A Yarn Story

As we wrap up the year, Carmen and Susan settle in for a cosy, chatty final episode of the A Yarn Story Podcast. This one’s all about what we’re wearing, what we’re knitting, and the yarns we’ve been reaching for again and again. We chat through our recent makes, favourite textures, layering knits for real life, and the projects that have been living on (or off!) our needles. If you love relaxed k...

In this episode of the A Yarn Story Podcast, Carmen is joined by Helen, the newest member of the A Yarn Story team , for a relaxed, yarn-filled conversation about knitting, making, and life with wool. From what they’re wearing and what’s currently on the needles, to colourwork favourites, vintage-inspired knits and the joy (and chaos) of knitting plans, this episode is packed with real-life making...

Carmen and Susan are back from Rhinebeck, but before diving into yarn hauls and sweaters, they’re spilling their thoughts on the new TV sensation A Game of Wool . Spoiler: it’s not quite the cosy knitting drama they hoped for. In this episode, they share honest reactions to the show that’s got the fibre world talking - from questionable costumes to script choices that missed the mark - before shif...

This episode of A Yarn Story is full of travel, projects, and community. Susan and Carmen share knitting adventures from Canada to Seattle’s Flock fiber festival, plus all the projects they finished and cast on: the Ooey Gooey Cardigan by Andrea Mowry, the True Veil Vest and Zephyr Tee by Samantha Guerin, and Rhinebeck prep with the Salmon Sweater and Nordic Bloom Cardigan by Caitlin Hunter. We ch...

Welcome back to A Yarn Story ! In this catch-up episode, Carmen and Kayleigh are back with wine in hand and lots to share — from a surprise yarn rebrand reveal, to Kayleigh’s ceilidh-filled wedding, to the launch of their next knit-along featuring Caitlin Hunter designs. They share behind-the-scenes insight on running the shop, favorite summer knits, and what’s inspiring them for autumn. If you’re...

In this episode of A Yarn Story Podcast host Carmen sits down with Amanda Barcenas, the shepherd and founder behind Prado de Lana Sheep Farm in the Berkshires. Together, they explore the full journey of ethical yarn production, from raising heritage sheep breeds to shearing, skirting, and spinning sustainable, breed-specific wool. You’ll hear: How Amanda went from passionate knitter to full-time s...

In this special fireside conversation recorded live at our Bath Luxury Knitting Retreat , Carmen sits down with legendary British knitwear designer Erika Knight. With a glass of wine in hand and surrounded by fellow makers, they chat candidly about Erika’s creative journey, the intersection of fashion and handcraft, and the deep, soul-nourishing experience of working with yarn. Episode Highlights...

Join Carmen and Beverley and go behind-the-scenes of Unravel, one of the UK’s most beloved yarn festivals. Fresh from the event, they share their festival highlights, yarn hauls and hilarious mishaps (including one-armed sweater shopping and emergency bra assistance!). Tune in to hear: ✔️ Insider Access – What it’s really like to vend at a major fibre festival ✔️ Colour & Yarn Trends – What’s...

In this special episode, we’re unveiling The Signature Collection —an exclusive collaboration between A Yarn Story and acclaimed British designer Erika Knight . This beautifully curated collection blends timeless knitwear design with modern color theory, creating versatile patterns for every knitter. Join Carmen & Kayleigh as they take you behind the scenes of this exciting launch, sharing the...

In this episode of A Yarn Story Podcast , Carmen chats with Lisa, co-owner of This Is Knit , a beloved yarn shop nestled in Dublin’s Powerscourt Centre. Discover how Lisa turned her love for knitting into an 18-year journey of community building, crafting inspiration, and entrepreneurial success. Lisa shares her experiences teaching knitting techniques, collaborating with her sister to create stun...

In this special episode of A Yarn Story , Carmen sits down with Lisa, co-owner of Dublin’s beloved yarn shop, This is Knit . From her earliest days of knitting as a schoolgirl in Ireland to co-founding a thriving family-run business, Lisa shares her passion for natural fibres, community building and the magic of making. Together, they delve into Lisa’s journey, from backpacking in New Zealand (and...

Get ready for a delightful blend of knitting inspiration, yarn know-how, and unexpected trivia! In this episode of A Yarn Story , Carmen and Kayleigh dive into their latest projects, from sweaters to cowls and share their favourite yarn picks including Aran, DK and Worsted weights. You’ll laugh along as they discuss quirky cat antics, reveal the history behind Rhode Island’s "coffee milk,&quo...

In this episode of A Yarn Story Podcast, Carmen continues her conversation with Nu, founder of Hide & Hammer, exploring the evolution of her small business from a one-person operation to a team of four. Whether you’re looking for knitting bag inspiration or are curious about the challenges of running a small business in the crafting world, this episode is packed with insights, humour and tips...

Welcome to this delightful episode of the A Yarn Story podcast! Join Carmen and her dear friend Nu, the creative mind behind Hide and Hammer, for a cozy chat in the heart of the Cotswolds. This episode is perfect for knitters, crocheters and crafters who love celebrating the art of handmade. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just rediscovering your passion, there’s something here for everyo...

In this episode of A Yarn Story, hosts Carmen and Susan share highlights from their trip to the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival, a celebrated event for knitters and fiber artists. The episode begins with Susan's highlights including a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and the World Trade Center Memorial, immersing themselves in the autumnal hues that inspire their knitting color palettes. The...

In this episode of A Yarn Story, we continue our deep dive into the world of handcrafted stationery and letterpress printing with our special guest, Athena of Meticulous Ink . Learn the secrets behind artisan printmaking, how to design for luxury stationery brands, and the importance of sustainable materials in the world of fine paper products. Chapters 0:00 - Introduction to Meticulous Ink 2:57 -...

In this episode of A Yarn Story Podcast, Carmen interviews her friend Athena, the owner of Meticulous Ink, a fine stationery and letterpress print shop. Chapters 0:00:00 - Introduction & Meet Athena 0:01:53 - The Art of Making Things 0:04:44 - Knitting Origins & Project Dilemmas 0:09:55 - Crafting Materials and Choices 0:13:50 - The Joy of Starting New Projects 0:17:19 - Favourite Knitting...

Welcome to Episode 1 of Season 4! In this episode, hosts Carmen and Susan kick off the new season with a fresh format, announcing exciting new co-hosts and take a deep dive into their latest knitting adventures. They share highlights from their visit to the Flock Yarn Show where they met fellow knitters, discovered new yarns and sold out of fan-favorite Walcot Yarns colours. The duo also takes lis...

This special episode comes to you from Redmond, Oregon where I - Carmen, owner of A Yarn Story - host my mother, Gisela, for a special in-person conversation. We discuss our shared passion for knitting and crafting, diving into Mom's history with sewing and knitting that began in her childhood in Germany. Mom recounts her journey from teaching sewing in Colorado to managing a store and eventu...

Welcome to the final episode of Season 3. Honestly, where does the time go?! In this season finale, Carmen and Kayleigh share their FOs, what they're both currently knitting and Carmen has an exciting new project on the needles. We finish by answering your questions in the Q&A segment. Thank you so much for tuning in this Season. We're taking a break for a few weeks while planning fo...

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 7 of A Yarn Story Podcast (time flies!). This week, Carmen and Kayleigh delve into their latest knitting projects, share some personal stories and review a new wine. They begin by catching up on life events, including recent bouts of illness and how it affected their knitting time. Carmen talks about her current project, the Olive Top, and details about the silk yarn s...

Carmen is joined by Susan this week for the latest instalment of A Yarn Story as they dive into the bustling life of the shop during our annual sale. Hear our top tips for knitting in hot weather, the secrets behind running a successful yarn shop and our latest summer knitting projects. Highlights First day of the sale : Busy day anecdotes and a well-deserved glass of wine Summer knitting : Carmen...

In this episode, hosts Carmen and Beverley delve into their knitting projects and personal anecdotes. Carmen showcases the CoCo vest by Bana Kavanagh, while Beverley, the newest team member, dons the Bella Blocking by Anne Ventzel (in Isager Tweed and Fluff ). See the whole AYS Team wearing this sweater . As we pour a Pinot Blanc Chardonay courtesey of the wonderful Wolf Wine , Beverley shares her...

Welcome to A Yarn Story! This week, Carmen and Kayleigh discuss their knitting adventures and various updates. They start by addressing a technical mishap from the last episode where half of the video didn't record (hence no YouTube last time!). We kick things of with new wine (of course!) Convivial, a Gamay Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley. Carmen share stories from Knit City in Toronto...

Kayleigh takes charge of this week's podcast as Carmen is away in Toronto at Knit City and is joined by Susan.  They kick things off by introducing a gorgeous Sicilian wine from the show sponsor, Wolf Wine, before diving into the knitting talk!  Kayleigh and Susan explore different yarns and patterns, focusing on the Fonty Super Tweed and make suggestions for various projects like the Esther...