As a knitwear designer, I think a lot about the girl who will be knitting my patterns.  In the beginning this girl was imaginary to me because I didn’t actually know anyone like her!  I saw her as a hip knitter, who would seek out the coolest most fashionable patterns, and make them seamlessly work into her stylish wardrobe.  Her knitted projects would be super fun and well thought out with yarn choices and details to make them her own awesome unique style.  She would also be a happy girl with a big smile on her face because, of course, she found knitting and loves it so much!

So when I met Carrie through Ravelry, I instantly knew that that was her!  She has an amazing collection of FO’s, which are too awesome to not be shown off as much as possible.  I asked her if she would do an interview for my blog to share her love for knitting with the rest of you, and hopefully inspire you too! 

All of the images of Carries hand knit items below link to her project page on Ravelry, where you can find the pattern she used and knit it up too!  Enjoy!

“I’m an optimistically cheerful gal that is excited about life! I appreciate a kind person and try to laugh as often as possible. Knitting is my favorite hobby! I love being able to create things with my hands and get inspired by fellow knitters. Here’s to sunny days and happy knitting ya’ll!” -Carrie

When did you learn to knit and who taught you?

I learned to knit in 2005 and taught myself. I found resources online that helped walk me through the how-to’s and haven’t stopped since! My grandmother Carlson and Aunts Polly, Norma, Clara and Marilyn all knit and have won numerous awards at the New Mexico State Fair for their knitted ponchos and blankets. I feel lucky to be connected to such accomplished knitters and have inspiration from my family.

Who is your favorite person to knit for?

Myself! I love knitting things for my family and friends and often do. I just happen to really enjoy knitting for myself since it is easy to tailor projects to my shape like a sweater or shorties. I really like knitting monsters and stuffed animals for my niece and nephew. They are usually pretty amazed that I was able to create something so cute.

What are your 3 favorite knitting patterns that you’ve made so far?

1) Abyssal : Wonderful pattern to follow and the lace repeat is easy enough to remember. It is a versatile shawl  depending on what needle size you use. I used a larger needle to get a looser, open more drapey finished project.

2) Ruffle Shorties : Love this pattern! Soft, comfy shorties to look cute in around the house. The possibility for color combinations is exciting!

3) Sophia : Newly knitted and loving it. It is a great piece with an easy lace pattern. I am really liking the color!

What is your favorite yarn?

My favorite yarn right now is the Rowan Purelife Revive (photo credit: http://yarnsbydesignpa.com) The colors are so interesting and it comes from recycled fibers which is pretty awesome! It is versatile because of the fiber content and has a really nice drape. I also like to go to thrift stores on the weekends and hunt for sweaters to rip apart and re-purpose into new knitting projects. I have been known to let out a scream when I find that perfect sweater to reuse.

What is your favorite stitch?

My favorite stitch is good old stockinette stitch. Sorry nothing fancy here. I love the simplicity of a stockinette stitch sweater and yet, the versatility of having this as a foundation stitch for your knitting. Once you get this stitch down, you can make just about anything.

What is your favorite knitting book?

I really love Rebecca Danger’s book “The Big Book of Knitted Monsters“. If you ever need to smile, just pick it up and start flipping the pages. Not only are the projects a blast to knit and easy to follow but the stories for each monster are just precious.

If you could design the “perfect” sweater, what design elements would it have?

Oh such a good question! My perfect sweater would be easy, chic and comfortable. I love soft loose sweaters that you just want to live in but also love the look of a nicely tailored one. It would be a balance of both, clean, tailored lines with a bit of soft looseness for comfort.

Here are some of Carrie’s other awesome hand knit sweaters!:

What environment do you like to knit it?

I like to knit while watching TV but I pretty much knit anytime I can! There is not a day that goes by that I don’t touch a knitting needle at some point. Knitting while you watch TV is a great way to stay productive and catch up with your favorite shows.

In case you are wondering who that cute little owl is, you can get the pattern for him for free here!  He’s in my queue too 🙂

What do your friends/family think about your knitting habit?

My family and friends are very supportive of my knitting habit. I think they love it since they are often the recipients of my little knitted gifts. Who could complain about that?!

How could you not encourage someone who makes adorable hats like this?  LOVE it!

What do you feel is the most awesome part about knitting?

The most awesome thing about knitting is how you can touch someones heart by giving them a gift you made. A sweet pair of socks, a great hat, a warm little scarf, all made by you, and given to someone with love.

Check out even more of Carrie’s fabulous hand knit projects here.  Thanks Carrie! -Lauren