other person that fits...

[@wooling.around]

For the link to green gradient: make a long sleeve dress!

[@melmakesstuff]

Oh WOW now this is an epic idea - thank you!!

[@janetshepherd9062]

Love your hair and that sweater. Color really shows off your eyes! I feel like an underachiever.😂😂

[@melmakesstuff]

I can only occasionally get my act together like this, don’t feel like an underachiever 🤣

[@janetshepherd9062]

@@melmakesstuff just kidding about that. I am a different achiever.