Hi, I'm Clare Mountain-Manipon. I am a knitting pattern designer and teacher. Through my blog posts, educational resources and course, I will show you how to confidently design and sell your own knitting patterns.
Love your “waxing lyrical”! I definitely find your work inspiring and interesting. Not only are you incredibly knowledgeable and have good taste, you’ve got a wonderful, cheery personality. Just super top notch 😊
@bonniewerner412115 сағат бұрын
Just great, love the dive into your designing process and details of your WIPs! Thank you.
@QuratAhmed-wu6ph19 сағат бұрын
I am loving these videos ! They keep me motivated to post my progresses everyday I recently opened up my own Insta page because of this 😃!
@theknittingburrowАй бұрын
Your podcast is really lovely, I enjoy it a lot! I am currently knitting on a tone of baby knits, I am pregnant with my second son... but I am starting to crave some "me" knits too! All my compassion for bed time, it's nice to find a way to feel like you are doing something for yourself at the same time! Yay for sock knitting in the dark!
@sistermountainstudioКүн бұрын
Thank you so much! I'm thrilled to hear you're enjoying the podcast. Congratulations on your pregnancy! Baby knits are so fun, but I totally understand the need for some "me" knitting too. Do you have any plans of things to make for yourself?
@QuratAhmed-wu6phАй бұрын
Your podcast was very inspiring today ! Like how you managed everything with having your own projects running while knitting from other designers. I have my own planning going on, I am addicted with knitting socks but now I am trying to get into knitting some hats, and sweaters. Your amazing podcasts always push me to pursue more ! Thank you:)
@sistermountainstudioКүн бұрын
Thank you so much! I'm glad it inspired you. It sounds like you have some exciting projects lined up-good luck with the hats and sweaters!
@bevabberley1524Ай бұрын
Look forward to the release of your tank and cardigan 😊
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
Thank you so much! The tank is out now and you can find it here: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/albers-5
@KnitDesserts2 ай бұрын
Your designs are beautiful! I also love the idea of a bright scrunchie for summer!
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
Thank you so much! The scrunchies are super fun and a great scrap buster.
@EldenwoodCraftАй бұрын
I’ve really enjoyed listening to your thought process on your projects and yarn choices. Your designs are lovely and I definitely have my eye on the grosgrain slipover when it comes out.
@carolgraham60973 ай бұрын
Beautiful!!! Very original and made with love!
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
Thank you so much!
@amywalker95534 ай бұрын
What was the beautiful background when you were showing your sock wip? ❤
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
It's the rug in my bedroom 😊 A very special car boot sale find!
@stitchesbystacey4 ай бұрын
Right side up!! No wonder this wasn't working for me - many thx!
@lyudmylataranets81024 ай бұрын
I am exciting what beautiful structured fabric can be created based on knit nd purl combination. From the recent classics - eter or ester sweater by petiteknit. I also like shaped half brioche stitches. Lomg time keep in mind your west❤
@sistermountainstudioКүн бұрын
I completely agree. I love combining knits and purls to create interesting stitches. Esther is such a classic!
@anniegatz4 ай бұрын
Thanks for all of your amazing content! I’m working on my first knitting design, and found some of your blog posts on pattern layout and free tools to be invaluable! As I watch this, I am working on swatching for my next design - a top down t shirt with little pops of mosaic colorwork - I was again inspired by your recent video about creating your own stitch patterns. It’s been so fun!!!
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
I am so pleased to hear this - I'm so glad the resources have helped you! How is your t-shirt going?
@anniegatz23 күн бұрын
@@sistermountainstudio I put the t-shirt on hold and decided to enroll in your Sweater Design School ;) so now working on a drop shoulder before diving back into my raglan T (I had gotten hung up on grading the increase rates to ensure the arm holes weren't down to the belly button on the larger sizes).
@the_knitchen4 ай бұрын
Love the wheel 😂 I’ve been working on my Evanescence Cardigan by Joji Locatelli!
@sistermountainstudioАй бұрын
Haha, I'm glad I'm not the only wheel-loving one! That's a beautiful cardigan. What colours have you chosen?
@the_knitchen12 күн бұрын
@@sistermountainstudio I’m so in love with the design! I’m only using four colors for mine: white; a light, ashy grey color; an icy blue; and a lavender/violet shade of purple ☺️
@patriciagammeter51124 ай бұрын
Hi Clare, Loved your podcast, unfortunately not knitting, but ironing while watching! Made the job go much faster 😂 I am impressed with your (usual) monogamous knitting methodology - How do you do this?! I have multiple WIPS on the go, most often because (i) There is an issue (or I simply don't like what I'm knitting and don't yet know how to move forward); (ii) A scrumplicious skein or new project tempts me away; (iii) I need different projects depending where I am living (between 2 countries) and for when I'm traveling. I discovered Knitsonic's BuJo project page, which is helps to keep my projects on track as well as to problem solve - bonus: all my knitting projects are in my BuJo as well! Which Spinning Wheel do you use? I found one linked to Instagram, but I'd rather not subscribe to Insta... Regarding Lang's Jawoll yarn: Lang is a Swiss brand, specifically Swiss-German; Jawohl means 'Yes', or 'Certainly' and adds stress to the simple 'Ja' meaning yes; often used as 'Yes sir!' 'Wolle' is the German word for wool, so I am assuming that Jawoll is a combination of the above. To note, the 'w' in German is pronounced like a 'v' 🙂 If there are any (Swiss-) German speakers here, they might like to comment as well! Socks... ah, my first love! I was going to send you the link to MDK's Paddy Lyons' article on 'rabbit ear' toes, and how she fixes them, which is how I now knit my 'wedge' toes. Much nicer than the sharp edge prevalent with Kitchener Stitch grafting. In Switzerland/Germany, you will often find the rounded toe method, which I think works really well if using the same yarn as for the rest of the sock. I still prefer the 'wedge' toe method (toe-up/cuff-down) when using a different yarn for cuffs/heels/toes. Here is a link to Lauren's 'A Bee in the Bonnet' that has a great round-toe pattern: www.abeeinthebonnet.com/blog/how-to-knit-a-round-toe-two-ways-toe-up-and-cuff-down/ The socks in the pattern are lovely too, and in a colour that would compliment your wardrobe! Looking forward to seeing more of your new drop-shoulder pullover! I have plans for 12 socks, 4 sweaters, and 4 blankets in 2024 - one of them has been on the needles since before I took your Sweater Design Course in September 2022 - probably because it hasn't yet made it into my BuJo... I can see how the Spinning Wheel could be useful in getting through all these projects! PS: I'm in the restaurant car in a train in Switzerland, and the waiter just said, "Jawohl" in taking a customer's order 😉 PPS: Now that I've responded, I shall continue knitting my socks (pair #3 so far in 2024)
@sistermountainstudioКүн бұрын
Thank you so much for your lovely message! I'm glad the podcast makes ironing more enjoyable-whatever works, right? 😂 Thank you for the info on Lang's Jawoll yarn-it's always interesting to learn the background of the names. Your plans for 2024 sound ambitious and exciting! Best of luck with all your projects, and happy knitting on your socks-pair #3 already, impressive! I bet you already have more done now.
@sylvestraborealis83034 ай бұрын
I love your mosaic crochet blanket, it looks great, the monochrome effect is very classic. I'm working on a similar blanket at the moment and it's a slow project, worked in between others. I also like the colour of the Eva cardigan. ❤
@abielvins43974 ай бұрын
So inspiring!!! It's just so lovely to find out what you've been up to and hear about all your musings!! Adore the scrunchie and the idea of using leftover yarn and making a bunch!!! My favourite idea is the spinner + pomodoro!!!! OMG - I agree this will be a game changer! Thank you so much!
@inknit27674 ай бұрын
You’ve inspired me to knit an Eva cardigan
@tinamarieperry28844 ай бұрын
I love the sweater and scrunchie
@MaryBethKelso4 ай бұрын
Congratulations on starting this podcast! I tuned in over my breakfast then picked up my yarn and hook. (Yes, hook--who am I?) I'm waiting to hear about some recent design submissions, so I'm taking a knitting break after all that swatching. I recently did a stash sort and had lots of odds and ends, so I started a crocheted Welcome Blanket. It's also some inspiration for my crochet students at the senior center.
@joycezzz1004 ай бұрын
Your knitting is amazing ,but I only knit from the bottom up. So please have some knit. I love the lime green sweater.
@mariamarfil16204 ай бұрын
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️
@jessmakingit5 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing Claire. I don't have a strong preference for top down or bottom up. I have things about both that I like or don't like as much. Here's the short list. I like top down to have a really nice stretchy collar edge, however, I dislike flipping the sweater body round & round once I get to the sleeves. I like top down because sometimes I like to have all the challenging bits of a yoke right at the beginning of the project and then have some easier knitting toward the end. However, sometimes I like it the other way around so that I can use sleeves sort of as a swatch. I really like knitting sleeves first, then joining to the body of a sweater and have some of the challenging or more interesting knitting toward the end. I do find that I like sweaters knit bottom up easier for me to fit myself. I can easily visualize size alterations from bottom up, vs top down. I also find that visualizing shaping much easier to execute in crochet first. I think that's because I can just take my hook out and lay the piece flat to see where I'm at more easily. Once I get the shaping sort of laid out in crochet, it is usually pretty easy for me to transfer that to knitting. On the flip side, I find it easier to try on a top down garment before it's completed. I like bottom up for hats that are knit and hats that are top down for crochet. I'm fine with either toe up or cuff down for socks. Socks are great no matter what kind of construction. I feel the same about mittens. They are my comfort knitting and when I try out new stitches I usually have either a sock, mitten, or hat on the go, rather than making a square swatch. I will use the small project as a basis for the swatching because they help me to see how the stitch will play out over smaller distances, as well as over a few increases or decreases. By using accessory projects as swatches I naturally encounter those requirements. Second most important to me, knitting through the accessory sized project lets me know if I enjoy knitting that stitch pattern over a longer time than a swatch. If I don't enjoy the process of a stitch pattern over a hat, there's no way I will enjoy it for a full sweater, shawl, or blanket. If I am going to knit a large enough swatch to measure this amount time spent, then I figure I might as well have a finished or half finished project. If I work a sock or mitten, and don't carry through, I put the item in the "mitten" basket inside our door and the grandkids will grab anything of similar size. They don't care if they match if they are cold. LOL 🙂 Side note: I'm still studying the lessons from Sweater Class.
@sistermountainstudio4 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for your comment! It's great to hear about your approach to knitting and how you find value in both top-down and bottom-up constructions. Your strategy of testing out stitch patterns on smaller items before committing to larger projects is very smart! I'm also so pleased to hear you're still working through the Sweater Design School lessons. Keep going, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance with the course.
@carlahill23325 ай бұрын
I know it's not a popular belief, but I really love brioche knitting. Anything brioche just looks super comfy and classic.
@sistermountainstudio4 ай бұрын
Brioche is gorgeous - so squishy and comforting! I need to do more of it though, as I'm not confident designing with it yet.
@chelle62005 ай бұрын
For me, it is topdown 🙂
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
It is so practical, isn't it?
@sylvestraborealis83035 ай бұрын
I absolutely love the triangle back neck on the purple cardigan. I'd like to test knit it when available. ❤
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Yay! I love that feature too. Are you signed up for my test knitting email list? I'll notify you as soon as it's ready.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
💬 Let's Chat! Do you prefer knitting top-down, bottom-up, or does it depend on the project??
@jhenderson22865 ай бұрын
For vintage patterns - bottom up is normal and I like it as I can adjust needle size and therefore gauge as I reach the important bust and shoulder areas, if needed. But for modern patterns definitely top down since I don't want to knit miles of stockinette only to find some sort of problem at the yoke section!
@jhenderson22865 ай бұрын
Hi Claire, could you consider removing the 'clicks' please?
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Of course! I'll do that in my next video.
@jhenderson22865 ай бұрын
Oh, thank-you! I'm really enjoying these videos :)@@sistermountainstudio
@QuratAhmed-wu6ph5 ай бұрын
Depends on project 😊 but I think I am more comfortable with top down.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
I think I'm with you on that - my preference tends to change depending on the project.
@louisegallagher76125 ай бұрын
I'm inspired! Thanks so much Clare, this has given me a better understanding of how I could use a mood board and I love the great tips and advice.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Brilliant! I'm so pleased to hear that. Happy moodboard-ing!
@woollymammothfibres5 ай бұрын
I love technical knitting chat. It’s a whole new world to me! This is glorious and I’m only halfway through! ❤ thank you!
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
This means a lot - thank you so much!!
@user-td1qw7fp1u5 ай бұрын
I love the vest and the blue tone colouring. The design pattern is dramatic. Love it.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
I'm so pleased to hear that! I had a lot of fun with this one 🥰
@tjbuttsful5 ай бұрын
Crocheting a blanket🙂. "Waltz of the Flowers"
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
I just googled this pattern, and wow! That's an heirloom piece, for sure. Beautiful!
@tjbuttsful5 ай бұрын
brilliant.Thanks Clare.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it 😊
@3RowsBack5 ай бұрын
So inspirational, adding this to my 2024 must try list 😁
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Yay! Let me know how it goes
@woollymammothfibres5 ай бұрын
This was fab, really enjoyed it. I’m encouraged to give it a go just for fun!
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Do it! I bet you could come up with something really cool
@tinamarieperry28845 ай бұрын
Thank you for taking us through your process. I'll try to design a knitting stitch from scratch for 2024.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
So lovely to see you, TinaMarie! I'd love to see how it goes for you 😊
@tinamarieperry28845 ай бұрын
@@sistermountainstudio , I will definitely keep you updated.
@cece_tee5 ай бұрын
This is so interesting and helpful! Loved watching and learning. Thanks! ☺️
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
You are so welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful 🥰
@abielvins43975 ай бұрын
Yay!! So glad you're doing this, Clare!!! A treat to look forward to every month - with a notepad to take tons of notes and a nice cup of tea! I love your new designs and all the details you share about your processes. Thank you so much x
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
That's brilliant! I love the idea of us all sitting down for a cuppa together. Can't wait to share more with you, Abi 😄
@carolynpredmore51535 ай бұрын
I am also usually a monogamous knitter. It means I finish more things and forget less. I am finishing a dress that is a mashup of a Henley top and an increasing rib skirt. I’m using 2 bought patterns but am inspired to create/write my own pattern for something similar
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Yes, that is definitely a benefit of being a monogamous knitter. I also find that I get very "locked in" on a certain project, so it's a chore to stop knitting on that and do something different. Your dress sounds amazing! I love the idea of a Henley-style dress.
@marygehling34665 ай бұрын
Loved your first episode Clare! I’ll look forward to seeing more in the future. I’m a pretty monogamous knitter as well, but at the moment I’m just finishing up a Cloud sweater in Isager Eco soft and silk mohair by PetiteKnit and have a Jenny cardigan in Isager Alpaca 2 and silk mohair on the needles. I am working on a drop shoulder design of my own, which I’ll force myself to write up once I’m over a case of COVID😅 Can I plug how truly informative your Sweater Design class is? Well, I just did and mean it whole heartedly. I struggled along as a self taught designer for years before your class and really found exactly what I needed in it. ❤ I think your Sunny Lime Eva cardigan is going to be amazing and will go with so much! I’m also less of a color work knitter (style wise) but I really found inspiration in your textured color work sample and your finished vest.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Oh no! Sorry to hear you have COVID. I hope you're not feeling too rough. And thank you!! for your kind words about Sweater Design School. You've perfectly articulated why I do this - so many struggle trying to piece it all together, and I love the idea of having a hub where they can learn everything they need. Thank you so much, Mary!
@paivimetsojoki65775 ай бұрын
Lovely to see you on KZread. Your vest design is very tempting. Vests in general are. Montpellier slipover is on my needles atm.
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Ooh, I'm so pleased to hear that! I'm so excited to wear mine properly. And that slipover is gorgeous! I really like November Knits' style.
5 ай бұрын
Such a great video Clare, your vest is gorgeous. One to add to my Raverlry queue. That Lime colour really suits you too. 😘
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Thanks so much! I just cast on and I'm absolutely hooked. The colour brings me a lot of joy!
@karliesimring51925 ай бұрын
I love your newsletter & videos so excited to subscribe to your channel x
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Ah, I'm so happy to hear that! I'm excited to share more with you all.
@nicolanoller92645 ай бұрын
Nice to meet you, Clare! Very interesting to hear your techniques and recommendations. As for me, I’m knitting a modified version of the Hide and Peek Shrug by Florence Spurling - one colour, mock honeycomb stitch in the honeybee colourway of Eriu yarn. A straightforward knit to watch podcasts with. 😊
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Ooh, I haven't seen that pattern before, but I just looked it up and it is lovely! Great silhouette, too.
@the_knitchen6 ай бұрын
Yay! It’s so cool to see you on KZread😊 I’m currently working on finishing up my second sample of a new sweater design (thanks to Sweater Design School, of course🙃).
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Hooray! That's so cool, Elizabeth. I can't wait to see!
@QuratAhmed-wu6ph6 ай бұрын
love love love your slipover ! Your first episode was amazing with your beautiful radish cardigan. Your video was full of inspiration and motivation, and also I noticed your vision board in the back, it looks great especially with the set up and the sketches of your sweaters. Looking forward to the next vid :)
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Thanks you so much! I'm so pleased to hear that. I'm a big fan of this board - it sits behind my desk and keeps me inspired (and on track!) while I'm working. I'm so glad I did this, as I didn't have a space like this for a long time.
@terrydavid46546 ай бұрын
You’ll be just great! Share your courage? We all need it. ❤️
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Sending you heaps of courage! Thanks for the encouragement 🥰
@inknit27676 ай бұрын
So happy you’ve started a podcast!
@sistermountainstudio5 ай бұрын
Yay! Me too. I don't have many IRL knitting friends, so it was a lot of fun to sit and talk about knitting for a long time, haha.
Пікірлер
Love your “waxing lyrical”! I definitely find your work inspiring and interesting. Not only are you incredibly knowledgeable and have good taste, you’ve got a wonderful, cheery personality. Just super top notch 😊
Just great, love the dive into your designing process and details of your WIPs! Thank you.
I am loving these videos ! They keep me motivated to post my progresses everyday I recently opened up my own Insta page because of this 😃!
Your podcast is really lovely, I enjoy it a lot! I am currently knitting on a tone of baby knits, I am pregnant with my second son... but I am starting to crave some "me" knits too! All my compassion for bed time, it's nice to find a way to feel like you are doing something for yourself at the same time! Yay for sock knitting in the dark!
Thank you so much! I'm thrilled to hear you're enjoying the podcast. Congratulations on your pregnancy! Baby knits are so fun, but I totally understand the need for some "me" knitting too. Do you have any plans of things to make for yourself?
Your podcast was very inspiring today ! Like how you managed everything with having your own projects running while knitting from other designers. I have my own planning going on, I am addicted with knitting socks but now I am trying to get into knitting some hats, and sweaters. Your amazing podcasts always push me to pursue more ! Thank you:)
Thank you so much! I'm glad it inspired you. It sounds like you have some exciting projects lined up-good luck with the hats and sweaters!
Look forward to the release of your tank and cardigan 😊
Thank you so much! The tank is out now and you can find it here: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/albers-5
Your designs are beautiful! I also love the idea of a bright scrunchie for summer!
Thank you so much! The scrunchies are super fun and a great scrap buster.
I’ve really enjoyed listening to your thought process on your projects and yarn choices. Your designs are lovely and I definitely have my eye on the grosgrain slipover when it comes out.
Beautiful!!! Very original and made with love!
Thank you so much!
What was the beautiful background when you were showing your sock wip? ❤
It's the rug in my bedroom 😊 A very special car boot sale find!
Right side up!! No wonder this wasn't working for me - many thx!
I am exciting what beautiful structured fabric can be created based on knit nd purl combination. From the recent classics - eter or ester sweater by petiteknit. I also like shaped half brioche stitches. Lomg time keep in mind your west❤
I completely agree. I love combining knits and purls to create interesting stitches. Esther is such a classic!
Thanks for all of your amazing content! I’m working on my first knitting design, and found some of your blog posts on pattern layout and free tools to be invaluable! As I watch this, I am working on swatching for my next design - a top down t shirt with little pops of mosaic colorwork - I was again inspired by your recent video about creating your own stitch patterns. It’s been so fun!!!
I am so pleased to hear this - I'm so glad the resources have helped you! How is your t-shirt going?
@@sistermountainstudio I put the t-shirt on hold and decided to enroll in your Sweater Design School ;) so now working on a drop shoulder before diving back into my raglan T (I had gotten hung up on grading the increase rates to ensure the arm holes weren't down to the belly button on the larger sizes).
Love the wheel 😂 I’ve been working on my Evanescence Cardigan by Joji Locatelli!
Haha, I'm glad I'm not the only wheel-loving one! That's a beautiful cardigan. What colours have you chosen?
@@sistermountainstudio I’m so in love with the design! I’m only using four colors for mine: white; a light, ashy grey color; an icy blue; and a lavender/violet shade of purple ☺️
Hi Clare, Loved your podcast, unfortunately not knitting, but ironing while watching! Made the job go much faster 😂 I am impressed with your (usual) monogamous knitting methodology - How do you do this?! I have multiple WIPS on the go, most often because (i) There is an issue (or I simply don't like what I'm knitting and don't yet know how to move forward); (ii) A scrumplicious skein or new project tempts me away; (iii) I need different projects depending where I am living (between 2 countries) and for when I'm traveling. I discovered Knitsonic's BuJo project page, which is helps to keep my projects on track as well as to problem solve - bonus: all my knitting projects are in my BuJo as well! Which Spinning Wheel do you use? I found one linked to Instagram, but I'd rather not subscribe to Insta... Regarding Lang's Jawoll yarn: Lang is a Swiss brand, specifically Swiss-German; Jawohl means 'Yes', or 'Certainly' and adds stress to the simple 'Ja' meaning yes; often used as 'Yes sir!' 'Wolle' is the German word for wool, so I am assuming that Jawoll is a combination of the above. To note, the 'w' in German is pronounced like a 'v' 🙂 If there are any (Swiss-) German speakers here, they might like to comment as well! Socks... ah, my first love! I was going to send you the link to MDK's Paddy Lyons' article on 'rabbit ear' toes, and how she fixes them, which is how I now knit my 'wedge' toes. Much nicer than the sharp edge prevalent with Kitchener Stitch grafting. In Switzerland/Germany, you will often find the rounded toe method, which I think works really well if using the same yarn as for the rest of the sock. I still prefer the 'wedge' toe method (toe-up/cuff-down) when using a different yarn for cuffs/heels/toes. Here is a link to Lauren's 'A Bee in the Bonnet' that has a great round-toe pattern: www.abeeinthebonnet.com/blog/how-to-knit-a-round-toe-two-ways-toe-up-and-cuff-down/ The socks in the pattern are lovely too, and in a colour that would compliment your wardrobe! Looking forward to seeing more of your new drop-shoulder pullover! I have plans for 12 socks, 4 sweaters, and 4 blankets in 2024 - one of them has been on the needles since before I took your Sweater Design Course in September 2022 - probably because it hasn't yet made it into my BuJo... I can see how the Spinning Wheel could be useful in getting through all these projects! PS: I'm in the restaurant car in a train in Switzerland, and the waiter just said, "Jawohl" in taking a customer's order 😉 PPS: Now that I've responded, I shall continue knitting my socks (pair #3 so far in 2024)
Thank you so much for your lovely message! I'm glad the podcast makes ironing more enjoyable-whatever works, right? 😂 Thank you for the info on Lang's Jawoll yarn-it's always interesting to learn the background of the names. Your plans for 2024 sound ambitious and exciting! Best of luck with all your projects, and happy knitting on your socks-pair #3 already, impressive! I bet you already have more done now.
I love your mosaic crochet blanket, it looks great, the monochrome effect is very classic. I'm working on a similar blanket at the moment and it's a slow project, worked in between others. I also like the colour of the Eva cardigan. ❤
So inspiring!!! It's just so lovely to find out what you've been up to and hear about all your musings!! Adore the scrunchie and the idea of using leftover yarn and making a bunch!!! My favourite idea is the spinner + pomodoro!!!! OMG - I agree this will be a game changer! Thank you so much!
You’ve inspired me to knit an Eva cardigan
I love the sweater and scrunchie
Congratulations on starting this podcast! I tuned in over my breakfast then picked up my yarn and hook. (Yes, hook--who am I?) I'm waiting to hear about some recent design submissions, so I'm taking a knitting break after all that swatching. I recently did a stash sort and had lots of odds and ends, so I started a crocheted Welcome Blanket. It's also some inspiration for my crochet students at the senior center.
Your knitting is amazing ,but I only knit from the bottom up. So please have some knit. I love the lime green sweater.
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️
Thank you for sharing Claire. I don't have a strong preference for top down or bottom up. I have things about both that I like or don't like as much. Here's the short list. I like top down to have a really nice stretchy collar edge, however, I dislike flipping the sweater body round & round once I get to the sleeves. I like top down because sometimes I like to have all the challenging bits of a yoke right at the beginning of the project and then have some easier knitting toward the end. However, sometimes I like it the other way around so that I can use sleeves sort of as a swatch. I really like knitting sleeves first, then joining to the body of a sweater and have some of the challenging or more interesting knitting toward the end. I do find that I like sweaters knit bottom up easier for me to fit myself. I can easily visualize size alterations from bottom up, vs top down. I also find that visualizing shaping much easier to execute in crochet first. I think that's because I can just take my hook out and lay the piece flat to see where I'm at more easily. Once I get the shaping sort of laid out in crochet, it is usually pretty easy for me to transfer that to knitting. On the flip side, I find it easier to try on a top down garment before it's completed. I like bottom up for hats that are knit and hats that are top down for crochet. I'm fine with either toe up or cuff down for socks. Socks are great no matter what kind of construction. I feel the same about mittens. They are my comfort knitting and when I try out new stitches I usually have either a sock, mitten, or hat on the go, rather than making a square swatch. I will use the small project as a basis for the swatching because they help me to see how the stitch will play out over smaller distances, as well as over a few increases or decreases. By using accessory projects as swatches I naturally encounter those requirements. Second most important to me, knitting through the accessory sized project lets me know if I enjoy knitting that stitch pattern over a longer time than a swatch. If I don't enjoy the process of a stitch pattern over a hat, there's no way I will enjoy it for a full sweater, shawl, or blanket. If I am going to knit a large enough swatch to measure this amount time spent, then I figure I might as well have a finished or half finished project. If I work a sock or mitten, and don't carry through, I put the item in the "mitten" basket inside our door and the grandkids will grab anything of similar size. They don't care if they match if they are cold. LOL 🙂 Side note: I'm still studying the lessons from Sweater Class.
Thank you so much for your comment! It's great to hear about your approach to knitting and how you find value in both top-down and bottom-up constructions. Your strategy of testing out stitch patterns on smaller items before committing to larger projects is very smart! I'm also so pleased to hear you're still working through the Sweater Design School lessons. Keep going, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance with the course.
I know it's not a popular belief, but I really love brioche knitting. Anything brioche just looks super comfy and classic.
Brioche is gorgeous - so squishy and comforting! I need to do more of it though, as I'm not confident designing with it yet.
For me, it is topdown 🙂
It is so practical, isn't it?
I absolutely love the triangle back neck on the purple cardigan. I'd like to test knit it when available. ❤
Yay! I love that feature too. Are you signed up for my test knitting email list? I'll notify you as soon as it's ready.
💬 Let's Chat! Do you prefer knitting top-down, bottom-up, or does it depend on the project??
For vintage patterns - bottom up is normal and I like it as I can adjust needle size and therefore gauge as I reach the important bust and shoulder areas, if needed. But for modern patterns definitely top down since I don't want to knit miles of stockinette only to find some sort of problem at the yoke section!
Hi Claire, could you consider removing the 'clicks' please?
Of course! I'll do that in my next video.
Oh, thank-you! I'm really enjoying these videos :)@@sistermountainstudio
Depends on project 😊 but I think I am more comfortable with top down.
I think I'm with you on that - my preference tends to change depending on the project.
I'm inspired! Thanks so much Clare, this has given me a better understanding of how I could use a mood board and I love the great tips and advice.
Brilliant! I'm so pleased to hear that. Happy moodboard-ing!
I love technical knitting chat. It’s a whole new world to me! This is glorious and I’m only halfway through! ❤ thank you!
This means a lot - thank you so much!!
I love the vest and the blue tone colouring. The design pattern is dramatic. Love it.
I'm so pleased to hear that! I had a lot of fun with this one 🥰
Crocheting a blanket🙂. "Waltz of the Flowers"
I just googled this pattern, and wow! That's an heirloom piece, for sure. Beautiful!
brilliant.Thanks Clare.
Glad you enjoyed it 😊
So inspirational, adding this to my 2024 must try list 😁
Yay! Let me know how it goes
This was fab, really enjoyed it. I’m encouraged to give it a go just for fun!
Do it! I bet you could come up with something really cool
Thank you for taking us through your process. I'll try to design a knitting stitch from scratch for 2024.
So lovely to see you, TinaMarie! I'd love to see how it goes for you 😊
@@sistermountainstudio , I will definitely keep you updated.
This is so interesting and helpful! Loved watching and learning. Thanks! ☺️
You are so welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful 🥰
Yay!! So glad you're doing this, Clare!!! A treat to look forward to every month - with a notepad to take tons of notes and a nice cup of tea! I love your new designs and all the details you share about your processes. Thank you so much x
That's brilliant! I love the idea of us all sitting down for a cuppa together. Can't wait to share more with you, Abi 😄
I am also usually a monogamous knitter. It means I finish more things and forget less. I am finishing a dress that is a mashup of a Henley top and an increasing rib skirt. I’m using 2 bought patterns but am inspired to create/write my own pattern for something similar
Yes, that is definitely a benefit of being a monogamous knitter. I also find that I get very "locked in" on a certain project, so it's a chore to stop knitting on that and do something different. Your dress sounds amazing! I love the idea of a Henley-style dress.
Loved your first episode Clare! I’ll look forward to seeing more in the future. I’m a pretty monogamous knitter as well, but at the moment I’m just finishing up a Cloud sweater in Isager Eco soft and silk mohair by PetiteKnit and have a Jenny cardigan in Isager Alpaca 2 and silk mohair on the needles. I am working on a drop shoulder design of my own, which I’ll force myself to write up once I’m over a case of COVID😅 Can I plug how truly informative your Sweater Design class is? Well, I just did and mean it whole heartedly. I struggled along as a self taught designer for years before your class and really found exactly what I needed in it. ❤ I think your Sunny Lime Eva cardigan is going to be amazing and will go with so much! I’m also less of a color work knitter (style wise) but I really found inspiration in your textured color work sample and your finished vest.
Oh no! Sorry to hear you have COVID. I hope you're not feeling too rough. And thank you!! for your kind words about Sweater Design School. You've perfectly articulated why I do this - so many struggle trying to piece it all together, and I love the idea of having a hub where they can learn everything they need. Thank you so much, Mary!
Lovely to see you on KZread. Your vest design is very tempting. Vests in general are. Montpellier slipover is on my needles atm.
Ooh, I'm so pleased to hear that! I'm so excited to wear mine properly. And that slipover is gorgeous! I really like November Knits' style.
Such a great video Clare, your vest is gorgeous. One to add to my Raverlry queue. That Lime colour really suits you too. 😘
Thanks so much! I just cast on and I'm absolutely hooked. The colour brings me a lot of joy!
I love your newsletter & videos so excited to subscribe to your channel x
Ah, I'm so happy to hear that! I'm excited to share more with you all.
Nice to meet you, Clare! Very interesting to hear your techniques and recommendations. As for me, I’m knitting a modified version of the Hide and Peek Shrug by Florence Spurling - one colour, mock honeycomb stitch in the honeybee colourway of Eriu yarn. A straightforward knit to watch podcasts with. 😊
Ooh, I haven't seen that pattern before, but I just looked it up and it is lovely! Great silhouette, too.
Yay! It’s so cool to see you on KZread😊 I’m currently working on finishing up my second sample of a new sweater design (thanks to Sweater Design School, of course🙃).
Hooray! That's so cool, Elizabeth. I can't wait to see!
love love love your slipover ! Your first episode was amazing with your beautiful radish cardigan. Your video was full of inspiration and motivation, and also I noticed your vision board in the back, it looks great especially with the set up and the sketches of your sweaters. Looking forward to the next vid :)
Thanks you so much! I'm so pleased to hear that. I'm a big fan of this board - it sits behind my desk and keeps me inspired (and on track!) while I'm working. I'm so glad I did this, as I didn't have a space like this for a long time.
You’ll be just great! Share your courage? We all need it. ❤️
Sending you heaps of courage! Thanks for the encouragement 🥰
So happy you’ve started a podcast!
Yay! Me too. I don't have many IRL knitting friends, so it was a lot of fun to sit and talk about knitting for a long time, haha.