Numbers aren't everything - 2
CD KAL and other updates
Thank you so much for your warm response to my CraftDoodling Designs KAL suggestion. A whopping 18 of you decided to participate. I appreciate the support and trust so much. 💗
If you had signed up, you should have received a Slack Invite and details. Hope to see you all in the Slack Group soon. You have until Nov 05 to make your initial post.🤗
Also, there were a couple of really last minute sign-ups. So I have decided to keep the form open until Nov 05, just in case. So if you’ve missed earlier, please feel free to jump in now.
NUMBERS AREN’T EVERYTHING - 2
Last week, I had written my thoughts about what to look for when deciding about knitting a pattern from a smaller designer who doesn't have a big social media following. Read post here: Number’s aren’t everything.
So many of you had shared your thoughtful responses here 💌 and in Instagram/Facebook. I decided to compile some of those points and add to the original list.
If you are knitter out there, looking to knit patterns that make sense and is functional for you, here are some things you can look for…..
Note: I have written this list from the knitters’ point of view. But I do hope this list is also useful for a knitwear designer looking to enhance their pattern making process.
While working from a pattern, make note of the style of writing. Do you have to work hard to understand most of what is written? For a technique or terminology you are not familiar with, have you got some helpful links or explanations?
Are the sections and layout of the pattern easy to follow and knit from?
When you choose to work your first shawl, first garment or first brioche, something you feel like you might need more support, it is better to work with a trusted smaller designer who might be more involved in their pattern and is available to provide support.
In case of a bigger designer, you might feel the lack of a personal touch but more quality and professionalism can be expected to be built into each pattern as well as the experience and knowledge accumulated by catering to a larger audience.
While there are no strict standards and regulations for knitting pattern writing, patterns should follow a somewhat universal way of writing that can be understood by a large majority of the target audience. Ultimately, availability and access to well-written knitting patterns should be everyone’s interest in the industry. Look for and support designers who put in the work.
FEATURED PATTERN
Niyat Pullover is a top-down drop shoulder pullover that incorporates mix and match body and sleeve sizing.
You can find the pattern here.
OTHER THINGS I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN
I am excited to be teaching my Foundational Brioche class to yet another group of knitters this week at Fillory Yarn.
Found here on substack: Yet another case for breaking free from social media
A couple watercolor sketches I made earlier this week. Hope you enjoy.
4. 📚Just finished reading : Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding.
Until next time,
Kavitha. ♡
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I was just wondering what Niyat might mean and found the answer as you've providing this in your details of the pattern. :) Thank you. It's a beautiful sweater design Kavitha, and I'm interested to see the yarn you used was Knit Pick's Pallette. The range of colors of that yarn line is quite incredible!