#GAL2016: Finished objects

The Indie Design Gift-A-Long 2016 is now in it's final couple of days, so if you have any projects that need to be added to the FO lists, head straight to the Ravelry group* and get them added! You have until 23.59 EST on Friday (31st December 2016).

I had no grand knitting plans for the GAL this year, knowing that I had lots of other projects that needed to be finished before Christmas; I did however, end up knitting one GAL-qualifying project, my rainbow hoodie that I showed you earlier in the month.

This hoodie was for the son of one of my daughter's nursery staff, and she had specifically requested rainbow colours and a pixie hood. I had looked through Ravelry and nothing had quite fitted the bill (especially as I wanted the hoodie to be seam-free to make it quicker to finish), so I had planned to design something, then November disappeared and the December deadline was fast approaching. I had another look through Ravelry and found the Rainbow Child hoodie pattern by Rebecca Newman (aka TinyLovely), which ticked alot of the boxes.

The original hoodie had an i-cord edging, which I totally ran out of time for, so worked a basic cast-off on all edges instead. I'd also planned to do the whole thing in the rainbow yarn, but as soon as I thought about the fact that the button band was knitted in the opposite direction to the rest of the garment I rethought that! I like the turquoise trim I finally went with (even if it did involve a last minute drive to a nearby town to find somewhere that stocked the yarn), it tones down the rainbow yarn a lot.

The other thing I changed was the shape of the hood: the pattern makes a standard fitted hood, which I changed to a pixie hood by knitting the hood a little longer than the pattern called for, and then joining the top of the hood using Kitchener stitch.

Overall, I enjoyed the knit. It was a little stressful at times as the deadline was a little tight (I finished the evening before I had to give the hoodie away), and the body is rather long. This hoodie has a lot of growing room, possibly too much in the length, but no parent really minds if clothes last longer than they size tag indicates

Pattern is Rainbow Child by Rebecca Newman, knitted in Stylecraft Wondersoft Merry-Go-Round in Rainbow (unfortunately I think this colourway be discontinued; Starburst is similar, but without the purple), and Stylecraft Special DK in Turquoise.

What have you knitted during the GAL?

*You will need to be logged into Ravelry for this link to work.

This post includes affiliate links. For more information, see my Disclaimers and Policies page.

#GAL2016: Meet Lisa Chemery

The Indie Design GAL* is finishing soon, with a little over a week to go (the craftalong finishes at 11.59pm EST on December 31st), but there's time for one last interview, so today I'm talking to Lisa Chemery.

********

Lisa Chemery is a French knitwear based in Germany. Lisa primarily designs children’s wear, with some of her patterns scaled to include adult-sized garments too, and her designs are wonderful! Vintage-inspired, Lisa’s designs feature simple constructions with beautiful details. My absolute favourite is Entrechat, which I have knitted four times and is my go to pattern for baby girls, features a peplum hem and an unusual variant of the raglan construction; it is simply adorable!

Entrechat by Lisa Chemery. Image copyright Lisa Chemery

Baby and Toddler Tiered Coat and Jacket by Lisa Chemery. Image copyright Lisa Chemery

When did you learn to knit?

My grandmother taught me the basics when I was about 7 years old (I still have that widening “scarf” in red bulky acrylic!)

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

In 2008, I found myself a knitter in the midst of a baby-boom and couldn’t find the kinds of kid garment that I liked, so I started coming up with my own designs. Soon after, I started offering a few patterns for sale on Ravelry and their success caught me by surprise. I feel so lucky to be able to do what I love for a living.

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I have been mostly designing with worsted weight yarn so far (with a few sport weight designs), but I am now starting to warm up to working with fingering weight. As far as the current pipeline: I am about to release the grown-up version of my Hyphen cardigan, then testing will start on a very cute worsted weight pinafore dress. But after that, I may release a few fingering weight designs in a row! Right now, I am working on a very vintage/romantic dress with lace accents that is worked in Quince & Co. Finch.

Hyphen cardigan by Lisa Chemery. Image copyright Lisa Chemery

What’s your favourite knitting technique?

I like I-cord finishing and short rows, and have really become obsessed with fair isle.

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I want to try st(eek!!)ing ;)

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

Soooo many! I love your designs actually :D Thank you!

Fluffy white clouds by Vikki Bird

Otherwise, let’s see… I have designs by Tikki Knits, Lyrical Knits, and Christal LK designs sitting in my cart right now! (I actually forgot to check out so I missed the GAL sale! But that’s ok. Even at full price, they are well worth it!)

Summer Festival by Georgie Nicolson (Tikki Knits). Image copyright tikki

Fractured fairy tale hat by Mary Annarella (Lyrical Knits). Image copyright Mary Annarella

Broadford by Christelle Nihoul (Christal LK). Image copyright Christal LK

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I used to knit a lot for Christmas but I don’t really have time to do that anymore and I don’t love the pressure to have everything done in time. I tend to knit things for people on a whim.

Lisa can found found on Ravelry as frogginette, at frogginette.com, on Instagram, also as frogginette, and on Facebook.

********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Amy van de Laar

The Indie Design GAL* has a couple more weeks to go, so if you're quick you could still fit in a last minute Christmas gift for someone special (or something for yourself if you're all set for Christmas). Today I'm interviewing the wonderful Amy van de Laar.

********

Amy van de Laar is a knitwear designer based in Ausstralia with an eclectic portfolio that features stranded designs, textured designs, hats, shawls, mittens and more. I first came across Amy when she launched her Paper Hats collection, a series of designs inspired by children's paper crafts; the styling of the collection is beautiful, and made me want to knit them all.

Paper Boat hat by Amy van de Laar. Image copyright Amy van de Laar

Multifaceted Mitts by Amy van de Laar. Image copyright Amy van de Laar

When did you learn to knit?

I learned the absolute basics as a primary school kid, but I hated it and never got beyond wonky garter stitch 'rectangles'. I got into knitting as a hobby at uni, and this time progressed from garter stitch rectangles to all sorts of mad projects, thanks to inspiration from Knitty.com and the Wellington City Library's knitting book collection. Norah Gaughan's book Knitting Nature blew my little maths-student mind!

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

I'm fussy and want everything I make to be juuuust right, so I usually end up tweaking bits and pieces when I work from a pattern. At one point I figured out how to make a pair of mitts based on my own colourwork chart, and then there was a lace scarf after that, and my designing kind of expanded from there. I got more serious about it a few years down the track, and revised my early patterns and started charging for them.

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I have a double-thick stranded cowl called 'Cinnamon Stars' that's in the final stages - it just needs a few more photos and a final edit. The other big thing I'm working on now is a secret unfortunately, since it's for a third-party publisher. It's going to be beautiful though, I'm so happy with how the lace is coming out!

What's your favourite knitting technique?

I'm torn between lace and cables. Both have so many possibilities! At the moment I'm really into graphic, geometric lace created with simple yarn-overs and decreases. I like it when projects just flow off the needles, so simple stitches combined in cool ways are my favourite.

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

Two-colour brioche! I have Nancy Marchant's book Knitting Fresh Brioche, and I want to start playing with swatches. I need to wait until January though, so I don't fall down a designing hole and neglect my deadline knitting or the GAL. I'd also like to get to grips with magic loop at long last.

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

I've been posting little collections of inspiring GAL patterns on my Instagram and Facebook, and fellow Aussie local Ambah O'Brien is represented quite a lot. She has some amazing colourblocked shawls, and her Mendia hat is super cute. For sock designs, check out Clare Devine - I'm knitting her Grellow Love socks for my first GAL project, although I haven't made much progress yet. I'm just past the toe of sock number one. ;)

Mendia hat by Ambah O'Brien. Image copyright Ambah O'Brien

Grellow Love by Clare Devine. Image copyright Clare Devine

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I'm actually not super big on Christmas, unless we happen to be hosting the family. I like to knit gifts occasionally for birthdays, or when someone special deserves a woolly treat - hats and scarves and cowls always seem to be well-received, especially when I consult with the person about the colour and the pattern. I do enjoy Christmas baking though - I like to give European favourites like panettone and stollen a try.

Amy can be found as baroquepurls on Ravelry, as AmyvdLaar on Instagram, on Facebook and at baroquepurls.blogspot.com

********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Sloane Rosenthal

The Indie Design GAL* is continuing over on Ravelry until the end of the year. The giant craftalong features the works of 335 designers, so there's plenty for everyone! Here's my interview with Sloane Rosenthal, a fellow GAL designer.

********

Sloane Rosenthal is new to knitwear design, but has so far created a collection of beautifully curated designs in a wonderful palette of jewel tones. In addition to designing knitwear, Sloane is a lawyer, mum and power lifter, based in North California, and describes herself as an ‘all-around-professional-tired-person’.

Hurricane Ridge Cowl by Sloane Rosenthal. Image copyright David Rosenthal

Jenny Lake by Sloane Rosenthal. Image copyright David Rosenthal

When did you learn to knit? 

I learned to knit after my older daughter, who is now five, was born. Both my mom and my mother-in-law are knitters, and my grandmother crochets, but I didn’t learn until I was an adult.

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing? 

I think I was drawn to designing for the same reason many designers have been: I saw a lot of beautiful patterns out there that were close-but-not-quite what I really wanted to be making and wearing. After a lot of varyingly successful modification projects, I decided to take the leap into designing my own garments and accessories. These days, I really appreciate the tangible, physical, math-driven nature of knitwear design as a counterpoint to my day job as a lawyer, where my work is very abstract and subjective.

What designs do you have in the pipeline? 

I just released my first sweater pattern, the Stinson Beach Cardigan, which is a cabled cardigan knit in Quince’s Osprey and Piper held together. It was my Rhinebeck sweater this year, and I confess I have barely taken the sample off since we photographed it. I have three secret sweater projects in the pipeline for release this winter and next fall, and I’m working on a second collection of accessory patterns in small-batch yarns for release next fall.

Stinson Beach Cardigan by Sloane Rosenthal. Image copyright David Rosenthal

What’s your favourite knitting technique?

Apparently, I have a thing for cables! I also really love stranded colourwork, although I’ve yet to publish any stranded designs. My favorite knits are in that sweet spot between “challenging enough that it stays interesting” and “not too fussy to work,” so I love to knit cables, texture, and colorwork patterns that feel rhythmic in your hands and have you wanting to knit “just one more row!” to see where the pattern is going.

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I’d like to design more with lace, and some shawls in the next year. I’d also like to experiment more with sweater construction, although I admit I find it hard to argue with bottom-up, seamed sweaters, which have a lot of advantages in fit and durability.

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye? 

I’m a big fan of Jennifer Dassau and Amy van de Laar. I think Amy’s cables are fascinating, and I love her photography style!

Refracted by Jennifer Dassau. Image copyright Jennifer Dassau

Paper crown by Amy van de Laar. Image copyright Amy van de Laar

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits? 

I have for the past few years, but this year I have some early February sample deadlines, so I’m doing less gift knitting than usual. For gifts, I’m a big fan of hats and cowls, which are always needed and can fit a wide range of wearers. For hats, I tend towards designs that have more inherent stretch, like ribbing or certain cable-based designs, that fit a wider range of wearers.

Sloane can be found on Ravelry and Instagram as skrosenthal, and her website is tightlyknitdesigns.com.

********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Ella Austin

The Indie Design GAL continues on Ravelry until the end of the year; if you'd like to join in, head over to the Ravelry group.* Today I am joined by another GAL designer, Ella Austin.

********

Ella Austin lives in Devon, UK, and primarily designs toys and accessories, with the odd item of children's wear or garment included in her portfolio. Ella's standout designs are stranded colourwork and I love her fairisle toys, especially Tawny Owl. Ella's most recent collection is called Colour and Line and is a beautiful selection of accessories featuring small colourwork sections that make them very distinctive.

Tawny Owl by Ella Austin. Image copyright Ella Austin

Delta Mitts by Ella Austin. Image copyright Emma Solley

Venn by Ella Austin. Image copyright Emma Solley

 

When did you learn to knit?

I learnt to knit from my mum and grandmothers as a small child - probably around 5 years old. I have always knitted ever since, although I feel that I only flourished as a knitter in my mid twenties!

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

I got into pattern designing by thinking of ideas that I couldn't find patterns for. I started figuring things out for myself and making notes as I went along. I quickly found that I loved designing!

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I've just released the final pattern from my Colour and Line collection. At the moment I'm mostly thinking about celebrating and enjoying it's completion - but there definitely are plenty more designs in the pipeline!

What's your favourite knitting technique?

Stranded colourwork! I absolutely love it - so relaxing and rewarding!

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

I'm pleased that Suzanne Stallard is joining in this year - she's a wonderful designer. Her Alfredo Gloves introduced me to stranded colourwork.

Alfredo Gloves by Suzanne Stallard. Image copyright Suzanne Stallard

 

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I only knit a very few Christmas gifts, not nearly as many as I would like to. My children always plead for more knitted toys!

Ella can be found on Ravelry, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. She also blogs at https://bombellablog.wordpress.com/

********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Kerri Blumer

The knit and crochet along portion of the Indie Desgin GAL is running in the Indie Design GAL group on Ravelry* and continues to the end of the month. Today I'm bringing you an interview with fellow GAL designer, Kerri Blumer.

********

Kerri Blumer works in the fashion industry by day and is an independent knitwear designer by night. I first became aware of Kerri a few years ago when she offered to help me edit the photos for my Rudi sweater, and have been following her work ever since. Kerri primarily designs small, highly textured, accessories, which are perfect for gift-knitting, as well as a small selection of flattering garments.

Dewdrop Mitts, image copyright Kerri Blumer

Silver Fir Shawl, image copyright Kerri Blumer

When did you learn to knit?

My grandma was a knitter, but I was too young to learn to knit when she passed. I still saw and appreciated her work - my mom still wears many pieces that my grandma knit for her, and it was several years after her passing that the last pair of slippers she had knit for us kids had finally worn through. I was always fascinated by her cable work, and I desperately wanted to learn how to make cables! I finally learned to knit about eight years ago during my freshman year of college. My mom knits a little bit, but hadn’t in a while so she put me in touch with a neighbor to teach me the knit stitch. I figured out most everything else via books or online tutorials and I haven’t stopped knitting (or cabling) since!

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

I studied Fashion Design in college, so designing started rather organically for me. I started altering patterns I was working on to better suit me, and that evolved into making things from scratch. For my senior collection, I included hand-knit details on all of my pieces, and included one hand knit top. I have yet to write the pattern for that actually, but I have plans to do so one day! Pattern writing came pretty quickly after college; I’ve always been math-minded and I love the challenge of grading a design across a range of sizes. Now I work as a Technical Designer as my day job, where I am dealing with fit, garment construction, and grading on a day-to-day basis. It’s great being able to come home and work on the more creative side of things too – sketching ideas, working up swatches, choosing the perfect yarn for a design. I think the best part of designing and pattern writing is watching projects pop up on Ravelry & the knitters looking amazing in their FO’s!

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I’m hoping to get two more accessory patterns released before the end of the year – the patterns are mostly written, I just need to finish up the knitting and photograph my samples! For next year, I am looking to expand further into garment design. I am currently working on a new sweater to match my newest design, Aguacero Shawl, and I’d like to release that early next year. Lately I’ve been releasing about one sweater per year, and I’d love to be able to increase that to maybe one per quarter. I always have so many sweater ideas and I’d love to start bringing them out into the world.

What’s your favourite knitting technique? What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I don’t think I can pick a favorite! I always love learning new things in knitting. There’s always something new to try out! I’d love to learn more cast-on techniques in 2017. I have a couple of go-to cast ons that I use all the time, but I’d like to increase my repertoire – sometimes, you know the cast on isn’t quite right for what you’re making, but you’re not sure what the right one is!

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

There are quite a few designers who have caught my eye this year! I’m still working a little bit on my shopping list, but here’s just a few who I love:
For shawls, check out Sarah Jordan of Knit/Wit and Amanda Scheuzger.

Leventry by Sarah Jordan. Image copyright Sarah Jordan.

Sagitta by Amanda Scheuzger. Image copyright Amanda Scheuzger.

For fun & quick hats & mitts check out Beverly S. of Yarn Intercept and Katy H. Carroll of Katinka Designs.

Middle School Mitts by Beverly S. Image copyright Beverly S.

Plummy Mitts by Katy H. Carroll. Image copyroght Katy H. Carroll.

For great sweaters, check out Meiju K-P and Hanna Maciejewska of Hada Knits.

Someday Sunday by Meiju K-P. Image copyright Meiju K-P.

Maisie by Hanna Maciejewska. Image copyright David Maciejewska.

And a few more of my favorites are: Emma Welford, Kristen Jancuk of MediaPeruana Designs, and Hunter Hammersen.

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I do occasionally knit Christmas gifts for friends and family members. I don’t usually plan out gifts, but sometimes I’ll realize that my current project is just perfect for someone I know, and I’ll tuck it away until Christmas! I love knitting fingerless mitts, and I always knit more than I can reasonably wear myself, so those are always great gifts for loved ones who appreciate handmade items!

About two years ago, my great aunt gave me and my mom the rest of my grandma’s stash after learning that I was an avid knitter. She knits here and there, but she thought that we might be able to use and enjoy it more. Among the many skeins, needles, magazines, and books, there was a pair of my grandma’s slippers – just needing a bit of darning at the heels and toes. I looked through the books to see if I could find a pattern, but came up short. So, I carefully looked at the construction and reverse engineered the design. Everyone got slippers for Christmas that year!

Kerry can be found on Ravelry and Instagram as kerriknits, and blogs at kerriknits.tumblr.com.

*********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Doreen Blask

The Indie Design GAL is ongoing on Ravelry, with the knit and crochet along portion already boasting over 600 finshed objects. If you'd like to join in, head over to the Ravelry group.* Today I'm bringing you an interview with Doreen Blask, a fellow GAL designer.

********

Doreen Blask is a knitwear designer who specialises in quirky accessories and toy designs. Her designs are bright and bold, with a bit of a sense of humour. I love her Hot Air Balloons Mobile, and Sally the Squirrel is really cute! She also has designs for several uniquely styled pairs of mitts; her Pointy Mitts and Black and White Mitts look really unusual and striking.

Top to bottom: Hot Air Balloons Mobile, Sally the Squirrel, Pointy Mitts, Black and White Mitts. All images copyright Doreen Blask.

When did you learn to knit? 

My mom taught me the basics when I was 5 or 6 years old. I haven’t stopped since.

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

Before my first nephew was born, more than ten years ago, I wanted to make something special for him, as I had a handmade cat that I got from my aunt when I was born. But I just couldn’t find patterns that were cute, easy, AND didn’t require an awful lot of sewing (I HATE sewing). So I made up my own pattern and got hooked :)

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I’m working on a new baby mobile design for a yarnie-designer-cooperation with a dyer from Australia and I also have two new shawl ideas.

What’s your favourite knitting technique?

Knitting in the round and German short rows :)

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I always wanted to try double knitting and hope I can bring myself to do it next year!

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

Loli Fox Design with her quirky mini knits and Slate Falls Press with the cutest kids patterns ever!

Henry's Letter Sweater, image copyright Slate Falls Press

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I make almost all my gifts myself. I knit some, but I also do photography. I love unique gifts and am lucky to have friends and family who never get tired of toys and knitted love :)

Doreen can be found on Ravelry as Mrsmumpitz, blogging at www.mumpitz.design, on Facebook, and on Pinterest.

********

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Christa Veenstra

 The Indie Design GAL is now at the end of it's second week, and the Ravelry group is getting busy! There are still lots of ways to join in; if you'd like to, head over to the Ravelry group.* Here's the fourth of my series of interviews with GAL designers.

********

Christa Veenstra is a crochet designer based in the Netherlands. Her designs are inspired by 1920s Art Deco, and feature striking motifs worked in bold colours. Her designs are beautiful, and can be used as bunting, interior design details or on clothing.

Thank you so much Vikki for having asked me to be part of your interview series. Let me start by introducing myself briefly. My name is Christa and I live in the northern part of The Netherlands. I studied English Language and Literature and I used to be a University teacher specialising in academic writing and presentation skills. I’m still using and working with the English language every day though. I translate and edit crochet patterns for publishers and of course I’m part of a wonderful international crochet community. Just over two years ago, I started designing and pattern writing, which very quickly led to my own crochet business TheCurioCraftsRoom. I love having my own business and I’ve met some wonderful, like-minded and generous people through it. It’s such an amazing community.

Crochet Peacock Tail Feather Coaster, image copyright Christa Veenstra

When did you learn to crochet?

I can’t remember not being able to crochet. I learnt it at a very young age from both my mother and grandmother. My grandmother especially was always crocheting, knitting or sewing. Just always making things and I can remember being spellbound by how quickly she could make a set of new clothes for my favourite doll. So naturally, I wanted to be able to do all that too. I can sew and knit but crochet is the craft I love most of all.

How did you get into designing and pattern writing?

A few years ago I had a burnout (or rather, to speak with Brené Brown, I unravelled to be able to have a spiritual awakening) then I lost my job and took all of that as a sign that I needed to change direction. So after a lifetime in academia, I switched to something unknown and uncertain. First I trained people who were overstressed and highly sensitive to become more mindful but then I felt it was important for me to make things with my hands. I picked up a crochet hook (again) and just thought let’s try and make a peacock feather. I’ve always liked the shape and colours and I have a bunch of them in my living room so I just designed one or two motifs. I listed the finished items in an Etsy shop and received many requests for the patterns so I started making those. And then I couldn’t stop designing peacock-inspired items. I guess I’m the peacock lady now here on Ravelry and on Etsy. I’m so grateful for all the lovely feedback I get on my work and for having been able to set up my own design business.

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

At the moment I’m looking into designing larger items like shawls or throws. I’d love to expand the range of patterns I sell and not all of them need to be peacock-inspired. I’ve almost finished a pattern for a scarf with join as you go motifs and I’m working on a commission, which I can’t tell you about yet because it’ll be published in the spring. I can tell you it’s something completely different and out of my comfort zone because it has a zillion non-peacock colours in it. Of course there will be new small peacock items too, like a pincushion and another large single feather motif.

What crochet techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I’d like to become more experienced in overlay crochet. I find that my long front post stitches could be a lot neater so I have to practise making those. And it would also be great if I could design some overlay crochet myself. Learning tapestry crochet is also on my list. I haven’t tried it yet but I’d love to learn how to make beautiful “drawings” with it.

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

You just have to have a look at the work of Tatsiana Kupryianchyk, the wonderful overlay crochet queen behind lillabjorncrochet. I know her personally and she is such a sweet and talented lady who always amazes me by the rate at which she published new designs. They’re always so beautifully executed and original.

Spanish Mandala Pillow, image copyright Lilla Bjorn Crochet

Christa can be found on Ravelry as ChristaVeenstra. Christa blogs at thecuriocraftsroom.blogspot.com and can also be found on Facebook (facebook.com/thecuriocraftsroom) and Instagram (@thecuriocraftsroom).

Peacock Feather Motif, Bookmark, Garland, "India", image copyright Christa Veenstra

********

If you want to find out more about the Indie Design GAL, start by reading my blog post on the event, or head straight to the GAL group on Ravelry.*

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Jenny Vangy

The Indie Design GAL is in full swing over on Ravelry. As part of the GAL I am interviewing a selection of my favourite participating designers. Here's the third in the series, an interview with Jenny Vangy.

********

Jenny Vangy is a mum of 5, who designs adorable knits for children, with the occasional knit for adults as well. Her designs are simple, with little touches that make them really special, such as a lace panel, or a little frill. One day I will get round to knitting myself her After the Ball cardigan as it is a such a versatile garment. She has also released a couple of hat patterns (The Reindeer Paw and Oh Christmas Tree) for charity, both of which would be perfect as last minute Christmas gifts.

After the Ball, image copyright Chloe Taylor

Reindeer Paw, image copyright Jenny Vangy

Oh Christmas Tree, image copyright Jenny Vangy

 

When did you learn to knit? 

Both my grandmas and my mom were avid crafters, and although I don’t remember learning to knit, I do remember knitting with all of them when I was very young. I crocheted a lot as a teenager, and really picked up knitting when I had my second son in 2010.

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing? 

When I was pregnant with my third son in 2104 I was sitting in church and the girl in front of me was wearing a darling blouse with ruffled sleeves. I sat there staring at it for the whole hour, and in the end decided that I could totally knit that, and thus Edith was created. Once my third boy was born I realized that the options for boys were limited, and my best bet was designing exactly what I wanted for my boys.

Edith, image copyright Jenny Vangy

 

What designs do you have in the pipeline? 

I’ve got a bulky collection in my mind that I want to create, knit all with local, hand dyed yarn. Other than that, I always have a bunch of patterns I want to create, but usually just pick the one that is appropriate for one of my kids at that moment.

What’s your favourite knitting technique? 

I don’t know that I have a favourite technique, but I do always love learning new things. Lately I’ve been trying to choose projects specifically so that I can try out new techniques, whether it’s as simple as a new cast on, or as complicated as a new sweater construction, or colorwork method.

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017? 

I’ve never done double knitting or brioche, and I plan to do at least one project of each this year.

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye? 

Oh, the GAL is so tempting to me. Every year I’ve stuffed my library full of new designs. This year I intend on knitting Kate Boswick's They’re Paisley.

They're Paisley, image copyright Kate Bostwick

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I have 7 sisters, and each year I knit a sweater for one of them. Besides that, I don’t always do a lot of Christmas specific knitting, I just knit a lot, all the time. If I don’t need the FO for a sample of a pattern, and it doesn’t fit one of my kids, I usually give it away to one of my 30 nieces or nephews.

Jenny can be found as JennyVangy on Ravelry and on Instagram as vangyknits. Jenny blogs at vangyknits.blogspot.com and has her own Ravelry group, http://www.ravelry.com/groups/vangy-knits-by-jenny-wiebe*

********

If you want to find out more about the Indie Design GAL, start by reading my blog post on the event, or head straight to the GAL group on Ravelry.*

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

#GAL2016: Meet Dana Gervais

As part of the Indie Design GAL, I have interviewed some of my favourite participating designers. Here's the second in the series, an interview with Dana Gervais.

********

Dana Gervais is based in Ontario, Canada, and specialises in designing bright, beautiful, eye catching socks that feature an abundance of colour and texture. Many of Dana’s designs reference popular culture, such as Dr Who, Sherlock Holmes and My Little Pony; I especially love her Rainbow Dash socks, with their bright rainbow stripes.



Sherlock Holmes inspired Moriarty Socks; image copyright Dana Gervais

Dr Who inspired Wibbly Wobbly Timey Wimey Socks; image copyright Dana Gervais

My Little Pony inspired Rainbow Dash; image copyright Dana Gervais

When did you learn to knit?

I learned to knit when I was about 7 or 8 years old from my Grandmother. She was an incredibly talented knitter and has always been my knitting inspiration.

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

Designing and pattern writing was an evolution for me. I started by heavily modifying existing patterns to suit my needs, then I started making my own designs from scratch. After many compliments and knitters asking me where they could find the pattern for something I made, I decided to start writing and publishing my designs. I started slowly at first, about 2 years ago I decided to treat it like a business.

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

I have so many projects on the go! I have partnered up with 2 subscription services and will be designing for them next year, I have two sock designs that will be featured in a book that is scheduled to be published in May and 2 other designs that will be featured in a book that is scheduled to be published in August. I also have 5 sock designs in various stages of production. I’m hoping to release at least 2 patterns per month in 2017.

What’s your favourite knitting technique?

I’m a fan of any kind of colourwork that doesn’t require me to knit with 2 different yarns at the same time. I’ve just discovered Roositud and I love it! It’s also known as Estonian inlay and it’s a knitting technique that allows you to embroider on the surface of the fabric as you knit it while only knitting with one colour of yarn. I have a couple of designs in the works that use this technique.

What knitting techniques would you like to try in 2017?

I have a few types of heels that I’m eager to try and maybe some unique gusset construction.

Which other GAL designers have caught your eye?

I’m lucky because I’m on the Pinterest team for the GAL, so I get a sneak peak at some of the designers and the patterns that will be featured. I’ve favourited some designs by Jane Richmond, Catherine Knutsson, Ambah O’Brien, Andrea Rangel, Virginia Sattler-Reimer – I feel very honoured and humbled to be in such talented company.

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I don’t usually knit Christmas gifts because the pressure of the deadline takes the fun out of it for me. Also, if I knit a Christmas gift for one person I feel obligated to knit for everyone. I do love to give the gift of knitting; I just prefer to do it for no reason and throughout the year instead of on one day. I often gift people socks (big surprise!), hats, mitts, shawls, cowls, dishcloths, and scarves.

Diagon Alley; image copyright Dana Gervais

Dana Gervais can be found as knitalot924 on Ravelry, Instagram and Twitter and at DanaGervaisDesigns.com

********

If you want to find out more about the Indie Design GAL, start by reading my blog post on the event, or head straight to the GAL group on Ravelry.*

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.

 

#GAL2016: Meet Susan Ashcroft

As part of the Indie Design GAL, I decided it would be nice to learn a bit more about some of the designers taking part, so over the course of the GAL, I will be posting interviews with some of my favourite designers. First up, we have Susan Ashcroft.

********

Susan Ashcroft is a well-established designer, having designed patterns for over five years (you may have seen her TGV shawl, Quaker Yarn Stretcher and Hogwart's Express shawl, which have been popular on Ravelry for years). Her approach is often mathematical, using a percentage system to design shawls that can be knitted in any yarn weight and at any gauge, with the aim of making the most of the yarn you have; last Christmas I knitted her Love Train shawl in some beautiful worsted weight yarn and it is now my most worn hand-knitted item. Susan's knits are simple and relaxed, and let the yarn do the talking; her blog is also an excellent source of tutorials and knitting tips and tricks.



TGV; image copyright Susan Ashcroft

Quaker Yarn Stretcher; image copyright Susan Ashcroft

Hogwart's Express; image copyright Susan Ashcroft

When did you learn to knit?

Not until I was about 13 - I taught myself from a book I got from the library.

How did you getting into designing and pattern writing?

I’ve been modifying patterns as long as I’ve been knitting - with TGV I came up with a slightly different construction so I thought share it and it all took off from there.

What designs do you have in the pipeline?

A collection inspired by my recent trip to Murano.

What’s your favourite knitting technique?

Mosaic knitting because it’s such an easy way to get colour effects. 
Often a specific yarn is my starting point and I try to find what will work best for that yarn to “do right by the yarn”.

Do you knit Christmas gifts? What are your favourite gift knits?

I give knitted items to friends/family throughout the year. If you come to dinner at my house, you’ll probably go home with a knitted item, so usually people get something different at Christmas.

But when I do make presents I tend to make smaller items like hats and gloves (I never have any of those “in stock”; they always seem to get adopted as soon as they’re finished).

Image copyright Susan Ashcroft

Susan Ashcroft can be found on Ravelry as stitchnerd, and blogs at stitchnerd.blogspot.com

********

If you want to find out more about the Indie Design GAL, start by reading my blog post on the event, or head straight to the GAL group on Ravelry.*

*Note that you will have to signed in to Ravelry for this link to work. Joining Ravelry is free and Ravelry is an excellent resource for knitters and crocheters.