Laura (laurachandler6…), Mari Lovesyarn, & NimrodVern
Congratulations! Please contact me at yarnonthehouse@gmail.com to collect your prizes.
It's so much fun when I meet new friends and knitters via Ravelry or my blog. Today's guest is a long time YOTH follower and mutually I have been following her blog for awhile now. This little knitting world of ours is very grand (with 3 million Ravelry members now!), yet so small at the same time. Meet: Andrea Sanchez of the sweet Life on Laffer blog. She's not only a knitter but also a hooker (is that what they call themselves?!). Andrea has recently started releasing some really adorable baby knitting patterns, since the birth of her first son. Isn't he just a cutie?! I had the chance to do a written interview with Andrea. Enjoy!
1. Please start by telling us a little bit about yourself and what you do?
Can I first just say how excited I am to be on your blog. I've been a follower since the very beginning!
Describing myself is always difficult. I feel like I wear a lot of hats. I'm a wife and new mother. I teach kindergarten as my day job. I'm also a knitter in a variety of aspects. I knit as a hobby. I do quite a bit of sample knitting for a few different designers as well as yarn companies, and now I've taken on self-publishing my own designs! I blog about my life and knitting at Life on Laffer and I cohost a knitting podcast called Wool Junkies. I can also be found on Ravelry as peatmoss83 and Twitter here.
2. You just recently released the Little Fisher Pullover. Where did your inspiration come from?
It started out with me wanting to make my son a special sweater for his first Christmas. I wanted something that had a "big boy" look to it, but that could still have a modern feel (and that he wouldn't be embarassed by pictures of it 20 years from now!). I really love the look of fisherman style sweaters and the idea of this just grew in my mind. I initally looked for a pattern to match my mind's sweater but I couldn't find one that I was fully happy with. I eventually justs figured I would try to put the design together myself. I was really afraid I wouldn't be able to render a finished piece just from this mental image but it turned out exactly as I had hoped!
3. I've followed your blog for awhile and know that you've worked for some "famous" designers out there doing test and sample knits. What made you want to start designing yourself?
I had kind of been toying with the idea of trying to write my own patterns for quite a while. I tend to feel inspired a lot. I write down ideas in a notebook. I sketch, I swatch, then I manage to get busy with all the other knitting that I do and my ideas fall to the side. I think I've come to a point in my knitting that I had to just get out there and give it a shot.
4. For budding new designers out there, what's the one piece of advice you have?
Believe in the process. It will take some time to work out the kinks, but by following a process, it is definitely more manageable. Also, find a really good tech editor!
5. What will be next for you? Do you have new designs in the works that you can share with us?
I just released another children's design, the Neighbor Hoodie. It's a round yoke, hooded pullover worked mostly in garter stitch with a little pocket. I am in LOVE with this new pattern and the yarn I used (The Fibre Co. Road to China Light). I designed this sweater to be unisex and am hoping to see it knitted by others in some really fun colors!
I also have another design that I'm working on right now and hope to release by the end of the month. It's long-sleeved, but knit with fingering weight yarn, so more of a transitional winter-into-spring piece.
A lot of my inspirataion for designing has come from my son. I really hope to produce stylish and modern garments for boys that have thoughtful details. I have a lot of ideas, sketches, and swatches, so I'm just going to try to keep the momentum up!
6. Why do you knit?
I am definitely a progress knitter. I love to knit but what really gets me to finish a project (and quickly) is the finished piece.
7. When did you learn to knit and who taught you?
I learned to knit around the end of 2009. My mother had tried to teach me before (she taught me to crochet over ten years ago) but I had a really hard time getting engaged in knitting. I joined Ravelry in 2009 and took part in a swap. My swap partner sent me two hanks of Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande in a beautiful blue color, along with the pattern for a cabled scarf and I HAD to have it. I went and bought needles that very night. I could remember how to make a knit stitch but I couldn't cast on, purl, let alone cable. I Googled things like "how to purl" and watched a lot of You Tube videos. It took me all night to get the first 4" of the scarf done. But after that, I was hooked.
8. If you were to knit and live anywhere in the world, where would you knit and live?
I would want to be back in California. I've been living in Ohio since 2007 but boy do I sure miss the sunshine!
9. What's been your worst knitting disaster?
It would have to be my first crocheted shawl (so technically not knitting). When I first joined Ravelry and found my LYS, I bought a book of crocheted shawls by Kristin Omdahl. I found a beautiful shawl that I wanted to make and was done in fingering weight alpaca. I went out and bought something like 7 balls of a mercerized cotton and tried to crochet this shawl. It was terrible! The shawl was too small because of course I didn't ever think to swatch. Up until that point I had only ever crocheted afghans. The yarn had zero drape so it looked stiff and terrible. I ended up ripping some of it out and then I may have just thrown the whole thing away to hide my shame. To this day I'm not sure why I thought it would be a good idea. I've never worn a shawl in my life!
10. And last but not least, if you were to be drinking your favorite drink while reading my blog, what would it be?
Having a 6 month old in the house, I would have to say I have never been so grateful for coffee!
Andrea is offering THREE followers a chance to win a PDF copy of her darling Little Fisher Pullover:
Plus, Cephalopod Yarns has graciously sent over two skeins of their Traveller yarn for ONE follower to win along with their pattern. That's enough yarn to knit up to the 2T size!
I would like you to do the following if you would like to be entered into this week's giveaway:
1. Read over the rules if you have not done so already.
2. Leave a comment on this blog post by the end of Sunday, 3/24/13. Andrea wants to know, when it comes to designs for both adults and children, what particulars do you look for (ie., sizes, yarn weights, certain styles, etc)?
I'll randomly pick the winners in 2 weeks and post the results along with the new giveaway, so be sure to check back. Good luck everyone.
Sincerely,
Ve
141 comments:
What I look for is completely dependent upon what my mood is. For the most part I look for interest. I hate to be bored, and I'm willing to try just about any new skill at least once. I tend to go for small-gauge for myself (fingering, light fingering), and fingering-dk for children. I don't like to make sweaters and such from anything larger.
On the opposite side of that coin is the no-brainer stuff that I churn out when I don't want to have to bother with carrying around a pattern.
I look for special details, non-rigid yarn guidelines, and clear instructions!
I look for a pattern that catches my eye, more than anything else.
I LOVE this giveaway's pattern. I have a bunch of friends who have just had babies, and it would be an awesome knit to do for one of those kiddos!
I think that overall, I mostly pay attention to style. The design has to catch my eye. I like simple designs, with an eye-catching detail. Perhaps a simple hat with a nice cable? Or a simple garter shawl with a nice lace border. Something along those lines.But I do like as detailed a description as possible, just so I know what I'm up against before I commit to buying the pattern :)
I like classic and vintage/retro styles. so, that's what I look at first. Next I look at sizes.
what i look for in a design tends to change with the seasons & my moods. in winter i'm drawn to cosy looking knits and i tend to go mad for cables. in summer i love anything cropped or lacy. when browsing ravelry generally anything in a gorgeous grey or mustard will catch my attention.
I look for interesting details, like cables, pockets, lace trim.
I like to use DK or worsted weights, mainly.
Your designs are very cute!
(Goodstuff on Rav)
I like to knit larger garments top down and seamless as I don't like seaming. But having said that once I start to seam I get great satisfaction out of doing it right.
But I also love socks!
Its seimple, I look for what I like and what set of skills are needed, if I feel like I want something I know how to do already or if I am feeling ampitious and want to learn a new skill!
Awesome pattern, beautiful yarn, as always a great giveaway. Thank you!
Clear pattern instructions. Yarn weight, style etc changes depending on my mood and who I'm knitting for.
I look for a pattern that fits the yarn I have in my stash.
I totally need this for my little one :)
I look for nice techniques, beautiful finishings and of course, the final look of it!
I look for clear, easy to read instructions, a quick knit, but with the details I'm interested in at that moment. For instance at the moment I'm going through a cable phase for my 3 month old little boy as I preparefor his first winter, so this fisher and pullover would be perfect for that.
When I am knitting something for my boys, whether its socks (an often requested item from my son) or a sweater I look for ease. I want something that knits up quickly and easily. They want something mommy did just for them and don't seem to care whether it's intricately stitched. And it definately needs to be something they can put on themselves, over their huge noggins.
Its the style that draws me first, but then I really like when a pattern has very detailed instruction, like what type of increases were used, etc. Thanks for the chance :-)
So glad to see Andrea featured on this blog! I have been a follower of hers for a looong time!
As for patterns, I want the look to be classic. Something that isn't going to go out of style by the time I've finished knitting it! Great instructions and finishing details always hook me as well!
I look for a pattern that is age appropriate, simple, but with style. Of course, "simple" can be different for different people.
I really like this little guy sweater and would love the pattern and the yarn to make it. :-)
Zowmom on Ravelry
I look for classic patterns and clear instructions. It also helps if I can make the project without breaking the bank.
I definitely look for a wide range of size options - especially if I'm paying for a pattern, I want to know that I can use that pattern again and again, usually for gifts for different people. Other than that, it's all about whether I like the design - personal taste.
ShadowAP on ravelry. This pattern is gorge!
I love getting the chance to find all these new knitting blogs!
I look for raglan shaping (because I hate seams) and something that will hold my interest, i.e. not inches of just stockinette.
Thanks for a giveaway!
I like classic designs with a modern twist. LOVE the giveaway!
Yep, I'm with everyone else! What I look for varies quite a bit. I don't like to be bored so something about a pattern (even the simple ones) has to keep my attention, even if it's just my yarn choice. I tend to go on sprees with some things; lately I've been wanting cables all the time but just this last week it's a swirl sweater (using stash yarn (woo hoo) and a new sweater-knitting technique).
When looking through patterns, I look for clear instructions, fit and style that suits my taste and if the designer has used yummy squishy yarn that I like too :)
For children I look for simple yet very functional designs. Nothing too fancy, wide next to get over their head and options in machine washable yarn. For adult patterns I like lighter weight yarns and classic styles. If I'm going to take the time to knit it, I want it to be in style for a long, long time :)
I am not the most patient person in the world so I like knits that used worsted yarn and bigger needles. LOL.
I look for written instructions in addition to charts, because at some point I will want/need both. I also look at the construction -- top down is my favorite. And I like classic styles that will look good on all ages and not go out of style. Then I can let my yarn choice add that little something extra.
Love your patterns!
If I can picture a specific person or child wearing it, then I fall in love with it. I usually welcome new techniques. Gotta love a good challenge!
In terms of yarn, I have been really into fingering weight, but sometimes, there's nothing like a bulky yarn project for instant gratification!
Love your patterns, by the way!
I look for the details that are simple but make a piece unique.
this baby sweater is too cute for words.. maybe it's got something to do with the baby too!?
I look for patterns where I can learn one new technique. That it feels like a challenge without being overwhelming, and I get to learn something new!
I look for simplicity and flexibility. I like things to look more complex than they actually are.
I don't know if I've ever really thought about it. I look for things that I think are so beautiful, that I could not buy in a store. I love cables. But, I still like a pattern that is fairly simple and not frustrating to knit. I want the construction to make sense and be intuitive.
I like to learn something new for most projects (though I usually have at least one piece of mindless TV knitting going on, too). I also like to use fine yarn. I love the look, and it's very economical!
It really depends on the mood I am in. Sometimes I am looking for a no brainer, something to do while tv watching, etc. Other times I have a specific yarn to work up and look for the perfect pattern for it, no matter what it is.
Great giveaway, thanks!
When choosing a pattern, the first thing I take note of is whether the yarn weight suits the particular style of the pattern. If I don't think it does, but I like the pattern enough, I will consider working on modifications.
I like to try new things, like how a cable looks in a pattern &so so.
First, I must tell you how adorable the baby sweater is! I want to knit one, and I don't even have a 'small person' to give it too!
I think that feeling is probably what drives me to purchase a pattern, the "must knit that!" factor.
I see page after page of patterns in magazines to which I respond, "What were they thinking?" And while I realize that there is a person for every pattern, I frequently scratch my head and wonder why they would waste the trees (to publish the magazine) on another "only-looks-good-on-a-size-1-body-color-bloc-dress" that very few people will knit.
The baby pattern is a perfect example of what sucks me into a project -a pattern that is so cute/stylish/timeless that I can't resist it. In this case, I want one in MY size!
When I am knitting for my family, I look for v-neck or other necklines that allow the person to get their big head through the hole. My family has big heads, and it is rare that I find a round neckline that accommodates them. I will make modifications, I just prefer not to have to. I'm considering trying steeking to allow for a short zipper.
For the rest of the world, I love cables. I'll knit most anything with cables. I prefer worsted or larger yarn, solely because I like to finish projects quickly. However, I do like working with DK and sport. I don't like knitting on needles smaller than size 4 because it makes my hands hurt.
I love patterns that have lots of sizes!
When I knit for me, I almost always choose cardigans. I should probably work on that. Other than that, I tend to try to choose things that are classic, with a good fit. Except for babies, when cuteness wins every time.
What a nice giveaway. I look for classy items that can be seasonal but not out of style within the year. I really like working some lace stitches into my projects. I prefer a lighter weight of yarn as I live in California (around the San Francisco Bay Area) so it doesn't get terribly cold to have to have heavy sweaters.
I often look at needle/yarn size. I love the look of delicate laceweight stuff, but in the time it takes to make a dress for my daughter out of sock yarn in precious stolen minutes, she'll grow out of it! I prefer knitting for kids in worsted or aran weight.
This pattern is adorable!! It would be a perfect knit for my little man to wear on his first birthday. Thank you for the giveaway!
What a generous giveaway!
I have to say that what I look for really depends on who I'm making a piece for, but one thing I gravitate towards first is minimal seaming. When I'm done knitting something, the last thing I want to do is that putzy stuff like sewing it together. I'm a huge fan of raglan, in the round patterns. Plus it's much easier to try it on and make adjustments as you go with this type of pattern.
Because I live in such a warm climate, I like to find things that can be done in fingering weight yarns. Definitely nothing above DK weight. :)
When I look for patterns I usually look for something that has an interesting detail so that I can learn something new, practice a new technique or otherwise branch out from my "norm"
Cute pattern, my nephew would look adorable in this!
Clear instructions! I hate worrying that I have misunderstood the pattern.
Love the sweater, perfect for my grandson. ;)
What a beautiful baby! The sweaters look beautiful, too. When I look at a pattern I want something that will be interesting to knit but also allow me to carry on a conversation while knitting. For a baby it needs to be cute but also have some practicality (no turtlenecks for young babies, "easily" donned and taken off)
Great sweaters-it's so hard to find cute boy things! I look for flexibility in sizes and yarn weights-I love when there's a big enough range of sizes (with detailed measurements and stitch counts) that I can adapt to a different weight if necessary.
In garments I usually look for ease of assembly or even better patterns that do not require any assembly.
When you finish knitting it you must be able to wear it is my motto! :)
(blocking is allowed).
I look for patterns that catches my eye and has good instructions.
So cute! I am looking for lighter weight knits as we are moving to Florida. I also tend to be drawn to cardigans.
I rarely knit for children. When I do, it's generally a gift for a newborn so I'm generally looking for cute and quick to knit.
For adult patterns. my tastes are pretty variable. Sometimes I'm wanting to fill a hole in my wardrobe. I do find I like rich jeweltones knit up in cables and textures in the fall and winter. This time of year I'm drawn to bright colors and lace.
I love to knit for kids, but since they out grow it, i like quick and easy.
for adult patterns I love sweaters and shawls, and perfer the lighter weight yarns living in So Calif
Fracksmom
Mostly I just look for patterns that catch my eye. I'm drawn to details like cables, lace patterns, and nifty collars.
Clear instructions but most importantly, a finished picture of the garment on an actual model, and by this I mean, the entire garment should be photographed. (front and back if possible) and not just the top part as happens in some patterns. also, a diagram of the finished garment with all the measurements is very helpful.
love the pattern. it is just adorable. thanks for a great giveaway.
I look first for style--would I (or my recipient) look good in it?
And then I look at the yarn weight. If it's a big sweater in bulky yarn, I'm not going to look good in it. But if it's a big sweater in fingering weight, I'm probably never going to knit it, either! :)
Worsted or DK is best for me and DK or sock for kids' stuff.
I love knitting garments, but it's tricky finding a pattern. I always look for something flattering and stylish--if I'm going to spend weeks knitting something, I want it to look great on me and be something I'll love forever! A fresh twist on a classic style is always nice. ♥
Love how cute that sweater is! The yarn color is super darling, too.
I look for an interesting pattern that provides a wee bit of a challenge, but nothing that requires massive amounts of attention -- mostly because I find I have small amounts of time when I can concentrate before I'm interrupted by the kidlets. But sometimes no brainer patterns are nice so I can actually accomplish something in a reasonable amount of time!
I first notice the style of a piece - is it something I would like to wear/have?. But then, looking more deeply at the pattern, I look at what kind of techniques are being used, yarn weight, sizes, etc. I guess bottom line though, what I look for is defined by my motivation.... searching for the right pattern for a specific yarn in my stash, or something that was requested by a non-knitter, for example. It could be anything really... ;)
FlyingMonkeyHQ on Rav
When looking for patterns, I like to choose something that would hold my interest but that is also a classic style. For myself I prefer to knit in fingering to DK weight yarns; for little ones up to a heavy worsted. I love cables, texture and unique construction.
The first thing I look at is whether or not I would wear it (or if the person I am knitting it for would wear it) then I look at sizes, normally if its not offered in a variety of sizes then I'm not interested. I'm normally not too worried about yarn weight (unless its lace then I really have to love the design or it has to be small lol)
I look for design features and overall 'look' of the piece. I'm fond of cables and lace, so anything that incorporates either of those will catch my eye. I'm also rather conservative so anything that's really 'out-there' get's moved to the 'not in this lifetime' pile.
lindaran (on Rav)
I look for the type/guage of yarn and how clear the instructions are when selecting from one of the billion patterns that catches my eye!
I've been reading Andrea's blog for a long time now, and I'm so happy she's been designing little boy patterns. I'm definitely looking for patterns for my son that look like classic, adult clothes.
Practicality, how often it will get worn if it is a larger item, also when it comes to baby knits I want something quick and that will use up stash yarn, oh and it has to be able to go into the washing machine lol
rosebob on ravelry
I look first at color, with a preference for modern color and styles. I like vintage styles but usually not the vintage colors that can look so outdated. Next on the list is clear instructions and clear yard details including total yardage that is so often missing yet crucial for correct yarn substitution. I also like designs with shaping.
I like interesting patterns. If I have yarn of that weight in my stash, all the better!
I'm all about style! Though it is always nice to be able to knit the style you want in the size you need!
Katie
Rnmama on ravelry
I look at seamless patterns mainly, and then special fitting techniques. I love simple sophisticated things.
Easy to follow instructions, I hate anything to complicated, I also like to knit flat so old fashioned baby patterns are perfect for me.
reiki on ravelry
What piques my interest varies a lot, but I never could resist a good challenge! I love interesting new techniques.
I love this sweater! I tend to knit more baby sweaters than adult sweaters, because they are smaller, and lets face it, the kid is going to look cute no matter what! For an adult sweater, I'm more likely to use worsted just so it will knit up a little quicker.
I love for style and yarn weight
I've never knitted a sweater before, so this is all new territory for me...but I'd love to try!
I love twisted stitches and this pattern has me intrigued.
I think I would prefer to knit sweaters in worsted or Aran weight as it would for me suck all the pleasure out of knitting to do a sweater in fingering weight.
apple380 on ravelry
Mostly if I like the look of a design, I will want to make it.
I especially like simple with something special/unique/interesting about the design.
I don't usually like things too fancy.
StaceyKnitsIt
ravelry
I mostly look for designs that are pleasing to my eye and not above my skill level. Sometimes I am looking for a specific yarn weight,but not usually.
Love the cute baby sweater. How adorable. I would love to knit it for my sister when she has a baby.
I look for simple designs with a few interesting features--cables, a hoodie, etc. I also like a pattern which I can memorize so I can knit more freely.
I look for something different, like something that you couldn't find in a store very easily. But when browsing, I'm also looking at what sizes are offered and the yarn weight in case I already have a yarn in mind or something like that :)
Caitlin
I usually look at style and yarn weight to match to intended owner of the piece. Then I look at instructions, the easier it is to understand the better.
Style is what always grabs me - that's what happened here! I just love that sweater - and an adorable baby model always helps ;) what a cutie!
It's asking a lot, but lately I've really been liking patterns that have options for different yarn weights. Lots of size options are also a big plus, particularly in knits for children.
As long as the pattern looks snazzy, i'm up for it.
Multiple sizes is really important because if I find a pattern I really like I want to be able to make it for anyone. I tend to look for classic designs that I can customize a bit so the pattern can get lots of use.
greyowl (ravelry id)
I like simple designs which feature an unexpected twist. A pop of color. A stitch detail. An unusual cable.
And I'm in the midst of a fingering weight bender! But like all good benders, that's subject to end/change at a moment's notice!
When it comes to design I really like when it has some kind of unique construction or detail - so that it doesn't just look nice, but also interesting and challenging to knit.
I tend to stash yarn now and choose patterns later, so when I'm looking at designs I usually have a specific yarn in mind that I want to use. Also, since I live in FL I am always looking for relatively light weight projects. Hey, Andrea - can't believe we just "met" the other day, I saw your sweater model this morning, and now I find you here tonight! Love your baby sweaters!
I haven't knitted too many big clothing projects but I normally look for something that stands out from the crowd of other patterns. I like something with some detail work so I don't get bored with the pattern. I tend to like worsted weight the best because it doesn't seem to take as long. I have done some baby things in chunky and fingering weight as well.
Thanks for the giveaway! (Rav: CraftyMommaKnits)
For sweaters I look for ones with set in sleeves as I hate raglans, which is so prevalent. I look for cardis over pullovers. I like classic styles. I look for simpler smaller sized sox patterns because to get gauge I need to use size 00 - cables are tough at that size. I love knitting no-seam cowls as my on-the-road projects so keep an eye out for those patterns.
hotknitter on rav
I look for shaping, interesting details, and clear directions.
I look for patterns that will be the kind of style that I am likely to wear a lot. I see lots of things that I think are pretty, but just not the kind of thing I'm really going to wear much. I'm a jeans and t-shirt kind of person, so I look for things that fit into that simple kind of style. Plus I look for patterns that are specific and detailed and well written
I like clear instructions and lots of sizes
The style is the first thing that will catch my attention. Then I will consider my skills.
Rav: zenitude
First thing that normally grabs me is a good picture of the pattern. Next I like to look at how the pattern is written, and if I am capable of doing it. I will also usually take a peak at ours finished work to see how they usually turn out for others.
I don't want to knit something that looks like it came off the rack. I like customizable, textures, minimal seaming. And charts.
The Little Fisher Sweater is cute, but the baby inside it is adorable! I want to squeeze him!
I love the pattern. I usually knit things in worsted weight
I mostly look for eye catching photos of the FO. Also, i get bored with endless rows stockinette, so I look for pattern stitches or detail panels to break up the monotony.
For adult stuff I try to avoid yarn weights over worsted, and for kids/baby anything over sport weight. I'm a process knitter, so I don't want to finish to quickly.
When knitting for myself I avoid anything that looks bulky, as I wear a 1X and don't need help looking big.
It all depends on my mood, but it has to be something that looks interesting/elegant and can easily be adapted to different yarn weights.
This is such an adorable sweater! I just happen to know a youg fella turning two soon....
I look for multiple sizes, with each descripbed by charts or written instruction; a good schematic of the design; and a really good photo (or three!) of it on a model. I'd want the yarn weight given in CGOA terms, as well as wpi -- I don't have time to research these on yarns by the brand name! I sure hope this info is helpful (and that I can win this giveaway!).
My mood is constantly changing, but I usually like to have something on my needles using a fine gauge yarn and small needles and something at the other end using a heavier weight and larger needles. Now that we are moving into summer, I find that I am being drawn to the lightweight flowy type sweaters for myself or my daughter and shawls or socks. But I have also been eyeing up some toys for heavier weights and more instant gratification.
I definitely look for style and versatility first. If it will fit into my lifestyle and wardrobe then it's good to go. :)
I look for a pattern written for natural fibers, especially wool. I like a clever construction and typically go for DK weight yarns or larger. Thanks for the giveaway!
Thank-you for this giveaway! My daughter is in labour right now & soon our little Grandson will be born. This little sweater looks like something I'd love to make him!
Rav id: istitchfast
I have pretty eclectic tastes, so pretty much if it appeals to me I will then look at sizes.
Jennifer (jenb69 on rav)
I am fairly new to sweater knitting for adults, but have knit quite a few children's items. I prefer top down, seamless knits for kids. I don't mind seaming the sleeves, but other than that I prefer not to seam. I also LOVE patterns that grow up to a six year size so I can get a lot of use from them. With my own daughter, as all kids, she passed through infancy so quickly and it's at age two that growth starts to slow. I like to knit something she can wear for awhile. Love your designs & darling little guy!!! Thank you! Stephanie
Style and easy knitting. Love simplicity.
patmom on Ravelry
I look for something that's hard to see in advance: clear instructions! If there are comments saying that they couldn't figure something out, I wouldn't want to use that pattern. I also love seamless.
Lovely design! I look for patterns matched to my skill level but also give me a push to learn some new technique!! Love many patterns which are photographed in red or grey! Clear instructions are a must! Love designs which include waist shaping too.
I usually look for seamless designs. I tend to procrastinate seaming!
Thank you for another lovely giveaway!
I usually look for designs that are interesting but not too challenging to knit.
I definitely always look for the size options, it's always a plus if a pattern is useful for a large range of sizes.
I generally look for something that catches my eye first then look for sizing options.
I look for patterns that are somewhat challenging. I love fair isle patterns and aran knits. I'd love to make this sweater for my grandson who just turned one.
Feminine and elegant styles catch my eye. But easy to read patterns with detailed instructions are a must.
As far as patterns go- I like cables and textural patterns. I like less variagated colorways too.
When looking for patterns I like new techniques or stitch patterns together than are new to me, I love knitting as a way to learn. Weight of yarn is not as important to me.
I pretty much look for anything that catches my eye. I like simplicity, clear instructions in a sport weight yarn.
I look at yarn weight if I'm knitting for myself, because I like staying at aran weight or under to avoid adding bulk. But when it comes down to it, what really makes me want to knit a pattern is the charming details!
I look for wearability. Something I could wear often without it screaming arts & crafts.
Monkalicious on Rav
I look for style, I like patterns that look good and could be easily done.
I look for unique details that nonetheless make for a timeless and classy garment.
I haven't started knitting sweaters yet, but the ones I have my eye on are mostly fingering through worsted weight (I don't think I have a the patience for a lace weight sweater and I don't like the results with bulky) and fairly plain but with some details that would make them more interesting to knit than just miles of stockinette.
Clear instructions is key! Sometimes a definition of how to do a stitch isn't enough- a picture or detailed description is needed. (for weird or not used as often abbreviations)
Would love designs for bigger kids. So hard to find a good pattern that ISN'T for a baby!
I look for a classic design with a twist. and NOT size 2 needles. Babies grow quickly, I prefer a bigger yarn- at least a size 5 needle but bigger is fine too!
I like Pullovers- buttons look pretty but aren't practical for little ones- at least they didn't work for me. I prefer a pullover any day.
The giveaway pattern is perfect. Stitch interest is great! thanks for the chance!!
I tend to lean towards the classic/timeless styles for both children and adults. Minimal finishing on children clothes...not so picky on adults :)
ravid -txtaurus
Thanks, Amy
I love unique construction and stitch patterns. If I see something that catches my eye as being different from everything else I find, then I have to cast on right now!
I look for unique elements that you just wouldn't be able to get in a storebought garment, while still being totally wearable.
I look at a pattern and go with my initial reaction....I can do this or It would be a little more challenging...so not this time. For take-along I do simple baby blankets or blocks that do not require 100% attention.
When I'm looking for a pattern, usually I already have an idea of what I want - pullover/cardigan, neckline, patterned or simple stockinete, so I try to find a pattern to fit those characteristics. I also tend to look for patterns with a specific yarn weight in order to spend some of my stash.
I like patterns that have a really finished, professional look and modern sensibilities (no boxy drop-shoulder pullovers please) - darts, hems, shaping, and little details go a long way. If I can use stash yarn, that's even better/
I look for garments with a classic style that will look good for years and years.
I usually go for something I love the look of, that I won't get bored of, that has some little twist.
And Oh! that grey is spectacular!
I think I mostly just look for an intriguing pattern - I love cables in cardigans that are along the edges and cuffs. I also prefer baby sweaters in either worsted or fingering weight yarn. :)
raelynne01 on Rav
I look at a pattern & visualize how it will fit me or the child I will make it for.I am taken in by color too.
Rinebird. On ravelry
Since I'm expecting with my 2nd, I have really taken to children patterns that have a great design and that will work or have instructions for a lot of sizes. If my son likes a sweater, I tend to make him a few extra sizes in other colors he likes. I hope to do the same with the baby.
great giveaway! Gl to everyone :D
I like patterns that are classically styled but with a quirky wee twist. Something that will stand the test of time but has a bit of interest.
The color of patterns is one of the things that will attract me the most! I know. Weird! Then, of course, the look. The weight of the yarn is also a criteria. I really like fingering! Thank you for the great contest!
I start with the style. Depending who I'm making it for, I want a varying degree of fuss. After that, I go to yarn weight. I may be trying to stash bust, or I might just need a break from whatever other project I am currently knitting.
love the pattern! Love the yarn!
I look for interesting style, good fit, and clear instructions. I would consider myself an advanced knitter but hate having to decipher poor instructions.
I'd love to make this adorable sweater in that luscious yarn.
Clear instructions and that the pattern is developed so that it looks a little more grown up on the grown up. But it would be fun to knit a sweater on all 4 of the men in my family that are the same pattern. LOL
I mainly look at the style. But for children's clothing I also look for a pattern that has a variety of sizes - because my little one is growing so fast, I might not make the pattern before she outgrows it.
Post a Comment