KNIT YOUR STRESS AWAY | Knitting for beginners, Knitting for stress relief, Phone boundaries, Doomscrolling solutions, Self-care for moms, Mindful hobbies, Calm nervous system

#96 // Summer Throwback: The Ultimate Mindset Shift: Make Time for Yourself Without the Guilt

July Summer Throwback Series
The Ultimate mindset shift: Make time for yourself without the guilt
Reminder: You’re not broken if you never finish a project—you’re overwhelmed.
Key mindset shift to make space for calm knitting, even for 15 minutes.
Freebie: Make Time to Stitch: 3‑Day Reset
Next step: Check out my Headband Workshop ($37) for a peaceful, finished project.
Learn more at www.theknittingmamas.com
 

#95 // From Cast-on to confidence: A chat with Knitatude’s Chantal Miyagishima

Hey friend—this week’s episode is such a treat! I’m sitting down with the brilliant and bold Chantal Miyagishima from Knitatude, and we’re talking all about her journey from beginner knitter to full-time knitwear designer, author, and creative business owner.
 
✨ If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a knitting biz…
✨ Wondered what goes into designing beginner-friendly patterns that actually fit…
✨ Or just need a dose of encouragement to carve out time for creativity—you’ll love this one.
 
We also chat about:
🧶 Her upcoming book Sweater Success (and who it’s perfect for!)
🧶 How to knit more consistently—even when you’re short on time
🧶 A few go-to project ideas when you just want a cozy win
🧶 Why making your own clothes can be a powerful act of self-love
 
Come find me on Instagram @theknittingmamas_ and let me know your favorite takeaway!
 
🔗 Links + Resources:
📚 Pre-order ‘Sweater Success: From Cast-On to Closet’ → Amazon Link
🧶 Shop Chantal’s Sweater Scarves → Sweater Scarf Patterns
🧶 Check out her Easy Eyelet Yoke Sweater → Sweater Pattern
 
🌟 Connect with Chantal:
Instagram: @knitatude
TikTok: @knitatude
Facebook: Knitatude on Facebook
Website: www.knitatude.ca
 
And if you’re ready to start your own cozy journey—or get back into the groove—don’t forget to grab your free resources and beginner-friendly workshops at www.theknittingmamas.com. 

#94 // Peaceful summer projects to build confidence and calm (even if you are just starting out)

Feeling overwhelmed with all the things you could make this summer—but not sure where to start?
In today’s episode of Knit Your Stress Away, I’m sharing 5 simple, satisfying knitting projects that are perfect for summer stitching… even if you’re brand new or just easing back into your knitting rhythm.
These beginner-friendly picks are calm, confidence-building, and totally portable—so you can knit on the patio, at pickup, or just 15 minutes at a time after a long day.
Inside this episode:
🧶 Why starting simple leads to more finished projects
🧶 The 5 peaceful patterns I’m loving for summer
🧶 My favorite ways to sneak in screen-free calm
🧶 Where to grab your free cheatsheet or join my cozy headband workshop
 
Projects Mentioned:
Jazz Bandana – Hobbii
Anya Summer Top – Hobbii
Confidence Crop – Knitatude (currently 25% off until 06/20/25)
Deco Mug Rug – Free on Ravelry
Sunset Breeze Cape – Cozy Nooks Designs
 
✨ Helpful Resources:
→ Grab the free “3 Things You Need to Start Knitting” cheatsheet
→ Join the Headband Workshop – a cozy, confidence-boosting project with step-by-step video support
 
📲 DM me on Instagram @theknittingmamas and let me know which project you’re casting on first—I’d love to cheer you on.

#93 // Stitch Markers 101 + one surprising trick you’ll want to steal

If you’ve ever lost your place mid-row, miscounted a repeat, or thought, “Wait—did I already increase here?”… today’s episode is going to be a game-changer.
In this Knit & Tell mini episode, I’m sharing the tiniest (but mightiest!) tool that makes knitting smoother, calmer, and way more fun: stitch markers.
We’ll chat about why they’re not just “nice to have,” the ones I swear by from Twice Sheared Sheep, and one creative little way I use them that might surprise you.
 
💡 Inside this episode:
🧶 Why stitch markers = less mental load while you knit
🧶 How to use them for pattern repeats, shaping, and peace of mind
🧶 My go-to stitch markers that never snag (plus the ones that make me smile every time I pick them up)
🧶 One outside-the-box trick for using markers to stay organized in your knitting sessions
 
🛍️ Featured:
- Cat Clips from Twice Sheared Sheep – functional and ridiculously cute
- 3 things you need to start knitting - Cheatsheet (free)
 
📲 Want to see how I use mine?
Come hang out on Instagram @theknittingmamas—I’ll be showing off my favorite WIPs (and stitch markers!) all week.
 
 

#92 // Struggling to finish your knitting project? Here’s what might be going wrong

Have you started a knitting project… and then never finished it?
Friend, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into 3 super common beginner mistakes that can stall your progress—and how to gently shift out of them.
Whether you’re brand new to knitting or picking it back up after a long break, this pep talk is here to help you build momentum (and actually finish your next cozy project!).
✨ In This Episode:
Why choosing the right first pattern matters more than you think
The myth of “I have to learn everything before I start”
A mindset shift that makes knitting feel like self-care, not a chore
Why 15 minutes a day can be a total game-changer
 
💡 Resources Mentioned:
🎁 Freebie: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting
🧶 Beginner Headband Workshop: Grab it here for $37
🕯 Free 3-Day Reset: Make Time to Stitch
🧵 Stay Connected:
Tag me on Instagram @theknittingmamas and share your favorite takeaway!
And if this episode helped you feel seen? Pass it on to a friend who could use a little knitting joy 💛

#91 // Feeling anxious or drained? Here’s how Knitting helps you reset

Feeling like you want to knit but just don’t have the time? You’re not alone—and you’re not lazy. In this episode, we dive into the real reason making time for knitting feels so hard (especially for busy, overstimulated women), and I share 3 simple, stress-free shifts you can try today.
If you’re craving a way to reconnect with yourself in small, doable ways, this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn:
• Why “not having time” is really about nervous system space
• 3 easy shifts to create time without guilt
• A free tool to help you build a cozy, calm knitting rhythm that sticks
Mentioned in this episode:
→ Free 3-Day Reset: Make Time to Stitch
Start building your calm knitting rhythm today
Grab yours here. 
Follow me on Instagram
@theknittingmamas_
If you loved this episode…
Leave a quick review or share it with a friend who needs a little more calm (and yarn!) in their day.

#90 // Why you don’t make time to knit and how to shift it in 15 minutes a day

Feeling like you want to knit but just don’t have the time? You’re not alone. In this episode, Nadine dives into the real reason making time for knitting feels so hard (especially for busy, overstimulated women), and shares 3 simple, stress-free shifts you can try today.
If you’re craving a way to reconnect with yourself in small, doable ways, this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn:
Why “not having time” is really about nervous system space
3 easy shifts to create time without guilt
A free tool to help you build a cozy, calm knitting rhythm that sticks
Mentioned in this episode:
→ Free 3-Day Reset: Make Time to Stitch
Start building your calm knitting rhythm today
Grab it at www.theknittingmamas.com
Follow Nadine on Instagram @theknittingmamas_
If you loved this episode…
Leave a quick review or share it with a friend who needs a little more calm (and yarn!) in their day.

#89 // When knitting feels slow - How to stay motivated and actually enjoy the journey

Feeling like your knitting project is dragging on? You’re not alone. In this episode of Knit Your Stress Away, we’re talking about what to do when progress feels painfully slow—and how to stay excited about your knitting even when it’s not moving fast.
You’ll learn mindset shifts, motivation tips, and gentle reminders to help you reconnect with your “why” and make the process feel peaceful again.
What You’ll Learn:
Why slow progress is still progress
How to reframe the frustration of “not getting anywhere”
5 ways to reignite your knitting motivation
A cozy reminder that your worth has nothing to do with how fast you finish
Links + Resources:
[FREE Guide] 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting: theknittingmamas.com
Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps: theknittingmamas.com
Join our free community: theknittingmamas.com
Follow me on Instagram: @theknittingmamas_
Love this episode?
Leave a rating and review so more knitters can discover the joy of slowing down with their yarn.

#88 // The one step you might be skipping (that can make or break your project)

Links mentioned:
Free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Beginner-friendly guide: Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
 
This one’s for all the knitters (especially beginners) who’ve ever thought, “Do I really need to swatch?”
Short answer: Yes.
In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the what, why, and how of gauge swatching—and how this one step can save you a lot of headaches down the line.
Inside this episode:
What gauge actually means and how it affects your project
A simple way to measure and adjust your gauge
How to swatch without perfectionism
Why skipping the swatch used to ruin my early projects
 

#87 // Ditch the distractions – How to create more focused time for knitting

Links mentioned:
Free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Join the free Facebook community → www.theknittingmamas.com/group
Today’s Episode: Ditch the Distractions – How to Create More Focused Time for Knitting
Ever feel like you know you *want* to knit, but life (and your phone) keep getting in the way?
This episode is all about how to reduce distractions and make room for more calm, focused knitting time—even if your days feel nonstop.
Inside this episode:
How to create a space that supports your knitting habit
Why making knitting your “default” activity is a game-changer
Tiny mindset shifts that help you protect your creative time
What works for me when I feel pulled in 10 directions
COMING SOON:
Phone Boundaries Mini Course
A cozy, mini course to help you reclaim your peace (screen-free)—one stitch (and one phone boundary) at a time.

#86 // Knitting and your brain: How it boosts dopamine and reduces stress

Links mentioned:
Free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Paid guide: Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
Join the free Facebook community → www.theknittingmamas.com/community
 
What if the secret to feeling calmer, more focused, and less anxious wasn’t another app… but your knitting needles?
In today’s episode, we’re talking about dopamine—and how knitting can give your brain the feel-good reward it craves without the crash.
Inside this episode:
Why knitting is a healthy way to trigger dopamine (and how it compares to social media)
What happens in your brain when you knit
A simple way to use knitting as part of your morning or evening routine
My personal shift from nighttime scrolling to knitting—and why it changed everything
 

#85 // Beginner’s Guide to yarn labels: How to pick the right yarn and what to look for

Links mentioned:
Free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Join the free Facebook community → www.theknittingmamas.com/community
If you’ve ever picked up a ball of yarn and felt overwhelmed by the label—this one’s for you. I’m breaking down the key parts of a yarn label in simple, beginner-friendly terms and sharing my #1 yarn recommendation for new knitters.
 
Inside this episode:
What to look for on a yarn label (without overthinking it)
Why Category 5 bulky yarn is a beginner’s best friend
How to match your needles to your yarn
What happened when I didn’t follow any of this advice on my first project
The easiest way to feel confident in the yarn aisle
 

#84 // Knitting not scrolling - A simple way to reduce stress in just minutes a day

Tired of ending your day on your phone… and feeling worse than before?
This episode is your gentle nudge to try something better.
We’re exploring how knitting can become a powerful tool for mindfulness—and how to actually make time for it, even if your days feel nonstop.
 
Inside this episode:
Why knitting calms the nervous system
How it helps you trade mindless scrolling for meaningful rest
My favorite ways to fit in 5-minute knitting moments
A simple breathing exercise to pair with your stitches
And… the first official invite to join my 5-day Phone Down, Needles Up Challenge!
 
Join the Challenge (starts April 21!):
www.theknittingmamas.com/challenge
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Download my free guide: 3 Things You Need to Start Knitting → www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Grab the beginner-friendly guide: Become a Knitter in 5 Simple Steps → www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
Join the free Facebook community → www.theknittingmamas.com/group 
 

#83 // The app every knitter needs - with Knit & Note Founder Anne Emilie Fosse

Grab your beginners guide to knitting: www.theknittingmamas.com/guide
Download the “3 Things You Need to Start Knitting” cheatsheet www.theknittingmamas.com/start
Join the free Facebook community: www.theknittingmamas.com/group
 
Ever wished you had one single place to keep all your knitting patterns, projects, and yarn stash? In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Anne Emilie Fosse, the founder of the Knit & Note app — a brilliant tool for knitters who want to stay organized, inspired, and totally stress-free.
We dive into how the app was created, why it’s become a favorite in the knitting community, and what exciting updates are coming soon. Whether you’re brand new to knitting or have been stitching for years, this app is going to change the way you manage your projects (and maybe even make your knitting time feel even more relaxing!).
Here’s what we cover in this episode:
How Anne Emilie came up with the idea for Knit & Note on maternity leave
What makes the app so beginner-friendly
The challenges (and wins!) of building a knitting-focused tech product
Sneak peek at upcoming features (hello, yarn database!)
Why knitting is still her go-to form of stress relief
Want to try the app?
Download Knit & Note at:  https://www.knitandnote.com
Follow them on Instagram:  @knitandnote
 
Something exciting is coming…
Our Phone Down, Needles Up Challenge is back from April 21–25!
It’s a free 5-day experience to help you swap out screen time for soul-soothing knitting time. Whether you’re brand new or just need a reset, this is the challenge for you. Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing how to sign up soon!

#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! ✨