Woolly World of Westknits - Episode 6

[@GayleSchlaefli]

We could never hate you. If you feel the hate it’s because they hate themselves. I appreciate your generous spirit Stephen in sharing your talent. I enjoy your KZbin very much it’s so inspiring.

[@phaedraknoeller4482]

They just don’t understand Knitting Obsession and covering yourself with clothes you knitted yourself 😬😘

[@estherrubin867]

You are the most generous designer that I’m aware of. The fact that your patterns are priced affordably and include videos that are incredibly helpful is unparalleled. The encouragement and support go hand in hand with providing new opportunities for learning and creativity. I just listened to Anderson Cooper’s recent podcast which deals with handling grief, but one of the contributors gave some sage Westian sounding advice: Do your best and don’t sweat the rest! Don’t sweat the complainers. If they signed up for an mystery knit and can’t handle the ride, then they should quietly get off at the next stop and keep their whining to themselves. It’s only yarn and knitting……no one’s life is on the line here. Take care and rest up after this big month.

[@izatricote]

you are a genius and a very sensible person. I love knitting MKALs for many reasons: it takes me out of my comfort zone, I learn new techniques and I am inspired by other knitters in the group. I don't always keep the MKAL shawls for myself for different reasons and if I don't like it, or just feel that I won't wear it, I offer it (they are such "Wow" gifts!). What is impressive is your creativity, not only for the Mkal but all year round. I will never criticize someone's work that I am not able to do.I hope to knit more MKAL in the coming years!

[@maximumyarnage]

You're videos are seamless. You do them expertly and none of that nervousness or anxiety comes through at all. You're one of the most amazing designers/teachers the world over and I rely on your guidance. You're human and mistakes happen. It's how we deal with them that matters.

[@Gammosiur]

The videos for the Twist and Turns shawl are so good. They made knitting the MKAL easy for me. The confidence you instill in your viewers makes us believe we can knit anything. My favorite part of the MKAL were the Twisted Stitch strips. They were so much fun to knit and are so beautiful.

[@Dizzyknitsandcurls]

Totally too much pressure ! Be as kind to you as you are to us! We love you

[@mattsisoler6125]

You are truly a wonderful designer and teacher. Thank you for sharing your genius with us. Your joy of knitting shines through all your videos.❤

[@kelleyjogirl]

25:40 Oh my word, that Isager colorway of the Hiberknitalong shawl is stunning!

[@sevynofnine]

Isn't it though. I really want to make that one.

[@savvy2172]

Absolutely loved the shawl… another Stephen West masterpiece…Stephen you have enriched the knitting community and we ❤️ you for it…….thank you X

[@joannjones601]

Stephen, you are amazing. You push us in a good way. I love your creativity. Your tutorials are great and they are easy to follow. I would never attempt your shawls without them. You are so encouraging.

[@haileygaddis9110]

This is my new comfort video I’ve watched 10+ times since it was uploaded😅

[@andreamagill7034]

I love making the Twists and Turns mkal, I am only on clue 2 but I am really enjoying it. I always learn a new technique and the step by step videos make it easy to follow. Thank you Stephen for another masterpiece 😊❤🎉

[@veronicabradley3420]

I learn so much watching you, your videos and techniques are so wonderful, even my husband was watching over my shoulder, very professional. Thanks.

[@steffanieiorio40]

Stephen I think you’re a great teacher, not only do you make sure everyone understands, but you make it so much fun-- I wouldn’t let the nay sayers get to you -- they obviously have no sense of style or appreciation for true talent. Thank you for all you share with us!!! You’re a true blessing!!!!!

[@serenagodmaire5602]

So thankful for your videos. Please try not to stress your joy in the process. Seeing you explaining everything is so helpful. A true gift. Loving the trellis socks too! Those colours are so perfect!

[@kneyda]

My favorite part of the MKAL was the mystery. I had no idea where this thing was going most of the time. At the end of week 3, people were still scratching their heads, me included. That makes it the best! I loved the first section the most because I had no clue as to why we were making those little icord pieces and then the reward as we got to loop them through! Great design!

[@margreffle]

This was my first WestKnits MKAL, and I so appreciated the thoroughly detailed videos provided. I can only imagine how long that must have taken! My favourite parts of the shawl were the crazy loops that we knit up between each chevron, and the cables. I love how the 4x4 squiggle cables ran down from the Accent Colour. I did not add the embellishment though, I may at a future time. I want to block and live with it first. In the meantime I am working my way through section 10. I loved the process of this MKAL, and I think you are brilliant, we are all so lucky to have an artist like you in this community. During the Hyberknitalong I'll be working on the Skystorm shawl with a 3 skein fade set I have set aside. I can't wait to sink my teeth into an almost totally mindless knit. Big hugs!!! 💗

[@JasWong]

Mr. Westknits, I am truly enjoying knitting the MKAL! Each section has been a joy to knit. I keep asking "what black magic is this?" each time I finish a section and it looks like yours. Thus far my absolute favorite was the cable section, I've always avoided cables, BUT to see them come alive as I knit each row, I can only feel joy. I LOVE your videos, there's a lot of rewinding as I try to get it right, and I'm so glad to have them as a tool. All your hard work is very much appreciated. Thanks for the yarn tips and all the other gems you so generously share. We all know who you are Stephen, if we're taking part in the MKAL we know to expect the unexpected, and we're here for it. Those braids! Who wouldda thunk it? Only Mr. Westknits. Thank you!

[@heatherlynnewest]

I loved the twists and turns MKAL! The shawl is really unique and beautiful. Your video tutorials are thorough and so helpful. I could not have knitted it without the tutorials. Thank you for a fun, mind expanding time.

[@scathatch]

your tutorials are very clear and an absolute life saver. thank you for the effort!

[@3stitchesshort]

I think the cables are my favourite part as well, I love the classic look of them. But honestly, please don't be so hard on yourself. We love your work and appreciate how much you do!

[@lmd7919]

I love the look of that cable saddle shoulder sweater! That yarn looks so cozy!

[@jennenns654]

I believe every shawl you create is a work of art. my favourite part of the shawl was the twisted rib and short rows

[@mishamoonchild]

My favourite part was knitting the twisted rib, especially since it was knitted in the accent colour. Your videos are amazing, I really appreciate all the effort you put into making them. They are always so clear in viewing and instructions. Thank you so much for all that you do.

[@dorianreid6541]

I love this year's MKAL shawl (still working on it). It is totally worth the work. I'm sure you already know this but your shawls are iconic. I was in line for tapas in Barcelona yesterday wearing my Shawlography and a woman walked up to me and said "I love your Shawlography". Your work is recognized internationally and you should be incredibly proud of your talent and creativity.

[@TheSablelou]

I can’t even begin to tell you how much I am loving Twists and Turns! And now the next shawl has me swooning! Thank you for all you do! Thank you so much for your videos! You make me remember it’s just one stitch at a time! Your patterns are truly works of art!

[@alliecravulz]

I visited the S&P shop this weekend when I was in Amsterdam and it blew my mind (and I ended up emptying my savings account ^^) I would love to have such a beautiful yarn shop close to where I live, nothing compares to touching and mixing the skeins "live"....a dream

[@judyurrutia6072]

You really challenged me with Twists and Turns wouldn't have made it without your videos. You are an excellent teacher! Loved the cables! Thankful for the Stripes for a rest Love doing your MKAL's THANK YOU!!

[@shelleymcmeeken3266]

I just LOVED every twisting, turning stitch of my first MKAL. And I LOVE the outcome I’m still knitting the final clue and I can’t believe I’ve knit such an artwork. Thankyou for the videos!! Amazing teacher. My favourite part is the braids. Then the cables with the embellishments. Thankyou Stephen 🧡

[@Melkitty1000]

The wedge and cabled sections are my favourite parts, but I love the overall shawl design! Your KZbin tutorials are just fantastic!! Thanks for all the effort you go to!! ☺️👍

[@Ophieknits]

Thank you for all the effort you put into knitting and filming. You are a treasure to new knitters like me! I didn’t get to do the MKAL, but SO excited for Hiberknit!!! 🥰

[@fionaatbromleycottagenz393]

Hey Mr Westknits, hope you’re having a wonderful woolly day. Twists and Turns, being my first MKAL ever, taught me so much…..new techniques, how to throw caution to the wind and use a really bold colour for the pop and how to ‘embrace my pace’. So from that you’ll probably guess that I’m still working on it. I truly love the cable sections but all of it has been great to knit….even the frustrating cast on, cast off. Thanks for your designs, I’m a big fan. Looking forward to doing many, many more.

[@margaretrodee3519]

This was my very first MKAL. I LOVED it. I’ll never miss out on the learning and the fun again. Your videos helped me every step of the way. Thank YOU thank YOU! They made all the difference. It was like taking a masterclass and I love knitting even more and feel more confident in my abilities. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE a single color MKAL. And!!!!, thank you for providing such an affordable experience! Seriously! Life is so expensive and crazy, and bless your soul, this was doable! You’re the best!

[@tanjadavids5809]

My absolute favorites are Dotted Rays and Painting Honeycombs. I still have to master brioche, phew, that is not easy... thank you for all the wonderful patterns. Enjoy Hiberknitalong, lots of love from very warm southern Africa. ❤

[@vickibradley8418]

I loved the braids when they were finished but did take a while to do. Extremely clever how you did it. You are a genius ❤

[@tracyshafer-kachel224]

I love the look of the braids on the Twists an Turns. My favorite sections to knit though were the cabled sections.

[@lenealve8414]

Hmm… my favorite part, at first: the anticipation! picking up the colors, planning ahead, waiting for the mystery to begin. For once a year knitting is just playtime. This year was all and more of what I expected, I enjoyed the cables, but now that I look back, it was the beginning, the first part, even with all the casting on and binding off, the payoff was so amazing!! Thank you for making a mystery shawl every year, Texture Time was my first one and it totally changed my way of looking at knitting. Your patterns are so much joy, I don’t know any other way of saying it, they are a joy to make and a joy to wear! (Oh, the hiberknitting shawl, so so so beautiful!!! I am so happy I have something new to wait for!) ❤

[@tyanneagle4630]

Your videos are incredibly clear. You are such a great teachers. I have become a much more adventurous knitter knowing your videos are there. I am still on clue two of twists and turns but am in love with the final result.

[@patytrico]

Love the basquetweave! OMG the branching brioche color!!!

[@EmilysTeaCup]

I love your videos so much! Its apparent how much work you put in to them. Thank you thank you thank you, you are a gifted teacher 💜

[@kathleenshaw5156]

Thank you for your generous gift of inspiration. I loved the first section of the MKAL. Not finished yet but working on a sweater, and going to start slipstravaganza. Keep us learning new techniques and styles. You force even a 77 year old to try new things. Thank you.

[@cheryljenkins9823]

I LOVE your videos. I love the way you teach and I hope you can learn to relax. I love the yoke on the sweater and just a texture body.

[@prettypostsupervision6544]

I loved the cables because I’ve never knit cables before and they are a delicate detail. Super cool

[@bolshoi1959]

Just a few minutes in and loving the new designs. Was wondering why I'm not knitting more of your patterns....then realised I'm actually sitting, knitting the Painting Honeycombs shawl. Loved the MKAL this year but I'm always busy with Christmas knits. Still have my Slipstravaganza blanket kit to work on. Retire in a couple of years, so less chance of life getting in the way. Knit, bike, sleep, repeat! X

[@dexterlockhart425]

I LOVE how the dogs just take over, your just so use to them they don’t stop you at all. Least the are quiet

[@deb2529]

I love twists and turns. I love the stripes! Your video tutorials are great. Love the new designs

[@westmaven]

Thanks for the videos for twists and turns they always help clarify my overthinking

[@lyndabaldwin8934]

Thank you for all of but specially the amazing tutorials. You have helped me advance my knitting immeasurably. 😊

[@thisMTknitter]

Your tutorial videos are amazing. I am a very new knitter and your videos for the MKAL helped me feel so successful in my first large project. Thank you

[@jema3021]

Cosy cabin is amazing ! I love this schawl ! Fantastic ! Thanks à lot !

[@charlaine8235]

I love the fact that you take the time to create wonderful video tutorials for your mkals. Thank you ❤

[@gabrielacanova4625]

I enjoyed each section for a different reason but those wicked short rows had me love the garter stitch/twisted rib area the most. Thank you so much for your dedication, I'm not sure I could have made it without your precious help. Roll on November 4th!! 💜

[@sharonkennedy8612]

Stephen it’s a pleasure to watch your videos. I think you are so funny. Your design ideas are outstanding. There are a lot of your patterns I would love to knit but have not tackled them yet but will in the future. You give me so much inspiration.

[@deboradeane1402]

My first MKAL, I’m still in clue 3 and I love it! My favorite part was knitting the antlers and the embellishments! I love the long shape!❤

[@knitcrochettiger361]

i love color work....i also love calbe work too.....intarsia cable work is so fun...wrapping your cable color on bobbins is so fun

[@sandracroley9784]

As I'm watching I'm knitting on the Ixchel Pullover, which is all mosaic knitting...so much fun! It would be awesome to include mosaic knitting in your MKAL 😃😃😃

[@manicspinner1959]

So amusing to hear about your behind-the-scenes stress re: making videos. You need to apply the same principles you encourage US to apply: Don't sweat it... just add an extra stitch, delete an extra stitch... We LOVE that about you; if it shows up in your videos, then, well, that's just a continuation of those lovely principles you encourage in us!

[@janec9038]

Stephen I LOVE your MKALs. Right now I am knitting clue 2. And really I am in no rush. I know when I finish and I will I will have a beautiful Stephen West shawl. This is my 2nd and I love the process of knitting a mystery with you. You are an awesome teacher! Love love all your works of art. They are truly master pieces. I am just happy you are willing to share your time and talent with other knitters. So Thank You for ALL you do! 🧶❣️

[@saraw8503]

Love the saddle shoulder sweater idea.

[@sueholubeshen9960]

I have to say that my favorite part is the twisted ribs....I learned a couple of new techniques...the braids and how to cable without cable needles...I'm trying to step out of my colour box ...so I think the hiberknitalong will be the way to go ( can't pick colours )..thank goodness you are here Mr westknits

[@wendyellis6402]

My favorite part of the MKAL Twists and turns is the traveling stitch straps. I have always loved the look of twisted stitches, and admired traditional traveling stitch projects. But, had never worked traveling stitches before - and I have a pretty extensive knitting repertoire! This lovely shawl gave me the perfect opportunity to learn and practice traveling stitches. If I have enough AC yarn, I’ll use my little iCord machine to add the embellishments to the antler cables. 😅

[@sandranokes7443]

What I enjoy about your mystery knit a long's is all the new things I learn to do. I'm always amazed at how much you dream up. I also like your approached to adding a stitch or taking a stitch away. It helps to take the stress out of it. I loved the Jacob's ladder and the cable sections. Not a fan of the long tails on each side. And I think I've had enough I cord for a while. lol On to the next thing from Stephen West. Oh, and last year, after I knit Shawlography, I knit Slipstravaganza. I have to say my favorite shawls of yours that I've knit, number one is Slipstravaganza, then Exploration Station. I've knit quit a few and have more to knit. Thank you for all the inspiration.

[@cydneyfowler1870]

I am slowly working on my twists and turns shawl. It’s a challenge for me as I am not an experienced or fast knitter. I am enjoying learning new techniques and your video instructions are fabulous. I am happy with my colors and will keep working on it until it’s done. I’m on clue 2. Thanks for the opportunity to make such a lovely project! I’m not a monogamous knitter lol. I always have lots of knit and crochet projects going since I fall in love with so many yarns and patterns and wouldn’t have it any other way. 😍

[@meganangell5597]

I did not do this make a long, since I just finished Shawlography! I don’t get a lot of time to knit, but I sure enjoyed that project. But I wanted to put in a vote for colored cables for next year’s adventure. Those are stunning. And Stephen, I enjoy your videos so much! They are fun, relaxing, you always make me smile, and you encourage me to be less, worried, less anxious about the mistakes I’ve made, and the things I don’t quite understand. hey, that could be a good recipe for life. Thank you for the pleasure you bring.

[@Kayemwhy]

I love the braided section because I’ve never seen this idea before. I was going back and forth about the last section, but someone posted it worn and I get it! I love it I can’t wait until next year. Thanks for another wild ride.🙂

[@joandewolfe5949]

The mystery shawl that U chose to knit is gorgeous!! I haven’t started mine yet because of personal reasons but I do look forward to the knitting of it. You are truly blessed with so much talent so watching U with UR KINDNESS IN TEACHING makes me relax when trying a new stitch. Thank U!! My cup runneth over!! 🧶😺😍🙏❤️. Joan

[@EAHsongs]

I love the Twists and Turns shawl ❤I think that it’s gorgeous!!! I am still knitting clue 3 and I can’t wait to finish 😊 My favorite parts to knit were the wedges and the cables. In the finished Twists and Turns the center piece is my favorite because it brings the drama. I love the Aurora Cabin shawl also!

[@lorrieschiller5201]

You never have to worry about your videos. Your demos and explanations are clear and concise. I have learned a lot from you Stephen and always like to see what’s next😉 Your happy enthusiasm is contagious an always inspirational. Thank you. 🧶

[@beatrizpena4565]

Each shawl you design is a masterpiece, absolutely brilliant. You are a very generous knitter. Thanks Stephen.

[@madalina.adamoiu]

This shawl is absolutely gorgeous! I liked knitting it even though I only learned to knit last year in October. Who would have thought that this year I will do this wonderful thing and that I will learn so many techniques? My favorite part was the first part, absolutely magical. I love this shawl and can't wait to finish it. Thank you Stephen West! ❤❤❤

[@ynfeen7340]

The Mkal was my 1st year of knitting celebration piece. October 2021 I started knitting. So everything is still new to me and I have been on a continuous learnig curve. The mkal was the steepest part of the curve, but also the best! Thank you for letting my knitting muscles grow in such a playfull way 😊!

[@gbitter1395]

I've been knitting for many years and learned new things from the Twist & Turns MKAL - I LOVED all the videos, so if I had a question I could just watch your technique. Still working my way through the shawl and am enjoying it so much. Since I haven't finished yet, can't tell you my favorite part to knit, but I do love the look of those cables. A huge thank you!!!!!

[@Dizzyknitsandcurls]

That last section 10 is what sold me I am looking forward to trying twists and turns

[@Lora2121]

I love the 2022 MKAL shawl! I am still finishing clue 4 and cannot wait to wear it. My favorite section to knit was section 1. When I saw that clue, I said "Wow!!! Stephen West, you are a genius designer!" I was blown away by the braids. I also love the cables and their embellishment. I hope you add cables to future designs. Thank you for such a great MKAL and I hope to snatch a Hiberknitalong kit to keep the fun going. You are such a good teacher and your videos are very helpful. You help me have confidence to try new techniques I would never imagine I could do.

[@jenniferwiltrout1975]

You are an amazing vid creator. Love, love, love your patterns and MKALs. Never, ever stop. 🙂

[@barbaraanne2136]

The hiberknit shawls are all beautiful.

[@mjennyt]

I actually love the way the first section looks (amd I'm still on it). The cables are lovely too. I was a little surprised with how it turned out, but the finished shawl looks beautiful especially when worn.

[@niknaiman5359]

My absolute favorite part of this MKAL was the videos!! I feel like I learned so so much by the way you explained it. I have been knitting for years and certain things I was pretty sure I was doing right. Something about the way you teach either solidified that I was indeed doing it right or you gave me a way to actually know (example M1L versus M1R). You are just a fantastic teacher! Thank you so much for that. I know it had to have been so time consuming to not only make such a creative, unique design but then to also do such in depth tutorials. You are just next level!!

[@angelafranklinlord8526]

This is my first MKAL (actually first MKAL ever!), and from the first stitch, I was in love with this shawl. I trusted your genius and the videos. Please know the videos were crucial…your reassurance and clear guidance made all the difference. Now, I want to try one of the previous MKAL shawls (and may make a second one! My absolute favorite section was the very first clue….what an interesting technique. I’ve learned so much from this MKAL, gained enormous confidence as a knitter, and will do my best to participate every year. You are pure genius….I have gone deep into the rabbit hole of all things Stephen West!

[@Knit2stitching]

I loved watching your instructional videos. I joined MKAL just to find out what it’s all about since everyone seemed to be buying yarn for MKAL. 😊 beautiful shawl!

[@lelukins]

I'm on Row 5 (yes really) of the KAL so I'm not sure I'll get to the HKAL... but I love the pattern so it's going on the to-dos. Edit: I want to add that all your efforts on the videos are VERY much appreciated.

[@barbmckinlay3400]

I’m not halfway done with Twists and Turns but loving it because of all the new things I learn and your awesome instructions/videos. I’m using a couple colors from my LQS (burgundy and pink) and grey from stash. Keep on pulling our chains Stephen. We all adore you and your talents.

[@lindawatt1791]

Thank you for mentioning how a yarn holds up overtime and wear. I've made several garments as gifts and to see them a year or two later, they just look ratty. Love this new Aurora shawl too!

[@KimClinger]

Mr West, your genius is delightful! I love the mystery knit along process. I just finished section 3, and am looking forward to some cables. My favorite part so far, was doing the cast off to section 1. (LOL); and looping up the braids. Keep being you, I love getting a notification that a new Stephen West video is waiting for me on KZbin!

[@Winterknits]

I loved knitting Twists & Turns, thank you for all the wonderful work you do!

[@katywuste9054]

Its stunning but beyond my basic skills. It doesn’t stop me watching and hoping one day I’ll be able to join in

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

I watched all the twist and turns videos and you did a GREAT job !!! Thanks so much !

[@ritatannehill7487]

Oh my gosh those Dustland socks are amazing !!!!

[@edithtanniru7600]

I liked all of the knitting but my favorite to knit was the river straps. They took me down a rabbit hole of twisted stitch knitting and I'm going to start a whole sweater when I finish the last section on my shawl.

[@katiebonnell3756]

This was my first time doing the MKAL, and I loved it so much! My favorite part to knit was the cabled section as well as the short row wedges. Thank you for sharing your creativity with us and creating fun knitting experiences!

[@TTKnits]

I’m loving this shawl. My favorite part was the surprise in the I order braids! I could hardly wait to get to the end. Thank you Stephen!!!

[@jolineknitsalot]

I love the shape of this shawl. The construction was really interesting. I loved the cable section and would love to see more!

[@cecileboudeau5958]

Say yes don' t stress ! Your videos are really nice and we all are gratefull for them. No one expect them to be perfect ! I did not participate to the MKAL but I watched the videos just for the fun and because I admire your work. You are a wonderful teacher and you bring joy and fantasy, so each video is a litlle pleasure in our kniiting journey. I send you lots of affection and gratitude ! Thank you !

[@crafthousemagic]

Stephen I love your attitude to spoilers after the MKAL 😂 I really loved every aspect of your design. Beautiful balance. Of colour and pattern, thank you!

[@erikobullock7504]

Thank you Stephen for so much fun knitting October again! This MKAL, I loved the big mystery.. especially between Clue 3 to 4, I had no idea how to end, so it was super fun. Also every year I enjoy seeing other fantastic knitters' colour pallettes, so inspiring. :) I loved you put some cables this time too!! Thank you, I love my Twists and Turns shawl!

[@conniewatson5010]

I LOVE YOUR COLORS!! YOU PICK OUT ON YOUR SHAWL!! ❤️👏😊☺️😁♥️🧶👍😁🤩... I LOVE THE PATTERN!! THUMBS UP👍👍😁👏😊☺️

[@debbibamfield6656]

I loved it! My second MKAL. Each section offers something new and exciting and often I learn a new technique or trick to better my knitting skills. And the video tutorials are superb. You make everything so approachable and doable. Okay, so Clue one seemed endless but OMG it was so worth the effort. The shawl makes me think of a bird, just beautiful, thank you!!

[@debbiemazza7422]

I loved the MKAL. learning to knit without cable needle was so cool and I’m using that on my socks. Can’t wait for Hiberknitalong Hugs to you, Stitch and Brioche!!!

[@cathyjencks5107]

Loved the MKAL! I’m just finishing week 3 and I loved learning cabling without a needle. Thank you for the video tutorials. They are so well done and are really helpful for visual learners.

[@Ritamay01]

Steven you’re a knitting genius … love it! ❤️❤️❤️

[@maybelater234]

I’m binge-knitting socks now too, for the first time in my life, for all of the same reasons as you. And that basket weave??? I’m going pattern shopping (again)!