Will Knit For Food

Seriously, I love to knit.  And the frustrating thing is, it takes a lot of skill, but there really isn't any great way to turn it into income.  If you sell finished objects, you can't sell it for what its really worth.  People don't want to pay $100 for a scarf.  If you sell patterns, you are in competition with thousands of other patterns that may be very similar to yours.  Many people are appalled at the idea of paying $5-$10 for one pattern.  Most test knitters don't get paid, which while as a designer, I love having others test knit for me for free, I feel they deserve to be compensated.  What is wrong with the world that a craft requiring so much skill and time is not valued?  What are your thoughts and opinions?

My Humblest Apologies

My dear readers:

I apologize for such a long time between posts. Since I moved to Sacramento, it has been difficult for me to find time to get on the computer. I also went through a period of knitter's block. I finally have a new design up for you, which has been pattern tested by the loyal knitters of "Completely Pointless and Arbitrary Test Knitters/Crocheters." I will be posting a related pattern as soon as the test knitting is done, but for now, please enjoy Dash Mitts, which were designed specifically for a hand painted bulky weight yarn. Happy Knitting!

Greetings loyal readers! I know I have been away for a while and I apologize. I am going to make it uzp to you though. For the month of May, I am offering all of my patterns Buy One Get One Free! Just head over to Ravelry.com, and search for Webknitter13. That's me! Check out my designs, purchase one, and send me a message telling me which one you eould like free. Please make sure to include your email address, and I will then send your Free pattern. Please Note: Free pattern must be of equal or lesser value than purchased one. Thanks and Happy May!

Two New Patterns

Greetings loyal readers.  I have two new patterns out for you to enjoy.  The first is a scarf that will make you feel rich, beautiful and stylish.  It takes less than 300 yards of a worsted weight angora yarn of your choice, and one skein of a ribbon yarn such as Tundra Glitz or ChaCha.  There is another beautiful one out called TuTu, but it has less yardage, so you would probably want three skeins.  I love this scarf.  I made mine with red Tundra Glitz.  Go here to download this pattern for only $4.00.

I also recently posted a pattern for a fun pair of slippers.  These slippers are reminiscent of tennis shoes, and even have laces!  Make them in your favorite color, or even better, make them in the colors of your favorite sports team!  I plan on making some for people as gifts.  Who doesn't love a good pair of slippers?  These are very quick to make and everyone will want a pair.  Click here to download the pattern for only $4.00.

Thanks for reading today.  I have so many more projects in the works and in my head.  Now if only I could never sleep and have endless funds to create all these lovely things.  Please let me know what you think of all the existing projects!  I greatly appreciate feedback.  Enjoy!

You can view all of my patterns here!  If you don't already have an account, Ravelry is free to join.  I recommend you sign up!

What I Have Been Up To Lately

Working and all things fiber of course. I recently set myself a new set of goals to work on each project I currently have in the works three times per week. Right now that works out to working on three a day. Yes, I have that many projects going at once, but I don't work my fingers to the bone. My goal isn't to wear myself out, just to get things done. For example, the Crochet jacket I am working on, I have a goal of getting 15 rows put on it per week, so five rows a day, three days. Not so bad when you look at it that way. Because of that, my newest patterns are up for sale on Ravelry. They are the previously mentioned knit and crochet headbands. Aren't they beautiful?!

Finally Finished Something

It is so nice to get a project done. I have finished three projects in the last couple of weeks, so now I just have to get the patterns written and upload them to Ravelry. I finished a scarf that is meant to be worn draped around your neck instead of wrapped around that is covered in ruffles. It uses a ribbon yarn paired with an angora yarn. I used Tundra Glitz, but ChaCha and TuTu can also be used. I also finished a fun cotton headband that is for all ages. The pattern is written to an adult size, but just add a second button farther up the band and it will be adjustable down to child's size. The third project is another headband, written to a child's size, but do a few extra rows in the center portion and it will fit teens and adults too!

I will be on the road all day today, so I won't be able to post pictures or anything, but I promise to upload the pictures and patterns very soon!

Crochet Headband

The headband is finally up on Ravelry. It is an easy pattern for all who know how to crochet. I hope you enjoy it, and I would love to see pictures of your finished projects. The other projects are a bit behind. The shrug still needs a second sleeve. The scarf is about half done, and the tote bag is about 4" tall. I have been getting lots of knit to hire projects at work, and those have been keeping me pretty busy. It is nice getting paid to do what I love. I wish everyone could be so lucky. I just finished a hat, a cowl, a tote bag, and a shrug for work. I love knitting and crochet. Don't forget to check out the headband!

A Bit Behind

Well everyone, I am a bit behind on my knitting.  I may not get any projects done and posted in February.  I have been doing lots of knitting for the shop I work at, and that is guaranteed income, so the designing has been put aside for a little while.  I am still working on the designs recently promised.  I am over halfway done with the shrug, about 1/3 of the way done with a scarf, and a 1/3 of the way on the tote bag as well.  The crochet headband will be up shortly.  I just had my class at the shop for it, so I'll make a couple tweaks to the pattern, and then its all... yours!  Talk to you soon!

Coming Soon: New Patterns

So I thought I would hint to you all what is up and coming since I haven't completed anything lately.  I have been so busy trying to find work that I haven't had as much time to knit.  So here goes.

First up is the denim tote-bag.  It involves a recycled pair of jeans and cables.  That is all you get to know for now, but this will be very stylish.  It takes your knitting to the next level.  All you need is some very basic sewing skills.  Use it as your knitting bag.  That is what mine will be.  Trust me, you'll get lots of compliments on this one.  Expect the pattern sometime in February.

A lace shrug to wear over your little black dress.  No, it won't keep you warm, but it will add some modesty to that little black dress that is a little too slinky for most occasions.  Or wear it over a camisole to dress it up a bit.  Expect this pattern in February as well.

And last but not least, a new crochet headband pattern.  I designed it for a class I'm teaching at the yarn shop, but I plan on posting the pattern on ravelry after the class.  This one should be up mid February, and I am the most excited about it.  My class filled up in no time, and I may have to repeat it to satisfy all the customers clamoring to sign up!

February will be a busy month.  I am hoping this is the turning point that will keep me from having to find that second job.  As much as I love my job at the yarn shop, I have bills to pay.  I need my knitting patterns and classes to do well to help pay those.  I can't wait to see the finished projects from the sales I have had so far!

Offering My Services To The World

I am thinking of offering to knit/crochet for people, as well as offering knitting lessons, for a fee, of course.  I have bills to pay, and unfortunately they won't wait.  I am debating what my fees should be.  I just want to not have to worry about affording the necessities.  I also have two new patterns in the works, a bag, and a shrug.  I hope you are on the edge of your seat, because I'm on the edge of mine! I know I haven't been writing a lot lately, and honestly, its because I am a little depressed.  Don't get me wrong.  I love my job.  I have just been so stressed about money lately.  I have started searching for a second job, which I am not thrilled about, but there it is.  Wish me luck loyal followers.

New Cabled Hat Pattern

Well everyone, a new pattern is up for sale on Ravelry, and you absolutely must make one.  I know I am bragging about my own pattern, but I want to make more of it, in lots of different colors!  It was so fun!  It only takes one ball of CEY Liberty Wool, and they have so many beautiful colors.  The best part about the yarn is that it is so soft.  Wool normally makes me itch and this doesn't bother me at all.  Enjoy that hat.  I can't wait to see what yours looks like!

Some Cables With Your Lace

The new shawl is now available for purchase and I must say it is gorgeous.  You can wear it as your standard triangular shawl, or wear it like a scarf.  Both look great!  The pattern is only $5.00.  I really enjoyed designing this one, and I am sure you will enjoy making one for yourself or a friend.  This would also make a great prayer shawl, so cast on and enjoy!

Testing!

So lately my goals have been to eat healthier and become a successful designer. Things are going well with the first via more salads less soda. The second however is lagging a bit. I have not had any sales in a while. I would like that to change. So I am going to offer some promos coming soon. First though, I would like to take a tally of who reads my blog and has looked at my patterns. I would like you dear reader to leave a comment by midnight pacific time Friday the 13th saying which design is your favorite. You don't have to have knit it. You just need to look at the pictures. Please state why it is your favorite. I will randomly choose one person to win a free pattern of their choice from my current patterns. I can't wait to hear from you. Good luck!

2012: Working Towards Success

So, as my friends and family all know, I am anti-resolution.  No one keeps them.  What is the point in making them?  Instead, I am working on my lifestyle.  Currently, I sit around way too much.  Granted I am knitting on projects for work, classes, or pattern design, but I end up out of breath walking around the mall or downtown.  I need to make it a point to walk more.  Running is out of the question since I have bad knees and shin splints.  So this is me attempting to be healthier.  Eat better and walk more.

Then there is working on my career and obviously income.  I work part time at a yarn shop.  While it is the most exciting job I have ever had, income-wise, I need to do more.  I am working on pattern designs a lot lately.  I would really like to get my name out there and get those patterns moving.  I have several on Ravelry up for sale or free to download, and more are always on the way.  I am deciding what the best way to market myself is, and that is where I am not sure how to continue.  I would love to get one of my patterns into something like Interweave Knits or Vogue Knitting.  So here is my hope, that by the end of the year I  have a steady income off of my patterns.

Better Late Than Never

Okay so the never before seen hairpin lace project was completed just in time to be on the tree on Christmas Eve, and it may not be so festive to post it now, but at least you'll get to see it.  I made garland for my tree out of the ribbon yarn on the hairpin lace tool.  It has the same construction as hairpin lace, but not the same appearance.

 

And I am finally done with the scarf pattern as well.  It turned out beautifully and I recommend it to everyone!  If you know the basics of knitting, you can knit this scarf.  Check it out! Hopefully I'll have more to post soon.  The holidays have been crazy, but don't worry, I am already working on a new pattern.  This one will be a mohair shawl.  That is the only hint for now.  Have a Happy New Year!

A Busy Week

Well, last time we spoke I promised two things, a new pattern and something never before seen done with hairpin lace.  Well the pattern is done, minus identifying the yarn I used, but the hairpin lace project, not so much.  Here's why.  I worked every day this week, and when I wasn't at work, I was working on the sample for the crochet scarf class I'm teaching next month.  If you live in the Elk Grove, CA area, come to Knitique and sign up for the class.  It is a beautiful scarf, even if it isn't quite done yet.  However, the mitts pattern is done, and you can find it for sale on Ravelry here!  I appreciate the support from anyone who buys the pattern.  I'm thinking of doing an ebook collection of all my mitts once I get them all done.  I have two more mitt patterns to work up.  Also in progress is a new knitted scarf pattern.  It is more complex than my previous patterns, but its worth it!

With Pom Poms on Top

Yes, I put pom poms on my boots.  No, it doesn't look tacky!  I used bright red on black boots so they look very festive, but there are so many colors of this yarn, you could easily style them to wear all winter long!  These are my latest pattern, and I really hope you enjoy them.  They are quick and easy to make a pair of, and they only take one ball of each yarn.  They are very affordable.  Make some for you, or make some for the kids.  These are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Also coming soon are a new mitts pattern, as well as something you never thought you could make with hairpin lace.  Both of these patterns should be out by the end of next week, so just hang tight and customize your boots while you wait!  Thanks for reading.

New Patterns

Now that I have gotten settled and found employment here in Sacramento, I have had more time to develop patterns, and to begin spending time on the computer again.  I am excited to tell you that I have new patterns available for download on Ravelry.  I have just listed a couple pairs of mitts, and some fabulous boot toppers.  You absolutely must check them out!  All my patterns are reasonably priced.  I am thinking of publishing an ebook soon if all goes well.  Please support me by favoriting my patterns and downloading them for your use and enjoyment.  I love getting feedback as well!

All of my patterns can be viewed here!
http://www.ravelry.com/designers/anna-simonsen

Recent Yarnventures in Sacramento

So I am now pretty much settled in Sacramento, although I find myself in my car typing this post because we don't have internet at home quite yet.  And I find myself low on battery as well, because my car adapter refuses to work.

So far my yarnventures have been to unpack all my yarn and decide where to put it all.  That was no easy task mind you.  My Grandma recently sent me all her yarn and that was a lot of yarn.  I 5 shelf bookcase, a 3 shelf bookcase, and a desk devoted to my yarn, books, and tools such as loom, knitting needles, knitting machine, and embroidery machine.

Now I find myself meeting yarny people in Elk Grove, a half hour drive away, but totally worth it.  There are yarn shops closer, yes, but this one takes the cake, or gives it as the case may be.  I went to their Knit N Nosh event and boy was it great!  I had so much fun, helped new knitters when they got stuck on projects, and worked on my newest soon to be pattern for sale.  Knitique is well worth the drive, and has a great selection.  I know I will be going back there soon to buy a beautiful set of interchangeable needles very soon.

Balancing Act: Crafting and Moving

Wow..... I am likely moving cities a month or so from now.  That is the scary part.  I know what city.  I know my fiancee will have a job.  I don't know if I will have one.  We don't have a place yet.  And we don't know exactly when we are going.

And then there is the not so fun part....  Packing!  Ugh!  Its even less fun when you don't know exactly when you are moving.   What do I pack first?  How am I going to deal with the pets?!  I have to have everything out of the house for the inspection of the apartment, but if its hot they can't exactly hang out in the car...  I have things like candles that don't appreciate getting hot either.  Uhaul trucks aren't air conditioned....  Will they melt?  I'm hoping it is going to cool off enough before we go that I don't have to worry about that too much...

Oh my gosh.... There is so much to do....  I am giving stuff away, throwing stuff away, donating stuff, all to have to pack less.  Am I going to regret getting rid of some of this stuff?  Where do I donate my Hot Topic coats?  Not very many people are into trench coats and leather....

And then there is my knitting.  How long can I put off packing it?  Should I get rid of some of my stash?  How do I take the time to work on projects when I should be packing?  I have a new scarf pattern in progress to put up on Ravelry.  I am in a hurry to get lots of decent patterns up for sale so that I can supplement my income.  Especially since I will possibly have a loss of income....  I know I'm probably not doing any more weaving until I move...  How do people do this?!

So... the thing I'm most excited about?!  There is a Stitch N' Bitch group where I'm moving.  There isn't one here!  And there are tons more yarn shops there!  I'm sad to go because I have friends and family here and no one I know there, but its an adventure!