I was reading the Knitting Tips and Techniques section of Carol Rasumussen Noble's book Style at Large when I read her comments on circular needles and how they do not hold an even tension. I generally prefer straight needles myself but I do use circulars depending on the project. When I worked at my LYS it did seem that a higher percentage of Knitters preferred circulars. I've always read that knitting becomes more even the longer it is off the needles and especially after it is worn and washed. I generally chose my needles based on fibre type and with the project requirements in mind. I'm very curious about this have any of you found this to be true?You can see the details of her comments hereIt is copyrighted material but shows on the pages that Amazon lets the public see so I believe that I am not breaking any rules here.You can see more of Carol's amazing work here on Ravelry .
Once a week I post interviews with interesting designers about their insights on their experience of working in the Knitting industry. I’ve noticed that every designer makes their living in a slightly different manner bringing their own unique presence to the Knitting world.
Everywhere, but particularly in the classroom. I consider myself a teacher as opposed to a designer, so most of my designs are based on the desire to share an interesting concept, technique or skill.
What is your favourite knitting technique?
Entrelac has been my passion since I was first introduced to it over 20 years ago and have just recently published a new book, Entrée to Entrelac on the topic. But honestly, I like all aspects of knitting because there is so much to choose from.
How did you determine your size range?
I have one good friend who is really petite and another who is rather large, so I try to accommodate them both as well as everyone in the middle. However, some styles just won’t work on some body sizes and some patterns (for any number of reasons) will not scale up or down to my preferred range. But whenever possible I strive for 5 – 7 sizes.
Do you look at other designers' work or are you afraid that you will be influenced by their designs?
ABSOLUTELY!! And I hope to be influenced as I work with LOTS of really talented people and I hope some of it my rub off! Other designers help me think about alternative construction, garment details, stitch patterns and so much more. I don’t have a good enough memory to copy anything I have seen, but elements will mix as they float around in my head and hopefully my results are all the better because of it.
How do you feel about the so called controversy of "dumbing down" patterns for knitters?
I feel different patterns should be accessible to different knitters. My Skill Builder Pattern line is specifically designed to give knitters the tools to learn new skills while working through a project. But there will also be prerequisite skills listed as well. Too many words can over complicate a pattern just as too few words.
How many sample/test knitters do you have working for you or do you do it all yourself?
I could never do all the knitting by myself (I am way too slow), but I also don’t have a large stable of knitters either. Right now I have about 5 – 7 that work with me fairly regularly depending upon what else is going on in their lives. Good test knitters are really hard to find, so when you find one, you treasure them!
Did you do a formal business plan?
I actually did write out a formal business plan, but now focus more on my marketing plan which I try to review at least twice a year. I am a planner by nature and a business person first and foremost, so it really made sense for me.
Do you have a mentor?
Not in any formal sense of the word, but I have sought and received advice from a number of individuals in the industry. Mostly now I have a network – a group that shares information in all directions.
What impact has the Internet had on your business?
My business was based originally on the Internet so it has had lots of impact. But trying to utilize it to its fullest extent is always a challenge. I think easy access to information is very positive for the industry.
Do you use a Tech Editor?
Of course!! Even though I also do tech editing, you cannot tech edit your own work. Honestly, I don’t consider a pattern to be professionally published unless it has been through a separate tech editor.
How do you maintain your life/work balance?
I have the greatest husband in the world and his support and flexibility makes it possible to have this business. In reality, I need to do a better job of balancing, but I think that is true for most entrepreneurs. Any balance I do have is a result of having other activities and interests that also require my time including my church volunteer work and part-time ski instructing.
How do you deal with criticism?
I have always dealt with constructive criticism very well. It is the only way you can find ways to improve. However, general negativity and nastiness (often just for its own sake) I really have no patience for, so I easily dismiss it.
What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in knitting?
Figure out which aspects you really enjoy and focus your efforts there. Once I realized that teaching was my driving force, the business quickly became profitable and everything seemed “easier”. And know that very few people can support themselves in a life style they have become accustomed to in this industry.
The answer to Mondays post question is that I knit the larger swatch and my friend J.J. knit the smaller one. We took a class together and were working on swatches when J.J. looked over at my work and asked why I wasn't doing the same sample that she was? I said "I am". That's when I really learned how much gauge can vary between knitters. It's rare to sit with someone else and knit the exact same thing on the same size needles and with the same yarn so most of us rarely get to see the impact of gauge as it changes from one Knitter to the next. We see our own gauge changing between needle size and yarn weight. Those of us who teach often see it if we have everyone working with the same sample yarn but that's rare as we normally tell students to bring scrap yarn and appropriate needles to work with. Even very experienced knitters are surprised when I show them these swatches.
Oh and by the way J.J. is not an especially tense person. I'm often asked that when I show these swatches.
