Anne's Norwegian Knitting

In this week’s Stranded Thought, Anne shares why she knits exclusively with natural fibres – and why acrylics, superwash yarns and other synthetics just don’t belong in her designs. Anne offers a warm but clear reflection on sustainability, heritage and the materials we place in our hands. A deeper conversation with Steph on this topic is coming later this winter – but for now, enjoy a short moment of pause and perspective.

In this episode, I sit down with Steph – our knitting coach, multitalented maker, and the one who brings so much depth, history and humour into our community. We talk about her Norwegian heritage, her deep dive into Viking Age textiles, the unexpected twists that led her into knitting, and how her life experiences shape the way she teaches today. From woodcarving to quilt making, from Montana to Norwegian folk schools, from award-winning designs to her philosophy of “everything is fixable” – this conversation is full of heart.  Full show notes can be found here   Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations00:39 Meet Steph: Team Anne's Knitting Coach02:18 Steph's Norwegian Heritage and Family Stories07:14 Steph's Knitting Journey: From Childhood to College10:21 Diving into Viking Age Textiles18:42 Joining Anne's Knitting Community24:53 Norwegian Home Traditions and Decor29:06 Grandma's Handmade Curtains31:09 Home Decor Traditions32:23 Dream Projects and Creative Aspirations37:00 Designing Patterns: Challenges and Achievements48:03 Knitting Philosophy and Evolution50:02 Community and Connection54:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Please keep in mind that this bonus episode was originally delivered on video, so you may hear moments that reference visuals or people on screen. The audio has been shared here for a short time only. This bonus episode shares the audio from my recent information call – a simple, informal walkthrough of Levels 0, 1 and 2, along with the Mountain and Fjord Journeys. Many knitters asked for clarity before choosing their next step, so this audio-only version gives you the essential guidance without the visuals or the live-room moments. Inside, you’ll hear how the levels fit together, what each journey includes, and the kinds of projects and skills you can expect. It’s a friendly, helpful overview designed to make your next decision feel clear and grounded. In this episode, you’ll hear: – A walkthrough of Levels 0, 1 and 2 – The differences between the Mountain Journey and the Fjord Journey – How the courses build and connect – Tips on choosing where to begin – Answers to common questions from knitters who attended live Availability: This bonus episode will be available for a short time only. Links mentioned in this episode:Book a 1:1 with anne: https://annesnorwegianknitting-9.youcanbook.meAnne's Norwegian Knitting web page: https://annesnorwegianknitting.com  

In this week’s Stranded Thought, Anne reflects on a season filled with gratitude and how knitting brings calm, presence and steadiness into a fast–moving world. She shares how the community – from the early Mountain Journey members to the Northern Lights founding knitters – has shaped her days and continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of her work. Inside the episode, Anne talks about: – Noticing the small details through knitting – Why process matters just as much as projects – How community creates confidence, joy and connection – What a full year in the Mountain or Fjord can offer At the end, you’re invited to an informal information call on Tuesday, December 2nd – a friendly overview of Level 0, Level 1, Level 2, the Mountain Journey and the Fjord Journey. To register click HERE      

In today’s Stranded Thought, Anne follows two gentle threads. First, she shares that she’ll soon be interviewing Steph – her co-podcaster and knitting coach. Many listeners know Steph from the long Wednesday episodes and community calls, and for this upcoming conversation, Anne would love your help. What would you like her to ask Steph? Send in your questions, big or small. The second thread is for anyone wondering about their next step in Norwegian knitting. While the Northern Light Journey is full, enrollment for the Fjord Journey and Levels 0, 1, and 2 is open now. Fjord and Level 2 close on December 7, and live teaching for Level 1 begins in January. To help you find clarity, Anne is hosting a live information call on Wednesday, November 26 at 9 p.m. CET (not recorded). She’ll walk through the options and answer questions directly. Time zones:  8 p.m. UK/Ireland / 3 p.m. Eastern / 2 p.m. Central / 1 p.m. Mountain / 12 p.m. Pacific Two threads today: ✨ Send your questions for the Steph interview to hello@varmdesign.no  ✨ Join the information call if you want guidance on the next step. Register here! Check out the overview page here Check out the Google doc here

In this week’s Stranded Thoughts, Anne takes you on a gentle wander into the mountains – not literally, but in that soft, figurative way knitters understand so well. She reflects on why the mountains are her happiest place, her reset button, and the landscape that shaped the structure of her knitting community. From the quiet, wide views that clear the mind to the deep inspiration found in the shifting seasons, this short episode offers a moment to breathe, reconnect, and remember why a change of perspective matters. Anne also shares why everything in her world begins in the Mountain Journey – the first layer of her three–part membership shaped after the Norwegian landscape – and why now is a special moment to join. Read more and join the Mountain Journey: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/Mountain_Journey .

As the first snow falls (for some of us!) and November settles in, Anne and Steph invite you into their living room for a cozy chat about knitting, bread-baking, bulbs, and upcoming make-alongs. They talk about: Preparing for winter – the coziness of early snow, soup, and candles The Mountain Journey community projects: Doll Make-Along, Bread Basket, and Pot Holder patterns Felting tips and how to make your knitted bread basket stand firm The “Winter Solstice Challenge” – planting bulbs and knitting pot covers Ideas for the Christmas Stocking Knit Along and the joy of slow festive knitting Upcoming patterns and seasonal projects: acorns, pumpkins, angels, trees and stars How small handmade traditions bring calm and connection during the busiest time of year Anne also shares a little Norwegian perspective on bulbs (“flower onions” in Norwegian!) and the history behind the word for Christmas – Jul – and how old traditions still live on in modern Norway. Join the Mountain Journey community to knit along with us this season – and receive the Tree Festival Pattern Collection as a bonus when you join in November or December. Link to transcript and shownotes   Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:40 Cozy Conversations in the Living Room 01:09 Winter Preparations and First Snow 02:19 Knitting Projects and Color Choices 05:37 Doll Make-Along and Creative Mixes 07:19 Bread Basket Knitting and Felting Tips 14:06 Weekend Plans and Cozy Challenges 17:28 Discovering the Perfect Bulbs 18:31 Choosing the Right Flowers for Christmas 19:47 Where to Find Your Bulbs 20:22 Join the Winter Solstice Challenge 22:27 Christmas Stocking Knit Along 25:43 Seasonal Patterns and Projects 31:25 Norwegian Traditions and Heritage 32:18 Join the Community and Enjoy the Journey 37:18 Final Thoughts and Farewell  

  In this week’s Stranded Thought, Anne reflects on how small traditions grow – and how the Home Décor series inside the Mountain Journey has quietly become one of them. This year’s new addition is the Bread Basket, released together with a Norwegian bread recipe and a reminder of last year’s Potholders. All three come together beautifully – a perfect blend of warmth, texture, and everyday Norwegian coziness. Anne shares why she chooses white and green for her Christmas décor, what inspires the color palette, and how these projects invite calm and connection during the holiday season. Join the Mountain Journey Want to knit along with us this season? Join the Mountain Journey (formerly known as the Nook) – our cozy knitting community where new patterns, tutorials, and traditions come to life all year round. 👉 Click here to join the Mountain Journey   

In this episode of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne and Steph are joined by special guest Jan Griffin, a nurse practitioner and lifelong knitter, to explore the connection between knitting and mental health. Together they talk about how the rhythmic movement of the needles can help us focus, calm the mind, and ease anxiety, and how creativity itself sparks the brain’s “feel-good” chemistry. Jan shares insights from her medical background on why repetitive handwork can lower cortisol, release dopamine and serotonin, and even help the brain form new pathways after stress or trauma. They also discuss how community and connection – from knitting circles to online gatherings – can help ease loneliness and support emotional healing. Whether you turn to knitting for comfort, mindfulness, or simply the joy of making something beautiful, this conversation will remind you that every stitch holds more power than you might think.   Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:40 Welcoming Steph and Special Guest Jan Griffin 02:00 Jan's Knitting Journey and Early Experiences 03:29 Mental Health Benefits of Knitting 07:58 Knitting and Focus: Personal Stories 09:09 The Science Behind Knitting's Therapeutic Effects 14:28 Knitting for Trauma and Emotional Healing 24:14 The Emotional and Social Benefits of Knitting 27:03 Knitting in Schools and Therapy 29:44 Addressing Loneliness Through Knitting Communities 34:12 Knitting's Role in Mental Health and Wellness 35:28 Knitting Across Generations 44:50 Knitting in Public and Its Impact 46:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   See full show notes and transcript here.

In this episode Anne and Steph share their personal journeys of learning to knit – from childhood lessons with grandmothers to rediscovering knitting as adults. They explore how the craft evolves over a lifetime, why every knitter benefits from revisiting the basics, and how the Level Zero and Level One self-study courses are designed to support true beginners and experienced knitters alike. A warm, reflective conversation about learning, re-learning, and embracing the imperfect beginnings that lead to beautiful stitches.   They talk about: Childhood memories of learning to knit English vs. Continental knitting – and why many knitters switch The evolution of skill, patience, and understanding What’s included in the Level Zero and Level One courses The value of keeping your first “wonky” knitting How gauge, community, and self-study all tie together Why it’s never too late to start (or start over) 🧶 Mentioned in this episode: Level Zero and Level One Self-Study Courses   Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:59 Learning to Knit: Personal Stories 03:43 Knitting Techniques: English vs. Continental 05:04 The Evolution of Knitting Skills 08:47 Introduction to Beginner Knitting Levels 13:20 Level Zero and Level One Self-Study Courses 18:34 The Importance of Keeping Your First Knitting Projects 20:41 Introduction to Level One Knitting 21:05 Course Structure and Progression 22:48 Self-Study vs. Live Teaching 24:00 Community Support and Resources 25:20 Unique Features of Our Courses 28:09 Health Benefits of Learning Continental Knitting 32:13 The Importance of Knowing Your Gauge 34:23 Encouragement to Join the Courses 35:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   See full show notes and transcript here.

On July 4th, 1825, the small ship Restoration left Stavanger with 52 people on board – the first Norwegian emigrants bound for North America. Three months later, they arrived in New York, still 52 in number. One had stepped off before the open sea, and a baby had been born along the way. In this episode, Anne reflects on how that first voyage shaped the lasting bond between Norway and North America – and how it continues to inspire the Anne’s Norwegian Knitting community, from the Virtual Retreat to the Yuletide Dolls.   Links mentioned in this episode: Join the 2026 Virtual Norwegian Knitting Retreat Sign up for the Yuletide Doll Make-Along Email address referred to hello @ varmdesign.no (remove the space before and after the @ when you write to us)

In this cozy episode, Anne and Steph settle into the “living room” to talk about the last quarter of the year – the season of wool, warmth, and heirloom-making. They share the story behind Nikoline & Nikolas, the much-loved Norwegian holiday dolls returning as this year’s Yuletide Make-Along, and how these small knitted figures grew from Anne’s own childhood memories into modern heirloom pieces. You’ll also hear about: The new felted bread basket – a small, cozy addition to Anne’s holiday series Norwegian winter traditions, from Yule porridge to the folklore of the nisse How Norwegians decorate for winter (fewer pumpkins – more coziness) Tips for felting, yarn choices, and combining thick and thin wools What’s included in the Mountain Journey this quarter and how the drip-outs work Whether you’re joining the Make-Along or simply love hearing how Norwegian folklore weaves into modern knitting, this episode is full of stories, laughter, and woolly inspiration. 🧶  Join the Yuletide Doll Make-Along – $17 USD Join the Mountain Journey – 37.6 USD (20 % off right now)   See full show notes and transcript here.   Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to Our Cozy Living Room00:34 – Discussing Fourth Quarter Plans01:43 – Knitting Projects for the Season02:42 – Holiday Traditions and Decorations14:13 – Introducing the Nikolas Dolls19:58 – Upcoming Projects and Workshops22:40 – Project Planning and Changes23:15 – Introducing the Felted Bread Basket23:47 – Tips for Felting and Yarn Selection25:57 – Doll Projects and Yarn Recommendations30:11 – Norwegian Folklore and Christmas Traditions37:50 – Membership and Make-Along Details43:16 – Conclusion and Farewell Join the Mountain Journey to access all the projects and celebrate Norwegian knitting traditions with us. 👉 Click the link here: Mountain Journey  See full show notes and transcript

In this week’s Stranded Thoughts, Anne reflects on the rhythm of October and the joy of small projects. While sweaters and cardigans may dominate the season, it’s often the little knits – pumpkins, acorns, stockings, or a tiny doll – that slip between the bigger projects and bring unexpected joy. These small stitches don’t just fill the gaps. Over time, they can grow into traditions, resurfacing year after year as markers of memory and meaning. Anne shares why she treasures these kinds of projects, and why she’s bringing back the Yuletide dolls, Nikolas and Nicoline – small knits with the potential to become lasting heirlooms. ✨ Want to make the dolls yourself? Join the Yuletide Dolls Make-Along here . 🎧 Tune in for a reflection on knitting, memory, and the traditions that start from the smallest of stitches.

In this episode, Anne and Steph pull back the curtain on the 2026 Virtual Norwegian Knitting Retreat, a gathering where tradition, culture, and creativity come together in unforgettable ways. They share stories from last year’s retreat from history-rich talks and breakout circles that felt like living room chats, to goodie bags filled with yarn, chocolate, and Norwegian treasures. And they reveal what’s blooming for 2026: the Norwegian Wildflowers theme, new patterns, cultural touchpoints, guest designers, and experiences that extend far beyond the retreat weekend. It’s more than knitting. It’s an immersive journey into heritage, community, and joy. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How the retreat weaves together history, craft, and cultural experiences The inspiration behind this year’s floral theme and new designs Guest sessions on embroidery, plant-dyeing, and Saami knitting traditions The heart of community: breakout rooms, fashion shows, and shared stories Why this retreat is about connection as much as stitches Timestamps 00:00 – Warm Welcome and Introduction 03:22 – Reflections from Last Year’s Retreat 16:00 – Knitting and Norwegian Culture 23:36 – Theme Reveal: Norwegian Wildflowers 36:15 – Postcards from Norway & Cultural Elements 43:53 – Saami Designer Guest Session 48:45 – Fashion Show & Breakout Community Sessions 52:06 – Goodie Boxes and Participant Experience 55:10 – How to Join the Virtual Retreat 58:26 – Looking Ahead: Next Summer’s In-Person Retreat Whether you’re a new knitter or a lifelong maker, you’re invited to join this celebration where stitches bloom and stories grow. 👉 Learn more and sign up: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/virtual-retreat-2026  See full show notes and transcript here.

This week’s Stranded Thought is a reflection on what makes the Virtual Knitting Retreat so special – and why it’s not about the patterns. Yes, you’ll receive exclusive designs, but they’re souvenirs of the experience, not the reason for it. The true heart of the retreat is the retreat itself: stepping into Norwegian knitting and culture, hearing stories and traditions from incredible voices, and sharing a space that feels immersive and inspiring, even from your own living room. Tune in for a few minutes of reflection ahead of Wednesday’s full podcast episode, where we’ll share all the details about the 2026 retreat. 🎧 Listen now and carry Norwegian knitting a little deeper into your day. Want to check out the retreat go here: https://www.annesnorwegianknitting.com/virtual-retreat-2026 

In this episode, Anne and Steph sit down to talk about one of the most overlooked tools in knitting – the humble journal. They swap stories about their very different journaling styles: Anne with her bound, artful notebooks full of doodles and design sketches, and Steph with her graph paper, binders, and careful tabs. Together, they explore how journaling helps knitters remember details that the brain never will – yarn labels, dye lots, needle sizes, stitch counts, gauge before and after washing, and those little adjustments that make a garment truly yours. Along the way, they share practical tips (like writing in full sentences so your notes make sense years later) and personal reflections on why these records matter. But it’s not just about efficiency – knitting journals can become creative outlets, cultural records, and companions on your knitting journey. Whether you’re tracking your progress, planning a design, or simply capturing the joy of a finished sweater, a knitting journal can turn fleeting stitches into lasting memories. See full show notes and transcript here

In this Stranded Thought, Anne lingers on the threads of tradition, culture, and memory that wove through Norwegian Wool Month 2025. From sheep, spinners, and mills to the landscapes and communities that keep wool alive, the month was full of stories. One story in particular keeps calling Anne back: that of Marit Emstad, often called the mother of Selbu knitting. You’ll hear how the Selbu rose – the iconic star-shaped motif – traveled across centuries and continents before becoming deeply rooted in one Norwegian village, and how it remains a powerful symbol of identity and craft today. This episode is a reflection on how knitting traditions are never frozen in time. Each stitch we make carries history forward, connects us to one another, and creates heirlooms for future generations. Anne also looks ahead to the Norwegian Virtual Knitting Retreat in early 2026 – a chance to continue exploring wool, culture, and connection together. In this episode: Why Norwegian Wool Month is about more than yarn  The story of Marit Emstad and the Selbu rose How a motif can travel across continents and centuries Tradition as something living, moving, and evolving Carrying history forward in every stitch we knit  

In this special episode of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne and Steph host a heartfelt panel chat with knitters from what was once called the Great Experience – now the Northern Lights Journey. You’ll meet Carol, Sally, Jeanet, and Jan as they share: How they discovered Anne’s Norwegian Knitting and the community that has grown around it The projects that challenged them – from shawls and socks to sweaters and mittens – and what they learned along the way Why community, encouragement, and detailed guidance make all the difference in their knitting journeys Personal stories of finding connection, creativity, and confidence through Norwegian traditions This episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and the reminder that knitting is never just about stitches – it’s about belonging, growth, and joy. ✨ Sign-ups for the Northern Lights may be closed at the time you listen, but you can always join the waitlist to be first in line for the next opening.  👉 Join the Northern Lights waitlist here 👉 Get the complete show notes and transcript here

What does it really mean to “know how to knit”? In this Stranded Thought, Anne takes inspiration from the TV show So You Think You Can Dance to explore a familiar phrase she’s heard countless times: “I thought I knew how to knit… but clearly I didn’t.” Through stories of knitters who have joined her journeys – many of them with decades of experience – Anne reflects on why knitting is not just a skill to master once, but a lifelong journey of curiosity, humility, and growth. Inside Anne’s Norwegian Knitting, it’s not about proving what you already know. It’s about arriving with an open heart, ready to learn, to share, and to move forward together in community. 🎧 Listen in, and maybe you’ll find yourself asking: what more might be waiting in your knitting journey?  Want to join us for one of the Journeys? Check it out here

In this episode of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne hosts a lively panel chat with three knitters – Brenda, Yvonne, and Kristal – who share their experiences moving through Level 1 and Level 2 of the Fjord Journey. Together they talk about learning new techniques, discovering the joy of continental knitting, mastering gauge, and the courage to choose colors that reflect both personality and inspiration from nature. You’ll hear stories of sweaters that finally fit, the shift from throwing to Continental, and the difference a safe and encouraging community makes when you’re learning something new. Whether you’re curious about the Fjord Journey or simply want to hear the voices of fellow knitters who have taken the leap, this episode is full of warmth, honesty, and inspiration. For full transcript, pictures and show notes, click here To read more about the Journeys click here Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations00:40 Introduction to Today's Panel Chat01:10 Restructuring and New Offerings03:22 Meet the Panel: Brenda, Yvonne, and Crystal03:59 Brenda's Knitting Journey04:23 Yvonne's Knitting Experience04:57 Crystal's Color Work and Sizing Insights22:05 Practical Knitting Tips and Techniques23:03 Choosing Colors and Community Support24:32 The Importance of a Positive Learning Environment28:05 Personal Stories and Experiences38:59 Course Structure and Offerings43:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events