Listen While You Stitch – Our Favorite Podcasts

One of my biggest dilemmas as a knitter is that I can’t read while I knit — it’s devastating! The obvious solution would be a good audiobook, but I’m still pretty dedicated to owning real books, pages and all.

Here’s where a new wave of media comes in — podcasts. Like many before me, I initially thought podcasts were seemingly endless droning on ultra-serious topics. I was so wrong.

I’d overheard a few podcasts from my coworker’s desk when she listened to shows like Radiolab or Fresh Air, but didn’t give it too much interest. It wasn’t until she — perhaps as it happened to you — emailed me a link to a new true-crime podcast: Serial. I played armchair detective along with the rest of the country last fall and listened intently; in my office, on my way to and from work, and, oftentimes, while I knit.

Best of all, podcasts are free! You can stream them online or download them to your phone or listening device to listen to later. With thousands of podcasts available, you’ll always have an episode of something to listen to while you craft. It’s a great alternative to watching TV while you work — no looking up at the screen required!

When we here at Lion Brand^® aren’t meeting about new patterns and yarns, some of us listen to music or podcasts while we work. I asked the team to share a few of their favorite podcasts, craft-related or not. Find our suggestions below!:

Crafting-related podcasts

The Yarniacs

At first listen, hosts Gayle and Sharlene might sound like people you know. With the natural banter of good friends, these ladies chat about all things yarncrafting. Their candor and openness about WIPs, and “stalking” out new projects is a refreshing look at how knitters and crocheters use sites like Ravelry to admire work and gain inspiration. Listen along as they seek out the perfect yarn for their next project!

Woolful – recommended by Sarah

Host Ashley Yousling is a knitter, but her podcast focuses on something all yarncrafters can relate to: Wool. Where it’s sourced from, how each spinner creates their yarns, and what they make with it are constant themes in her podcast. Woolful is regularly sponsored by local yarn shops around the country, making it a great resource for finding one-of-a-kind yarns near you!

ACTuallyKNITting

Host Michelle is a teacher by day, and a self-proclaimed “World Class Knitter” by afternoon and evening.

Podcasts on Various Topics

99% Invisible – recommended by Sarah and Zoe

A look at design, architecture, and the “99% invisible activity that shapes our world.”

Freakonomics Radio – recommended by Ilana

From the team that brought you the book of the same name, this podcast delves into the economics of our world, the ‘hidden sides’ of social groups, and much more.

You Must Remember This… – recommended by Lorena

An oral history of Hollywood from its inception, host Karina Longworth shares fact, scandals, and history in various series.

The Outlander Podcast

A look at both the book series by Diana Gabaldon as well as the Starz series of the same name, this podcast is perfect for those who’ve been inspired to knit and crochet Claire’s 18th century fashions.

The Moth – recommended by Ilana

The art of compelling storytelling comes to life in this podcast, where true stories are shared in live events.

Mystery Show – recommended by Lorena and Sarah

Starlee Kine sets out to solve mysteries surrounding a lunchbox, a belt buckle, and the height of a well-known actor in this funny and engaging podcast.

Do you listen to audiobooks or podcasts while you knit or crochet? Have a favorite podcast you like to stream? Let us know in the comments section!