Interviewed By Cyndi Tiedt

There is nothing like being interviewed to make you feel like a “real” designer. I started working with Cyndi Tiedt recently when I asked her to tech edit my next pattern (It’s called Raindrops and Wildflowers, and I’m releasing it in the beginning of July). She got the pattern back to me super quickly and had some really helpful feedback. If you are thinking of designing and need a tech editor Cyndi is the person you want.

Cyndi recently started a new series on her blog where she interviews some of the designers she works with. She kicked the series off by interviewing me.

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1. Where do you get your inspiration for designing?

I find inspiration in so many places. Sometimes a yarn will inspire me or a stitch pattern that I just can’t not use. I studied music in college and I’ve thought about doing a series of patterns based on operas.

2. What are your favourite items to design? Accessories? Garments? Toys?

Right now my ideas are mostly for accessories. Hats, cowls, and mitts are easier to design than sweaters, but I’d love to work up to some sweater designs.

3. What is your favourite design that you’ve made? Why? 

Currently I have only published one pattern: the Chevron Lace Headband. It’s free on Ravelry, and a delightful knit if I do say so myself. I’m working on a second pattern that I plan to release in July.

Link: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chevron-lace-headband-2

4. Do you prefer using textural stitch patterns or colour to highlight your design features?

Right now I’m favoring textured stitches. I’m always amazed at how much a single colour can bring to the table when paired with different textures.

5. If you were on a desert island and could only bring ONE project to work on, what would it be?

I believe the standard answer is a wedding ring shawl since this would take forever to knit. That sounds like a great option to me, especially since you wouldn’t need anything very heavy to wear on a desert island.

6. If there were a house fire and for some reason you had enough time to dive into your stash, but you could only grab ONE skein to save…..which one would it be and why?

I recently spun 575 yards of beaded silk in a mustardy colour. It was a pain to spin, especially with the beads, but the result is stunning! I don’t know if I can bear to knit with it ever (but if I do I will probably make the Aeolian Shawl).

The Quick 10:

1. Colour or neutral? Colour, but not too bright.
2. Cashmere or silk? Silk
3. Wool or alpaca? Wool
4. DPN’s or Magic Loop? DPN’s all the way!
5. Seamless or seamed? Seamless wherever possible
6. Straight or circular? Circular all the way
7. Continental or English? Continental
8. Wood or metal needles? Wood, except for DPN’s size US2 or under. Then I prefer metal.
9. Lace or cables? Lace
10. Socks or shawls? Both.