Do you know the story behind the fiber you're knitting, crocheting or spinning? Before it makes it to your yarn pusher, all non-plant fibers most likely belonged to a creature. Linda Cortright, editor and publisher of Wild Fibers magazine discusses the magazine and her fiber travels. Wild Fibers educates and promotes all aspects of the natural fiber industry with special emphasis on sustainable practices and responsible use of natural resources throughout the world.

While Stephen was away traveling, Michael heard Linda speak at the Spindles and Flyers guild in El Cerrito, CA about the Chantang nomads of Ladakh and their cashmere goats in northern India. Cosmically, two weeks later, the universe aligned so Stephen enjoyed seeing Linda's presentation at Rhinebeck, aka, the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival.

Other topics discussed:

• The mentioned men's pattern from the Summer 2006 issue of Wild Fibers is not available online. (Does anyone know the name of this sweater or have a photo? Let us know!)
• Wild Fibers'Breeder's Directory
• Ladakh cashmere fiber available for purchase while supplies last. Email Wild Fibers' office
• Wild Fibers writer's guidelines for submissions
• United Nations International Year of Natural Fibres 2009
• Keep the Fleece, an international competition in celebration with the United Nations International Year of Natural Fibres

For those of you who want to subscribe, Linda has offered YKNIT listeners a 10% discount rate which is applicable to subscriptions (both new and gifted), as well as back issues. Enter the promo code "Yknit" when you place your order online. This offer is valid through December 1, 2008.

Contest Winners
Congratulations to our winners from episode 14 with Brooke and Maia of Tactile Fiber Arts. The new-to-spinning winner is BeckyJean and the already-been-spinning winner is Noricum/Andrea. Thanks to everyone who entered and shared their stories. We love reading about your yarnie passions and hope you're reading them too!.

A big thank you to everyone who listens, reviews, recommends and responds to YKNIT! Without you, we're nothing.

YKnit? It's a great source of fiber!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Walk on the Wildside" performed by Lou Reed from Transformer (RCA, 1972)
• "Wild Thing" performed by Tone Loc from LÅc-ed After Dark (Delicious Vinyl, 1989)
• "Tree Hugger" performed by The Rugburns from Taking the World by Donkey (Manifesto, 2004)
• "Heat Wave" performed by Ethel Waters from The Incomparable Ethel Waters (Okeh/Columbia, 1933)
• "Variation on Genesis" and "Bounty Full of Crops" performed by Ravi Shankar from Genesis: Music from the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Milan, 1986)
• "AÃrauyqtyn Aschy KuÃi" performed by MaÃtres de la Dombra from Dombra du Kazakhstan (Buda Musique / Believe Digital. 2006)
• "Joyce No. 2" performed by Johnson Mkhalali from The Indestructible Beat of Soweto - Volume One
• "Para Elisa" performed by Los Destellos from The Roots of Chicha: Psychedelic Cumbias from Peru (Barbes Records, 2007)
• "The Thing (Main Title)" by Ennio Morricone from The Thing: Music from the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Universal, 1982)
• "Kashmir" performed by Lez Zeppelin from Lez Zeppelin (Emanation, 2007)
• "Kashmir" performed by Rockabye Baby! from Rockabye Baby! Lullaby Renditions of Led Zeppelin (Baby Rock Records, 2006)
• "Born to Be Wild" performed by Steppenwolf from Steppenwolf Gold (ABC/Dunhill, 1971)
• "The Wild Boys" performed by Duran Duran from The Wild Boys (Capitol, 1984)

SÃle (pronounced Sheila) Convery is the hostess with the most-est, creator and Queen Bee of KnitOneOne, a nexus of crafting know-how in Berkeley, CA. More than a community organizer, SÃle has catalyzed a community of learning, fun and friendship for knitters and crafters of every stripe. Sitting on the cheery studio's back patio, she shared how KnitOneOne came to be. In addition, some of the fabulous KnitOneOne instructors share their thoughts on this special place.

A few of instructors and friends of KnitOneOne:

• Jesse Loesberg, aka Yarn Boy
• Tammy George, aka PuNk rAwK pUrL
• Sonya Philip aka KnitSonya
• Kate Freeman aka Speedy Needle
• Kira, aka Kira K Designs
• Julie, aka Cocoknits Designs
• Emily Jan, timbuktu design, website designer
• Nancy Friedman", naming and tagline
• Women's Cancer Resource Center (SÃle met Kate at the Yarn Divas group here)
• East Bay Poodle Rescue

CALLING ALL GUY KNITTERS!
The Men's Fall Knitting Retreat will be held during November 7-9, 2008 at the Point Bonita YMCA Center. More details can be found on Ravelry or on MenWhoKnit.com. Please tell all the crafty guys in your life to get in touch with us if they'd like to participate. And if you know any businesses who'd like to donate yarn, patterns, tools or fiber, please put them in touch with us.

Contest Winners
Episode #13, YKnitalong: GlennaC (Ravelry) won a signed tote and a signed copy of Knitalong by Larissa & Martin Brown. It has made it's way to Canadialand.

Congratulations to our winner and thanks to everyone for sharing your Knitalong spinning tales.

Always, a HUGE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT.

YKnitOneOne? It's all about the shortbread, baby!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Turquoise" performed by Milt Buckner from Send Me Softly (Capitol, 1957)
• "John Naughton's Reel / Another Paddy Fahy Reel" performed by Martin Hayes And Dennis Cahill from The Lonesome Touch (Green Linnet, 1997)
• "Oh Sheila" performed by Ready for the World from Ready for the World (MCA, 1985)
• "She Can Knit" performed by The Clancy Brothers And Tommy Makem And Their Families from Irish Folk Songs and Airs (1994, Legacy International)
• "Do You Believe In Magic?" performed by the Lovin' Spoonful from Do You Believe In Magic? (Kama Sutra, 1965)
• "Broken Monitors" performed by B. Fleischmann from Humbucking Coil (Morr Music, 2006)
• "Ball O' Yarn" performed by Martin Carthy with Dave Swarbrick from Second Album (Topic, 1993)
• "Sheila" performed by Tommy Roe from Greatest Hits (Curb, 1970)
• "Hair" performed by the Cowsills from Painting the Day: The Angelic Psychedelia of the Cowsills (El Records, 2006)
• "SÃle" performed by Reeltime from Song Of The Green Linnet (Green Linnet, 2000)
• "ONE ONE Pennie" performed by Oscar James (with digital drop-ins from SÃle) from The Power of Courage (KOJ Productions, 2004)

Like a circle in a spiral, like a wheel within a wheel, never ending or beginning, I think you know just what we feel... when we're spinning... well, when WonderMike is spinning. Maia Discoe and Brooke Sinnes of Tactile Fiber Arts Studio join the Yknit guys for this episode. WonderMike chatted with these spinning divas one late night after a month-long series of spinning classes held at KnitOneOne in Berkeley, CA. They spoke of many spinning things: past, present and future.

The following people and topics were mentioned:

• Birkenstock Shoes - Required spinner attire
• Spindlewood Spindles
• Conference of Northern California Handweavers
• California Cashmere Company
• Straw Into Gold - historical information
• Richmond Art Center
• Norwegian Purl
• Barbara Walker's Stitch Guides
• Celia Quinn
• Judith MacKenzie McCuin
• Earthues Natural Dyes
• Tactile Ravelry Group
• Aija, the scouring, spinning and knitting blog-star of sockpr0n
• Beacon Bend Alpacas
• hizKNITS farm photos from Beacon Bend Alpacas

• A Dyer's Garden by Rita Buchanan
• The Craft of Natural Dyeing by Jenny Dean
• Indigo, Madder, and Marigolds by Trudy Van Stralen
• Want Natural Colour? by Jeanie Reagan
• The Art & Craft of Natural Dyeing by J. N. Liles

• A Perfect Red by Amy Butler Greenfield
• Color: A Natural History of the Palatte by Victoria Finlay
• The Root of Wild Madder: Chasing the History, Mystery, and Lore of the Persian Carpet by Brian Murphy
• Mauve: How One Man Invented a Color That Changed the World by Simon Garfield

• The Alden Amos Big Book of Handspinning by Alden Amos
• In Sheep's Clothing by Nola Fournier & Jane Fournier
• Start Spinning by Maggie Casey
• Teach Yourself Visually Handspinning by Judith MacKenzie McCuin
• Spin It by Lee Raven
• The Yarn Book by Penny Walsh

The first prize is for the non-spinners or just-got-bit-by-the-bug folks. Tell us what drew you in. What was the thing that hooked you? Your prize is a Learn to Spin kit which contains a 2.1 oz. Schact Hi-Lo Spindle, 2 oz. of naturally dark BFL, 2 oz. of naturally dyed BFL, an organic cotton tote and "Spin It" by Lee Raven!

The second prize is for the experienced spinners. All you have to do is tell us your FAVORITE thing about spinning. That's it. Your prize is a $50 gift certificate.

To enter either contest, please leave a comment on Yknit.com or on Ravelry under the YKNIT group discussion. One winner for each prize will be randomly selected from all the entries. DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS OCTOBER 15, 2008.

CALLING ALL GUY KNITTERS!
The Men's Fall Knitting Retreat will be held during November 7-9, 2008 at the Point Bonita YMCA Center. More details can be found on Ravelry or on MenWhoKnit.com. Please tell all the crafty guys in your life to get in touch with us if they'd like to participate. And if you know any businesses who'd like to donate yarn, patterns, tools or fiber, please put them in touch with us.

Contest Winners
Episode #12, Y Would Dye 4 U: Scout donated a skein of her glorious superwash merino sock yarn in the Marigolds colorway. Our randomly selected winner from the entries is Alex, FetchBoi40639 on Ravelry. His prize is already on its way to Missouri.

Congratulations to our winner and thanks to everyone who participated! The entries for this contest were inspiring.

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• Dizzy performed by Tommy Roe from Tommy Roe's Greatest Hits (Curb, 1970)
• Fanfare for Rocky performed by Bill Conti from Rocky: Original Motion Picture Score (United Artists, 1976)
• Cinematic Snippet performed by Mark Hammil (Luke Skywalker) and James Earl Jones (Darth Vader) from Star Wars, Episode V, Empire Strikes Back (20th Century Fox, LucasFilm, 1980)
• If I Were a Carpenter performed by June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash from Ring of Fire: The Best of June Carter Cash (Dualtone, 2005)
• Comme Un Igloo performed by Etienne Daho (with digital drop-ins by Maia) from Paris ailleurs (Virgin France, 1991)
• Spinning Wheel performed by Blood, Sweat and Tears from Blood Sweat and Tears Greatest Hits (Columbia, 1971)
• Spinning Around performed by Kylie Minogue from Light Years (Emd Int'l, 2000)
• Spinning Away performed by Brian Eno and John Cale from Wrong Way Up (Opal, 1990)
• It's a Small World After All performed by The Chris Walden Big Band from No Bounds (Origin, 2006)
• Sheep performed by The Tiger Lillies from Farmyard Filth (Misery Guts, 2000)
• The Wheel performed by Rosanne Cash from The Wheel (Columbia, 1993)
• Spinning Straw into Gold performed by Barry & Holly Tashian from Straw into Gold (Rounder, 1994)
• The Windmills Of Your Mind performed by Varla Jean Merman from Enough About Me, An Unauthorized Biography (Peak Productions, 2000)

Always, a HUGE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT.

YSpin? It's where it all begins!

You are not alone! Knitalongs (or KALs) have likely existed from the first moment two stitchers got together to kvetch and work on the same projects. Author Larissa Brown discusses her book Knitalong which provides an introductory course in online KALS, a history of knitterly communal behavior and some groovy patterns to sharpen your knitalong skills.

The following people and topics were mentioned:

• Larissa's art
• Yarnissima's Firestarter Sockalong
• Olympic Sox 2008 KAL
• Mrs. Dalloway's bookstore in Elmwood (Berkeley, CA)
• Melanie Falick (STC publishing)
• Martin Brown, Knitalong co-author, journalist and Larissa's husband
• Michael Crouser photography
• Wenlan Chia, author of Twinkle's Weekend Knits
• Heather/The A.D.D. Knitter
• Chawne/Cauchy09
• whip up - handcraft in a hectic world
• Knit a River
• Peace Knits
• Adrian Bizilia, Hello Yarn
• Sarah Gilbert
• Stumptown Coffee
• Abundant Yarn & Dyeworks
• (not mentioned on the podcast, but an oft-requested item pictured in the book) PezDiva's knitted strawberry pattern

KAL CONTEST
We've got a signed copy of Knitalong and a signed tote bag (for your KAL projects) for one lucky winner. To enter, please leave a comment about your most enjoyable KAL experience. Tell us on Yknit.com or on Ravelry under the Yknit group discussion. One winner will be randomly selected from all the entries. DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS SEPTEMBER 15, 2008.

CALLING ALL GUY KNITTERS!
The Men's Fall Knitting Retreat will be held November 7-9, 2008 at the Point Bonita YMCA Center, just north of San Francisco, CA. More details can be found on Ravelry or on MenWhoKnit.com. Please tell all the crafty guys in your life to get in touch with us if they'd like to participate. And if you know any businesses who'd like to donate yarn, patterns, tools or fiber, put them in touch with us.

Contest Winners
Episode #11, Man Camp: Unique Sheep donated a skein of their Footprints superwash merino sock yarn in a decidedly masculine "Grey Street" colorway. Our randomly selected winner from the entries is cristinabeena on Ravelry. Her prize is already on its way to Scotland.

Congratulations to our winner and thanks to everyone who participated!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• Peer Gynt, Suite No. 1, Op. 46 by Edvard Grieg performed by Neville Marriner and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields from A Portrait of Sir Neville Mariner (Philliips, 2000)
• Knit One, Purl Two performed by Glenn Miller & His Orchestra Feat. Marion Hutton & The Modernaires from The Glenn Miller Story Vol. 15-16 (AVID Entertainment, 1942)
• Vogue performed by Madonna from The Immaculate Collection (Maverick, 1990)
• I Could Write a Book performed by Dinah Washington from For Those in Love (Emarcy, 1955)
• Love is all Around performed by Sonny Curtis from Sonny Curtis (Aspirion Records, 2007)
• Love is all Around performed by HÃsker DÃ from Eight Miles High (SST, 1990)
• Together performed by Joe Williams and Harry "Sweets" Edison from Together (Roulette, 1961)
• The Coffee Song performed by Frank Sinatra from Ring-a-Ding-Ding (Reprise, 1961)
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas performed by Boris Karloff from Dr. Seuss - How the Grinch Stole Christmas/Horton Hears a Who (Warner Home Video, 1966)
• Git Along Little Doggie performed by Old Town School Of Folk Music (with digital drop ins by Larissa Brown) from Songbook, Vol.2 & 3 (Old Town School Recordings, 2007)

Always, a HUGE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT.

Yknitalong? It's better to do it in a throng!

If you're a fan of hue, saturation, fiber and indie dyers, you probably know Scout of Scout's Swag. But if you don't, come join us for a rainbow romp with the Queen of Color herself, Ms. Scout (aka Jamie). She came to Berkeley to teach her yarn dyeing class at Knit One One. Minds were expanded, fibers were transformed and color ruled the weekend.

There's also a Y KNIT exclusive: Scout made a special announcement! You've got to listen to the episode to find out the details of how she will be making the world a brighter place in the near future.

The following tidbits were mentioned during the show.

• previous podcast interviews of Scout: Lime & Violet and Sticks & String
• the Knitty article on Kool-Aid dyeing that inspired it all
• Now Norma Knits and the Dulaan Project where that fragrant first yarn went
• further proof of her saturation obsession on Scout's Flickr stream
• the magic motivation that keeps her going (Baby Gaggia Espresso Maker)
• Marisol, loyal customer, friend and word-of-mouth maven from Purls Just Wanna Have Fun
• secret special announcement partner, STC Craft | Melanie Falick Books
• New Mexico neighbor and fellow yarn dyer Adam, aka Yarn Nerd
• her other husband John, aka Yarn Ball Boogie

Contest
What are your favorite color combinations? Leave us a comment below or on the Ravelry Y KNIT group.

One winner will be randomly selected to win a skein Scout's Swag superwash merino fingering weight yarn in the "Morning Glories" colorway. DEADLINE FOR ENTERING THIS CONTEST IS AUGUST 31, 2008.

As always, a MASSIVE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT.

Y Dye? It's chromatic!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Pomp and Circumstance" by USAF Heritage of American Band from Ceremonial Music (Altissimo Records, 2006)
• "I Would Die 4 U" by Prince from Prince The Hits/The B-Sides (Paisley Park/Warner Brothers, 1993)
• "Java Jive" by The Ink Spots from 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of The Ink Spots (MCA, 1999)
• "Bo-bo Ski Watten Totten" by The Superkids, recorded by Supermom (Scout Records, 2008)
• âI'm Just A Little Elfâ by The Peter Pan Players from Christmas Classics (Peter Pan Records, 2000)
• "Choice of Colors" by Curtis Mayfield and the Impressions from The Young Mods' Forgotten Story (Curtom, 1969)
• "No Noise" by Karma Shabda from Buddha Cafe (Intentcity Records, 2003)
• âCollege Of Heralds Marchâ by The Queen's Birthday Parade from Trooping Of The Colour (Legacy International, 1995)
• "Do You Dream in Colour" by Bill Nelson from Quit Dreaming and Get on the Beam (Mercury, 1981)
• "Colour My World" by Chicago from Chicago (Columbia, 1970)
• "True Colours" by Cyndi Lauper from the film For the Bible Tells Me So (First Run Features, 2006)

This one time at Man Camp, I saw men knitting and spinning and having the time of their lives. The first-ever Men's Spring Knitting Retreat (MSKR) was the event of the year for those who attended. If you don't believe us, read some of the recaps from Ted, Joe, Paddy, Kenny, Mel, Sean and Guido. You can also see the fevered pitch discussions on Ravelry archived thread (last count 416 posts).

QueerJoe and KnitterGuyTed had a vision for a decidedly masculine gathering of fiber-heads. This historic happening was hosted at the idylic and picturesque Easton Mountain Retreat in upstate New York, not too far away from historic Woodstock (well, it's actually closer to the less-pop-culturey-historic Albany).

Stephen bit the bullet for Team YKNIT and traveled to the OTHER coast where he interviewed, taught and met online friends offine. In addition to Joe and Ted, he spoke with cotton-spinning master VTknitboy Chris.

It takes a village of fiber enablers to make super sweet schwag bag. A big thanks to the generous sponsors of the MSKR. If you like to see men knitting and spinning, please patronize these fine establishments:

• Schoolhouse Press
• Black Bunny Fibers (Carol)
• Briar Rose Fibers (Chris)
• Crystal Palace
• Woolcott & Co. (Sean)
• Wild Geese Fibers
• Louet North America
• Danny Ouellette Knitting
• Green Mountain Spinnery
• Hyphen Boy Designs
• Oceanwind Knits
• Rabbitworkds Fibre Studio
• Red Maple Sportswear
• Spinning Loft
• Shelridge Farms
• Nomad Press

Contest - ENDED ON AUGUST 16, 2008

The kind folks from The Unique Sheep sent a lovely skein of their yarn, just like the yarn for the The Ram Club for Men. It's 334 yards of sport weight superwash merino in Grey Streets colorway.

To enter, tell us your story of teaching a Y-Chromosome (man or boy) how to knit or spin OR how you're planning to do so in the near future. Post your story the comments below or on the YKNIT Ravelry forum. One winner will be randomly selected from the eligible entries. DEADLINE: August 16, 2008.

Yknit and spin? It's MAN-tastic!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Where the Boys Are" by Connie Francis (single) (MGM, 1960)
• "Where the Boys Are (demo)" by Neil Sedaka from Neil Sedaka: The Definitive Collection (Razor & Tie, 2007)
• "Johnny Are You Queer?" by Hotbox from Blowin' Our Cover (Roach Coach, 2007)
• "Hot for Teacher" by Richard Cheese from Tuxicity (Surfdog Records, 2003)
• "The Boys are Back in Town" by Thin Lizzy from Jailbreak (Mercury, 1976)
• "Boys Don't Cry" by The Cure from Boys Don't Cry (Fiction, 1979)
• "Cottontail" by Oscar Peterson from JATP '53 (Jazz at the Philharmonic) (Verve, 1953)
• "Simple Man" by Klaus Nomi from Simple Man (RCA, 1982)
• "Boy" by Book of Love from Book of Love (Sire, 1985)

SPECIAL NOTE: If you are having problems leaving a comment on the Yknit.com show notes, try to enter the anti-spam confirmation text with no spaces (i.e. run the two words together). It's very odd that this problem is occurring and we've reported it to LibSyn (the host). So sorry for any inconvenience.

Do you do it in public? Are you a voyeur or exhibitionist? Are you out and proud?

Y Knit hits the streets and investigates PDC (public displays of creation) all over the Bay Area.

Back in May, we headed down to the 3rd annual Maker Faire. Put on by the peeps behind CRAFT and MAKE magazines, the Maker Faire is a physical manifestation and celebration of all things DIY. Drawn down by the Yarn Harlot's appearance (sounds like the knitter's version of the Virgin of Guadalupe), we were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of creativity. Natalie Zee Drieu, senior editor of CRAFT magazine, tells us all about it.

After a long, long day of knitting, steampunk outfits, Diet Coke and Mentos fountains, hanging with the Harlot, fire sculptures, rockets, motorized cupcakes, hackers, crafters and a few friends (PuNk rAwK pUrL and Knit Sonya), we can't wait to go back. The next Maker Faire is in Austin, TX, October 18-19. If you are in the area, don't miss it!

Next up, Michael ran all over the Bay Area to check out World Wide Knit in Public Day 2008 events. Sile Convery from KnitOneOne and Elaine Kim of KimChiCrafts hosted the Berkeley event and Laurie (Trumom) hosted the Albany event. Then, it was across the Bay on BART to Union Square for the San Francisco event.

In addition to interviewing the many attendees, Michael was seen spinning in public with his favorite new toy, a Golding Tsunami Ringspindle. Stephen spent the day with his synchronized swimming team, not spinning.

Contest Winners

Episode 7: Blue Moon Fiber Arts special edition Knitters Without Borders. Our winner made a donation to KWB (aka Knitters/Doctors Without Borders) and requested that they remain anonymous.

Episode 8: A signed copy of Cat Bordhi's New Pathways for Sock Knitters: Book One was won by Yarnbird (Verena).

Episode 9: 3 signed copies of Stephanie Pearl-McPhee's Things I Learned from Knitting (Whether I Wanted To or Not) were won by Orange (JenniferP), Seamless (Sharon), and Soo (Soo).

Congratulations to our winners and thanks to everyone who participated!

We used snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• Power to the People by John Lennon from Working Class Hero (EMI, 2006)
• Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy by Stinky Weaselteats from Ren and Stimpy TV show created by John Kricfalusi and Billy West (Nickleodeon, 1991)
• Le "manine" di primavera by Nino Rota from Amarcord (CAM, 1999)
• Robots by Flight of the Conchords from The Distant Future (SubPop, 2007)
• Scarborough Fair/Canticle by Simon and Garfunkel from Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Thyme (Columbia, 1967)
• Girls Guitar Club Theme by Karen Kilgariff and Mary Lynn Rajskub from the short film Girls Guitar Club directed by Ruben Fleischer (Ruben.FM, 2001)
• Chocolate (Mr. Gone's Club Sandwich) by Afro Elements from Nude Dimensions 2 (Naked Music, 2001)
• Who's That Woman by Phyllis Newman from Follies (TVT, 1998)
• The Limit by Lovebirds from Nude Dimensions 2 (Naked Music, 2001)

Lastly, a HUGE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT. We're honored that you choose to spend 30 (or so) minutes of your time with us every few weeks. Here we are at 10 episodes, and we've got over 3000 new friends!

Yknit in public? It's genetic!

Lucky for you, dear listeners, we have, not one, but two conversations with Stephanie. In April, she and Stephen sat down on the last night of BMFA's sock camp to talk about (what else?) knitting. More recently, she gave Mike and Stephen an exclusive and very exciting announcement.

Contest
We have two signed copies of the Harlot's latest book, Things I Learned from Knitting (Whether I Wanted To or Not). Tell us what you're doing on Worldwide Knit In Public Day, June 14. (It's also Stephanie's 40th birthday!) From the submissions, we'll randomly choose two winners.

Y Knit? C'est fantastique!

We use snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Lover" Richard Marino and his Orchestra from The Magic Beat (Liberty, 1960)
• "Nine to Five" Player Piano from Player Piano - Country Hits (Tandem Music Group, 1993)
• "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" The Ink Spots from Swing High! Swing Low! (Past Perfect / Finetunes, 1998)
• "Stephanie" The Partridge Family from Come on Get Happy! The Very Best of the Partridge Family (Arista, 2005)
• "Nitty Gritty" Jocelyne from Jocelyne (Polydor, 1965)

Tune in, turn on, and don't drop stitches with Stephen and Cat Bordhi as she explains her journey from teddy bear artist to award-winning author and knitting designer/teacher/pied-piper.

Stephen and Cat sat on a dock over the water at Orcas Island and discussed curiosity, MÃbius strips, and rethinking sock design.

Contest
Cat Bordhi has released a book on her new approach to sock knitting called New Pathways for Sock Knitters and we have a special signed copy for our "Cat's Pyjamas" contest. Who do you think is the bee's knees in the world of fiber and knitting design? Let us know in the show comments section below or on the Ravelry Yknit group. One lucky winner will be selected at random!

DEADLINE FOR ENTERING THIS CONTEST IS JUNE 20, 2008

The words from our parody of the Jabberwocky are as follows:

"Twas purling on the garter toes
with Cast-On Magic, Judy's Way
All L-Rinc-y where increases grow
And the sole craft displays!

Beware the Jabbersock, My Son!
The heels that strike, the cuffs that catch
Beware the gusset holes undone
And Coriolis spirals, natch!"

Y Knit? It's Cat-a-Tonic!

We use snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "White Rabbit" Jefferson Airplane from Surrealistic Pillow (Runt, 1967)
• "White Rabbit" Enon from Don't know When I'll Be Back Again (compilation benefiting American Veterans of the Vietnam War)(TuneCore, 2007)
• "My Favorite Things" Betty Carter from Inside Betty Carter (United Artists, 1964)
• "One" Harry Nilsson from Aerial Ballet (RCA, 1968)
• "I'm Free" The Rolling Stones from Out of Our Heads (London, 1965)
• "Freedom! '90" George Michael from Ladies & Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael (Epic, 1998)
• "What's New Pussycat" Tom Jones from Greatest Hits Live (C/F International, 2006)

Laugh along with the gentle Socks that Rock sock club members as they embody the mature and peaceful spirit of knitting, surrounded by the majestic Pacific Northwest on Orcas Island off the coast of Washington.

Stephen and his mother spent a week under the stern tutelage of Cat Bordhi (Insouciant Socks), Cookie A (Traveling Stitches), JC Briar (Cast-on Cornucopia), Stephanie Pearl-McPhee and BMFA dye mistress Tina Newton (Rock the Sock).

In addition to classes, there were toilet paper cozies and sock puppets. And a "talent" show. And there were monkeys. Lots and lots of mini hand-knit sock monkeys. And photos to prove it!

Campers and Sockateers share their favorite camp memories (Ravelry IDs ):

• Jen (FurrPurls)
• Kristin (KristinK)
• Casey (RubyCakes)
• Sockateer Hot Flash (HotFlash)
• Lisa (ConvolutedString)
• Ariel (Stariel)
• Claire (ClaireKnits) who almost drowned
• Sockateer Cockeyed (Cockeyed), the amazing sock monkey designer
• Sheila of the amazing monkey calls
• Lou (HappyStasher) donate at KnittersForKnockers.com by May 10 to enter the raffle

Finally, the entire experience is summed up in the amazing camp yodel by Celia (CeliaMcC).

Contest
BMFA released a new colorway just in time for camp. Win a skein of Knitters Without Borders in Socks That Rock lightweight by donating to Doctors Without Boarders/MÃdecins Sans FrontiÃres (MSF). Donate here and let us know how much you gave so we can share how generous Y KNIT listeners are. Email us at yknitguys [AT] gmail [D0T] com. One lucky winner will be selected at random!

If you'd like to buy one for yourself, they're available on BMFA's website and $3 from each skein goes to the invaluable work of MSF. Also, the Funky Sock Monkey pattern and kits are available for purchase.

Sock Camp cannot be contained by the mere 33 minutes of a single podcast. There were many, many, many more knitters who were interviewed, drunken late-night after-parties, and antics galore. We're sorry we couldn't fit everyone into this episode. If you want more, you'll just have to come join us next year!

Y Knit? It's Campy!

We use snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Holiday for Strings" Walter Schumann from The Voices of Walter Schumann (RCA, 1958)
• "Sabre Dance" Les Baxter and his Orchestra from Les Baxter's Wild Guitars (Capitol, 1959)
• "Satan Takes a Holiday" Jack Malmsten from Organ Spectacular (Liberty, 1963)
• "Saturday Night on Saturn" Les Baxter and his Orchestra from Space Escapade (1957, Capitol)
• "Sleep Walk" Henri Rene and his Orchestra from The Swingin' 59 (Imperial, 1959)
• "The Monkey" Yo Majesty from Yo EP (Out There Recordings, 2006)
• "Colors" Ice-T from Colors - Original Soundtrack (Warner Brothers, 1988)

Here are some of the goodies mentioned during this episode:

• Lucy's DVDS
• Lucy's Patterns and Kits
• Lucy's Book, Cool Socks, Warm Feet
• Lucy's Videos on YouTube
• Shelridge Farms yarns, patterns and kits
• Fleece Artist
• Paradoxical Mittens
• Think Outside the Sox contest
• Ram Club, A Sock Club for Men

Y Knit? It's An Aesthetic.

We use snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Socks" performed by Rebecca Parks from the album "Night Ship" (Messiah Refugees Music/CD Baby)
• "Sailor's Hornpipe" performed by The Windjammers from the album "Shanties & Songs Of The Sea" (Really Free Music/INgrooves)
• "O Canada" from the album "National Anthems 1" (Sonoton / BFM DIGITAL)
• "I Love Lucy Theme" performed by Desi Arnaz Orchestra, Wilbur Hatch conductor, from the DVD "I Love Lucy: The Complete Series" (Paramount)
• "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" performed by William Shatner from the album "The Transformed Man" (Decca)
• "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Variations" performed by Anthony Bonet exclusively for Y Knit.

Stay cool!

if you can't see this, I tried to embed this video but lib syn keeps eating the code. ]]> general Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:54:00 GMT http://yknit.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=327194# hizKNITS & WonderMike No yknitguys@gmail.com (hizKNITS & WonderMike) http://yknit.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=325043# Lace in Your Face (33:44)

We chat lace with guys from all over the country:

• Our favorite vet, Mel of Cabezalana blog was visiting from Maine (DrMel94 on Ravelry);
• Doug, from Southern California and Troy from Belliningham, WA met on Ravelry, then met in person (and with us) in SF; and
• Gene, from Eugene, OR and Lew from Sacramento, CA were "man-"ning the Lacy Knitters Guild booth at Stitches.

• QueerJoe
• Herbert Niebling (also a Yahoo group)
• Spirograph
• Yarn-a-go-go's Wedding Stole
• A Gathering of Lace, by Meg Swansen (available from Schoolhouse Press)
• Clapotis by Kate Gilbert
• Mel's completed Shetland-inspired shawl
• Sivia Harding
• Folk Shawls, by Cheryl Oberle
• Things Soo Likes blog
• Lavish Lace from Cherry Tree Hill
• Let's Knit2gether
• Muir by Rosemary Hill
• Victor's lace (from Knitter's Uncensored podcast)
• Last Minute Knitted Gifts airy scarf
• Eugen Beugler patterns at Fiber Trends
• Modern Lace Knitting by Marianne Kinzel
• Mary Walker Phillips
• Brooklyn Tweed's Hemlock Ring blanket (original pattern)
• Hanami stole (modeled below)

Thank you to everyone who took time to ponder lace with us: Mel, Troy and Doug (thanks for the gifts!), and Gene and Lew. As Michael said, I don't think this is the last time you'll hear lace discussed on Y KNIT.

And, as always, thanks for listening! Leave your thoughts on men and lace in the comments below or in the Ravelry group.

Y Knit? It's poetic!

This show features snippets of these songs:

• "Love is Here to Stay" performed by Bill Evans from the Solo Sessions Volume 2 on Milestone Records (1963)
• "Leather and Lace" performed by the Jolenes from the album Get It to Go on Good Fork Records / IODA (2006)
• "Chantilly Lace" performed by the Big Bopper from Hellooooo Baby: Best of the Big Bopper on Rhino Records (1958)
• "Lace for Boyz" performed by hizKNITS and WonderMike. Engineered by Sex14s (2008). Inspired by the genius of Public Enemyâs âBring the Noizeâ? from It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back on DefJam Records (1988).

Join us as we sit down with Mama Rav and the Bobfather, Jess and Casey from Ravelry. They discuss the evolution of our favorite online fiber enthusiast community from an organizationer's dream to a programmer's reality.

The bead store Stephen mentioned is Beadissimo, 1051 Valencia Street, in San Francisco. Just across the street from the yummy Ritual Coffee Roasters. Mmmmmm.

In case you're wondering, Casey's answer to "Y Knit?" is a quote from Wesley Wills.

Dress like Jess and Casey contest
Michael picked up some fun RavSwag just for our listeners: a signed "Daily Fiber" tee, a signed tote, and lapel pins. To enter, leave a comment below or on the Ravelry "Y Knit" forum about how you contribute to the Ravelry community. Check out the prizes!

DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS APRIL 11.

Y Knit? It's genetic.

We use snippets of the following songs in this episode:

• "Goodnight, Children, Everywhere" performed by Vera Lynn from the album "The White Cliffs of Dover" (1940)
• "People" performed by Barbra Streisand from the Sony album, "Funny Girl" (1968)
• "People" performed by Ella Fitzgerald from the Pablo album, "In Budapest" (1999)

We hit STITCHES West, and we hit it hard!

Michael took a spin of the floor during the Market Preview on Thursday, and runs into some guy knitters working for local shops:

• Rodney from Knitter's Studio in Menlo Park
• Kevin and Kevin from Purlescence Yarns (check out their Knit Knights 5-8pm on the second Saturday each month) in Sunnyvale, CA
• Kurt from ImagiKnit in San Francisco (he's also the designer of Beer Gloves in Son of Stitch 'N Bitch)

Then, we sat down with Rick Mondragon, editor of Knitter's Magazine, to discuss STITCHES events, how he started knitting and crocheting, and advice for aspiring designers. XRX, Inc. just published Guy Knits (Best of Knitter's Magazine Series).

Finally, we recap some highlights of our weekend. Favorite booths:

• Article Pract
• A Verb for Keeping Warm
• Tactile Fiber Arts
• Blue Moon Fiber Arts
• Purlescence Yarns

Favorite celebrity siting: Stash and Burn podcasting goddesses, Jenny and Nicole (photographic proof!)

Son of Stitch 'N Bitch contest winners The winners of the signed copies of Debbie Stoller's new book are Mel and Arlette. As a serendipitous aside, Arlette just designed a killer two color brioche hat called the "Double Dutch". You can see pix and purchase the pattern from Bella Knitting.

Next show: Ravelry! The BobFather and MamaRav (aka Jess and Casey) discuss all things Ravelry. We'll also announce the winner of episode 2's Art vs. Craft contest (they're both winners!).

As always, big thanks to Anthony for editing and musical magic. And thanks to you for listening, reading this, commenting and being a part of Y Knit.

Y Knit? It's genetic!

The song "Yes, I Can" comes from the album If I Ruled the World by Sammy Davis, Jr. (Reprise Records, 1965)

The song "Men" is by Martin Mull from his album I'm Everyone I've Ever Loved originally issued on ABC Records 1977.

Michael sits down with Sabrina Gschwandtner, artist and founder of KnitKnit a publication that explores the intersection of traditional craft and contemporary art. In addition to the seven issues since 2002, her book KNITKNIT: Profiles and Projects from Knittingâs New Wave was published in September 2007.

And weâve got a contest. Win a copy of KNITKNIT #7, the most recent issue from March 2007. According to Sabrina, this could be the last issue (for now). Submit a comment on your feelings of art vs. craft. Is what you do art or craft?

DEADLINE FOR ENTERING IS MARCH 28TH. THANKS FOR PLAYING!!!

As always, a MASSIVE thank you to everyone who downloads and listens to Y KNIT.

Y Knit? It's aesthetic!

There are three ways to find us:

• Go here: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=274125575
• Do a search for "Y Knit" (note the space between Y and Knit), "WonderMike," "hizKNITS," or "men knitting" or "guys knitting" or "male knitting"
• Use our handy RSS feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/yknit

Introduction:
Greetings Fellow Knitters and Fiber Enthusiasts. Stephen (hizknits) and I (WonderMike) have been talking about this podcast ever since we got re-acquainted at a Cat Bordhi book signing at Purlescence Yarns last summer. We had a bit of difficulty synching up our crazy social butterfly schedules (yeah, right!) but we've made the tough decisions about priorities and personal growth. Naturally, we live and dream in yarn and needles, ergo we believe everyone should. Let us tell you all about it.

Story of Yknit Genesis:
The story of two boys who were re-introduced through the wonder of knitting and the magic of the interwebs.

Interview with Debbie Stoller:
Debbie Stoller has written a new book, Son of Stitch 'N Bitch, filled with patterns for guys. We were fortunate enough to get an interview with Debbie before her book signing at Moe's in Berkeley, California.

You can read more about Debbie and her books at her website (which doesn't mention Son of S&B just yet). Or check out her day job at BUST magazine.

Contest:
We've got 2 signed copies of Son of Stitch 'N Bitch by Debbie Stoller especially dedicated to Yknit listeners. Send us the name and source of your favorite male pattern of all time and why it works for you. Weâll select a winner at random from our mailbag.

Feedback:
Have some ideas for future shows? Weâd love to hear what you think. Thanks so much for listening and keep on knitting.

Heart-felt Thanks To:

• Debbie Stoller. What a delightful and thoughtful interviewee. An inspiration to all knitters!
• Our producer and composer, Anthony Bonet. He made us sound fabulous and created a slamminâ podcast theme for us. He's our hero (and my partner!).
• The Yknit Cheerleaders: KnitSonya, KimChiCrafts, KnitYaYa, SpeedyNeedleFreeman and PunkRawkPurl. We love you ladies.

Yknit? Itâs genetic.

Bonus link: Here's the Cycling Aran by designer/spinner/dyer/inspiration Adrian/Hello Yarn (did Stephen mispronounce your last name?), as worn by her hunky husband Mr. Hello Yarn.