Well-Loved Knitting Podcast (015) // not one but TWO ranunculus, needlepoint & crochet projects!
Things I Mentioned:
+@Needlepoint tutorial videos
+ Kits for Needlepoint: www.unwind.studio/collections...
+ The swatch project was inspired by @skaberglaede on Instagram.
+ I've been loving the@itisasarah podcast for crochet inspiration!
Where to find me:
+ Website: www.welllovedknits.com
+ Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/WellLovedKnits
+ Instagram: / well.lovedknits
This video is not sponsored.
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This video is about my passion for knitting, crafting, DIY, how to knit, making my handmade wardrobe, me-made closet, making my own clothes, knitting podcast, finished DIY, wool and the gang, we are knitters, knitting community, craft projects, handmade clothing, sustainable living, slow living, crafting, knit inspo, knitting inspiration, sweater weather, cottagecore, cozycore, wool sweater, cozy jumpers, soft pullovers, chunky knitted sweater, knitting patterns 2022, 2023.
I can understand all your anxiety over knitting and the time it takes. I used to be exactly the same. I am 73 now and all those worries went away around the age of 60. It’s just a joy to knit, however long it takes and confidence that it will fit ok has gone as I seem to have grasped things better. Maybe it was the 15 year gap when knitting went out of favour and returning to it just became a bigger joy than ever. It’s great that you are exploring more crafty things. They each have their special delights. Keep going Bethany. ❤
That's so true,
I think the gray cardigan over the knitted ranunculus is what's making that combo feel frumpy (knit over knit) but a fun graphic tee under the cardigan would be cute and modern. Same with putting a denim or leather jacket over the ranunculus. Both are great pieces and it's all about the styling
My daughter loved playing with a little basket full of swatches when she was a couple of months old. Now I’m collecting them all to make a blanket for my next babies :)
Hey that’s a good idea!
I think you use the felted bag scraps for the hands and feet for Arthur's toys you will make for Arthur
That’s a cute bag. I take my swatches and sew them up into a square, fill them with lavender, and store them on my shelves with my yarn.
I am totally with you RE: the Ranunculus. I only recently purchased it and made one after ignoring it for so long and it not particularly appealing to me. Everyone and their mother was making it, which put me off in the same way you were feeling - it felt too mainstream, and I only want to make things no one else has. As it turns out, IT'S A MAGIC PATTERN. I have no clue why or how, but it is. Even though it's not the style you reach for, it looks so great on you!
About the swatch usage - I have a small corkboard where I display all the swatches I made for current wips and for projects that I‘m having planned for the near future. This keeps me from casting on more when I already have 7 wips, and also gives me more creative energy when I have only a few wips, it’s really like magic. I also have some scribbles of designs I have in mind up there. For swatches of past projects, I do keep them in a little paper bag for a couple of reasons. One, if I want to use a certain yarn again, I don’t have to swatch again. Two, if I want to knit something for someone else, I can give them a couple of different swatches to find out what kind of fabrics, fibers and colours they like or don’t like. I‘d hate to knit something with wool for someone only to find out they’re allergic to it. And three, I also go through them when I‘m trying to figure out what kind of fiber I want to use for a certain pattern.
Crochet is so fun! I love making little toys in between my knitting projects. Making play food, loveys, dolls are so fun to make and a great way to get my creativity out if I get bored with basic knitting patterns.
I use larger swatches as coasters or under planters to protect furniture.
I agree with the knitting setup, Im a advanced crocheter and I’m a very beginner with knitting and I’m struggling with knitting… I want to make my own clothing but I feel like knitting is more complex and tedious than crocheting. I’m still learning knitting though. 😅 I’m doing my best right now I’m making a circular Ravenclaw scarf for my bestie and I’m doing really good. But you can tell I’m not good at it. 😂
I use my swatches as coasters!
I never saw myself as a Ranunculus person either... until seeing your version! I love that you made it in a neutral with the twisted rib details and short sleeves. I might have to cast on one soon too!
the ranunculus suits you so well
I always forget how happy these videos make me until there’s a new one!!
Loved seeing someone young trying needlepoint! Sadly, this amazing craft has lost favor in recent years. Keep going-it is very addictive!!!
Enjoy the process and keep having fun! No troubles there…..
That swatch bag is just too cute! I unravel all of my swatches so I can use the yarn on the actual project, but I reckon I could use that idea as a scrap-busting project. And the ranunculus turned out super cute!
I also am enjoying “It’s a Sarah” and a little choice! But I have to give The Crazy Sock Lady credit for that.
First Knit Together With Kim and Jonna has been talking nonstop about It Is A Sarah... Now you!! FINE, I'll give her podcast a listen, thanks for the recommendation!
I really like the ranunculus you are wearing and think it suits you. I love the brown colour one you are making also and are sure it will look equally good on you.
OMG! I forgot how much I miss Schleiper until I heard you
Your Ranunculus is so so beautiful 🧶😊
I also never jumped on the bandwagon, but your cream short sleeve sweater is making me second guess that decision!
That was a fun video. You could change the buttons on the cardigan that you find dull and maybe that will give it a whole new look. Your sweater is lovely
Totally agree with what you said about crochet vs knit! I find it so much easier to be creative with crochet and it challenges the perfectionist side of me! I am almost finished working on a daisy square bag, I highly recommend doing something with the flower granny squares- They are so much fun!!
My Kids use my swatches for their doll house. They are blankets and rugs and a few of the more pitiful ones are scarves (lol).
Hi Bethany, you can also knit i-cords for the drawstring bags!
The ranunculus is really cute on you! ❤
Your crochet blanket is beautiful! I think the rich warm colours make it look so cosy. New for this year is trying not to start new projects till I've finished with the ones that are around the house 😂 - but I've just started a baby jumper for a friend's first baby. That's got colourwork motifs on it that I don't do much of, and some embroidery to finish it, so I'm counting that as new.
I have been putting off casting on the ranunculus sweater too, but you have convinced me. The next thing to go on my needles lol.
toe up tip: sometimes the toe and heel can pull a bit more on the fabric because of the increases, instead of decreases. a good tip can be to (on the rows without increases) make a yarn over, to allow the increase to be pulled from more yarn, minimising (totally butched that word) the tugging that can happen. another good tip would be to switch out the type of heel/toe, to another one that might feel better. i personally really enjoy the fit of a broader toe. and i think you're right about the choice of german short row heel. i personally think it feels way better, when i do toe up. if you get even more into sock knitting, you should join sock madness next year! even just for cheerleeding. it's super fun, and everyone is so sweet over there. plus, you kind of get a growth spurt in terms of knitting experience :)
Love to see crochet pop up! I am also having a crochet moment right now with a ripple stitch blanket and a crochet wool rug. I never thought I’d work on non-wearable items but here I am ready to make bags, baskets, and blankets. 😊❤🧶
Oh wow, I haven't seen your podcast for a while and your hair is gorgeous and that skin of yours is blooming! hello and can't wait to watch. Your granny square colours are gorgeous and it DOES look adorable. I wish I could wear the ranunculus but I just look like a blob with a top on and I don't wear skirts or long pants these days. The ranunculus looks so lovely and every time I see one, I think - should I knit one and see what the hype is about?? I second-guess knitting one too. I'm thinking if I could make it into a cardigan with 8 stitches dead in the middle of the front, then I might try it.
I saw one knitter who framed some of her swatches🎉 your sweater looks great ❤
I told myself I wouldn't knit the Ranunculus, but seeing yours is making me want tooooo 😭 Also it's so nice to see you dabbling into other crafts, they both look so good! 🤗 I was working on a sweater testknit while watching 🥰
I'm loving all of your projects, they're so pretty! I'm working on 2 new things, I'm knitting a sideways construction jumper, which I've been enjoying, and I'm trying to learn to crochet, that's not going as well as I'd hoped... The sound was fine, I honestly didn't notice you were being extra quiet. Take care xx
I love the Ranunculus on you and on everyone else who has made one or two. But I just can't get myself to join the club and I think it's only because it's everywhere. Glad you are having fun with it. Love the crochet blanket, perfect for learning crochet and to use yarn and to bring colour into the equation. I switch between knitting and crochet all the time, it spices up the crafty mojo. Love the swatch bag.
The Ranunculus looks pretty on you. I'm with you about going against trends, though.
I was just thinking I must pull out my summer ranunculus.... It took me far too long to realise I was already wearing it 🤣🤣 I love wearing t-shirt style knits. Mine is a cotton linen viscose blend and I love it. In fact, I made one in white and one in pink 🙈 I've made four so far and I still have plans for more haha
I love your Ranunculus! I’ve looked at the pattern so many times because I love the lace of it, but I just don’t like a wide or low neckline on myself, so I think I’ll try it with a long tail cast on like you did.
I have been crocheting big granny square blankets with scraps it's a great way to use up scraps and have something useful and even for gifts, people love them!
I'm also a knitter working on a crochet granny square blanket! I'm loving the process so far and it's a great project to get rid of some scrap yarn. :)
Your Ranunculus looks perfect! Makes me want to knit one too! I'm crocheting a granny square tote bag and its so fun, glad you're having a great time with new crafts! Enjoy!
I just wanted to say how much I love the top you are wearing and how much I think it truly suits you, especially in that colour. I’d never heard of a Ranunculus before I watched your video, which I stumbled across whilst watching a different video this morning. My first thought was how lovely you looked, especially in what you were wearing. Well done!! (I love “It’s a Sarah” too ❤)
I love how your swatch bag came out. Super cute and unique!!
Crocheting bags is so fun. I've just completed the free belissema market bag with Romanian cord bands and I love it so much. Right now making a glasses case by ViVi Berry on KZhead.
I had never heard of a ranunculus pattern until now. And, of course, now it's on my never-ending to-do knitting list!! Thanks ha!! :) Your sweater is so pretty.
I have the same feeling with the cardigan. I made it in a light blue but it always makes me feel old when I wear it. I think for me it’s because of the crew neck but I’m not sure
Love hanging out with you. It's very inspiring to see what your working on. I too am dabbling in a new area. I'm crocheting my first summer top. So far so good. Can't wait to see how it turns out.
That swatch bag is a great idea. I have held onto mine and now I know what to make with them. 😊 I will definitely mention your channel. If I make one and talk about it. The short sleeve sweater your wearing looks really nice. Thanks😊
I too have finally given in on the ranunculus.....I just have the sleeves to go! I have loved knitting on it.....am so glad I gave it a try!! Yours looks lovely and summery! I decided to give a temperature blanket a go this year.....I crochet one row each day in a colour based on the weather.......I am really enjoying it 😊
Lion Brand has a sweater pattern with a large granny square in the front with the rest all being knit. I believe there are stripes just on the top of the other side of the sweater. It might be something you would enjoy?
All is new about the project I'm working on right now: lace! alpaca! shawl! First time I try lace, first time I knit a shawl, first time I use an alpaca yarn and... I'm loving every stitch 😍 It's the Millais by Nora Gaughan, the yarn is Quechua Baby Alpaca... oh my oh my such delight!!! 🤩
I think the ranunculus looks very sweet on you - sometimes it’s fun to push ourselves out of our normal zones. I have also not yet made one, have felt (similarly to you) that there was so much hype about it and didn’t want to „give in“ to that. Weird, isn’t it? Who knows, maybe one day I will also be inspired to use up leftover yarn. Loved to see your excitement about all your new crafts! Keep having fun!!!
Omg I just started a crochet blanket too! And I'm obsessed 😍 I would also love to try dying my own yarn this summer, I feel lots of creative energy lately. Great to see you, as always! ❤️
In regards to the fleegle heel but for a cuff down sock, what you're looking for is the strong heel!
I love all your projects! I think your ranunculus looks great! And I excited to see your second one. Also, We would have a blast crafting together! I’m working on a cross stitch project and I’ve slowly been working on the Ariana crochet cardigan over the last few months 😊
Likewise!! If only we weren’t so far away 💗
The ranunculus looks fantastic on you. Also quests the point of crafting if it doesn’t spark some enjoyment and enthusiasm? Love your new projects. I may need to check out needle point
I decided to also try crochet :) I am currently crocheting a flower lace shirt, a normal very simple knit sweater and a v-neck vest (also knitted). I love how uplifting your videos are
It could be kinda fun to use swatches as coasters! As long as they're big enough to fit a glass or cup and somewhat square
I don't get the type over the Ranunculus. I made one and hated how frumpy I felt in it. However, yours looks lovely on you. Yours fits better than most I've seen. I agree with you about the "chain" part of the yoke and omitted it from my project.
I also have just found it's.a.sarah and have been binge watching her too 😂 all that I have been working on the last while is some good mindless garter stitch. One is a little baby blanket and the other is gonna be a cowl. Mentally that's what I need right now 😊
I knit a ranunculus for the same exact reason! I had some random malabrigo wool/silk blend that I had gotten on clearance and had no idea what to do with. And it was the perfect amount of yarn and a great fit. But if you’re worried about your yarn maybe consider undoing the ribbing and doing a contrasting color? That way you can make the sleeves longer, use up any scraps, and play with color. Might not be your look or have yarn you’d want to do with but maybe something to think about. I have some random fingering weight skeins I bought at a yarn festival and they’re too pretty and expensive to turn into socks. But a ranunculus might be the perfect project! Thanks for reminding me! I’ve also been experimenting with crochet lately! I learned Tunisian crochet from TL Yarn Crafts here on KZhead and working on her Aruba tunic for her CAL and it is def faster but the yarn usage is insane. But it’s been a fun challenge and kind of nice to have in my lap while it’s getting hotter instead of heavy yarns and fully knitted sweaters. Great video as always and can’t wait for the next! ❤❤
Ha, I'm currently working on my third ranunculus. This one's in a 50/50 merino silk, lace weight. I'm happy with how it's coming out! Yours looks lovely
In the project gallery of Ranunculus in the Ravelry is this super cool two tone version (brown and pink if I remember right). You could do that and have longer sleeves! Try to find it out. The second color came after the yoke.
I have started so many crochet blankets.... I don't have the patience to finish them 😅 so I have some ideas for you! It can turn into a cushion, or bag. You can do the cushion with the granny square on the front and fabric or knitted on the back. I started a pokeball blanket made with lots of granny squares.... now I'm thinking of turning it into a box. I'm planning to use some wire to help it stand up and use a square for each side. Dunno if it's going to work though!
It is like... I have similar thoughs about ranunculus - it's beautiful, it's like "every knitter have to have it", but it's soooo not my style I don't know if I make one I'll be using it or just admiring it 🙃🙂
So happy it’s Sunday and you have a new episode out 😁 For your needlework I would cut a bit of yarn off each colour and tie them to the corresponding colour spot. It’s much easier to see which yarn to use if you can compare yarns…I hope that makes sense.
That’s a great tip!
I've done colour charts for myself by using a piece of cardboard & a hole punch. Tie on a scrap of the yarn or thread, write the number & name colour next to it & keep that with my work. Now "all" I need to do is finish the cross stitch I've started before I had my first son who'll be 28 later this year... 😂.
I too just joined the Ranunculus, had this yarn for 3 years and tried some patterns and didnt like it... so i figure ok... let try the Ranunculus..lol..
Your top looks great on you, and the satch bag is a memory bag xx i thibk your cardy looks better i think it could be the neck that needs making a bit smaller
It's not totally new but there is some learnings with regards to technique. I'm doing microcrochet
As someone whose crocheted for years and started knitting anminth ago, I agree that crochet is more flexible. It's a lot easier to improvise with crochet because you don't have live stitches. You can just add whatever shapes you want wherever you want to. That means you can do all the same short rows and shaping that you can do in knitting, butnyou can also just do a simply granny square. I also feel like its easier to take risks with crochet, because (1) you can easily frog just a few stitches or rows without worrying about dropping stitches and (2) it's way faster so you aren't investing as much time into something that doesn't work. Also with crochet all you need is a hook. You don't have to worry about different cable lengths or needle lengths etc. The downside of crochet is that there are a lot less crochet designers making modern pieces so it can be a slog to sift through a lot of the dated patterns to find the good ones (in my opinion of course. Some people love the old school crochet pieces, I just don't.). But Natalie from Detroit Knots highlighted a lot of great designers in her recent podcast episode. Oh and crochet takes way more yarn, which is expensive. And it's harder, but not impossible, to get crochet to drape compared to knitting. That's part of the reason I love tunisian crochet so much. Tldr: knitting and crochet both have their pros and cons and I think everyone should learn both (including tunisian!)
I’m making hair for amigurumi dolls, I’m making curly hair and it is interesting but fun
Protip: make sure you do small corners every few rows on the granny square otherwise it will get wonky as it gets bigger.
The ranunculus looks lovely on you. Can i ask if you used the recommended needle size? I have swatched a few times and although i get gauge i dont like the finished fabric?
What yarn do you use for cardigan? Your Ranunculus looks great on you.
If you don't mind me asking, what size ranunculus did you knit? I'm having a hard time trying to figure out which one to make. Thanks!
I am not sure about rananculous because of the oversized morigirl vibe that isn't me. How did you downsize it? Otherwise, I'm waiting for a yarn to speak to me. I think it suits you because of the color
Which Knitting for Olive yarn did you use for your Ranunculus?
I'm currently doing my first diamond painting, I enjoy it but will not make another one. There is too much plastic involved for my liking.
No new crafts for me. This 70 year old crafter has been down many crafty rabbit holes. I did recently have an epiphany recently. I live in coastal NC. We have 7 months of warm weather. So why am I making many wooly knits? I am doubling down on lighter plant based yarns and making summer tees.
I like making bunting out of swatches. Tincanknits has a free pattern for it called Swatchtastic where you make triangular swatches 🧶