Episode #304: Ann Shayne and Kay Gardiner from Modern Daily Knitting
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a craft community with my guests Ann Shayne and Kay Gardiner Kay Gardiner and Ann Shayne are the co-founders of Modern Daily Knitting , one of the most vibrant places in today’s knitting world. Their partnership began in 2003 with a blog that quickly grew into a beloved hangout online, known for its humor, warmth, and stalwart belief that knitting is a vital part of a life well lived. In 2024, they created Nash Yarn Fest , a big-hearted, large-scale annual gathering with vendors, speakers, and a Friday night hootenanny. Beginning in 2025, they created a welcoming, inclusive community called The MDK Society , where members gather online and in person, and save all year long on MDK classes, shopping, and events. And, in what has been the ultimate manifestation of a dream and most certainly their steepest learning curve, they developed two MDK-exclusive yarns, American-made Atlas and British-made Jane. Through all this, MDK has proved to be most definitely part of a life well lived. Join MDK Society with a special discount for our listeners! Use the code CIA10 for 10% off MDK Society now through Feb. 28, 2026. +++++ This episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching. Most craft businesses are sitting on decades of expertise - techniques, processes, and problem-solving knowledge. As tariffs and rising costs compress margins, that knowledge matters more than ever. The Academy for Virtual Teaching’s - Virtual Teaching 101 helps craft businesses explore whether that knowledge could become a complementary income stream beyond physical products. Learn more at academyforvirtualteaching.com . +++++ To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today .