About

knittingthestash (a.k.a. Melissa)

I’m a professor at a research university in the Midwest; I like long walks, reading science fiction, and knitting anything and everywhere. I aspire to be a great knitter and spinner; but most importantly when it comes to yarn, I’ve always said: “I can do that!” I hope this blog’s focus on DIY, How-to, and advice from the community of farmers, spinners, and knitters helps you feel the same way!

In my bi-weekly podcast (which I began in 2016), you can learn alongside me as we share firsts, explore new techniques, and encouraging each other along the way. This year, I have been working on the Better Sweater Series–videos about garment construction and fit intended yo accompany our year-long Re-Make-Along Project. Won’t you join me?

I am an active member of the Champaign-Urbana Spinners and Weavers Guild. In 2016-2017, I served as Vice-President; I followed-up as President in 2017-2018. In my VP role, I planned the guild’s programs; in both roles, I served on the Executive Committee, and tried to be a friendly face when new members come around.

I love farm visits and meeting new people (and sheep!): if you are a fiber artist, a hand spinner, a shepherdess, a small flock owner, a mill operator,  or a wool trader, I would love to feature your work on this site. Please get in touch using one of the methods listed below!

You can find me on Ravelry as knittingthestash

In the real world at http://www.english.illinois.edu/people/mml

You can email me here: knittingthestash@gmail.com

Affiliates/Ambassadorships/Amazon Associate Links

I am very pleased to be an ambassador for a number of companies that I enjoy supporting. These include: SweetGeorgia Yarns, Making Stories, and KnitCrate. I often receive products and books for review and testing from these folks and I’m happy to share my opinions with you! I also receive books for review from other, usually independent, authors and publishers. I am happy to share my honest opinion and review of these books here on the blog.

As an Amazon Associate, some links on my blog allow me to receive a small commission on books and other products that I am proud to recommend. In other words, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There is no cost to you when you use these links, but it provides a small stipend to me that helps support my work in the crafting community.

If you are interested in sending books or other knitting products for review, please contact me at knittingthestash@gmail.com and I would be happy to chat!