The Episode of So Many Summer Tops

Where to find me:
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What I'm Wearing and Finished Objects:
Yume Top by Isabell Kraemer
www.ravelry.co...
Yarn: Berroco Remix Light Color 6993 (Pepper)
Thea Top by Susanne Muller
www.ravelry.co...
Yarn: Berroco Remix Light Color 6993
WIPS:
Yume Top (See above link)
Yarn: Berroco Remix Light Color 6960 "Strawberry"
Purple Striped Vanilla Socks
Yarn: Drops Fabel Color 904
Ready to Cast On:
Leela Top by Caidree
www.ravelry.co...
Yarn: Pascuali Nepal Color 10 "Summer Forest"
Seashore Stroll Top by JST Designs
www.ravelry.co...
Yarn: Drops Safran Color 59
Early Bloomer by Heidi Kirrmaier
www.ravelry.co...
Yarn: Purl Soho Linen Quill in colors "Peach Stone" (MC) and "Honey Pink" (CC)
Other Things Mentioned:
Farnham Tee by The Knit Purl Girl
www.ravelry.co...
Berroco Remix Light Colors Purchased: Strawberry, Buttercup, and Pool
Estuary Skirt by Sew Liberated
sewliberated.c...
Podcasts Mentioned:
Kaci ‪@YoungfolkKnits‬
Ashley ‪@knittingatthecreek‬
Sarah ‪@itisasarah‬
Ashley ‪@papercraneyarns‬
Books Mentioned:
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

[@verylikecheryl]

Yes to sewing! Yes, you can totally learn it. My advice is, set time limited goals, not outcome goals - so ‘I will work on this skirt for 90 minutes’ not ‘I will cut this out and put in the darts and sew up the side seams today.’ The reason being, if you get hyper focussed on an outcome and power ahead to reach it, you get tired, you make mistakes, you have to unpick, you get mad, you make more mistakes because you’re mad and it all goes south. So make an oasis of sewing time in the day and what gets done, gets done. The rest can wait for the next heart-jumping instalment 🤗

[@alovelyyarn]

That sounds like some really good advice. I don't have a space that I can dedicate to sewing. I always have to sew at my kitchen table. That is one thing I will have to work around, but I guess not doing it because of that would just be an excuse! Thanks for your encouragement!

[@verylikecheryl]

@@alovelyyarn Oh, yeah that makes a difference. Packing your machine away mid-project and having to haul it out again can be ‘too much clatt’ as we say in Yorkshire. But even a short break can keep a project on track if you feel your temperature rising. I bet you’ll have fun and be great at learning how to do it, whatever approach you take. It’s worth the ups and downs. I spent a lot of my teens and early adulthood thinking I was the ‘wrong’ shape, especially in Summer, because off-the-peg clothes did not fit me. I’m small but curvy so clothes that were big enough in the bust hung off me everywhere else. When I started to get the hang of sewing and dart adjustment, I suddenly felt more at home in my own body. It flipped my whole perception of clothes. Now it was the standard sizing that was not right for me, rather than me not right for the clothes. It took me a few goes but the first time I achieved a summer dress that fit me really well was the Hawthorne by Collette. I cried 🥹. So, here’s wishing you joy in your sewing if you decide to take the plunge x

[@elenabeyers2088]

You can do this. I agree. Take it one step at a time. Practice seeing seams on scraps. Get to know your sewing machine. Maybe try a small project first to learn again, the seams, pivoting., etc.

[@Npt_ellen]

I think you might like the Danish Musings podcast. She mostly has knitting podcasts but she also does some about life in Denmark and some about trips she takes with her family. She’s a fantastic knitter and is very soothing to watch.

[@catherinecunningham7126]

I love Helle’s podcast! 🌸

[@DanaBarbieri]

I love her too!❤❤

[@kerryzubke4926]

Agree completely 😊

[@kathiep.7734]

Yes I watch her too!!

[@BJVaughn-c3l]

Me, too

[@saclothandashes]

You can do the sewing! I know I’m way behind on podcast watching so I hope I’ll see a finished estuary skirt! My husband is the sewist in our family and he’s disabled so it’s something that he can do and enjoys. He’s sewn me several estuary skirts and they’re my favorite. I get to help by picking patterns and fabric. Then I often help cut and sometimes serge things. One of these days I’ll sew a garment myself but I’m def thankful that he loves making things for me! Love the podcast and I’m so glad you got the monetization thing figured out!

[@janeshipley6993]

i’m so behind on my videos, but i had to say…it’s about time they let you be monetized! yay🥳! oh, and as for the sewing, get a simplicity pattern - they’re much better than they used to be - and make that. it’ll get you back into sewing. then do the fancy sewing. i don’t know - digital patterns freak me out, so simplicity will be the way that i go when i get back into sewing, after having made my clothes in school. i’ve had the bloomer (?) tee waiting for ages, so i can’t wait to see how yours turns out. btw, good for you on dealing with having everybody done with school and getting out into the world. it’s a new chapter, and a good one😉.

[@vadec5909]

Your tops are beautiful. Congratulations on being done home schooling. Your podcast is lovely

[@noramcdonald2669]

Another podcast I love is Finish Knitting Stories. She is very funny and a great knitter.

[@alecsgirl]

Yes! Jana is amazing. I love watching her podcast 😊

[@tamibrown1871]

Dive in and do it! I totally agree with you about the terracotta yarn and the seaside (?) tea!

[@A_knitters_suitcase]

Beautiful inspiring projects as usual! All the best for this new stage in your life xxx

[@mariawadensten7770]

The colour charcoal looks great on you! 😍

[@beckywhitt7356]

Look at the Magna Flora. My new favorite like the Ranunculus. Super fast knit and cute.

[@ElyseMakes]

Enjoy your new colorful clothes life. I love mine.

[@rosemaryeveleigh3562]

The Yume Top knitted in charcoal looks good on you. My experience with recycled fibre was not good and I will not buy it again. The Thea will it be worn when the weather is cooler. Another Yume Top and I like the colour. Nice yarn acquisitions in different colours. I never went through the Mpause. I like the socks. I have five wips currently but have not finished any of them. Seeds that don't come up just make me fed up. We have just received a bad weather alert for four cold fronts bringing heavy rain and snow on the on mountains and low lying areas. Cape Town in the Western Cape on the Atlantic Seaboard is where weather slams into the area on Sunday afternoon. Take care ❤😊

[@carolynfowler3133]

Another lovely episode, thank you. Yes, you can sew!! There are a few tutorials for the estuary skirt on KZbin. Put one on and have fun with the sew along! Piecing together the pattern is a bit annoying, but line up the markings the best you can and make do when they don’t quite match. Some patterns allow you to print off just the size you need making it a touch less confusing (next time. 😉). Sewing clothing isn’t the precise craft quilting is. Just start and enjoy!

[@donnaterryhalleran2367]

Yes yes do the leaf pattern in terracotta yarn. Well be so beautiful. Enjoy your podcast. You are very knowledgeable. God bless

[@mymakingadventure]

I made the Hinterland Dress with minimal issues and I’m a very beginner sewist!!! I’m sure you can do the skirt no problem and then on to the dress! I got free fabric (our library had a craft exchange) to do my first version of the dress so if I messed up I wouldn’t feel like I wasted money. You can sometimes use a sheet or something from a thrift store for cheap practice fabric too! I love seeing everything you’re making. I might need a Thea Top too. Thanks for sharing your projects and new yarn and congrats on being monetized finally!

[@kathleenjohnson4433]

Just finished a Hinterland (my 2nd) and love it! I love “It is a Sarah” podcast too. As far as the pattern goes - stick the printed pattern together and then you can see the sizing lines. I use tissue paper to trace the size I need and then the original can be used by several people. The directions for the Hinterland were pretty good so they should be good on the estuary as well. Take your time and give yourself grace while learning a new skill. Good luck!

[@alovelyyarn]

Thanks for the tips!

[@ColoradoKai]

When you held up the Berroco Pool color way, it really made your eyes pop. That will be gorgeous on you!

[@alovelyyarn]

You're the second person to say that!

[@Sharon-hl1fe]

Yes to sewing I have sewn this it is good for beginners but the hinterland dress I found easier. I am sure you can do it your knitting is beautiful and I find knitting harder good luck.

[@sarahlocke4069]

I just finished the early bloomer! I love that pattern it was so simple and turned out so beautifully ❤️❤️

[@lynnmcentire4014]

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read Calico Palace buy Gwen Bristow. I read the Dutch House last year

[@patsycoats4061]

I’ve been reading Jane Harper. She’s an Australian author and I’ve enjoyed her books.

[@melcerra2375]

We are in the same season of life and sewing is on my list of things to tackle as well. We can do it!

[@krazedvintagemodel]

You have experience knitting gorgeous garments Amber, which will lend its insight to fabric creations, I'm sure! As for gardening, it's so dry here in Maryland also. Many of my seeds failed to germinate with daily watering, and my rain barrels are dry. But my frog pool is almost full, and my sunflower garden will be strewn with tomato plants! Congratulations to Miss Lily on her graduation, such an exciting season of life. Peace and Blessings to you and your family Amber! 🌻🧶🌱

[@npepperc4437]

I do like a pattern with some positive ease. No one needs a top that shows all their nooks n crannies. Amber yours came out very nice. The positive ease looks nice on you.

[@pleximama9526]

The Estuary is on y list for this summer, too. What most intimidates me about sewing is cutting into precious fabric--unlike knitting there are no do-overs! You can definitely do it, though! I agree with another commenter about taking it slow and doing a little each day. The Emerson pants pattern is a good one to start with. Congratulations on finishing your homeschool career! I have two years left, and am not sure what's next for me either. All the best to you as you figure out our next step!

[@debbielavers9836]

2nd hand book stores usually have great sewing books. One thing about sewing , skill’s don’t change a lot over the years. Also a lot of sewing patterns have demos on KZbin. Do a search!

[@noramcdonald2669]

Love all your patterns. I bought Zinnia plants and the insects are eating them like crazy! I went to my nursery and they told me to use “Seven”. Usually my Zinnias are gorgeous. I love to sew and quilt. You can do it! Actually Sarah is making that skirt. I love It’s a Sarah, go back and watch all of her podcasts.

[@knittielynnie]

My three cents: You may be overthinking the sewing! Just go for it. One option is to use el cheapo fabric and make a "muslin" first (a test run). The Yume is such a great summer pattern! I made one in Remix Light Eggplant and love it. It stretches some, so I pop it in the washer and dryer. I homeschooled 2 boys for 12 years. When that was done, I had a little identity crisis. I tried volunteering too much, going to grad school, and going back to work. Then I realized that my identity wasn't new, it was just changed a bit. It's still ok for me to be a home maker, I am still the "Mom" of my empty nest. I guess what I'm saying is to give yourself time and grace, and to not be surprised if you're not right where you need and want to be already. Or maybe God has other plans, but either way, it's ok. You're still you, just in a new season.

[@saraw8503]

Hi Amber, I live in coastal NC. I have been knitting lately with the Remix light. I also did a Yume in white. I used this yarn in pepper for Rift, and pink for Salty Air tee. I am quite smitten with the yarn. I had the same epiphany regarding woo,y sweaters. Our winters are very mild and my heavier sweaters don’t get much love. I am focusing more on plant fibers and fingering in wool.

[@hannajenny6022]

Dear Amber, thank you for another lovely podcast! I always trust my gut, at least with knitting - if you have a good feeling about the pattern and a matching yarn, you will be right. I‘m knitting currently the „Trellis Sweater“ from Pia Trans because it was love on first sight when she showed it in her podcast ( Traveling Misknits) - I had the perfect yarn for this sweater in my stash and knit happily away, although it‘s not a sweater for summer. Greetings from Switzerland, Hanna

[@KariEngblom-Youkey]

Enjoyed this video! I like knitting with wool...however, unfortunately, what I want to knit isn't really what I want to wear, lol. I think you talked me into trying the remix light😊. Also... I LOVE Sarah too. You hooked me on that! So, I subscribed because your style felt similar, and it just feels like I am sitting and knitting with a friend. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@alip.9740]

Living in Texas it does get cold but for a blink. So I've come to terms with knitting fingering or sport only and mostly short sleeves. It hardly stays cold enough in the winter (especially in peri..) to make thick sweaters worth it. But I keep pushing to vacation in cold places to get my time and money's worth out of the ones I knit or will knit that are heavier.

[@cynthiatennant9896]

I sew clothes and have made the Hinterland dress and wear it a lot. I would not recommend starting on it. The skirt would be much better to start with. The hardest thing for me was learning to sew garments that fit. I have gotten much better through trial and error. I make a muslin first a lot of garments I sew and get the fit right and then make it in my fabric. It has saved me much frustration. Now that I’m learning to knit, started a year ago I can make knits to complement my sewn garments and it’s wonderful!!!! It all takes time but at this stage in my life I’m so not in a rush anymore and that’s wonderful too!!! I wish you the best in learning to sew. If I can help in any way please let me know ❤️

[@AHandKnitLetter]

Loved spending my morning with you, Amber. Your Yume Tee looks super cute. ❤

[@KnittingAlongTheRockies]

I like the grey (and I’m not big on black either). I appreciate you listening patterns separately, some people just list 1 ravelry project page and, since I don’t have a ravelry account, I usually can’t access project pages. I usually CAN access a link to a specific pattern. I’m so glad you like the remix yarn. I have some I also got on a store closing sale and I want to use it this year. Funnily enough, I also have it in the pool color and I also wonder if I went too bold/bright 😄 I also got a bold red 😳 seemed like a good idea at the time. At some point I was told red is my “power color” 😂

[@susant2409]

The Seashore Stroll will be beautiful in the terra cotta yarn! I have made a few tops in Remix Light and love that yarn (check out the Derecho by Alison Green and Breezeway by Laura Aylor.) I definitely want to knit more garments with Remix; I like your idea about lightweight sweaters for the fall and winter, and I've also been thinking about a cardigan in the regular Remix (not Light.) Also, I love Isabel Kraemer patterns - I've had great success with several of her cardigan patterns as well as the Yume top. Thanks for your inspiration!

[@azknitter]

Great episode Amber, love the yarns you have been using and the patterns too. I have been watching Sarah’s podcast for a long time and love watching her.

[@bonniel3679]

Congratulations on your channel monetization. You've been so persistent that someone finally cooperated😂 That's a bummer about your zinnias. We've had such unusual weather this year (probably the wettest spring/summer I can remember) it's possible that impacted germination. Enjoy the contribution you made to your children's success. I have no doubt that you will find more creative endeavors to try with your extra free time. Mary Kay Andrews is an author you might like to try. She sets quite a few of her books in sC & Georgia. I just finished a recent one set on Tybee Island.

[@EileenK64]

“condiments for a hot dog” That made me laugh out loud. 😂 My 17 years of homeschooling also just came to an end. Very bittersweet! My youngest has some special needs so she still needs a lot from me though. She’ll be living at home for the foreseeable future. I also have a 21 and a 33 year old out on their own but still in the area thankfully. We have been getting so.much.rain, the opposite of you. We even had flash flood warnings yesterday and a whole small town had to be evacuated. It didn’t affect my neighborhood though. But my (small) garden is looking pretty good. 😃 Fun episode!

[@joy1400]

Always happy to see a podcast from you!! Congrats on getting some support and I’m always inspired by what you are working on! Love Ann Patchett!! Have you heard of Ariel Lawhon?? Such a good author. Her latest is called ‘the frozen river’ and I really enjoyed it!

[@ruthannbull6515]

Loved this podcast. Such fun colors of yarn you have. There are so many sweaters to knit. Thanks for sharing. Have a great week.

[@doggal-re6zt]

Your new yarns are gorgeous! I'm also enjoying your finished projects. So quickly done and all beautiful. Also a big fan of It's a Sarah and I agree with your comments about her. Very calming to listen to her, and she's a humble person. I look forward to her dailies.

[@alovelyyarn]

Yes, she's great!! Daily videos are so much work, and she's doing them in two different languages. I can't even imagine the hours she has invested!

[@noradavid8275]

I thought Sarah was Dutch. Yes from the Netherlands. Very pleasant 😊

[@bernicejames8014]

You look wonderful in those brighter colours. Great podcast thank you

[@jenniferbarrett3272]

Wow, you are on a summer top roll, Amber. So many beautiful tops and great ideas. So nice to hear reviews on different (and affordable) yarns. ❤

[@alovelyyarn]

Yes I am! Lol. I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@northerngail0385]

Hi Amber. I have been wanting to make a vest and I love the "Riptide Vest" by Jennifer Toland.

[@mariaslayman9795]

You can totally learn to sew. Just take it a step at a time and read the instructions for each step multiple times😊. The is a podcast that I just found that includes sewn garments with the knitting. Twins who knit. Thanks for a great episode.

[@knitbythelake]

Ah! I have the same skirt pattern and have also held off making it because I'm intimidated 😂 And bought the estuary because the hinterland was even more intimidating and I wanted to start with something "easy" Which is silly, since my best friend is an actual seamstress and would happily help me.

[@tinakercher8768]

Go for it on the sewing! Get a thrifted sheet to practice on. Doll clothes are smaller and more tedious than adult patterns.

[@beverleywhite1242]

If I remember correctly Sew Liberated offers tutorials with their patterns. If you sign in to the account you made when you bought the pattern you should find a link to it. And lots of tutorials for taping the pattern together. Tip: Try to only use tape on the pattern pieces, not outside the pattern that you will have to discard. I have made 3 Hinterlands. Each one is better than the last.

[@marilys3549]

I like the colors of the Remix yarn. The charcoal and the strawberry is pretty. The gold color is "iffy" You look like a Summer color season and gold and terracotta are Fall colors. Keep buying colors in your season. I'm a Summer and similar in coloring like you. Orange and gold tones should steal from your vibrant skin tone, neutral colors can be tricky to wear because of undertones.

[@deniseengel1451]

Congratulations on Lily's graduation. I encourage you to start sewing. Yes, you will have to unsew, (rip) sometimes. Just invest in a good seam ripper. You will learn as you go as you did with your knitting.

[@ericallerton809]

❤❤amber ,,,!!!you are in a roll,..,.🎉🎉🎉 Love ur top on you,,,, ❤️ Great chats about summer tops,,,, That peachy is so pretty All those books!!!🎉🎉 Elaine 🏠💕

[@betseyfowler2625]

Gray makes other colors pop. Your top makes you shine!

[@carlenlanser2276]

Love watching your podcast. You always have wonderful projects & inspiration for new projects. I have Yume in my queue & you persuaded me to purchase Berrocco Remix Light to use for this sweater. I purchased the Buttercup colorway, completely not in my color wheel but I’m looking forward to knitting it. My usual colors are blues, teals, reds (blue base tones). I don’t know when I’ll cast on as I’ll be having hand surgery on 7/19 😢. I’m going to encourage to follow your instincts & use the terra cotta colorway for the lovely seashore stroll top! ❤.

[@cassandra3399]

Hi Amber, hey I love your bright colored remix light colors. I’ve knitted with it and remix too and I really like it and feel it is super comfortable. And yes you should wear those bright colors! I used to sew a lot more than I do now. Sewing clothing has gotten very expensive and I just don’t want to do it anymore, but still a simple skirt pattern you just almost can’t mess up. So totally easy. If you do an elastized waist it just can’t be beat, and fits different sizes so easily. Go to it girl! 😊

[@DanaBarbieri]

Congratulations, Lily! My youngest is now going to be a senior in high school. I haven't worked since my oldest was born 19 yrs ago so I'm in the same boat.

[@mama_knitter]

Love the summer knitting and the summer yarns for non summer knitting, I’m in Texas and I’m having the same revelations. Also don’t finish the books if they’re bad, I’ve been on goodreads since 2013 and I get the book count, but Sarah MacKenzie said something recently that really resonated with me. She said the problem with setting a goal for books is you read to get it done instead of reading to read which is the point! I think when you find a good book it finishes itself anyways rather quickly.

[@slightlyreal7290]

If I remember correctly there are very well written instructions for both the estuary skirt and the hinterland dress. I found both very easy to sew up even without them. I’m sure you can do it too!! And you know - this is personal for everyone so please do as you feel comfortable - you are probably going to struggle with your first sewing project anyway, even if it’s the easiest pattern around. But with a little patience you will surely get there and I have found that just starting on that project you really love (well ok not immediately a wedding dress or a fitted coat perhaps) is much more encouraging than starting something simpler that you might not like quite so much. So I would at least consider just starting that hinterland dress, you look so happy when you talk about making dresses. And I’m looking forward to some sewing content mixed in with the knitting.

[@darlenedavis3585]

Awesome podcast. I love your summer top knits made as well as ones in progress and planned. The colors you are going to use are gorgeous and very nice to stray out of the usual comfort zone. I haven’t used the Remix Light but I must. That is very weird about your zinnia’s not coming up. If they hadn’t already sprouted, I cannot imagine it had to do with the warm days and very cool nights. I would think that would be more once they were above ground growing. I like to grow from seed too and sometimes have to wonder if it was really worth buying the more expensive seeds. You would think you would get better results but not always. I also save seeds from my plants so try to do that from the ones that actually grew and add them to next years seeds and maybe you’ll get even more eventually. Oh yes, you mentioned about more tops appearing to tease you. Because everything we look at or search online is kind of tracked, more appears all the time, which isn’t a bad thing. I’m sure another video of more tops would be incredible, if you’re up for it. Thank you for all you do for us.

[@lauriejarboe6087]

"paralysis of analysis" is what I always have called this!! Great name for a podcast. I adore Paper Crane Yarns podcast. She is darling, talented and so wholesome (is that even a thing these days?!?) Glad to hear your review of Berocco Remix. I tried it once but it was absolutely not the right yarn for the project so I returned it. I'm going to reorder some and knit a summer knit, likely the Ingrid Summer Sweater by Gregoria Fibers. The pink raspberry smoothie color is lovely and the Pool color is amazing with your eyes!! Congrats on graduating home schooling -- both to you and your beautiful daughter.

[@alovelyyarn]

Hi Laurie! Yeah, the Remix definitely is one of those yarns that wouldn't work for some types of patterns. I love the Ingrid Summer Sweater. It has been in my favorites for a while.

[@Wonderfullyknittedemily]

I'm starting to sew myself a hinterland dress as my first garment! I feel the same about the style, it's something I feel like will be attractive while both pregnant and nursing. I've only cut out the fabric so far, I'm looking forward to pinning and sewing now!

[@TanisMakesStuff]

Congratulations on the monetisation 🎉 I know lots of people feel the same as you about buying new fiction, and I love buying used books myself, but I also buy several new books a year because authors are no different to any other indie maker, if you don't buy from them they won't be there tomorrow. 😢 Oh my goodness you can totally sew, it's really nowhere near as difficult as we convince ourselves, and there's quite often something on KZbin of course. I've found some pattern designers even do a step by step tutorial on here , which is incredible.

[@allgirlreview433]

The Yume you are wearing is so lovely. Great color and fit.

[@alovelyyarn]

Thank you so much!

[@pattigolden1]

All the great tops!! Don't doubt yourself, the grey top is gorgeous on you! The tank will also be a perfect lightweight vest. The blue is going to be perfect too!! I originally thought this was going to be my summer of one skein wonders, (hats, cowls, bandanas) but I've already finished 2 & over half with #3.... I think I need something larger. 😂 I used to sew a lot!! In highschool I made a yolked western shirt, french seams, pearl snap buttons, the whole 9 yards!! (My freshman year no less!!!) AND one of those popular in the '70's gingham tiered dresses....the teacher wanted to flunk me because I didn't want to make what I called an "immovable tank top".... heavy cotton material with NO stretch or give, not something a busty girl could wear & she was trying to claim I didn't do alll my work in class. Luckily the dean of students shut her down, because the entire class witnessed my work & I helped others pass. 4H & a my mother and grandmother taught me!! I only stopped because the price of material skyrocketed. I KNOW you can do it!!! Your knowledge of how to fit garments in knitting will help. 😊 Congratulations on monetization! Well deserved!!!

[@allgirlreview433]

As you are a beginning sewist I would recommend picking up a sheet at the thrift store to start with before investing in expensive fabric. You've got this.

[@alovelyyarn]

That's a great idea@

[@kathleengerwien845]

Congratulations to you & Lilly for completing high school! I think you have the right approach: your next step will come, from my perspective, through God’s will. While you don’t want to work as a RN, I see you as someone who has great empathy for others. I could see you in a support role in medicine or in a caring role. Thanks for the review of the Remix yarn as well as the podcasts and books. I am on the other side of menopause (praise God!). I was working in an office with poor HVAC to the extent one side of the building was palpably warmer than the other. I found shawls (light weight for summer and heavier for winter) a great help with temperature control. I could remove them without too much hassle when I was on the warm side of the building and wrap up in them when I was on the cold side of the building. I sewed through high school and college. I stopped when I needed tailored suits for work; then when business casual arrived, the cheap imported clothing was a deterrent to sewing again, particularly while I was working full time and did not have a lot of free time. I liked the idea another viewer submitted re: setting time limits for sewing as you build your skills. I took a class from Craftsy on drapery sewing, and, it was a game changer for me, even though I had sewn all the drapes and window covers for 2 homes. I learned so much. I remember they had dress making classes on the site. That may help unless you can take in person sewing classes near you. Anyway, best of luck with the garden and the rest of your projects!

[@lizh2752]

Amber, does your local fabric store have classes in sewing garments? That would be a good place to start. You can learn a lot from videos. I am a quilter, but used to make all of my Mother’s dresses. It is possible that you will fall right into it with your experience in knitting garments.

[@shannonbarrios780]

Love to see you trying the berry and aqua for your tops. Both colors will be lovely on you!

[@alip.9740]

Also if a pattern is good you can do it. I made a zelda dress for my daughter with a bodice and lining and I've never made anything past using a straight line. I did get a little help from a friend so maybe track down a quilt shop to visit to get help kinda like knitting stores.

[@doggal-re6zt]

I sew! I have not sewn that skirt, but Sarah did well on it, so you will too. Yes, the lines are the sizing. Find the page with the sizes and measurements. Then follow the line (dashed, dotted, etc) which corresponds to your size. Make your first one with inexpensive fabric, and if you make mistakes or it doesn't work out you don't have too much $$ into it. You can always make smaller items out of the fabric. Tape the pattern pieces together according to whatever marking match them up. If I want to save all the sizes of the pattern for the future or to make one for someone else, instead of cutting the pattern I trace my size onto parchment (taped together). Trust the pattern. If you have questions I'm sure any number of people would be willing to help. You can always ask me and I'll be as helpful as I can. Congrats to Lily! (and you for getting her through)

[@alovelyyarn]

This was so helpful, so thank you! Unfortunately, I can't seem to find any instructions on or with the pattern. I'm going to have to do some digging into my computer and see if that portion was saved elsewhere.

[@lindapayne9474]

Watching Young Folk Knits, It's a Sarah and Those twins who knit branch out into garment sewing, I have also been inspired to sew. I just got a pattern and some linen fabric to make cropped pants or capris. We shall see how it goes. Hinterland dress is on my wish list, too.

[@ottgram1872]

Do you find Drops yarn in the USA? You will find that sewing human sized clothing is waaay easier than doll clothes. This from a long time sewer of Barbie clothes! Enjoy the journey!

[@lynnthomas7275]

Drops Safran is a lovely summer weight yarn. Stitch definition is great. I did a cardigan using that yarn last year and it's lovely, although you need to watch for stitch splitting.

[@alovelyyarn]

That is so good to hear. I think splitting can be a really common problem with cotton yarn. I'm sure I'll adapt to it as I use it. Thanks for watching!

[@bettygraham818]

Sorry if I am repeating ,but Sarah is in The Netherlands, she's Dutch. . She is such a lovely person to watch and her handiwork is amazing.!

[@pammyers1982]

Your Yume looks like you have enough room to wear it over a dress, too. Very pretty. 😊

[@alovelyyarn]

Thank you! And, yes, it is big enough for wearing over a dress, so that's perfect!

[@tracischieber4253]

I sew. I have just restarted sewing clothing and am struggling to get the right fit. 😢 I would recommend shopping Joann’s clearance for some cheap fabric or Hobby Lobby. I find fabric I like, but don’t pay a lot for it. Then, if it flops, I’m not financially bummed. That’s my recommendation for an unstressful start.

[@mrsclaunch]

Love thrifting books and the craft section is close to the books. I’ve found some decent yarn.

[@alovelyyarn]

I topically don't have luck with yarn, although I did find a bag of off white Knit Picks Stroll several months ago that I picked up to finish one of my blankets with!

[@noelleparris9451]

P.S. Do it! Start making that skirt! If you're really concerned about making lots of mistakes, make a practice piece with some random inexpensive material; get the hesitation and uncertainties out of your system. What's the worst that can happen? You can do it!!! (I'd love to sew my own clothes ...but I have a lot of clothes already and can't imagine needing more anytime soon. Except for my knits! 😊) Congrats on the homeschooling finale 🎉

[@flourishfaithfiber]

Give yourself time to mourn the end of homeschooling and just keep praying for God to lead. We've recently moved back to the US, retiring from work overseas. Hubby has a job, but I'm still "retired." I'm trying to be patient, but anxious to know what the Lord has planned for me. So...as I give advice, I'm trying to take it to heart myself. Love all the colors you are using for your new projects. I think the charcoal looks lovely on you.

[@kathiep.7734]

If you can knit socks, well and do color work and read charts!…. You can definitely sew.. most patterns will explain what you need to know. After you cut out the pattern, you will be pinning it to your material. Just don’t cut until you’re absolutely sure! Starting with a skirt is a good idea. You could do this and now you have the extra time just don’t stress this is a hobby.!!❤

[@janetjroberson2581]

Hello from Swansea, Illinois.

[@tinakercher8768]

I got many packs of Walmart zinnia seeds and they didn't do as well and the sunflower seeds I got were a total bust.

[@ingeborggroth1415]

Try reading anything by Jan Karon. They are an ocean of wisdom and pleasure. I am 58 and those are the books I love most from all I read throughout my life.

[@alovelyyarn]

I picked up a bunch of her books at a thrift store last year!

[@brigettebell5814]

I think sewing is easier than knitting . The hard part in sewing is understanding the patterns. Once you learn that it is easy. You can do this. Watch some sewing videos. I’m a very beginner knitter so I’m struggling with learning how to read patterns. There are symbols on the sewing pattern that are important so make sure you are aware of those. You will pick up on it in no time. Good luck and plug along. You will have that skirt made before you know it! Love your videos!

[@alovelyyarn]

Thank you for this info! There are no symbols or instructions on the pattern, so I'm wondering if they were saved on a separate file on my computer. I'm going to have to do a little digging.

[@mj_writer2017]

New to your channel. Love your vibe and quality of your knitting. Have been a seamstress since I was very young. Suggest to stick with cotton woven fabric until you are more comfortable. Tricky fabrics like silk, chiffon, velvet and even knits have a learning curve. Make sure you iron seams as you go. Curved seams need to have the seam allowance notched. Basic garments should be easier than knitting. I would like to see you knit in more color. Have you had a color analysis done? You appear to be a summer to me, but could be a spring if that terracotta actually works on you. Would love to see you in stronger cool tones like navy blue or teal....just because you are pale (hair and skin) doesn't mean you are confined to muted tones. If you have good written skills, medical writing might be a good field for you given your RN.

[@arlenerainey]

Your salt rock lamp is so pretty! Where is it from?

[@ShettikkaWoods-jl8iq]

Good afternoon and blessings 💞 awesome ❤❤❤❤❤

[@allgirlreview433]

Sorry for the third post, I just finished law school after 18 years of homeschooling. Whatever you decide will be exciting.

[@alovelyyarn]

Wow! Wow! Wow! That is amazing! Congratulations!

[@allgirlreview433]

@@alovelyyarn Thank you so much. Like you I don't regret a minute I spent raising and educating my children.

[@CathyZced]

I had a very low germination from my seeds this year in upstate ny

[@alovelyyarn]

Me too, Cathy!

[@Kimbra-w8t]

very good I like

[@PatriciaKMarshall]

Yes it has good drape.

[@alovelyyarn]

It does!

[@annielegg7066]

After making 3 Ranunculus tops, they stipulate short rows here and there, I have never bothered with short rows and I don’t think they of my knitting friends have noticed, so just don’t worry about it…Anix🍓

[@annielegg7066]

Sorry those not they 🙈

[@dinahdeuel525]

The next step for Amber is to learn to sew!

[@alovelyyarn]

Yep!

[@sarahjanewheatley5472]

Just wanted to say that I really do enjoy your podcast Amber. Just one thing….. and I do hear other people make this mistake, but the past tense of the verb ‘to cast ‘ is actually ‘cast’ not casted. So sorry to be a pedantic knit picker (pun intended)!

[@thelefthandedreader6632]

I’m binding off my first garment…a casual short sleeved circular yoke design using a cotton yarn that I really liked. It’s K+C cotton. It’s not super heavy, the garment, but it’s not super light. I’m wondering about the Remix once it’s in a garment. And how did it block? Any substantial difference? I’m so glad you’re showing the Strawberry Remix! I had my eye on it. Yay!

[@alovelyyarn]

I used that cotton yarn to crochet a top for my daughter last year. I noticed some growth with the blocking, but nothing substantial. I also didn't do a lot of tugging either, though, because I didn't want it to grow too much!

[@LadyPatienceK]

Congratulations on your youngest finishing home education! If the finances are going OK, then take some time to re-adjust. Perhaps think about volunteering in a similar capacity to potential employment, to see how it goes. I graduated from home education half my lifetime ago. Now my youngest will officially start in January 2025. The state where I live in Australia requires registration of children who are 5 by January. My older 2 have always been home educated, so it's not a huge deal. It felt like a bigger deal when he weened last year. My last breastfed baby. 😢

[@judygrayson7896]

Love all your summer tops. Sorry to hear about your hot flashes. The no. 1 book right now is The New menopause by Mary Claire Haver MD. She talks all about symptoms and HRT aka Hormone Replacement Therapy. No need to suffer. A must read. She has a website to find Dr’s in your area that supports HRT. Good luck. 🍀

[@alovelyyarn]

Hi Judy! Yep! Already reading that one! Lol. I have followed her on instagram for about a year now and have learned so much!

[@tomgooch7884]

What do you think is the best needle material when using Remix? I really enjoy your podcasts!

[@alovelyyarn]

Hey there! Thanks so much! I definitely prefer using my metal needles rather than my wooden ones. There is less drag.

[@beanaasz4069]

I had to laugh at your mustard and ketchup comment. I would not have thought of that. Wishing you well with the changes in your life. Try sewing. There are numerous KZbin channels to guide you. Is there a fabric shop near you where you could take lessons?