"What's the point of doing anything if it's easy?
It's so much more valuable when a challenge has to be overcome."

– Scott Hamilton​

​

Hello there fellow knitter!

This is The Yarnist. The daily newsletter that makes you love knitting the same way Bill Nye loves bow ties.

​

Disclaimer: This newsletter may contain sponsored ads and affiliate links.
When you buy using them, you support our work here at The Yarnist, as we get a small commission.

​

Knitspiration

🕹️ What if knitting was like a video game?

In 1986 the Legend of Zelda was released on the Nintendo Entertainment System.

It was the first video game to allow you to save your progress, which was important because there was also a huge map to explore.

Early on in the game you come across a dungeon where you encounter your first "boss" or big bad guy.

You also quickly find out that you are not equipped to win this confrontation and are killed.

When you start the game again, you now know to avoid that dungeon until you have what you need to win that battle.

Recently I came across a term that's used by the video gamer world, and I thought you might find it helpful.

Skill Issue

In video games your character often dies...

A lot...

Usually that's because you're learning the game; the rules of the world, the patterns of the program, and the skills needed to level up.

So the fact that you lose isn't a reason to give up.

You just have a skill issue.

More practice is necessary to make progress.

More training is needed to gain experience points.

More exploring is required to find the secret sword and defeat the dungeon.

If you're struggling with learning to knit brioche, or master cables, or make socks two-at-time with magic loop, it's not your fault.

You just have a skill issue.

Keep knitting and eventually you'll level up.

And if you want an overview of the history of knitting in video games check out this article at Boing Boing.

​

Announcements

LIVE Training: Cowl Design Workshop

Saturday, September 7th @ 12PM Eastern

Do you want LEVEL UP your knitting by learning to knit without a pattern?

Join me for this 90-Minute workshop where I'll show you a simple framework for turning ANY swatch, using ANY yarn, into your own custom cowl pattern.

This class will teach you the basic concepts to start knitting all kinds of projects with using a traditional pattern.

AND right now we're offering a special Early Bird discount if you register before this Sunday.

Sound good?

Yes! Sign Me Up!

​

Fiber Finds

Daily Stitch Game Controller Afghan Square Ok this isn't a "stitch" pattern as much as a motif. But it will make a great washcloth or afghan square! ​Learn this stitch​

Product Recommendation Arch Ravels Board Game It may not be a video game, but this game lets you shop for yarn without spending any real money! Great family game for up to 4 players! ​Get it on Amazon​

Today's Yarn Deal Lion Brand is offering up to 30% OFF it's new Mandala Gradient yarn. Get gorgeous slow color changes at an affordable price! ​Use Code LBYARN20 to save 30%​

Pattern Pick 8 Bit Doodle Hat by Jamie Lomax Famous for her doodle chart decks from Pacific Knit Co. Jamie designed this video game inspired hat for her husband. It features characters from the famous Pac-Man arcade game. ​Get the pattern here​

Work in Progress Wednesday What projects do you currently have on the needles? ​Share a photo in the Yarnist Society​

​

Knits & Giggles

​

Thanks for reading!

​

Before you go...below you'll find a few ways we can work together, and other bits & bobs:

​

Look at you reading all the way to the end!

Here's a bonus video with this incredible arial footage of sheep being herded. 🤯

​

Made with 💙🖤🤍 in Tallinn, Estonia

Narva Mnt 15, Tallinn, 10120