Down Cellar Studio Podcast

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 327 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

In my Travels

KAL News

Events

Life in Focus

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, AdoreKnit, Doolittle Yarnery & Starfish Fibers
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Tapestry Socks
Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Tapestry Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Nazari Top
Available for free on Ravelry & the designer's website.

 
Tray-mat
Pattern: None

Yarn: Lion Brand Made with Love The Cotton One in the Red Red Wine Colorway (60% Cotton/ 40% Acrylic) Aran weight yarn

Hook: H (5.9 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I ran out of yarn and lost the ball band. I need to re-assess.

 
Swiss Placemat
Pattern: none. Chained 52 to start. Working in linen stitch

Yarn: Save the Yarn Albert (80% cotton/20% alpaca) in colorway 8238 (green)- 3 skeins purchased in Basel Switzerland

Hook: G (4.0 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Cast on another linen stitch placemat. This one for our dining room or kitchen island. Chained 52 to start on this one.

 
Goldwing Sweater
Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck

Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: Picked up first sleeve. Working through decreases.

 
Confetti Cannon Socks
Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal

Progress: I am beyond heel on the second sock.

 
Brainstorming
I need to cast on a worsted hat for Laura (but first I have to find the yarn). I think I'll make the Sweetly Striped Hat by Chit Chat Knits (Pro Shop Sponsor)- $4.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry

At Rhinebeck I may buy yarn for the Oporto Tee by Suzanne Sommer $8.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry

How cool is this Spiderweb dress- crochet pattern from Etsy?! Maybe for next Halloween?

 
SIZES- Made to measure! This pattern is written for size small but there are notes in red on how to change the size to fit your body!
 
MATERIALS
4.5 mm hook
Yarn Weight: Fingering, Sock - I recommend cotton or bamboo
Yardage: 130-260+ yards (depends on size)
Gauge: 14 stitches by 12 rows = 4" using Hdc
 
From the Armchair
 
The Compound by Aisling Rawle. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Let's Not Go Overboard Here by Erica Hendry. Amazon Affiliate Link.

The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. Amazon Affiliate Link.

 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
In My Travels
 
Tune in to hear about my recent trip to France!
Yarn stores visited
Paris- Lil Weasel

Colmar- Le Comptoir des Laines

Basel- Save the Yarn

Strasbourg- Happy Wool .com  (sells Phildar yarn)

 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party '26 Details
Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27

Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry

Sign up (must be registered to win) - opens 8/19

Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season)

Finish a Project?

Enter for points using the Points Tally Form

Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends

Check your Stats on the Scoreboard

Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread

Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates)

Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread

Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread

 
Updates in this episode
Help us welcome Laura (LauraKnitsPA) to our Commissioner Team!

Check out the Official Pigskin '26 Logo bags available from AdoreKnit. Check out my unboxing of the tote Steph gifted me on Instagram.

Check out our PIG chat threads in the Ravelry group

Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 1 (October) is Doolittle Yarnery. Find the Knit/Crochet in Black merch here if you want to join in. The full challenge details are in this Ravelry Thread.

The Tailgate Talk Challenge has begun! Check out the Ravelry Thread.

Our Official Sponsor for Quarter 2 (November) is Fangirl Fibers. The full challenge details are in this Ravelry Thread. We hope you'll join us and make a DK gift for someone you love.

Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December): Suburban Stitcher- festive fun

Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January): Yarnaceous Fibers- challenge TBD

 
Events
 
Friday 10/16- Indie Untangled in Saugerties, NY

Thursday 10/15 & Friday 10/16- Woolen Affair in Kingston, NY

October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY

November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA

 
On a Happy Note
Babysitting fun with Gabriella and Zachary.

Driveway paving!!

The slightly slower pace of fall and getting out for walks with my friend.

Labor Day weekend pool time with family and friends.

In Colmar, Marta was looking for a pretzel and thought she saw one but it had feet!

I took an adult tap and jazz class at my friend's dancing school.

Dan & Shay concert with Riley & getting to see her school.

Seeing my friend Nathan in Damn Yankees

 
Quote of the Week
"There is something so special in the early leaves drifting from the trees – as if we are all to be allowed a chance to peel, to refresh, to start again." – Ruth Ahmed
-----
For website:
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group

Instagram: BostonJen1

YouTube: Down Cellar Studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio

Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio

Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Bookshop Affiliate Link

Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 326 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Knitting in Passing

KAL News

Events

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu & Mandi's Makings
 
Off the Needles
 
Neckerchief #2
Pattern: none

Yarn: Valley Yarns Huntington (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in colorway 22 Navy

Needles: US 6 (4 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Goldwing Sweater
Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck

Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: Nearly done with the ribbing now!

 
Log Cabin Blanket
Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel

Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)

Hook: I (5.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.

Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.

Progress: 30 squares completed!

I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.

 
Confetti Cannon Socks
Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Confetti Cannon Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

New base for Woolens & Nosh that was very kindly gifted to me by Michele to try out! Thank you! I love this new base.

About the Colorway: butter yellow, pink, purple, coral, tan, fuschia, aqua, lime/grass green. Mini skein: teal

Progress: I am beyond heel on first sock.

 
Big Feelings Socks
Yarn: Woolens and Nosh BFL Fingering (85% SW BFL + 15% Nylon) in the Big Feelings Colorway (2nd Quarter 2026 club colorway)

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I am beyond heel on first sock.

 
Deschain
Pattern: Deschain by Leila Raven ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Yarn: Berroco Remix in colorway 3922 Buttercup

Needles: US 10 (6 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I am only a few repeats into the front of the top.

 
Tray-mat
Pattern: None

Yarn: Lion Brand Made with Love The Cotton One in the Red Red Wine Colorway (60% Cotton/ 40% Acrylic) Aran weight yarn

Hook: H (5.9 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I have crocheted around 5 inches so far.

 
Brainstorming
 
Blanket options I'm considering
No-Purl Ribbed Blanket by Purl Soho (free knitting pattern)

Football Lovie by Alissa Clevenger $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry

 
Project to bring to France
Tip Top Tank Fine by Emily Bolduan- Free Ravelry knitting pattern

Islander Vest by Claire Jackson- $11 knitting pattern (options for pay what you can)

 
From the Armchair
 
The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth. Amazon Affiliate Link.
In Her Defense by Phillippa Malicka. Amazon Affiliate Link.
I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Watching:
Silo Series on Apple TV- season 3

 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Knitting in Passing
David sent me photos of his Pollen Party socks at work and at Pilates!

 
KAL News
 
Pigskin Party '26 Details
Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27

Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry

Sign up (must be registered to win) - opened 8/19

Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season)

Finish a Project?

Enter for points using the Points Tally Form

Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends

Check your Stats on the Scoreboard

Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread

Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates)

Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread

Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread

 
Updates for this episode:
The next Stretches for Stitchers session (from Fitness by Mara) starts Sept. 14th but participants can join at anytime or use a single class pack!

Check out our Quarter 1 (October) Challenge hosted by Doolittle Yarnery. Details in this Ravelry Thread.

Thanks to Ravelry user Elisewentwest for updating her worksheet for project tracking. If you want to check it out click here and then make a copy of it to edit for your own tracking purposes.

 
Events
September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes)

September 17-20: Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul

September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY

September 24-27: Greater Boston Yarn Crawl

October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY

November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA

 
On a Happy Note
Laura's Visit- Flight Club Boston. Lolita for dinner. Sunday- breakfast at Yaz's Table, thrifting and shopping for college stuff with Riley.

Megg and I saw Jagged Little Pill at Company Theatre

Riley getting off to college successfully!

Seeing Aila and Hattie perform in the Cabaret show

Facetime tour of Riley's dorm

Marta is meeting Laura and I in Colmar, France!

A step challenge through my gym has me out on more walks. Lovely message from Natalie (remembrances pottery) about a stone wall she's building after seeing one on my vlogmas walks.

Megg and I went to Liz's band, Safe Journey's, show at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. Check them out on Instagram. Then on Saturday, Dan, Dad and I went to an outdoor musical festival in Providence, RI where Safe Journey was playing. We had lunch and beers at the pavilion at 195 District Park. We really enjoyed the Guild Brewery beers and seltzer.

Rhinoceros at ART in Cambridge wearing thirfted dress.

 
Quote of the Week
 
"Summers had a logic all their own and they always brought something out in me. Summer was supposed to be about freedom and youth and no school and possibilities and adventure and exploration. Summer was a book of hope. That's why I loved and hated summers. Because they made me want to believe."
 
―Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
 
 
No episode on 9/15. I'll be in Paris!
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group

Instagram: BostonJen1

YouTube: Down Cellar Studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio

Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio

Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Bookshop Affiliate Link

Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 325 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

From the Armchair

KAL News

Events

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Wild Violet Socks
Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
Right as Rain Socks
Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
Summer Brights Cozy
Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde- $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts

Yarn: Crafter's Secret Cotton in Turquoise & Brights

Hooks: F (3.75 mm) & G (4.0 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Goldwing Sweater
Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck

Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I finished the yoke, blocked it, measured, split for the sleeve. Helical knitting for body. Had about 2 inches in about 2 days.

 
Log Cabin Blanket
Pattern: Log Cabin Square by Julie Harrison. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Video tutorial available on the Little Woollie Makes YouTube Channel

Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis (mostly from Advent calendars 2023 & 2024)

Hook: I (5.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

My color placement is inspired by this project/pattern available on Ravelry.

Inspired to pick it back up after see Sue (from Legacy Fiber Artz)'s version on their latest podcast episode. She bordered with cream before seaming. I love it. You can see a peek in this Instagram post.

Progress: 30 squares completed!

I bought two skeins of Dirty Water Dyeworks Lucia DK (SW Merino Nylon blend) in colorway March sky to try to border/seam with.  I found a YouTube video to use as a guide for joining as I add the last row of moss/linen stitch.

 
From the Armchair
 
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune. Amazon Affiliate Link.
 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
KAL News
 
Splash Pad '26 Wrap Up
Splash Pad Party '26 Final Prize Winners Announced

157 players with entries during the Splash Pad Party!

7 participants with over 100 entries for prizes- jstuntz, mostlymunhies, ddorf4, roocmc, socalknitgirl, eyenowhour and valknits15! Nicely done!

Check out the Summer Celebration Thread on Ravelry to see pics of things the community made this summer.

Thanks as always to Wendy & all of our sponsors.

 
Pigskin Party '26 Details
Event runs 9/9/26-2/15/27

Everything you need can be found in the Start Here Thread on Ravelry

Sign up (must be registered to win) - opens 8/19

Rules (includes changes made for the '26 season)

Finish a Project?

Enter for points using the Points Tally Form

Share in the End Zone Dance Ravelry thread to celebrate with friends

Check your Stats on the Scoreboard

Have a Question? Post it in this Ravelry Thread

Sponsor List can be found here (check often for updates)

Pro Shop Sponsors can create Exclusive Items which are shared in this Ravelry Thread

Coupons & deals from our Sponsors can be found in this Ravelry Thread

 
Events
September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes)

September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY

October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY

November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA

 
On a Happy Note
We are getting our driveway paved!

I went for fun nails again!

Riley took Dad and I to see Tim McGraw, Lady A and The Chicks at Fenway! Her friend Maddie also joined us.

Camping and kayaking on the Saco River in Maine.

Dan and I went out with a few of our friends for Margarita's birthday.

My cousin Gayle came up from Florida for a visit. We had a rocking pool day on Sunday! Then on Monday evening, Dad and Gayle picked up Dan and me for dinner and a walk around the lighthouse.

I'm going to France with my friend Laura in September!

 
Quote of the Week
A Blessing for the Life You're Bracing For by Kate Bowler
 
Bless you who still have popsicles to drip, 
tomatoes to slice, books to leave facedown for just a minute longer, 
and evenings that don't yet know they are numbered.
 
May you resist the annual migration 
toward freshly sharpened pencils, color-coded calendars,  
and the familiar lie that next month deserves more of your attention 
than the one still sitting in front of you.
 
Bless you who linger over one more meal outside, 
one more chorus of cicadas, one more porch sit, 
trusting that ordinary rituals are already a life well lived.
 
May you savor what remains
before you begin rehearsing what comes next, 
because August has always been generous
with those willing to stay exactly where they are
for just a little while longer.
 
—Kate Bowler
 
------
 
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group

Instagram: BostonJen1

YouTube: Down Cellar Studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio

Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio

Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Bookshop Affiliate Link

Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 324 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

From the Armchair

Some Years Later

Knitting in Passing

Crafty Adventures

In my Travels

KAL News

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu
Check them out at their trunk show at South End Yarn Co in Newburyport until August 7, then at Fiber Revival in Newburyport, MA on August 8.

 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Wicked Witch
Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters)

Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash

Hook: C: 2.75 mm

Ravelry Project Page

Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.

 
Dorothy
Pattern: The Wicked Witch by Ana Maria Liasch da Silva ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & $4 on Etsy (sale)- Etsy also offers larger bundles of Oz characters)

Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic yarn from stash

Hook: C: 2.75 mm

Ravelry Project Page

Note: I found the wig cap to be a bit small. Check before starting to sew in place.

 
Mine! Socks
Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Wild Violet Socks
Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: 1st sock finished. 2nd sock part way through the heel flap

 
Right as Rain Socks
Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Fingering Weight in the Right as Rain colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: 1st sock is finished. 2nd sock is onto the foot.

 
From the Armchair
This Story May Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Whistler by Ann Patchett. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano. Amazon Affiliate Link.

 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Knitting in Passing
Roc loves to visit yarn stores so we went to:

Wicked Good Yarns in Braintree, MA where he bought scissors, a kit for a chicken and Joann gifted him the tapestry needle he was looking for.

Elissa's Creative Warehouse in Needham, MA where he bought blue yarn to cast on an elephant.

Stitch House in Dorchester, MA where Roc found a bright mini skein he liked and I restocked my favorite knitting stitch markers.

 
Crafty Adventures
Riley worked a bit on the cuff of a sock with her Area 51 Fibres Be FearLESS colorway yarn. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for mine. She also started a diamond painting project and crocheted several rounds on her hexagon blanket. She's using white worsted weight yarn held with minis from the advent yarn Nicole sent her.

Marta and Roc both worked on his diamond painting project- a seaturtle. Marta got a crochet kit for a slice of pizza at Walmart and was able to finish 2 pieces with the yarn from the kit (with some heavy mods on the second one).

Roc completed 2 hippo stuffies out of microfiber blanket yarn (free pattern from the Friendly Fox site). He finished a dinosaur he started during his last visit and the chicken he bought this year.

Gabriella got a Craft-tastic learn to knit kit for her birthday (on sale at CVS right now). It came with a small circular loom. I taught myself how to do it and made a small axolotl. Came out cute! Has patterns for a bee and a panda too.

 
In My Travels
We visited Tall Ships while they were in Boston

Museum of Ice Cream (lots of fun, especially with kids. We spent about 90 minutes there)

Bota Borg

24 quests- each is a series of escape rooms. You can do as many as you like with teams of 3 or more. You choose 2 or 4 hours. We loved it and would definitely go back.

The Great Gatsby (musical)

We enjoyed seeing our small towns from another perspective.

 
KAL News
Splash Pad Party '26 Details
Event runs 5/22-7/31

Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1

View Stats and/or Verify Registration here.

Check out our Sponsor List

Splash Pad '26 Official Rules

Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you!

Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.

Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.

 
Splash Pad RAVELRY Links
Start Here Thread

Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread

Coupon Codes Thread

Questions Thread

 
Tune in to see if you won a July Participation Prize

Pigskin Party will kick off with the NFL on Wednesday September 9th. Get those WIPs done before then!

 
On a Happy Note
Pottery from Riley! Wow

A few amazing pool days during 4th of July weekend with family and friends.

Riley & I went to the Megan Moroney concert!!

Score N' Hole pool game!

Marta's visit highlights

America's Funniest Videos- especially these two contenders for best video of the year. We had running jokes based on these for 2 weeks straight.

Riding around in Riley's Jeep. Kayaking. movies, night swimming, Making up songs. Going for ice cream & slurpees. Taste tests & inside jokes. I felt like I was at summer camp!

On our last night togetherwe made up lyrics to a song from the Six musical we'd been listening to and Riley made a video using it. Adorable!

My boss gave us 2 of his older kayaks. Dan bought a new rack for the truck so we can fit 5 inside the bed and the 2 longer ones on top.

Our friends visited from PA. Millie and twins Rhiannon & Teaghan are so cute- especially in their matching bathing suits.

 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Quote of the Week
 
"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time." – Aliyyah Eniath
 
------
Thank you for tuning in!
 
Contact Information:
Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon!

Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group

Instagram: BostonJen1

YouTube: Down Cellar Studio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio

Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio

Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel

Knit Picks Affiliate Link

Bookshop Affiliate Link

Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link

FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 323 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:
 
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins

Brainstorming

From the Armchair

Knitting in Passing

In my Travels

KAL News

Events

Life in Focus

On a Happy Note

Quote of the Week

 
Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu (2nd Episode of the Month)
 
Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints!  Check them out in person July 18th at South End Yarns in Newburyport, from July 24-26th at The Gathering at Westfield State hosted by the Northeast Handspinners Association (check out the Saturday evening ticket option for only $25), and don't forget Fiber Revival August 8th in Newbury, MA
 
Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Pollen Party Socks
Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pollen Party colorway + 20g mini (I think it's Legacy Fiber Artz mini)

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

 
On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins
 
Goldwing Sweater
Pattern: Goldwing by Jennifer Steingass ($8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 6 (4.0mm) for body and US 5 (3.75 mm) for rolled neck

Yarn: Valley Superwash DK in Sand (MC) and handspun from Wound Up Fiber Arts for CC (Ravelry page for handspun details)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: I'm working on the colorwork yoke (only about 8 colorwork rounds left)

 
Jelly Roll Blanket   
Pattern: Crocheted Jelly Roll Blanket by Kay F Jones ($6.70 US on Ravelry)

Hook: H (5.0 mm)

Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Mini Skeins + other minis from stash

Ravelry Project Page

I was inspired by KnitwithNat's blanket- check it out on Instagram.

Progress: I finished my 8th strip and I'm 1/3 into the 9th. Still loving this project!

 
Mine! Socks
Yarn:  Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Fingering (90 SW Targhee, 10% Nylon)  in the colorway- Mine! aka A Gull Takes Off with Bluberry

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress- I knit the heel of the sock on the plane to NYC, knit on the foot during Schmigadoon and got half way through the toe on the way home.

 
Wild Violet Socks
Yarn: Wild Violet Fibers Merino Sock (85/15 SW Merino/Nylon) in the OOAK #155 Colorway

Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)

Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)

Ravelry Project Page

Progress: 1 sock is just beyond the heel. 2nd sock is a few inches into the leg

 
Brainstorming
Gabriella's birthday ideas
Elphaba (crochet pattern for sale on Ravelry & on Crochetlandia Site)

Dorothy & Toto (crochet pattern- free on Ravelry)

Glinda pattern (crochet pattern- free on Crochetlandia Site)

Another set available on Etsy from AnaMariaCraft: Crochet Amigurumi Pattern Bundle Wizard of Oz – Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Wicked Witch & Good Witch $24. Her patterns are also available on Ravelry but if you want a bundle, there are better deals on Etsy.

 
From the Armchair
Kin by Tayari Jones. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Dirtbag, Massachusetts: A Confessional by Isaac Fitzgerald. Amazon Affiliate Link.

Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild. Amazon Affiliate Link.

 
Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
 
Knitting in Passing
I shared a story about another knitting finding me before the Broadway show we were seeing began.
 
In My Travels
Riley and I took an impromptu trip to NYC when she was asked to babysit a local family while they were visiting NY.

Friday- we saw Schmigadoon!

Saturday- RIley and I got coffee and bagels before we met Laura to visit the Museum of the City of New York to see murals of "Another Wonderland" by Abram Champanier. Riley went off to babysit Saturday night. Laura and I enjoyed a leisurely night in at the hotel.

Sunday- Riley and I set an alarm to head to Butterfield Market to buy Dot Cakes. We took a stroll through Central Park before thrift shopping and lunch. Riley went to babysit. I met Laura at Shukette then I went solo to see Operation Mincemeat. 

 
KAL News
Splash Pad Party '26 Details
Event runs 5/22-7/31

Splash Pad Party Registration is open as of 5/1

View Stats and/or Verify Registration here.

Check out our Sponsor List

Splash Pad '26 Official Rules

Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you!

Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.

Find official SPP'26 images you can use on social media in this Google folder.

 
Splash Pad RAVELRY Links
Start Here Thread

Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread

Coupon Codes Thread

Questions Thread

Prizes:  we have 48 prizes to give away this Splash Pad season. Tune in to hear if you're a May/June winner!
 
Events
July 31-August 1: Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA

August 8- FIber Revival in Newbury, MA

September 12 & 13: Boston Fiber Festival in Boston, MA (full or half day passes, or 2 day passes)

September 19 & 20: Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in Greenwich, NY

October 17 & 18: NY State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY

November 7: Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA

 
 
Life in Focus
July 2 is half way day of the year! Let's do a check in on my 26 in 2026 List:
 
A-Aim for one night at week at the pool in July and August- make it regular and invite friends to pop over

B- Blood- donate at least 4 times (1/20, 3/17)

C- Christmas Sleepover

D- Declutter 26+ items- delivered a trunk full in February

E- Events- go to at least 26 ticketed events (I have 36 on the calendar for this year!)

F-Find 2-6 new things and try them out! 1) Orange Bike Beer 2) Dot Cakes in NYC,

G-Go on a trip with Dan (just us) Anniversary Trip to Portland

H- Headshots for Hattie

I- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum- Go there

J- Journal- Write 365 entries in my I Remember Journal about Mom (inspired by Liz Craft who talked about it on Ep 451 of Happier in Hollywood podcast)

K- Knit at least 2 projects with handspun (Treysta sweater, Inclinations + bonus Goldwing Sweater WIP)

L- Literary pursuit- read at least 65 books (11 as of February, 24 as of 4/27, 30 as of 5/29, 36 as of 6/24)

M- Museum- Museum of the City of New York

N- NYC- go visit Laura at least once-- visited in April & Jun

O- Organize a FearLESS Living Fundraiser

P- Puzzle- do at least 1 with Dan

Q-Quarterly review of calendar/photos & goals (to make Year in Review easier and faster)- calendar it!
March done, Q2 review will get done this week.


R- Restaurant- try at least 1 new local restaurant (Blu in Theater District 3/26)

S- Socks- knit 26 pair- 11 done so far.

T- Tattoo- started following some artists on Instagram (plan end of year so can donate blood)

U- Up the amount of muscle in my body- at least 1 pound by end of the year. Making good progress.

V- Vlogmas- take the year off (even if you're tempted)

W- Wheel- sit down at my spinning wheel every month (put reminders on my calendar at the beginning of each month to help remind me) Jan, Feb, March, April, May done

X- Cross 1 thing off this list that no longer serves me (H hattie headshot)

Y-Yoga at least 2-6 times

Z- Create Zone to keep important papers

 
On a Happy Note
Millie graduated from 8th grade. Dad and I were able to go.

Riley's graduation party!

Father's Day pool day at my dad's! Dad let Gabriella pick out a few of Mom's Oz things she likes including a book that she's flying through.

Thought I broke my toe on wrought iron chair leg- but think maybe it was a bad sprain I'm so grateful it's healing well.

A sweet moment with Riley

Fun nail art!

I got a lovely text from Alicia at ZK of many of our DCS friends!

 
Quote of the Week
 
"We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibers, as sympathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us as effects."
 
― Herman Melville
 
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FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada

Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/

Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.