August 24, 2009
Final Anniversary Sale and CONTEST
You all have made it a very very (very very) busy month for us here at The Loopy Ewe. And we SO appreciate it! We’ve had fun packing up your orders. You might notice that we’ve sent out some of the sale orders sans tissue paper. It was either that, or take an extra 2 days to get all of the orders out. We figured you’d just as soon have the yarn quicker. Once these anniversary sales are over, we’ll get back to orders as usual around here. Although if you want to keep up this pace, I can always hire more Elves. We’re up for it!
Wow – 1800+ comments on last week’s contest blog. How fun is that? It was interesting to see where you heard about us. Yes, we DO love and appreciate Wendy an awful lot. And Lime & Violet. And the Yarn Harlot. And … well every single one of you who have ever passed our website on to your friends and knitting groups via podcasts, blogs, emails, Ravelry posts, and word of mouth. Our goal is to always live up to the positive things that you have said about us, and we promise to take good care of your friends, here, too. 
We are sending out 8 prize packages, from randomly selected comments off of last week’s blog. The winner’s are: Janice in VA, Laura in UT, Maria in MN, Natasha in VA, Meredith in MI, Ann in OH, Melissa in UT, and Rachel in VA. (I think that Virginia and Utah were well represented this time.) I’ve sent emails to the 8 of you, so check your email in-box if you think it might be you. We’ll pick the last round of winners from this post, and we’ll announce them next week.
Today’s Anniversary Sale (our last one) includes 20% off all Fiesta Yarns, 20% off all Monica Knits Patterns, and 20% off all Loopy Ewe Accessories. (In stock items only.) We hope you have fun picking out some new things. We’ll be including a free sock pattern if you purchase 2 skeins of Baby Boom (the sock is shown here), and a free scarf pattern if you purchase a skein of Ballet. All free patterns are while supplies last.
In addition to the Sale, we’ve also added in a whole bunch of stuff for the regular weekly update. Just in, you’ll find:
Polar Knits Worsted Weight
Dream in Color Classy re-stocked (including our exclusive Don’t Be Blue colorway)
Dream in Color Smooshy re-stocked
Dream in Color Smooshy Sock Summit Exclusives
Lorna’s Laces Whidbey Island (exclusive Sock Summit Colorway)
Ella Rae Lace Merino
String Theory Caper Sock
Hand Maiden Casbah (so many great colors in stock)
Tempted Luxe Girl (new cashmere line)
Opal Rainforest Five
Addi Lace Turbo 16″ circulars
Addi Click Tips and Connectors
Fiesta Baby Boom in new colors
So hop over to shop! But before you go, answer this question in the comments for your chance to win a prize package in our last anniversary contest. (Of course we’ll be back with our September Blog Contest before you know it.) Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting? It might be a pattern designer, or a blogger, or a friend, or a group on Ravelry, or a podcaster or … even yourself. Maybe you’re good at poking around and inspiring yourself to learn new things and branch out. Food for thought. And then for a blog comment.
We’re taking pre-orders on the new Namaste bag colors, which we expect in within the next week or two. If you’d like a RED Hermosa, or a BLACK Zuma, or a BLACK Laguna, simply send us an email (support AT theloopyewe DOT com) and we’ll reserve one for you. The Hermosa’s are $75 and the Zuma’s and Laguna’s are $69.
We’re heading up to Indiana to take Knitting Daughter back to college this week, so I won’t be blogging again until next Monday. Maybe I can get some of these half-finished socks done enroute so that I’ll have photos to share by then. Or maybe I’ll be too busy shedding tears. You know how that goes. I’m hopeless.
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Susie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:50 pm
My mother has been my biggest knitting influence. Though she doesn’t knit, she does fabulous crochetwork, and has been very encouraging and appreciative of my efforts. One of my favorite parts about knitting is showing Mom what I made!
Stephanie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:51 pm
I have several knitting influences…….probably most influential would be my knitting friends at our local knitting shop/studio. They are the best!
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:53 pm
I’ll get this started. Probably as many of us were influenced in our crafting – whatever it may be – by a family member, I was most influenced in my knitting by my mother. As a very young girl, I remember seeing socks on my mom’s knitting needles. Then she took a break as she got busier with all our activities and we three children each received a handknit sweater from a great aunt in England as a Christmas. She continued to sew, sew, sew. Then, again she began to knit again. She began knitting sweaters. She continued to knit for me while I was in college. Then after I was married, she continued by making sweater/skirt – all handknit outfits. They are too small, but I still have them – I can’t part with them – I have a dream of getting back into them someday. She even made me a pair of pants with cables down the side and lined them with trichot, and, of course, I had a matchiing sweater. Eventually, she knitted mittens to give the clothes closet in her hometown. She had been a school teacher and knew how harsh the winters could be. She wanted to help keep as many children warm as possible. Many friends are surprised that I know how to knit some of the things I do when they want to take a class. Where did you learn that? My mom taught me lots of things about knitting. Still I can learn new things and new tips and techniques about the things she taught me. You are never too old to learn – even to begin knitting,
claire said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:55 pm
I would have to say that Joan, at my LYS, Monarch Knitting, has had the biggest influence. She has always been so patient and helped me keep my sense of humor (because hers never fails) through the past 4 years as I learned to knit. She knows just when to encourage, when to hand-hold, and when to just give you a gentle kick in the pants.
Patti Davis said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:55 pm
People I’ve meet at LYSs! It’s so exciting putting together different yarns in different patterns. There’s always something new going on!
Happy Aniversery!!
Windy Brown said,
August 24, 2009 @ 6:57 pm
My grandmother had taught me to knit years ago but I never was that interested in it. Then about ten years ago, I got the Knitting for Dummies book on a whim. I have been knitting since then. The majority of I have taught myself. But I have also taken several classes and I have learned from there also.
Kathleen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:01 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting is the other members of my guild. From sharing their current WIP’s, showing off new yarn finds, and just offering support with difficult patterns, they really have helped me become a more accomplished knitter.
Melissa (mom2legomaniacs) said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:01 pm
Without a doubt, the Ravelry group Sock Knitters Anonymous. Too many friends to name, but they have definitely put me where I am now. Most grateful for that too.
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:01 pm
I think it must be the Yarn Harlot – I was just starting to knit and discovered her blog during the Knitting Olympics. I discovered a lot of other knitting blogs through her blog.
Cindy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:02 pm
My neighbor and friend Marianne has been the biggest influence in my knitting. I was walking by her house one night and saw the she was knitting. I asked if she would teach me and she did. She got me started and was a great teacher! If it weren’t for her I’d probably be making horrible knots out of some teach yourself to knit kit! (I don’t learn well from written manuals on my own).
Nadia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:02 pm
The amazing books by Sheila McGregor and Michael Pearson in the early – mid 1980’s had the most effect on my knitting. Ethnic techniques like true fair isle, two-end knitting, lace and more were new to knitters in the US. This stuff was revolutionary and amazing. I remember staring at the unglamorous pictures with my eyes inches from the pages. It was a journey to another time and place not to be matched until the Bishop came out with his book years later. Colour and stitch technique to fuel the imagination for the ages.
MAKW said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:02 pm
I think the various rav groups have impacted my knitting. It’s so cool to see what patterns look like in various yarns before you start a new project.
lori said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:03 pm
No question: My Mom. She taught me how to knit when I was a girl and I was never without a “project” . It’s been my joy in good times, my solace in hard times and always a reminder of how much she, to this day, means to me. I think when you teach someone how to knit you give them the gift of self-satisfaction.
Brittany said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:04 pm
I taught myself to knit but I think the ravelry community as a whole has had a big effect past the basic knit and purl phase.
mitzi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:04 pm
the people who infuence my knitting the most are sheri at loopy and my sister Laura in UT who always wins all contests. i love your both anyway
.
Sharon said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:04 pm
My mother ..up in heaven. She and her friends had a “Friday Night Knitting” club…
waaaay before the book was published! I remember holding those skeins of yarn as she made them into balls. Then going to the knitting store where she would have the buttonholes made in the grograin ribbon on the cardigans she would knit for me. So many good memories…
Adina said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:06 pm
My biggest knitting influences have been pretty wide and varied. No one in my family knits, so I get a lot of inspiration from Ravelry. Designers like BrooklynTweed, Veronik Avery, Norah Gaughan, Eunny Jang (love her colorwork!) Yarn Harlot and Elizabeth Zimmerman with their no nonsense approach to knitting, and humor.
Penny Mosher said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:07 pm
Podcasts have alot of influence for me. Especially Knitmoregirls for sock yarn. It is hard for me to buy locally, so Loopy Ewe is my local yarn store of choice. Thanks so much.
Denise said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:07 pm
As with others, I’ve had more than one great knitting influence.
But, I’d have to say my parents have been my biggest.
My mom is not a knitter, but she’s a great model and happy ‘knittee’, and my dad bought me my first knitting machine, including ribber, accessories, lessons and yarns.
My dad is gone now, but my mom continues to support me in my yarn ‘addiction’ and my fledgling attempts at getting my sock patterns published.
I have lots of knitting friends and shop owners who I also owe a big “Thank You” for their support and encouragement. What a wonder passion!!
Karen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:09 pm
Wow!!!! how do you pick just one? I have to say that every knitter I’ve ever met has inspired me. However, my biggest champion is my grandmother. I truly regret that I didn’t let her teach me how to knit when I was young, however, she couldn’t be prouder. I’m sad that she can no longer see to see what I make, but she feels and she brags about it to everyone. The first question she asks when I call, ‘What are you knitting today?” That’s the start of our long conversations about knitting. I wish she could see enough to knti still. I know she would truly love the yarns that are out there now.
Suzanne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:10 pm
The influence for my lace knitting has been Evelyn Clark, Melanie from Pink Lemon Twist and Anne from Knitspot. I admire their work and just wish I had more time to knit. Other than that, my grandmother crocheted but I don’t remember her teaching me though I have all her crochet hooks. I also am inspired every summer when I go to Knitcamp and there is a fashion show of campers knits. Just makes the fingers knit to make everything I see.
Lisa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:12 pm
Biggest knitting influence? Without a doubt-Elizabeth Zimmerman! I was shown the basics by my mom (and you taught me ho wto purl wrong! Thanks Mom!), but otherwise am self taught. I learn by doing it, ripping, redoinbg it……As I try new things, I keep going back to EZ to help me learn them. I’m sure I’ll keep going back to her for a long long time.
Jodi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:13 pm
I think the most influence on my knitting would be The Loopy Ewe. With all the new stuff coming in every week I can’t help myself, but I also enjoy reading Anne Hanson’s blog. She knits up such wonderful shawls and socks (and so quickly too).
Kristi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:13 pm
The woman who inspired me to knit did so with the comment, “Oh heck, if I can learn it, anyone can!” With that same blithe spirit, my first project was a cable sweater out of a Vogue Knitting magazine. And from that point, I’ve never considered knitting to be something ‘hard’.
It’s all knits and purls. Only that.
Cherie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:14 pm
Elizabeth Zimmerman has been my biggest influence, though I never had the pleasure of meeting her. I bought her book, “Knitting Without Tears”, back in the 80’s, when I began knitting again for my children. Her teaching of the “hows” opened up so many ideas and enabled me to feel confident about whatever project I was tackling.
Elizabeth said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:14 pm
My biggest influence has to be Guru Stephanie, the Knitting Harlot. Especially her advice that “there are no knitting police!” She’s allowed me to relax and have fun with the process.
Kata said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:15 pm
I think Wendy Johnson was the first one to inspire me to try “fancy” socks. Before her it was just plain stockinette socks (which are nice once in a while, but a girl wants cute feet, you know?!).
Brooke Rogers said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:15 pm
Well, I have to say my sweet yorkshire terrier Lucy has most influenced my knitting. I learned to knit in college, took about an 8 year break, and then decided I wanted to make leg warmers for Lucy
) While fiddling around trying to figure out how to make some, I realized I needed to learn to knit socks. And thus my love of sock-knitting (and doggie legwarmer knitting) was born. And then I found The Loopy Ewe. . . . . . .
Conchita said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:16 pm
My daughter has had the most influence on my knitting. When I was pregnant with her I picked up the needles again (after a long hiatus) and took some lessons. I made her a baby sweater, then another. But I didn’t realize how much she influenced me until she arrived. I used to be afraid to jump in and try something new fearing I would mess it up or get it wrong. After being a mom and gaining more and more confidence in that area, I’m no longer worried about messing up in others. I can always go back and fix it, frog it and start over or, the greatest lesson I’ve learned, sometimes it doesn’t need to be ‘fixed’ at all. Sometimes the most beautiful things aren’t “perfect” in the traditional sense. It is the quirks or mistakes that make them more perfect than you could ever have imagined they could be!
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:16 pm
I would have to say podcasters–several of them–are the biggest influences and the ones who continually inspire and enable me.
Michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
i think I was most influenced by the yarn harlot! She was the first knitting blogger i happened upon and it grew from there!
amy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
I would have to say Elizabeth Zimmerman, whose books have inspired me, made me laugh, and taught me so much!
Melodie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:18 pm
Initially my mom was my biggest influence, she taught me to knit when I was young. I didn’t get into it seriously though until a couple years ago and Ravelry has been responsible for opening up a huge world of patterns, yarns and knitting friends.
Fern Bravemran said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:18 pm
Like so many others my Mother was my biggest influence. She taught me to knit when I was five. And she continued to knit until she died three years ago at the age of 90. (Iam 67). She was a perfectionist and I strive to be as proficient as she was.
Amy D said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:21 pm
I think that my Sunshine Yarnies Ravelry group has had the biggest impact on my knitting. I wasn’t very active on Rav until the last 6 months or so, and now I am participating in monthly KALs and whipping out those FOs.
angela said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:21 pm
My biggest knitting influence? Well, without Grandma, there would be no knitting for me. But I would say currently, my daughter. Sure, there are designers that inspure me. There are designers that I enjoy reading and knitting their patterns. But my daughter has a regular influence on the actual knitting. She often weighs in on pattern or color choices. I started knitting again after a 20-ish year break for her. Sometimes, she will even tell me to knit! (or to stop knitting lol)
Andrea said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:22 pm
Biggest influence…hmmmm. that would have to be Sock Wars – it’s what got me back to knitting, and gave me the courage to try socks – YAY SOCKS!
Pam said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:23 pm
Me! I taught myself and if I learn something new, it’s because I taught myself. I love color and I push myself to try new things!
Janet said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:25 pm
I’d have to say that the biggest influence on my knitting has been the wonderful group of women that I knit with each Wed. night. They are an inspiration to try to do new things and also to try to strive for excellence in each thing that I make. Oh, and we have a lot of fun together too!
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:25 pm
Definitely my mom. She taught me to knit several years ago, and she wasn’t even a knitter herself then. Once I was hooked, she started knitting again and now we spend most of the time we are together knitting or talking about knitting.
Arly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
I would say that my BIGGEST influence in knitting has been all the wonderful yarns and colorways.I would welcome diving into a pile of yarn than a pile of autumn leaves.
Christa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
Recently a knitting friend Tammy, who just also happens to have introduced me to TLE has influenced patterns I have been picking to start, such as IShbel and Arwen, but my biggest influence in knitting is the yarn itself–what pattern to choose for it etc. This is why I have such a large stash–the yarn calls to me and I will find something to knit with it.
Laura said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
My grandmother. She taught me to knit when I was 7, patiently casting on and recasting on for me as many times as I needed. Every time I finish a project today I think of her and how she would have enjoyed seeing it!
Deb said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
Wow–hard to answer this one…maybe my mom’s best friend Ruth because she was such a great knitter and I was always inspired by her knitting…but in recent years, I’d have to give credit to my son who bought me a knitting class—I had picked up knitting again (never really left it behind though) a few years ago and he thought I’d enjoy taking a class–and well, the rest as they say is history–that class got me so energized and excited about knitting that I don’t think my needles have been silent yet! So to Ruth and Chris–many thanks! And to Sheri happy anniversary just one more time….thanks for sharing the joy with us.
Megan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:28 pm
I think WendyKnits is the person who mostinfluences my knitting. I started reading her blog when I first started to knitting and fell in love with her patterns. I knit 90% of my adult sized socks toe up, mainly from Wendy’s patterns.
Carol said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:28 pm
I think Babies and Children have the biggest influence on me. Their patterns are so cute and they work up so fast. I knit other things, but my first project was a baby sweater 40 years ago and I have been knitting for babies ever since.
Kelly-ann said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:29 pm
Great question! Well, my biggest influences come from a couple of places.
The first being my children – why else would I knit fiddly toys
And I also am influenced by Knitty. I may not always knit designs from Knitty, but I absolutely love the wide range of patterns….from socks to shawls to toys to beautiful cardigans.
And finally, I am influenced by Ravelry. I just love reading through notes/mods from others who have knit a pattern – it inspires me to make my own modifications.
Judy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:29 pm
It seems PODCASTS (many and all, maybe mostly the Knitmore Girls) have inspired me to do more and more, socks and lace, get stuff done. I LOVE listening to what others are doing—-and then going to Ravelry for more inspiration and ideas.
Carla said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:29 pm
I can’t pin down any one person-
My grandmother and mother – were/are knitters and I have always loved fiber- many people have steered me into knitting-
Jenna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:30 pm
Ravelry has been the biggest inspiration to my knitting. I’ve discovered so many patterns and techniques that I wouldn’t otherwise have known about. I like to look at what other people have done with the pattern to be sure it will flatter me, and I can get help for any questions I might have.
Castiron said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:30 pm
My biggest knitting influence was my grandmother, who got me started on this whole craft.
Beyond her, there’s no one person I can point to and say “one of my top influences”; there’s just too many people, famous and obscure, who’ve influenced my knitting.
April said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:31 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been – my husband! He can’t knit or crochet, but he is my biggest cheerleader and gave me the confidence to pick up my first pair of needles (and many more afterwards!).
MsFeasance said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:32 pm
My biggest knitting influence was a law school classmate who taught me how to knit.
Otherwise, I don’t think I can name a single person, per se. It’s more of a collective thing gleaned from people I respect on Ravelry –which I can see has left its mark on this blog!
Tracy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:34 pm
The indie dyer explosion over the last few years inspires me. I usually fall in love with a yarn first and then seek out or create a pattern. So much deliciousness to choose from now.
southparknitter said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:34 pm
I think the greatest influence on my knitting are all my knitting friends–whether online or “in person” or both. My aunt taught me to knit but what keeps me knitting is the friendships I’ve made through knitting.
Paula said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:35 pm
Ravelry has been the biggest influence on my knitting. The various groups I have joined, the support, encouragement and camaraderie has helped me to take “risks” and try things I never would have (both projects and yarn). In fact, it was Ravelry that helped me find The Loopy Ewe! I have become a compulsive knitter since I joined!
Jill said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:35 pm
Without doubt, The Yarn Harlot has had the most influence regarding my knitting. Her books and her blog keep my confidence growing as she teaches me “new” tricks and techniques. I would never have believed that I could knit a pair of socks until I read her first book. Now, I’ve always got a pair of socks on the needles even when my “main” project may be something entirely different.
Jane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:35 pm
My grandkids – they made me take up the hobby (obsession) again after a 25 year hiatus. Baby things are so much fun to knit and they don’t even have to fit a specific size.
Annette Lewek said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:36 pm
I would have to say my mom was my greatest inspiration and the yarn harlot is a close second, thru her I found Loopy Ewe and renewed inspiration! Thanks Loopy Ewe, Annette
Dana said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:36 pm
I would say that my friend Anne has had the most influence. She has encouraged me to be fearless, try new things, etc. And with her 30+ years of knitting experience, she is always ready and willing to help me learn new skills and to cheer me on!
Diane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:36 pm
My fellow F5ers!
Sarah-Dianne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:37 pm
The person who has the biggest influence on my knitting is Ysolda Teague. Her designs are so incredible, that they always leave me wanting to make more and more. I’ve never been disappointed by her, and when I finish one of her patterns, I have always learned something new and I’m ready to try it out.
Linda Rosener said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:37 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting is my son’s mother-in-law who now is my very best knitter friend! She knitted me a hat and scarf for my birthday last year, and I asked her if it was hard to knit and she said “no, if I can do it you can too!” She showed me how to crochet hats, and after about a dozen hats (which everyone got for Christmas!), I wanted to learn to knit and now I’m into socks! Who would have guessed one marriage could lead to so much fun! Thanks Terri!
Carrie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:38 pm
hmmm….my mom taught me how so i must mention her but i think Ravelry has had the biggest influence by bringing so many inspirational and beautiful projects into my living room.
Christine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:38 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been from knitting magazines, books and the knitting blogs I read-including yours!
Leslie Bausher said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:38 pm
Sure, my mom taught me to knit but I wouldn’t say that she had the biggest influence on my knitting. Without question the “individual” that has had the biggest influence on my knitting is (are) Jess and Casey at Ravelry. Before they conceived of their ever-so-elegant website I only knit occasionally and without guidance or leadership. Ravelry has led me into strange and beautiful knitting arenas I never would have found before and I am so happy for the direction they have given my knitting world.
Kathleen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:38 pm
My biggest influence in my knitting was my grandmother. She gave me my first pair of needles and so many tips to help me be successful!
Tucky Sancibrian said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:39 pm
My Mom inspired me and taught me how to knit when I was about 8-10 years old. I am now 73 and still knitting way. She taught me so much about the art of knitting – I had a few years where I did not knot at all but once I retired to the south, I started knitting again. I just love it – my favorite – SOCKS!! and more socks.
Connie Benotti said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:40 pm
When I was about 12 my Mother taught me to knit, pearl, c/o and b/o. That was it. It was all she knew. She lived to be 90 and made 2 needle mittens and slippers. I have always challanged myself to go that extra to be better than myself and as I got better my mother had such pride in my accomplishment that it made me try harder. Sometimes I wonder if she learned that little bit to help me get started because her true talent was hand sewing. I still have her patterns for two needle mittens, socks, and slippers. The copyright is in the 1940’s I believe. She was quite a girl.
When I married my husband, his mother was an accomplished knitter. There was nothing she couldn’t do with a pair of knitting needles. With her teaching I really grew in my art and still today I strive to be better. They are both gone now (my wonderful Mothers) but I know I need to share the gift they gave me and watch others learn and grow as I did. The other thing is to give back the art. It isn’t enough to be talented in your art, it’s just as important to teach and help others get started and to grow. Just as someone taught me, I will teach others and will continue that forever. Sheri you are part of the circle of art that keeps me going in my craft. You provide the best support of all. You help me to enjoy it. Thank you. I wish you many more Anniversaries.
Tucky Sancibrian said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:40 pm
My Mom inspired me and taught me how to knit when I was about 8-10 years old. I am now 73 and still knitting way. She taught me so much about the art of knitting – I had a few years where I did not knit at all but once I retired to the south, I started knitting again. I just love it – my favorite – SOCKS!! and more socks.
Angeluna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:41 pm
I’ve been knitting since I was eight. A friend’s mother decided it was time for her to learn and I sat in on that first lesson, bought a pattern, and knitted a two color slipped stitch pullover with turtleneck as my first project.
All my life, I have had knitting spurts. But it was Cat Bordhi and her idea of the Moebius (math nerd here) that caught my eye and really pulled me back in to serious, passionate knitting. Her wildly creative mind fired my imagination, she pointed me to the fabulous yarns available on the internet, and I’ve been furiously knitting away ever since.
Mary Lynn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:41 pm
My Gram taught me knitting and my Mom encouraged it by introducing me to Elizabeth Zimmerman. Right now, the biggest influence would have to be a group of internet friends I met on whoduknit. I met Jane through a One Skein Wonder swap when the book was first published and she invited me to join a new group that she had just joined and, as they say, “the rest is history!”
Minh said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:42 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting comes from Clara Parkes and my friends at the Knitter’s Review Forums. I’ve learnt so much from reading Clara’s reviews!
Beth Bachuss said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:42 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting would have to be Ann & Kay, the Mason Dixon knitters. They got me over thinking my knitting was precious with their patterns for dishcloths and swiffer covers, and I like it so much more now because I am surrounded by knit things, even if they do the dirty work! I also like seeing how they get inspiration from everything from fine art to a stack of books. Makes me more creative with the things I come up with.
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:43 pm
My biggest and favorite influence is my monthly knitting with friends.
Anne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:43 pm
Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting?
My sister : ) I never would have thought to knit – and my mom has always been a crocheter, even though she learned to knit as a child (imagine… they teach it in school in Germany – or did when my mom was a child
My sister was a knitter.. and was patient and encouraging enough to teach me how one year at Christmas – and she’s still the person with the most encouragement, laughter, and advice when I’m struggling along with something.
Kate said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:44 pm
My friend and neighbor Tara (blogs as DearKnits) – really influenced my recent knitting by insisting that I try some really really nice yarn. I’m completely floored by the difference it makes and am deeply grateful for the revelation. Knitting with acrylics was entertaining. Knitting with merino? really nice cotton? seasilk? Rhinebeck loot? Completely Absorbing.
Kath said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:44 pm
Like so many before me in the comments – the person with the biggest influence on my knitting is my mother. I can’t imagine that the idea of even trying it would have occurred to me if not for watching her knit. I followed other artistic and/or crafty pursuits on my own – but the knitting? All because of her. She’s my knitting guru without a doubt!
Isobel said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:45 pm
My grandmother has been the biggest influence on my knitting. My love of Shetland wool came from her. Growing up in Scotland and watching her knit the most amazing Shetland Lace has been the inspiration for my knitting. The love of natural, hand spun fibre’s, the feel of wool in your hands and the transformation of that yarn into a garment never fails to amaze me. My grandmother taught me how to knit while I truly sat at her knee, listening to stories of how she learned to knit watching her grandmother, who learned to knit watching hers. At present I am the last of the many generations of female knitters in my family, I look forward to the day when I can pass on what I have learned to a granddaughter of mine.
Tammy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:45 pm
My grandma. She taught me when I was about 11 or 12 one summer. I didn’t keep it up, but re-taught myself around 2001 or so. She was always impressed with the new things I would try, whether it was doing lace, socks, or just simply teaching myself something new. I miss her a lot these days. I have her needles and really need to pull them out for display purposes.
HeidiMonkey said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:45 pm
Honestly, the person who has had the biggest influence on your knitting is Stefanie Japel from Glampyre.com. Her patterns were the first knitting patterns I saw that really spoke to me. They inspired me to try and knit larger items because I saw that knitting could be modern if you just tweaked the old a little bit. She inspired me to knit more and also to design my own sweaters and for that I am forever grateful.
Erica said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:45 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been a mother-daughter duo named Shirley and Sandra. They own the Spin-A-Yarn shop in Edmonds, WA. My Mom taught me to knit when I was 6 or so. When I took up knitting again in my 20’s, she was too far away for hands on help. So I drove the 13 miles to their store and Shirley and Sandy patiently helped me fix my mistakes. They are wonderful people.
Lynne E. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:46 pm
My mother was the biggest influence on my knitting, because she knit a lot, and she tried to teach me to knit. (I actually learned to knit from her Coats & Clark “Learn How Book”.) She made beautiful doll clothes for my 17″ Nancy Lee doll, using McCall’s patterns. The next biggest influence has been my husband, who always wears the things that I knit for him, always supports my knitting habit without questioning the expense, and who enjoys visiting local yarn shops to look at the yarn and models. The final influence are the two wonderful knitting reference books, VOGUE KNITTING, and my all-time favorite, Montse Stanley’s KNITTER’S HANDBOOK.
Angeluna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:46 pm
Ooops, I wish I could edit my last post. Kudos to Cat Bordhi included since I found her Moebius there, it is the INTERNET that has most influenced my knitting life. The patterns, the blogs, the yarns, the YouTube videos, the access to an international world of wonderful knitters. The 24/7 availability of anything I might want to know about knitting. It is the internet that has truly changed the level of my knitting.
AnaMarie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:47 pm
My biggest knitting influence has been all of the amazing knitbloggers and designers who show off their work online, and more recently, Ravelry. I had no real life knitting friends, so everything I learned was through the internet. All of the knitters who’ve shown off their lace, socks, colorwork, and amazing sweaters and techniques, especially with the tips and tricks they used and the problems they’ve overcome, helped me learn that you can do anything you want, patterns are only guidelines, and that you can always frog it.
Michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:48 pm
I think Knitty was the biggest influence getting me back into knitting after many years’ hiatus. In the 70’s, we only had crappy yarn to knit. It occurred to me that since they have nice quilting fabrics available now, they should also have nice yarns — and I was right! If it weren’t for the internet in general, I probably wouldn’t be knitting.
Amy P said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:48 pm
I read a lot of blogs and get inspiration from many, but I’d say it’s Grumperina who is most likely to get me to try something new. I love the way she thinks through a project and then is able to clearly explain her thinking to me. I just learn something every time she posts, and it gives me the confidence to try a new project or technique.
Terri said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:48 pm
My “Knitting Ladies”. We meet at least once a week and once a month as a bigger group. They are so supportive and encouraging. They introduced me to you and I enjoyed visiting your shop with them last February. My Zia (Aunt) Anna knitted my sons and I some sweaters that I will never give away. I wish I knew how to knit while she was with us. It would have been great learning from her.
Emiko said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:49 pm
Ravelry has definitely been a big influence on my knitting. It’s probably a tie between Ravelry and just various knitblogs that I read on a regular basis. I’m so inspired to try different things just by viewing what others have knit!
Lisa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:49 pm
My mom and my grandma tried countless times over the years to teach me to knit. I wanted so much to learn! However, my stitches were so tight and the straight needles so unwieldy, and I kept dropping stitches and handing the work to Mom or Grandma for repair. It wasn’t until many years later, when a friend taught me how to knit on circular needles, that I really learned to relax and enjoy the art. I’ve used straight needles a time or two over the past dozen years, and double pointed needles perhaps a handful of times, but it’s the circular needles that seem to fit my hands and my knitting style.
Trish said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:49 pm
My mom taught me how to knit and it was instant love with my first knit and purl. I can’t say that any one person influenced me but my mom continued to encourage me to continue and try new things. It didn’t take much of a push.
Sandy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
That’s an easy question. My friends, Nicki & Tami have had the biggest influence. Both of them knit. Tami taught herself to knit right before being diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She and I crocheted and felted handbags. Nicki had been knitting and teaching kids to knit at the school the 3 of us taught at for a year or so. During all this I swore I wouldn’t pick up a “new hobby” by learning to knit so they began calling me a “militant Crocheter” It was a joke for a while until they started knitting socks. I tried crocheting socks but it wasn’t the same. So last summer while texting them (we were all on separate vacations) I taught myself to knit socks and have been hooked since. — I’ve branched out and done mittens and a yoga bag now too.
LeslieD said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
The biggest influence was my mother who taught me to knit when I was nine years old. It didn’t “take” then and all I ever did was watch her knit. She was an armpit knitter and could knit really fast! My mom passed away in 1999..ten years ago this past April. I still miss her! I started knitting about 5 years ago and it just took off. I think it was a way of feeling closer to her. I think of her often, especially when I finish a project or start a new one with a technique that’s new to me. Anyway, my mom was my biggest influence.
Liz said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
Although I didn’t learn to knit until I’d been an adult and out of the house for awhile, right now my mom is the biggest influence. She didn’t teach me to knit but she can knit a little. She appreciates what I do and I like to give away what I make. Since she is retired she has plenty of time to surf the ‘net and LYS to give me ideas about what to knit for my family.
Cindy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:51 pm
What a lovely question to answer!! My dear mother-in-law was the person who most influenced my knitting. She taught me how to knit years ago starting with a pair of mittens. Once finished, she told me if I could knit mittens, I could knit anything! I did, indeed, go on to knit all sorts of things but never socks. After a move to cramped quarters in 2006, I knew I would need something to work on in the cold Iowa winter ahead but it couldn’t take up much room. I dug out my needles and went in search of a sock pattern. Just the sound of those needles clicking together made me think of Mom!! She would be so proud to know that I learned to turn a heel all on my own and I can kitchener with the best of ‘em.
Stephanie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:51 pm
I’d have to say Knitty has been the biggest influence on my knitting.
Heather said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:52 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been Ravelry. I know that without it, knitting would still be only an occasional hobby, and not the huge aspect of my life that it is now. It’s just such a wonderful community and the pictures are so inspiring!
Thanks for all the contests and blogs, Sheri! You’re inspiring, too!
Kelly S said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:52 pm
This might sound silly, but the internet has been the biggest influence on my knitting. Unfortunately, I don’t really have any knitters in my real life. I taught myself to knit and have used the internet for inspiration and for lessons. Blogs & books (like the Yarn Harlot), KAL groups (like The Secret of the Stole) and especially Ravelry have taken my knitting to new heights! I am so happy that there are other people who love knitting as much as I do!
Sue J. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:52 pm
The internet has had the biggest influence on my knitting. It started with searching out a few patterns and looking for a few new yarns. Then it was online yarn shopping and reading lots of knitting blogs, then starting my own blog. After that, came Ravelry and the rest is history. I would have never attempted to knit socks or lace shawls without all the help, tutorials and project pictures I view every day. I would have never challenged myself to learn chart reading, either. Now, I can’t imagine any other way to knit lace. And the friends I have made through knitting on the net!!! That’s a huge piece of my knitting pie. I think that’s why I am so in love with the whole thing. From yarn to patterns to accessories to ad infinitum, it’s all about the friends I cherish. And you, Dear Sheri, are one of them.
katiedo said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:52 pm
My mom was my biggest influence. She learned from her grandmother who knit in the late 1800’s early 1900’s exclusively for wealthy women. Mom said her grandmother made the most beautiful suits & dresses. How I wish there was some of her knitting for me to see!!
Manda said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:52 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting is my knitting group, the St. Petersburg Florida Fiber Fanatics! They have taught me so much, made me laugh, made me cry, expanded my love of all things fiber and mostly given me some of the best friendships I have ever had.
Jessey said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:53 pm
My grandmother. Even though she has knit, spun, woven, etc., my entire life, I was never interested in doing the same. A few months before she dies, I finally got curious to give knitting a try, with some yarn and needles gifted from my grandmother, and was almost instantly hooked. She wasn’t around long enough to see how completely immersed in the world of knitting and spinning, but I hope she at least appreciated that I liked my new “hobby”. And now, everytime I excitedly tell my family about a new interest in dyeing yarn, in needle felting, or in weaving, they tell me how much like her I am. This continuing connection, even past death, is precious to me.
Faith said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:53 pm
Gosh, I think the biggest influence on my knitting is Teh Intarwebz. Between Ravelry, knitbloggers, the Tsarina of Tsocks, and the hundreds of thousands of tidbits left by other knitters, I can always find the answer, or at least a new person to ask.
In turn, I try to blog my own successes and failures, and help OTHER knitters find their way.
Kelly Jones said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:53 pm
My 2 year old son is the biggest influence on my knitting. He is so cute and always encourages me to knit. I love making things for him because he oooo’s and ahhhh’s and says pretty! I love designing intarsia patterns for him.
Tommie Rodgers said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:54 pm
My friend, Diane, is my mentor. She got me started knitting again after a very l-o-n-g discouraging project. Ravelry has kept me interested with all the projects, yarns, and new friends.
Marla said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:54 pm
My biggest knitting influence is my knitting group. Thanks, Shannita, Annette, Anne, Ana, Brenda, Andy, Sandi, Susan, Paula and Mel, who taught this left hander how to knit.
Joni Black said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:55 pm
Hi, First off I love your website. I guess what inspires me is the wool. I knitted years ago and just recently took it up because I went into a wool store looking for yarn for rug hooking ans was absolutely amazed by the amount and variety of hand dyed wools available to the knitter. So I have to say what inspires me our all the hand dyers out there who do a marvelous job enticing us with their colours.
Thanks – Joni – Montreal, Canada
Julie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:55 pm
My friend Melanie inspired me with all her projects. Watching her needles go hpnotized me into trying new things myself.
Whitney said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:56 pm
I’d say ysolda teague and debbie bliss have had the biggest influence on my knitting, but I also get a lot of inspiration (for colors, textures, etc) from movies!
Janet said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm
My mother has been the greatest influence/inspiration in my knitting. She taught herself to knit and ended up being a knitting teacher for many others. When I was is junior high school she encouraged me to knit gifts for neighbors to practice my knitting skills, then got me into knitting sweaters for myself. I even knit an Aran Isle sweater for my husband in the 70’s which he still wears today. As it turns out, I became an influence and inspiration to my mother, who had never tried Aran knitting: her reasoning was that if I could handle it and she had taught me to knit, SHE could do it. Fortunately she mastered the techniques and has provided each of her children and grandchildren with heirloom Aran knit afghans.
Heather said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm
My grandmother is probably my biggest influence. Designs and designers come and go, but she’s the one who taught me to knit as a child & made numerous sweaters and mittens for me. I use the style of knitting she was taught as a child in Scotland when all young girls had to learn to knit in school; when WWI started, ALL children had to learn to knit socks for the soldiers. It’s similar to Irish Cottage style, and has made my knitting faster and easier on my hands. She didn’t knit much in the years before she passed away, but I still have her needles & even a couple of projects that she never finished.
Kay said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm
My biggest knitting influence is probably Barbara Abbey. Her book was my only source for years!
Heather said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm
Ravelry in general, has had a huge influence on my knitting. I found my knitting group through Ravelry, and they are also a huge influence. Having a group of like-minded individuals to cheer you on and to inspire you is wonderful!
Kate said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:57 pm
EZ. No contest.
Carol said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
Right now -Independent dyers of fiber and my spinning wheel are my biggest influence on my knitting. I knit for a long time before I found out about the joys of hand-dyed batts and rovings. Otherwise, I have always challenged myself with new yarns, textures, techniques and projects.
Carrie Malpica said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
Hmmm….who has influenced my knitting the most? No one really! I see a pattern I like and if I am motivated to do it, I do it. I don’t have one particular favorite designer.
Alexis said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
My biggest influence on my knitting has been my friends. I first re-picked up knitting five years ago in order to meet people with a common interest. The people I’ve met and who have become part of my life have taught me so much about knitting and techniques and design, as well as just being fabulous people to have around.
Theresa P. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
Four women in my life have been the greatest influence on me becoming a knitter. First, my mother encouraged me to be a life-long learner. My sister, a knitter and crocheter all of her life, inspired me and held my hand through the process of relearning the basics. Then finally, when my twin daughters left the nest for college, I knew it was time to dive in head first. I have since taught myself to knit socks, sweaters, just about anything I put my mind to. I love challenging myself to learn new techniques and feel there’s nothing I can’t at least try. I may not be successful the first time, but I don’t let that stop me. Knitting has been a godsend in my life and I can’t imagine now how I lived without it all those years.
Cassandra said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:59 pm
My knitting group is a great inspiration every week when we meet. I feel that through this group I have grown as a knitter.
Cindy Petty said,
August 24, 2009 @ 7:59 pm
Like so many others, Elizabeth Zimmerman was one of those who most influenced me to expand my horizons. The others have been LYS like Loopy Ewe who provide such great service, advice, and yummy yarns!
Lisa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:00 pm
I would have to say Stephanie aka KnittingSamurai on Ravelry has had the biggest influence on my knitting. She started our local knitting group a couple of years ago and without that I might have been discouraged with my simple knitted items. Thanks Steph!
Anne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:01 pm
I suppose the first and biggest influence would be my mother and grandmother who taught my the basics of knitting and then provided excellent examples of the soothing effects of teh creative yarn process…..since then, the indy dyers who create gorgeous swirls of interesting color have driven my knitting habit!
Marianna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
My husband and family encourage my knitting but my friends influence it more.
Barbara said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
My mother, Ida Robinson Lowe Chan, taught me to knit when I was a young girl. She knitted socks for my dad during WWII. When I was growing up, she knit beautiful dresses with peplum tops and grand sweeping skirts in size 1 needles for both herself and me! She knit jackets, coats, trousers for my brother, and little sweaters and skirts for my favorite doll. Even when we were older, she knit multi-colored ski sweaters for my sister and me. My mom was an amazing knitter and seamstress. I am oh so sorry she didn’t keep some of her wonderful knitware. My daughter, now in college and a super creative knitter herself, would have loved to inherit my mom’s dresses!
Jo Anne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
My biggest influence on my knitting….my mother! Even though she can’t knit now because of her eye sight….I remember her knitting while I played with my toys or watched TV. Too bad ….I wasn’t “impressed” nor tried to learn from her…I just remembered the “sssssshhhhhh….” as she counted her stitches. My friends, Lisa and Karen keep me “in the loop” about current knitting trends…..and they are my source of inspiration. TLE keeps my “stash” up to date….and of course…Ravelry….it’s just the best source for information!
Jenna S said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
My biggest inspiration definitely is the ability to search patterns on Ravelry. I also love seeing everyone’s projects and reading their notes. It’s super helpful. Before Ravelry, I would say that most of my inspiration came from the patterns on knitty.com.
Judith Knowles said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
My sister and my niece both started knitting socks and were buying yarn from Loopy Ewe. I have always wanted to knit socks so they really got me started on socks. I would say that when I was small it was my grandmother that first taught me to knit.
Jan Shive said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
What influenced me the most was a picture of a norwegian vest in a magazine that I was reading. I was 12 at the time and recovering from rheumatic fever. Stuck at home in bed, I asked my mom to buy me a how to knitting book, the pattern, and some yarn. It was a five color vest. It went well, but the needle sizes were not us sizes in the pattern. My dad could have worn that vest. I knited off and on sporadically until I stopped by a yarn shop in Bel Air, Md. called Ewenique Yarns and I’m a knit nut now. And I’m a totally left handed knitter. Thanks for being so nice.
Ronni said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
Huh, Ravelry in general has the biggest influence on my knitting planning. As I read forums over there or see pattern ads, I end up adding patterns to my queue. Same with yarns, although TLE is an equal influence for yarns. Everytime you put up something new I am inspired to check it out. But in terms of my actual knitting, as in what I actually knit (which sadly is a great deal less than I queue), that’s a three way tie (at least) between Ravelry, Sock Madness, and my family members & friends for whom I do a lot of the knitting that I actually do.
kimberley said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
my biggest knitting influence had to be my grandmother. she was a lovely, talented and very stoic knitter who detested socks and would NOT knit them no matter how many times i begged!! she did however knit my cabbage patch doll a snow jacket and snow pants for her to join my out side in snowstorms!! she had excellent tension, even stiches and beautiful finished objects. i am honored when someone admires a piece that i have completed and they mention it looks like my grandmothers work. i miss her, we would have loved knitting together.
sara said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
Ravelry is my biggest influence. So many good ideas – and just a click to soooooo many blogs.
Gretch said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
You mean besides my Grandma H who taught me how when I was 5??? I think Meg Swanson. I hear myself saying “knitter’s choice” all the time! Love Meg S!
Yvonne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
Hmm can I have two people that have influenced me the most on my knitting? I say that because I cant decide between two. First is my Mom. I watched her a while before I started knitting and then while I was knitting scarves/dishcloths I watched her knit socks. I so wanted to knit socks. My other influence has to be Wendy of Wendy Knits. It was her book that she brought out this year that got me over that last struggle that I am now knitting socks. Her patterns are by far the best. I never dreamed that as this summer ends I have made pairs of socks with two almost done. What a difference is year makes.
Christine T said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
My biggest knitting influence in many ways would have to be my Mom. She came to live with my husband and I and our two small children when she was around 64 years old. She had crocheted for years, however never learned to knit. She loved the look of knit sweaters.
So I taught her to knit. I wouldn’t say it was easy for her, but she was determined, and ended up making multiple sweaters and afghans. To make up a sweater, I ended up writing out the line by line instructions, which she crossed off as she proceeded through the pattern. I would never have had the patience she had, and with her rheumatoid arthritis, it was not without pain. She didn’t know how to assemble them either, so I helped her with final finishing. The joy she had when she presented these sweaters and afghans, however, was the most amazing thing to see.
It was all worth it.
I originally learned to knit as a young teenager, when Mom would drive me to our 4H leader. which was many miles from our home. So really, she helped me learn to knit, and I was able to pay that lifelong lesson back to her in a way that left us both fulfilled.
She is now 90 years old, and is in a retirement home. Still, she remembers every one of those sweaters and afghans, and the love that went into every one. I only wish we had made one for me!
Cynthia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:04 pm
Ravelry peeps have been my biggest influence…especially those super knitters on the SYL group.
Steph said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:04 pm
Ravelry as a whole is my biggest inspiration!
christine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:04 pm
My aunt, the one who taught me how to knit. She taught me that knitting wasn’t just for making items and keeping them for yourself, but to be knit for others so that they will always think of you when they see their hand-made items.
Doris said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
My Mom taught me to knit when I was 7. Then in high school we knit an Aran sweater together. I did the sleeves and it saw me through college. She gave me German knitting mags to practice my German and my knitting took off; so did hers. She was designing sweaters and was in several magazines and even got me to get one in print.
Today she knits baby hats for hospitals and I teach knitting and spinning during lunch time at school. She taught me and I have taught hundreds of students and tell each one they have to pass it on. Recently, a check out girl recognized me told everyone I taught her to knit. All this because I was bored one summer and Mom taught me to knit. Thanks Mom!
Melissa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
The biggest influences on my knitting: the encouragement of my friends Laura and Kathy in the early days and always, and our local knitting group, the Payne County Knitters. We all encourage, support, and challenge each other and have a great time together.
CindyS said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
I feel weird saying this, but I think the internet as a whole has been my biggest inspiration and influence. I learned to knit almost exactly three years ago, and without the videos on KnittingHelp.com and YouTube, without the pattern database on Ravelry, and without the in-person knitting friends I met via Ravelry groups I don’t think I would be as prolific, if not talented, a knitter as I am today.
Anne Kaelber said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
Who has had the biggest influence on my knitting? I’d say three people. First, my Mom because she found a pamphlet by Coats & Clark (published circa the 60s, I’d say) that teaches lefties to knit. If not for this pamphlet, I would have given up and never looked back.
Since then, the greatest influence has been Cat Bordhi for her socks on 2 circulars method — how cool is it that I can knit socks? — and Renee Leverington (aka Goddess Knits) for her lace patterns which have taught me a lot about designing and knitting lace! The socks are for others, the lace is for me, so there’s something for everyone!
Now, I’ve passed Mom in knitting knowledge…and she called *me* for help! That’s just the best feeling in the world!
Anne.
Catherine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
It was the gals in North Rockefeller Hall at Mount Holyoke College in 1981-82 who probably had the biggest influence on my knitting. That’s when I went from knitting random parallelograms to knitting actual garments that could be worn by human beings. We all knit in the TV room watching “General Hospital,” making raglan pullovers in Candide or Icelandic sweaters in Lopi, because that was about all the LYS had to offer. But it changed my knitting life.
Knitty Keen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
I would have to say Elizabeth Zimmerman – she helped me move beyond patterns and gave me a lot of the foundations to make almost anything I want in the way I want to.
Jean said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
I think the Yarn Harlot has had a great influence in my knitting. Not only is her blog and books so fun to read, but I found her willingness to talk about frogging projects with humour encouraging. It helped me understand that I needed to have patience with my learning curve and not give up too soon.
Angie Martinez said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
The biggest influence on me and my knitting has got to be my wonderful, amazing, and talented sister-in-law. We live on opposite sides of the country, and rarely get to spend any quality time together. On a visit several years ago I sat in amazement as she sat and turned a ball of ’string’ into a sock before my very eyes. I was enthralled. A few months later I decided to take the plunge and taught myself to knit as well. She was there (via the internet, of course!) to encourage me through my first horrible attempts, and even convinced me to try my first sock (my third ever project!) Without her I never would have given knitting a try, and now I’m a full fledged yarnie!
Jennie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:07 pm
Ravelry as a whole influences me to keep on knitting! I see pattern after pattern on top of yarn and then more yarn that I must try!
As you said (I think in your last post) there just isn’t enough time to make all of the things I want!
Tucky Sancibrian said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:08 pm
My Mom taught me to knt when I was about 8-10 years old and now at 73 am still knitting. I stopped several years ago but when we retired and moved to South Carolina I took it up again and love it – my favorite – Socks and more socks. on two circular needles.
Alison said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:08 pm
I taught myself how to knit socks using Terri’s socks 101 tutorial, no longer online (I think). So she definitely had a big influence on my knitting!
Connie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
I love the patterns at Chicknit. I have made several of Bonne Marie’s designs.
Ronni said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
Oooh, I should add, in terms of a single individual, it would have to be my mom’s cousin. Who was an awesome knitter! After the first time my husband and I visited her nearly 2 decades ago now, she knit for my husband an Aran sweater of her own design after measuring his chest and arm length! It arrived in far less time than any human could think possible and it fit him beautifully – which being long and thin most things didn’t. That inspired me to take knitting up again although I never thought I could do anything like as well. The two things I am proudest of knitting wise so far are the shawls I made for her when she was ill. And I am very glad I got to knit for her before she died.
VickiB said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
My mother got me started when we had a yarn store together but ever since Ravelry, I am truly addicted!
Erin M. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
I would say knit bloggers and beautiful yarn.
Marji said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
My knitting friend is certainly there when I need her, but Ravelry has been a big influence as well as my growing library. I’ll take help and/or suggestions wherever I can get it!
Lilly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
I know many people are going to say this, but there’s actually two knitters who have influenced me a lot: Elizabeth Zimmermann and Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.
EZ was nothing if not a genius; she wasn’t afraid to “unvent”, and her daringness has made me think “hey, I can do that!” and to challenge the status-quo when knitting. Stephanie Pearl-McPhee has taught me, mainly, to not take knitting (or myself) too seriously and that, as she says in her books, there are no knitting police and no one will die from a knitting mistake. I don’t think I’d be the knitter (or Knitter) that I am if it weren’t for the both of them, especially being from a country where very few people knit
Gini said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
Wow, just everything out there in knitting land influences me, for instance sales influence my knitting, along with beautiful yarn and fun patterns and great people, wonderful classes, even great knitting trips, love it all !!!!
Anna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
I started knitting because my mother did, although we never did discuss knitting. I ended up with her magazines and needles after she died and unfinished projects too. Recently my sock knitting has been rekindled by wendyknits and Ravelry has opened up a whole new world!
Nori said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
Without a doubt, the Yarn Harlot. I loved knitting before reading her blog and books, but exposure to her philosophies on knitting dramatically changed the way I knit, particularly the “some people collect rocks” rant (made me feel ok about buying beautiful art yarn for it’s own sake) and the notion that being a knitter is like being a craftsman, and you want to have a lot of techniques in your arsenal (you wouldn’t hire a carpenter who could only do dovetailing, so you might not want to be the type of knitter who can only do one type of decrease, etc.).
Aimee said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
Wendy Johnson. I knit a lot. I knit an awful lot. I knit everything. And before Wendy and I became good friends, I did a little designing. But Wendy has inspired me to design more. This summer I have finished 2 sock projects and a pair of fingerless gloves with 3 more socks, a cowl and another pair of fingerless gloves on the way. she has given me friendship and support when I needed it and while she may not know this, she has help lift my heart and unblock my creative thoughts. And I will always love her for that.
valerie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
i like things to be fast and i hate blocking, so i’d say my impatience is the biggest influence on my knitting. i’ve knit dozens of hats, scarves, mittens, gloves and (obviously) socks, but only one sweater. i don’t have the patience!
Sue said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
Two major influences: first, my Mom. She taught me how to knit, and every time I try something new, she is the recipient of the first ‘gift’ — whether slippers or beaded scarf or clapotis. She is so incredibly encouraging. Just as influencial on a daily–sometimes hourly –basis is Ravelry. And at the top of the list, the Loopy Ravelers. Please know how thankful I am to know and learn from you all, even though I’ve never met most of you.
Jane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
Let’s see, my maternal grandmother taught me to knit when I was about 9 or 10. She lived out of state, so a neighbor helped me when I had problems (which was often). I think my current knitting buddies are my special angels who knit with me, listen to my problems and have helped me with my both my knitting and the problems.
Pamela said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
My biggest inspiration, the single person who inspired me to pick up the needles as an adult and has fostered my growth as a knitter and yarn snob, is my dear friend Shells. Without her I would not have found the artisan community, Ravelry, The Loopy Ewe, sock yarn, wool, alpaca, hand-dyed yarn, etc. You name it, she showed me. The best part is that I’ve made a friend for life. We will be meeting in person for the first time in just a couple of weeks at Stitches Midwest and I must admit that will outshine the marketplace completely (but I’m still excited about the marketplace too!).
amy lounsberry said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:12 pm
my sister – she’s all about the yarn, knitting and everything that goes with it.
Anne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:12 pm
My friend Jocelyn, the Knitting Linguist, has been the most powerful influence on my knitting life in this go-round (the other person I could name would be my Nana, who taught me to knit — I wonder what she would think of Ravelry and all that?)
pikkle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
I think it’s a tie between my knitting teacher at my LYS (for proper techniques) and the Malabrigo Swap group. They are an amazing group of ladies!
Donna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
First off, I love the way the color came out on the that sock in the picture. My Mom taught me to knit (about three times), but I get a lot of encouragement from knitting blogs. Seeing Stephanie keep going on a project she just feels is wrong and then frogging the whole thing and wisdom from the Samurai Knitter after she hahs a bag experience is very empowering. Plus the blogs all show great yarn and great projects.
jean j Zwang said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
I have always pretty much been on my own with my knitting. I have a sister-in-law who works in a craft store, but she really isn’t into knitting either. Just me and my shadow!
jj
Marie (selkie_B) said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:14 pm
Most influence? My friends and fellow fiber artists – no question – followed closely by Ravelry.
Word Lily said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:14 pm
I’ve got plenty of knitting influences, but I think the goals I’ve set for myself — skills I want to learn/try, ways I want to challenge myself, things I want to make — are my biggest knitting influence. But I might be wrong.
Ellie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:15 pm
I would say EZ and ravelry.
Michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:15 pm
Maybe the lady who first taught me to knit. We were both secretaries at a university, both watched the same lunchtime soap opera, and both had babies.
Maybe my grandmother who did many fiber crafts and had me crocheting lace when I was 7.
The biggest influence is not a person, but the internet. There are few knitters where I live, so I knitted alone for the most part until I started finding groups and stores on the net. It’s amazing what a difference it makes to be able to talk about your craft, even if it is not face to face.
Tracey said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:15 pm
I am going to to have to say that Ravelry as a whole has been a huge influence in inspiring and giving me the information and the confidence to try new techniques and projects. As a self taught knitter and the only one in my group of friends who does- the support and knowledge that Ravelry offers is an invaluable gift and resource.
Amy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:15 pm
It’s not just one person, it would have to be all the great people at my LYS that always inspire me!
Amy
Liz G. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:16 pm
My biggest influences are the Rockstars – Tasha, Dawn, Amy and Sherilyn! They are amazing, fearless knitters – and so many times I just sit back and watch them work.
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:17 pm
I would have to say Ravelry is my biggest knitting influence. I am constantly inspired by different designers and other ravelers.
karen monroe said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:17 pm
Two people the Web site Wooly Wonka Fibers for their lace yarn club and the designer Miriam Felton. She got me into lace and I really enjoy it. Karen
Marcia Drew said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:17 pm
I’d have to say one friend in particular, my LYS, and Ravelry – probably in that order. My friend challenges me, helps me over the bumps, and keeps finding the most delicious projects. My LYS keeps me connected and gives me the chance to fondle yarn. And finally, Ravelry has opened up my world to everyone out there who shares my love of yarn and producing lovely things.
Christel said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:18 pm
It’s hard say exactly who has had the greatest influence on my knitting. My mother-in-law is the only one in my family who knits and she didn’t pick her knitting back up until after I did! The Loopy Ewe and other web sites/bloggers have certainly inspired me to learn more, try new things and not be afraid of those little needles!
Thanks, Sheri, and all the rest of you out there who post your successes and admit to taking things to the “frog pond”. The Loopy Ravelry group has been so much fun and it never ceases to amaze me how many projects some of you crank out!!
Happy Knitting everyone!
LindaM said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
It would be a 3-way tie, I think. My friend Cindy, who back in ‘80 exposed me to knitting again, many years after my grandmother taught me at age 8. Then there’s Issy – she and I have the same passion for lace and beautiful yarn (and unfortunately, stash enhancement)… Then there’s my TNK-ers – my Tuesday night knitting group, of which every member is a treasure! We’re all fiber addicts and love every minute of it!!!
Jan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
My mother never learned how to knit. She tried crocheting when she was a young girl and concluded that she didn’t have the patience for needle arts. However, when I was seven years old, she arranged for me to spend summer afternoons with a neighbor lady who had just learned to knit and was anxious to teach others. Once I knew the basics, my mother would help me find simple projects in her ladies’ magazines and we would go shopping together to pick out supplies. My mother proudly wore the uneven headbands and crooked scarves I turned out, giving me the encouragement to continue and improve. My mother also often wore lacey shawls that were famiIy heirlooms made by her Danish grandmother and great aunt. The desire to mimick these beautiful shawls, as well as my mother’s fashion sense, influenced me to learn more complicated stitch patterns. Forty years later, I continue to pursue “old world” style patterns and to wear heirloom style clothing and hand made accessories… so I can be like my mother… who never learned to knit!
Suzanne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
My mother, who died in 1991, is still my greatest influence. Knitting was one of the few activities we shared, and each time I select a pattern or a yarn or begin or end a project, I imagine that she is sitting or standing nearby, aware of what I’m up to, and smiling.
Julianne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
Right now my daughter has the biggest influence on my knitting! Just about everything I knit is for her. I find so many great patterns and I just have to knit them before she’s too big to wear it!
Ann said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
The person who had the biggest iinfluence on my knitting was my Knitting One instructor. I took the beginning class and three more to make specific items. Her goal was to wean us from her by teaching us what we needed to learn. She still helps if I run into something unique.
We need more instructors like her.
Knit Witch said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
1800 comments??? Holy cow! You are going to have to hire someone just to read the blog comments!
I would say that the biggest influence on my knitting has been my knitting circle of friends. They are always so willing to share information, challenge me to learn something new and remind me that this is such a wonderful social hobby. Before I met them and walked into the “huge world of knitting” I liked knitting, they have really made me love it! Going to the shows and connecting with the customers at our booth is really great too. We always have so much fun that it hardly seems like work most of the time.
Diana T said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
I would have to say that the biggest influences are my knitting group buddies. They totally rock!
Zoe said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
Fashion in general – runway & couture designers – influence my knitting more than anything else. I love to see something on the runway that makes me wonder how it was made, which in turn makes me get out my needles and see what I can do, whether it is similar to the design I’ve just seen or has inspired something completely different! The more things I see, the more ideas I get, and the more ideas I start to develop, the more they generate new ideas! Pretty soon I can’t sleep for all the knitting going on in my brain.
Shelley said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
There have been several influences over my long knitting career, but I would say the best and continuing influence is my good buddy Andrea. We met at Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Knitting Camp in the 80’s, when we were in cinderblock dorm rooms. We have been each others shoulder to cry on and go to persons for over 20 years I am blessed.
Susan Foster said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
My mother. She never finished anything. She loved to knit, loved to shop for yarn, loved to start projects. When she died ( in her 90s in 1997) I inherited her house and in every drawer and closet were unfinished knitting projects. Sweaters she started for us when we went to college ( in the 50s and 60s). I knit two projects at a time. A road project.. socks or a scarf, and a stay at home project, sweater or shawl. I don’t start a new project til the last is done.
Crystal said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:22 pm
Hmmmm… The biggest influence?? First I started knitting because I had this weird desire to, I was 22 (I think?). That summer was when things really took off. I saw a pattern in Interweave Knits that I absolutely MUST knit. I showed it to my mom, she thought it was “ambitious” as I had just taught myself to knit in January via the internet. It took all summer, but I ended up with a beautiful “Ribs and Lace Tank” that fit! It was the best feeling ever.
Of course, writers like Stephanie Pearl-McPhee have definitely helped in keeping me addicted (as if I need help). And the wonderful ladies that I met at a local SnB. They were so welcoming and kind it wasn’t even funny. I’ve learned so much from them that goes past knitting I don’t know what I would do without them. If only I had more time to hang out and knit (this work thing sure gets in the way).
Really, it’s a whole bunch of influences. All the cute, adorable, wonderful patterns, and the writers who keep me knitter-tained while I can’t knit (ahem – work?). And, what can I say? Without Ravelry? Where would I be?
Bonney said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:22 pm
My greatest influence was my grandmother. She did beautiful handiwork and it was flawless. She was patient in her teaching and never hesitated to rip something out that wasn’t going well. She knew dozens of patterns by heart having knit for her 6 sons and their many children and THEIR many children. Now my biggest influence is people around me that I love to knit for. Especially new babies!!
Tasha said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
The biggest single influence on my knitting is RAVELRY as a whole, so I guess it’s all the other knitters out there. I can spend literally hours surfing for projects & the supply of gorgeous knits is literally limitless. I think I’ve developed a good sense of pairing yarn to a project – sometimes a pattern speaks to me, sometimes it’s the yarn & my favorite part of the process is putting them together to make something beautiful.
I didn’t read any other comments before I posted this so I wouldn’t steal someone else’s answer, but I went back & looked & see I’m not alone.
Thanks for supplying so much great yarn for us to make our knitting great.
Mokihana said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting?
My friend Linda has had a huge influence in my life, teaching me that “design elements” are okay in knitting… she’s encouraged me to try things that I don’t think I’d have tried without her gentle encouragement. She’s given me the confidence to keep trying even when I was having a terrible time with sleeve decreases and helped me figure out the math to make my first sweater come out great.
The other has to be Ravelry. I have learned so much from the friendly people there; if I post a question everyone is so happy to help and offer suggestions. Because I can see what others’ finished projects look like, I have said, “I can do that!”
Jan Hamby said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
I have to say it was my sister, twinsetellen. She mailed some yarn, dpns and a sock pattern to me while I was on deployment in Baghdad and said, “learn to knit socks.” So I did…and realized that I could really get my hands and my heart around this “knitting thing.” Thanks, Ellen!
Linda Brannen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
The person who’s had the post influence in the past couple of years, has to be Carla Esden Tempska. Her influence started when she still had her shop, Chez Casuelle. She still continues to influence me with her ideas. She has such a sense of what’s now and style.
Shirley Ryan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
I think the internet has had the greatest influence on my knitting I’ve been a member of knitting forums =, it seems like forever. Way back to whenever Prodigy was alive. I don’t even know how that started!
Shirley
JillsKnit said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
A friend of our family owned a yarn shop when I was in high school/college and I worked for her part time. She introduced me to EZ and good yarn. She also encouraged me to develop my skills including designing.
Tamara Z. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
I would have to say myself. There are alot of online friends that have answered questions and such but I am really proud of myself for learning how to knit by myself. I was determined to do it and through every error and dropped stitch I stuck with it and now I can’t imagine life without knitting. I know you’ll understand that, most people would think I am off my rocker for saying that but knitting has brought me alot of joy.
Sherri said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:24 pm
My great-aunt lived next door to us and stayed with me after school. I grew up watching her crochet (with fine thread) and tat. Even though she didn’t knit, she fostered in me an interest in making things by hand (and she taught me to crochet!). Also as a child, I was fascinated by watching a woman who did weaving in the restoration area in St. Augustine, Fla., the very talented Anne Marie Lunestad, who became a friend – she could do anything fiber-related and do it beautifully. Like my aunt, she inspired in me a value for hand work. But I learned to knit from books and have never met the women who were my guides and inspirations in this particular craft – Sally Melville (because I started to learn about the time her Knit Stitch came out – the photos were a wonderful help), Maggie Righetti (Knitting in Plain English) and Barbara Walker. The first two got me going and after the training wheels came off, so to speak, Barbara Walker cotinues to inspire me. Her stitch books are wonderful sparks to make me imagine what I could do with this yarn, this pattern, how I could make myself a garment that I want, getting drape from this pattern, adding a touch of lace with that, etc., etc., etc.
inky said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:24 pm
Without a doubt, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee. Her gentle way of encouraging knitters to keep on, since there’s no “knitting police,” and her no-fail sock, hat, and scarf “recipes” have turned my confidence about knitting into the upper levels! Couple that with her wicked sense of humor and it makes knitting a real pleasure.
Cindy (maxfun) said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:24 pm
Just the desire to make pretty things from sticks and strings was my first influence. Once I got going, the Yarn Harlot was influential in getting past the fear of “doing it wrong” and thinking that socks were too hard.
Now, I’d say there are several influences. Ravelry certainly ranks high. My weekly knitting group is a source of constant inspiration and support. And now that I’m doing some designing of my own, people giving me yarn to design with are a big influence.
Tracy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:24 pm
Grandma. I learned to knit from her and have learned to appreciate the importance of doing things well and not being bound by patterns. She taught me to knit when I was so young that I don’t even REMEMBER learning to knit! I had a very long hiatus from knitting (almost 30 years) and Grandma was so thrilled when I started to knit again and gave her a pair of socks I made for her. She never wore the socks (said they were too special) and kept them on her dining room table for months to show to anyone who came by. Grandma is the origin of 4 generations of knitters in our family – she paid someone to teach her in the 1930s because there were no knitters among her family or friends! While knitting ended up being fun for her, it really started as a way to cope with the Depression and add to her wardrobe. She marvelled that I knit socks, but I am amazed at the hundreds of sweaters she must have knit in her lifetime (no joke…hundreds). Knitting kept her mind sharp well into her 90s – she is still with us, but no longer knits
Beverly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
My Plurk.com friends have had the biggest influence on my knitting in the past year. They are constantly posting FO pics, and links to patterns or sales. Plus, they cheer me on when I am in the frog pond, and help me when I feel lost in a project.
Ravelry is a very close second.
Allison said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
My biggest knitting influence would have to be my knitting group in grad school that introduced me to ravelry which has certainly influenced me since. I’m constantly involved in swaps and KAL all thanks to rav.
Vinnie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
Cookie A is was my biggest influence. I saw her on Knitty-Gritty (on DYI network), then googled her, found her blog, then Ravelry, and a whole new world. Until then, I just knit sock with worsted wt and size 7s and stockinette stitch. wow, what an eye-opener!
Esta Campbell said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:26 pm
My first influence was my grand mother who taught me when I was little. But it changes all of the time. As I find new patterns and techniques on ravelry my inspirations and influences change.
Robin Pearce said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:27 pm
I had just knit a couple of scarves when I took the plunge and took a sock class at a knitting store. After that I started reading blogs and buying yarn and learning what was out there.
Sandy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:27 pm
My mother has influeneced every part of my life including my knitting. She never knitted herself, however she crocheted and created her own stitch pattern for blankets she made for my sister, brother, and me. Everytime I look a pattern that I like I know that if she was still around she would try to steal my finished project.
Ann said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:28 pm
I have to say that Kelly, the owner of my LYS, Double Ewe Yarn shop, has had the most influence on my knitting. She’s the one that believed in me and encouraged me to start teaching knitting at the shop and I’ve found that I love it and my students.
Emily said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:28 pm
Well, Deb Stoller taught me how to knit, so I’m going to go with her. (OK OK, I learned through her book, not her herself.)
But I also have 2 friends who were knitting long before I took it up, and they each contributed to my addiction in their own way. One friend tried to teach me once – I think I knit 2 or 3 stitches and thought it was hard – and the other introduced me to Stitch n Bitch.
Vicki said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:29 pm
The whole knitting community on Ravelry, the knitting bloggers and the knitting podcasters all influence my knitting. So, I guess the internet would really be the biggest influence on my knitting. I often think, “What would my knitting be like if there wasn’t the internet?” No video tutorials, no going to fiber festivals or sock summit via people’s blogs or podcasts, no designs to queue, and no looking at other’s projects to determine what yarn I should use.
Marti said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:30 pm
My friends who knit are my biggest influences. They provide me with a steady stream of inspiration, ideas, and yarn lust!
Joyce said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:30 pm
Well….I don’t think I can pick just one. I taught myself to knit from a pamphlet. Most of what I’ve learned I’ve taught myself. However, I do listen to many podcasts, read many blogs and have a growing collection of books. Perhaps Ravelry has done the most for my knitting. I am always inspired by seeing what others have done.
Lisa in Los Angeles said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has to be a tie between Ravelry and TLE. No, I’m not kidding. I hop on Rav, and see all these gorgeous photos of finished projects, yummy yarn and KALs, and then I get my regular e-mail from Sheri, touting the latest must-have yarns and patterns. Thanks to Sheri, I’m knitting a Girasole, got to try Wollmeise and Numma Numma and Casbah and Smooshy and Malabrigo….and….and….and…the list is endless.
Thanks for your nice note on my last order about my “nice husband.” He laughed outloud when he saw it!
Mimi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm
Remember the little old lady in Italy that was rescued from her collapsed home, and when asked how she stayed calm, she motioned that she’d been knitting? SHE is my inspiration.
Sharon Rose said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm
My biggest influence doesn’t knit – she’s my husband’s ex. She’s a real Martha Stewart, and since I don’t even cook I was feeling pretty intimidated. When she said she was a crochetter, but never learned to knit since it was “too hard,” well… I had to learn. It was the stupidest reason ever, but I’m glad it happened.
That was 8 years ago and I’m a total addict.
Collette said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm
Can I just choose the internet?
I retaught myself to knit using books and the internet about 7 years ago and I love trolling around looking for new patterns and seeing what people do. Ravelry has been really fun because I can see what other people have already done with a yarn I have in my stash or I can see how a particular pattern I’ve found has turned out for a bunch of different people. And I love reading knit bloggers and seeing what people who are way more advanced than me can come up with. So, the internet it is!
Jean said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm
I would have to thank my friends that I made in our Knitting Guild and our Knit Ins we have every Monday from 11 to 2 at one of our Homes. We have a lot of fun talking and Knitting together and helping each other. Jean
Jane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:33 pm
My biggest influence is all my knitting friends. They inspire me and push me and challenge me and encourage me and cheer me. Ravelry is also a big influence for the same reasons. Actually, many of my knitting friends are friends on Ravelry so perhaps that is why.
Cheryl Brozovich said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:33 pm
My motivation to start knitting was actually jealousy.
My husband had started woodworking and was spending lots of time and money on his new hobby – I wanted to create something cool too – went to JoAnn’s and bought a “teach yourself to knit” book and the rest is history.
As far as actual knitting influences, I would have to say the wonderful online knitting community that has developed over the past years. I have learned most of what I know about knitting from poking around on the internet and spending WAY TOO MUCH TIME on sites like Knitty and Ravelry and a countless number of inspirational knitting blogs!
Susan in Dayton Ohio said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:33 pm
Lately, my husband is my biggest knitting influence. His feet are cold, so I knit socks for him. Hubby didn’t really get my knitting fixation until his cold feet went into his first pair of hand-knit socks. Now, he encourages me to shop for yarn and try new projects. Must be love.
Celestine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:33 pm
My Mother was my biggest influence to learn how to knit.. I never saw my mother knit nor did she teach me. She encouraged me to learn new crafts and shared her appreciation of hand made items. My fondest memories of working with yarn was when I was five and Mom taught me how to crochet baby booties for her soon to be baby and my soon to be sister. I just recently lost my Mother, but everytime I pick up yarn I get that wonderful warm fuzzy feeling.
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:34 pm
Knitty.com has had the greatest influence on my knitting.
My mother taught me to knit some 20? 30? 40? years ago, but I was never able to turn out anything that I would want to wear, so I abandoned the hobby in my 20’s. Not too long ago, with the kids now grown and gone, one of my volunteer pastimes waning into the sunset, and a mostly-absent husband (due to career influences), I ran across Knitty. It was the great epiphany for me — now it’s socks and sweaters and baby blankets!
Socks! I never imagined I’d knit socks! I never imagined I’d wear hand-knit socks! Now I have people asking me to make them socks!! I actually have a stash, 3 projects on the needles — and making progress toward completing them!
Jen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:34 pm
My Aunt is the one of initially inspired me to want to knit in the first place. She is always making something for someone in the family. My 3 girls each get sweaters, skirts, etc from her at Christmas every year.
But my friend Amy keeps me going. We egg each other on with “well I learned this technique today you should try it too!” comments to each other. Or to see who can get the biggest stash built up of the best yarns ever. She is the one who encouraged me to give knitting another try when I retaught myself over a year ago now. And now I have finally convinced her to knit socks!
LIzzyJaine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:35 pm
Do I have to pick just one??? That’s tough! The Friday Knit Night group at the Sheep Shack definitely encourage my habit. We all enable each other in this addiction. Knitting is the first thing that has made me consider changing professions….that’s in part due to all of the people I’ve met, classes I’ve taken with regular folks and the famous, and Ravelry….I can’t imagine my life without knitting. It’s opened a whole new world. DId that answer the question? How about this….all of the incredible people I’ve met in person and online influence my knitting.
Abby M said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:35 pm
Well Sheri, it’s hard to say who the most influencial person has been on my knitting. But 2 people come to mind. My friend Fluffy-head. Who introduced me to the Stitch N Bitch Books via Nation. And told me that knitting community is out there if you look!
Then there’s my mom, who never knit within my memory, but has pushed my knitting experiences into new realms that I never thought possible. Because of her I made my first grown-up sweater and cables!
You didn’t answer this question! You simply must share!
Teresa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:35 pm
The Internet has definitely been the biggest influence on my knitting. I am self-taught, and the wealth of yarn, patterns and tutorials available have encouraged me to try new things and branch out in my knitting. I also have to mention the Yarn Harlot for her humor and common sense advice, and Jared Flood of Brooklyn Tweed for his beautiful patterns and photography.
Josiane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:38 pm
There are quite a few persons who have had a big influence on my knitting. First, the friend who taught me how to knit when I was a kid. We were in primary school, and she had a sweater she had knit herself; that was inspiring! Then, my ex’s aunt who re-taught me how to knit when I wanted to get back to it. She got me started with a pattern (for baby booties) right away, thus teaching me that I’d be fine no matter what: I just had to follow the instructions, and learn the new stitches as they were coming up. Finally, finding the amazing community of knit bloggers has had a huge influence on my knitting too. Oh, one more: me! One thing I did that has had a huge influence on my knitting was teaching myself how to knit in English (I had learned in French, my first language). That opened a whole new world of possibilities!
Nancy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:38 pm
The sweet German lady at the Senior Center (my first job) that taught me to knit continental style which was how knitting “clicked” for me was my first influence. Probably what has really fueled my knitting lifestyle though are blogs like the Yarn Harlot, Sandi Wiseheart at Knitting Daily, and the brilliance that is Ravelry (thanks Jess & Casey!).
Bertha said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:38 pm
I would say Ravelry as a whole has had the biggest impact on my knitting. It’s really changed my life. Before I’d spend hours scouring the web & blogs for a certain pattern, or to see how a certain yarn colorway knit up…I think I spent more time searching for the information I wanted than I did knitting! Now I can find out everything I need to know about a yarn or pattern in a matter of seconds. It’s made getting to the actual act of knitting a lot quicker, though of course I tend to get sucked into the rav vortex often, which can also take time away from knitting, but I honestly don’t think I’d have knit a fraction of the things I’ve knit in the last 2 years without Ravelry. It’s a constant source of inspiration and information!
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:39 pm
I have two influences: Winnie and Judy. Winnie because she works in a yarn shop and is extremely talented and Judy because she took up knitting relatively recently (like me). Oh, and Darlene in Alabama because she tells me it’s OK to have a yarn stash that will probably outlive me!
Darlene G said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:41 pm
My biggest kniting influence has been my local knitting meet-up group. I’m somewhat of a newbie, and when I say I don’t think I have the skills to try something new, they encourage, push and help me along.
Camilla said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:41 pm
Ravelry has had the greatest influence on my knitting development- with all the information, patterns, ideas, pictures (you get the idea). My local knitting group also has a very strong influence on keeping me interested and enthusiastic (they are just a wonderful group of people!)
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:41 pm
Ravelry is by far the biggest knitting inspiration I have ever known. The pattern and yarn information alone are mind-boggling wonderful.
LauraL said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:41 pm
So many great knitting people, but my Aunty Alice is the one who got me started and encouraged me in the tenuous beginning years.
Beth said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:41 pm
the knitting community on Ravelry.. I don’t have local knitting friends, so my e-pals keep me going. Happy Anniversary!!!
Jamie H said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:42 pm
The ladies in my local knitting group are a big influence to me. It is so fun to see what they knit. I am a beginner still so it just makes me want to keep learning so I can make the cool things they do!
Whitney said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:42 pm
There has not been one single person that has influenced … in fact it has been many. My biggest influence has been the many many blogs that I read on the internet along with ravelry. I am daily inspired and love to see what others are doing.
Sharon said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:43 pm
My mother was a self taught knitter and she taught me to knit,but I didn’t catch the bug until I was a highschool student in Norway. Every one knit in class and everyone wore these gorgeous sweaters. I made it through pre-med in college and med school with my knitting. I am so glad that it is becoming so popular and less geeky. My 11 year old daughter just knit her first hat without a real pattern or help this past weekend. She is my new hero.
Ringed Dragon said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
I’m a sock knitting fiend, and I find that Cookie A.’s patterns speak to me the most. Even when I don’t know it’s a Cookie pattern, I see the picture or the actual item, love it, and then find out that it’s a Cookie pattern.
Teresa Thornborough said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been Vicki Howell, the host of Knitty Gritty. I loved watching her show on DIY, and I’m so sad that it’s not on anymore. Her and her guests gave me the confidence to challenge myself, and I learned so many things from her show.
Dawn in ND said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
I’ve always been crafty-minded but after my divorce I was looking for things that my 10-yr old daughter and I could do together. We took a beginning knitting class at our local LYS – it’s 5 years ago already! Katie, our teacher and the owner of Sage Junction Yarns, gave us the bug. Katie has definitely encouraged and enabled us. Another friend, Lori, has truly pushed me into more and more challenging projects, how else would I have cast on for a sweater?!?! Those 2 have really been patient and offered their help whenever I got stuck and they have been a big influence, but I would have to say that I wouldn’t be NEARLY as addicted to knitting without my friend Kathy’s influence. We knit nearly every day at lunch at work (and I’m really going to miss it with my last day of work in 2 weeks!) We are actually doing a mini-KAL of the milkweed shawl that we spotted in one of your Sock Summit photos here!
Rosemarie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:46 pm
No one in my immediate family or friends is a knitter. I learned to knit at age 6 in an orphanage and came back to it at ages 15, 21 and 50! My biggest influence has been this dynamic knitting community on the web, EZ’s books, and Yarnharlot’s blog. She in particular has inspired me through her books and made me understand that knitting can be more than just a hobby; how about a way of life?!
Melissa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:46 pm
Hmm, biggest influence? Ravelers – all of them! It hasn’t been one particular person or group (or even a few!), but the time I spend scrolling through tons of projects and yarns and reading everyone’s comments always gives me so many ideas for new things to try. It can be dangerous for the checkbook, but it’s definitely always inspiring!
Marilyn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:47 pm
I have two bloggers I follow – A Friend to Knit With and Philigry. If they knit it, I have to knit it too. Very talented girls who inspire me daily.
Katrina said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:47 pm
Definitely Ravelry has been the biggest influence on my knitting! I love it and spend entirely way too much time there. In fact, I would knit a lot more if it wasn’t for that!
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:48 pm
I don’t know many knitters in real life, so I have to say all of my virtual knitting friends are my largest influences! Between blogs, Ravelry and Flickr, I’m constantly inspired by the many, many projects they share online. In fact, it was a knitting blog that inspired me to start knitting in the first place, so without the internet, I may not have become a knitter at all!
Holly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:49 pm
Probably Susan Anderson, of Itty Bitty hats. Her blog is a window on her creative process. And her patterns encourage jumping off. It’s the first time I’ve really felt I could make up my own designs.
Linda Rich said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:49 pm
Overall, I think the knitters on Aranknit and KBTH(Knitting Beyond the Hebrides) chatlists have had the most influence on my knitting. They’ve inspired me, introduced me to ideas and techniques that would have taken so many more years for me to discover. I’ve learned about designing, fibers, style, and have a vision of what may be possible if I work very hard
JoAnn-WI said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:50 pm
It has to be my LYS owner and good friend, Beth. She owns The Black Purl in Wausau, WI and is always there to help in times of need and encourage when I’m in doubt.
Patricia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:50 pm
I have to say that my biggest influence is my friend Julie. She is my SYFF (sock yarn friend forever). She does not let me get away with the ” I can’t fo that” syndrome. Since she has been knitting with me my stash has grown exponentially and so has my confidence.
Kristi ~ Ohio said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:50 pm
Many people have influenced my knitting. My grandma, my friends on Ravelry, the friends I’ve met at the Spring Fling, Wendy Johnson, and without a doubt The Loopy Ewe. An unsuspecting person who has influenced me is my DH. He always tells me “YOU CAN DO IT” when I think a new pattern or technique is beyond me. He never has a problem with me purchasing (too much) yarn. He’s been rewarded with lots of pairs of socks
Diann said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:50 pm
Elizabeth Zimmerman has been the greatest influence on my knitting.
Barbara Penn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:51 pm
Other than the Scottish lady who was my knitting teacher for three years, the person who has had the most influence on my knitting was the surgeon who botched my hand surgery and cut the median nerve in my wrist. It left me with 2 1/2 numb fingers plus 1/2 of my left hand. I already had nerve damage to my right hand to boot. I was determined to continue to knit if it hare-lipped the boogeyman and fortunately I found an article called “Multicultural Knitting Styles” in Interweave Knits; it said that Eastern Combined Uncrossed style was easy on the hands so I taught myself how to do it using their article and the description from Mary Thomas’ famous knitting book. It is without a doubt the easiest way to knit; I know German style continental and American/English throw-the-yarn style and I’ll take E.C.U. any day of the week! It has been 8 yrs. now & I love it.
Marie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:52 pm
My mother always encouraged creativity and handiwork. Before I was old enough to have my own babysitting money, I had done stamped cross stitch, crewel embroidery and paint by numbers, had learned to crochet and sew. So she must have been buying the supplies! My mother also knitted but I never learned from her. I took lessons from my LYS and have been learning (mostly from the internet) and gaining confidence ever since. So even though she didn’t teach me, my mother, through her encouragement to try new things, would have to be my biggest influence.
Mim said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
The ladies in my knitting group encourage and push me to try something new. Ravelry has been a huge influence. Seeing all the different projects is so inspiring. People like Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, Susan B. Anderson, The Mason-Dixon Ladies, and lots of bloggers out there creating and pushing the limits of knitting. What a great time to be a knitter!
Nancy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
I just sort of keep knitting. I love all the new and interesting yarns, especially hand-dyed ones. I’ve been knitting for 40 years. My local yarn stores have all influenced my knitting by continually supplying me with yarns I just can’t resist to knit. Right now I’m into knitting socks. I found all sorts wonderful hand-dyed yarns at the Sock Summit.
Wasie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
That’s easy: RAVELRY! I just love hunting around on Ravelry and finding all sorts of patterns in all kinds of yarns and gosh, it is just amazing all the things out there that people have done! And, of course, the F5ers are just THE BEST!
Lisa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:55 pm
The Yarn Harlot — it is refreshing to know that even someone as accomplished as she is can share some of the frustrations, insanity and joy knitting can bring us. She helps us bring a “stay at home hobby” into a full fledged, in your face group activity.
Mary said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:55 pm
My aunt taught me to knit when I was 9 years old. I think that she and my mother (who was an avid crocheter, but was very encouraging of my crafting) were my two biggest influences. I DO love the commeraderie available online (Yeah, Loopy Ewe!!) and on Ravelry, too, since I don’t know too many knitters in real life.
Kelly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:56 pm
Her Serene Highness, the daughter.
It’s fun to make stuff for someone who really appreciates it. But would I have tried to make mittens if she didn’t need them? Would I have made socks if it weren’t for little feet to try them on? Would I have bought that wild color if it didn’t appeal to her and only her? Doesn’t she look cute in her sweater?
And it makes me feel so great when she wears it and proudly tells people, “My Mommy made it for me.”
Barb said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:57 pm
I guess it’s my grandmother. She taught me to knit and I wish she was here to see all wonderful things I have been knitting.
Erica said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:57 pm
I think, for me, it’d have to be combination of influences – first – Wendy Johnson at wendyknits. She can always get me wanting to start something new. Second, the masses at Ravelry are also good for a nudge into starteritis. And, third, well the Loopy Ewe of course. That’s where the influence in thought turns into an influence in deed and I break down and get the perfect yarn for the pattern in my head. Now if I could only FINISH them, lol.
Maria said,
August 24, 2009 @ 8:59 pm
It’s a hard question, but I’d have to say Kaffe Fassett. I was so blown away by his creativity, his fearlessness, and I was just a tad envious of his life in the UK. It encouraged me to at least try to be fearless, too.
(Since then I’ve had the chance to move from the US to the UK, so I’m less envious of that part!)
I’ve done a Kaffe Fassett pattern, though I did find some knitting that was intended to be a sweater from some time ago that was a pattern from his first book. I’m going to finish it up and make it into a pillow instead, as it won’t be flattering as a garment for me. I still love it as much as I ever did, though.
leah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:00 pm
I’d say my local knitting group (Baton Rouge Red Sticks—also a group on rav). It took a long time before I ever found a group of knitters and now I have the most supportive group that oooohs and awwws over everything!
Melissa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:00 pm
I’ll have to go with either myself or Ravelry. I taught myself to knit and am always game for a new technique or project to teach myself. Since finding Ravelry my ideas have expanded to include knitting projects I wouldn’t have thought of on my own. Knitting stitch books are also a great source of inspiration for me. With new stitches learned come new projects!
Courtney said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:01 pm
My friend Lee is my biggest knitting influence. She is a phenomenal designer & knitter. We met at a class in Dallas at a yarn shop. She has a gift that I aspire too. She is an incredible talent. I wish she had her patterns in more venues because they are so fabulous. I am always inspired to knit fabulous things & she encourages me that I can do it. She is at “yarnoverlounge”. Maybe Loopy will have her patterns sometime. I love knitting & am so happy I have found the Loopy Ewe also.
Lilie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:01 pm
The biggest influence on your knitting is Georgia of Fiberphile since it was her beautiful yarn that got me back into knitting after 15+ year break!
Ruth Carapella said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:01 pm
My knitting friends. I have one friend who convinced me I could knit lace. Another convinced me I could knit stranded color. That same one convinced me I could knit cables and more complicated patterns. I count among my knitting friends, people like the Loopy Ewe, who show me wonderful knit projects with your lovely yarn!!!
Hannah B said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:01 pm
I’m not sure I could say one person who has had the biggest influence. My big influence has come from ravelry, joining in multiple sock KALs. There I learn about all the kinds of sock yarn I want to buy, the books and patterns I want to knit, etc. It seems like I am not the only one!
Karli said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:02 pm
First I have to say that I am a crocheter not a knitter. I have tried to learn knitting but I found it impossible, so I do what I am good at, crocheting. The biggest influence on my crocheting was my grandmother. She gave me a kit to make a white poodle when I was about 5 years old. I only worked on it when we were together. She made wonderful crocheted lace, and that is what I wanted to make. When I was in high school, I taught myself by copying her lace. Thank goodness the yarn doesn’t seem to care what we do with it, sticks or hooks are both OK.
ChanaArnold said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:02 pm
My mother-in law is my biggest influnce because she always encourages me to try new techniques,yarns (as if I need help to buy more yarn) new patterns and stitches and just being there for me! Thanks! MOM Chana
Carrie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:03 pm
I’m torn between knitting blogs I read and friends who knit. And I have to throw in Ravelry too. Sometimes you just see something you have to knit!
Linda said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:03 pm
I think the biggest influence on my knitting has been Wendy of Wendyknits. I started reading her blog and she always keeps me inspired with new ideas. Ravelry has also played a big part in my knitting mojo. Love the online community.
Rasa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:05 pm
My knitting has been influenced by many people. First off, thanks to my mom who taught me the basics many years ago. Next came my sister who started knitting and that was all the challenge I needed…I could do it as well. A friend of mine challenged me to try new things…namely socks. Once I started knitting socks, I no longer have fear of trying something new. I thank Cookie A for teaching me how to knit cables without a cable needle and how to read my knitting. It continues to be a learning experience and makes me really happy to knit and create:)
Andrea said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:05 pm
My knitting group has been the biggest influence in my knitting. They embrace all methods of knitting and are great cheerleaders of my latest projects.
Bobbie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee influenced my knitting. I found her blog after I started getting back into knitting a few years ago. Her blog led me other online resources. Somewhere during that time I found Kathleen Taylor’s blog, Ravelry, etc, etc.
crzjane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
My daughter Amanda..She is able to knit so much, and she’s a mom of 4! Where she finds the time, I don’t know. And she’s learning to spin too!
And you guys are a great influence too! With all the beautiful yarns you have. I just want them all!
Maryanne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:06 pm
Definitely, Elizabeth Zimmermann has been a huge influence on my knitting.
Linda said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:07 pm
I would say the greatest influence on my knitting has been myself, seeking out new knowledge and inspiration from the many resources that I now have at my fingertips, especially ravelry. What an amazingly inspirational tool! My knitting knowledge and skills have grown by leaps & bounds over the last couple of years since i opened a ravelry account.
Ellen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:08 pm
The biggest influence in my learning to knit was a need for Christmas gifts and no money. I was newly married in the early 60’s and needed gifts for my husband’s large extended family. No one knit that I knew nor did anyone in my family. I don’t remember that there was even a LYS anywhere in the area – just Woolworth’s – so I taught myself from a 10 cent-booklet from the 5&10. .
Much later I discovered Maggie Righetti’s book Knitting in Plain English and even later, Elizabeth Zimmerman’s books. I still re-read their books often because I enjoy their common-sense, no nonsense approach to knitting and life. Both books provide tools to help you to become a Thinking Knitter, not a Blind Follower.
Amber said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:09 pm
My great grandma Erma. Most of my knitting needles belonged to her. I was always so amazed that she was able to make such beautiful things and that she did it for us! She passed away long before I took up knitting myself but I think she would be very proud of me.
Lauren J said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:09 pm
I think that my knitting group has a great influence on my knitting. We are always challenging each other and it is an opportunity for us to not only work collaboratively on projects, but also share skills with each other.
I also pay attention to knitwear designers and what’s popular on Ravelry….but I’m always a sucker for my personal favorites (scarves).
Hope that you had a good anniversary month @ Loopy Central!
Alison L said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:09 pm
My sister who does not knit is a huge influence on me–she tells me what she wants and I figure out how to make it.
Marylu said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:10 pm
Let’s see…… My sister-in-law started the “spark” in me to knit, and Ravelry has continued the “spark” and turned it into an obsession LOL!! I find knitting so relaxing and enjoyable, and of course the new yarns offered at your shop and super quick shipping has enabled my obsession LOL
Anna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:11 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has been my memories of my mother knitting when I was small. I remember one day it became very cold & we had no money to buy me a hat that fit (I’d grown out of my old one) – she sat down & knit me a new hat that night and it was ready for me in the morning. I thought it was magic, and I still do
AJ said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:12 pm
My Mother. She taught me to knit and continually encourages me on my knitting.
Amy P said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:12 pm
The person who has had the biggest influence on my knitting is Melinda Brink, the woman who taught me when I was about 10 years old in Vermont. She lived down the road and was one hard working, self-sufficient woman. She would make mittens inside her house all winter long, and hats and scarves too, but it was the mittens I learned on, without a pattern. She is gone now but I will never forget her, especially when I knit.
catspaw said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:13 pm
The biggest knitting influence in my life was my mother and my grandmother. They knit beautifully and taught me what they knew. Now I’m at the stage in my life where I am knitting for my mom, instead of the other way around.
Next would be Barbara Walker. Her ToKP books inspired me to try things on my own and I’ve never looked back.
Barbara-Kay said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:13 pm
I learned to knit socks from Nancy Bush’s books. It was just Nancy and me, knitting in isolation. After that, I felt I could learn ANYTHING.
It was only after I tried (and succeeded) Kitchenering toes that others told me it was supposed to be too hard to do. Who knew?
Megan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:14 pm
My biggest inspiration has definitely been myself (with plenty of support from Ravelry and yourselves in recent years). I jumped right in with two feet from the very beginning, and it has been one of the very few areas of my life where I experience no fear whatsoever. My second project was an elaborately cabled scarf that I designed myself.
Wendi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:15 pm
My friend Della has been a huge influence on me and my knitting. She is not afraid to try anything and that has inspired me to try new things. I will always admire her…
Pamela said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:16 pm
Since I have cast-ontitis, everyone does! Anything I see, I want to knit! And I don’t knit anywhere near as fast as I buy and plan!
Charlene said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:16 pm
My daughter, Kim, is the biggest current influence on my knitting. She keeps up on the knitting community and passes information along to me. We also share a passion for knitting and often share ideas, patterns, yarn, and needles.
Elise said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:18 pm
My Mother – she is a fabulous knitter – a great help even over the phone (we live in different states) and my sister and I love to go “shopping” in her closet. She is also a loopie groupie of course and when we meet up at stitches, I’m surprised there is any yarn left – lol!
Gail said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:18 pm
I think Ravelry has influence me the most since I learned to knit a couple of years ago. You can find so much information by just spending time browsing the site. That’s how I found the Loopy Ewe!!!
Colleen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
Very difficult to answer, there have been and are SO many… I think I’d have to pick Casey from Ravelry. His fabulous programming has enabled me to access, catalog, compare, question, modify, find, query, queue, plan, show off, and enjoy more about knitting than the contributions of any other one person. Thanks Casey!!!!!!
april zvan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
The person who has influenced me the most is my friend Betty. She used to turn her nose up at knitting. She liked to crochet. Then she learned to tat and make bobbin lace. THEN, she discovered how to make lace with knitting. From there came the first sock. She dragged (OK, I came willingly) to a book signing and talk by the Yarn Harlot. I was hooked. In two years I’ve made 8-9 pairs of socks. One pair was big enough for my boyfriend’s size 12EEE feet!
Love all things LOOPY.
Christina said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
After having taught me to sew, my mother sent me down the street to learn to knit from a neighbor lady. Although I didn’t understand at that time why my mother couldn’t teach to knit (she was quite proficient) at the age of 9 years old I am quite empathetic now (many years later). So my dear mom and the lady down the street were my earliest sources of inspiration. Over the years those that have encouraged me to continue with my passion (e.g. high school english teacher, fellow colleague during my post-doc) have been critical to my success. I owe a lot to my best knitting friend ever, Tammy. We feed each others insanity and creativity. Answering this question has made me even more appreciative of some very special people in my life. Thank you for the opportunity to reflect!!!
MaryJo said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
I’d have to say the biggest source of inspiration for me is working at my LYS. I see the new yarn when it comes in and all the new pattern books. Then I see what customers are working on. It makes for a very, very large queue.
Michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
I’m not sure who my biggest influence is with my knitting. My mom crochets and I learned that from her but my knitting was self taught.
Janet said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
My friend Debbie. She taught me how. And for that I will always be thankful:)
Kay said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
I’d have to say my friends Karen and Marjie have had GREAT influences over my knitting. We knit together often and we’re always showing patterns and/or projects to each other. Oh wait…maybe that is called enabling each other? lol However you want to put it! We love it!
Christine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:25 pm
The biggest influence for me is the Sock Knitters Annoynomous group on Ravelry. My sock yarn stash is due to that group!
Kathleen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:25 pm
My babysitter, Hildred Hoyt, taught me how to knit, crochet and cross stitch. There were 10 of us that she babysat. I guess getting one to sit down and have good behavior made her very happy. She babysat me from age 6 to age 14. My mother also knit but lacked the patience to teach me. Thank you Mrs Hoyt.
Majka said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:25 pm
Everyday life is my biggest knitting inspiration. I look around see patterns/colors/objects that I like and it inspires my knitting choices. I do a lot of gift knitting so I’m always scoping out things and thinking oh if i do this to that i can give it as a gift to so and so and it would be a perfect match for them.
Gayle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:26 pm
Elizabeth Zimmerman, Ravelry, and The Loopy Ewe. I live in an area where there are no LYS’s within 100 miles–therefore, all of my inspirations comes from books and the internet.
Miranda said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:26 pm
As a self-taught knitter, I have to my biggest influence to start knitting was seeing one of my friends doing it. What propelled me to increase my repetoire from scarves had to be Knitty and later Ravelry. I’d see a pattern that I just had to knit and would learn how to do it.
Wendy in Cambridge said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:27 pm
My biggest influences were my Mom, who loved everything I made for her and encouraged me always, and two of my closest friends, knitters extraordinaire Judy and Alice. And my grandmother, who taught me to knit one rainy afternoon in 1950, when I was 7.
Laurie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:27 pm
I think I have two people have had a great influence on my knitting…First of all, one of my grandmothers…She died when I was fairly young, but I have been told more than once that I had to have inherited her knitting skills. Also, my friend and LYS owner has had a huge impact on my knitting. After unsuccessfully taking a sock knitting class at another establishment, Nancy spent about 15 minutes with me, and I was off and running with knitting socks. I haven’t looked back since! She has also given me great confidence in my knitting skills and always gets me straightened out if I just can’t figure out a problem.
Laura said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:28 pm
The Internet has definitely influenced my knitting, both for yarn options and pattern options. I didn’t have a LYS until recently so I relied on the Internet for a lot. In fact, I made my first online yarn purchase at TLE!
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:29 pm
I taught myself to knit (and to knit socks, and to do colorwork and cables) but it’s Ravelry that keeps me feeling inspired and connected…esp Sock Knitter’s Anonymous which gets me out of my comfort zone and encourages me to try mystery socks and new techniques monthly.
Melissa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:30 pm
I am a voracious magazine and book reader. Just looking through one of my collection can get the creative juices flowing. I also watch a couple of TV shows, but they are pretty basic and don’t hold as much interest for me these days. I’m really visual, so anything I can look at can be an inspiration. And, of course, I love looking at and touching beautiful yarn!
Valorie Brown said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:31 pm
Well, I taught myself to knit from a booklet, then honed my skills from further books — really I think that most everything I’ve learned about knitting has been from books — but then again, that’s the way I learn best. So, Barbara Walker, Elizabeth Zimmerman and Melanie Falick are my biggest influences!
Kathy Sue said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:32 pm
Well, first, my mom’s friend Liz who tried to teach me when I was 12. Her lessons finally clicked 20 years later when I tried again, with the help of Evie Cohen’s book, to switch from crochet to make sweaters for my daughter. Since then, since I got into socks and lace, Mim Felton and Evelyn Clark and Cookie A are my favorite designers, and the myriad of talented dyers are a constant inspiration with the amazing yarns and colors they use. I make a lot of baby blankies and sweaters. For inspiration I read The Harlot and WedyKnits among about 100 other bloggers. Last, but definitely not least is my best friend Ravelry–you can learn everything you need there. Once, I fell in love with a lace shawl but the pattern was written is Finnish, and one of the symbols was unfamiliar to me. I found a Rav Group of Finnish knitters and asked. The next day, I got a message explaining the stitch. It was the coolest thing to happen to me in a long time! And my Aunt loved the shawl!
Sylvia Frampton said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:33 pm
I have to say that i challenge myself by reading blogs about knitting and from there find new projects. I am a process knitter and love to try new stuff. You have inspired me a lot this summer with the girasole shawl and also the jaywalker socks I spent all 4 days of my trip to Maine looking for the perfect yarn to make them and I am still looking.
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:33 pm
biggest influence is the gorgeous pages of knitting magazines, which inspire me to try their designs or tweak them to form my own.
Marsha said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:34 pm
Charles Higginbothan, who owned The Woolgatherer in Washington, DC was the biggest influence on my knitting life. I knew how to knit before I began working there, but Charles was the first person I had ever met who was a truly inspired knitter. He taught me that you can knit without a pattern, that the math you need to do this is easy and doable, but mostly he taught me that knitting is both creative and fun. Charles passed away this past year. I am grateful that he shared his knowledge. I miss him.
Leslie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:34 pm
Ravelry has influenced my knitting more than anything else. I spend many enjoyable hours looking at the beautiful finished projects, reading blog entries, investigating patterns and yarns. If only I had time to knit all the projects I’ve been inspired to try!
Sharon said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:34 pm
I would have to say Wendyknits first and then the internet in general. I really wanted to make a sock, but I was figuring it out myself from patterns and top down just didn’t click for me. One of Wendy’s toe up patterns was what I used to make my first sock. I can’t even remember now how I found Wendyknits and Yarn Hartlot, but I’m pretty sure that every other knitting blog, pattern site, etc. that I found started from those two. There are so many inspiring, helpful and friendly internet sites. And it’s so funny to meet someone at a new LYS or even a non-knitting gathering and find out someone is a knitter and they “know” all the same people I do from the internet.
Nancy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:34 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting has got to be my daughter. She is a self-taught knitter and when I turned 54 she talked me into picking up a pair of knitting needles and I never looked back. She’s always been such a patient teacher. I’m looking forward to learning much more about knitting from her.
Yvonne Downing said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:35 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting was a group of friends. One of us had knitted years ago and wanted some yarn, so she and three others of us decided to go along for lunch–definitely not to buy yarn. Before I knew it, I had started a project before leaving the store. The young lady was so sweet. I got a few stitches and went home with a plan. I’ve been knitting ever since!
Michelle H. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:37 pm
The biggest knitting influence was my Grandma. She taught me to knit when I was little and then helped me pick up again about 8 years, even with 900 miles between us she could always help me figure out a problem. Now my biggest influences are my husband and knitting group..
Jenny T said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:37 pm
Actually, I was influenced by looking at fashion magazines that featured very expensive sweaters that I couldn’t afford when I was younger. Now the yarn that I buy is probably more expensive than the fashion sweaters.
mary fontaine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:38 pm
My mother taught me how to knit when I was 5 years old. So I have to say that she has been the biggest influence on my knitting.
Virginia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:38 pm
I’d pick my friend Laura. I was a sporadic and timid knitter when we went to a Sunday School retreat together. She saw me knitting and grabbed hers and we started knitting together. She’s a knitting fiend and has encouraged me to be a more enthusiastic knitter. We get together weekly to have breakfast and knit.
Carol said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:38 pm
When I was a kid in the 1960s, my grandmother patiently taught me to knit many times before it really sank in. So she started things off for me.
I knitted on my own all through the lean years, and, largely through frustration at not finding patterns that fulfilled what I wanted, followed my nose into designing. finally, Ravelry provided connections to other knitters, which has been wonderful. Now, knitting can be a social sport as well as very satisfying work
Jean said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:40 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting is my fearless knitting friend Deborah. We both work for the same company on the same floor on the same project, and we formally met while working on a project, but we bonded over crafting and knitting. She has started a small knitting/crocheting group at my work, has conducted mini-classes on toe-up sock knitting for a few of us, and has helped me overcome my fear of knitting lace too! Mostly, she reminds me that it’s supposed to be fun and that perfection (assuming it’s possible) is not the goal, its what happens as you try new things and learn. She’s awesome!
Rachael said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:40 pm
I think my biggest influence is Wendy of Wendy Knits! I started reading her blog in 2003 just as I was learning to knit. Her generic toe-up sock pattern was the second sock pattern I knit. I realized that I could plug any stitch pattern I wanted into it and didn’t knit any pattern for my socks for a long time afterward. I have been inspired to push myself to try new things by reading her blog.
Anyone I know “in real life” that knits was taught by ME. I love knitting with them, but Wendy inspires me the most.
Leslie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:40 pm
I think my first influence in knitting was my English grandmother, who knitted little baby sweaters for my younger brothers. My family also had an Austrian friend who knitted at lightning speed. I was completely dazzled by her flying fingers. Eventually, in my thirties, I taught myself to knit when a friend started doing it and piqued my interest. I then switched to needlepoint for a few years and came back to knitting about six years ago, when the internet helped create online knitting communities. I started reading Wendy Knits and discovered the community on Ravelry.
TMTTYRR said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:42 pm
Inspiration? Could be anything. Sometimes I’ll see something someone else is making, sometimes I have something in mind and can’t find a pattern, sometimes it’s a beautiful yarn. I might see a beautiful pattern and be awed by its intricacy, or I might see a pattern in the leaves or the clouds while walking the dog and just have to duplicate it.
Could be anything.
Maria E said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:42 pm
I think my biggest influence now is ravelry, the knitting help website, and books and magazines! Since i moved to AZ, I do not know really any knitters…….so I just explore the resources I can find!
Joan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:43 pm
Is it a cop-out to say Ravelry in general? The whole site. I think that before Ravelry, I lurked on a ridiculous number of knit blogs, but I didn’t really knit what other people were knitting. I am about the only person in the universe who hasn’t knit a Clapotis yet…. although, having seen the finished ones and comments on Ravelry, I think I’m going to make one this fall.
Ravelry just makes it too easy for me to think “I want to make a sweater” and click, click, click… I’ve not only got a repository of photos of finished sweaters in a certain pattern, but usually I can also buy the very pattern right there. It’s just too amazing to me, this brainchild of Jess and Casey!!!! I think they rank right up there with EZ and Barbara Walker in what they have been able to contribute to knitting in general.
Trish C said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:43 pm
My biggest influence on my knitting has to be the fabulous photographs coming out of the knitting community. I love pictures of finished projects, and FO’s are everywhere on the web – from blogs to Ravelry and other craft social circles to online patterns. I love to know how a certain colorway knits up in different patterns and often find that I purchase yarn first and find the pattern after looking through all the photos I can find. If some combination pops out as extraordinary, I might copy (highest form of flattery, right) anothers creative genius of marrying yarn and pattern.
Amy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
My first influences would be my mom, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. I loved watching them knit and crochet and I was lucky enough to have my great-grandma teach me to crochet. Now, it’s friends who inspire me – especially my friend Dawn!
Kate said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
My biggest influences on my knitting are the family and friends that I knit for and with! I’m always trying out new things with them and they let me know if it works or not. Their input gives me lots of time to knit and relieve stress.
Natalie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:46 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting? I think my concept of what my knitting could be expanded first when I started going to a sit & knit at my LYS, but the bigger expansion happened when I got started reading knitting blogs. My lace “problem” was enhanced by Franklin Habit, Ted (Knitterguy), Eunny, and many others.
Grace said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:47 pm
While my mother taught me to knit, hands down the biggest influence on my knitting was the ladies in my knitting group… Susan, Angela, Jeri, Joy, Julia, and Rebecca. They taught me how to correct my errors, which was something that my mother never knew how to do. (My mother’s solution to an error was to frog the entire piece and and then start all over. Needless to say, she never completed much!) They also taught me that it’s perfectly OK to want to knit something different than everyone else and showed me a world of possibilities. I wouldn’t be the same knitter without them!
Lynn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:48 pm
My biggest influence has been the amazing designers. They keep turning out such beautiful patterns and my queue keeps getting longer and longer. I need to learn to knit faster.
LaceLady said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:48 pm
My grandmother knit Cowichan sweaters, my mother knit Norwegian sweaters, my dad and husband knit socks. I crocheted Irish Lace, and every imaginable type of crochet . I didn’t learn to knit until 2007,when one of my gram-sons bought “Arctic Lace”, a ball of quivuit yarn, and the book “Barbara Walker, Volume I” for a Christmas present. His note was precious – he wanted to have a Norwegian sweater and a quivuit scarf like the ones my mother had made for HIS mother. Modern knitting influences – the first and foremost is Clara Parkes (sp?). Cat Bordhi’s knitting retreat in Friday Harbour was eye-opening, and one of the best weeks I’ve ever had, with fabulous, smart, funny, gorgeous women – all with one thing in common – passion for fibers and knitting. A weekend with Sivia Harding ~ well now, that woman can do the impossible – teach, knit, soothe, invigorate, tempt, encourage, stimulate, create~ all with the most amazingly serene composure ~ which shows in each of her patterns! The LYS ladies – the dyers – the independent on-line stores, blogs – all have so much influence, sometimes indirectly. Then, there are the designers et all on Ravelry – oh heck….help!
Linda said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:49 pm
My sisters. One taught me to knit, the other encourages and inspires me.
megan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:50 pm
the internet! i really get inspired by seeing others’ work – brooklyntweed i remember being one of the first places that spurred me to obsessiveness.
MamaKin said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:50 pm
My biggest influence in knitting and in life was my aunt. She was actually my psychological mother, as my own mom had many emotional problems when it came to personal relationships with those close to her. My aunt stepped in and was there to help her when she could and always was there to help me. She seemed to be able to do anything. She made me dresses, and then matching ones for my dolls. She embroidered and taught me how to edge a fabric to make a blanket for my doll, while she made one for me. She taught me to crochet and knit and I told my children about what she taught me when I taught them to crochet and knit.
She was a loving, nurturing woman with endless patience and I miss her, but I think of her every time I make something. Lately I’ve been learning how to spin & wishing she was here to learn something with me so we could share our love for creativity as adults. Her influence not only made me a lover of making things, but a good, patient, loving mom.
Carla said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:51 pm
I think the biggest influences have been Ravelry and the owners of my LYS in town.
Traci said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:54 pm
I guess I would have to say YarnHarlot. I think that overall she has changed the way I think of knitting as being a community activity, and knitters as a big community. She kind of fanned the spark that’s always been there and made me feel a part of something bigger than myself and proud to be a knitter. Of course Ravelry has also been a huge influence in how I approach my projects- there are do many great tools to be found there!
Patricia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:56 pm
The person who has had the most influence on my knitting is my son, now 36 years old. When he first got his drivers lisence I could not sleep until he was safely home. I couldn’t read a book because I would read the same page over and over and it was not productive, so I started knitting after a 16 year lapse and I’ve not stopped since, so thank you Aaron! lol
amy lane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:56 pm
The Yarn Harlot, hands down. I was an AVID crocheter, but she waxed lyrical about sock knitting, and here I am… gazing at your inventory every month with puppy dog eyes.
Kathryn in Minnesota said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:57 pm
Who has had the biggest influence on my knitting? Definitely the people who invented the internet and the worldwide web. I live in a small town, one that briefly had a LYS but sadly has one no longer. Without the web, I would be lost. Without the web, I wouldn’t have found the Yarn Harlot, wouldn’t have found Knitty, wouldn’t have found Ravelry. Wouldn’t have found the yarn shops in my state that aren’t local but are worthy sites for knitting pilgrimages. Without the web, I wouldn’t have found the Loopy Ewe! In as much as I wish I could say some wonderful female or male ancestor influenced my knitting (and I do love the fact that I ended up with the knitting needles of my grandmother who died when I was wee), the truth is that the biggest influence has been an anonymous bunch of technogeeks I’ve never met but to whom I will be forever indebted!
Lorraine C. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:59 pm
I think my biggest influence has been the Dallas Handknitters Guild. Between the workshops, the programs and the show and tell, I have been encouraged to do more knitting and to try new things. They are the nicest bunch of people and welcome everyone, regardless of skill. I am so glad I found them and joined up.
BELINDA said,
August 24, 2009 @ 9:59 pm
My Mom has been my biggest influence. Even wih tremors, she still tried to dosome knitting.
jaci said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:00 pm
I’d have to say that my LYS owner got me back into knitting again six years ago. My daughter’s Godmother taught me to knit 15 years ago so I have to give her credit, too. Finding TLE really peaked my interest in Indie dyers.
Lee said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:01 pm
I think my best friend has had the biggist influence on my knitting. She likes to surf the net, and read blogs, of course, that inspires her. She does the research, and I enjoy the benefits. I usually get inspired when she starts something, hence, my new project
We are very competiive in seeing who can finish the project first. I always win…not.
Michele said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:01 pm
My grandmother-she always bad-mouthed it as she was a great crocheter. I really adore Anne Hanson’s patterns. She inspires me to keep on knitting.
Kerry said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:02 pm
My ex-husband’s grandmother was a huge influence on my knitting. She was amazing. She knit everything going and never from a pattern. She was a sweet, kind, caring Italian and I loved her dearly. Too bad my ex didn’t get the same traits. he he Currently I’d have to say that Ravelry is a huge influence. I spend way too much time browsing all the patterns and projects and want to knit one of them all. LOL The yarns at Loopy Ewe are a huge part too, of course. I can’t help but order new yarns just to see how they knit up.
Adele said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:03 pm
My initial interest came as a young child, watching my Great Aunt from Italy knit socks. She did it so effortlessly and perfectly with such speed. Later in life when I learned to knit I was fortunate to be able to participate in some valuable classes with Alice Starmore and I would have to say she had the greatest influence on my skills.
Megan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:03 pm
Ravelry has definitely had the biggest influence on my knitting. Every time I sign on I find something or someone else that inspires me. Knitting blogs also have a big influence on my knitting. I love to see what other people are making and what they’ve done to tweak the patterns.
Genia said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:04 pm
I’m self-taught so have had great help and encouragement from Wendy’s website and Ravelry.
Beverly W said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:06 pm
Elizabeth Zimmermann – absolutely.
Corinne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:07 pm
My influence is my bead knitting teacher, Kathy. She encourages me when I lose confidence, and she always tells me that I can knit anything I choose!
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:08 pm
Some knitting gene switched on at my 50th birthday and I’ve been insatiably curious ever since. I’m a big fan of home education, and now that my son is in college, I’m the only student left at home. Blogs, podcasts and three great libraries, not to mention many fantastic online stores (like the Loopy Ewe) continue to fuel the flames.
Cindy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:08 pm
Two aunts got me started, but the ladies at my LYS gently nudged me to try more difficult things. They told me if I wasn’t ripping as much as knitting, then I wasn’t challenging myself enough … then they recommended I have at least 3 projects on the needles at all times. Well, I am ripping and knitting , and currently have 2 projects on the needles. While I haven’t made it to a sweater yet, I am pushing myself to get there … soon.
Beth said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:09 pm
I’m mostly influenced by what I see others doing on Ravelry and in my local knitting group. Sometimes seeing a variation an item makes it more appealing.
Annette in Toledo, Ohio said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:09 pm
I taught myself how to knit using Jacqueline Fee’s “The Sweater Workshop” about twenty years ago. So, from the start, I was knitting on circular needles, and whenever possible, in the round. To this day, I almost always adapt patterns to be knit in the round, and if possible, with no seams. So it’s Jacqueline Fee for me.
mklee said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:09 pm
we have a knitting group that meets at work every wednesday. and although i didn’t learn to knit through going to the meetings, they definitely inspire me to knit on a regular basis!
kimberly said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:10 pm
I learned from a very generous lady at a craft fair when I was in theatre, and to this day, the scarf she gave me is still my absolute favorite.
Deinera said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:10 pm
There are a few influences on my knitting. I am a crocheter at heart, but the things I like to do in crochet require a lot of work and a lot of “put it together”. An online friend of mine, Brianna (of http://www.thecrochetside.com) was dying some sock yarn and posting them on etsy. There was one particular colorway, Teacher’s Pet, that I absolutely fell in love with. Considering the lightness in weight of the sock yarn compared to the worsted I was used to in doing all of the crochet projects, I knew I would have to learn how to knit. The desire to knit socks had been there awhile, but Brianna’s lovely sock yarn was what set me off.
I kept that yarn in my not-stash for over a year before I finally sat down and created socks with it. I wanted to make sure I understood the process before attempting (and reattempting) with the beautiful yarn. I tried cuff down socks and failed, miserably, at keeping the top edging from becoming too ‘fluffy’. And then I found WendyKnits. And her absolutely amazing toe-up socks with a difference pattern. And I’ve been hooked ever since.
My love affair with sock yarn has carried over to the Girasole and scarves knit with it. It doesn’t help that you and Woolgirl.com feed the insatiable sock yarn appetite. ha!
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:10 pm
PS More info, please, about that sock at the top of this blog entry!
Sylvia Jordan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:11 pm
Elizabeth Zimmerman, Nancy Bush and Alice Starmore had the most influence on the beginning of my knitting obsession…then came the Rowan designers and now blogs seems to offer the most creative ideas.
annie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:13 pm
I enjoy Ravelry, Wendy, and the Harlot, getting great information and inspiration from them. Like many others, I’m self taught, so being able to call on “friends” such as these and the Loopy Ewe, of course, is great!
Robyn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:13 pm
my mom had the biggest influence on my knitting. she is the one who taught me and even though she is now needlepointing she still supports and helps me with knitting questions.
Jessica said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:16 pm
A friend on mine has been the biggest influence on my knitting. She is the one who got me into knitting and her and I spend a lot of time together talking knitting, sharing patterns and helping each other. We have fun together with it. My grandmother was a knitter but I was not interested as a child. Now I wish I would have been. How neat it would have been to learn from her.
Deb said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:16 pm
My mother was my original knitting influence, and if it weren’t for her I wouldn’t be a knitter today (at age 47). But I feel that I am now my own biggest influence, as I follow blogs, podcasts, magazines and knitting “mentors” wherever I go.
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:17 pm
Who has influenced my knitting most? Tough question but if I was honest with myself probably the owner of the yarn store that I frequent the most. She has a style that she likes but she still tries to get things that she thinks her customers would like also. I am influenced by the yarns she has and the sample knits plus the patterns I see. I do see things on Ravelry and in magazines and from other knitters but the most influence is Lea-Ann and her fantastic store.
Beth D. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:18 pm
The Internet has been the biggest influence on my knitting. When I need a demonstration of a new stitch I can go to UTube. When I’m looking for a new pattern I either go to Ravelry, Google, or a yarn Website. I’ve made friends through the ‘net I would not have otherwise.
yarnsmything said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:18 pm
I have knitted for over 50 years and still going strong. With help from relatives I made many things for myself, children and family. But what has inspired me the most in the last three years is learning Wendy Johnson’s toe up socks. I just absolutely love making them. And the beautiful fibers available to anyone on the net. No LYS in my town. So the internet and the selection of patterns and yarns is super influentional to me.
Julie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:19 pm
The biggest influence on what I knit is my friends, both those in my local knitting group and my online Ravelry friends. I am always getting ideas of patterns I want to try from them. One of my favorite things to look at on Ravelry is the “Friend Activity” tab. I love seeing what everyone is working on, and I have added lots of patterns to my favorites and my queue from things I see there.
Arlin said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:20 pm
I’m a self-taught knitter for the most part, and I take my inspiration from patterns, blogs, books, Ravelry groups… I guess if I have to say who, I’d say Sharon (indie dyer: Three Irish Girls) and the girls over at the 3IG group on Ravelry. They’re all very nice, fun, lovable people and Sharon’s colorways and niceness just inspired me. And they motivate me to branch into new stuff, try techniques I didn’t know, etc.
Joanne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:21 pm
my big sister! (and the yarn harlot).
Michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:22 pm
I would have to say that Anne Hanson has had the biggest influence on my knitting. Less than a year ago I swore that I would NEVER try to knit lace, but then I came across her patterns. They inspired me to try knitting lace…and the wonderful way in which she writes her patterns helped me every step of the way. I have never met Anne, but I follow her blog faithfully and hopefully one day we will cross paths!
Eunice said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:22 pm
I think the ladies at my knitting shop influence me when I see what they are knitting. That gets me to try new things. The items my daughter knits also tempt me.
Jenae said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:22 pm
my little sister (and the yarn harlot)!
Nancy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:22 pm
My mother taught me how to knit when I was a little girl. So she was always my biggest influence. I knit for many years and then stopped when I got a kitten in 1983. After my cat passed on, knitting had come back in style, and I decided to take it up again. So I would say that I am now my own biggest influence.
Lynn M said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:24 pm
My influences have been Mom for teaching me. Kim Hargreaves and Rowan for getting me into good yarns and sweater knitting. But the absolutely biggest influence (and most expensive
) has been Ravelry. Ravelry brought me to so many new sources for great yarns, including TLE, as well as designers and patterns. And the friends I’ve made on Ravelry who are great enablers and cheerleaders.
Karen Wong said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:24 pm
My greatest knitting influence was Amy Salazar, who taught me how to knit socks. Prior to that, I taught quilting, sewing and sold sewing machines. Learning to knit socks really changed all that–I have become dedicated to de veloping my skills as a knitter. I love knitting socks. They are such tiny architectural gems….
Teresa Mc said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:25 pm
Oh, that one’s easy! I worked at a great little knit shop in college. My mom taught me the basic when I was 6 or 7, but when I work at the shop, they taught me the finer points. I soaked it up! I still love to teach knitting….spreading the craft.
Cin said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:27 pm
I think the knitting podcasters and bloggers that I follow have to be my biggest influence. I’m pretty shy by nature, and people like the Harlot, Lime and Violet, Eunny Jang, Wendy, Brooklyn Tweed, and Dr Gemma connect me to the knitting world in a way that I have a hard time doing without them. They keep my energy and excitement up and give voice to the enthusiasm that I feel for our craft. And through them I find out about new things, or about ways of making myself better.
Jess said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:27 pm
I would say my cousin’s grandmother, Mary. She has encouraged me and shares my passion. She’s the person in my life who can oooh and aaah at beautiful patterns or yarn and understand why they are important to me. It’s nearly impossible to choose though. The other people I’d say really influenced are Jess and Casey with founding Ravelry; that site has shown me more patterns and yarns to covet than I’ll be able to use in a lifetime.
Gemma said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:27 pm
Hi Sherri, my mum is my biggest motivator, followed closely by my mother in law (who is so not the usual MIL Stereotype) who is a superb knitter, tenatious and adventurous. But definitely my mum, who made me learn how to knit socks so I could show her how to turn a heel!
gemma
Veronica said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:28 pm
I think my friend Cara was my biggest influence initially, as she was the one who encouraged me to learn how to knit. Now I am a far more avid knitter than her and I keep myself motivated and am always growing my abilities.
Sharon said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:29 pm
Oh, so many influences. But in the beginning there was Elizabeth Zimmerman, who told me to think about what I was doing, and just get on with it! From EZ I learned to ask questions and ask why and to ask why not. And from there – the community of knitters appeared around me- just waiting for me to see them!
Charmaine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:31 pm
My friend Cathie started me knitting again..she visited me at work & thought
we should do the Great American Afghan..of course we had no idea what
we were doing..we were in way over our heads. That was about 4 yrs ago.
She has scurried ahead of me with lots of sweaters etc..I’ll catch up one
of these days.!!! I also love the Yarn Harlot which we were able to see in
Petaluma & I love Wendy Knits!!!
Andrea said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
My knitting teacher, Marie, has been my biggest influence. She has taught me to be daring with my knitting and make whatever I want to make. If I have trouble she’s there to help so that I don’t have trouble the next time. Additionally, I must say different yarn companies have made quite an impact. Getting that 1-2 gorgeous skeins of schaeffer, rowan, or dream in color (to name a few) makes me search places I never thought of before to find the perfect pattern for that absolutely perfect yarn.
Tori said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
My friend Angela. She’s a great knitter and a good motivator.
AnnH said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
Definitely my mother – she was a competent but not especially adventurous knitter, but a great and enthusiastic teacher. And she always encourage me to experiment and learn. That’s the key, I think.
Lu said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:33 pm
People who influenced me the most were the women in my LYS. My mom and I took a knitting class together and I loved it and she didn’t. So I scouted out the LYS and found a great group of people who inspired me to try all sorts of new things and yarns and all kinds of doodads that came in. The shop is gone now, but my love for knitting hasn’t waned in the least and I’ve found a new place to go to hang out and knit and talk and commisurate over the tough pattern that I just HAD to try!! LOL!! Luann
Joan Seely said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:34 pm
I’d have to say the the biggest influence on my knitting was ME. No one in my family knitted (although my mother and grandmother taught me to crochet.) I’m pretty much self-taught from books by many wonderful designers.
Ruthie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:34 pm
I think the Yarn Harlot and Anne Hanson have the most influence on my knitting…and my desire to knit. Both women are completely different and yet they are the same: plain, ordinary women, wives, daughters, sisters (I think), mother (in the case of the Yarn Harlot), and knitters extraordinaire. I respect them both and their knitting abilities. I appreciate their willingness to admit when they make a mistake and have to frog or tink. I commiserate with their UFOs that never seem to get completed. In short, they are just like me! And as such, they inspire me to keep going, to try new things, and to appreciate the gift of fiber. Neither one has a clue to who I am but that doesn’t matter. We celebrate a kinship through our needles. What more would a knitter need??
Kathy Davis said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:34 pm
There is no question that my friend, Beth Clement, influences my knitting the most. If she says she is going to knit it, I have to also. Kathy
Samantha said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:35 pm
Since I pretty much only have time to knit things I’m designing I’d have to say me. A lot of my design choices are influenced by my software testing background and my love for finding something that I can try to improve.
Deborah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:39 pm
No question – the Ravelry website. I am a fairly new knitter and I have learned so much from reading what other knitters have written on Ravelry. If you ask a question at least 20 people will reply. It’s the most amazing place. It is my first source for anything knitting. Logging on to Ravelry is the first thing I do each morning and the last thing I do at night.
Patty said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:40 pm
My mom always had a knitting project going. She knit us many pairs of wonderfully colorful and much used mittens. Also many marvelous matching hats. Whenever she had a spare moment she picked up her knitting. That stayed with me and I tend to do the same thing now. I connect knitting with a really the feeling of family and comfort. She gave away many mittens to kids who needed them, I like to do that too.
lisa said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:42 pm
My friend have been an influence on what I’m knitting, I’m constantly queing new projects after seeing what they’ve knit up or have queued themselves.
Kim said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:43 pm
My mother has been one of the biggest knitting influences in my life. She taught me to knit, fixed goof-ups, and has helped me get out of some of the biggest yarn tangles ever. Since we both have the hobby in common we frequently use it as an excuse to go on trips together to Stitches, to yarn shops, and hopefully TLE Spring Fling next year.
She is one of my best friends and it has been wonderful to share this common interest.
moirae said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:43 pm
Cookie A and the Yarn Harlot inspired me to knit socks.
Kathy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:49 pm
Alice Starmore was the one who inspired me to work on new techniques, to discover texture and colorwork, to take on big complicated projects and see them through. She was the first (but certainly not only!) designer to show me you can have great respect for traditional forms and patterns and yet produce your own modern and original creation.
Carol Dernberger said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:52 pm
My inspiration for knitting comes mostly from Ravelry. I’ve lately joined several knit alongs with Goddess Knits–and I do like Renee Leverington’s patterns of shawls. As I look back in my life, it was my Grandmother who taught me to knit and I will always be grateful that she did. Today, knitting is what provides me with the calm influence is an otherwise hectic world.
Alicia A. said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:53 pm
R-A-V-E-L-R-Y!! I spend more time looking at other peoples’ projects then knitting myself. I mean, I find a great skein of yarn that someone on Ravelry is talking about, then find dozens of projects done by knitters all over the world using that yarn… it’s really amazing.
Dimpi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:53 pm
I’ve been sitting here trying to decide who has been the biggest influence to me, and you know, I have no idea. I taught myself, don’t have any friends IRL who knit and none of my family knits either. But I’m inspired everyday by the fabulous designers who come up with the most gorgeous patterns and of course, the many talented knitters that I see online.
Kaitlyn said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
Interestingly, even though I’ve never discussed knitting with any of them, I’d have to say my dozen great aunts. I really get something important out of being from a big family of (awesome) knitters. And Nicole and Jenny from Stash and Burn have inspired me to be more adventurous which, while it hasn’t always turned out well, has been way more fun.
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
I do my own thing so much of the time with knitting I guess I don’t always have an influence. Or at least I didn’t before Ravelry- now all the F5 girls convince me to try things I never would have before. They are the most amazing group of women and knitters!
Mary Jane said,
August 24, 2009 @ 10:56 pm
Franklin Habit, the Panopticon. When I see his lace knitting and the lovely things he makes for his remarkable niece I get so inspired.
Dee said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:00 pm
My sister has been the greatest knitting influence for me. She taught herself to knit when she started to go to chemotherapy for newly diagnosed cancer. Many friends were recepients of scarves and blankets that she made during those sessions. She loved to knit and thankfully I started to knit as well.
Thanks for asking such interesting questions. It’s been fun to read what everyone has to say!
Lael said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:02 pm
I really don’t know if I could pinpoint any one influence as being the greatest. Maybe Spin-Off magazine and related spinning books/internet sites/blogs. I was spinning for several years before I started knitting, but seeing the beautiful things that others made with their handspun inspired me to learn to knit (again!) The Mystery Stole-Pink Lemon got me interested in lace, the Yarn Harlot seems to be so human (well, of course she is), she seems to make big goofs just like the rest of us, so, you know, no pressure, no knitting police! All the hand dyed yarns are very inspirational. My sheep influence some of my knitting-I guess my Shetland flock would have been the original influence, since they were here first! Many forces at work here, influencing and inspiring me!
Holly Anne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:04 pm
Melanie Falik’s book ‘Kids Knitting’ was the instruction that started it all. Kristen Nichols did the daigrams. I owe it all to these two amazing women. Thank you!
Bev said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:09 pm
I love knitting lace! Always have. And as a self taught knitter was limited in ability and finding patterns and yarn to match that I could afford. Then I purchased an old copy of Martha Waterson Traditional Knitted Lace Shawls and Stoles. Nirvana!!!! Not only did I love the patterns, I learned enough design techniques to design my own shawl. If you are out there somewhere reading this Martha, please know how much you and your work are loved.
Nancy Hannah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:12 pm
I think it is just me. I have a need to learn new things and knitting always eluded me. Why?
Because my mom knitted left, and frankly, my left hand is good for one thing… a paper weight!
Blame stubborn streaks… and all those people on Ravelry who hooked me on the Loopy Ewe.
8D
Thanks !
Nancy said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:22 pm
Ravelry has to be the biggest influence in my knitting life. I am so inspired by everyone’s projects I see there.
Smuddpie said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:24 pm
I would have to say it’s been blogs in general, followed by Lucy Neatby. I am so inspired by fellow knitting geeks who will try every variation on, say, short row technique they can find and decide which one they like best, what’s going on with each method, etc. Nona was one of my favorites, and I love the TECHKNITTER, but there are so many others who have posted great stuff. If I am wrestling with a particular problem I can almost always find someone who has wrestled with the same problem and written a wonderfully insightful post about it. We are so fortunate as craftspersons to live in this information age.
And Lucy. What can I say? She’s got a fabulous mind for knitting and teaching. Marvelous.
Loribird said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:26 pm
Though I find an immense amount of inspiration on Ravelry, I have to say that my greatest knitting influence is Elizabeth Zimmermann, or more specifically, her books. I was a fledgling knitter when I first was introduced to her philosophies, and I’ve been an avid student ever since. When I cannot knit, for whatever reason, I find myself picking up one of her books to re-read, and I am always drawn back into the stitches…
Sarah said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:26 pm
I’m completely self-taught so I can’t say it was a teacher or my mother.. although my mom taught me to crochet and that was sort of a jumping off point. I guess it would be Cookie A. I was really blown away by her crazy sock patterns and it made me look at knitting in a whole new way. The patterns I thought were cool suddenly were so vanilla.
Susan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:31 pm
My Mom….She was a great knitter. I started knitting projects when I was much younger but they were large and either never got finished or didn’t fit. Then after retirement I found socks! How great is that?
Deb Giuffre said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:35 pm
My granmother taught me to knit and my Home Economics teacher helped me to perfect it. However, the Ravelry group has to be my biggest influence. I feel that the KAL’s and Swaps have helped push the envelope and expand my skills. I get imspired by the projects and want to try new and different techniques with every swap. Their siupport system is also great!
Thank you Ravelry. Also thanks to The Loopy Ewe for the great yarn to inspire us all.
michelle said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:36 pm
I would have to say that Ravelry has had the greatest impact on my knitting life, I don’t know what I would do without it.
LaDonna said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:37 pm
I’ve always wanted to knit and couldn’t get the hang of it. My mother knew how, but hated doing it, so she wasn’t good at trying to teach it. I learned to crochet from her, though. I tried reading books and watching Internet videos, but to no avail. I fell in love with reading the Yarn Harlot’s blog after seeing a spot on the television about her book signing at a local book store and was determined that I would learn to knit. I finally found someone to teach me at a LYS. Stephanie was definitely the biggest influence. Then there is Ravelry…
Lynne said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:37 pm
Cat Bordhi has been the biggest influence in my second life of knitting after a long break. Her socks with personality gave me permission to experiment and explore. I now have many socks with personality too
My Grandmother taught me to knit when I was 5. She used to stay up all night to knit and finish a project. Knitting must be in my blood. I do not sit up all night but I try and grab any spare moment.
Maureen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:38 pm
My friend Kristie got me back knitting again, so her influence started this whole obsession thing! I love her for it.
Judi said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:45 pm
The handspun fibres, colours and textures guide me to look for the most suitable designs to plan projects for each one of them and these are mostly sort of found either online or from some keen knitting buddies. Socks are my favourite so designing different colours whilst dyeing then trying not to start before the yarn is completely dry becomes hard. Cannot wait to see what random dyed yarn will turn out like.
Jen said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:47 pm
Ha. My boyfriend had the biggest influence on my knitting. I haven’t been knitting long and it was because of him that I now do. Two christmases ago he got me a little kit with a book to teach yourself how to knit and I’m definitely hooked. Although, now he keeps saying things like, “More yarn again?!”
Megan said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:50 pm
My biggest influence is my former teacher Ellen at my LYS, Village Yarn and Tea. I found her when I came back to knitting after taking several years off, and she gave me the skills and encouragement to take my knitting to the next level. Thank you, Ellen!
Elaine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:52 pm
The Wollmeise, Claudia, has had the greatest influence on my knitting. I never knew socks could be so satisfying and addictive until I saw what knitters on Ravelry were doing with her yarn. I wanted to make these elegant, intricate creations too (even though I had only knit one pair of hiking socks with worsted and then felted them when they were too big). Now I always have two pair OTN – one for mindless take-along work and one that requires careful attention (and goes SLOWLY).
Barbara said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:54 pm
I would have to say that the Internet has been my biggest influence in knitting. It has exposed me to so many techniques, stitches, books, patterns, yarns, accessories, yarn shops etc. And most importantly people and their ideas in various online groups, including Ravelry. Right now my head is so full of ideas, my stash overflowing and my thumb drive loaded with both free and purchased patterns. Yes, the Internet and all it has to offer has, is, and will continue to be one of the biggest influences in my knitting.
seedless grape said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:55 pm
I’d say that the creators of Ravelry, Jess and Casey, have had the biggest influence on my knitting. That’s sort of a cheater answer, but . . . there you have it. Ravelry has really changed knitting for me, from what projects I tackle to what yarns I try. It’s really amazing! I can’t remember what knitting was like before it!
Nancy Mead said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:56 pm
The yarn and my Dad! I got one of those teach yourself books when I was a teenager. It said to hold the yarn in your right hand. Dad told me that was wrong, his Mom (who was from Finland) held the yarn in her left. I’ve been a lefty for 40 some years now. I LOVE the fun and beauty of yarn and designing projects to go with it. Of course, my stash is getting bigger all the time and I doubt I’ll ever be able to knit all the way thru it!
Dennine said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:57 pm
I feel very fortunate in that I have many influences in my (knitting) life.
My Mom & Nana are very important in why I do and love fibre arts, but paradoxically, not so much my own knitting (they did so much, so beautifully, I didn’t have to!)
Books from Anne Bourgois and Cat Bordhi got me going and shaped my interests, but the biggest influence has been a non-knitting friend Lisa, who introduced me to the Yarn Harlot books, from whence I found the blog, and then the larger on-line community with its inexhaustable links to further sources of inspiration!
Toby Stewart said,
August 24, 2009 @ 11:58 pm
I lived in the Netherlands for a year in 1952, when I was ten. My neighborhood friend Machteld always had ball of white wool and 3 or 4 short needles with her, in her pocket. She would pull it out and unobtrusively knit , keeping the ball in her pocket, while she walked and talked and looked after her little brother. She knit all the socks she and her little brother wore! Later I went to Carleton College in Minnesota where many girls knitted while we all stood in line for dinner. Lovely nordic style sweaters would gradually materialize: I’d see them later on various boyfriends. That’s when I started to knit and have knit ever since.
Laura said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:00 am
Two people have influenced my knitting the most. First is my mom, who isn’t a knitter. She always quilted as I grew up and taught me to crochet — she instilled a love of needlecrafts in me. Second, I’d have to say that Stephanie Pearl-McPhee has influenced my knitting the most, too. She made me love to knit socks!
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:02 am
Without a doubt, my friend Jo Anne has been my biggest knitting influence. When she suggested we take a knitting class, I said, “What?? In Hawaii?? Nah. Besides, I’m a crocheter. Why would I want to learn to knit?” Famous last words. Thanks to Jo, I’m an avid knitter, but I still have trouble waiting until it’s cold enough to wear any of the lovely socks I’ve knit. Makes me want to move to Seattle, actually. But then…Jo doesn’t live there. So here I’ll stay.
Meredith said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:04 am
Ooooooo. Good question. I think that my sister, who has a yarn shop in Sechelt, B.C., has been my biggest influence in recent years.
CK said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:05 am
Definitely my mom, who taught me to knit many years ago and never comes to visit without a knitting, crochet or needlepoint project in hand. However, I did take it further on my own, encouraged by both the internet and the knitting circle I started…I also want to thank Amy of knittinghelp.com, whose online videos were really helpful to me a few years back when I was getting back into knitting. I send new knitters over there all the time.
Helen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:05 am
My Nana is my influence. She was the one in the family that always knitted everything that was needed. Growing up, all my sweaters were handmade by her. Now she’s a lot older and arthritis has taken her finger movements, all her old patterns and needles are sitting in my mothers attic. I can’t wait for the day when I get to go through that treasure trove and start making the stuff that she knitted for her grandkids for my kids and grandkids.
Krista Wilkinson said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:07 am
My Fairbanks Fiberistas. We are an awesome community of knitters.
Joyce said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:15 am
I would say my biggest kintting influence is our group that meets every Monday here in Ellisville, MO…I look forward to knitting, sharing ideas, show and tell and best of all the help….It’s a great group…and of course the fabulous yarns , patterns and shops like yours out there to inspire us….
Misty said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:16 am
Biggest influence has to be Nicky Epstein. All her books make me drool and want to knit more.
My grandmother has recently picked up knitting and I love to show her things… not so much influence but definitely a motivator.
Bad Mommy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:22 am
I’d have to say that it’s the internet in general that’s most influenced my knitting. I started out (re)teaching myself to knit. I loved it from the start, but it was a solitary activity in the beginning and when I was ready to make it a group activity, it was through the internet that I found my local Yahoo Stitch N Bitch; through that online group I learned about LYSs & found my regular group of Knit Nighters. From there, I discovered the Yarn Harlot, Franklin Habit and a zillion other great knit blogs and then found podcasts. I found TLE online (!) and then, of course, there’s Ravelry. My local buddies are integral to my enjoyment of knitting; the worldwide community and everything I can see and learn and enjoy on the internet is the icing on the cake.
Meg said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:24 am
I think Ravelry in general has been my biggest influence, with its superb design and vast resources! I’ve learned so much from so many since becoming a member.
kat said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:26 am
My biggest knitting influence is Ravelry (well, actually all of the wonderful knitters who make up Ravelry). I love to see all of the new patterns and projects and yarns that are always being added and to read about other knitter’s experiences. I also love to see all of the different ways different knitters interpret the same pattern, adding their own style to it – very inspiring!
Jules said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:28 am
My biggest influence would be my Mom. And it wasn’t until after she passed away that she became this big influence one me. Mom couldn’t knit but she loved to look at my knitting and also was commissioning me to knit scarves, socks and other goodies for her friends. She loved to brag that her “daughter made that!” and to show of the knit goods that I made. I wasn’t even very good, just beginning but she loved it. She passed away almost 2 years ago and I can’t bring out the yarn or needles without thinking of my Mama.
turtle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:28 am
the biggest influence? the internet! When i surf i see so many talented people doing cool knit-ish things… and i want to try them all and learn the new techniques. SO as much as the influence comes from the folks online, for me directly? it is the internet itself allowing me to view things past my front lawn.
Paula said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:29 am
My biggest influence would be my daughter. She taught me to knit and has gently pushed me to try new things – lace, socks…without her I would still be doing only scarves.
Joan Callaway said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:34 am
Originally, my favorite aunt had the most influence on my knitting…she taught me to knit and crochet when I was about 10. I spent a lot of that summer with her and she kept me occupied with lots of yarn projects. However, more recently, I would say it has to be Wendy. From her book I was inspired to try toe-up socks…and there’s no lookin’ back! I also learned from her that knitting on two circular needles with Judy’s Magic Cast-on is ever so much simpler than provisional cast-on and dpn’s.
Joy Schmitt said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:37 am
I am the only member of my family that has any interests in handmade items, so I have always sought out classes and info at LYS and now we have the Internet to answer all our questions and entice us with yarns at all the online stores and blogs. I never feel alone as there are so many bloggers out there. I keep learning more everyday. What fun. Thank you for a wonderful blog and online store.
Brenna said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:42 am
It really varies a lot who influences me the most.
Of course the internet influences me since I have access to so many sources that I might not find in a local shop. My mother influences me also as she helped teach me to knit. Work influences me because I need to have portable projects that I can walk away from at a moment’s notice.
I love that my knitting grows by the influences in my life. I have attempted things I might not have tried in pursuit of gorgeous knits to give as gifts also.
daniele said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:49 am
Definitely Internet and all the knitty community on the web, including of course Ravelry and the talented people – designers or not – who write and post tutorials. You can find anything on the Net : from supply to support, from notions to how-to’s, and the powerful feeling of belonging to a community of wonderful, fun, passionate and generous people.
And also a special mention to EZ, whose generosity still pours on us. How grand is that ?
Julia said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:50 am
I’d say, my mom had the biggest influence on my knitting. She is not the MASTER knitter, just some hats, socks or mittens here and there, but she taught me that no-nonsense approach to knitting that you don’t have to follow a pattern or use the exact yarn for a project, you can always figure out what to do to achieve the results you want.
Ellen Hartzler said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:50 am
I’ve always been a self starter, but with knitting I would often get “stuck”. The person who has been the best influence on me is my Knitting BFF Glenna!. She is a great teacher, she inspires me and she’s fun to knit with! Thanks Glenna
Rose-Marie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:52 am
I would have to say my grandmother for making me want to keep up the knitting-gene in the family, even though we never knitted together.
And Wendy (Wendyknits) for making we want to knit lots and lots of socks.
Megan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:57 am
The biggest influences in my knitting life are my knit group and ravelry. The communities intrigue, inspire and challenge me every day.
Toni said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:05 am
The Saturday Knitting Group influenced me the most. Everything they knit is always so pretty and they’re always so encouraging and helpful. Just wish we could meet every
Saturday instead of every other Saturday. I like these ladies a lot. They’re great.
Devi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:06 am
Hand down Brenda Dayne. Her podcast ‘Cast-on’ changed the way I knit forever. I’ve been knitting for over twelve years, but it wasn’t until about six months ago when I first discovered the podcast that i really started thinking, I mean really thinking, about knitting. How history, geography, literature, mythology, art, nature, science and technology can all play a role in our knitting. I’ve learned so much and been introduced to so many various resources and possibilities via her show that at times I feel a bit overwhelmed. When i do, i just listen to an episode and her humor, wit, knowledge, and candor get me right back on track.
Dawn Anderson said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:09 am
A lady called Ann Segrest has influenced me the most. I first met her when she taught me to tat about 7 years ago. Now, for the last 2 years, I’ve also been in her knitting group. She’s a wonderful lady–in her eight decade, no less–and loves to share her love of the needlearts w/ whomever wishes to learn. She’s been a great inspiration and a great friend.
Melissa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:10 am
my Ravelry friends.
Kristen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:10 am
I would have to say Elizabeth Zimmermann, her books taught me to experiment with design and inspired me to think outside the box.
Becky said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:13 am
I think that Ann Budd was probably the biggest influence on my knitting. I got a copy of her “Knitter’s Handy Book of Patterns” very early on in my knitting career, and the idea that patterns are suggestions and they can/should be modified to get individualized results has served me well.
Debbie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:18 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has been the beautiful colors of the yarn available!
perletwo said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:19 am
Hmm. The most influence? I taught myself to knit from books, so probably Maggie Righetti (Knitting in Plain English) and Elizabeth Zimmerman. Also the regular pattern designers for Knitter’s Magazine, especially Sally Melville and Norah Gaughan.
I reached a point where I just couldn’t keep up with it, but at one time the hundreds of subscribers to the Knitlist email digests were important – they “talked” me through learning to do my first pair of socks!
Elizabeth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:21 am
I also have to credit Maggie Righetti and Elizabeth Zimmerman but also a big influence on my knitting is all of the wonderful knitters who blog. Yarn Harlot, Knitspot and Wendy Knits to name just a few.
Amy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:21 am
I’m not sure where the inspiration to start knitting came from – I taught myself from a book – but my biggest influence has been my knitting buddy. Our mutual enthusiasm for each other’s projects really helped keep me going.
yvonnep said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:30 am
Several people inspire me, each for different things. Lies for socks, Carla for better knitting, Hilly for shawls. F.e. I’m also much inspired by websites and books and… last, but not least, meetings with ‘great knitting women’ like the Yarn Harlot last year, last week Nancy Bush (!!!!) and two years ago Alice Starmore. Awesome to listen to them.
annelene said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:34 am
My grandmother has been my biggest knitting and craft influence
Francesca said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:37 am
The Stash and Burn podcast really helped my knitting because they encouraged getting on Ravelry. From there Ravelry, I got more involved in the internet knitting community while expanding my own knowledge by getting books I’d see recommended on blogs from the library and reading up. Within a year, I was no longer a beginning knitter. By knitting everyday and taking a little time to check in on the knitting world online I’ve been able to follow trend and improve my knitting. I find it inspiring to see so many people devoted to knitting and then discussing it online.
Sarah Jones said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:38 am
mmmm tough question! I think Ravelry and my Plurk buds have the biggest influence at the moment. Seeing what others knit/crochet definately inspires me. I love to look through Rav to see what the latest patterns are and there is always a photo on plurk of a completed project or a WIP. There are some very talented people out there and I love to see what they are up to.
Barbara in NC said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:44 am
The Internet and all it has to offer has and will continue to be the biggest influence on my knitting. I have been exposed to, learned and acquired so much more related to knitting than I ever could without it.
Rebekah Porter said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:48 am
My coworkers and friends at my LYS (Stash, in Berkeley, CA) have been my biggest knitting influences. And enablers…..we often finding ourselves casting on for the same project or obsessing over the same yarns.
Natasha said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:50 am
Hmmmm – I would say my Mum for teaching me to knit in the first place (and being very encouraging of my first efforts!), my daughter for causing me to pick up the needles again after a loooong hiatus, Wendy Johnson and Cookie A for introducing me to the joys of sock knitting, but MOST of all, the Knitting Goddesses group on Ravelry – they are seriously the most supportive/encouraging group I’ve ever ‘met’!
Lahodges said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:50 am
My knitting group has the biggest influence on my knitting. Actually seeing projects every week in person that my knitting pals are working on inspires me to make projects I may not make otherwise.
Betsy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:53 am
My grandmother…
She was from The Netherlands. My dad would read the english knitting patterns to her and her needles would click away!
~Kristie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:56 am
My knit night group has had the most influence on me. They continually inspire me to be a better knitter, and I’ve made lifelong friendships as well.
Abi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:01 am
Currently, the Wendy Ravelry sock KAL (I can’t fit in time for anything else and am now a sockaholic!), but previously, it was my mother.
Genny said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:05 am
There are three people who have the most influence on my knitting – the three women I’ve taught to knit! I’m one of those people who enjoys doing the same things over and over, and without the three of them I’d still be doing the same couple of things. L has gotten me to think more technically about knitting, about the whys and wherefores. She once rang me and asked me to explain how to work a p2togtbl – over the telephone! H is the most fearless, ready to tackle anything, but she still calls me from the LYS once or twice a month to ask about what yarn she should buy to make project X. Her tastes in projects are very different to mine, so I’ve had to learn a lot about how different yarns work for a huge range of garments. And from G I’ve been inspired to really learn how to teach. She’s an incredibly talented knitter, but very, very nervous about trying out new things. Working with G has inspired me to find ways to make the ‘oooh, scary’ knitting techniques more approachable, as well as trying them out for myself so I can share my own experiences with her.
Great question, thanks for asking it!
Linda Tabor said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:23 am
I don’t remember who taught me to knit and crochet so so soooooo many years ago, but I am ever oh so eternally greatful that someone did take the time and effort to teach me. I too have knitted and crocheted on and off over the years… but over the last 10 years it is the people and shops that posts their works for all the world to see on the Internet that has inspired and challenged me. So many wonderfully talented people!!! So many absolutely amazing yarns… The people who attend my weekly knitting and crochet classes keep me inspired. Every time a new student walks through the door and wants to learn to knit or crochet it just thrills and delights me, but when students keep coming back… it just continues to be very very special!!!!
Then of course there is all of y’all…
Sincerely,
Adrienne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:44 am
My biggest influence in recent years is the need for custom knits for myself and loved ones. I prefer handmade over store bought, and knitting brings me that much closer to my dream of only wearing what I make!
Vanessa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:01 am
Without my mother, who taught me to knit when I was ten, I wouldn’t be here, and my daughter currently inspires me to reach beyond my comfort level to try new things. Without her, I would never have tried socks, which are now my favorite things, or lace, about which I remain ambivalent. Beyond that, I am continually engaged by the community of knitters online, in books, and in my local yarn shops.
Sandie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:10 am
I think the biggest influence, currently, has been the Yarn Harlot. I get to thinking I don’t really need any new project, and then……I start reading her blog, there are pictures, I just don’t know exactly how it happens, but I do seem to have quite a few things around here that I saw there
Jeanie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:15 am
Definitely the biggest influence on my knitting was my mother who taught me to knit and also my grandmother who spent her time knitting socks. More recently, Kim Hargreaves is the most amazing designer and has influenced me no end as has Debbie Abrahams.
Jeanette said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:31 am
I only knitted for about 20 months and i must say it is because i got pregnant whit my daughter. It is so much beautiful knitting work to baby and children, when i started knitting i just couldn’t stop. I have knitted every day for the last 20 months and i just want to knit more, cant understand what i did before. I don`t have anyone to learn me, so i tried and failed and think i come a long way already. Ravely and a norwegian forum, “hobbyboden” gives me great inspiration.
Mary said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:17 am
Many years ago, when I was a teenager (but had been knitting for 10 years already) I saw a TV news story on a knitting designer, who said that it’s okay to buy single balls of yarn, if you love the colour, and to mix them up as much as you like. I don’t remember who it was, but I believe it was probably Kaffe Fassett. So he would have to be my biggest influence.
And all the knitting books at the library. Without fail I check out what’s new at 746.432, every visit!
Julia said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:30 am
I listen to several podcasts during the week: Knitmore Girls, Stitch It, Yarnspinners Tales and At the Kitchen Table, etc.. They have had a great influence on my knitting and spinning, but I guess I am pretty self motivated because I have no friends who knit.
KSee said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:34 am
Nana taught me to knit at 7. I did not really start knitting until 2005 (then 55) and have not put the needles down. The Internet help me find http://virtualvacationswap.blogspot.com/, I have made friends with many that joined this vacation. BTW, this was the 1st & last swap I joined. I like the knitting process and the friends. Too much stress at work let alone trying to keep up with swap packages (and the one upmanship) My co-worker Carol has been the biggest help on keeping me focused. She said I over think the patterns! I have not found a LYS that has made itself assessable for a one on one. Your blog and emails keep me posted, I have my list on g00gle reader and my bl0gger freinds held support me.
Ilje said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:37 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has to be the internet. It was where I learnt to knit again after not having done it since I was a kid. It is where I find all my patterns. It is where I get inspiration to try out new techniques. It is where I can look at pictures of the finished garments and see how they turn out. And, of course, it’s where Ravelry is!
taryn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:45 am
My grandmother. She taught me how to knit, but the reason I continued is because I did not want one of her talents to be lost after she is gone.
Trine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:58 am
I think my grandma has been the biggest influence. She’s patiently taught me and re-taught me several times through the years, always encouraged me and marvelled over my finished objects (no matter how messy) and when I started trying new techniques and yarns, she always listened enthusiastically. My grandma is my absolute favourite person to show new FOs.
And without her, I may have never learned to knit!
Kathy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:19 am
I’m influenced by what I want to wear that I can only imagine and don’t always see in the stores. I want that comfy go-to item that I can grab and love (but haven’t created yet). I’m influenced by the colors of nature and it makes me happy on a cold day to see my brightly colored socks sticking out below my pants! Wearing my handknit socks is like a day long hug.
I’m influenced by all of the wonderful creative people I’ve met online, I’ve been blogging for almost 9 years now and cannot believe the relationships I’ve formed and what I’ve learned from so many people.
gina said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:30 am
It would have to be Ravelry. Not only does it inspire due to the exposure to yarns and patterns it is the group that continues to support and sustain me.
Jenn Hall said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:39 am
My knitting group has had the biggest influence on my knitting. I taught myself to knit from books, but didn’t know anyone else who knitted. Our group started at WWKIP a couple of years ago, and that’s when my friend Paula showed me that I was twisting my stitches. Now my knitting hangs strraight (instead of on a bias), and it’s all becaue Paula showed me what I was doing weirdly.
Mary R said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:45 am
My Mom taught me to knit when I was five and was certainly an influence on my knitting, but I think that the biggest influence on my knitting life would have to be my late Godmother, Aunt Ruth. Aunt Ruth was a fabulous knitter and was fearless. She would try anything and oftentimes make things up as she went along.
Aunt Ruth was a test knitter for several yarn companies back in the 1950’s and 1960’s and today I have some of the proof books that she test knit from. When I got married 25 years ago, she knit me a toasty warm shawl for my January wedding day. I still treasure it.
Aunt Ruth has been gone for quite a few years, but I was lucky enough to inherit all of her knitting needles, notions and patterns. When I use them, I am sometimes transported back to the days when I was learning to knit and she would patiently explain a stitch or technique to me. She would be amazed to see all of the yarns and patterns available today. I wish she was still here to see how much of a Knitter that I have become!
Happy Anniversary Month, Loopy!
Deedee Winters said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:45 am
Elizabeth Zimmermann by far! I was lucky enough to get her book Knitting without Tears right after I taught myself to knit and it’s been on ever since. I wish I had been able to meet her.
Betty said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:52 am
Hi Sheri
I was most influenced by my Mom. She taught all of us to knit around the time that we started school – I remember sitting in the kitchen repeating to myself ‘in, over, through, off’ and my Dad ( who was on the night shift) coming into the kitchen and asking if I could keep my voice down as he was trying to sleep! I think I have knitted since then about 50 years ago sometimes taking a break but I have always had some sort of yarn hidden away waiting for me to get the urge again. I knit my first pair of socks about 5 years ago and this is now my go to item when I want something to keep me occupied when watching TV.
Rosanne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:52 am
I really think that Ravelry has been the biggest influence on my knitting. It is such a great resource. I have been knitting for as long as I can remember, but it’s really so much more mainstream than it has been for years and I believe that the internet and tools like Ravelry have made that happen. Happy Anniversary and keep up the great work.
Carolyn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 5:54 am
My knitting circle friends. They encourage me an make me want to knit a more complex piece. (I am a new knitter) Cindy the organizer of the group is always looking for cool patterns to knit and she can answer most of our crazy questions.
Arlene said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:00 am
Hands down, it’s the Sock Knitters Anonymous group on Ravelry! Before I found them, I had knit one worsted weight sock. Now because of all the advice and encouragement from this group, I can pretty much knit any socks I want – lace, cables, toe-up, top down, you name it. And I’m obsessed with socks!
slavicdiva said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:03 am
My friend Robin, Ravelry, and Cookie A.
I mostly knit socks, although I have made a few sweaters. I like having a little project that I can take along to work, or doctor’s offices, or anyplace else I have to wait. When I discovered Cookie A’s beautiful patterns, I wanted to knit them all (still do, and working on it)!
Ravelry is awesome, but also dangerous – a great resource, a place to find terrific new patters, and to see so many gorgeous yarns! And find great shops like The Loopy Ewe that feed my addiction.
ChristyH said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:03 am
I would have to say my online friends have really influenced me. Pat of http://www.Patsknittingandquilting.com and Linda from ravelry. Both ladies have really inspired me to learn more and do better in my sock knitting.
My mom has also pushed but mostly we have learned together as she has discovered sock knitting too.
Susan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:04 am
No one in my family knit, so I took lessons at a local knit shop. The wonderful people there have inspired me, encouraged me and awed me with their knowledge and enthusiasm. I owe them so much for all their support.
Kristen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:06 am
My biggest knitting influence is my best friend, Jen. She’s always encouraging me to try new things and she’s the one who introduced me to the wonderful world of knitting SOCKS!!
Darlene Palmer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:06 am
I have been most influenced by Ravelry and the people I have met there! My sock knitting has soared to whole new levels! Darlene
Marian A said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:06 am
My knitting influences are:
learning to knit – my Polish Grandmother who did not speak much English, but imparted the love of the needle arts to me.
My Mom who always had something going in her hands
Theresa Gaffey – who re-instilled the love
and Sharon at Three Irish Girls for her beautiful yarns, colors and spirit
Dixie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:08 am
I think the single biggest influence on my knitting (among other things) has been the Yarn Harlot. I started reading knitting blogs because of her, and I come back to the tips she’s given time and time again. Since a lot of her material comes from Elizabeth Zimmerman, that’s sort of an indirect influence.
After them, the people I knit with — in real life and in the virtual world. I joined a knitalong early on that ended up testing my skills over the course of a year, and it did wonders for getting me out of my “comfort zone” and improving my craft.
Stephanie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:08 am
I’ve been knitting what feels like forever and I’m self-taught. However, the wonderful indie dyers who make the most beautiful sock yarns have definitely been an influence. The gorgeous sock yarns challenged me to learn to knit socks. And then I found Wendy – who taught me to knit toe up (which I adore), who taught me to knit with two circular needles (which I adore), and who has challenged me to learn to knit lace by way of her fantastic patterns.
Jennifer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:08 am
i gather inspiration from everywhere. i love looking at magazines, browsing patterns on ravelry, i listen to podcasts and check out patterns mentioned, look at books, etc. inspriation is everywhere!
Brianna said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:14 am
Two major inspirations in my knitting life. My best friend (the one who turned me on to Ravelry and TLE) has always been my knitting guide- she taught me how to knit socks when I was a freshman in college, and I’ve been unstoppable ever since! We’re even doing the same pattern for the SKA with the same yarn (that she dyed).
My second inspiration is Cookie A. Man, I wish I could design like her. Instead, I just have to knit everything she designs
Kirsten Hall said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:15 am
My supportive knit group gives me bits and pieces of yarn that I MUST do something with, and my family supports my multi-yarn messes that cover the kitchen table.
Robin Desrosiers said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:17 am
The wonderful groups Socks That Rock and Knitspot on Ravelry both inspire me to try new projects with many different yarn bases and colors. I love going to their project pages and stash pages so I can see what is new in patterns, fibers and colors. They are also very helpful with understanding knitting techniques and matching colors. Basically, I just love them all.
Jen T. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:18 am
Who was the biggest influence on my knitting? Can I nominate a website? If so, then ravelry. Otherwise, I’d have to say my friends in Loopy’s F5 Lounge who keep showing off such fantastic projects and give me the courage to try new things myself.
Ellen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:18 am
My daughter Bethany and her sister Paget. They are both expert knitters and keep me inspired.
Janet said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:18 am
Catt Bordhi and you, Sheri. Cat for teaching me a way to knit socks that has turned me into a sock maniac. And you for providing a sock yarn paradise! I know that you will have the best of the best and the newest of the new. All at the touch of my keyboard night or day. I tell all my best friends about the Loopy Ewe. Not only is your store fantastic, but I feel that I’ve come to know you a bit as a personal friend through your blog. You’re a wonderful person with a lovely family, and you deserve all the success that comes your way. Long live the Loopy Ewe!
ruby ascah said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:18 am
i was taught to knit by my granmother many years ago, and i have alway knit, but i met my friend Deb, she is a great knitter , has some patterns published and does some teaching so she inspired to knit fancy things i know knit easy lace
ruby in montreal
Kay said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:21 am
I took a class at first – but I am mostly self taught. I fin I understand things better if I have to struggle through it by myself – maybe with some internet help. My two absolute knitting heroes are Cat Bordi and EZ. THay have a big influence of creativity. It is just knitting – it can be re-done if it is wrong…but oh there is so many things that you can do with knitting.
Steven said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:24 am
One of my best friends, Katie, has probably had the biggest influence on me in terms of my knitting. She was the one who reeled me back into knitting after a few years of separation. She then painstakingly stuck by me to continuously show me new techniques over and over again. Finally, she was a great support that always believed in me and pushed me to go on and try and succeed at new and interesting things. She unfortunately has just recently left to go teach in China for a year so she will be missed dearly, but I wish her the best of luck, joy, and happiness.
Jen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:24 am
There are a few designers that I tend to follow now and then, including Veronik Avery, Sarah Hatton, Sarah Dallas and Kim Hargreaves. They seem to produce such classic and stylish patterns again and again. However I like to think the thing that has influenced my knitting most lately has been Ravelry. I’ll see a project or a yarn and then click on the yarn and see another project…it’s just endless the possibilities! Some days you can just get lost in Ravelry. Most days, that is.
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:27 am
I would say that I am most influenced by Cat Bordhi and her unique approach to knitting. I love to play with patterns and try new thing out. Socks are currently my favorite thing to knit and I am designing my own now.
Annie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:28 am
Before Ravelry I read alot of knitting blogs, and that really inspired me! Lolly and BrooklynTweed, The Yarn Harlot and WendyKnits…I read all of the “biggies”!
Now I’m inspired every day by all the wonderful friends I’ve made through Ravelry:)
Robin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:28 am
My mom was my early influence-teaching me to knit at age 5- she is still a fabulous knitter but my current influences are my friends at Knit Knite- we meet every Thursday and they inspire me with their creativity and enthusiasm.
Vicki Cocherl said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:28 am
I would have to say first my SNB Group. They are the best friends a knitter could ask for. So much inspiration from projects shared. We go to LYS together and wool gatherings. Also made a few field trips to farms. Then Ravelry, everyone on there is so nie and so very helpful. I have met people from all over the world. And Thirdly and this will sound staged but it’s not LOOPY for all the beautiful yarn I am compelled to buy. You display it and I buy it . well then I gotta make something wonderful with it. And last but not leist my husband for all his praise.
Karin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:29 am
I would say Ravelry is my biggest influence. I check patterns and what my friends have favorited or queued daily. That definitely affects what is next on my queue.
Sue H said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:30 am
MY mother taught me how to knit eons ago but currently it’s just me trying to do better each time. Not sure I’m achieving that but it’s the trying that counts isn’t it??
Debbi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:31 am
It hasn’t been so much a “who” as a “what”…and the “what” would be the Internet. First I discovered knitting blogs, especially WendyKnits and YarnHarlot. Then I discovered that I could order all these fabulous yarns on the Internet! Hello Loopy Ewe! I was no longer limited by what I already knew how to do. I could knit socks? Cool! I could knit socks on two circular needles? Way Cool! A shawl? Use size 0 needles? Amazing! The wealth of information, patterns, techniques and yarns and truly amazing people that I’ve never met but feel a debt of gratitude to have truly changed who I am as a knitter.
Jenn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:35 am
My grandmother taught me to knit when I was small – then refreshed my memory when I got older – and is now expanding her knitting horizens because of my knitting. I’m so glad we have something to ‘connect’ over – I’m always so proud of her new knitting endeavors – and I’m sure she loves to see the girl who made hideous scarves making so much more now!
Lois said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:37 am
The wonderful folks at the Atlanta Knitting Guild have the greatest influence on my knitting. They constantly push me to try new things and inspire me with the glorious knits they produce. Special thanks to Pat and Debra and Donna – enablers extraordinaire.
Robin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:39 am
I was blessed with a maternal grandmother, who was able to do many domestic arts. She taught me to knit, crochet, cook, and sew probably before I could read. I have continued to study and learn more about these crafts throughout my life. I think that my early learning of the basics has given me the confidence to try new skills.
Sharilyn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:40 am
In unoriginal fashion…
Ravelry and the Yarn Harlot are the biggest current influences on my knitting. My grandma and my sister’s husband’s grandma gave me their needles and I think about each of them when I use them.
Happy Anniversary!
noallatin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:41 am
3 people influenced my return to knitting after 20 years. Two collegues at school encouraged me to join them in a socing kn itting class offered as a non credit course at a local community college. The other person is the instructor of the class. She gently encouraged her students, even those who jumped into a sock knitting class with no knitting knowledge.
Amanda said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:42 am
The staff and teachers at my LYS, Woolwinders. They got me started down the knitting path, and I have not stopped since!
Molly said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:42 am
I’m not really sure why I learned/love to knit, although I did discover after I started knitting that my mom was an incredibly talented knitter — but not until I was about 25 years old. She had never knit before in my presence and then presented me with this amazing afghan. To this day, I can’t figure out how she hid the ends so perfectly…I can’t find a single one and the blanket is huge and unbelievably complex. Ironically, that end tucking thing is the part of knitting that I still can’t do to my satisfaction!
Pati said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:42 am
my biggest influence? the yarn…the myriad of colors. the feel of the slightly scratchy wool, crisp cotton, oh-so-soft cashmere. even the sheepy smell of raw wool….and mostly, the potential each skein or ball of yarn has to become something wonderful for someone. it’s like a child – it may not become what *you* originally wanted, but it becomes something useful, beautiful to someone, and hopefully not a menace to society!
Robin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:43 am
My best friend,Annette! She got me into knitting when I wasn’t doing anything with my handspun yarn.
Danielle from SW MO said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:45 am
I learned to knit from my Great-Grandma as a child and my mom is/was never without some kind of sewing/crocheting project. However after several yrs of hit and miss knitting/crocheting/sewing I was told (yes told not inspired by) by my PT/OT to take it back up specifically finer gauge knitting as that would be the best therapy for my hands. Now I do some finer and or worsted/sport gauge knitting most everyday just to maintain and not loose anymore muscle tone in my hands.
Shannon H. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:47 am
My biggest influence has been my Aunt Jackie. She helped fuel the fire for knitting, and we’ve both been knitting fairly consistently for the past ten years.
Karen Lauterwasser said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:49 am
I guess my biggest influence these days would be my knitting group friends. If I have a problem or need inspiration, I can count on them to help me out.
Max said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:52 am
I learned to knit when I was 24. I started to make socks out of very thick wool and my boss, Ilga Leja by the way, was doing more “advanced” stuff. One Christmas all the librarians got together and bought me Nancy Bush’s Folk Socks.
Pamela B said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:54 am
Without a doubt, it was Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, aka The Yarn Harlot. I picked up a copy of Knitting Rules at my public library. Laughed, identified, adopted her phrase “It’s only knitting,” and was enticed by her to make my first pair of handknit socks, using my now-beloved DPNs for the very first time.
Happy Anniversary, TLE!
Monet said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:57 am
My biggest influence I guess would be my BFF Beth who taught me how to knit 3 1/2 years ago. She’s taught me numerous techniques, but mainly to not be afraid of a pattern. And when in doubt, “read the pattern”…
Jennifer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:58 am
I think it goes back to the woman who retaught me to knit – Renee. If she hadn’t got me knitting again I wouldn’t do what I do today.
Rita said,
August 25, 2009 @ 6:59 am
Ravelry has been my biggest influence. I’ve discovered so many yarns and patterns! And of course, all the awesome people.
Alison said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:00 am
Agree, it has to be Ravelry!
Kathy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:01 am
There are so many sources of influence and inspiration. My knitting group keeps me on my toes, not to mention Ravelry. In the designer category, Anne Hanson’s designs keep me inspired and stiving to do more. Quite honestly, almost every knitter I meet is an influence!
Kim said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:03 am
The biggest influence on my knitting would have to a “what” rather than a “who” – Ravelry. I was knitting along after being taught by my LYS owner, Susan Wolcott. I learned to really enjoy knitting socks from the toe up after find Wendy Johnson’s blog. But when Ravelry came along (and I think I must have been one of the first few hundred members) everything changed. Suddenly a whole new world of knitting was opened up to me and I reveled in Ravelry.
bonny said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:04 am
My sons have had the most influence on my knitting. It’s always wonderful to have them ask me to make something special, whether it’s camouflage hunting socks or a scarf to celebrate heading off to college. Love is knit into every stitch for them, and that’s why they are my biggest influence!
Crystal Baker said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:06 am
The influence that motivated me to learn to knit was my mom and a pair of mitten she made me when I was little. They were white little cabled mittens, probably a 4 H pattern but those and the love she made them with has stuck with me for more than 30 years.
Wendy Knits and the Yarn Harlot as well as many other bloggers have kept me knitting. They’ve helped me realize that my knitting isn’t old fashioned or something that needed to be hidden behind closed doors. But that it is something beautiful and that it’s okay to enjoy knitting and yarn (even in public).
urbanknitrix said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:10 am
My coworker is my biggest influence. She taught me so much. I taught myself to knit, however she made everything much clearer.
Also, Brooklyntweed and all the other great ravelers inspire me with their beautiful handknits.
Ellen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:11 am
I think I would have to say me. I’m a sewer at heart but have crocheted, done needlepoint, counted cross stitch, rug hooking, etc. etc. and just figured that my one sad attempt at knitting at about age 10 was so dismal that I would live out my life without learning to knit. But at about age 50, I thought that didn’t have to be the case and took a one hour class and went on to read books, magazines and the internet for hours at end and tried everything I could and I think that 7 years later, I am now doing pretty good! Mittens are my favorite but have made hats, scarves, socks and am ready to launch a sweater!
Elise said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:11 am
My biggest knitting influence is indeed a Ravelry group–the Harry Potter Knitting and Crochet House Cup! I’ve knit several sweaters and innumerable small projects using techniques I never would have encountered or tried out after being pushed to earn points for Hufflepuff House. I’m so grateful to everyone there.
Sarah said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:12 am
I had wanted to learn to knit for awhile. I finally decided to give it a try 3 years ago. I was very lucky to find a wonderful teacher. Her name is Linda, she is the LYS owner. She has been the biggiest influnece on my knitting. She taught me how to think out of the box with my knitting. As a result I have a I can do that approch to all knitting projects.
CTJen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:12 am
I think the Yarn Harlot has influenced me (and fueled my obsession) the most. But I’ve also been inspired by EZ and Margaret Stove and Barbara Walker and Cat Bhordi. Peggy, a blogger known as Noodleknit on Ravelry always inspired me with her enthusiasm (although I haven’t seen a new blog post from her in a while!) and Deb (livnletlrn on Ravelry) and her daughter feel like kindred spirits too.
Jessica in CT said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:13 am
Wow! Great question…. My first influence(s) would have to be my Nana (Sophie Pressley) and Great Grandmother (Fanny McDonald) my first inspirations and first teachers. When I was in high school my crafts teacher, Myra Aronow was very inspirational in her freeform approach to crochet- she made an amazing freeform bag every year- she was awe-inspiring! In college I would run to a wonderful group of knitters in Syracuse at a now closed yarn store for help and guidance…. They lovingly laughed at my terror over dropped stitches and my way of dropping the yarn and picking it up again during purl rows. Currently, I turn to my favorite books by Zimmermann, Thomas, Zilboorg, Budd, Walker, Philips, Starmore, Clark, Bush- I could go on and on….. And sweet, sweet Ravelry has so very many lovely, helpful and wonderfully talented designers- it’s an amazing time for knitting- I’m in love with my craft…… My students in my inner-city NAMP knitting group with their dedication and passion for their new found craft is awe-inspiring! Can’t forget the Loopy Ewe- you guys have the best customer service and so many sweet giveaways and your generosity is truly in the wonderful tradition on knitting love!
3!
Thanks for the opportunity and Congrats on your success and love for what you do!
-Jessica in CT
MaryEllen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:13 am
I think the Yarn Harlot has had the biggest influence on my knitting. Before I started reading her blog and her books, I didn’t know there was a whole world of knitters out there. Her humor and insight on all things knitting-related (and some things not-so-knitting-related) has inspired me to learn more about the craft I love, and to not be afraid to share it with others.
mary beth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:17 am
My Mom had the greatest influence on my knitting!!!!
Cindy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:18 am
I remember wearing all those hand knit mittens by my mom. They were always the best things to have during those long winter days as a child. I learned the basics from her and eventhough I took a long break from knitting I have returned to it and enjoy the idea of passing that on
Kathleen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:19 am
My mother and Aunt Yvette (mom’s sister) have always been a huge influence on my knitting. I remember growing up and the two of them knitting baby clothes and socks. I always wanted to be as talented as them and learn to knit. Problem was I didn’t have the talent for it. Finally in my 40’s I was determined to learn so I taught myself by starting out with socks. Now, I love it and can’t stop knitting. I now look at other knitters on Ravelry and see what they’ve completed and think “if they can do it, I can do it”, so I continue to challenge myself with new projects.
Jo said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:19 am
My LYS. When they get something fabulous in stock that I want to knit with. Or when they get in a new book of patterns that has something I can’t wait to knit. Sometimes, given my level of experience (knitting since Nov 2006), this can result in some gruesome looking projects, but I learn from them all and have fun trying. And not as much fun ripping.
Renae said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:21 am
Ravelry has had the biggest influence on my knitting. My knitting knowledge & base was limited to pattern pamphlets in Wal-Mart & Michaels and endless afghans & dishcloths. Now I can explore amazing yarns & patterns!
Lori Bollinger said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:22 am
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, hands down. Not just because she is insanely funny or because she knits but because she (actually her book, Knitting Rules) helped me to lose my fear. Because of her I made my first pair of socks and finally realized that I could make more than a simple scarf or blanket. Now I see a sweater on the street that I like and I go home and try to figure out how to make it myself. Nothing I see is too hard for me to try. I have become fearless in my knitting, now, if only I could become fearless in everything! Thank you Stephanie!
KATHY PARCELL said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:22 am
I have been most influenced in my knitting by my LYS and the knitting friends I have made there. Also, by the gracious comments and excitement displayed when I give knitted gifts to family and friends.
Trisha in GA said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:23 am
I guess in a way it would be my non knitting Mom, she instilled in me very young that I could do anything I tried to if I worked hard enough. So I am not afraid to tr new things. I taught myself to knit and am now being encouraged and inspired to try some different things by two different groups on Raverly; Stitch It! and the Knitmore Girls. Two really fun groups of generous enablers.
Shari Gater said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:24 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has been the itty bitties in my life. With the latest generation, the great nieces and nephews, I have been inspired to create both beautiful and functional creations. Every time I go to any event with family, I am introduced as the one who knits and invariably I get wish lists from new found friends.
Since I discovered Ravelry, I have been awed and inspired by so many who create such beautiful work. I have discovered crocheting so different than when I first tried it so many years ago. It is amazing to be able to see what yarns and colors others have chosen when selecting a new project. But alas my project section has unbelievably grown to over 600 projects (most of which have not even been started yet), both the garage and a spare bedroom full of stash!!!!!
You know your knitting has become an obsession when you pick up and knit a few stitches at a red light (hoping it will stay red just a bit longer) and at the grocery when you look for the longest line so you can sneak in just a bit more.
But the joy on faces when family and friends receive one of my “homemade” gifts (no longer an oh no event!!!) inspires me to keep those needles clicking.
Janet said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:24 am
I’ve had several influences in my knitting journey. My mother taught me to knit and crochet. Along the way I’ve had a wonderful knitting teacher-Maryanne-a master knitter-who has been a wonderful inspiration and a wealth of knowledge. My knitting has also been influenced by the wonderful Ravelry groups
Libba said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:24 am
I learned to knit while in college, but after grad school, the needles were put aside while I joined the world of the gainfully employed, got settled in a new place, and met and married hubby. Then, as I was expecting our first child, a friend began knitting for our baby, and my needles were resurrected! As a navy family, we moved often, so my knitting remained a solitary thing. As a civilian family now, settled in one place, I have enjoyed the pleasure and inspiration of knitting relationships through classes at LYSs, “knit nights”, and knitting retreats. The encouragement and help from 2 LYS owners and their staff have nudged me to try and accomplish things that still amaze me!
Larissa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:24 am
Nancy Bush – every time I knit one of her patterns I learn at least one new thing, usually more.
AsKatKnits said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:26 am
Wow, great question…I would have to say Elizabeth Zimmermann, Judy Becker, Cat Bordhi and Stephanie Pearl McPhee had the most influence on my knitting.
These ladies all encouraged me to knit whatever I wanted. They taught me that I can do anything!
And, I can!!
Syd T. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:28 am
Hands down, Elizabeth Zimmerman! She freed me from following patterns line by line and do “thinking knitting” , taking what I like and adding my own touches. She helped me to turn a huge corner. I remember calling her shop to order something (this was before internet) and she would even answer questions over the phone! Back then it was a rare thing to make a long distance call like that, but I treasure my memories of actually speaking to the amazing woman!
ELAINE said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:30 am
My mom was very sick about 3 years ago, and she was a beautiful knitter, could knit anything, so before she passed away I decided I needed to learn to kni for her, granted when she died I was only making disclothes, but I have come along way.
My daughter is a awesome knitter also, she started right after I did. I also have a
few good friend knitters, Sue, Edith and Deb, she runs the ewe and me fiber studio
in sandwich, Il., so I have lots of backup. I am almost finished with my first pair of socks, needed lots of help , but so far so good.
lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:32 am
i’m continually influenced by everyone in my life – especially those who are my internet knitting buddies!!!
Kim said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:33 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has been my friend Laura. She got me re-interested in knitting and then we took a sock class together. The rest of the class called us the over achievers! We enjoyed the sock knitting so much that we both finished our first sock before the next class. The rest is history!
Batty said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:33 am
My grandmother got me started knitting when I was little, but I think that all the wonderful knitters I have met at events, through online forums, and at yarn stores play a major part in why I keep going. Sure, knitting is fun even if nobody is watching. But when there are people who give you a pat on the back when you finally figure out something hard, or who are willing to help when you hit a major obstacle, it’s easier to work through things.
Karen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:34 am
My grandmother taught me to knit, crochet and quilt. I never really liked the quilting but I did crochet and knit. I quit knitting for years when my kids were small — long, pointy objects and active toddlers didn’t work well for me! I had been playing with some knitting and looking for a project when I learned that my daughter was expecting their first baby. I picked my needles back up and discovered and that the world of yarn and patterns had grown wonderfully while I wasn’t knitting. Debbie Bliss was my first discovery and I loved her baby patterns. I’ve since moved on to other things — socks and scarves and sweaters — but baby knitting is my favorite. I’ve been back to knitting a little over a year and I can’t imagine not knitting!
Rachel said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:35 am
Elizabeth Zimmerman is my biggest inspiration and influence. She helps me explore my knitting in a whole new way!
Carol said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:36 am
My knit group in Princeton, IL, followed by Ravelry! The girls (I’m the youngest at 49!) are a constant inspiration & great cheerleaders whenever I want to try something new. Ravelry would be 2nd, with the lace & sock knitting groups showing me new & wonderful things to try, things that I would never have seen without the internet.
Roseanne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:38 am
Although I learned to knit long before I ever heard of Elizabeth Zimmerman, it is Elizabeth who continues to inspire and encourage me. I think of Elizabeth whenever I wonder if I am up for a new knitting challenge or find myself knitting the same simple patterns over and over. I think of Elizabeth whenever I wonder if I should change a pattern that does not seem quite right for me. And then I do it.
Terri Kelly said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:38 am
My cousin, Janice, who taught me how to knit at 8 yrs. old. Then it would have to be Sandy, my knitting friend, who taught me how to knit socks on 2 circulars…I’m working on my 51st pair (over the past two yrs. I knitted 50 prs.). And my boss at work, Karen, helped me with my first Aran knit pullover. Those are my 3 passions in knitting. Knitting, Socks and Aran Knits. Also I have to say God gave me this gift because it came so easy to me. I am “Paying it Forward” by teaching knitting. Knitting is such a wonderful gift a person can give to themselves and I think it is important to teach others this skill. It is the best form of meditation and relaxation anyone can have.
Happy 3rd Anniversary!
Angela said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:40 am
That Namaste Hermosa bag is wonderful!
My biggest knitting influence has been actually the men in my life. My husband asks for the perfect knit hats that are big enough for his head and long enough to pull over his ears. My father asks for knit socks that are tight at the top and fitted throughout the rest (he also likes big and floppy boot socks). My father-in-law asks for warm sweaters and hats and is very specific with requesting how it’s made, with what yarn and the final dimensions.
Probably a little unusual but I have found it’s so much more enjoyable to knit for people who ask for items that they will appreciate. They are my biggest influence and my best enablers!
Lindsey Breeden said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:41 am
My mom has had the biggest influence on my knitting, by far. She taught me to knit when I was a kid, and I didn’t do much of it until I had my kids, and now I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t knit!
beth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:42 am
Definitely my biggest knitting influence lately has been my knitting group and Ravelry group the South End Knitters! So encouraging and full of GREAT ideas! Previously- Kaffe Fasset- oh heavens!
Happy Anniversary!
just lori said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:42 am
Who has had the most influence on my knitting? Ravelry and ALL the knitters there. Because there are people there who say that socks are not hard–just direction-filled. That lace is simply knits and purls with variations, oh, and don’t forget a lifeline. There are people who like color, who don’t, who knit only dishcloths, who knit the most intricate cabled/bobbled/intarsia thing they can find.
Just knowing that knitting is what you make of it, is whatever you want it to be, helped me to realize that the only boundaries on my knitting were self-imposed. It’s been breathtaking to learn what I can do when I ignore those boundaries, too.
I know you’ll miss your gal once she is back college–they grow so fast. Today my Boy starts pre-school, and I’m all aflutter about that. It doesn’t get easier, does it?
MountainWeaver said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:43 am
The 2 biggest influences in my knitting was first Elizabeth Zimmerman and then my friend Debbie, who I met after I had started knitting. Now she keeps me going.
Happy Anniversary
Cyndy Harkins said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:46 am
I am guessing my mother taught me to knit, but I don’t really remember. She has always been very crafty, but didn’t do much knitting that I know of. I picked it up again in college and learned my current “style” from a gal from England who was on my dorm floor. She made beautiful sweaters with perfect stitches. Over the years I made a few afghans and then about 4 years ago was in Oklahoma City visiting a friend and decided to visit a yarn shop there. Found a pattern that was cute and yarn for a baby sweater, which was my first “hard” project. I made two more from the same pattern and while searching for the yarn, discovered online yarn shopping. I picked up The Friday Night Knitting Club at B & N last year and it sparked my interest in knitting again; somehow found the Yarn Harlot’s books, then Wendy’s blog and The Loopy Ewe . . . I am now working on a stash and trying to get more excited about knitting socks. I just started the Girasole last week and it is quite fun to knit. I’m doing the smaller one out of Dream in Color Smooshy, but thinking about making a big one also. So, my greatest influence has been recent and it’s everyone who knits, but especially Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (I love her books and humor). I love getting packages from Loopy – you never know what will arrive along with your order.
Nancy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:52 am
I was at a point in life in which something was going to break and that something was me! I took a knitting class at the local supply store. There I met ladies to share and bond. They were so supportive of my LIFE and my knitting. Now I can’t seem to get enough of the touch and beauty of yarns that represent LIFE and the WORLD. I’m so thankful for each step in the path knitting has led me down and for each animal, plant and person that I have encountered on this journey!
Holly said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:52 am
My son. I taught myself to knit to mentally escape his screaming (he screams more than your avg baby. My mom couldn’t watch him for more than an hour when he was a newborn). I love knitting things for DS and his big sister.
Gail said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:52 am
My grandmother has and always will be the biggest influence on my knitting. She taught me to knit and crochet many years ago. If I hadnt had that early exposure, I doubt that I would be knitting today.
Dorothy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:55 am
I think it’s a toss up between my kids, and my knitting group. I learned to knit because I wanted to make things for my daughter and I kept on going because the people who hang out at the yarn store are supportive and fun to be around. Now that I have a little boy I have even more child inspiration. My husband is also supportive and is even hoping that I will knit him a beautiful Norwegian sweater. My Mother is a crocheter who does beautiful lace work and knits a little. My Father’s Mother is an amazing knitter too and I hope to one day be knitting for each of my grandbabies like my Grandmother.
Kristen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:55 am
The biggest influence on my knitting (so far!) has been my boyfriend’s mom, Clara, who taught me how to knit again a few months ago.
Katherine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:56 am
Without a doubt, my mom! She taught me to knit when I was young after learning herself, and always helped me when I went through knitting phases growing up, helping me pick out yarn and fixing mistakes, and never complaining when, after a few weeks or months, I never stuck with it. A few years ago, I started really knitting, and I’m so glad it’s something we share. We do mini KALs togheter, and knitting is something that helps us stay close even while I’m away at school.
Vikki said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:57 am
Mostly friends that I have made knitting. Anytime they try something new, I’m in.
And Ravelry…
Tami said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:57 am
Stephanie Japel – I love her designs and her blog and she is always coming up with new and creative designs. I look forward to her books and reading about her everyday life!
tamara h. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:57 am
Living in Texas, I knit mostly small projects, socks, mittens ect. and there are no knitters in my family. My interest and inspiration continue to be from all the talented artists that dye the yarn and those that come up with the cool new sock patterns and have pictures of their work online. I will get in a lull and read the Yarn Harlot, with her talent and great sense of humor and be sparked on again to knit yet another pair of socks! Thanks to all who take the time to blog and post “in progress” pics, I greatly appreciate the inspiration!
Andrea said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:58 am
It’s hard to say for sure who has had the greatest impact on my knitting. Certainly my mother has, for teaching me to do it and always encouraging my progress. My friend Kristina did, when she found herself pregnant at seventeen, and I knew I had to make her something beautiful. And of course, my husband (who has also been known as Boyfriend and Fiance in his time) is the only significant other I ever knitted for, because I love him and want to keep him warm. Not only people, but life circumstances, have influenced my knitting and the materials I use – I grew up quite poor, and purchasing natural fibres or specialty yarns was definitely not in the budget. Mom taught me using scraps of acrylic from sweaters she bought at the Salvation Army for $1 and then unravelled to make new things. As a starving university student, I wasn’t always able to afford nice wool, but sometimes I would splurge on a skein of something luscious just to perk me up. When I found Ravelry in 2007 (another huge impact, I think!) I slowly and surely began to replace the acrylic with yarns I had tried from recommendations, and others that I found in person and loved: Lorna’s Laces, Noro, Briggs & Little, Cascade…the list goes on!
Today, I knit to keep myself content. I also do it to make people happy. I’d say 80% of the yarn I have goes into stuff for other people. I like knowing that my love for them has inspired me to branch out, try new things, and ultimately create gorgeous gifts for them to cherish.
Jody O said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:59 am
Hmm…I would have to say that it’s the support and inspiration from the excellent people at my LYS that really inspire me. Ravelry has also been a huge source of inspiration.
Have a great trip back to Taylor, and make sure you stop at Ivanhoe’s! Mint chocolate chip cookie…mmm. Peanut butter banana rice krispie…yum. I miss college! Or at least the milkshakes!
Margaret Welch said,
August 25, 2009 @ 7:59 am
There are myriads of influences on my knitting from friends, YSL folks, books, mags, online, nature, my family, favorite artwork, inspiring photos and other things that intrigue me in the world. From all these sources, i learn techniques, design considerations and personal preferences (if knitting for others) and from all this input, individual projects are conceived, designed (if not using existing pattern as written), and made. The biggest influence is the world around me.
Kjirsten said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:01 am
The biggest influences on my knitting have been my coworkers (and friends) at Lakeside Fibers in Madison, WI. They are fabulously talented and inspiring!
Vicky said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:01 am
There are a variety of influences on my knitting, Ravelery, my friends Abigail and megknitsalot and my Knit Sisters of Vero Beach. I just started knitting in June of last year and feel like I have been knitting for years, thanks to all of them!!
Carolyn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:01 am
I learned to knot when I was about 10, from a friend who learned in 4H. She had to stay in for recess at school because she had been sick and her mom didn’t want her out in the cold. I stayed inside with her so she didn’t have to sit in the classroom by herself for 45 minutes. Paula taught me to knit with 2 pencils and some string. When I got home that day I convinced my mother that I could knit. We went to the local 5 and dime store later that evening and she bought me the green Learn to Knit booklet ( I think it was published by Coats & Clark) and a skein of bright multi-colored Red Heart yarn. The first item I made was the tam from that book. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is, my 4th grade friend Paula (we’re still friends, in fact, our 30th high school reunion is this weekend) is my first knitting inspiration/mentor! So know when my husband asks if I really need more yarn, I tell him it’s Paula’s fault!
Kelli said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:01 am
My biggest influence was my mother as she first taught me how to knit over 35 years ago. I stopped for a while and started again a number of years ago from there influences have been through everyone at Ravelry and all the great podcasts – can’t list without a pad and pencil near by for all the great information.
Christine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:02 am
The biggest knitting influences in my life are my local Prayer Shawl Group and my local yarn shop, Threadbear in Lansing, MI. They both keep me striving for more yarn and more designs.
JulieM said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:03 am
Wow, this question required some thought — Ravelry, my Monday night knitting group, and a variety of knitting podcasts have all been both influence and inspiration for me. Your shop; however, with its wonderful variety of yarns and colorways, is so very tempting. I have to look for new things to try so that I can use the gorgeous yarns. You all are such enablers. (And I do appreciate it!)
Jessica said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:04 am
I have been a solitary knitter, finding my way through libraries and blogs, and Ravelry, of course! Perhaps the greatest influence was my friend Carol, who is not a knitter, but who has a love of lace, and is a wonderful home decorater — mostly her own home!
So when I realized how much I adored lace, I learned to do it, too. And now that’s all I really want to knit, but I do make other things for friends and family.
Mary Anne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:04 am
I’ve been knitting for almost 50 years (gulp!) so there’s been lots of time for lots of influences. I am forever grateful to m godmother Dodie who taught me to knit as a child, but I then learned (or didn’t!) a lot of the details of knitting on my own. It has only been in the past few years, thanks to wonderful podcasters and now Ravelry that my knitting has really become so much better. So, I’d say that these new tech-delivered members of the knitting community have been my greatest influences.
Pamela said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:04 am
I am a country girl at heart. My mom took every opportunity to see that I was involved in every 4-H opportunity available. I am positive the reason for that is she could mend a mean sock on a light bulb but she always knew there should be a better way! And how convenient that my leader lived just right next door! she even raised her own sheep for her wool projects! My 4-H cooking leader didn’t live to far just a few short miles down the dusty roads. Oh I began sewing too at age 8. And of course in 4-H everything went to the 4-H fair. Clothing was not only sewn but you had to model it too! So we all learned to walk gracefully and we were taught to pivot on a dime! I can remember driving in through the gate at the fair grounds just binding off a project to enter hoping for that blue ribbon! I spent a lot of time with my grandmother. She loved to crochet and you guessed it I can remember to this day sitting in her living room with a crochet hook in one hand and my yarn in the other and listening to my grandma say “ok Pammie now insert your needle into this whole here and by wrapping your yarn around the needle you can create double and triple crochets. And at 98 this October, she is still crocheting today making sure all her grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and her great-great grandchildren have afghans. Oh so back to the question who has the biggest influence in my gift of knitting I would have to say the environment my mom created for me. Thanks mom!
Cindy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:04 am
My mother was my greatest influence when I was younger. Not only did she teach me to knit, but she also taught me “no fear” and to use quality yarns. She was always a proponent of not wasting your precious time knitting something you wouldn’t be happy with because you chose a yarn based on price point only, instead of a combination of both or quality. She also never suggested that anything was above me. When I picked a pattern that used a circular or double pointed needles, she simply told me how without the slightest hint that it might be hard or difficult to do. As a beginner knitter I did projects that would probably have been beyond my abilities had I known any better. LOL
Mairi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:07 am
My mum, though perhaps only as a conduit for my grandmother’s legendary knitting skills. Mum’s mum died before I was born, but any time the subject of knitting came up, she was there and part of it.
Mary Davis Gregory said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:07 am
I have had several different influences. Elizabeth Zimmerman, Yarn Harlot and the ladies in my LYS (too many to name). Sometimes it has just been other knitters and I never knew their names-we were just chatting.
Laura said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:09 am
It seems a bit of a cop-out, but I have to say the online knitting community, from WendyKnits to the Yarn Harlot, from Ravelry to KnittingHelp. This world of knitting possibilities has been the greatest influence on me.
Cathy-Cate said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:09 am
Have a safe trip!
My greatest influence has probably been two people jointly: my mother and Elizabeth Zimmermann! And my mother introduced me to EZ, so they’re connected. When I was in college and starting to knit seriously, my mother saw EZ’s TV show on Wisconsin Public Television, apparently. Not only did my mother problem solve from a distance and at holidays with my early knitting projects, and offer helpful advice and support, but she also gave me the confidence to tackle my second project after the seed stitch vest which was my first garment: a Lopi color work sweater! Before that, though, she gave me “Knitting Without Tears” by EZ and suggested I learn to knit continental if I was going to do a colorwork project, to make it easier to carry one color in each hand. I taught myself from the book while also absorbing EZ’s (and my mother’s) ‘can do’ approach, the sweater turned out well, and two sweaters later I was designing (and knitting everything continental on circs…).
The rest was history.
Emily said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:10 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has been my weekly knitting group. I had been knitting over a year when I started attending and almost all I had attempted at that point had been scarves, hats and dishcloths. After seeing everyone else’s projects, I’ve branched out into sweaters, socks, bags, lace, a lot of stranding and many more things.
LittleWit said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:10 am
The biggest influence on my knitting was probably Mrs Borelli who taught me how to knit.
Janelle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:11 am
This is tough to answer. The biggest influence may be the nice lady in Earth Guild who directed me to a pattern written by a local employee. The pattern is for a basic crew sock and it is formula-based. The formula concept helped me get socks that fit right every time. I almost never follow the CO number given in full patterns – I figure out the right CO number for the yarn and the foot, and adjust the pattern as needed. This has freed me from the worst part of some patterns but allowed me to take the best part and create a sock that really works.
Heather said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:11 am
I’d have say to Ravelry has been most influential. After teaching myself to knit via the internet, Ravelry gave me the inspiration and encouragement to keep growing and trying new things. I’d also have to say my husband has been an amazing source of encouragement. He has actually taken the time to learn a bit about it himself and will offer ideas and suggestions whenever I get stuck. I’m quite a lucky gal!
Julie S. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:12 am
I think my biggest knitting influence is Ravelry in general. From the patterns to the yarn enablers to all of the various groups they all influence me in different ways. I don’t know what I’d do without Ravelry!
Roseanne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:13 am
I am a self taught knitter, so I will go with Elizabeth Zimmerman, the fearless one!
kati said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:13 am
The biggest influence originally – was probably the local yarn shop. The owner is a lot of fun and I enjoyed taking classes. Once my skills developed – I fell in love with socks, ravelry and blogs and my queue just grows endlessly from there…. :O)
Victoria said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:14 am
Strangely enough, the person who technically has had the most influence on my knitting (in the sense that without her, I wouldn’t *be* knitting) was my third grade teacher who no one liked (including myself). This is the teacher whose chalk we habitually flushed down the toilet. She decided one day that we were all going to learn how to knit. Mom really taught me the basics, but I probably wouldn’t have thought to ask her to teach me if it hadn’t been a class project.
So if I could spell her last name, I would thank my strange, crotchity third grade teacher! Knitting was probably the best thing that came out of her class.
penny said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:16 am
Taking the time to look around has had the biggest influence on my knitting. By looking at machine knit/mass produced garments I’ve purchased, items others have created (both in person and via Rav), reading lots (and lots and lots) and always being open to trying something new and trying it again, I think my knitting has improved. Most of my colour/design influences are nature inspired but Life is probably the answer you are looking for.
(or coffee. what on earth would we do without coffee and tea?)
Carole said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:16 am
My biggest influence was the knitting group I started in our town. I had to keep learning new techniques so that I could teach them to the group. We were all novice knitters and I was forced to expand my horizons in order to keep them interested.
Mary T. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:18 am
My mom, she’s the one who taught me how to knit.
HeatherD said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:18 am
I think Sandy and Kathy at my LYS are the two people that have most influenced my knitting. They are very encouraging and offer classes that have improved my skills so that I feel up to the challenge of taking on any project that I can find.
The internet has also had a huge influence on my knitting. When I discovered podcasts and blogs, a whole new knitting world opened up. Every time I hear about a new yarn, fiber or desinger on a podcast or read about them in a blog, I have to go and check them out. I don’t think I would have ever tried spinning if I hadn’t heard several podcasters talking about their adventures in creating yarn.
Sym said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:18 am
My biggest influence was my mother. She taught me how to knit three times before I finally caught on. I’m very thankful for her patience!
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:18 am
I’ve always been kind of a loner in my hobbies & crafts. I learned to knit from books. I’d have to say Maggie Righetti’s book, “Knitting in Plain English” gave me the confidence to try new patterns and figure out things for myself.
Sue Sticksel said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:18 am
My biggest influence has been the internet and all the fabulous knitters that have posted free sock patterns . I didn’t start knitting until my mid 50’s – none of my family knitted although they were talented artists in other areas. I took lessons to learn the basic techniques but in the early days I shied away from sock knitting books because all the instructions and charts looked like greek to me. I improved my skills by joining various knitalongs and by stopping in my favorite LYS when I ran across directions I didn’t understand. Now I can knit socks with the best of them and have even started to add my own variations to patterns. I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have without the internet and sock knitters across the globe.
Laura said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:19 am
My biggest influence has been ravelry: a community that I don’t have in close proximity that challenges me and encourages me in ways I didn’t know was possible.
For a person, I’d probably say a girl who lived next to me in Freshman year at McGill. Natalie bought a sweater kit down at the Bay, and knit herself a sweater. I’d never followed a pattern before, but I thought, “I can do that!”
And I did. The rest is history.
Oh, and Sandra from Austria three years later taught me to knit continental. Invaluable.
Steph said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:19 am
I try to push myself with new techniques and designs. Many of the great knitters on Ravelry are a big influence.
Marla said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:19 am
I have learned the most about knitting from the Internet, specifically bloggers such as the Yarn Harlot. I got hooked during the first winter knitting Olympics and learned a lot from reading her previous posts. From there, I’ve picked up other bloggers who have been knitting for a long time. You can learn a lot from following the links in a post. This comment from an obsessive knitter who knits whenever possible
.
Karen D. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:25 am
I started knitting just to feel productive while I was recovering from a major illness. IWhat I knit is influenced by the blogs that I read as well as what I see on Ravelry. Currently I’m into making socks. Can’t wait for the fiesta yarn that I ordered.
Chan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:27 am
Ravelry. Hands down. I am a serious Rav-stalker. I love that “friends activity” feature, where I can see what everyone else is doing!
Lynne D said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:27 am
I would have to say that Ravelry as a whole is the biggest current influence in my knitting. I can see the various KALs, and join in if I want; I can see the latest and most popular patterns, or delve through the pattern listings to find hidden gems. I can research yarns and see what people like and don’t like. I can learn a new skill, or get advice on bettering my technique. It’s like the biggest and best LYS, knitting group, and S&B all rolled into one!
Jennifer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:29 am
I think my biggest influence is probably the internet, and more specifically ravelry. I can find patterns, opinions, techniques, etc all in one place. Sometimes I get overwhelmed but I definitely have been influenced a LOT.
Melissa N said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:30 am
Wow. What started me knitting was my grandmother who loved to create with her hands – she didn’t knit, only crocheted, which I learned partially from her, partially in a continuning ed class. After finding limitations in how a crocheted garment looked, I learned to knit. My current biggest influence are the other knitters on Ravelry. Looking at other folks work is inspiring to me. Next to that my inspiration to create comes from the pattern designers and all of the wonderful yarns out there to work with. Lastly, seeing a FO that I have made for someone enjoy it and use it spurs the whole cycle over and over again. Thanks for all the great inspiration.
Kathleen Dailey said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:30 am
My mom was my biggest influence with knitting. She always had several projects going at a time, and I’m keeping up the tradition
Ravelry is a big enabler for me too.
Michelle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:30 am
I am a self-taught knitter. I do not know anyone personally who knits. I would have to say Ravelry is my main influence. I love to see all the new patterns and yarns, and hottest projects and what people are knitting. Any help I need, I know I can find the answer on Ravelry.
carol said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:31 am
My Mum and Grandmother when she was alive. If it wasn’t for them I would not be the knitter I am today.
Mariah said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:31 am
I’ve always wanted to knit, and my great grandmother knit. Unfortunately she died before I was born. I guess I channel her. For “live” inspiration I credit the Yarn Harlot — who convinced me that I can take on any project. Everything I knit I challenge myself to use a new technique or stitch pattern.
Meredith said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:32 am
When I got back into knitting about 8 or 9 years ago, my aunt sent me a newspaper article that talked about blogs and knitting and the featured blog was Bonne Marie Burns’, Chicknits. I’ve been a fan and have followed her ever since. Previous to that, I was mostly self-taught by trial and error and through books. That one blog opened up a whole new world for me-knitting on the internet. Virtually any question could be answered and technique demonstrated. And a huge community of other knitters was at my finger tips.
Shannon said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:35 am
I think my knitting group has the biggest influence on what I knit. They inspire me all the time with how they challenge themselves, and we embark on the occasional knit-along. I got into socks because of them, and always want to make sure my work is up to par! lol
Rani said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:38 am
My Icelandic relatives. When they settled in North Dakota, they raised sheep and traded their knitted items for food and supplies! I often wondered what they did all winter long in those quiet cold houses . . . knit and knit and knit. I wish I had some knitting relic from them. What I do have is the same passion for knitting, but I can knit for fun, not for survival. And this yarn ‘aint my grandma’s yarn’.
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:40 am
Without a doubt, Ravelry has been my biggest influence. I can look up patterns and see what they might look like in the yarn I have, since I have a habit of buying with no project in mind. As for individual people, I would have to say Jenny and Nicole from Stash and Burn. I love hearing about what they are knitting and what they think about certain patterns.
Suzie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:41 am
My Grandma taught me to knit when I was in fourth grade. I kept at it a couple years but then stopped because I only did garter stitch and only made triangular shaped elf boots. When I was 40 I saw a book in our school book fair about knitting and teaching yourself to knit. There were cute things to make and other stitches than straight knit. I took to it like a duck to water. Then I found the Yarn Girls books(Guide to Simple Knits and Knits for Kids and Guide to more Complex Knits). I loved the idea that I could make a sweater in a weekend. Then one of my teacher friends gave me a basic sock pattern and that was all she wrote. I’ve been hooked on socks ever since. I love the portability and the lack of finishing needed on socks. Now if I just had more time!
Kristie Hammond said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:42 am
Without a doubt it would be Elizabeth Zimmermann. I have her books and DVDs and am constantly reading/watching them over again. Her love of knitting comes through in all her work!
Paula said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:45 am
Ravelry and internet forums are big influences currently. I started knitting socks after reading a novel that took place in a yarn shop. They were knitting socks on two circular needles. The concept intrigued me and pushed me to learn more. I was ready for a challenge. I didn’t realize how addictive it would be:-)
I learned to knit when I was 10. My cousin’s wife taught me to knit and purl while I was visiting them. When I got home I wanted to knit more. My mother knew how to knit, but hadn’t in years. We started knitting and learning together. Lucille, who owned a yarn shop in Columbia, MO, was that one who taught me to read patterns.
Geraldine Scott said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:45 am
My Oma would come visit from the Netherlands when I was a little girl, and I would sit and watch her knit for what seemed like hours. Eventually she taught me how to knit despite the language barrier. I hadn’t knitted in years, but, now, as I’m getting back into it, I think of her often!
Erynn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:45 am
I had to think about this one and I still haven’t come up with a good answer. I’m currently the only one in my family that knits, but my grandma used to knit dishcloths. She was the one who originally taught me. The only knitters I “hang out” with are on Ravelry.
So, maybe what inspires me the most is just making something with my own hands. Trying out new patterns and techniques, attempting different items just to see if I can do it. And also making things for other people, and seeing their reactions to it.
Sharon said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:49 am
I don’t have one person, I have crafted my whole life, but I rediscovered knitting and through the web found blogs, Yarn Harlot, Loopy Ewe, The Rainey Sisters and more. Then through books, Elizabeth Zimmerman I’ve jumped head over heels into knitting and now spinning. It just doesn’t get better than this.
Victoria said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:51 am
My two biggest influences are the Yarn Harlot and The Plucky Knitter. Steph made me want to be an adventurous knitter, and Sarah’s yarn makes my stash and projects really beautiful.
Connie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:54 am
My mother and Jacqueline Fee. Mom taught me to knit as she was learning when I was around 10 and J. Fee’s book The Knitting Workshop freed me from patterns and showed me I had control over what I did. It’s been a joy ever since! Mom’s influence obviously started this game for me many decades ago!
Carol said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:55 am
My mom was the reason for me starting to knit and crochet. In fact she was responsible for my interest in many different crafts. She taught me to knit and crochet one summer when I was bored and looking for something to do. Its been a fun adventure in crafting ever since. So much so that I have passed this crafting addiction down to my daughter.
Susan-a-Buffalo-Gal said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:55 am
I wish I had a homey story to tell but I don’t. When I was a child I had Norwegian sweaters in every size until I became too “cool” to wear them any more (what was I thinking). Then when I was college and a wanna be hippie, I learned how to knit a fair isle sweater from a friend. I tried knitting on and off for many years but was always slow and frustrated by the process. When I was 46 and my youngest daughter was entering 1st grade I needed a green sweater fot her to match her school uniform (she couldn’t wear the acrylic official sweater because it itched). I set about making her a sweater and her best friend one to match, then I did a bunch of scarfs and more sweaters and fell in love with knitting. Then I took a sock class and fell in love with sock knitting! Everything about knitting I love – the smell, feel and colors of the yarn, the rhythm, the quiet click, the meditative aspect, the entire process. That’s it – a friend, self taught and some classes. I’m a knitter!
Becky said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:55 am
Hmmm. The biggest influence on my knitting is probably my family. I began knitting so I could make a sweater for my oldest niece when she was a baby (she’s now almost 5 years old).
Patti said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:56 am
My biggest influence was an ongoing class I took from Rosie Barnes. She knew everything about knitting, fit, style and color.
Gen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:56 am
I’d have to say my Nana. Im sure she instilled in me my love of wool as well as teaching me the basics of knitting when I was young.
rarabecca said,
August 25, 2009 @ 8:57 am
I don’t think any one person influences me, I really like to create things from scratch and so I would I have to answer myself. I am swayed by color and texture. I don’t have of the same patterns that my friends have and vice versa. I think the only 2 patterns I did because of a friend was the noro striped scarf, and the Leyburn socks. I have to talk myself into patterns and won’t knit one just because it is the cool thing to do.
Ann said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:02 am
Elizabeth Zimmermann – Reading her books and newsletters changed my whole knitting life and outlook.
Andrea said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:02 am
I just love my on-line knitting groups. Their beautiful prjects are all I need to order, buy, download a new pattern. Thank you Groupies!
Jen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:02 am
My biggest influence on my knitting right now is probably Ravelry- mostly because it’s inspiring to see so many different projects. But my biggest influence, who got me started and encourages me nearly every day, is absolutely my mother in law. Knitting is something we bonded over and it’s been fun to challenge each other and try new things together.
kenya Amann said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:05 am
I would have to say that my Mother is my inspiration for my life. She had knitted the most beautiful cardigan and skirt, I loved to pretend I knew how to knit. Years after her death I finally picked up a set of her kneedles and knitted a scarf. I completed the scarf about a month ago and am now knitting another scarf. I am so wanting to knit some socks for my family and friends…my next project….
Kristen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:07 am
Hmmm…well no one in my family knits so I would say A Good Yarn in Baltimore has had the greatest influence for me. That’s where I learned to knit, and I have spent many a Saturday afternoon chatting with the ladies and trying to finish my sweater
Melissa B. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:09 am
My dear mamaw was my inspiration! My then boyfriend, now hubby had just gone off to college. And as your daughter can tell you it gets down right cold here in Indiana in the winter, and I wanted to make him a scarf. I asked her my mamaw if she would teach me to crochet, which is what she loved to do. Well that was a joke and a half. It didn’t matter what I did, I could not get crocheting down. So she taught me to knit instead. And that went much better. When my babies were born, mamaw knit them all a blanket. Then when she was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer, I took over her projects she wasn’t able to finish. I have been given her crochet hooks and knitting needles and they extrememly precious to me. Including the ivory crochet hook that was her mothers. Its the best thing for picking up dropped stitches!
karen (morsecode on ravelry) said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:09 am
I’m still in a wonderful mood from the TLE package I got yesterday (WM + loopy groupie goodies).
As for influences… well, my friend Janelle is the one who taught me to knit, but my sock-yarn-buying problem is what forced me to learn to make socks, which is a lot of what I’ve been knitting lately.
Christine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:10 am
Ravelry.com has been my most influential “person.” I love that place, what with all the nice people and great ideas. Don’t think I’d be as excited about knitting without it.
K. Conover said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:11 am
Ravelry has been the biggest influence on my knitting. I first learned to knit 25 years ago. It was a disaster. Then 18 years ago, when I graduated college, I picked up the needles with a fervor and committed myself to learn to knit…which I did but had one horrible teacher who kept poo-pooing every pattern I wanted to try. A good friend taught me cables and seaming, but when I moved away, my needles got put mostly away for awhile. Then two years ago, my good friend Carolyn convinced me to pick them up again and got me on to Ravelry. The boom of the internet has made all of the difference in the world!! I can peruse what others are doing, see new techniques, watch tutorials (which are linked on Ravelry) and check out what patterns are being used with the yarns I have. Plus Ravelry has directed me to great retailers like The Loopy Ewe! I love Ravelry. ~k
Sharon T said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:12 am
I’m influenced by projects I see on Ravelry and knitting magazines. Of course, my knitting groups are good at enabling as well.
JennySue said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:13 am
Definitely Ravelry. That site really got me going again and trying patterns and yarns I’d never tried before.
traceyincincy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:16 am
well….this past summer Sherri at TLE is my biggest influence !
because I have spent much of this season with the Girasole and for all my struggles , it really is beautiful ….and I cant belive Im knitting lace !
but I must also thank my friend Constance , Miss Wendy-sock goddess.and everyone who makes Ravelry a fantastic source of information….and entertainment !
liz said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:17 am
A friend of my mother’s worked at a knitting shop (sadly long closed) and I signed up to take knitting from her. WIlma didn’t waste any time – our first project was a sampler scarf that included basketweave, cables, and a variety of other patterns. From that, I launched into sweaters. It’s been an on and off addiction for the last 20 years, and now I’m teaching both my 7-year-old daughter and 70 year-old mother to knit!
Gretchen (brownbear on ravelry) said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:17 am
I think it’s a combo of myself and other people online. I like to try new techniques and patterns that challenge me. I get inspired by seeing other people’s projects on ravelry.
Reni said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:18 am
I would have to say that Ravelry and “my friends” on Ravelry have had the biggest influence on my knitting! If it weren’t for Ravelry, I would not have been introduced to The Loopy Ewe or the many, many encouraging knitters in the whole Ravelry community.
Eva said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:19 am
Rowan magazines. Their pictures and patterns are so beautiful that I always want to make them.
Rosann said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:19 am
About 10 years ago our ministers wife gave a children’ sermon about a prayer shawl she had knit. That got me started on knitting again. I love Ravelry and also get inspiration from magazines.
maryeb said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:19 am
I guess I am the biggest influence on my knitting. I taught myself how to knit despite being discouraged to learn by my mom and grandmother. They told me it would be too hard because it “used two needles”. They were both crocheters and so taught me how to crochet as a child.
I like to challenge myself to try new patterns and new techniques, scouring the latest (and sometimes old) books and mags for ideas. And how I do love Ravelry. It’s loaded with inspiration.
I also love that you suggest projects. So I have no lack of inspiration and really my only dilemma is what to try knitting next.
Jeanine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:19 am
My biggest knitting influences have been Kaffe Fassett and Luci Neatby. I love color and they have both inspired my to follow my instincts!
Sheryl H said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:19 am
My biggest knitting influence is the Ravelry Pattern/Yarn search functions. When I joined Ravelry I was a very new knitter and bored with scarves and dishcloths. Ravelry opened up an entire world of patterns and ideas of what I could do with yarn. I love being able to buy whatever yarn strikes my fancy, with the knowlegde that I can go to Ravelry to find many beautiful patterns to choose from, using the same yarn.
Nephele said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:21 am
I taught myself to knit and continued knitting in isolation for several years but then… I found a freindly LYS that practically begged people to have a seat and knit for a while. Since then, I think I’ve been influence by lots of people. I’ve been exposed to new yarns and designers I wouldn’t have noticed previously. I’ve seen different ways of doing things. In helping others figure out their problems I’ve learned new tricks and techniques. So… Who has influenced me the most? Every knitter I meet!
mariannem said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:22 am
Ravelry has also been my biggest influence, especially the awesome knitters and crocheters in the Yarn Snobs group.
Joyce said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:24 am
My mother was probably my biggest influence. She was willing to try any pattern I found…no matter how hard she privately thought it might be. Now my influence is my knitting friends. They are the ones that convinced me to try lace knitting and socks, which I now love!
Marilyn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:27 am
My biggest influence I would have to say is Ravelry! I started knitting again after many years of just crocheting and went to the internet for information. I began reading blogs and was inspired but nothing like the motivation and inspiration I’ve received from just “poking” around Ravelry. There are so many kind and loving people to ask for help and especially when I live in an area that the nearest LYS is 35 miles away. I’ve never ran into a ’snooty’ or ‘clique’ on Ravelry and have always been treated with respect and courtesy. OK, I’m off my soapbox now.
Marilyn in NM
Carroll said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:29 am
Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting?
I think, besides Gretchen, my fabulous friend who taught me to knit 30+ years ago, Ravelry has had the most influence on my knitting recently.
Mary said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:31 am
I am my on self- motivator. The first thing I ever knitted was a Christmas stocking with a Santa Clause Face, if you don’t count a pincushion in seventh grade.
Penny said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:32 am
My biggest influence has been the Internet itself. When I got back into knitting about 7 years ago ago, I started discovering online yarn shops, then blogs, and then Knitty. Seeing all the differnt yarns available and what other people were knitting was very inspiring. I also found podcasts, and through them found even more souces of inspiration. And then along came Ravelry!
Ayana said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:33 am
I had been knitting on and off for a few years but it wasn’t until having to go through a pretty nasty seperation that I realized how much of a comfort it could be. It was probably at the lowest point of my seperation that I happened upon a local knitting group meetup and made an instant connection with some of the best friends a girl could ask for. Meeting them came at a vital time in my life and I feel blessed to now consider them my “family”. Eventhough it’s only been a little over a year since we all met, there isn’t a day that goes by that we dont chat or offer advice, support etc. etc. to each other. So my friends influence me in my knitting, I put love into every piece now… because of them….
Elizabeth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:34 am
My biggest influence on knitting was a friend in Billings, Mt who introduced me to the finer yarns which have made knitting so much more enjoyable. Great yarn leads to a desire to be a better knitter. Thank you Janet.
Paulette said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:38 am
My friend Amy taught me how to knit and has been encouraging and a huge help all along the way! She started me reading knitting blogs, too. I started with the Yarn Harlot, and her blog and “Knitting Rules” really are a great inspiration—I can do this! Wendy Knits blog and her books are great. And I always read Sheri’s blog, too, and Loopy Ewe was where I first ordered yarn from, so they are a big influence, too! I am grateful!
cath said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:39 am
My Monday night knitting gang has influenced me the most. I have seen so many different techniques and talked about different yarns because of them. It is great having fiber show-and-tell after any of us visits a fiber festival. They encouraged me when I made my first cable and they are still there ooing and ahing whenever I make something–they are a great bunch.
Blondi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:41 am
Definitely the biggest influence on me (and not just for knitting) was my Girl Scout leader, Mrs. Mary Rose. She could do *anything* and look good doing it!
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:41 am
Miss Babs has been a huge influence in my knitting. Growing up I working with cheap crappy yarns and didn’t really like the finished product because of the yarns. Then I was introduced to Miss Babs yarns and I fell in love with natural fibers and Alpaca in particular. Ever since then I haven’t been able to get enough and I haven’t stopped knitting, Crocheting or spinning since.
kathy alter said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:42 am
The biggest influence on my knitting is a group of great women who meet up to 3 times a week — and have for the past 5 years or so — to knit, laugh, sharw patterns, and give each other knitting and moral support. They’ve bcome true and appreciated friends. Bless them each and every one.
kimberly kevern said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:43 am
biggest influence on my knitting? that would have to be a great friend who i have met. kamille, opened up a lys in a shopping area. i went in with my daughter, to purchase a candle from her, and we met. it was one of those kind of things wen we met were we knew we had known each other from some other time. i had knit wen i was 14 and had moved onto different creative outlets since then. she encouraged me to start up again,and my daughter to take lessons for the first time. we did and now im hooked. i have 4 or 5 different projects on needles and i am even an employee for her now! cool huh! so kamille has been the greatest influence on my knitting and has opened the door to all of the possibilities that are out there for us knitters. i loveeeeeeeeeee ravelry they rock!
Mary Ellen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:44 am
I’ve loved reading the other knitters’ stories!! Like many, the biggest & first influences were Grandma and Mother–Grandma made the most fantastic filet crochet for priestly vestments and altar clothes in the Catholic church of my youth. She also sewed and saved me the most wonderful fabrics of all colors and textures.
Mother taught me to knit and made many sweaters for me (some I still wear – I’m 61). As she retreated into Alzeheimer I’d help her knit until it became too difficult.
So every time I pick up my knitting I feel connected to Mother and Grandma and ALL the women who’ve knit for their families from centuries ago.
Thanks for the question.
Julie Poole said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:44 am
Lately, Ravelry’s most knitted projects have been influencing me lots, but I never would have learned to knit at all without my finace’. We decided to try to learn at the same time by watching videos on slo-mo. Neither of us had ever knitted before, and we didn’t know anyone in our families who were knitters.
So, we watched and watched and he “got it” wayyyy faster than I did. I did a lot of cussing and stomping around and throwing of things, and it SO pi**ed me off that he was catching on and I was not!! Without this competition, I know for a fact that I would have quit, but the need to catch up with a GUY was driving me nuts! So, I persevered. And I don’t know what I would do with myself now without knitting. He gave it up a couple years ago for other crafty endeavors (making lamps out of books and cat beds out of yard sale suitcases and the like), but I’m still going strong. And hoping to win a snazzy prize ;-D
BritKnits said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:45 am
I live out in the country and also work in an office of one full-time so I am not around any other knitters/crocheters. I rely on my books (I’m a bookaholic) to give me inspiration and ideas. I can see lots of items that I like but wouldn’t either want to make, or make like they have it. I also hate to follow patterns, unless it’s a lace shawl, so I can more or less “make up as I go along” when I do my own thing. It’s lots of fun and I have become disciplined to now finish a project before I go on to the next. I must admit though that I have one project for work and one for home.
Alex said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:48 am
My sister – she taught me how to knit, and then promptly forgot herself!
Debbie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:49 am
My co-worker and friend, Elizabeth, who taught me to knit Continental-style, has had the biggest influence on my knitting. I learned to knit English-style MANY years ago, but never knitted; I only crocheted. It wasn’t until Elizabeth taught me to knit Continental a few years ago that I learned to really enjoy knitting–and now I knit more than I crochet.
Reading Stephanie Pearl-McPhee’s books and many knitting blogs (of Stephanie and others) has stoked the obsession.
I also have to include Sheri–because she challenged us to knit the Girasole–and knitting on that project has given me more confidence in my abilities as a knitter.
Alice said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:50 am
Biggest knitting influence…hmmmmm…would have to be the awesome group of ladies that are in my knitting/crochet group. They rock!
disentangled said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:55 am
Watching my Ravelry friends activity is where I get most of my knitting inspiration. I love seeing what others are working on and what hidden treasures they’ve found trolling through Ravelry.
Nichole said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:56 am
I think the biggest influence on my knitting is really me… I mean, if I don’t like it, its no fun to knit, right? However, my friends and bloggy buds certainly influence all the wonderful new patterns and yarns to try……..
Elizabeth Clarke said,
August 25, 2009 @ 9:56 am
My local yarn shop, Yummi Yarns in Burnsville NC.
Jan Quarles said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:01 am
Probably the biggest influence on my knitting is my spinning/knitting/dyeing teacher and friend, Lynne Vogel. I am learning to be a more fearless knitter and to jump into anything!
Also, my sock knitting teacher and friend leah,who taught me if you can knit socks on 1s, you can knit anything!
vismajor said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:01 am
“Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting?” One person and one “thing”… the Yarn Harlot as the person: reading her lighthearted books gave me more confidence to take charge of my knitting; the Ravelry site as the “thing”: Ravelry exposed me to so many interesting patterns & projects & yarn & people that I found myself immersed in inspiration.
Debbie in Kirkland, WA said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:02 am
I think Ravelry has had the biggest influence on my knitting in the last couple of years. Before that it was all the knitting magazines. I had subscriptions to several. I don’t belong to a knitting group (don’t have time between work, home, and all my exercise classes at the gym), but if I did, that would probably be a big influence! Thanks for the fun contests!
Tammy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:02 am
I have knitted on & off since I was a kid, but became fully obsessed back in 2002 when I taught myself to knit my first sock. I pretty much honed my knitting skills by scouring the web. And then, along came RAVELRY. It has given me inspiration and the daring to try things beyond my current skill levels. Looking at all the projects, patterns, yarns – all the eye candy on Ravelry is what has inspired me the most. Everything Ravelry has to offer – be it groups, individuals, projects, yarns – EVERYTHING. Every day I look through Ravelry and just want to stop what I am doing and knit, knit, knit. I have also been inspired by the knitting podcasts out there. It is just so wonderful to know that there are hundreds of thousands of us out there knitting & looking & listening, being inspired and inspiring others. I love so much being a part of this WORLDWIDE knitting community.
Bea said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:04 am
All the beautiful yarn available for my knitting pleasure. I learned to knit taking lessons in a department store as a child when there wasn’t really much variety available. But the last 10 or more years has seen a growing trend in beautiful, unusual yarns that inspire me. Of course, right now, I’m into knitting socks and the choice of colors and patterns are mind boggling.
Tasha said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:05 am
While my paternal grandmother taught me to knitting, she is no longer my biggest influence. Especially comparing my stash, with hers, as she had a great love for Zellers acrylic yarn. My biggest influence now would have to be the ravelry swap group I belong to – Monthly Adventures. They push me to try new things (lace, beading dyeing, dorset buttons) and we all support each other as we struggle along.
Carol said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:05 am
The biggest influence on my knitting has been knitting podcasts and blogs. I don’t have any close friends or family that knit but these online “friends” have kept me inspired. Why would anyone start knitting socks without the influence of the Yarn Harlot, – not to mention the beautiful yarns!!
Sara said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:06 am
My grandmother was my inspiration for knitting.
Jennifer Wells said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:09 am
Elizabeth Zimmerman! I love her attitude about figuring it out for yourself!
Sue said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:09 am
I read a lot of comments while thinking about this question and I would have to say that although now Ravelry is probably the greatest influence on what I knit — I have gotten so many ideas and so much help from other Ravelers — my father was the biggest influence because it was he who taught me how to knit. He did not knit but at thirteen, I was eager to learn so he bought me a book and taught both of us at the same time. Since he passed away only a year later, it was a tremendous gift to me because I have been knitting like crazy ever since and we are talking decades and decades, and my daughter now has been a knitter for almost twenty years, she started at age 4 !
I love this question….
Gretchen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:09 am
I think the Yarn Harlot had a huge influence on me when I started knitting. Her blog posts about socks got me started on them. Now, Ravelry is of course huge.
Elizabeth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:11 am
I have no idea who influned my hand crafts– but the one person I can remember the most is a German Aunt that first taught me shuttle tatting when I was six years old; and I have been self taught in most fiber arts ever since. Just enjoy new designs that keep me on my toes and brain cell #3 firing off.
The fact that sock knitting is so much more mobile than lace knitting shawls and one can lace patterns into leg sections- makes them the ideal testing ground for just about any lace design.
Please keep up the wonderful site and having supplies in stock and so ready to ship- have enjoyed your speedy processing and shipping; makes one get spoiled rotten!
Elizabeth
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:15 am
My friend Barb inspired and encouraged me to knit (and still does). She is never intimidated by a pattern – she just goes for it and if she makes a mistake, she learns from it. I’m still apprehensive on a lot of patterns, especially with socks and lace, but she reminds me that knitting is supposed to be fun!!
Julie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:15 am
I would have to say that the Yarn Harlot and Wendy’ Knits blogs really inspired me when I first started knitting. Stephanie showed me that its not scary to try something new and seeing Wendy’s socks on her blog really made me think that it can’t be that hard. So I knit some socks and then a sweater, and then some baby things. It wasn’t hard, but it was fun.
Nancy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:15 am
I think my biggest knitting influence is found on the internet at various sites. If I find a pattern that looks interesting I will try it. There are some that don’t work out but I like trying new techniques.
Andrea said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:15 am
My biggest influence is myself. I taught myself to crochet from a book… and then I taught myself to knit from a book. I’ve never had that fear of “I can’t do that, it’s too hard” I’ve always just tackled it. The main problem I have is just settling on the project I want to do next…. because there are too many good ones to choose from.
Toni said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:16 am
I would have to say that the biggest influence on my knitting has been Ravelry and all of the wonderful people on there. I have made many new knitting friends there as well as my LYS. My mother doesn’t knit (though I tried to teach her, just didn’t stick) and I re-taught myself a couple of years ago since I had originally learned when I was 8 years old. Never looked back since. All of the wonderful new yarns and patterns out there have made me want to branch out and try new things on my own and it’s been so great learning new things to make my knitting better. Now I have more yarn than I know what to do with and more patterns in my Ravelry queue than I’ll be able to knit in a lifetime and I love every minute of it! Thanks Sheri and all of the Elves for making my journey even more colorful.
Ellen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:16 am
People. Just people generally. Whenever I see a knitted project, it tends to inspire me. I love ravelry, knitting blogs and knitting groups.
Erin said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:18 am
Hands down, the biggest influence to my knitting has been my knitting group. Without them, I would probably still be back knitting scarves with acrylic (not to say there’s anything wrong with that, but branching out has been much more fun!).
Cathey said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:21 am
I have to say that my spinning instructor, Margaret Tyler, has had the biggest influence on my knitting, because when I became more proficient at spinning, she encouraged me to actually MAKE something with the yarn I spun, and I’ve been doing that for about six years now. I even won an award at the county fair with a shawl I knitted from handspun alpaca.
Annette said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:22 am
My knitting group has had the greatest influence on my knitting. We meet once a week and share our projects and new yarn with each other and any new info we’ve found online. We go on yarn crawls together and often participate in KALs (Knit Alongs). We’re a close group and knitting wouldn’t be nearly as much fun without them!
Kiki said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:22 am
There are two big influences on my knitting. The first is my friend Chris. It was she who encouraged me to start knitting again after a loooooong absence. It was she who taught me to read patterns and do shaping and all that stuff I thought was too hard. She continues to support me by always wanting to see my projects and making lovely commments about them. The other is Cookie A. I was knitting a pair of Monkey socks and she had written something about just making the heel flap longer if you wanted and picking up more stitches in the gusset. Before that moment it had honestly never occured to me that I could alter a pattern like that! What a wave of confidence!! I am the boss of my knitting now!
Joanne said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:26 am
My knitting friends, and a recently closed LYS (the owner retired).
I don’t think I would have kept going so long and so hard without them.
Lauren said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:26 am
I think my biggest knitting influence is my desire to try something new and to be continually amazed what two sticks and a piece of yarn can do. I learned to knit in grad school to find a way to calm my mind and it has grown to be so much more. I approach any new technique as a challenge which has opened my needles to so many more things I didn’t think I would ever knit. Its always great to have a group of friends who encourage you to expand your experiences but I can’t seem to be able to point to one person or group that has influenced me the most.
Jenn C. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:26 am
I think I am going to have to say that I have not had a single biggest influence on my knitting, except either myself and my own curiosity, or the giant hive mind that is the internet – long before Ravelry, I was on knitting newsgroups and LJ groups and often what I found there was what led me further into the knitting rabbit hole.
Becky said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:27 am
I have to say my Monday Night Knitters group has been the most influential to my knitting. There are so many wonderful ladies, each at different stages of knitting and life (including my oldest daughter!), that encourage, teach, and humor me along my knitting journey. Thank you MNK!!!!
Tracy Armstrong said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:28 am
I have always wanted to learn how to knit and I self-taught myself years ago, but it wasn’t until I took a class at my LYS with Elise, the owner of Only Ewe and Cotton too, that it all clicked…and thus started my obsession for knitting, yarn, and more yarn. There are so many resources and blogs and wonderful people online as well ,so aside from Elise being my biggest influence, the online knitting community has played a big role in that as well ((and the Loopy Ewe is the biggest influence on the fact that my yarn stash is getting out of control
))
Alex said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:28 am
My father who taught me to knit years ago and my partner who inspired me to pick up knitting again after a 30 year hiatus.
Shelley said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:28 am
Initially I’d say it was my mom getting me into it and instilling the passion I have. Beyond that, I would say its all my “friends” on ravelry. I take inspiration daily from watching my friend activity. Its amazing how I can flip thru an IK magazine and not like anything, and 6 months later I see a pattern favorited, or knit up, in my friend activity and suddenly I’m in love.
Katie Swank said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:32 am
I’d say the biggest influence on my knitting has been Ravelry itself – not one group or anything, but the site’s amazing pattern search and such. It’s opened me up to a lot of things I never would have knitted otherwise!
Henrietta Davis said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:32 am
I was a so-so basic knitter until I joined the local guild…I have learned so much since then…either from the guild, or by an increased personal interest sparked by the guild!
RosieG said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:32 am
I took up knitting again after a long absence, and was fortunate to discover Sandi Wiseheart’s Knitting Daily blog. She talked about being a “fearless knitter” and that led me to tackle new things I never thought I could knit – including lace shawls. I’d have to say that Sandi has been my biggest influence. Thank you Sandi!
Marie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:32 am
I saw a sweater in a knitting shop in Sweden which lured me back into knitting and since I must say it has been from a variety of sources – courses I’ve taken, books I’ve purchased and of course the internet and all the wonderful blogs and certainly last but not least is Ravelry.
Overactive tear ducts is something my family also suffers from at very high and hopefully very few, low points but as fast as time has been flying lately she’ll be back home very soon. Travel safely.
Kelli said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:35 am
I draw a lot of inspiration from my friends that I have met through blogging: Kristi, Amby, Dana, Kara, Cynthia, Jessalu, etc. They are my sounding boards and very important to me. When it comes to designers, I would say that Miriam (MimKnits) and Anne (KnitSpot) are who I draw the most inspiration from. If we’re talking yarn suppliers that is, inevitably, the Loopy Ewe. I always come here first.
Gretchen B said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:37 am
I would say I have been the biggest influence on myself. I am self taught and then didn’t know much about difficult (despite being a crocheter before knitting). I’ve pushed myself to try new things. I realize not everything turns out perfect and that you have to frog sometimes.
Other than myself I would say my older sister. She learned a few months before I did and she showed me a little about it. But we are different she’s a thrower and I’m a picker. No matter she has inspired me to try different things that I would not have though of. We also have a friendly competition.
Laura H said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:38 am
Oh boy. That’s a good one
The Yarn Harlot, for sure; I read her books before I really started taking up the needles, so there was a huge amount of influence there (and it sort of ensured that I started off with a no-stress attitude!) My grandmother, although I never knew her when she was knitting much, so I really don’t know what she liked to make. My Ravelry communities, with so many amazing patterns!
And everyone that I knit *for*. Thinking about what they would want definitely encourages me to stretch my boundaries!
NutellaNutterson said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:39 am
Who has had the biggest influence on my knitting? Elizabeth Zimmermann, definitely. I was very lucky that the first knitting book I owned was “Knitting Without Tears”!
Most recently Ravelry, and the entire community of fiber artists that participate there.
Bethany said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:42 am
I would definitely have to say that, as a loom knitter, Isela Phelps has been the largest contributor and source of inspiration over the last few years that I’ve known her…both with her books and bloggie (purlingsprite.com).
Thanks for the great contests!
Teresa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:43 am
The mother of a friend of mine…she taught me to knit when I was in elementary school. It was during her son and my brother’s Mighty Might football practice. Since then my friend Vanessa has kept me going! It was because of her that I went to Sock Summit and bought my Atenti bag from Loopy Ewe!!!
Michele in Maine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:43 am
My sister inspired me to knit when I saw her making adorable things for my nephew to be. Then my friend Julie introduced me to sock knitting (the first one took 6 months!). After that it was sites like knitty.com, Knitter’s Review, and more recently, Ravelry that kept/keep me going. And certainly TLE has played no small role in feeding my habit! Thank you!
Carol said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:43 am
I think I have to say Lime n Violet. They certainly had the biggest influence on stash enhancement, but there’s was one of the first podcasts I found and certainly one that makes me LOL on street corners, on the bus, on the train.
Amy Joyce said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:43 am
Ravelry has been a big influence on my knitting. I taught myself how to knit from books and the internet about 9 months ago, and boy am I hooked!
I love just looking at yarn and all of the amazing poatterns out there, they for sure influence me.
Julie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:46 am
I think my biggest knitting influence has to be Ravelry!
Michel said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:46 am
My mom is definitely my inspiration. She taught me to knit by taking me to a knitting group, where I was inducted by trial by fire (or needles, so to speak). Since then, she’s talked me through a heel-turn on a miniature sock over the phone three-days before Christmas, helped me learn cabling, and is now attempting to teach herself Portguese-style knitting on her own. There’s nothing this lady can’t do, and it keeps me motivated to continue to challenge myself in my knitting as well.
Cindy in Happy Valley said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:50 am
Remarkably, the largest influence on my knitting recently has been the internet. When I first started to knit (back in the 80s) I was an island. I didn’t know from nobody who was a regular knitter, I was a lone wolf, ‘er sheep — after the woman who got me started changed jobs and moved away. Then in 1991, I ran across an internet beading group, then a knitting group (all text), then Mosiac on a Mac…..and well…. then, finally, most recently Knitty (knitty.com). And EVERYTHING changed…for the better!
Kelly said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:52 am
The person who has most influenced my knitting is my dear teacher, Jan. When I started knitting, she was so kind and encouraging. She never criticized me for my mistakes. Instead, she would tell me my mistakes were excellent because it’s just as important to learn how to fix mistakes as it is to learn to master knitting techniques.
In this way, she helped me be fearless in trying new techniques.
Even more, her kindness and generosity has created several lovely groups of people who meet for social knitting. Through our teacher, we’ve developed friendships that have sustained us through difficult life circumstances–loss of jobs, family, beloved pets–and our friendships have grown far beyond the confines of our knitting groups.
My knitting teacher has not only influenced my knitting–she has also influenced my life.
Susan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:56 am
I truly do not have one influence….. I really like Jenny Watson for sweater designs but I am eclectic when it comes to socks. I can say that I really haven’t found a designer that I truly like over all others. But haven’t been knitting socks for very long I am sure that it will change. But I have to say that your company and one other and Raverly is a constant inspiration and motivator in wanting to start and finish ( finishing is always the hardest ) projects.
Stephanie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 10:57 am
I don’t think it’s any one person that influences what I knit so much as seeing and hearing about the vast array of knitting that is going on now. Between magazines, blogs, podcasts and Ravelry, there’s always something that seems to send my interest in a different direction and shows me new possibilities. I just need to find a way to get more time to knit!
Angela said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:01 am
I have had several influences, but not particular people. Mostly I see a pattern that I want to try or there is something that someone mentions they like and I decide that’s the next thing that I’ll try. There are specific techniques or projects that I’ve been influenced to try after seeing someone else’s results.
knitography said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:02 am
Ravelry has definitely become my main source of inspiration – so many beautiful projects, all in one place!
5elementknitr said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:03 am
When I learned (summer ‘03), I became immediately obsessed and wanted to learn all there was to learn. Somehow, I found knitty.com and I went to the first issue and read every bit all the way up to their latest issue.
I also went to the local knitting teacher (who was a good friend of mine!). I’d schedule an hour with her and I’d show up and say, “OK, I want to learn this, this and this – go!” and we’d spend an hour laughing and I’d learn a bunch of stuff.
I don’t know that I have an influence, I’m kind of all over the place. I like to design and I like to noodle around on Rav.
Jennifer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:06 am
My biggest knitting influences have been my daughter (so many cute things to make her), the nice and super helpful ladies at my LYS and the internet. Without the internet, I wouldn’t have access to all the great patterns and blogs with photos. They’ve inspired me to try new things. Yay!
Jen in Sac
Rebecca said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:08 am
My mom- She taught me how to crochet when I was in middle school. Okay she handed me a book, a hook and some yarn and let me futz around with it. But it was inspiring.
My great aunt Satchie- She may have been my great, great aunt. She was OLD, and she lived with my grandparents the year I went to NY to visit them on my own. I think I was 8 or 9. She taught me how to knit on a little spindle.
Lea- She inspired me to make the jump to knitting. Now she’s irritated that I’m better than she is. I don’t think it’s true, I’m just faster.
Adam- for always complimenting my work and encouraging me to splurge on nice yarn, because according to him, “Life is too short to knit with cheap wool.”
Amy Jo said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:09 am
My mom taught me to knit when I was little, but I didn’t pick it up again unitl 15 years ago when I was visiting my grandma, who I consider my knittting inspiration. She knit child-sized cardigans for a local charity and she would finish 2 or 3 every month right up until she passed away about 5 years ago. I have her cardigan pattern, one that had you put in all the numbers to make a custom size, with all her written numbers for the different ages of children and adults she used it for. I have used it to knit cardigans for my family, but want to continue her legacy and knit for kids in need.
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:12 am
My biggest influence has been my husband. Not just that he has a great sense of style, but he’s encouraged me to try new things. Even got me a floor loom for Christmas a couple years back.
Of course, he doesn’t want to know how much $$ I spend on yarn each month, but we’ll keep that our little secret!
Nancy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:13 am
Sheri, I’m glad your anniversary month was a success, and I think you all need a rest! I’m influenced by patterns…and yarn to go with it. Ravelry is a great resource for this. If I see a pattern enough it keeps speaking to me!
Shel Kennon said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:13 am
My biggest influence has been Brandy (pixiepurls), who was always knitting cool stuff and got me into it as well.
arctiknits said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:16 am
The owner of my LYS has definitely had the biggest influence on my knitting. She took me from a dishcloth knitter to a knitting instructor. I owe so much to her!
Lisa Swanson said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:18 am
My LYS Clickity Sticks (sadly now closed), it’s owner Tamara, and the great knitting friends I made at the weekly Knit Nite. i was an occasional knitter, doing simple baby afghans and such when I needed a gift, by with the encouragement from the shop, staff and knitters, I’ve blossomed as a knitter, expanded my horizans and skills and am now a true fiber fanatic. I always have multiple projects going which includes at least one pair of socks. I even entered our State Fair this year for the first time, but did not win – but there’s always next year!
Barbara S. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:21 am
Annie Modesitt – I knit in the combo style like she does. I don’t knit “wrong” I simply knit differently.
Laura in Decatur said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:21 am
My mom and my husband. My mom because she taught me how to crochet when I was a kid and that started me down the crafty path. My husband because he’s never given me a hard time about taking (more) knitting classes or attending events such at Stitches or SAFF.
Milly said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:22 am
I’d have to say the biggest influence on my knitting has to come from my Grandma. She taught me to knit when I was a little little girl and it just did not stick. But ten years ago when I decided to give it another go, my hands just remembered what to do! Since then I’ve knit a lot for her, whatever she wants… she gets! You see, she’s got arthritis really bad in her hands and had to give up knitting sewing and playing the organ about fifteen years ago. So now my hands are her hands, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Thanks so much for this great blog, this great question and more importantly all the great yarn! Have a great day
)
God Bless,
Milly
Heather N said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:22 am
Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting?
Ooo, that is a good question.
I would have to say CosmicPluto… I remember when I found her blog ages ago… it made me feel that, knitting and knitting well is do-able.
Her photos of her knitting, her patterns, her wips, kind of inspired me.
Plus, it made me feel that ‘If she can do this beautiful work… why can’t I!?’ in a good way.
I especially loved when she came out with her Sock Knitting book, that kind of made me even more in loved with the concept of a hobby becoming something more of a ’side’ job. I may be a be envious, but in the most positive way it could be. Mostly because, ‘I want to be like that’. ;D
Lisa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:24 am
I really don’t have a greatest influence on any of my crafts. I just do what I like. I taught myself how to knit, crochet, cross-stitch, tat, quilt, etc. when I was very young. So I feel that ultimately, I’m responsible for choosing what to make and how to go about doing it. I guess I’m my own greatest influence and tend to be a lone wolf about it. I really dislike knit-a-longs and crochet-a-longs or anything “a-long.” I prefer snooping around by myself for a project and almost never work on my crafts in public. That’s probably the complete opposite of most people, but it takes all types of people.
c said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:24 am
My mother!
(Another) Joan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:24 am
My thanks go to my Tante Trudy, a left-hander like me, who had the patience to teach to knit that my mother lacked! Tante Trudy got me started with the basics, and I went forth and experimented. This was in France in the ’80s, so my experiments were pretty tame. I knitted for a few years, then stopped when the babies came. I picked up the needles again three years ago when I wanted to handknit a baby gift for a special mother-to-be, then click led to shove and the Yarn Harlot… and eventually Ravelry. It’s lovely to know there are so many of us scattered throughout the world, and that no matter what knitting difficulty I might encounter, I will be able to find an answer there. So my ultimate influence is all of you!
Clarissa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:25 am
My children are the biggest influence on my knitting. I love to knit for them and teach them the art of knitting.
Angela said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:30 am
I must credit Elizabeth Zimmerman as my biggest knitting influence. I bought “Knitting Without Tears” as I was learning to knit, and it gave me the confidence I needed to “be the boss of my knitting”. I have since bought most of her books, and love her simple, yet mathematically elegant style of knitting design. I am never afraid to alter knitting patterns to suit me, thanks to her. Thank you Elizabeth!
Christine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:32 am
Gosh! How to narrow that down….? I think I’d have to say that my biggest influence has to be the designers who create all the wonderful patterns that I just have to try. Because I just had to have that (sock, shawl, cardi, etc.) I’ve had to learn to be a little fearless (although strandwork still scares me too much to try – for now) and trust that the designer won’t steer me wrong! Thanks to them all for making me a better knitter!
Sandi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:32 am
Other knitters in general – seeing what they are doing, what they have done.
Sandi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:32 am
Other knitters in general – seeing what they are doing, what they have done.
Ella said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:34 am
Oh, my! So many inspirational influences that it seems impossible to choose one over the others. My LYS, The Rainey Sisters blog, Cat Bordhi’s workshop, Ravelry knit-alongs, knitting magazines and books, appreciative recipients of my knitting efforts, the pure joy of knitting and learning new techniques as well as the guilty pleasure of web surfing for yarns and patterns. Where would my knitting be without any one of these terrific influences?
Ella in the Rockies
MaryO said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:34 am
Hmmmmmmmmmm. My first knitting lesson was from my sister. My mom helped quite a bit too. She was a very good knitter. As I got older I relied on (and still do) my friend Cheryl who is a TRUE fiber artist. Also my current muse is Wendy Johnson (Wendy Knits!) – she is SUCH an inspiration, as is her beautiful kittah – Lucy!
Lynn B said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:42 am
My grandmother taught me to knit when I was a child. My mother taught me to PURL when I was in college and came to her asking, “how do you make that nice, flat knitting?” But the lady that influenced me the most was my friend Mrs. C. She’s the mother of some friends I had (still have) in High School. My kids call her Gramma C. She knits and knits and wins at the fair and sells her knitting and has a stash that would make you drool! Truly an inspiration to all that know her.
Seanna Lea said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:48 am
I’m not sure if this is a good thing, but Debbie Stoller had a huge influence on my knitting. I started knitting again when I saw how fun her first Stitch and Bitch book was. Before that, I hadn’t done any knitting since high school, and had been concentrating on cross-stitch and a little bit of tatting. I loved looking in this book and seeing simple explanations for how to do things. It was great to have the walk through before I found people who could do the little bit of hand holding I would need.
Nowadays, I find that my biggest influence are other bloggers. It’s great to see a pattern all done up by a real person (not that the designers or test knitters aren’t real people, but seeing something knit up by someone who has shown their own knitting failures makes me feel better about tackling some of the harder projects) and know what kind of modifications worked best for a short waist or narrower shoulders.
KatherineR said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:48 am
My biggest knitting influence probably was my first roommate in college (very many years ago). You could say she got me hooked.
Dr. Jackie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:49 am
So many people… Probably the biggest influence was my Grandmother…who taught me to knit and crochet when I was 4 years old. She also taught me to sew, embroider, needlepoint, make hairpin lace, and bake. She firmly believed in “the womanly arts”. While she would not have approved of all my years of education (in her day and her culture women were NOT educated…), she most certainly would approve of my knitting!
Dorothy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:50 am
I learned to knit from my mom forever ago. I have to say say though that the most inspiration today comes from all the wonderful indy dyers who have made yarn into pieces of art. Colour in all aspects of my life is what presents wonderful opportunities to create. I look at all the beautiful yarn and immediantly I feel a pull to create the perfect item from a beautiful medium!
Elizabeth said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:51 am
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee has been a big influence on my knitting. Her Knitting Rules book is the one I return to most often. It’s also the reason I learned how to knit socks. I love how she encourages us all not to be afraid to try new things. She has inspired me to take on more challenging projects.
Sheri said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:52 am
I would have to say my Grandma, although she mostly did crochet. She taught me to crochet when I was in grade school. I didn’t crochet for many years and then when I picked it back up about 10 yrs. ago I also taught myself how to knit. At that time and still the internet and knitting magazines are my main source of inspiration.
Sheri in KY
Shana said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:53 am
Happy Anniversary again!
I would say I’m highly influenced by the magazines Knit.1 and Knitscene. I’m also inspired by movies I see. Recently, I was watching New in Town (it’s very funny!) and I noticed everyone was wearing berets. I have been trying over and over again to get a hat pattern I found to work and it just clicked for me. I frogged the hat and made my beret in just two short days! 
I love it when things like that happen. Now if only it would get cold….
ringer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:53 am
I can’t pick just one! Either my mother (because I doubt I would have ever learned if not from her) or Elizabeth Zimmerman (because of the way her patterns are written, encouraging the knitter to step beyond being a blind follower).
danielle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:57 am
The biggest influence has been the internet. It has allowed me to see so many different patterns – and finished items than I would otherwise have seen! And altho I much prefer to pet and pat yarns, it has also allowed me to be introduced to so many different yarns than any concrete store could! Also, allowing me to meet many famous and not-so-famous designers up close and personal! And where else could you get an immediate answer to any question – any time of the day or week????
Kate said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:58 am
I can’t say if any one person has had more influence on my knitting than another – I think my choice of projects is more driven by a combination of color and fiber. I’ll typically buy a yarn for its feel and/or color and then find a project to match, and then go! I probably get that from my mom
Barbara said,
August 25, 2009 @ 11:59 am
I get ideas from knitting magazines, blogs, and seeing what other people are
making. Sometimes, I even come up with my own ideas. Doesn’t always work out,
but I try. I also listen to my grandchildren and find out what they would wear
if I knit it for them.
Michelle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:04 pm
The women at my LYS have been wonderfully supportive and encouraging!
Kara said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:09 pm
My mom was probably the biggest influence in really getting me started knitting. She was always an avid crafter of all kinds & taught me a lot of it when I was younger, even though I didn’t keep up with knitting then.
When I really started knitting, it’s been friends & other knitters who inspired me to take the plunge into “harder” things. I remember that I finally decided to knit socks when a friend in Germany cracked it. Once she posted pictures of her finished socks, I was determined to figure it out for myself and now I LOVE hand knit socks.
Heather said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:12 pm
I am a self taught knitter, so authors have been my bigest knitting influence. Maggie Righetti and Anna Ziboorg showed me that I can be fearless in my knitting. Try it out and see what happens.
Deanna said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:13 pm
My biggest influence was a secret pal, who took the time to not only send me several different ‘how to’ knit kits, but also included links to helpful online sites, and provided massive encouragement along the way…..and it worked! I’ve now been successfully knitting since December 08!
Donna Docks said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:14 pm
Hi Sheri and all the elves…
I have been knitting forever! I recently turned 60 and I started to knit when I was 5…I used to think it was because of a girl scout badge, but, I was too young for that. I do remember that it was our neighbor who actually taught me. And the rest is history! I used to take my knitting to the show when I was a kid. I was the oldest of 5 and it was routine to take my 2 brothers and 2 sisters to the show on Saturday afternoons…gave mom & dad time to “relax”…you know what I mean!!! Dad used to say that he bet he could put knitting needles in my hands when I was asleep and I could knit something! It’s been a wonderful voyage and fantastic that it has come into it’s own, again!!!
Debbie M said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:14 pm
Elizabeth Zimmermann, hands down. My mother taught me the stitches, but EZ set me free.
Mette said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:17 pm
I would say Ravelry makes a huge impact on my knitting. Being on ravelry gives me great ideas for new projects, and I find new yarn I wish to try out.
Nancy Jewett said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:18 pm
I learned to crochet as a child from my grandma, but taught myself to knit a few years ago. I love it! Now I’m taking classes, reading knitting blogs, attending knitting groups……..I have a lot to learn, but can’t wait to start doing more than scarves and socks……..thank you, Loopy Ewe, for motivating me even more!
Jennifer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:23 pm
My biggest influence? Maybe Debbie Stoller because she taught me to knit through her Stitch ‘n Bitch book, or perhaps the wonderful teachers I have since had at my LYS, or maybe it’s been the wonderful knitting communities I’ve found out here in cyberspace. I do have to give props though to my wonderful partner who has been so encouraging about my knitting and relatively patient in regards to yarn purchases!
Theresa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:27 pm
Oh! man! that’s a tough one……I think that the biggest influence would be…..the Internet! Way back when in the early to mid 90’s, most of the help I found in relearning to knit after a hiatus of too many years, was searching the internet: AOL, Yahoo, and various listserv’s(for example) that catered to knitting groups. Between the groups and my public library, I was able to gain access to the techniques and styles that interested me and fed my thirst for fiber.
Dawn said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:28 pm
No question about it…my friends. Be they live and in person or spread through out the interwebs, they are a constant source of inspiration, support and motivation. (not to mention yarn, patterns, fiber and tools. I have me some good friends, yep I do.)
Jen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:31 pm
Cookie A is the reason I got into knitting “fancy” socks.
Julie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:33 pm
I think for me it would have to be the collective influence of what I have found on the internet. Reading blogs, learning about different designs and designers. It is amazing how many different and new ideas/patterns/techniques I have learned about though my time on the internet.
Secret Agent said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:34 pm
Wow, thank you! I can hardly believe I won!
Congrats to the other winners, and good luck to the new contestants, I’ll sit this one out.
My biggest influence? Without a doubt, Knitty and Interweave. Of course, I wouldn’t even be a knitter if it weren’t for three very special friends. Most recently, my desire was to learn to knit as a way of continuing something that my grandmother did. She made the most basic of blankets, but there is so much love entwined in the stitches! If I all I ever do is pass that love on, I will have accomplished much.
jamy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:36 pm
Like a lot of people, my biggest influence was my mother. While she doesn’t knit anymore, she knit for me and herself when I was little. She taught me how to knit and gave me the confidence to know I could do it. I didn’t take it up again until the last couple of years but her lessons stuck with me.
Melissa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:38 pm
I have been my own biggest influence – learning to listen to my own instincts about the fibers I love, the patterns I want to try, my skill level, and how I want to spend my knitting time.
Second biggest influence – Ravelry – I had no idea there were so many free patterns in the world, and fellow knitters who wanted to offer support and advice, and just all around knitting inspiration.
maureen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:41 pm
I’d have to say Cookie A and Cat Bordhi. Amazing sock designs!
Ray said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:41 pm
A lot of people have influenced me over time. I had not knit for quite a while when I found some knitting blogs that got me itching for my needles again. The most significant to me were Knit and Tonic, Nona Knits, The Yarn Harlot, and Wendy Knits. I find each of these women really fascinating!! Now that I’ve started knitting again and have accumulated an OMG stash, Loopy Ewe keeps me buying altho I think I have more than I can do in this lifetime!!
Eileen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:47 pm
I think Ravelry as a whole has had an incredible influence on my knitting. There are so many patterns I would not have tried on my own… Also, Betsy McCarthy, author of Knit Socks! used to frequent my LYS, and encouraged me to try socks for myself… The beginning of my obsession and she doesn’t even know it!
Terri said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:47 pm
I was influenced by my mother in the fact that she made sure we, as children, were given knitting lessons. An elderly neighbor, who knitted for a living, gave lessons on the side. She was of german descent and knitted continental style. So, when I was in fifth grade and my sister was in third, we learned to knit. We actually got quite advanced for children as we were knitting vests and sweaters at the time. I made my mother a sweater as a thank you for letting us take the lessons. It was from a kit, and was way more sophisticated than anything a child would usually knit, but I did it! What is funny about the whole thing is that my mother and I never sat and knit together. Ever.
Michelle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:49 pm
I would have to say myself even though that sounds awfully self-centered. I get inspired by colors and random thoughts in my head.
Kathy in KS said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:49 pm
I know what I’d like to say. I’d like to say it was my mom who had influence in my knitting. It was she who taught me to cast on and knit many many years ago. Alas, though, I became a teenager and everything to do with my mom became instantly un-cool. My nana, though, crocheted, and that I have to admit is my first love. About 5 years ago, we were beginning to pack up our house in FL to move up to KS, and I put most of my yarn and projects away to hide the clutter. Then I couldn’t take it, and in a fit of desperation, I bought a learn to knit kit and knit up a completely awful baby hat.
Then I remembered my Grandpa. He was my mom’s mom, and he knit hats. Whenever he’d come for a visit, he’d always bring dozens of hats, and he’d take them up to my grade school, and the staff would sneak them to kids who needed them. I always thought that was so cool. I still have a few of the hats my Grandpa knit, and it’s so amazing to see my kids wear them. After I did that baby hat, I thought, I bet I could do a hat like my Grandpa did. I found a hat, figured out that it was a simple K2 P2 rib, and that he started with 100 st. I have since made dozens of the very same hat, and have given lots away. It’s hard though, since whenever I finish a new one, one of my 3 boys always thinks that it must be for him!
So, in answer, it’d have to be my Grandpa 60, as we called him, who had the greatest influence on my knitting. Even though he never taught me to cast on, never taught me to knit or purl, and never taught me to decrease and bind off, he taught me everything about the giving nature of knitting, and how, if we’re given a talent, it really should be shared with others and not hoarded and kept for ourselves.
Lulynn Foster said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:51 pm
Mrs. Wilson from my church, taught 8 girls the summer I was 10. That is the summer I knit my first sweater. I had to “frog the back umteen gillion times. I still have that little sweater. I think of Mrs. Wilson every time I have to frog something. I knit thru high school and put the needles aside until I married and had children. Once again they came out of hiding. I didn’t get really serious about it ( where I knit every day) until about 4-5 years ago. My mother doesn’t knit. My grandmother learned about 8-10 years after I did. Today I have a very good knitting friend named Kathy.
We share all thing knitting and inspire one another. The women in my volunteer group are also inspiring, as well as other knitting friends. I like to challenge myself and if I don’t know how to do something- there is always the internet, Ravelry, etc.
It is amazing that I never heard of EZ until a few years ago. I must have been living under a rock all this time
NewJerseyLaura said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:53 pm
My library knitting group, nicknamed “Bottles and Cans Knitting” because we meet on the bottles & cans recycling Wednesdays
Lisa Kay Wilson said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:53 pm
Lately, Ravelry.
Susan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:54 pm
The most influential people on my knitting have been all the friends I have acquired at my LYS, A Tangled Skein. Before our weekly sit’n'knit I was a rectangle knitter only. Scarves, etc. Now, I have completed multiple pairs of socks, a sweater, several tees and learned to knit lace. There is always someone there who can answer a question, help me work out a problem or give words of encouragement when I have taken on a project that is a little more than my experience can handle. They always help me through it and giveme just enough info to figure it out on my own! Just the most perfect way for me to learn! Because of my experiences with our group, I have grown as a knitter and as an individual and feel that my life has been enriched more than I can say. I look forward always to a new knitting challenge, knowing that my friends are always there to help if I need it!
Tabby said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:54 pm
I don’t have any knitters in my close family, so I taught myself via knittinghelp.com and some various books/magazines/websites. But Elizabeth Zimmerman’s Knitting Without Tears was probably the biggest influence on me. Her general philosophy of ‘it’s just knitting’ when things go wrong, and fearless attitude about what can be done, have made knitting a very low-stress and enjoyable hobby for me. The Yarn Harlot has also been very influential (and fun!)
Carol Green said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:55 pm
Who influences my knitting the most? It must be those voices in my head!
Barb said,
August 25, 2009 @ 12:56 pm
I think the Yarn Harlot (Stephanie Pearl McPhee) has probably been the biggest influence lately – just because she is so open about blogging when she messes up or misreads a pattern or gets bored with a project. It makes me feel like I’m not the only one
Lately, Ravelry has done the same, and the patterns search, combined with such supportive groups, has encouraged me to follow YH’s example a bit more and try new things – like the first toe-up socks I just finished!
Tabitha said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:00 pm
Who has had the biggest influence on your knitting? My biggest influence in knitting was my friend Andera. I was told by my doctors to find something to unstress me before my heart gave out. Which was really hard for me considering at the time no one could really tell me what was wrong with my son. So she said why don’t I teach you how to knit because it help me. So I said I will try anything at this point. She taught me very well with in a week I was knitting socks and loved every minute of it. My husband will tell me if I am stressed go knit and relaxe. She also turn me on to dyeing yarn as well Which is a total blast and I love doing that to.
Now I can’t even think about my life without knitting or my yarn stash.
God bless
Tabitha
p.s. Please people keep donating that blood and plasma ! You are helping my family.(my son) I am very grateful to everyone who has ever donated. God Bless you all in every way!!
Number of Donors who have helped my family so far: 495 people !
Linda said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:04 pm
Ravelry has had a big influence on me. Sheri, you have also, with your challenges and posts here of pictures of yarns and projects people have sent in. Wendy Johnson has influenced me alot and Elizabeth Zimmerman – I like the attitude that it’s OK to try it…and “go for it”. I still can’t seam a sweater, tho, so I’m waiting for someone to motivate me in that direction.
Michelle Sorge said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:09 pm
My dear friend Nicki. I’ve followed her throughout all of her crafting adventures – scrapbooking, jewelry-making – and swore I wouldn’t pick up her next one – knitting. But…she managed to get me hooked. And then, when I swore I would never ever knit socks, she showed me the light and I haven’t looked back! Beyond knitting, she truly is one of my very few most cherished friends. (And I think I get props for getting her hooked on The Loopy Ewe!)
tabitha said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:10 pm
Miss Elaine who showed me that I wasn’t too uncoordinated to knit, EZ for helping me to correct the twist in my purling and Ravelry for opening up the world of possibilities.
Patti said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:15 pm
The biggest influences on my knitting have been Stephanie Pearl-McPhee and Brenda Dayne. Listening to Brenda and reading Stephanie’s works have helped to keep me sane & on track as I continue on my knitting journey.
Laura E. Shallenberger said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:15 pm
This will sound so narsacistic (lol), but I am my bigest inflluence. It all sstarted when I saw a scarf I loved at specialty shop in an amish community and decided I would rather learn how to knit than pay the price for the scarf. So I had a friend show me the basic knit stitch, taught myself how to purl off the internet and then decided to take a class months later when I purchased some expensive silk yarn to make my daughter a sweater after a few months of knitting. I convinced myself that I better make sure I was knitting properly before I “waisted” the pricey yarn. My instuctor Sue has influenced me since that first class. That was three years ago and I haven’t stopped knitting. My family room looks like a yarn shop and I even have sheep and yarn wallpaper border and lambs decorating the entire room
! I love to buy yarn, touch it, and imagine what it can become then make it happen. It is so fulfilling to see the finished product and so much fun to watch it emerge and then be used!
My Grandmother was a crocheter and tried to teach me when I was young, but I never got the hang of it-I guess I just wasn’t interested back then. I wish she was still alive to see me knitting up a storm-she would be so proud and happy. I knit in her memory-so in reality she is part of my inspiration.
Thanks for all the fun yarn, the weekly groupie newsletters, these special Anniversary sales and all you do to help me keep knitting-you too are an inspiration to me! I so enjoy browsing The Loopy Ewe site, love all the colors, and knitting bags and accesories that help make my knitting safe and tucked away “stylishly” (is that a word?lol) Keep on unpacking those boxes and posting those fun e-letters!!!!!
Joyfully Knitting,
Laura in Pennsylvania
Brenda said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:18 pm
Clifford J. Coffin has had the most significant influence on my knitting. His endowment to the local library ensures the library can buy all sorts of knitting books. I always check the new book shelf for his little gifts. Thank you, Mr. Coffin!
Angela said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:23 pm
My biggest influence was Debbie Stoller and her Stitch n Bitch books. She fed the fire when I was just starting out and looking for fun projects to do. I still love her books and her whole approach to knitting.
Susie Rothman said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:25 pm
I get lots of pattern ideas from Ravelry. Usually I fall in love with some yummy yarn and then go surfing to find a pattern. I love the Loopy website, especially the home page with the small photos of all the yarn and other goodies.
Susie
Debra I said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:25 pm
I’m the craft crazy person in the family. I see it, I do it. And I can figure out how to do things from books, though it may take a bit of studying and pondering to get the picture. I love to collect books on a subject that I’m currently into, and I’ve been into knitting for a while, so I have a pretty good inspirational library. Knitting is where I can feel adventurous.
And then, there’s The Internet!! I thought I’d never be knitting socks because I couldn’t get a handle on those pesky dbl pt needles. Then I found knitting on 2 circulars and toe-up construction, and I was knitting socks! Thank you, Wendy Johnson. I found Wendy’s blog and got into new knitting territory. I wanted to knit lace, and eventually put on my big girl panties and picked a project. The inspiration came from looking at all the lovely shawls people were knitting and talking about online. Now, I can knit lace! I love learning as I go — so the more I do, the better I can understand the next level.
Isn’t the Internet a great place?
Pat said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:27 pm
A friend at work has been the biggest influence. I had knit sweaters for 45 years. But 5 years ago she helped me to realize that I could ‘branch out’. Now there’s always a pair of socks on the needles – hats, scarves and shawls too! It seems like there’s always something new!
Laura - TinkerTots said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:28 pm
My mother and grandmother taught me to knit dishcloths about six years ago. I would never have even though of knitting if they hadn’t come to visit. Now I don’t know what I’d do without it.
Marsha said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:28 pm
My biggest influence was Wendy’s sock patterns that I can knit and Sheri’s blogs here and TLE ravelry groups! Thanks for all the beautiful patterns and yarn from you both.
Traci said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:37 pm
Various Ravelry groups are my biggest inspiration, since I don’t know many knitters in my day-to-day life.
Jan said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:42 pm
Mmm, this is hard. I don’t know how to answer. I’ve knit since 9th grade, I think, but always followed patterns. I still follow patterns, but often add my own twist in yarn used. I’m still evolving into a more thinking knitter. I’ve only designed a few things, and it takes a lot of time and reworking.
I’d have to say Elizabeth Zimmermann, for making me think, and then blogs and Ravelry for continuing the process.
Christine said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
My mom, bless her heart! She is an inspiration in so many ways.
Deborah VonBrutt said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
I have always been self motivated to learn new things in my knitting. I have only recently found all the wonder sites (like Ravelry) to help me. I taught myself all I know from books.
Debi
Kat Jorgensen said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:46 pm
My mom was my biggest influence for knitting. She and I picked projects and shopped for yarn together. We’d sit and chat as we’d both knit on our projects. I miss her so much, but I’m ever so glad we had the time together.
Lauren said,
August 25, 2009 @ 1:53 pm
I mostly make up my own patterns and am a designer IRL, but I’m also clearly influenced by the knitblogging community and ravelry as well.
beth camp said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
the internet has influenced my knitting. sounds weird, but i can only afford so many books and the library doesn’t have the same resources.
Blogs, posts, web sites and utube have influenced my knitting so much. I don’t think i could be doing what i’m doing now ( I’M KNITTING SOCKS!) if it wasn’t for the amazing resources out there on the internet. i’m a visual learner, pictures in books don’t make any sense to me. I’ve gone onto utube many times to learn how to do a new stitch. Often what i had thought would be way too complicated turned out so easy.
I’m 46 and still learning. I hope to keep learning until the day i die.
Thank you everyone who share your ideas, inspirations, creations and images online.
Pam Muhammad said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:00 pm
A person who has most influenced my knitting………………..
What has most influenced my knitting is the discovery of non-acrylic yarn. Publications like Interweave Knits and authors like Ann Budd, Nancie Wiseman, Elizabeth Zimmerman and Nancy Bush – opened up the fiber resource door for me and inspired me to explore techniques and fibers.
It has been a learning journey since the time ………………………
my Mom taught me how to make a crochet chain when I was 6 and from that point on I had to teach myself to crochet and knit because I never met anyone who dit this except in places like working colonial museeums…………………..
Kelley said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:07 pm
I am going to have to say that Ravelry has probably had the biggest impact on my knitting. I don’t have to be looking for anything in particular but may stumble upon a WIP that someone has posted a picture of or sometimes I just get curious to see what the hottest patterns are that day and the next thing I know my queue will have grown exponentially. I hadn’t even thought about doing lace knitting until I saw something about a mystery shawl along and kept telling myself ‘why not, it is only knits and purls, I can do that!’
Julie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:10 pm
My great-grandmother has influenced my knitting the most. Without her I probably wouldn’t even be knitting
Judi said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:11 pm
That’s really hard to narrow down. I feel that I’ve been influenced by so many people. I taught myself to knit when I was 16, to crochet at 19, and it wasn’t back in style then yet. But I always saw these gorgeous, very high priced sweaters in stores and kept thinking, I could make that. Now, I’m inspired by so many magazines, designers and especially Ravelry. I love looking through the projects and getting inspired by a certain colorway, design, or yarn. It has really opened a whole new world of knitting/crocheting to me.
Frances said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:11 pm
It’s difficult to pick the biggest influence, because at different times it has been different people, things, etc. But the biggest influences on me ahve been other people’s blogs, seeing different projects on Rav, and the dyers. I think dyers have a tremendous effect because it is their work that inspires the potential for what my knitting can become.
Deborah Castelli said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:17 pm
Without any doubt – my biggest knitting influence was Elizabeth Zimmerman. Having “knit in a vacuum” for decades – believing that I was the last knitter left on the planet, I found Elizabeth and Meg on Public Television. Her (their) “un-ventions” in knitting helped me to find the wonder and magic of taking 2 sticks and a string and creating something wonderful. Elizabeth and Meg taught me to experience knitting in a whote new way, and to become the master of my craft. I will be forever grateful to them for both inspiration and comfort!
Ana M-tK said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:18 pm
Getting together with other young knitters inspires my needles! That, and all the great patterns and projects on Ravelry (although this does more for my inspiration than my productivity, because I spend hours looking at patterns instead of knitting).
Kathy H said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:19 pm
My mother was my first inspiration. Just sitting there watching her knit effortlessly as I was a kid. But now my inspiration comes from the web. Places like Ravelry and Knitty give me ideas.
Cathy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:22 pm
Lime and Violet have had the biggest influence on my purchasing of yarn (ENABLERS!) including purchases from the Loopy Ewe.
My mom has been the biggest influence on my actual knitting projects. She taught me how to knit and has been helping me ever since.
Melissa said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:24 pm
The biggest influence on my knitting is just what is going on around me. Right now I am big on baby knits because everyone I know is having a baby.
Andrea Coleman said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:32 pm
I taught myself to crochet at age 7 and enjoyed it for many years. I discovered I could knit at the ripe old age of 38 and haven’t put down the needles yet! I read everything I can get my hands on and will try just about any stitch. Right now I am addicted to socks! I love that they are extremely portable and look very stylish in my way cool knitting bag. People think that I am carrying around two purses and when they ask why I just tell them that all my money just won’t fit in one bag!
So, I would have to say that the biggest influence to me would have to be the fantastic advertising that is done to promote our wonderful and useful hobby – kudos!
Alexis said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:33 pm
Oh gosh, I was going to say I’m not exactly what my biggest knitting influences have been, but thinking it over that’s not true. I’m a huge blog and Ravelry haunter — I love seeing all the lovely things everyone makes! I don’t have any friends “in real life” who knit, so online communities are where I do most of my knitterly learning and socializing. I’m quite the online knitter junkie these days! So I’d say my biggest influence has been the internet and all the cool people who have discovered how fun it can be to jabber on about knitting online!
Kari said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:34 pm
Ravelry is my #1 influence. I also love Ysolda’s and Norah’s style.
kit said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:38 pm
I think Wendy and the other bloggers(too many to name individually) have had the greatest influence because I see what they are producing and I want to try and keep up. I love seeing new patterns worked out and inventive color combinations. I especially love the fairisle projects. They stun me with their beauty and complexity but I’m too chicken to try it myself.
Virginia said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:39 pm
I love Aran cable knitting, Kaffe Fassett designs and Wendy’s socks.
Stephanie said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:39 pm
My best friend Sara is the reason I took up knitting again. She joined the knitting club in high school and I thought it would be an awesome way to hang out with more people. Little did I know the world she opened to me!
hillis said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:43 pm
My two best friends, Linda and Ann, Linda and I love the same yarns and patterns and Ann gives me my confidence that I can knit any pattern.
Laura said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:45 pm
Reading the blogs (Yarn Harlot, Brooklyn Tweed, Mason Dixon Knitting, and several others) and Ravelry influence my knitting the most. I like seeing the finished projects and getting information about how the patterns work and modifications/tweaks that have been made to the patterns to make them fit better or make the construction easier.
Joanne Edwards said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:53 pm
My influences come from a variety of places…believe it or not, I was taught to knit by my parish priest when I was in 5th grade and he was doing a fund raiser knitted afghan, and I was interested in learning to knit. No one else in my family knits, and a few friends do, but those are the ones I have taught. Ahhh, but they all want knitted items…and socks are big. My influences are the yarn…I adore silk…and my projects get expensive…oh baby do I ever love Lorna’s Laces…those last 4 skeins I ordered on sale are rapidly making a shawl for me…YES! I also tend to get caught up in making things for the kids I teach…tho in a much less expensive wool…but in the end, it is the actual knitting, itself,that soothes and relaxes and makes one want to take up the wool and knit again and again. Have fun knitting! Blessings and love to all. Jo
Julie C. Nelson, RYT (coolmoonyogaknits) said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:54 pm
I have to say that Ravelry has influenced me the most. I never would have been brave enough to try out certain techniques, etc. if I hadn’t seen all the “real people” and their “real projects” in all different sizes (as opposed to a pattern book!)
Julie
Marycile Cortez said,
August 25, 2009 @ 2:56 pm
My grandmother Boddington taught me how to crochet. She had only a few patterns and a couple of hooks, so I’ve expanded with books and free patterns on the internet. This week, my friend Teri M is going to teach me how to knit. I taught her two boys how to crochet recently. I have lots of books and patterns for knit, too. I like the look of both, and prefer patterns that use both. I really want to learn how to knit socks, slippers, and stockings. I prefer beginner patterns, so I can use fancy yarns. I like regular yarn for intermediate patterns.
Sara P. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:07 pm
The lovely girls in my knitting group have had the biggest influence on my knitting. Even if I don’t think something turned out that great they always have compliments for me which make me feel great. Also, they encouraged me to spin. Which I love.
connie k said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:10 pm
wendy knits – all her socks!
micki said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:11 pm
My grandmother…the handspun she spins is AMAZING!
Heather said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:18 pm
My husband has been the biggest influence in my knitting. He is so supportive and is always there to give suggestions on what he likes about each piece I knit. I am a relatively new knitter and he was the person who helped me get started. He learned first and then taught me. Whenever I have a question about learning a new stitch that I am having trouble with, we work to figure it out together. I tend to be a perfectionist and at times am afraid that I will make a mistake or it won’t look right. He encourages me to try different projects regardless of whether I make a mistake or not and tells me “If you make a mistake, don’t worry, we’ll fix it together”. He has been the biggest supporter of my knitting!
Cheryl said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:19 pm
My biggest influence has been my knitting group. There is a group of five of us who get together as often as we can to knit together. We encourage each other in our knitting, have taught each other different techniques, have traveled to MSWF together. We enable each other on a regular basis. We are all different as night and day politically and personally. We have a christian, a catholic, a unitarian, an I don’t know and an athiest. We are non-judgmental, always supportive, always ready to knit or go to lunch or dinner. We share the love of knitting and of each other. We talk about being the Golden Girls, although I am the only golden one. We are a wonderful bunch of sisters, brought together by sticks and string.
Andi Gallegos said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:24 pm
My friend Emily. She can knit anything. She is a patient teacher and shares my love of great yarn!
Jenny said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:25 pm
My friend Rainy has been mine. TBH if I win this time I will split it with her, as she has shared SO MUCH with me, yarn and roving included. I am so verry lucky to have her.
Denise said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:39 pm
My influences recently are from my local knitting groups. When we have our Show and Tell portion of the day, sometimes you have to pick my chin off of the ground! What an inspiration they are!! And then their willingness to help me, the novice, is great. I can only hope to live long enough to equal some of their talent.
Erika said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:40 pm
My inspiration is my local yarn stores owner; Liz. She had inspired me to knit what I knit today. Shawls, scarves, socks, you name it. She always helped me no matter what. i give her two thumbs up!
Allison said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:42 pm
I have to say the Yarn Harlot, I had not knitted in years and I picked up one of her books and I was hooked. Then came Wendy and she led me to you and I now have tons of yarn and keep buying it! I have also made new friends and discovered more interests!
Bev said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:50 pm
My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was ten and I learned to knit soon thereafter. The women in my family have always done some kind of fiber arts, sewing,quilting whatever. Biggest influences: blogs, Ravelry, books, magazines, my knitting group, yarn store enablers
. . . .
Debbie Hallamek said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:50 pm
I’ve been influenced by many designers, Wendy Johnson is one of them – she has encouraged me to knit socks that I love. Also Iris Schrier, Barbara Walker, oh I could go on and on…. Debbie
Amy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:52 pm
My friend Betsy was the gal who re-introduced me to knitting a few years ago, although my grandmother could claim credit for originally inspiring me to learn and teaching me to knit many years ago. As for influences, Cookie A’s sock patterns inspire me to keep knitting socks, even though I hate wearing anything on my feet.
Michelle said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:55 pm
I guess my wonderful knitting group influences me, if by influence, you mean enables me when yarn buying, and dares me into submitting things to the fair and such. But I influence them right back!
Connie G. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 3:57 pm
My biggest knitting influence was my Mom. She was terrific knitter and, even now, with her being gone for over 17 years, I can bring in one of the sweaters that she made (yes, we still have them from years ago) to my knitting instructor/friend and she will use it as an example of not only her technique, but also her sense of style. I mean some of these are over 40 years old and they are loved and cherished and WORN to feel her arms around us.
The stupid thing is I didn’t learn from her and took her knitting for granted. Now I think about how she would have thought about all the beautiful yarns and what we can do with them these days. My biggest compliment came from my DH when he commented about my second sweater and said, Mom would have been please.
My second inspiration is the Yarn Harlot. What a wit and she is so right about everything.
Lynn A. said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:05 pm
I think it would be easier to name what doesn’t influence me! Life itself influences me. Every corner I turn brings a new surprise and is reflected all around me! Thank goodness!
Judith L. Paulsmeyer said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:07 pm
Elizabeth Zimmerman is my knitting guru! Her Knitting Workshop series on PBS in the 70’s taught me to be in charge of my knitting. Now I can relax and enjoy knitting, confident that I can control the end result of each project.
Judy
April said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:13 pm
The two biggest influences over my knitting have been the Yarn Harlot and Cat Bordhi since both of them have inspired me to have confidence in my knitting not be afraid to change things to work better for me.
Another major influence would be that degree in Architecture I recently acquired. It changed the way I think and look at my surroundings, specifically, the details. Architecture is in the details, even the very small ones, and knitting is too.
Donna said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:14 pm
I think the biggest is Ravelry, and all the people there, I just know that someone will be there to answer any questions and give encouragement if i need it, so i try new things, instead of saying, Oh, I probably can’t do it anyway. Then i would say the designers that turn out new and fabulious items.
Tracey Kay said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:15 pm
ravelry! it has allowed me to find on-line and in-person knitting friends that motivate and amaze me. i’ve also been able to discover indy designers and dyers that i would never have know about otherwise.
Tracey
Amy said,
August 25, 2009 @ 4:19 pm
My mom is the greatest influence in terms of getting me started in all creative aspects. Now my kids are the ones I knit for, so they are a big influence on what I knit. But the internet as a whole has