Anne's Norwegian Knitting

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  

In this episode of Anne's Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne takes us on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Norwegian wool production and knitting traditions. As part of Norwegian Woman Month 2025, Anne is joined by Marte, representing a small family-run mill in Selbu, Norway, for an in-depth presentation originally recorded during Wool Month. Marte shares her personal stories, from childhood experiences with sheep and wool to the establishment and operations of the SELBU spinning mill.  What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Marte's personal journey: from childhood memories with sheep to running a spinning mill The story of SELBU Spinneri: preserving small-scale wool production Wool’s path through the mill: sorting, washing, drying, and spinning Insights into carding, combing, plying, and hand-dyeing yarn How small mills balance tradition with modern needs Sustainability and biodiversity in sheep breeds Challenges and opportunities for Norwegian wool in a global market Q&A and closing reflections from Wool Month Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to ANS Norwegian Knitting Conversations01:04 Special Guest Introduction and Event Overview02:23 Meet Marte: A Journey into Wool05:03 The Story of SELBU Spinneri: From Family Tradition to Business11:53 The Importance of Wool Sorting and Spinning22:46 SELBU Spinneri's Commitment to Quality and Tradition26:34 Manual Wool Sorting Process26:59 Small Scale Spinning Mill Operations27:43 Wool Processing Techniques28:49 Washing and Drying Wool30:50 Carding and Combing Wool32:52 Spinning and Plying Yarn34:18 Hand Dyeing and Finishing Yarn38:05 Global Shipping and Distribution42:32 Sustainable Wool Practices45:48 Q&A and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne takes you on a tour of the three journeys that shape her knitting world – the Mountain, the Fjord, and the Northern Light. Why are they called journeys, and not just memberships or levels? Because knitting is more than a skill – it’s a path of discovery. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a lifelong knitter, or someone in between, each journey offers a way to deepen your skills, connect with others, and find magic in your knitting. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: – What the Mountain journey is and why it’s the perfect starting point – How the Fjord journey takes you deeper into colorwork, garments, and gauge – Why the Northern Light journey is about magic, intimacy, and community – Stories from knitters who discovered that learning never stops – no matter your age or experience – Anne’s reflections on knitting as a lifelong journey of growth, curiosity, and connection If you’ve ever wondered which path might be for you – or why knitting is best seen as a journey rather than a destination – this episode is for you. 👉 If you want to learn more about the journeys or book a call with Anne check out this page here.

This is an audio replay of Anne’s Norwegian Wool Month presentation. It works on its own as a podcast, but it’s extra fun to watch on video to see the mill photos and yarns. You can watch it her on YouTube if you prefer that. Anne takes us on a virtual trip to Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk — a fourth–generation family mill on Norway’s west coast — and explores how their history, processes, and color philosophy shape some of her favorite yarns and designs   What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Anne’s own knitting journey and connection to Norwegian wool A guided virtual tour of Hillesvåg Yarn Mill The wool’s path: from fleece to finished yarn Insights into dyeing, yarn varieties, and colorwork How to combine yarns for unique knitting projects Introducing new patterns and project ideas Sock yarn tips and needle preferences Where to source Norwegian yarns globally Sneak peek at upcoming events and courses Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to ANS Norwegian Knitting Conversations 00:40 – Replay of Norwegian Wool Month Presentation 01:13 – Tour of Hillesvåg Yarn Mill 03:20 – Anne’s Knitting Journey & Wool Month Overview 10:31 – Inside the Yarn Mill: From fleece to finished yarn 27:26 – Yarn dyeing & final processing magic 29:43 – Yarn varieties, designs & color schemes 32:42 – Creative yarn combinations for unique projects 35:03 – New patterns & exciting project ideas 45:42 – Sock yarns & needle preferences 48:08 – Global suppliers & availability tips 53:51 – Upcoming events & closing thoughts    For Full Show Notes and Transcript Click Here.

In this episode of ANS Norwegian Knitting Conversations, Anne and co-host Steph invite you into the heart of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting universe. Together, they unravel the three main journeys: Mountain, Fjord, and Northern Lights, each designed to meet knitters at different stages of their creative path. Whether you’re just picking up your needles for the first time or seeking the thrill of intricate, advanced projects, this episode will help you discover where you fit in this vibrant knitting community. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Mountain Journey - A warm welcome for beginners and community enthusiasts, starting with Level Zero, where you’ll master the basics of continental knitting. Fjord Journey - Dive deeper with Level One for two-color knitting and Level Two for advanced sweaters, cardigans, and perfect-fit techniques. Northern Lights Journey -The pinnacle challenge, Level Three, for adventurous knitters ready for complex designs and cultural richness. Insights into weekly live classes, cultural learning, and Norwegian-inspired recipes. Behind-the-scenes on how courses are structured, repeated, and scheduled for year-round learning. Special offerings like new patterns, retreats, and exclusive community support.   Not sure where you fit? Book a one-on-one talk with Anne and discover your perfect journey. Click HERE to book a 1:1   For Full Show Notes and Transcript Click Here. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & Introductions01:03 Restructuring into Three Journeys03:26 Overview – Mountain, Fjord & Northern Lights05:53 Mountain Level – Community, Patterns & Cultural Learning28:09 Level Zero – Continental Knitting Basics34:43 Level One – Two-Color Knitting, Live Support & Gauge45:17 Level Two – Perfect Fit, Sweater Adjustments & Advanced Techniques51:42 Fjord Level – Full Program, Offers & Pricing56:25 Northern Lights – Level Three Challenge & Extras01:11:56 Community, Support & Closing

In this episode of Stranded Thoughts, Anne reflects on a deceptively simple – yet incredibly powerful – idea: how knowing your gauge can transform the way you knit socks… and everything else. Yes, it sounds practical. But it’s also magic. Anne shares a piece of advice she once received: “If you know how to knit socks, you know all the techniques you need to create anything.” Mentioned in this episode:- The new Norwegian Wool Month sock pattern – including notes on gauge flexibility- Live and recorded support inside the Nook this month- A reminder to write down what you do when experimenting – because you won’t remember it next week! 🎧 Listen now to discover why socks are more than practical – they’re powerful. And if you’re feeling brave: swatch, measure, and play. You’re ready.

  This special episode marks the soft opening of Norwegian Wool Month 2025 with a heartfelt panel conversation straight from the Nook – Anne’s vibrant knitting community. Join Anne and co-host Steph as they welcome three cherished Nookers – Laura, Sandra, and Jo – for a cozy, candid, and deeply inspiring chat about knitting, connection, and the stories that shape us. You’ll hear personal journeys into Norwegian knitting, tales of ancestral mittens, the joys (and surprises) of switching from acrylic to wool, and what it really means to be part of a community that’s as much about heritage and history as it is about yarn and patterns. Whether you're curious about the Nook or already part of it, this episode gives you an inside look at the rhythms, rituals, and relationships that bring Anne’s world to life – and why Norwegian Wool Month wouldn’t be complete without it. 🧶 Highlights include: What the Nook is – and why it’s so much more than a membership The personal stories that knitters bring to their craft How Norwegian culture, language, and wool traditions shape the experience Reflections on learning, growing, and knitting together – even across continents Sneak peeks at patterns, projects, and what’s ahead for Wool Month 🎧 Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to ANK Conversations 00:41 – Announcements & Wool Month Intro 02:37 – Meet Steph & the Panel 07:04 – Member Stories: Laura, Joe, Sandra 14:46 – Knitting Journeys & Life Transitions 22:05 – Gauge, Growth & Generations 28:20 – From Acrylic to Wool 30:21 – What Makes the Nook Special 39:07 – Norwegian Wool & Accessibility 44:46 – History, Culture & Holiday Projects 47:26 – Membership Options & Looking Ahead 👉 Want to explore the Nook or see what all the wooly fuss is about? Check out the Nook here »   For Show Notes and Transcript Click Here.     Join the conversation and be part of the journey through stitches and stories.

In Norway, a good pair of wool socks isn’t just a a pair of socks. In this short episode, Anne shares the story of the raggsokk, a thick, hand-knit wool sock that has kept Norwegian feet warm for generations. You’ll hear: What makes a raggsokk different from ordinary socks Why Norwegians love these thick, practical socks in autumn and winter A little peek into Norwegian sock terminology: Sokk – covers the foot up to the ankle Strømpe – covers the leg, thin or thick Knestrømpe – knee-high sock Ankelsokk – ankle sock How a humble pair of socks carries the cozy essence of Norwegian winter life Whether you’re a sock knitter, a sock wearer, or just love a cozy story, this episode is a little reminder of the warmth that simple stitches can bring. 🎧 Listen now and imagine the comfort of thick wool, warm toes, and a touch of Norwegian tradition.

Wool Month is back for its third year! In this extended episode, Anne and Steph take you behind the scenes of the free annual event that celebrates Norwegian wool, its heritage, and the knitting traditions that keep it alive. From the story of how Wool Month began as a spontaneous idea to the details of this year’s pattern and guest presentations, you’ll hear the history, the practical tips, and the heart behind this celebration. If you love yarn, history, and authentic Norwegian knitting, this is the episode for you! For Show Notes and Transcript Click Here.  

In this episode of Stranded Thoughts, Anne shares reflections from her recent trip to Setesdal and a meaningful visit with the legendary textile storyteller Annemor Sundbø. Together, they explore the deeper meanings woven into wool – from ancient beliefs to hidden symbols in traditional knitting. Anne reflects on the sacred power once attributed to sheep, wool, and thread, and how symbols like the grid inside Norwegian mittens weren’t just decorative – they were protective. She then draws a quiet but powerful connection between those old beliefs and a small detail in her newest sock design for Norwegian Wool Month. In This Episode: – A visit to Setesdal and meeting Annemor Sundbø – Reflections on Annemor’s newest book and life’s work – How wool was seen as sacred in pre-Christian Norway – The evolving meaning of symbols – from the swastika to the knitting grid – Why symbols in old mittens weren’t for display, but for protection – The hidden grid on the sole of Anne’s new sock pattern – A quiet invitation to connect with the past through stitches Mentioned in This Episode: – Annemor Sundbø – author, textile historian, and storyteller – Norwegian Wool Month – Anne’s annual celebration of wool (August/September)

This week, I’ve escaped to the very south of Norway – to a small place near Lindesnes, where the little white houses called sørlandshus dot the coastline like pearls. In this episode, I talk about these charming old houses – their creaky wooden floors, their history, and how they’ve become a symbol of Sørlandet. According to Store Norske Leksikon, a sørlandshus is a traditional one-and-a-half-story house with a rectangular floor plan, low-pitched gable roof, and symmetrical windows. Most are now white, though many were red in the past. We’re staying in one from the 1860s, lovingly restored – and filled with crooked charm, blooming gardens, and just a little bit of fairytale magic. And in the middle of all that? Me – with my coffee, my breakfast, and my knitting. 🖼️ You’ll find pictures of the house and garden in the show notes here.

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode, Anne and Steph dive into the philosophies that shape Anne’s life, teaching, and community. From her favorite mantra – “You are exactly where you’re supposed to be” – to the concept of “the gap and the gain,” Anne shares how her journey from burnout to business owner became the foundation for a supportive and transformational knitting community. Listeners will hear the behind-the-scenes story of how Anne's KNIT Method was born – blending Knowledge & Heritage, Nurture & Community, Inspiration & Mastery, and Technique & Tradition – and why her mission goes far beyond patterns. She opens up about the decision to serve the English speaking market, her passion for preserving and sharing Norwegian culture, and why she sees knitting as a doorway to something bigger. Steph and Anne also talk about how they maintain such a positive and inclusive community, including why Anne personally interviews members who apply to join the Great Experience. Whether you’re here for technique, community, or inspiration, this episode offers a rare look into the heart of Anne’s work – and why so many knitters say it changes more than just their stitches. For shownotes and transcript Click Here.  

Stranded Thoughts: Between the Mountains, You Find the Dal In this short reflection, Anne shares the meaning behind the Norwegian word dal – valley – and how this quiet, powerful landscape continues to shape her life, her knitting, and her sense of freedom. Recorded during her visit to Setesdal, one of Norway’s most historically rich regions, Anne explores how valleys give shape to mountains, and how being nestled between them brings both perspective and peace. She reflects on her deep connection to the mountains and the hidden meaning behind names like Hemsedal and Setesdal, which are more than just destinations – they're stories. This episode is a quiet walk through language, memory, and meaning – an invitation to pause and notice the places that hold us, shape us, and inspire what we create with our hands. Mentioned in this episode: The meaning and use of dal in Norwegian place names Hemsedal, Anne’s beloved mountain home Setesdal, a valley rich with Viking and Iron Age history The feeling of standing in a valley and looking toward freedom A quiet hint of a future knitting pattern inspired by Setesdal

This week, Anne shares a story that starts with chocolate and ends with a classic Norwegian expression – one that might just surprise you. You’ll meet the iconic Kvikk Lunsj (Norway’s beloved hiking chocolate), learn why it's definitely not a Kit Kat, and discover the deeper meaning behind the phrase: "To swear in church" (å banne i kirka) Because, really – some things are sacred. Like Kvikk Lunsj.   In this episode: What Kvikk Lunsj is – and why Norwegians treasure it The cultural importance of food, tradition, and language Why calling Kvikk Lunsj a “Norwegian Kit Kat” is practically a scandal A peek into the Norwegian phrase “å banne i kirka” And a question for you: Have you ever sworn in church? (Not literally, of course…)   Norwegian phrase of the week: Banne i kirka – “To swear in church”Used when someone says or does something so wildly inappropriate (in context) that it feels like a cultural faux pas

In this cozy and inspiring conversation, Anne and Steph chat with special guest Suzanne Ullrich – knitter, entrepreneur, and founder of SU Fibers. From a twisted shawl mishap to a full-blown yarn business, Suzanne shares how her love of color, numbers, and service led her to become a beloved part of Anne’s Norwegian Knitting community. Whether you’ve met her through The Nook, Norwegian Knitting Magic, or just love hearing about yarn dreams turned real, this one’s for you. Go here for Transcript and more Show Notes

🧶 Stranded Thoughts #1: Knit the Purls? Welcome to the very first mini episode of Stranded Thoughts—a weekly dose of Norwegian knitting reflections, fun facts, and language quirks from Anne. In this debut episode, Anne unravels a common source of confusion for English-speaking knitters: why she sometimes says “knit the purl stitches” in her classes – and what she really means! 🌟 You’ll hear about: The charming linguistic tangle between Norwegian and English knitting terms Why the word strikke in Norwegian covers all kinds of stitches The cultural nuance behind “rett” (right) and “vrang” (wrong) stitches And this week’s featured Norwegian word: vrang – stubborn, inside out, and full of meaning Whether you’ve ever puzzled over pattern instructions or just love words as much as wool, this episode is for you. 📌 Mentioned in this episode: Norwegian word of the week: vrang (pronounced [vr-ahng]) – meaning wrong side, inside out, or even stubborn rett maske = knit stitch (literally: right stitch) vrang maske = purl stitch (literally: wrong stitch) 🧵 Heads up: “Knit the purl” may not mean what you think – it’s just Norwegian-English translation mischief! Thanks for listening—and remember: Knit your knits and purl your purls!  

In this episode of Anne's Norwegian Knitting Podcast, Anne and Steph discuss the origins of their podcast and delve into Anne's personal journey with knitting. They highlight the collaborative nature of their team and announce their commitment to creating regular podcast content. Anne reflects on how her knitting journey was influenced by family traditions and the unique creative process that led her to design signature patterns such as the Mountain Rose and the February Knit Bliss hat. They also explore Anne’s unique approach to pattern creation and the evolution of her business model to focus on community, history, and a love for knitting. Highlighting the creative inspirations and pivotal moments that shaped her career, Anne emphasizes her passion for fostering a supportive and enriching knitting community.  For transcript and show notes CLICK HERE