Tradewind Knitwear Designs by Lucy Neatby

Customer comments on the Knitter's Companion DVDs ...

Your DVD #3 was excellent! I like your teaching style. You are clear in your instruction and I got the feeling that you want to make your student successful. Maybe I can knit with confidence after all.

You are the best teacher ever. I saw your free videos on You Tube and decided I need your videos for sure.

At first, I wasn't sure if I should spend the money for the DVDs, as I have been knitting for over 40 years, how much could I really learn from these films?
Well, let me tell you, every penny was well spent. The sock knitting titles inspired me to purchase your book and to try different ways of making socks. Yes, some of the items are repetetive or I already knew how to do them, but I learned many things from each title. These titles will remain in my library for regualr viewing, and for my children and grandchildren. I can't wait for the two new titles. I have done intarsia knitting before, but am anxious to see what neat little tips or tricks you might offer.

I have lots of knitting DVDs: however, yours are just so professional (great quality and easy to follow instructions) and you show your work close-up. These things you would expect in a DVD, however, not many are actually like that. Love your DVDs and can't wait to see more.

Just to let you know that I recently purchased the DVD, Double Knitting Delights and am utterly delighted with it. I've never used an instructional DVD before , but was desperate for help with a project that required double knitting. This is perfect! It has answered all my questions and shown clearly and concisely how to execute every step along the way. I am very technologically challenged but I easily found my way around and was able to skip around and repeat instructions endlessly to my heart's content. Now I'm hooked! I will be adding all the rest of the DVD's to my knitting library. Thank you so very much for such a great product and for sharing your wonderful skills, talents, and sheer joy in knitting... And, of course, for solving my double knitting problem.

First, thanks so much for your fantastic DVDs. Very informative and so nice to have resources beyond the "begin to knit" genre. I am wondering if you cover tubular bind-off in rib or double rib in any of your DVDs?
I am having a very hard time wrapping my brain around that. It would be grafting tops to tops in rib, right? Please let me know what would be most helpful.

I just had to tell you that on Sunday I set up my portable DVD player in my sewing area so that when I'm ironing something to wear to work or altering/mending I can watch the DVDs that I have. I know I've already said so, but...my oh my, they are good. Your articulation is sooooooo perfectly clear, your vocabulary so easy to understand.
I am mesmerized by the way your fingers move ever so fluidly as though they are one with the fabric so that there are no jarring movements for the eye to follow. It's like watching a dance. I know you've been told how well done these DVDs are, so I am only repeating what others have said. I am anxious to purchase the others that I don't have. Having just watched the first Sock DVD, I know I will never be daunted by the provisional cast-on ever again. I can't wait to look forward to grafting sock toes. Will that ever happen???
With fondest regards and new knitting hutzpah, I am off to choose beads for the hot chili pepper socks having finished them 5 years after starting them. Who knows, I may even tackle an Intarsia sweater one day...well maybe not that far, but definitely renewed enthusiasm.

I must tell you again how wonderful the DVD's are. I am lucky to have all 10 and use them almost daily! I am a visual learner and really like having a lesson when I need it -even at 3 AM! They are so well produced, the techniques are so easy to view and of course, the content is amazing. Can't wait for more. I own many knitting videos/DVD's from another well known teacher and was always impressed with those until I purchased and viewed yours. They are truly the best that there is.

I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your DVD's, I have both essentials, both sock, and the four gem DVDs.
I have knit and unknit a sock at least 8 times; only after watching the segment on alternative knitting and purling have I been able to make my 1x1 ribbing so much better looking. I have gone to great lengths to avoid purling, now I have the confidence (and skill) to work flat stockinette and lace.
The DVD's have helped me improve my knitting and how much I enjoy knitting.

I was excited to receive the DVDs on Tuesday and definitely agree wtih all of the rave reviews. Lucy's innovative techniques and clear explanations have inspired me to consider patterns I would otherwise be intimidated by as a beginner.

I haven't had an opportunity to totally explore all that's in the new DVD's. But once again, I watched a very clear demo, had an "aha!" moment, and a perpetual problem solved. I love applied I-cord but have always had messy grafts. No more! My knitting life is forever elevated and I and quit worrying about trying to find the least obtrusive place to begin and end.
It's so that now, before I do anything, I check the DVD index to see if a technique is addressed there. Much better than ALL of my reference books!
Thanks again for the fabulous instruction!

Thank you for making such an incredible knitting, learning experience available for us knitters who live in the hinterlands, and all of course, who care about improving their craft. The set of DVD's arrived by post just in time to make it into the pack sack as we headed back into the bush.

I spent many hours in deep thought watching the series and have already learned lots from your tips and examples. Once the evening chores are done up and the woodstove is stoked, I am free to knit to my heart's content.

I've been working through the sock patterns in your book and have decided that however practical they may be I just don't care for the look of the Bosnian Square toe, but love the crenellated cuff. Now, the process of socks from the toe up is well understood and at least I did it. The Marietta rib socks are next. Lucy, without the inspiration from your book and DVD's I would have never attempted it. Just working the Simply Splendid Sock pattern on 2.0mm needles in the same sock yarn was a 'wake-up' learning experience. Actually looking at the more dense fabric produced by the finer needles was an epiphany. I have many pairs of this basic sock style knit in comparable yarns on 2.75mm, with which to make wear comparisons. I am able to plainly see which socks I'll be darning. The 'wake-up' part came like a smack with a frozen tree branch when I had to wonder why I was knitting -literally- so thoughtlessly. I've matched yarns to needles in the manufacturers suggested range for years, and just merrily knit along. The Sock Tech. 1 & 2 got that message through and the new series is equally great. When the sock mission is completed I have a sweater to do up which requires steeks and then perhaps I will attempt a lace project about the size of a scarf. Your DVD Knitting Gems 3 has sparked that flame.

Thinking should be a training requirement for knitting. Knitting can be relaxing without being brainless which is obviously apparent to you, but required a neuro-redirect for me. Thank you for using such a gentle smacking process.

Your effort is much appreciated by this blossoming knitter. Thank you.

The DVD's were here within a few days of my order and I thank you for that. I have only opened 2 and watched parts of them. There is SO MUCH on each one, I will have to hope for lots of rainy days. I can only imagine the number of hours you put in getting the DVD's planned and executed, with swatches and all the rest that goes with it. THANK YOU!

I bought your first four dvd's for Christmas (my husband thanks you for the suggestion) and I recently discovered that you had just come out with 6 new ones. I ordered them immediately and for the last week have savored every morsel! Now the problem with your dvd's is that they end and then I'm left without my mentor teaching me more! I love your dvd's!

Thanks for the speedy delivery of the DVDs. I have a goldmine of information with all of these! I ordered them with the thought in mind that knitting teachers need to have as many tricks up their sleeve as possible, both in preparing classes and to present to knitters. (I give credit where it is due, and tell knitters about the DVDs.)

I just took your sock techniques dvds along to Sock Camp with me. Much ohhing and Ahhing as I sang your praises. People just love them. You're a genius.

Thanks so much for sending the 4 CDs - they definitely do live up to their hype. The overhead shots make all the difference in the world. As a knitting teacher it's the view I'd love to give to all my students; but leave it to you to do a superior job. I'll just have to direct them to your web site.

I'm just about done watching each of the DVDs.I have the Double Knitting & Gems 4 to watch still. The rest of the DVDs have been fantastic and I have learned an enormous amount of tips & techniques from them. I particularly appreciate your input about the characteristics of certain techniques. My goal is to be a "thinking knitter", being able to make my own decisions about what techniques I want to use based on the result I want to achieve. Your DVDs are definitely helping me to achieve that goal!

I had the privilege of taking a one-day class with Lucy several years ago while she was in Edmonton (Stony Plain). Watching the first four DVDs, I knew they barely tapped her knowledge.
Talking with friends, several of whom are very experienced knitters, we've concluded that no matter how long you've been knitting or how skilled you are, everyone can learn from these.

By the way, I AM ABSOLUTELY IN LOVE WITH YOUR DVD'S. We are absolutely blown away by them and our customers must feel the same way -- we had to reorder at the end of the first week. I must tell you that the quality of the photography, the resolution and the messages are spectacular.
Good job there, Lucy.

I have your first 4 DVDs and they are exceptional - even for long time knitters. I confess that I am an admirer of your work, having been introduced to your designs (lace) a long time ago.
Please feel free to quote. It's my pleasure to help get the word out about well produced, informative work that can be accessed, in my case, on board our sailboat or whilst camping.

I just wanted to let you know how much I love your DVD's. I have watched all four that I received (Knitting Essentials 1 &2 and Socks 1 &2). All are excellent. I appreciate how they are so clear, easy to understand and I appreciate the time you have taken to produce an excellent knitting video. Thank you again.

I am so pleased with the quality of the DVD, and please pass along to Lucy and the production team what a wonderful job this gal in Texas thinks they did ! I have quite a collection of instructional DVDs, but nothing compares to Lucy's in production quality, instruction and content. I only wish I had it when I taught myself to knit two years ago.

I am writing to tell you how much I am enjoying your DVD's. I'm not sure if you would recall, but we spoke on the phone when I ordered them. I mentioned I had Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, and was unable to attend retreats or seminars. You responded these DVD's would bring you to me.

How do I thank you? I have been an addicted sock knitter for a couple of years now, but there were techniques I had never mastered, like the short-row heel or toe up sock. There were cast ons I wanted to learn. I had a deep desire to learn more about stranded knitting or Fair Isle and exploring the steek - eek!

Your style of teaching is right up my alley. Your approach is brilliant, with the black background and larger needles, and it seems so simple to me now. Even with techniques I already know, you seem to have a new approach or a simpler way to execute them. Your voice is so pleasant, and I love catching glimpses of your beautiful yarn-colored hair.
My love of all things Lucy has been spilling over on my knitting blog, and the comments have been so favorable. Others have expressed their desire to have your DVD's, and it appears the evidence of what I am learning has propelled them to buy. I am thrilled with that thought. Of course it could mean they realize if even a "slow" knitter like me can catch on, they are sure to learn - hee! Perhaps they too have realized what a blessing it is to have you repeat certain sections again, when they didn't get it the first time. Something they wouldn't be able to do in class - at least not too frequently - without making other knitters want to poke them with a sharp double pointed needle!

Lucy, thank you so much for taking the time to teach me, for having the foresight to put your knowledge on DVD so people like me could experience your teaching first-hand. It has been my pleasure to "meet you" and I am devoted fan. (As I mentioned on my blog, I might be a stalker fan if not for this darn wheelchair - heh.) I look forward to more DVD's.

The DVDs arrived safely and well. I've had a bit of a look already and am inspired. I want to do more compex colour work and now that I know about steeking, knitting with the left hand (hard! I will practise as you suggest), I feel I can begin to think about more advanced stuff.
Your explanations are very clear indeed.
One of the things about knitting is that it is largely self-taught, so it's great to see really daring new techniques explained so carefully - and in a way which make it seem possible to take them on (even though it might not be easy). I'm highly enthused!

I recently purchased all 4 DVD's and have found them to be very helpful and informative for a new knitter.
The sock DVD's are the perfect accompaniment to Cool Socks, Warm Feet, the book I'm following to learn how to knit socks. Learning the techniques is much, much easier when so clearly shown, and thoroughly explained.

I got all four DVDs: Which means that now I have absolutely no excuse for not liking to knit socks and never finishing my first pair, because I am convinced that through the magical powers of LucyVision, I will discover something that will make me suddenly want to knit socks for everyone I know.
Looking at the list of what you're putting on the six new ones, I'm in awe, and I can't wait to see them. All of them. I may never let my husband use the television again.
I'm a very happy knitter now, feeling quite spoiled.

I gave your sock book to my mother for Christmas, and she is both impressed and fascinated. Oh, and the sock video I got (#2) is worth your weight in gold :) , unbelievably helpful for one who is a visual learner and needs to actually SEE the action to learn how to do it. By the way, the I-cord-covered wire is an absolute riot, I nearly fell off my chair when I saw it. Marvellous concept.

I consider you right there with Elizabeth Zimmerman for intelligent knitting.

I would like to compliment you on your instructional DVD's. I think they are just great! I really love to hear the "why" rather than just showing how to do something. You've done an excellent job explaining and demonstrating techniques.

I am absolutely in awe over the extraordinary tutelage you so thoroughly deliver on the Sock I and II DVD's. I am ready to place an 'advanced purchase', if you will, for your next 'pair of DVD's'.
God Bless you for going through great lengths to share your knowledge and incredible talent literally with the world. Technology knows no limits.
Thank you so very much.

I've been purchasing vhs tapes on knitting/crochet for years and Lucy's are SUCH a breath of fresh air - what a huge difference!
I just received the sock dvds (I already have the knitting essentials set) and had to drop a note to say how much I LOVE Lucy's dvds...they are wonderful - all of them! I really hope she continues with more topics of knitting in the future. Her style, the way the video is done - all really a pleasure to watch.

I have just received your wonderful DVD's and have just completed watching them (all four) and I'm very excited with all the great information in them.
I would just like to thank you very much for the time and effort you have put into them. I have been knitting for years and you have taught me so much, I can't wait to get started on my socks and try out your methods.
I have told many of my knitting friends about your DVD and your prompt service. Thank you again.

I just wanted to report that I've completed my first bind off using your modified method, and I'm absolutely delighted with the results. That alone makes the price of the DVD worth it! And also the fact that I'm no longer a "dedicated tail threader." Thanks for such a wonderful "knitter's companion."
I'm finding that I watch little snippets of the DVDs and then digest the info before I go back for more. They're just packed with useful information that give even an experienced knitter "AHA!!" moments. I believe they're one of the best knitting investments I've ever made.

I received my DVD yesterday and immediately sat down to watch "a little bit". Well, the little bit turned into the "whole bit". Knitting 2 is fantastic! I can't tell you how much I love it. I am so excited. The instruction is clear and concise, we can see exactly what to do, and I learned so much. I can't wait for the weekend to give some of your techniques a try. Thank you so much for doing the videos. I have seen other videos that attempt to teach viewers, but yours wins the contest hands down! I will be calling to order Socks 1. You can bet I will be telling my knitting group about the DVDs too.
Thanks again for doing a wonderful job!

I recently purchased both of your knitting technique DVDs and I must say I'm very happy with them. I really like your teaching style and find your soft voice very conducive to learning. Kudos on your skills and the lovely way you speak to your students. :-) I truly am thrilled with your DVD's and I'm watching them much more than one time. :)

Great! Your Knitting Essentials DVDs are so wonderful, I guess that you have already received lots of praise for them, but they are really amazing. I learned a lot from them, you are such a wonderful teacher and such a clever knitter. I just can't wait to have the Socks Dvds I'm sure that they are the perfect companion for your awesome book.
Here in Spain we don't have much info on knitting, I just wish I could attend one of your workshops I'm sure that they are also wonderful. Do you ever came to Europe to teach? or should I begin to save to travel to Canada.
Thanks a lot for the Dvds and all the detail and care that has gone into them, for the people that live far away from the knitting centers they are a must-have learning aid.

I just want to tell you that I am thoroughly enjoying the first DVD. Things are very well explained and wonderfully presented. I am one of those people who feel they need to know everything there is to know about a subject they are interested in, and am therefore a knitting book junkie. But even with all of my resources, I am discovering new things and having those "aha" moments where everything comes together. So thank you for coming out with these brilliant DVDs, which I will highly recommend to anyone, no matter what their skill level may be.

Good Morning Lucy, Susan, et al: Just to let you know how much I am enjoying the DVD's, and how perfect I think they will be for a small group to watch together. I will make sure to have information how to order your patterns, in hard form, available to these folks too. Personally, I consider myself an advanced knitter, but still it is hard to remember all the "tricks of the trade" one has picked up over the years. I've only had a chance to look at video 1, it's a wonderful refresher. These are perfect for all levels.
Job well done! I look forward to the sock series (and future ones, when they become available). Congratulations!

Lucy, these are brilliant. I've been knitting flat out for thirty-four years, and I learned something during the first four minutes of Knitting Essentials. Chock full of reassuring common sense and intelligent short cuts, A Knitters Companion is what every knitter has always wanted. Lucy Neatby, warm, intelligent and funny, now forced to live in your living room. Go put on a pot of tea. Lucy's coming over and she's bringing her knitting.

I received the DVD's this morning and even made a bit of time to watch the 1st DVD. I really am impressed with her:
* Visual clarity
* Precision in language
* Organization of topics
* Just enough time and analysis spent on a topic to explain the reasons why - while not over explaining and potentially losing the viewer
These will be in my holiday list to have in the shop!

I'm just finishing my second equilateral vest, and am watching and re-watching your dvd's.
Thank you so very much. Such wonderful tips in the dvds. I ran back to my LYS and told them: if you haven't ordered a set for yourself you must immediately!
The crochet cast on was put to immediate use, as was your improved bindoff.
And I am trying to change from last stitch/pull the end through, to just cutting and ending it as you suggest.
After going through the pattern gallery, I am tempted to try some sock patterns. I'm not sure if I can add to my WIP piles just yet though. The weight of them might implode. Thanks again.

Well, I just had to email you once again since I received the 2 sock DVD's.
I watched # 1 and then 2, and they are absolutely fantastic! Finally, I actually get to see techniques like the provisional cast on, the after thought heel, and the garter stitch heel and toe. There just isn't any way in the world I could have grasped these techniques without actually "seeing" them demonstrated..all with such a vivid bird's eye view and wonderfully clear camera work! :-)
Lucy, you are to be complimented on your talents and your ability to convey techniques that have eluded many knitters until now. These DVD's are jam packed with loads of information that the sock knitter needs, but most often, doesn't get. I love the way you deliver your instructions to knitters in your soft, encouraging, "you can do it" way!
Congratulations on another triumph and know that it was well worth all the hard work you must have put into this.

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