Published by Anne Fjeld
Hi, and welcome to Anne’s Norwegian Knitting – Conversations Where Knitting Meets Culture, Heart, and History.
Listen on Apple PodcastsIs knitting a race? Anne and Steph don't think so. In this episode, they explore why quality matters more than quantity, how slowing down can make you a better knitter, and why creating garments you'll love to wear is worth the extra time. They also talk about practice, ripping back, overcoming perfectionism, and embracing knitting as a lifelong journey. Because in the end, it's not about how fast you finish – it's about creating something you'll be proud of. To get more from Anne’s Norwegian Knitting check this out: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome Back Update 00:28 Quality Over Quantity 01:14 Heirlooms Wear Your Knits 05:20 Speed Culture Rant 08:31 Fast Knitter Example 12:00 Tedious Sections Take Time 16:21 Time Out Projects 17:43 Continental For Health 19:19 Perfect Vs And Gauge 21:20 Practice With Small Projects 22:39 Fixing Puckering Floats 24:28 Ripping Back Lifelines 26:13 Repeating Course Levels 29:50 Progress Over Perfection 31:28 Step Numbered Patterns 36:05 Sister Pattern Struggles 38:34 Brave Pattern Modifications 40:35 Quality Over Quantity 41:47 Final Takeaways Signoff Link to transcript and shownotes
Norwegian Wool Month is almost here, and I need your help! This episode can also be watched on YouTube . In this Stranded Thought, I share the story behind Norwegian Wool Month – why it started, how it has grown over the years, and the tradition of designing a brand-new pattern each August using beautiful Norwegian wool. This year's pattern is a hat, and before I cast on the Lofoten Wool version, I need to choose the colors. That's where you come in! Leave your favorite color combination in the comments and help decide what this year's hat will look like. Happy knitting! 🧶
After a short summer break, Anne and Steph are back behind the microphones – and celebrating one full year of the podcast! In this episode, they look back on a wonderful in-person retreat in Norway with 18 knitters from North America and continental Europe before turning their attention to one of the highlights of the knitting year – Norwegian Wool Month. You'll hear the story behind how Wool Month began, why it has become such an important tradition, what's happening during this year's event, and why supporting Norwegian wool, mills, designers, and small makers matters so much. Anne also shares how this year's projects came together, what participants can look forward to, and why Wool Month is about much more than knitting patterns. Whether you're joining Norwegian Wool Month for the first time or returning for another year, this episode will give you a behind-the-scenes look at what makes August such a special month in our community Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Return 01:05 Football And Knitting 04:38 What Is Wool Month 05:47 Origin Story 12:54 Naming The Event 14:28 This Years Schedule 16:54 Speakers And Recordings 21:03 Why Selbu Matters 24:43 Adding Lofoten Wool 25:37 Crafting Association Finds 26:21 Supporting Small Makers 27:56 Lofoten Wool Journey 29:28 Selbu Mitts Origins 32:20 Cowl Pattern Showcase 34:59 Socks Year Challenge 36:23 This Year Hat Plan 38:38 Yarn Notes Gimra 40:23 Wool Month Panels 44:31 Free Signup Wrap Up Link to transcript and shownotes
In this episode, Anne and Steph step into the world of the Norwegian bunad – the national costume rooted in history, identity, and craftsmanship. They explore what a bunad really is, why it matters, and how it connects to family, region, and tradition. From rules and “bunad police” to modern interpretations and inclusion, this is a conversation about both preserving and evolving heritage. You’ll also hear personal stories, a bit of Norwegian history, and a closer look at the details – embroidery, colors, silver, and the incredible work behind each piece. A cultural deep dive with strong ties to the same traditions we carry in our knitting. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:40 Episode Setup with Steph 01:13 What Is a Bunad 01:59 Cost and Making One 03:33 Rules and Bunad Police 05:24 Regional Styles and Roots 06:22 Inclusion and Access Debates 07:47 Modern Fantasy Bunads 08:59 When Bunads Are Worn 10:30 Origins and 1905 Context 10:59 Norway History Crash Course 17:08 May 17 Traditions Today 18:43 Preserving Bunads by Region 20:07 Colors Motifs and Rosemaling 21:20 Norway Regions Explained 22:51 Steph Trondelag Bunad Tour 24:50 Shoes Socks and Silver Details 27:07 Hand Sewing and Embroidery 28:52 Anne Shows Family Bunad Photos 31:58 Bunad Silver Clasps and Brooches 33:10 Filigree Jewelry Roots 33:57 Family Bunad Photos 35:18 Embroidery Details Up Close 36:20 Rondastakk Origins 37:59 Hardanger Beading 39:48 Hair Rules and Bands 41:15 Mom’s Bunad Shawl 42:56 Marie On Bunad Story 44:57 Embroidery Process 46:29 Mike’s Men’s Vest 49:13 Bunad Socks Class 52:45 Looped Hat Tradition 53:43 Wedding Outfit Wow 55:42 Bunad Tradition Today 56:58 Closing and Farewell Link to transcript and shownotes
In this episode, Anne and Steph talk about choosing colors – why it can feel tricky, and how it becomes easier with a bit of understanding and practice. They explore different ways to find inspiration, from nature to everyday moments, and share real examples of what works, what doesn’t, and why. You’ll also hear why swatching matters more than you think, and how small adjustments can completely change a colorway. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your color choices, this episode is for you. We talk about our annual Color Workshop in today’s podcast. It is hosted this coming Tuesday (April 28th), to join, sign up here: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/2026-color-party-lp Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 01:21 Why Talk About Color 03:19 Color Anxiety and Learning 08:40 Nature as Inspiration 12:53 Swatching and Favorite Colors 15:34 Colorways for the Shawl 18:58 Tools for Fair Isle Color 21:57 When Color Tests Fail 24:20 Neutrals With a Pop 26:27 Color Pops in Rows 27:10 Brown Gray Colorway 29:10 Spring Greens Inspiration 30:55 Purple Lovers Challenge 31:42 Sitting Pad Color Scheme 35:28 Swatch Reveal and Contrast 40:41 Bed of Roses Palette 43:13 Swatching Before Big Knits 44:44 Workshop Dates and Signup 48:35 Final Thoughts and Farewell Link to transcript and shownotes
This is a very visual episode, so if you’re listening on a traditional podcast platform, you might want to come back and watch it on YouTube as well. Podcast Episode 53 on YouTube In this episode, Anne and Steph dive into the story of pockets – not the sewn-in kind we’re used to today, but the beautifully personal, historical pockets worn outside (or hidden beneath) clothing. What begins as a simple idea for a small knitting project unfolds into a rich conversation about Norwegian bunad traditions, textile history, identity, and creativity. Along the way, they explore how pockets were used, decorated, gifted, and even restricted – and how this small accessory carries far more meaning than we might expect. ✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode The surprising origin of “pockets” – and why they weren’t always sewn into garments How Norwegian bunad pockets evolved from practical everyday items to decorative heirlooms The role of pockets as personal, expressive objects – often customized and deeply meaningful A glimpse into pocket traditions around the world, from Norway to England, France, and beyond The story of fashion dolls and how trends were shared before modern media Why women were once discouraged – or even banned – from having pockets The artistry behind traditional Norwegian clasps and what their symbols and initials represent The emotional side of pockets – including the kinds of personal items they once held The design journey behind Anne’s modern knitted pocket pattern Ideas for customizing your own pocket with embroidery, beads, and personal touches Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:40 Meet Anne and Steph 01:34 Why Pockets Matter 02:50 Bunad Pocket Origins 04:03 Steph Textile Expertise 05:27 Designing the Modern Pocket 08:18 Personalizing with Embroidery 10:52 Bunad Standardization Story 12:12 Pocket Show and Tell 15:58 Pockets Around the World 17:52 Fashion Dolls and Trends 19:04 Fashion Dolls Pockets 20:17 Women Banned Pockets 21:14 Norwegian Clasps Art 21:51 Initials And Heirlooms 25:22 Pocket Keepsakes Hair 26:49 Designing Our Pocket 28:37 Pattern Challenge Ideas 30:37 Tutorials Assembly Help 34:23 Yarn Gauge Gift Plans 36:24 Wrap Up Link to transcript and shownotes
Before we start, this is a highly visual episode, so you might watch it on YouTube here: Podcast Episode 52 on YouTube In this episode, Anne and Steph dive into everything Eternity. From the original inspiration to color choices, design evolution, and how the project has grown into a full collection, this conversation explores the story behind one of Anne’s most beloved designs. You’ll hear how the Eternity Shawl began, why it’s designed in the round, how Norwegian landscapes influenced the colors, and how knitters around the world have made it their own. Whether you’re curious about the design process, love colorwork, or are thinking about knitting the Eternity Shawl yourself, this episode gives you the full story. Click here to sign up to the waitlist Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:40 Meet Steph and Today’s Topic 01:13 The Eternity Shawl Reveal 03:12 Why It Was Created 07:47 Designing the Motif 12:23 Colors and Mountain Inspiration 17:19 Heirloom Uses and Sizing 20:09 Bunad Silver Connections 23:41 Community Photos and Variations 26:29 Color Planning Process 29:49 Choosing Super Soft Yarn 31:22 Sustainability and Sourcing 32:01 Mountain Color Inspiration 33:15 Colorway Help and Swatches 36:12 Purple Colorway Breakthrough 42:24 Pansies and Spring Hardy Flowers 44:37 Most Knit Patterns and Popularity 45:18 Eternity Coordinating Accessories 49:49 How the KAL Drip Works 50:59 Eternity Sweater Preview 53:18 Why the Annual Format 54:05 Waitlist and Launch Dates 55:23 Final Sign Off Link to transcript and shownotes
Picking colours can feel intimidating – especially for a project like the Eternity Shawl with seven colours constantly interacting in different combinations. In this Stranded Thought, Anne shares why picking colours is less about talent and more about experience. She reflects on testing combinations, why colours behave differently in colourwork, and how even experienced knitters rely on swatching and experimenting to find what works. This episode is a gentle reminder that colour confidence is built over time – and that ripping back is simply part of the process. Sign up for the Eternity Shawl waitlist here: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/eternity-shawl-infoforation-LP And keep an eye out for the upcoming colour workshop later this month.
In this episode, Anne and Steph explore what Easter looks like in Norway – and it’s probably very different from what you’re used to. From week-long mountain trips and outdoor waffles to Easter chickens, mystery novels, and knitted decorations, Norwegian Easter traditions blend nature, culture, and cozy creativity. You’ll hear about: Why Easter in Norway starts early and often means a full week off The tradition of going to the mountains Bringing spring indoors with branches and decorations Knitted Easter eggs and chickens Why Norwegians eat so many eggs Outdoor skiing, campfires, and Easter backpacks Kvikk Lunsj and Solo – the classic Easter treats Norway’s obsession with Easter crime stories Mystery stories on milk cartons Easter mystery knit-alongs and kaftas This episode is a cozy cultural deep dive into one of Norway’s most unique seasonal traditions – where knitting, nature, and mystery all come together. Click here to watch it on YouTube: Podcast Episode 50 on YouTube Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:40 Back From Vacation 01:27 Norway Easter Week Off 06:02 Mountains and Spring Light 07:12 Bringing Branches Indoors 11:00 Hanging Eggs and Knits 13:15 Feathers and Shrovetide 18:25 Tulips as Spring Signs 19:48 Outdoor Waffles Tradition 24:17 Easter Bunny Arrives 24:57 Easter Chickens Not Bunnies 26:10 Ski Trips And Campfires 27:59 Kvikk Lunsj Trail Chocolate 30:24 Solo Soda Easter Staple 31:46 Easter Crime Craze 35:18 Train Robbery Origin Story 37:19 Milk Carton Mysteries 42:45 Mystery Knit Along Kafta 47:31 Easter Knits And Farewell Link to transcript and shownotes
In this relaxed episode, Anne and Steph record from two very different vacation spots – snowy Norwegian mountains and sunny Costa Rica. After the recent virtual retreat, both took a week away from work to recharge before returning to everyday life. Of course, knitting still came along for the trip. Anne and Steph chat about the projects they packed for travel knitting, including mittens, sweaters, and retreat samples. They also talk about yarn choices, gauge differences, and how even a small change in yarn thickness can make a surprising difference in how knitting feels in the hands. Along the way, the conversation drifts into Norwegian knitting words, funny translation moments between Norwegian and English, and a few reflections from the retreat. Toward the end of the episode, Anne shares a bit about the Perfect Fit workshop and why understanding simple fit tools can completely change how knitters approach sweater knitting. A cozy, unscripted knitting conversation – just yarn, projects, and a little knitting talk from two different corners of the world. Click here to watch it on YouTube: Podcast Episode 49 on YouTube Timestamps 00:00 Vacation Podcast Setup 01:01 No Work Week Reset 02:52 Travel Knitting Mittens 04:15 Yarn Talk Gauge Feel 05:34 Sonda Yarn Saami Stories 07:21 Norwegian Knitting Words 08:09 Sun Wall Easter Weather 10:11 Orange Hat Surprise 11:20 Same Hat Many Colors 13:16 Packing for Photo Content 15:43 Project Planning for Travel 16:01 Retreat Cardigan Progress 17:31 Gifts and Sweater WIPs 18:43 Knitting in the Heat 20:16 Perfect Fit Workshop Updates 22:59 Why Fit Tools Matter 26:33 Wrapping Up and Next Time 28:02 Yarn Colors and Final Goodbye Link to transcript and shownotes
In the past, most clothing was made to fit the person who would wear it. Today, we are used to buying standardized sizes designed for an “average” body. But knitters have something special – we create our own garments. In this short Stranded Thought episode, Anne reflects on why understanding garment fit is one of the most empowering skills a knitter can develop. With just a few foundational concepts and the right tools, you can move from hoping a sweater will fit to knitting with confidence that it will. Anne also shares a bit about the Perfect Fit workshop , where she teaches the simple tools that help knitters understand patterns, measurements, and adjustments so their garments truly fit the body they are made for. Sign up for the workshop here: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/perfect-fit-2026
A slightly unpolished podcast episode made from the mountains :D During the recent retreat, one of Anne’s knitters inside Anne’s Norwegian Knitting community said she would happily pay good money for a course on how to fix mistakes in knitting. It is a request Anne hears often. However, it is also a request she will most likely never meet. Why? Not every mistake is actually a mistake. And even when something does need fixing, the answer always depends on the context – the yarn, the placement, the project, and you. In this episode, Anne talks about confidence, letting go of perfection, and why she won’t create a course on fixing mistakes in your knitting.
In this video-recorded episode, Anne and Steph are joined by three Level 2 knitters who share how Norwegian Knitting Magic Level 2 changed their confidence, their understanding of gauge, and the way their sweaters fit. They talk about: – Learning to adjust patterns to your own body – Continental knitting and colorwork – The power of community during live teaching – Why some of them are already knitting their second (or third) Level 2 sweater If you have ever knit a garment that didn’t quite fit the way you hoped, this episode is for you. Learn more or sign up for Level 2 here: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/2023_norwegian_knitting_magic-sp-2 Click here to watch it on YouTube: Podcast Episode 46 on YouTube Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and Guests 01:59 Meet Roseanne 03:23 Meet Terri 04:54 Meet Tiffany 13:34 Starting With Level Two 16:22 Skills Learned and Tools 17:33 Yarn Help and Sioux Fibers 20:22 Terri’s Sweater Breakthrough 23:26 Meaningful Color Choices 25:00 Community Support Hub 27:22 Is Level Two Right 28:39 Design Options Overview 30:02 Gon Sweater Origin 33:47 No Pressure Finish 36:25 Signup and Workshop 39:58 Replays and Tutorials 42:01 Next Projects Plans 44:26 Final Join and Wrap Link to transcript and shownotes
This episode is best watched on video here: https://youtu.be/iBVKc_Q8YkQ In this week’s Stranded Thought, Anne takes you behind the stitches and into the full world of the Mitten Bonanza. What started with a new blue and white January mitten – designed with a little Valentine feeling in mind – opens into a deeper conversation: a mitten is not just a mitten. From January to December, Anne walks through all twelve designs and reveals the deliberate variation behind them. Check out our February Mitten Bonanza Campaign HERE
🎥 This episode is especially well suited for watching , as many sweaters, hats, and historical details are shown and discussed on screen. The link to the YouTube video for this episode is further down. Anne and Steph explore the deep connection between Norwegian knitting and the Winter Olympics – how sweaters, hats, and motifs became carriers of identity, history, and national pride. They move through decades of Olympic knitwear, symbolism, fashion shifts, and craft, while Anne shares personal memories from the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics and the stories behind some of Norway’s most iconic knitted designs. Click here to watch it on YouTube: Podcast Episode 44 on YouTube Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:40 Recording the Podcast on Video 02:57 Honoring the Mountains with Our Sweaters 04:21 Winter Olympics and Knitting History 07:04 Iconic Norwegian Knitwear in the Olympics 14:49 The Little Devil Hat and Its History 19:08 Evolution of Norwegian Olympic Sweaters 26:21 1990s Fashion: Bold Identity and Oversized Styles 27:22 Olympic Knits: A Journey Through Time 29:26 Personal Knitting Stories and Olympic Memories 31:31 Iconic Norwegian Sweaters and Their Evolution 34:13 Norwegian Craftsmanship at the Olympics 39:59 Modern Olympic Knits and Their Unique Designs 47:00 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections Link to transcript and shownotes
Measuring mittens sounds technical, but it’s really about something much more important: warmth. In this episode, Anne talks about how to measure for mittens, why ease matters, and how fit affects warmth far more than exact numbers. Inspired by a recent question inside the Level 1 self-study course, this episode explores mitten sizing as a practical, lived experience – not just a calculation. Anne shares: How to measure your hand for mittens Why tight mittens are often colder than roomy ones The importance of air pockets for warmth Why cuffs and thumbs matter more than length When it’s better to size up rather than down 🎁 Podcast listener bonus: Use the coupon code found below to get 20% off Mitten Bonanza . The code is valid until February 28, 2026 . 👉 https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/offers/FedoFeVG/checkout 👉 Coupon code: FEB2026 About the Mitten Bonanza Anne has created Mitten Bonanza – a self-study mitten collection designed to build confidence and understanding. It includes: 12 mitten patterns – one for each month Around 30 technique tutorials covering everything you need for mitten knitting Clear, well-written patterns that guide you through construction and fit It’s not about speed or shortcuts – it’s about understanding mittens so you can knit them with confidence.
In this episode, Anne and Steph explore the history and atmosphere behind the Nidaros Spires sweater, drawing inspiration from Nidaros Cathedral – Norway’s most important medieval cathedral. They talk about Trondheim’s role during the Viking Age, the story of Saint Olaf , and how the cathedral reflects Norway’s transition from Norse traditions to Christianity. Along the way, they touch on architecture, stained glass, sacred spaces, and how history and place can be translated into knitted design. A reflective episode about stone, light, and the stories we carry forward – in wool and beyond. Link to transcript and shownotes Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:40 Introduction to Today's Episode 01:02 Relaunching the Nidaros Sweater Pattern 03:20 The Historical Significance of Nidaros 04:20 The Viking Age and Christianity in Norway 05:12 The Nidaros Cathedral: Architecture and Stories 15:34 The Rose Window and Its Significance 20:07 The Organs and Altars of Nidaros Cathedral 25:39 Personal Reflections and Experiences 29:13 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
In this Stranded Thought, Anne reflects on the power of symbols – and why a simple knitted red hat has carried meaning across centuries. The episode moves from the red caps of ancient Rome to the bonnet rouge of the French Revolution , and then to Norway during the Second World War, where red knitted hats became a quiet but powerful symbol of resistance. Anne shares personal family history from the Norwegian resistance, including the events of April 9th, 1940, when German forces entered Norway via the Oslofjord, and how the delay of the warship Blücher made it possible for the Norwegian king and government to escape. The episode also explores how red hats were later officially banned by occupying forces – a reminder of how much meaning a handmade object can carry. This is a reflection on knitting, history, heritage, and why symbolic acts – even quiet ones – matter.
In this week’s Stranded Thought, Anne reflects on how knitting patterns used to look – and how our expectations of them have changed. Back in the day, even complex sweaters were knit from a single folded page with tiny text, small diagrams, and very few words. Today, patterns are longer, more detailed, and often expected to explain not just what to do, but why. In this Stranded Thought, Anne explores the difference between: – Patterns as instructions – Teaching as a separate craft – And why not everything needs to be understood right away to move forward She also shares a familiar moment from her teaching: when the explanation hasn’t quite landed yet – and why sometimes the best thing you can do is simply follow the next step and let understanding come later. A thoughtful reflection on trust, learning, and letting the knitting lead the way.
In this first Anne & Steph episode of 2026, they settle in for a reflective and honest – but also warm and smiling – conversation about transition: leaving one season behind and stepping into another, both in life and in knitting. They talk openly about fear, habits, and what the past year has carried with it, while gently turning their attention toward what lies ahead. Along the way, they reflect on the value of knitting journals and creative notes, and why writing things down matters more than we think – especially over time. The conversation also weaves through what’s happening in the knitting world right now, with updates on courses, upcoming patterns, and a warm reminder that there is no such thing as “not a real knitter”. It’s a calm, thoughtful, and quietly joyful conversation, with laughter woven through the reflections – the kind of episode that keeps you company as you knit, one stitch at a time. Link to transcript and shownotes Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations 01:08 Reflecting on 2025 and Welcoming 2026 02:09 A Personal Story: Fear of Snakes 07:37 New Year Resolutions and Goals 14:36 Knitting Journals and Creative Projects 18:15 The Eternity Sweater Project 19:19 The Challenge of the New Design 19:52 Importance of Keeping a Journal 21:39 New Beginnings in the Community 23:32 Upcoming Pattern Release: Anita Aspires 28:46 Encouragement for New Knitters 33:02 Podcast Plans for the New Year
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