KNIT YOUR STRESS AWAY | Knitting for beginners, Knitting to relieve stress, Stress Relief Strategies for moms, morning routine, self care, time management, self care mindset

#82 // Why your phone is draining you and how knitting can help

Ever pick up your phone just to check one thing… and suddenly 20 minutes have disappeared? You’re not alone. Scrolling is designed to keep us hooked—but instead of feeling relaxed, we end up more drained, distracted, and overstimulated.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about what all that screen time is actually doing to your brain, why it leaves you feeling exhausted instead of rested, and how knitting can be the antidote you didn’t even know you needed. If you’ve been wanting to cut down on mindless scrolling but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you!
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why scrolling is so addictive (and why it drains your energy)
• How knitting helps you focus, relax, and feel more present
• A simple challenge to replace screen time with knitting in a way that actually sticks
 
📢 Get Ready for the Phone Down, Needles Up Challenge!
Starting April 21st, I’m hosting a fun, low-pressure challenge to help you put down your phone and pick up your needles. Stay tuned for details!
💡 What’s the hardest part about putting your phone down? Come chat with me in the Facebook group or send me a message on Instagram—I’d love to hear from you!
 
Until next time, happy knitting!

#81 // The 3 myths that are holding you back from learning to knit

Hey friend, have you ever tried to learn how to knit but felt like it wasn’t for you? Maybe you’ve convinced yourself that knitting is too hard, takes too much time, or that you’re just not a “crafty” person. But here’s the truth—knitting is way easier and more approachable than you think!
In today’s episode, I’m busting three common myths that might be standing in your way. If you’ve been hesitating to pick up your needles, I want to help you see that knitting is totally doable—no matter how busy you are or how uncrafty you feel!
Let’s bust some knitting myths together!
 
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
• Why knitting is actually simple (hint: you only need two stitches to start!)
• How to fit knitting into a busy schedule—even if you only have 5 minutes a day
• Why you don’t need to be a “crafty” person to enjoy knitting
 
✨ Ready to get started? Download the free “3 Things You Need to Start Knitting” cheatsheet at:
➡ www.theknittingmamas.com/start
This quick guide has everything you need—including a handy knitting glossary to make patterns easier to understand!
Until next time, happy knitting!

#80 // Spring into Knitting: 4 free patterns for beginners that you can make this spring

Spring is about to be here, and there’s no better time to start a fresh new knitting project! If you’re looking for something fun, simple, and free, you’re in the right place. In today’s episode, I’m sharing four beginner-friendly knitting patterns that won’t cost you a dime—so you can jump in and start creating right away.
These projects are easy, stylish, and perfect for spring, whether you’re making something to wear, carry, or cozy up in. Grab your yarn, and let’s get started!
 
4 Free Beginner-Friendly Spring Knitting Projects
 
🧶 The Open Trails Slipover – A light and airy sweater vest, perfect for layering. Get the free pattern
 
👜 The Folio Tote – A simple and stylish knit tote bag, great for beginners. Grab the free pattern (If you decide to purchase the PDF you can get 15% off with code KNITTINGMAMAS15)
👕 The Streamline Tee – A lightweight knit T-shirt, easy to make and perfect for warmer weather. Check out the free pattern (If you decide to purchase the PDF you can get 15% off with code KNITTINGMAMAS15)
 
🧥 The Ridgeway Cardigan – A cozy, top-down cardigan that’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. Get the free pattern
 
Resources & Links Mentioned:
 
📖 Grab my free Knitting Cheatsheet (to help you get started with confidence!) → Download here
 
Let’s Connect!
 
📲 Follow me on Instagram → @theknittingmamas_
🎙️ Subscribe to the Podcast → www.theknittingmamas.com/podcast
👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Join my free Facebook community 
 
🎧 Loved this episode? Screenshot and share it on Instagram—tag me @theknittingmamas_ so I can cheer you on in your knitting journey!
 
✨ Until next time, happy knitting! ✨

#79 // Things I wish I knew when I started knitting again (after 20 years)

Have you ever picked up your knitting needles, only to feel completely overwhelmed? I get it—when I restarted knitting after 20 years, I made so many mistakes and struggled with things that could have been so much easier if I had known a few key things.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing everything I wish I had known when I picked up knitting again—so you don’t have to learn the hard way! Whether you’re a total beginner or coming back to knitting after a long break, this episode is packed with insights to help you knit with confidence.
🎉 Exciting news! Enrollment is officially OPEN for my Knitting Made Simple workshop happening on March 12 and 14! If you want to learn knitting the easy way, with step-by-step guidance and hands-on support, this is your chance.
Spots are limited, so grab yours now! Sign up here → www.theknittingmamas.com/workshop
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
✔️ Why perfection isn’t the goal—and what to focus on instead
✔️ The best beginner-friendly yarn and needles (so you don’t struggle unnecessarily!)
✔️ How to decode knitting lingo so abbreviations don’t hold you back
✔️ Why mistakes are totally normal (and how to fix them!)
✔️ How learning with a community makes knitting so much easier
Resources & Links Mentioned:
🧶 Beginner-Friendly Supplies can be found in the FREE knitting cheatsheet (also includes a glossary):
🎉 Want to Learn to Knit with Step-by-Step Help?
Join my Knitting Made Simple workshop on March 12 or 14! This live workshop will walk you through everything you need to know, with hands-on guidance and a recording you can keep. Spots are limited, so sign up now!
👉 Register here: https://www.theknittingmamas.com/workshop
Let’s Connect!
📲 Follow me on Instagram → @theknittingmamas_
🎙️ Subscribe to the Podcast → www.theknittingmamas.com/podcast
👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Join my free Facebook community → www.theknittingmamas.com/group 
🎧 Loved this episode? Screenshot and share it on Instagram—tag me @theknittingmamas_ so I can cheer you on in your knitting journey!
✨ Until next time, happy knitting! ✨

#78 // BONUS: Want to Learn to Knit? Don’t Miss This Live Beginner Workshop!

Thinking about learning to knit but not sure where to start? This special bonus episode is for you! I’m giving you all the details about my upcoming beginner-friendly workshop, Knitting Made Simple, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.
 
In this short episode, you’ll learn:
What the Knitting Made Simple workshop is and what you’ll learn
Who it’s designed for
When the two live sessions are happening
Why this is the easiest way to start knitting with confidencE
 
Join the workshop:
💡 Knitting Made Simple is a live, step-by-step beginner knitting workshop happening on:
• March 12 at 7 PM EST
• March 14 at 12 PM EST
Can’t make it live? No worries—you’ll get access to the recording!
 
For just $47, you’ll walk away knowing how to knit and ready to start your first project with confidence (which is included in the workshop).
 
Sign up now before spots fill up!
www.theknittingmamas.com/workshop
 
Let’s get knitting—I can’t wait to teach you!

#77 // Why knitting is easier than you think and how to get started now

Feeling overwhelmed about learning to knit? You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down why knitting is actually way easier than you might think. From only needing two basic stitches to tackling knitting lingo without stress, I’ll show you how simple it really is to get started.
And exciting news—enrollment is officially OPEN for my Knitting Made Simple workshop happening on March 12 and 14! This live, step-by-step class is designed specifically for beginners, so if you’ve been wanting to learn to knit with confidence, now’s your chance!
👉 Save your seat here: www.theknittingmamas.com/workshop
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
✔️ The two basic stitches you need to start knitting today
✔️ The only supplies you really need (hint: it’s less than you think!)
✔️ How to decode knitting lingo so abbreviations don’t hold you back
✔️ Why mistakes aren’t the end of the world
✔️ How knitting can help you relax, de-stress, and find joy in creating
✔️ Why learning to knit with live guidance and support makes all the difference
Resources & Links Mentioned:
📖 Grab my free Knitting Cheatsheet (to help you navigate knitting terms and abbreviations with ease!) → www.theknittingmamas.com/start 
🧶 Beginner-Friendly Supplies:
• US8 Circular Knitting Needles 
• Hue and Me Yarn 
💡 Want to Learn to Knit with Step-by-Step Help?
Join my Knitting Made Simple workshop on March 12 or 14! This live workshop will walk you through everything you need to know, with hands-on guidance and a recording you can keep. Spots are limited, so sign up now!
👉 Register here: www.theknittingmamas.com/workshop
Let’s Connect!
📲 Follow me on Instagram for more beginner knitting tips → @theknittingmamas_
🎙️ Subscribe to the Podcast so you never miss an episode! → www.theknittingmamas.com/podcast
👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Join my free Facebook community for knitting support → www.theknittingmamas.com/group
🎧 Loved this episode? Screenshot and share it on Instagram—tag me @theknittingmamas_ so I can cheer you on in your knitting journey!
✨ Until next time, happy knitting! ✨

#76 // Simple Knitting Projects for First-Time Knitters

If you’ve been wanting to start knitting but aren’t sure where to begin, this episode is for you! I’m sharing five beginner-friendly knitting projects that will help you practice basic stitches, build your confidence, and actually make something you can use or gift.
And if you’re brand new and feeling overwhelmed, don’t forget—my Beginner’s Guide, Become a Knitter in 5 Easy Steps, is currently available for only $17, and you’ll get access to all upcoming updates before the price goes up to $37! It walks you through exactly what you need to get started, step by step. Grab your copy here:
👉 Get the guide now: www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
Also, a quick heads-up—our next Knitting Made Simple workshops for beginners will be happening on March 12 and March 14! We’re offering two different time slots to make it easier for more people to attend. More details coming soon, but mark your calendars—registration opens at the end of February!
Beginner-Friendly Knitting Projects Mentioned in This Episode
🧶 Lana Headband – This cozy headband from Two of Wands is a perfect first project. It’s simple, stylish, and a great way to practice your basic knit stitch (which creates a squishy garter stitch fabric).
👉 Get the pattern here - get 15% off with code KNITTINGMAMAS15
🧽 Dishcloth – A practical and beginner-friendly project! Dishcloths let you practice your stitches without worrying about mistakes, and you’ll have something useful at the end.
👉 Grab the pattern here: Etsy link
☕ Coaster & Trivet Set – These patterns are also recommended inside my free Knitting Cheatsheet! If you haven’t grabbed that yet, it’s a must-have for beginners.
👉 Get the pattern here: Etsy link
👉 Download the free Knitting Cheatsheet here
📖 Knitted Bookmark – A super quick and fun project! It’s perfect if you want something small to start with. Makes an amazing and cute gift too.
👉 Find the pattern here: Etsy link
🌱 Plant Cozy – If you love houseplants, this cozy is a great way to add a handmade touch to your home decor while practicing your stitches.
👉 Get the pattern here: Etsy link
Resources & Links Mentioned:
📖 Grab my Beginner’s Guide (Become a Knitter in 5 Easy Steps) – only $17 for a limited time, price increases to $39 soon! → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
📖 Download the Free Knitting Cheatsheet (must-have for beginners!) → www.theknittingmamas.com/start 
🧶 Upcoming Live Workshop for Beginners!
Join Knitting Made Simple on March 12 or 14—registration opens at the end of February!
Let’s Connect!
📲 Follow me on Instagram 
 
 

#75 // 5 common mistakes to avoid as a beginner knitter (and maybe even as an advanced beginner)

Knitting is supposed to be relaxing—but if you’re unknowingly making mistakes that set you up for frustration, it’s easy to think, maybe this just isn’t for me. The truth? You’re not the problem! A few simple tweaks can make all the difference.
In this episode, I’m breaking down five of the most common mistakes beginner knitters make—so you can skip the struggle and start knitting with confidence. Plus, I’ll share two free resources to make getting started even easier!
 
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ Why dark yarn is NOT your friend as a beginner
✔️ The best needle and yarn size to start with
✔️ How to pick a beginner-friendly first project
✔️ The #1 habit that will make your knitting easier
✔️ Why skipping a gauge swatch can lead to disaster
 
Ready to Start Knitting Without the Guesswork? Grab These Resources!
✨ [3 Things You Need to Start Knitting] – A simple cheatsheet with the exact tools you need (nothing extra!) plus a knitting glossary to keep you from feeling lost.
✨ [Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps] – A step-by-step guide with video tutorials to walk you through the basics (including fixing mistakes and making a gauge swatch!).
 
Let’s Connect!
📸 Instagram: @theknittingmamas_
🎉 Join the Facebook community: Beginner Knitters Community
 
If you found this episode helpful, share it on Instagram and tag me @theknittingmamas_—I love seeing what you’re working on!
 
Happy knitting! 🎉

#74 // Knitting Basics: Must-Have Supplies (And What You Can Skip)

 
Feeling overwhelmed by all the knitting supplies out there? Wondering what you actually need to start knitting—and what’s just extra fluff? In today’s episode, I’m breaking it all down so you can confidently grab your supplies without overcomplicating things.
 
We’ll cover:
✔️ The three absolute must-haves to start knitting today
✔️ The nice-to-have extras (but not necessary right away)
✔️ The totally unnecessary things you can skip for now
✔️ How to keep things simple and stress-free when starting your first project
 
By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what to buy and what to leave on the shelf—so you can cast on with confidence!
 
✨ Need a simple checklist? Grab my free “3 Things You Need to Start Knitting” cheatsheet! It includes the exact tools you need plus a handy glossary so you’re never confused. → www.theknittingmamas.com/start 
 
✨ Want to go even deeper? My “Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps”guide includes video tutorials that show you exactly how to get started with confidence. → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
 
Resources & Links:
📌 Download the free cheatsheet: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
📌 Go deeper with video tutorials: Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
📌 Follow me on Instagram for more tips! → @theknittingmamas_
 
Let’s Connect!
If you loved this episode, take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @theknittingmamas_—I’d love to see what you’re working on! And if you found this helpful, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review. Your support helps other moms find this podcast and start their knitting journey too!
 
Happy knitting, friend! 🧶💛

#73 // Mental health benefits of knitting and how it helps reduce stress and anxiety

In this episode of Knit Your Stress Away, we explore the incredible mental benefits of knitting and how it can help busy moms reduce stress and anxiety. From providing mindful focus to boosting your mood and creating a calming routine, knitting is more than just a creative outlet - it’s a tool for self-care and mental well-being. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone looking to prioritize peace in your life, this episode will inspire you to pick up your needles.
 
What You’ll Learn Today:
How the repetitive motions of knitting create mindful focus, quieting your mind and reducing stress
Why knitting releases feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, lifting your mood and easing anxiety
How incorporating knitting into your daily routine creates a grounding, calming ritual you can rely on.
 
Resources and Links Mentioned:
Want to start knitting? Download the free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting
Curious about keeping a knitting journal? Check out Episode #69 for tips on how journaling can elevate your knitting journey.
Join our community of knitting enthusiasts on Facebook to connect, share projects, and find support along your knitting journey. Visit thenittingmamas.com/group to join the conversation. Don't miss out on making knitting your new favorite way to unwind and create!