Ysolda Knits Episode 1 - first look at my new sweater designs, a wip, and birthday yarns

Sharing my latest FOs and an exciting new sweater project, with lots of nerdy behind the scenes chat about designing knitting patterns that fit well. Grab a project and knit with me!
MENTIONED:
Polwarth Sweater: ysolda.com/products/polwarth
Sandnes Garn Duo and Line: www.sandnes-garn.com/yarn
Musselburgh Hat: ysolda.com/products/musselburgh
Inverleith: ysolda.com/products/inverleith
Stranded Dyeworks: strandeddyeworks.co.uk/collec...
Little Red in the City: ysolda.com/products/little-re...
Nieghborhood Fiber Co: neighborhoodfiberco.com/colle...
Wild and Woolly: www.wildandwoollyshop.co.uk/
Oh Wow project bags: www.loveitdesign.nl/about-us
Wool Dreamers Dehesa de Barrera: wooldreamers.com/en/dehesa-de...
Kalinka Linen: www.karinoberg.se/in-english
Yarnsub: yarnsub.com/
Ysolda Newsletter: ysolda.com/pages/subscribe
Join our preview knitters list: ysolda.com/pages/preview-knit...
__________________________
ABOUT US
At Ysolda we believe in the power of making, slowly and by hand, and that everyone should be able to access that magic. We aim to provide knitting and making inspiration and patterns to fuel your creativity, steady your days, and make beautiful projects. With over 15 years of blogging and designing experience, Ysolda and our team know a thing or two about knitting and craft techniques. To empower you to confidently tackle new skills, and knit the projects you dream of, we're sharing our experience in an extensive library of free tutorials that's growing all the time. ysolda.com/

[@SS_S.]

As the owner of a large bust, choosing pattern sizes was the most frustrating part of knitting. I discovered your little red book years ago and the section about sizing for upper bust instead of full bust was exactly what I needed! I've made many of your designs, and I've been privileged to be a test knitter - I'm delighted to find your KZbin channel too. Looking forward to more 😊

[@MsFuzzyBuddy]

That was super fun! It's always great to hear a designer talk about the logic behind patterns. Personally, I love learning about the in depth, technical design stuff. Also you're really relaxing to listen to. Thanks!

[@bluejemm]

What a treat! Thank you for posting. I enjoyed how you went into your thought process in designing garments. I hope you continue to make more episodes❣️

[@drippydots]

Super interesting to hear about all the little design elements that contribute to a good fitting sweater. I am also someone who loves to roll up sweater sleeves. This looks like such a great basic, sweatshirt wardrobe staple!

[@ginahilse3856]

This was excellent - please keep them coming!! ❤

[@TextileHouse]

Natural light is perfect. I’m loving your sweater. The shoulder detail is gorgeous and your design process is so well thought out. Thanks for sharing these upcoming patterns.

[@suemercer9859]

Loved this episode. And thanks for taking us thru the detail behind your designing approach. I appreciate the effort even more than I did before and I’m enormously grateful that designers like you have the skill and passion to create. Me? I love to do the do. Knit what someone else has wonderfully created. What a team xox

[@Jess38]

Yes,yes,yes, more episodes, please! Thank you for explaining the process of picking test knitters. I am a larger size and assumed that pattern designers would prefer smaller sized knitters.

[@ysoldateague]

Please do apply if there’s a design you like - we get far more applications per size in the small to mid range sizes. We’d love to have you!

[@wendysullivan5511]

When I went back to school I started making my notes from reading the text before class, then in class I could knit, improve my retention by predicting in my head what the instructor was going to discuss next, and add notes on anything new or different from the textbook. I got so much more out of class that way, and even if the teacher got off track, I didn’t feel like I wasted my time because I was knitting. Only years later have I figured out that is probably a little ADD of me… Loved hearing about your design processes-have always loved the details in your designs.

[@triplesss7229]

Wow! I love that sweater! I want to make it and hope it’s published soon. The fit looks perfect and not like “one size fits all.”

[@jla110661]

I am so happy to finally see you in "person" and hear about your process. I'm loving the nameless sweatshirt and the yarn choice for it. I've never made a drop shoulder sweater before but this one makes me want to get out of my comfort zone because it looks like something I would wear all the time. Enjoyed the podcast.

[@user-yn3he4rl5i]

I totally love your show as you guide us through your design choices. Can’t want to knit your designs and get lost in all the options and choices. Wonderful video. Thank you!

[@terinaobrien8245]

Really enjoyed watching and looking forward to your pattern releases - your approach to sizing and proportion is so thoughtful and detailed, really appreciate that and feel like casting on one of your patterns I have in my library immediately! Hope you continue to make these videos, I’m sure they’ll be very well received!

[@isabelespiritosanto]

Thank for doing this video, it made my day! I hope to see much more of you and your designs. I always loved your patterns and it's great to hear about your process design.

[@tacistudio]

I’m so excited I found your channel. I love all of your patterns and it’s so nice to “spend time” with you here now. 💖

[@ashleystahl2733]

I am totally with you on sensory needs on sleeves! And have the same issues with not really being able to process conversations. I have always figured knitting is good for people with autism ( I am) and for ptsd bc knitting uses both hands at once…it uses both hemispheres at once which helps your brain process information…..I could be wrong but it helps me too! Thank you for talking about it!

[@rosemaryfrew5571]

I loved your podcast, and explanation of your designs.

[@mostlyknitting]

Really enjoyed this video and hope you do more. Love your Polwarth sweater. I am onto my 16th Musselburgh hat - such a perfect portable knitting project. I have made so many of your designs. I find your instructions really clear and well-thought out and I really enjoyed your discussion in this video on the design process. Thank you for taking the time to make and post this video.

[@sequoiashelley]

I love all your nerdy details! Looking forward to your new patterns being published.

[@julieknitsandspins]

I really enjoyed today’s video. I am not that experienced, but know I don’t like the bat wing sleeve! Your explanation of how you think about just that on your designs. Really made sense to me. I for one really learned a lot and will be mindful of the tips you shared. Thank you for your time 🤗

[@adriennerichter8971]

It is so nice to put a face to the Musselburgh hat which I have almost finished knitting. Thank you for this.

[@laurad430]

Thank you. Wonderful wonderful video. Thank you for talking so brilliantly about fit and shaping. The upper bust! Looking forward to your next video and pattern!

[@LottaSocks]

I hope you keep the KZbin format! Love a LOT of your designs and this sweater is exceptional! Looking forward to making this! Appreciate the underarm shaping, reminds me of older gansey patterns (from way back, before internet, Ravelry…) that had a gusset at underarm. Thanks for sharing your design process & thoughts. See you in the next episode !!

[@christinas.317]

Dear Ysolda, I definitely want to see more of your very interesting episodes. I found it really great to hear about all your thoughts that go into designing garments that fit well. I am looking foreward to the release of your new "sweatshirt" pattern very much - definitely want to knit that and also try the Sandnes Garn Duo. Thank you for your great work, greetings from Austria. Christina

[@vinnie_451]

Thanks for the video. I always love hearing fromakers about their process. I'm about ready to adventure into knitting sweaters for the first time and am very excited to use your patterns. I've knit 2 Musselburgh hats so far and it might be the best most readable pattern I've ever used. My ADHD brain appreciates it. I cant wait to see your pride sweater finished. I'm just worried my wife will ask me for one if she sees it.😊 🖤🤎❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🩷🤍🩵

[@sheilamcmillan874]

Very interesting! Thanks for sharing all this information and educating us. I really love the sweatshirt and will have to knit one. I am also excited to hear that Knitworthy will happen again! Thanks Ysolda!❤

[@crafting-with-care]

I'm stitching my first Ysolda pattern (Mussellburgh hat) and I find it quite soothing with the easy stitching of just going round and round and round. I also really appreciate your consideration with your test knitters and doing what you can to lower barriers for those who may want to test knit but have some obstacles. Your inclusiveness is refreshing to see. Thank you.

[@beckywhitt7356]

I met you many years ago at Stitches in Atlanta. You were just delightful. It’s great to see you. Hope you continue.

[@ToothFairyPurls]

Thank you for sharing your design process with us. It is fascinating to hear how it takes shapes. I hope you will make more videos about your work. Happy belated birthday 😊

[@user-dv2hw2bu5d]

Loved the content! Learning about how to customize a sweater to fit is fascinating and especially important for larger sizes. Would love to see more videos like this one.

[@jacquelinehood5417]

I loved hearing about the design process in creating your designs. I have been sewing and knitting since the age of 10 and have designed patterns for cheerleaders and majorettes for our local university. The designing in knit wear does make more sense compared to sewing patterns. I usually add bust shaping to my knit garments and usually have to go up a couple sizes for my sleeves compared to my bust to get the best fit as I carry a lot of weight in my arms. I find that not many designers take the time to give those adjustments for their patterns. You would have to have the experience as a knitted to automatically know how to make those adjustments. I love your hat pattern and have made several hats in different sizes and plan to make more.❤ I will be watching for your next preview call.

[@Lynne-G]

I really enjoyed hearing your thought process on design features. Plus it made me want to attempt to knit your sweater. Looking forward to hearing more from you.

[@slowstitches]

I definitely would like more of your videos. This was great! Thanks.

[@MissSholia]

I'm a little late for this 1st episode but I think it's so nice you started a podcast! The Musselburgh hat is fantastic. I think the swatching-on-the-go thing has something to do with it (for me at least because I hate swatching, especially for a yarn or yarn combo I only plan to use once). I knit it for my hubby who has alopetia and shaves his head so he's always cold with regular knit hats. I knit it with a strand of woolen spun rustic wool + a strand of suri. It makes a very thick and warm fabric. I love knitting for university, too. You can get so much reading and thinking done while working on simple patterns.

[@nathalieslachmuylders]

Like the other commenters, I really appreciated the deep dive into construction techniques and am looking forward to the release of both the sweater you are wearing and the Musselburgh sweater. Understanding sweaters better is the next level I want to take my knitting to. (I baptized 2023 Year of Socks, where my aim was to experiment systematically to fully understand a great fit, work towards my best numbers for socks, and discover the construction process that I enjoy most. I baptized 2024 Year of the Sweater). My main issue with sweater techniques is that on Ravelry, and I have to say understandably for paid patterns, the construction elements are not described in sufficient detail on the page, so that I can know before I choose a pattern which specific construction techniques I will be trying out, so that I'm able to find out, after knitting only a handful of sweaters, how I can best achieve a fit and look that I am after and that I enjoy knitting. I find this the biggest lack when it comes to sweater patterns currently (not knowing if you pay for a pattern that will teach you something worthwile), so I was delighted to hear you explain so much about your wips. I will check out your book to learn more about bust fitting for sure. That, as well as 'good' waist shaping, avoiding underarm bagginess, and keeping a neckband from totally lifting and changing the upper proportions of a sweater are my initial struggles to try and knit a well fitting garment. What my dream pattern or course would be for a sweater is some kind of 'choose your own adventure' garment, but I understand this might just be an impossible mission for a designer... Looking forward to future vlogs! Best wishes from Ireland

[@jeannine7362]

So happy to see this! I love all the details. I'd love to see more, as well as in-depth info regarding adapting patterns for larger busts. That sweatshirt pattern will be on the needles as soon as it's released.

[@jennybrundage5381]

I enjoyed your video, especially the discussion of technical aspects of design. I look forward to more!

[@kerryrandall6618]

Ysolda, thankyou for sharing your thoughts on pattern fitting, I am excited that some designers are now embracing the concept of compound raglan and other techniques that assist with the fact they we are not cylinders, and that we have different proportions at different parts of our bodies. I have always had to adjust patterns to fit, and am sorry that I had not realised before now, that though your designs appear simple they are very consciously planned for fit. I am in my late 50s and still struggle with fitted garments (so am less willing to invest time in garment knitting), many of my experiments in adapting over boxy designs (the current pattern trend) for less ease, and proportionally narrower shoulders, are hit and miss in success rate, and as I live in a warm climate, adding bust adjustments to more fitted patterns knit in plant-based fibres always appears noticeable on the finished garments. Please continue to share your experience and projects.

[@jenniferslaydon98]

I loved this video. Very interesting to hear all of the considerations that go into a design. Would love to see more of these videos!

[@jamiethrogmorton2540]

Fascinating questions about knitting and thinking/comprehension.

[@tacistudio]

I’m super excited for the preview knitting. I would love to find out more about it. 💖

[@woochles]

I am super thrilled to hear a designer acknowledge that not all measurements increase at the same rate as bust/waist measurements do when one is heavier. I never knit sweaters until other plus size people have because I want to see what it looks like on a bigger body. Though sometimes I am happy to be the test knit in my size, it's only for certain designers.

[@judymarples5758]

Loved this! i especially loved all the techie details about your designs, they are very inspiring. I hope you will continue to let us peek into your creative mind :-)

[@jolager]

Thanks for the video. I enjoyed hearing more about your designs and your process!

[@ashleyanderson1644]

Loved this! A pleasure to watch.

[@helenw889]

I hope you make more videos. I really enjoyed listening on how you go about creating your designs.

[@rociochon2033]

Congratulations on a superb podcast! Keep up the good work!

[@nancyistenes7643]

Excited to find this first episode, hope you record on a regular basis.

[@sueyarborough663]

I would love to hear more especially the shoulder arm designs. Very nice job-am looking forward to your next video

[@dawnkanis42]

This is so helpful. I'm new to adult garment construction. I've hesitated mostly because of fit issues, short stature, larger hips than bust. I'll watch your future KZbin posts and look for your patterns. Thank you for the encouragement to keep making garments.

[@LS1556]

I really enjoyed this. Sweater construction is something I am still learning about, so found the explanations very informative- would love to hear more. Looking forward to the upcoming patterns too!

[@JaneMunro]

I really enjoyed this. Thank you so much. Can’t wait to watch the other episodes. ❤

[@raquelleone2594]

Thank you! I loved the episode - I liked hearing about design detail and body shaping considerations.

[@cbrad2903]

Yes please more of this ❤

[@alittleclickaway]

This was so enjoyable. Please do more.

[@ingeborggroth1415]

I am soooo happy that you started podcasting/vlogging, or whatever you mean to name this video. Thank you so much for this additional effort to your workload !!! Your in-depth knowledge of garment construction and your dedication to details are wonderful! Already looking forward to your next episode 🌈🌈🌈

[@lisanakao1043]

Really enjoyed how you shared your thought process with us. I would love to hear more from you.

[@ysoldateague]

Thank you! I'm hoping to make more videos like this

[@Diepdin]

Enjoyed this very much, keen to see more on the fitting thoughts too

[@christycampbell1874]

Absolutely loved this video! So interesting to hear all about your thoughts on designing and all of your makes. Would love to see more vids!!

[@user-vu3oj8yj4j]

I really enjoyed this video (as well as episode 2). The way you talk is very conversational, it makes me feel like we’re having coffee together.

[@OkayestChemist]

I tuned into this video after seeing the finalized Anyday Sweatshirt pattern. I learned so much about sweater shaping from just listening to your thoughts! I plan on casting on for this sweater soon. And I might get myself into a little bit of trouble by going off gauge, but the detail in your schematics and patterns helps me out a lot because even if I don’t get gauge I can do math to ensure the fit still works exactly as you intended. Thank you!

[@andreacrazy4knitting]

I have been looking for a sweater design like this! Thank you for sharing!

[@brianababka5437]

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this video in my queue this morning! I really enjoyed listening to the construction details, and especially appreciate the under arm shaping for larger bodies on the drop shoulder style. The first garment I ever knitted for myself several years ago was a drop shoulder construction and I couldn't understand at the time why it looked so awful/different on me than it did on everyone else even though the pattern was "size inclusive" and my gauge was spot on. Definitely signing up for your preview knitter mailing list - I would love to be a part of your knitting group for larger sizes. Thank you for sharing your projects and insights! I hope you continue to do these videos - I'll be watching for them. :)

[@MelodieMassicotte]

I really enjoyed this episode, I hope there will be more 🥰

[@lindapayne9474]

I love the way you describe the design process for a good fit and appealing finish. Thank you

[@littleberry247]

After watching episode 2 first then this one after; keep them coming the content is very enjoyable and the technical stuff is easier to understand when someone explains it and can demonstrate on their body and/or knits rather than just looking at diagrams. I’ve used your advice from the Little Red in the City book over the years about choosing a size based on upper bust measurement rather than full bust. If needed I’ve then added extra stitches after the underarm separation to accommodate my full bust which is 5/6” larger than my upper bust. This means that garments fit better and also don’t hang off my shoulders which are on the narrow side.

[@cglick01]

Yes, do more!! Loved this! Love listening to you and hearing your rambles on design, fit, and more…

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

Being a 2XL size, I really appreciate the care you take in sizing you designs. Thanks !

[@lyndalowery480]

Loved this! So informative! Love to hear more!

[@louissyllagarcia9232]

It's fine to find you here, but now I can't wait for the Musselburg sweater.

[@mongrain8934]

I am looking forward to the release of both patterns of the Sweatshirt and Musselburgh sweaters, and for some more episodes similar to this one, with explanations regarding their construction and fit. ❤

[@knitnkitten]

Thank you, Ysolda🌻 More podcasts like this - yes please🥰

[@lucielevac2503]

I truly enjoyed this podcast. It was so interesting and I certainly would love for you to do more. Thank you !

[@jillstearns1452]

I am looking forward to when you release your new pattern. I love knitting your Musselburgh hat pattern.

[@noriskern7385]

We’re so lucky to have yarn architects such as you. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@jenniferparmeley5768]

Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece is what came to mind when I saw your sweater in Sandnes Garn. It has a higher cotton content, but it is a nice round yarn and I've knit with it a good deal. It's a bit heavier, due to the cotton, but it makes a lovely sweater. Loved the fit details you shared, thank you for all of that.

[@roselimke8736]

This was amazing! Loved hearing about your process. Your new sweater you are wearing is something I would wear all of the time. I really hope you do more videos.

[@marcelachangknits]

Nice to see you!! Love the episode!!!

[@user-vh1fw7nr9p]

This was fabulous! Thank you SO much for sharing your creative ideas and your amazing knowledge of sweater architecture. I'd love to hear more and more and more . . . ♥

[@theenablingcook8041]

I’m so looking forward to your new knitting pattern. I loved your podcast and look forward to more!

[@teadreyer1510]

What a lovely episode, thank you. I have always loved your designs, and really appreciate your thoughtfulness in the construction of your items. As a petite person with a busty top, it is always so helpful when designs are well thought out in this area. The sweatshirt is fab 🙌 and I'll look forward to either testing for you or if not, knitting it when it comes out 😊 Please continue making these great podcasts! Cheerio.. Tea

[@kristenlagasse2051]

The way your mind works is genius! It was incredible listening to the geometry of designing, loved it!

[@lizk1216]

I love your designs, I have knit so many of them and they are so well done. The sweater you are wearing is really nice and such a calm colour.

[@shannonoconnor2875]

Thank you for the detailed descriptions. I’m brand new to the idea of changing patterns to fit me and this was incredibly helpful!

[@pameladombek1695]

You are a natural! I so enjoyed hearing your thoughts on shaping and fit. Please keep recording. Looking forward to the sweatshirt pattern release, but for now I’m inspired to knit a second Musselburgh!

[@shoppingjam6407]

As others have said, I really enjoyed listening to this video. Loved hearing your voice and passion for your work. Hearing the consideration you give not only for inclusive sizing but sizing adaptable for different bust sizes. Kudos as you are one a few in giving those considerations to your work. I love the look of the yet unnamed sweater you are wearing and will look forward to its appearance in the fall lineup. My knitting mojo has returned after a long CoVid slump. Currently working on an afghan to send off with a family member moving thousands of miles away from all the rest of the family. It is my version of sending a hug along.

[@antonellapavese3724]

Thank you for this episode! Please make more, I love the information you share and how you explain it.

[@jenniferwiltrout1975]

Excellent podcasts and yes, please keep making them. Love hearing about your processes.

[@suejensen5961]

More episodes please!!! Can’t wait for the Mueelburgh Ragland.

[@bethpaschal7859]

It was great to knit while listening to you discuss your creative process and knit construction. Thank you!

[@emrys1976]

The details in that sweater are beautiful. I can't wait to cast that on!

[@janet_Luv2_Knit]

Loved this video and I learned a lot. Your explanation of garment details was extremely interesting and I look forward to your patterns for the new sweaters. Love your Musselburgh hat pattern and have made a few with another on the needles.

[@ruthievintage]

Loved watching and look forward to future videos. Your designs are super smart 😊

[@monacarterknight8117]

So excited to see the Musselburgh sweater. Yay🎉 And I love you video. I love to geek out and hear your process. And I relate to the ADHD, anxiety and other issues. You are so not alone. ❤

[@ladyindigo9835]

This was great ysolda ! It was so much fun to see you explain the knitting of this gorgeous sweater,

[@helentattersall4396]

Really enjoyed watching this. I found it very inspirational and am now going to have a look at your patterns and find something to knit for myself. Loved your green sweatshirt knot

[@judithburke3637]

Thankyou ysolda how lovely to see you and you have given us a great podcast you are a natural loving your designs too

[@susie077]

I loved this! I’ve been following you since the early days of your blog and your first Knitty design and it’s so nice to see and hear you ‘in person’. Thanks, Susan

[@melissafriedrich3171]

I really loved your podcast, thanks for sharing your thought process in designing. I’m excited for the raglan sweater and the tee/cap sleeve tank.

[@jeffersonmorant]

That’s so thoughtful of you Melissa, Thanks for your positive review,How are you and how’s the weather over there?

[@sophiecoxie3574]

Thanks for recording this video! Loved learning more about your design process and garment construction techniques. ❤