Needles at the Ready: Episode 104

Episode 104 Show Notes
Instagram:
Needles at the Ready Podcast: @needlesatthereadypod
Kevin: @kevin.michael80
Ray: @ray.j.knits
Ravelry:
Ravelry Group: www.ravelry.com/groups/needle...
Ray: RayJKnits
Kevin: KevinMichael80
Discord: / discord
Website/Shop: www.needlesattheready.com
Use #NATRyarnCo on Instagram to show off your yarn and projects :-)
Email: [e-mail]
Ray’s Goodreads: / rayjknits
Mailing Address:
Needles at the Ready
PO Box 269
Stratford, CT 06615
Try Treats Affiliate Link:
Use Code: NEEDLESATTHEREADY for 15% off your first box!!
www.trytreats.com/?aff=1119
Jimmy Beans Wool Affiliate Link:
shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=182181...
Twice Sheared Sheep Affiliate Link:
twiceshearedsheep.com/ref/51/
Coupon and Discount Codes (Google Doc):
docs.google.com/document/d/1G...
Logo Design by: Mario Cabaccang
Instagram: @mariocabaccang
Local Yarn Shops (LYS):
Knit New Haven: www.knitnewhaven.com/
Pick up Every Stitch: www.pickupeverystitch.com/
Skein Yarn Shop: skeinyarnshop.com/
CHECK THESE OUT!!
Nursing Journal by Cynthia Martins: www.etsy.com/shop/RNReflectio...
Darn Knit Anyway: www.darnknitanyway.com/
Yarn Bodega GoFund Me: www.gofundme.com/f/the-yarn-b...
Finished Objects:
Ray:
Modified Sockhead: (based on two patterns) www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr... and www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Peace and Joy Socks: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Oisin: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Kevin:
Cozy Classic Raglan: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Baby Vertebrae: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Works in progress:
Ray:
Seith the Wensleydale Toft: www.toftuk.com/PD.aspx?produc...
Men’s Classic Raglan: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Ivon: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Vanilla Socks: Woolens and Nosh/ Earthtones Girl Collab - earthtonesgirl.com/collection...
Kevin:
Cozy Classic Raglan: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Jelly Roll Blanket: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Mussleburgh: www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Silver Springs Wall Hanging: hellobargello.com/collections...
Yarns we used or mentioned:
www.woolensandnosh.com
www.labienaimee.com/
myak.it/
loopfiberstudio.com/
hudsonandwestco.com/
www.knitpicks.com/
sonderyarnco.com/
www.hopemadeyarn.com/
asylumfibers.com/
trilogyyarn.com/
theknittingtreela.com/
Shops, Stores, and More:
Threads Bag Company: www.threadsbagcompany.com/
GoodNotes App: www.goodnotes.com
Madder Root: madderroot.com/
Erlbacher Knitting Machines: erlbacherknitting.com/
Simply Vintage Designs: www.etsy.com/shop/simplyvinta...
Fox and Pine Stitches: www.foxandpinestitches.com/
The Knitting Tree LA: theknittingtreela.com/
Toft: www.toftuk.com/
Thread and Maple: www.threadandmaple.com/
Katrinkles: katrinkles.com/
Hello Bargello: hellobargello.com/
Other Patterns We Talked About:
(What Ray is wearing) So Basic: boutiquelesgarcons.com/collec...
What we are reading:
Ray:
Finished: A Wizard of Earthsea (Earthsea Cycle 1) by Ursala K. Le Guin
Finished: A Psalm for the Wild-Built (Monk and Robot #1) by Becky Chambers
Reading: The Burning Witch 2 (The Burning Witch #2) by Delemhach
Listening to: Read Player 2 by Ernest Cline
Kevin:
Finished: Doom and Broom (Spellbound #2) by Annabel Chase
Finished: Spell’s and Bells (Spellbound #3) by Annabel Chase
Finished: Lucky Charm (Spellbound #4) by Annabel Chase
Reading: Better than Hex (Spellbound #5) by Annabel Chase

[@niknaiman5359]

"Who are we to be included...." Raymond (insert middle name) stop it right now! I think you VERY much undervalue what you mean to this community. There are 20 THOUSAND of us whose spirits are brightened every fortnight thanks to the two of you and your antics. You have this way of entertaining and getting others excited about knitting (felting, crocheting, etc) and I hope that another 20K find their way to you quickly. Write out your affirmation and tape it on your mirror "we have a special place in this community and we have earned that place by being who we are day after day!"

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Wow thanks! Great suggestion. Really appreciate the kind words 🥰🥰

[@jmcarella001]

Kevin, it's the tub scene, when she's sitting behind him telling him how long her legs are wrapped around him. I can just hear her voice!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Yes, totally the scene I was thinking of.

[@JessieB965]

Im catching up on this episode and just saw this lol I hear Julia Roberts’ voice (in Pretty Woman when she’s driving the Lotus) saying ‘Do you know your foot’s as big as your arm from your elbow to your wrist? Just a little bit of trivia’ lol If you’re ever in a pinch and don’t have your sock ruler…..

[@carrotlover7763]

Ray - thank you for sharing a resource for nurses and the comments about holding someone’s life in your hands. My husband had a heart attack in 2017, our local hospital stabilized him and life flighted him to OHSU in Portland, OR. He was hooked up to ECMO for 3 days until he had open heart surgery to replace a ruptured mitral valve. During the entire time he was in the hospital, he had the best care you can imagine. Nurses ARE what makes it happen and I can’t imagine how stressful your job is.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Oh wow I’m speechless…thank you and I’m so sorry you and your husband went through all that. Sending bigs hugs 🤗❤️❤️

[@barbaramcrae8425]

Quick input for now.....check out the Crazy Sock Lady's Ravelry page for the Jellyroll blanket! She does something different for picking up the stitches!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Barbara, I’ll take a look at her notes.

[@beckykerrigan9873]

As a retired nurse, you are making me cry thinking back on my career. I would have loved to have had this when I started out. I think this is a great gift to share with anyone I know who is starting their nursing career. Thank you for sharing!

[@ilovethegoddessshop]

I vote all salmon, no stripe-- that color is so beautiful-- deserves to stand alone!😍

[@mommathuss]

I agree or one stripe at CO edge and bind of edges of sleeves and bottom hem

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Agree, I'm not going to be adding the stripes.

[@diannacook6135]

Great visit, as always. Kevin, the crazy sock lady has a different way of attaching her jelly rolls. It on her Ravelry projects.x

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I'll take a look at her notes.

[@roxirossetti6250]

I wish they had the emotional support chickens in crochet. I would get some for sure.

[@lesliefuson7026]

I used to quilt, when I couldn't knit due to a hand issue, I had a quilt store 5 blocks from where I lived....lol, my best friend "helped" me sort my quilt kits and thus I was informed I was not allowed to buy any more kits until I finished at least half of the kits I already had...it was over 20 kits.....lol. Might I add, I'm back to knitting and she has almost all of the kits. Last October we made a quilt for my adult son from one of the kits I had, it was just shy of a king sized bed quilt, we got it on her long arm before I left at the end of my vacation week. Now I have more yarn than I can probably use in my lifetime...trade 1 expensive hobby for another. I understand the kit craze.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

LOL, kits and hobbies are so fun, you can never have too many.

[@jillfoster6369]

😂😂🤭🙈 not peeing or eating …….. so funny. Love it guys and loved his. Your breaking the bank makes me feel better so thank you.❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

😂, that is probably why we like when other channels show their purchases.

[@thekindles1183]

Always love watching you guys! Did you see Kay of Crazy Sock Lady has a detailed fix about how she does the join in the blanket? Your hat is beautiful, Ray! I knit two of those musselbrugh hats and they came out short/ small. Nurses are awesome. I appreciate them so much! - Kimberly

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Yes! Thank you! She’s so clever 😊

[@trishcostello813]

You guys should not be surprised to be asked to be interviewed, or that you gave 20K subscribers. Your chat is always entertaining, and informative, (especially some of the asides and facial expressions).You are both stirrers! .Your enjoyment of crafting has resonated with a lot of people and it is like you welcome us into your lives. That sweater really suits you Kevin,I wish my husband felt the cold a bit more, but more knitting for me I s’pose. The salmon colour will look fabulous and the small grey cast on too. The hat, oh my Ray, lovely. Again, my husband doesn’t wear hats!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Trish 😊

[@rhysmillington]

So glad that you have discovered TOFT. We love it here in the UK. Especially because Martyn from Knit 365 has championed them so well- you should check out his behind the scenes at TOFT. Also if you think your obsessed now Ray wait until you see their Advent! You will be a lifelong addict! 😊

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

I am so sure we will be making more, the yarn itself is worth it.

[@tbiles2706]

I cast on my emotional support chicken while watching tonight, I just bought the pattern as I had a BUNCH of scraps and small amount of yarn to use up. Loving the pattern so far. And about the snow, I am currently in Cape Breton Nova Scotia where there is now a state of emergency because of the snow this weekend - over 150cm over two days and it’s still coming down! 😂😂❄️☃️

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Yay! Hope you enjoy making it as much as we did. Hope you are staying safe and warm.

[@darylevangelista4758]

Ray, your sweater looks awesome too and looks great with your chocolate brown eyes!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you!!

[@valoriec]

Kevin, for the jelly roll blanket, you could do the stripes and then take a crochet hook and slip stitch join the pieces. :)

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

That is a good idea.

[@paulacummings966]

I saw the book about knitting the state parks at Charlotte Yarn when I was passing through North Carolina. They even had a sample knit up of a hat from the cover . It was very tempting, but I left it on the shelf. 😢

[@stephdeshong1240]

When my wrists ache from too much yarning, i wear compression gloves. The kind i use is called thergonomic hand aids. Ive used them for years. I can still knit and crochet while wearing them. Also, the pioneer gloves by kelly mcclure can be made with 23 grams of fingering weight yarn. I made 6 pairs this Christmas. I'm glad yall are feeling better. ❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Good to know, thank you.

[@gretchenmariee]

“Don’t try to micro machine us.” Hilarious (spit out my coffee) 😊.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

lol 😂

[@Princessbuddy123]

Kevin and Ray, great FOs and Ray, keep going with your granny stripe blanket and at the end, just crochet a border around it catching all of the ends in the border. Congrats on 20K and thank you for another great podcast.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you!!

[@mommathuss]

Y'all really need to do more lives cause I'm sitting here yelling all of the answers to you! The bubble bath Julia Robert's scene, the ridge on the Jelly Roll Blanket, I'm yelling about the lip and hand balm!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

LOL, we should do a live soon, it has been a while.

[@thatguyknits]

Embrace the pink! I was so hesitant and now my pink sweater is my absolute favorite sweater that I’ve knit for myself.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Real men wear pink 😁

[@KateColors]

Kevin, That salmon color... I have a shirt that color, I have your same coloring (blue eyes, pink complexion w/blue undertones and graying hair), and, every time I wear that shirt, I get compliments and, a lot of love, all day long! Don't introduce the blue unless you're making a second sweater in stripes. I am making a Summer Tee using salmon and electric lime stripes--I'm purposely not choosing blue because I get equally great comments when I'm in lime. Ray, I love the sweater you're wearing. I've been looking for a pattern that has those shoulders and it really looks good on you. So much today! I'm gonna have to come back to catch the parts I missed. I just got called into work.😢 Thanks, too, for the nurse's book reference. I used to work in our local health clinic; I'm going to pass this onto the administrators there. I love them so much, anything to help them, I want them to know about. The nurses there are my favorite people; they always go above and beyond. Love you guys! ❤❤❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Kate! I decided not to use the pop of blue, I'm going all salmon.

[@brittfox9038]

I made my daughter a Granny Square Wave blanket. I started with Granny squares, turned so points are up/diamond shape then you just crochet in the granny stitch across and it makes a chevron pattern. Still quick and rather easy but much more interesting.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the tip, that sounds really cool.

[@sunidollfun]

I'm not a nurse but that nursing journal sounds really useful. It's got me thinking about an emotional 'temperature' blanket for nurses who knit. Each of the emotions could be color coded and a nurse could knit a row or more each day for each of the emotions that apply.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Wow that’s such an amazing idea!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Mary.P77]

Ray! Your “Love is Love” sock looks like a Neapolitan Ice Cream sundae with chocolate sauce! Love the colors! ❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

It totally reminds us of that.

[@KathyStJohn-qv7kv]

A few podcasts ago, Kevin introduced the Harris Hood, which I fell in love with and knitted up immediately after a trip to my LYS. I got it done in 3 days, wore it to the shop, and everyone had to make it. In addition to the Emotional Support Chicken, another huge hit, your knitting suggestions won a bunch of us over. In addition, here in Missouri, I wish I lived closer VKL to be able to travel on a train and be at an amazing knitting show so quickly 1:29:06 . Love your podcasts and look forward to every single one. Please don't stop. I get a lot of ideas from you.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

That's awesome Kathy! Both of those are such great projects.

[@Quietly501]

Gorgeous Oisin hat, Ray. Love it ❤ and just bought the pattern. Thanks for the share!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, it is a really great pattern and hat, hope you enjoy making it.

[@ApplesandPeanutButter]

Ray, look at Toni's (TL Yarncraft) tassel video. She had lots of ends on this year's temperature blanket that she didn't want to weave in. It may be a solution for your granny stripe which looks great; beautiful colors, Kevin😊

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

I will check it out thanks so much!

[@joycepastore3860]

I am so thrilled to hear about the nursing journal, thank you for mentioning it. When I began my medical career in the 80’s, I was surprised by how many nurses smoked and drank heavily. I discovered that as medical providers, we take terrible care of ourselves. I am so glad that self care is being embraced by the nursing community - I am sure that the pandemic was a wakeup call for many. I currently work in a non-clinical position, but so many of my fellow physicians are still type A workaholics. I have learned the hard way to “work to live” not “live to work”. And after two docs dying within the last few months, hopefully my colleagues will wake up. I can’t wait to retire to knit more😊❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

The journal is such a great idea, wish it was around when I first started out in the profession.

[@abbielynnjuett4031]

There are videos on KZbin that shows how to crochet squares together that are stunning. Crochet the sqares made with Kevin's yarn, crochet them together with an undyed yarn which will always match no matter how long it takes to finish. When crocheting together, do it as you finish a square. Then you will not have to touch it again. 💚💚💚

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Such a great idea! Leaving the squares for the end seems so overwhelming lol

[@debmeyer3111]

I’ve been a nurse in Surgery for 45 years. I don’t remember my impressions when I started but I still love it and am not ready to retire. I’m currently the charge nurse on nightshift in a level one trauma center. I wish I had started a journal many years ago. All the stories! I hope the newer nurses purchase those journals. Trust me, you all will thank yourselves! [no affiliation]

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

I think it is a great tool for new nurses, wish something like this was around when I first started.

[@connies1625]

Kevin the salmon yarn is gorgeous. You need to come to Minnesota ... we have a ton of yarn shops and a fiber festival plus a lot of classes.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Connie! Hopefully we can make it there one day.

[@michaelanneneal8439]

Hi Ray! I am a nurse too! Thank you for sharing the journal...I wish I had that back when I started! I could have written a book during COVID. Anyway...LOVE you guys!! You have a wonderful podcast!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

You are so welcome! And thank you so much ❤️❤️

[@Mobuchholz]

Your sweater is beautiful! The crazy sock lady has notes in her project about page about joining the strips together. It does have a front seam though, I guess just part of the look of this blanket. I had knitted a whole strip then just didn’t love connecting them so now just have a 5 foot strip lol The Granny stripe blanket is super fun, I just make a magic knot when adding in the next color which is working out super well

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, Ill check out her notes on the blanket.

[@staceymoore5304]

Ray that nursing journal information was great. I am an OT (for 20 yrs 😲, hard to believe!) and your explanation, and the example thought provoking questions you described brought back so many memories in that brief segment. I can appreciate Cynthias' journal purpose and development!!!!! Thankful for all of the nurses of the world ❤‍🩹❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

I think it is a really great tool for new nurses.

[@jackieleipert1950]

Keep that beautiful granny stripe blanket going ALSO the granny squares. You can do it all. You are still young. I am a new slow knitter, improving I but I have yarn to make a gorgeous granny square Halloween blanket, but I never made a granny square. I am a quilter and a cross stitch repro sampler lover. No time to work on all of it but I NEED TO. Love, love, love all of it. Just started a February appliqué and flying geese table topper kit. I am pushing on to get it partially done this month. My KIT of the month. JUST DO IT!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

lol love this!! That Nike slogan applies to everything lol 😂

[@LindaSimpson]

Hi Kevin and Ray, loving your sweaters and socks. That hat is stunning. Kevin, I have done a quick tutorial on my channel on joining the jelly roll stripes, hope it helps. Loving your purchases, thank you for sharing. Hugs ❤❤❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Linda! I will check out the tutorial.

[@liasilva3750]

Kevin I made the jelly roll blanket. Look at the crazy sock lady’s modification on joining your strips it is so much nicer looking. More even. Good luck Lia.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I’ll take a look at her notes.

[@bobclark98122]

Aren’t Jay’s bags gorgeous? I have a couple already!!! 🎉

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

They are so well made and the size if great.

[@peggypaya1489]

I love my Thread and Maple binder. I went all out a couple years ago and use it all the time. I have six pages. The quality is the best.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

The quality is great, we can’t wait to add some more pages to it.

[@aquilladahun-aleftyknitter9127]

I have been following Hello Bargello for quite sometime. The kits look so beautiful. I've made earrings from their patterns. I can't wait to see your finished objects!!!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Oh awesome!! It was our first time seeing them! So fun!! Also, we think we decided that we’re like 87.56 percent sure we might be coming to your neck of the woods in May 😳😉❤️

[@sherryhooks]

those chickens are awesome and I think I may need those scissors Great bags also

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

The scissors are so cool, and we love the chickens.

[@trishcostello813]

Sock tubes are my train knitting. Uneek self striping yarn, love it.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Oh definitely!! Love their yarn 🧶😊

[@vickiscales3755]

Ray, If you don't want to weave in all those ends on the granny stripe blanket, you could try doing an envelope boarder to hide all those ends. The blanket is beautiful. I agree with Kevin, keep going on it.

[@lyonza]

I was going to suggest the same thing, - super useful for hiding ends you don't want to weave in. Keep going, the blanket is awesome

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the tip Vicki.

[@JADufault21]

Finnish Knitting Stories, her husband named her chicken "Cluck Norris". Pronounced "He-land Coo". Bargello takes me back to my childhood, the 1960s/1970s, so Carol Brady/Florence Henderson, LOL!😂

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Love the name of the chicken. You are so right, definitely has a 60/70s vibe to it.

[@barbh7789]

Kevin, check out the crazy sock lady, she is also making the same blanket and picking up her stitches along the sides differently than the pattern.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I will take a look at her notes.

[@MsOMakes]

Thanks again for coming to Darn Knit Anyway’s Sweater Camp yesterday! I’m a super fan, too, and you were the highlight of the weekend for me! Have a great fortnight, boys! 😊

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

It was such a great interview, we really enjoyed it.

[@knittingpossect]

I just sat through the 2:28:30 episode. Jay came into the room and asked if I needed to be flipped. lol Love you Guys.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

LOL, that Jay is always making sure you are okay.

[@angieanderson6082]

Cheers to 20K!! 🥂

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you 🙌

[@joanngrigoli5349]

Teachers could use that kind of journal too!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Absolutely!! What a great idea.

[@BosomFemme]

Hey guys! It was a balmy 37 and sunny here in Buffalo today! Knitting a cozy blanket and reading Crescent City

[@SwamiMommy]

Great sweaters love the colors on both of you!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Sounds perfect 🤩

[@maureenholian1560]

Hi Kevin and Ray, Thank you, Ray for sharing about the Nursing Journal! I Truly believe that Nurses are the backbone to every doctor !!! Truly enjoy all your podcasts !! Congratulations on reaching 20,000+ subscribers🎉!!!! You both are so talented, generous and inspiring!! Kevin, great color for your sweater... like the idea of the stripe on the sleeve. Can not wait to see it knitted up! Happy Kniting!🧶 Hugs!🫶

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Aww thank you so much! 😊 that means a lot to us ❤️❤️

[@jacquelinepirotta]

I think it is great you are out spending money you can afford to spend. All these small makers need us to keep them in business - no one is buying knitting needle holders if we aren't. no need to justify anything. I loved your content and frankly if you want to start one of those 24 hour shopping channels - im in! :)

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

lol 😂 omg can you imagine us hosting a 24 hour shopping channel?! lol 😂 amazing ❤️❤️

[@FluffyRainbowsRX]

“You work on commission right? Bad mission, hugh!”

[@jsimoneau4]

Enjoyed the episode and vkny news. I loved knitting the Fall River vest for my husband and he loves wearing it. Can’t go wrong with mj mucklestone designs!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you!! I am looking forward to casting it on, hopefully soon.

[@donnawelch3548]

Congratulations on your 20K ! Lovely knits and acquisitions. Thank you for sharing Vogue Knitting Live with us all. Take Care.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Donna!

[@Diana-Treister]

Oh. Wow I’m a nurse TOO! ER for 29yrs! Met you guys at VKL!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

So glad we got to meet, VKL was so much fun. Hope you enjoyed your time there.

[@rachelp7619]

I'm knitting on one of my two Jelly Roll blankets as I watch your podcast. remember as you do the second row you only pick up one leg of the V stitch in between the garter ridges. (See page 4, Main Body, Row 1 of pattern). this will keep the color you are attaching the new color to from showing on the front of your work.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I’ll have to go back and read the pattern again.

[@WendyCanallatos]

This nursing journal is awesome!! I will share with my daughter Katie- she is Asst. Nurse Manager at Shady Grove Adventist hospital. Her department t is Forensic.Nursing. This is an awesome vehicle for all nurses- thank you so much for sharing !♥️

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

It is such a great idea, wish I had something like that when I first started out.

[@phyllisburke4141]

Lovely knits. You should get whatever tools you need to make your knitting easier or more enjoyable. You will be knitting for a long time and your older self will thank you.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Phyllis!

[@debbieperea95]

Love your videos. You are both very talented 👍🏻🧶🥰🥰

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Debbie!

[@carynpalliser4083]

Kevin, on your jelly roll blanket, I think you need to remember two features in order to get that join smoother. First, hold the yarn in back when you pick up, and be sure to pick up both parts of the v. Then you need to turn and slip the first stitch with yarn in front before you knit / garter stitch back on the back / wrong side. Good luck and let me know how it went!🎉

[@carynpalliser4083]

Don’t give up, you’ll love the result. You just need to nail that join technique and you’re off to the races! I can’t wait to see your color palette unfold!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I'll take another look at my knitting, I thought I was doing it the way it was written in the pattern.

[@lisanakao1043]

Cynthia’s journal sounded so cool. My daughter just started nursing school so I purchased the journal for her. I know she will love it. Kevin what about a stripe on both sleeves but off set🤷🏻‍♀️ Ray love the loops yarn. I am going to look for some yarn to make a sweater. The three colors that go together 😍! Thank guys for another fun episode.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Yay, hope she finds the journal useful/helpful.

[@ImCFoxx]

As I have mentioned, before, I know, you must remember me, I am a retired, RN, ICU-CPU & PACU. In 1970’s, if we didn’t have hypodermic needles in our hands, on our breaks we had knitting needles or some other type of needle arts doing counted cross stitch, needlepoint on canvas, Bargello, knitting, etc. even crochet. I was crafty person, sewing my clothes, and making all of my gifts. I don’t believe I would use plastic, although that might eliminate the need to block the piece after it ws finished. We did Bargello for piano, bench covers, dining room chairs, and for wall pieces. It is beautiful, very Italian esque. Usually the canvas is made of cotton or in some cases linen. To keep it from becoming misshapen we put it on a stretcher. The plastic is just so un Eco. I suspect there may be a place for plastic somewhere but as an heirloom piece I recommend cotton. It comes in all sizes. If you like it next time, try it. Often there are special shops with canvas by the yard, kits and yarn , needles, etc. etc. whatever you need. Maybe even JoAnn’s….

[@julielandy9162]

Y'all!!!! That highland cow and sheep are so frigging cute! I loved every second of your video. You made my day!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

They are adorable. Thank you Julie.

[@carriemarman9482]

I love my THREAD & MAPLE needle binder…. I have all my Chiagoo , (complete- 4”, the red and blue shortie sets.. as well as the yellow one I put it in the pouch of one of blue shortie -the small cables in the other pouch with the red set.. ) so it’s all together, as well as I have the 4” bamboo interchangeable…. All my cables for mini,,small and large in all lengths 14, 22 30 & 44. I use my jimmy bean, Della Q portfolio each folder is labeled with mini,small & large and each page with 14”, 22”, 30” and 40”… and the back side I hold my crochet Chiagoo Tunisian crochet set.. and I keep a pouch from one of the sets, the zippered black one, I keep all my extenders, cable stoppers and tightening in the other side, ( between the both I have my whole set of Chiagoo set together), I as well have knitters pride DPN and all sizes interchangeable are kept together in a different kind of organizer. Love my maple and thread & Chiagoo needles mostly.. I also bought a project page insert,,, so if I’m travelling I can gather what I need and only take the one sleeve.brilliant product. While in the case, I keep all my sock needles together dpn, 9” all together, thinking of getting another since I use 2.25 and 2.5 sizes usually. And have the extra one for the travelling. I mixed my colour between the whiskey and chocolate the actual binder, the 4” bamboo and the project page are chocolate and all others are whiskey… love my combo and the personalization of it…😊

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you so much for sharing this, it is really helpful. We will definitely be getting more pages and are looking for ways to store all the extra needles, we have a bunch of sets between the two of us.

[@Hellen-pf7ts]

Kevin, the salmon is gorgeous, I think a Maxim Cyr style pocket in the blue would be perfect, plus, whichever side the pocket is on put one stripe on the opposite sleeve just before the cuff in the blue to match the pocket (and your eyes😂😂❤). Loved the podcast boys, all great projects. Ray's advice on the heel sizing was so timely as my hubby was just trying on a ho sock and the instep was a tad tight, so, thanks to Ray the second sock's gonna get modified. Xx

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Glad that info helped Hellen.

[@Sophira1]

That was a marathon effort from you both. So much sharing of projects and adventures. As usual I loved it all. Those sweaters are gorgeous. Kevin, will you always do short rows on the back of your neck now? The neckline is a beautiful shape. Have a wonderful fortnight xx

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you so much! I will always do short rows, I love the extra length it gives in the back. This pattern will definitely be a reference for my future sweaters.

[@Professor_Purl]

Gents! So sorry we missed you at VKL - we were there on Saturday. Didn't quite break the bank like y'all did tho! Knit in good health Boyz. xx, @Professor Purl

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Oh so sad we missed you!! Next time for sure ❤️

[@katherineh3690]

Kevin, for your sweater I’m thinking add a salmon pocket with the stripe???… I also like your idea of using color pop with the cast on!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

A pocket could be cool on it, thank you for the suggestion.

[@savyjett]

Cherry heart has some crochet blanket patterns (some free) that has join-as-you-go instructions. Also, i have 6 blankets “on the go” (one is still in magic ball form). 😂

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the pattern suggestions.

[@nadiak9099]

Ray - do a log cabin blanket. It is a mix of both square & striped granny.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the suggestion, I'll take a look at a pattern.

[@marybethr7146]

Congratulations on 20K subscribers! You totally deserve it. Ray I LOVE NURSES. On Monday I had total knee replacement surgery and the ENTIRE nursing staff were (to use your term) absolutely lovely. So caring, professional and wonderful. From my initial intake before surgery thru my overnight stay, all the nurses were just fabulous. As a single mom who is used to doing everything for everyone else, it felt so nice to be totally cared for. I'll be doing this again in April on my other knee. Kevin, Kay of The Crazy Sock Lady is making a DK Jelly Roll blanket and her Ravelry project page has notes on how she joins each row. It's definitely worth a peek. After seeing the emotional support chickens on Episode 103, I'm seeing them EVERYWHERE.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you 😊 Hope you have a speedy recovery. Thank you for the suggestion, I'll take a look at her notes.

[@luciaevangelho4593]

Congratulations on 20K

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you so much 😀

[@theknittingchick]

Hey Guys, congrats on reaching 20k. Kevin, in regards to your blanket try picking up just the left leg of the stitch and then knit it in the back loop. You won't have a ridge then. I do that when I pick up my stitches from the heel flap of my socks. It stops that thick ridge and it leaves a pretty twisted pattern for that first round. Good luck. 😘

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Great tip! Thanks 😊

[@gaellezaccaro1691]

thanks for this episod, it's very nice of you to share your vkl experience. i'd love to go once 🤞. your purchase are great and thread and Maple, it's such a great purchase you've made, i'm looking at it for so loooong. i love their product.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you! Their products really are top notch, it is definitely and investment, but will last forever.

[@katherineh3690]

Ray, I’ve made fingerless mitts out of fingering yarn and I love them. They are my go to on cooler autumn like days! Blue brick (shireen) has some great patterns. I used Cove which was such a fun knit but she has some newer patterns too!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Oh awesome! Thanks for the suggestion ❤️❤️

[@wooldahlias]

Aw, you just made my day! Thank you for the shout out about my Emotional Support Chicken, EGGatha Christie! She makes me ridiculously happy. And big congratulations on the 20k followers! Your podcast is a delight: joyful and authentic.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you! Your chicken is so cute.

[@louisedrouin306]

Hey Kevin for your jelly roll blanket have a look at the crazy sock lady project page. She does it differently and I liked her method. I’m enjoying my Sunday morning with you guys🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you, I will take a look at her notes.

[@Miffy_creates]

For your crochet blanket you can do a crab stitch around the whole thing

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the tip, I'll take a look at that stitch.

[@debraraymer3386]

I love kits, too. I bought a lot from the old Craftsy, and they came in a plastic bag. I have 70 Craftsy kits, and 41 Laura Nelkin Kits. I am currently working on a sock kit, which was part of Roxanne Richardson's August 2019 Sock Kal. In that kit, which I made, was a 9 inch circular needle, a pattern, a gauge swatch, and 2 skeins of Felici.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Those sound like some awesome kits!!

[@sueclark7758]

Yes - do classes at VKL! I did two classes and two lectures this year. Provisional cast ons with Romi Hill and the Hap Shawl with Gudrun Johnston. Lectures were with Deborah Newton on fit, and Andrea Lui (the knitting pt on Insta). All such great information, taught by knitting rockstars in their own right....just adds a whole other dimension to VKL.Love you guys 💕

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

We are already looking forward to next year and some classes, laughs and good food.

[@tyanneagle4630]

As a nurse who retired a few years ago after 44 years that journal would have been such a great thing to have. I still have thank you notes that families wrote me and I treasure them.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

It really is such a great tool for new nurses.

[@smallpond5380]

Your podcast is a highlight of each fortnight! Some day I'll get to an east-coast fiber fest and I will go total fangirl over meeting you. So yeah, that may happen some day. I'm on the side of YES to adding the blue/grey leftover yarn to the gorgeous salmon/bright pink for the next sweater. I think it would be an interesting wide stripe on one arm, it might take on kind of a sports-jersey look if you're into that. I think the coral color is great on its own, I think adding that touch of the other color will elevate the overall sweater. Gotta finish my Navelli then I'm jumping in on the Cozy Classic Raglan.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you!! For the sweater, I ended up going all salmon.

[@kimhallson9579]

Yuppers I made my chicken and her name is Henny Penny and I love her She absolutely makes me smile Love love love

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Aww what a cute name.

[@denisewilliams7657]

Kevin, yes do the pop of color on the sweater! Traci from the grocery girls does that quite a bit and it looks great. I like the two stripes of color on one arm. I’m going to have to knit a sweater like that too now lol

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Denise, I might try that on a different sweater, I decided to skip the stripe on this one.

[@MarinaMandarinaWoolyWorld]

Jelly Rol Blanket, Kevin, if it is same technique as 10-stitch-blanket, that it is how it should be. I knit 10 stitch blankets for many years now and you either love that designe element, or you don't. I LOVE it, that's why I keep knitting them 😄 people to whom I gift those blankets are split to two sides, one use ridged side as a face, others use "smooth" side as a face if the blanket. Also to make a border match I do an I-cord border. I never saw Jelly Roll blanket before, now I see it and I know what to do with all my sock yarn leftovers 😍 57:37 Ray, there is a pattern by Purl Soho, The Incredible Blanket, it looks like the one you crochet, the granny stripes, but it is knitted, and it looks amazing! Plus knitting takes less yarn, and feels softer. You may like it ❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

OH this is so great! Thank you for these suggestions! Love it 🥰

[@pamleverette3860]

I have to say not only is the emotional support chicken the best thing but knitting it was a JOY! Love you guys! My mom and mother in law were both nurses and both of my daughters are in health care (cardiology). I think this resource is a wonderful tool for such a stressful field!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

So happy that you enjoyed making it, it really brings so much joy.

[@jackieleipert1950]

Ray, your cable hat is super gorgeous.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thanks so much! I’m really happy with how it turned out 😊❤️

[@marion4351]

Ray do the crochet envelop boarder. Then your not weaving in ends. Ends are hidden in the envelop. Just tie each end do two chains slide them together for a sturdy knot. Then hide the ends in the envelop boarder. It takes a while to do but not as long as weaving ends. Who wants to do that!😂

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the tip.

[@jackieleipert1950]

I love Darn Knit’s outdoor sandwich boards on Instagram.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Omg right?! So clever 🥰

[@annettealberti1632]

Ray, look at the Granny Stripes Blanket by Lucy of Attic 24. I’ve never had trouble with the edges when I follow her directions. For your solid granny squares, look at the Battenburg Blanket, I think the squares would look great with natural colored yarn. Knitty Natty is making a beautiful one.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the suggestion Annette.

[@GinaScarpa]

Congratssss, I'm so happy to see you both THRIVING!!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Hi friend!! Thanks so much!! Amazing to hear from you!! Sending lots and lots of love 💕

[@kathybalcom5097]

i vote trim collar, cuffs, and bottom rib with accent and let the salmon shine. Happy knitting, fellows!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the suggestion Kathy.

[@lynnekelly9995]

Omg, if you like Nancy’s California book, check out her National Parks book. I love mine🥰

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for the suggestion, we will check out that book.

[@deemoye668]

@Kevin. Yes do pop of color on the neck and I would also suggest at the end of the sleeves, because those oranges tend to show dirt / wear & tear on the cuff edges. Still working on my emotional support chicken. Congrats on 20K. Onward and upward.

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you for your feedback Dee.

[@tiffanydawson1064]

I’m so happy to open my app and your lovely faces filled my screen! I recently found you two and I have binge watched every episode! You two are just the most beautiful couple and amazing knitters. I love watching your podcast as I crochet along. Keep being your amazing selves. Love from Australia ❤❤

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Aww wow thank you so much! We absolutely love doing these and spending time with you all ❤️❤️

[@TerriKelly-rx3it]

Congrats Kevin and Ray on 20k subscribers! I am from Litchfield, CT

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you so much!! Sort of neighbors lol 😂

[@lynnecunningham5527]

Congratulations on 20k subscribers! I am sure you'll have many more soon! You guys are great!

[@NeedlesattheReadyPodcast]

Thank you Lynne!