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Shibaguyz, Shannon and Jason Mullett-Bowlsby

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Shibaguyz, Shannon and Jason Mullett-Bowlsby,  were the guests on the Yarn Thing podcast with Marly Bird today. Logo featuring the silhouette of a dog's head in black against a white circular background.‘Shiba' as in they have THREE Shiba Inu, so with Marly's dogs we could have come canine contributions here too!

The name ‘Shibaguyz Designz' actually came from their dogs, when they visit neighborhood markets with their Two men posing closely together, both with short hair, wearing dark shirts, looking intently at the camera.dogs, three Shiba Inus, that attract a lot of attention and became known locally as the ‘guys with the Shiba Inus'. Their background includes ballroom dance (and some tap) on Shannon's part, for 20 years danced professionally, competition and also taught. About five years ago, he walked away from that to get started designing, meeting with Drew Emborsky and Leisure Arts at their first TNNA. [Read more…]

Craft Yarn Council’s Mary Colucci

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Craft Yarn Council's Mary Colucci joined us for a special MONDAY edition of the Yarn Thing podcast with Marly Bird, because sometimes we need to Make Someone's Monday! Did this make yours?

Stitch Away Stress (1)

Mary Colucci is Executive Director of the Craft Yarn Council which is in organization trade organization that represents the larger publishers and consultants in the yarn industry. She came to this from her career in publishing and through TNNA. Primarily CYC's goal is to keep the craft alive and to teach future generations.

One of the first program was to certify teachers of knitting and crocheters. Currently they work with Michael's stores to have certified teachers leading classes at a local level.MaryColucci

I Love Yarn Day is a special event organized by the Craft Yarn Council, happening in the fall when all the new yarns are often introduced and includes knitters, crocheters, weavers, spinners… everyone who loves fiber. It's hoped that participants gather with others to celebrate their love of yarn! Since the beginnings four years ago they heard so many about the health benefits that they have begun…

#StitchAwayStress campaign, collecting stories and sharing the evidence that proves we are Healthier and Happier because we knit or crochet. We know that we feel creative when we are working with yarn, but we also find our confidence boosted, stress is relieved and we find we can concentrate better. Those with chronic illness/pain find those symptoms are eased and slows loss of memory. During the month of April, you can enter to win prizes and Twinkie Chan has created a cute little Lemon Stress Ball — there is patterns for that in knit and crochet with a video about it! Other programs include a Teens Learn to Knit or Crochet and Warm-Up America.

Marly asked how does Mary stitch away stress? She revealed that end the day she finds working a few rows of her projects helps her de-stress, but taking it to work and while waiting for appointments also helps.

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How to Crochet: The Yo Yo Scarf

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Get the Free Yo Yo Scarf Pattern Here, and get tips and tricks for how to crochet the Yo Yo Scarf with the video from Marly Bird Here.

One of the most fun parts of doing the videos for Red Heart is being able to look at their MANY FREE PATTERNS and choosing which ones I like and think you would like to know how to make. The hard part is only choosing a few instead of the whole library 🙂 But hey, that's job security, right?

Well, I don't know about all of you but I am always looking for a fun little shawlette/scarf to wear during the year. No matter what time of year it is, I need a little something around my neck to beat the chill. Couple that need with the desire to make more things with Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable Yarn and I think I found the perfect pattern!

It's called the Yo-Yo Scarf by Alessandra Hayden

Now, you too can make this fun and fast scarf. With the free crochet pattern and the free video tutorial taught by me, Marly Bird you will have nothing but success.

*Disclaimer: this post includes affiliate links**

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Marly Bird + Red Heart

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Marly Bird and Red Heart yarns partner up to bring you high quality YouTube videos for crochet and knitting! That's right, America's most recommended yarn brand is working with your favorite designer, podcaster and teacher, and THAT became the theme of today's Yarn Thing podcast with Marly Bird!

So, I've been sitting on a super big secret for months and I can finally announce it. Better yet, I did a new video to help me 🙂

Spoiler Alert: Red Heart Yarns​ + Marly Bird​ = AMAZING Videos for crochet AND knitting!

I am really looking forward to being able to teach both crochet and knitting on my YouTube channel. This is a BIG day and I hope you all will share in my joy.

xoxoxo

Marly Bird

If you missed getting to hear today's show, it is still stored at the originally aired location: https://tobtr.com/7421077

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the big news Marly has to share?

Honestly… Marly has partnered with Red Heart yarns! They'll be creating high-quality YouTube videos for both crochet and knitting together. It's a huge deal and she's so excited to teach both crafts on her channel!

What kind of videos can we expect from this new partnership?

So here's the thing… Marly will be teaching both crochet AND knitting on her YouTube channel. She's really looking forward to sharing her passion for both crafts with everyone, thanks to this exciting collaboration with Red Heart!

Are there any specific techniques people are asking Marly to teach?

Yes! Many listeners have requested videos on things like fixing knitting and crochet mistakes, learning to weave in ends neatly, and how to tackle garment knitting like sweaters. There are also requests for specialized crochet techniques like hairpin lace and broomstick lace, as well as knitting topics like lace knitting and applying beads.

What if I'm new to knitting and Marly is primarily known for crochet?

Don't worry! A lot of people are excited about Marly teaching knitting, especially those who are more comfortable with crochet. There are specific requests for beginner knitting videos and tips for crocheters who want to learn to knit, helping ease that transition from one stick to two!

Can Marly help with specific fit issues in knitting?

Well, that's a great question… One listener specifically asked for tips on knitting sweaters that are flattering for a pear shape, including how to alter patterns to fit better. It sounds like Marly's videos will cover not just techniques but also practical advice for getting a great fit!

Underground Crafter Marie Segares

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Underground Crafter, Marie Segares joined Yarn Thing with Marly Bird on today's program. It was two greatUndergroundCrafter logo/designers having a meeting of the minds!

Marie learned from her grandmother to crochet and knit when Marie was 9 years old. Grandmother went to a needle arts trade school! Marie was really interested in crochet… In 2002, she received a book and learned to read patterns and became fired up, making things for family, meeting crafting people locally. She took the Craft Yarn Council's Craft Instructors program in 2007 without really any intention of teaching. [Read more…]

Red Heart Named Most Recommended Yarn Brand

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I've learned over the last 20 years crocheting that many of us began working with a basic hook or needles and a skein of Red Heart Yarn. Their commitment to provide wonderful yarn and pattern support to both the crochet and knitting community makes it no surprise that they were given the Women's Choice Award for America's Most Recommended Yarn Brand.

 Red Heart Named Most Recommended Yarn Brand

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Red Heart Yarn recognized with the Women’s Choice Award® as

America’s Most Recommended Yarn Brand

Charlotte, North Carolina – March 12, 2015 – As the leading advocate for female consumers, WomenCertified Inc. is delighted to honor the Red Heart Yarn brand with the 2015 Women’s Choice Award® seal.  This award designation is based on a national survey of thousands of women across America who were asked to select the brands they would most highly recommend to family and friends.

 “The Women’s Choice Award program works to raise awareness among consumers about which brands are most recommended by women and to honor those brands,” said Delia Passi, CEO and Founder. “By carrying the Women’s Choice Award seal, brands like Red Heart Yarn signify their commitment to empower women to make smart buying choices.”

According to a 2012 Fleishman Hillard Study, today’s U.S. female consumer values the opinion of others and over half of all women consider one of their roles to be that of  a broadcaster, responsible for helping others make smart choices. It is not surprising that major brands, like Red Heart Yarn, now focus on delivering a customer experience women will love. The Women’s Choice Award has set the standard for helping women make smarter choices by identifying the brands most recommended and trusted by women, along with those that deliver a recommendation-worthy customer experience.

Ms. Passi says it’s important to note that the award doesn’t just signify that Red Heart Yarn has women’s favor – it signifies that women are willing to recommend it to others. “When a woman is willing to recommend a brand or service to others, it means that business has earned her loyalty. Those are the businesses we wish to recognize for their efforts and commitment to the No. 1 consumer – women,” she says.

“Receiving the Women’s Choice Award is testimony to Red Heart’s commitment to delighting knitters and crocheters with great yarns and pattern inspirations, all crafted with love” said Alyson Bell, Vice President of Marketing.  “When consumers choose our products and recommend Red Heart over other brands, it is the highest accolade we could be given.”

“We are pleased to salute Red Heart Yarn for their focus on excellence, a commitment that is recognized by women consumers nationwide,” Passi says.

ABOUT RED HEART

Red Heart is proud to be America’s favorite yarn and one of the most trusted brands in yarn. For over 75 years, more people have chosen to make their heirlooms using Red Heart than any other yarn. Red Heart yarns stand for quality, largest color selection, fashion and above all else, crafted with love. Whatever your creativity calls for, you’ll find it in the Red Heart family. Explore our free patterns and vast yarn selection for every level of knitter or crocheter – they have a little bit of love woven into every strand.

www.redheart.com

ABOUT WOMEN’S CHOICE AWARD®

The Women’s Choice Award sets the standard for helping women make smarter purchasing choices. The company and its awards identify the brands, products and services that are most recommended and trusted by women. Additionally, they recognize those that deliver a recommendation-worthy customer experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Red Heart yarn really that popular?

Honestly… yes! Red Heart has been around for over 75 years, and they're America's favorite yarn for a reason. So many of us start our crafting journeys with their yarns, and it's wonderful to see them recognized like this.

Why did Red Heart get an award?

So here's the thing… Red Heart was named America's Most Recommended Yarn Brand by the Women's Choice Award! This award comes from a big survey where women across the country pick the brands they'd tell their friends and family about.

Does this mean Red Heart is a good yarn?

Yes! The Women's Choice Award isn't just about liking a brand… it's about being willing to recommend it. This means Red Heart has earned the loyalty of crafters, which is pretty amazing.

What makes Red Heart yarn special?

Well, the article mentions their commitment to great yarn and pattern support for both crochet and knitting folks. Plus, they've got a huge color selection and focus on quality… all crafted with love, of course!

How long has Red Heart been making yarn?

Isn't that wild? Red Heart has been around for over 75 years… imagine all the amazing projects made with their yarn over all that time!